Name: Josh
Scripture: Leviticus 24
10Now the son of an Israelite mother and an Egyptian father went out among the Israelites, and a fight broke out in the camp between him and an Israelite. 11The son of the Israelite woman blasphemed the Name with a curse; so they brought him to Moses...13Then the LORD said to Moses: 14"Take the blasphemer outside the camp. All those who heard him are to lay their hands on his head, and the entire assembly is to stone him. 15Say to the Israelites: 'If anyone curses his God, he will be held responsible; 16anyone who blasphemes the name of the LORD must be put to death. The entire assembly must stone him. Whether an alien or native-born, when he blasphemes the Name, he must be put to death.
OAP: Being stoned to death sounds slightly unpleasant. I imagine that everyone throwing would miss a lot cause there would be so many people there spread around you, and it would probably take a long time before you actually died. And multiple times God says that the entire assembly, everyone in the camp, must take part. So even little kids and women and old people would be there to help kill you, and in this way judgment, in the form of stones, would fall on you from the whole village. Worst of all just imagine seeing all of the people you know, your friends and family, acquaintances, everyone you know standing before you about to end your life. Not fun. Anyways that was off on a tangent, so i digress. This was the punishment for someone cursing God's name back then. I think of how how many times in a day i hear someone curse or use God's name in vain at school, or even how many times i let it slip out on accident. I am so thankful Jesus has already taken atonement for my sins, already been publicly humiliated and tortured, already paid with his life, that when i slip up, im not killed.
Prayer: Jesus your sacrifice for us is so much more than a necklace with you on a cross can ever capture. Thank you for giving what i never could give
Friday, February 29
Thursday, February 28
"Don't d" "I know what I'm doing, I'm a Christain...DOH!"
Name: Chad
Scripture: Acts 5:12-42
"We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree"
...
"When they heard this they were enraged and wanted to kill them. But a pharisee in the council name Gamaliel stood up and gave orders to put the men outside for a little while"
paraphrase = Be careful what you do with these men. Remember all these men who had followers that just kinda died out. [direct quote continued below]
"If this plan or this undertaking is of man it will fail; but if it is of God you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!"
OAP: I really enjoy this. Sometimes when I read other peoples blogs I skim the scripture and go right the OAP, I highly recommend looking at this scripture. Kristen on the Ercu blog said this was her favorite Pharisee and I have to agree.
Jesus, raised from the dead, big event, people know it, people care and follow his friends. Let me repeat, raised from the dead. First reaction to his followers...Lets kill them. Then Gamaliel gets up "Hey guys, this might not be the best idea....Let's think this one through" Then he plays it perfectly, making the other Pharisees actually trust God, is this guy great or what?
God, Pharisee just sounds bad. When I think I am doing your will don't let me get so caught up in it that I refuse to reevaluate just because the person warning me isn't a Christian. Thanks for reminding me that sometimes the best advice comes from strange places (in this case the church....)
Scripture: Acts 5:12-42
"We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree"
...
"When they heard this they were enraged and wanted to kill them. But a pharisee in the council name Gamaliel stood up and gave orders to put the men outside for a little while"
paraphrase = Be careful what you do with these men. Remember all these men who had followers that just kinda died out. [direct quote continued below]
"If this plan or this undertaking is of man it will fail; but if it is of God you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!"
OAP: I really enjoy this. Sometimes when I read other peoples blogs I skim the scripture and go right the OAP, I highly recommend looking at this scripture. Kristen on the Ercu blog said this was her favorite Pharisee and I have to agree.
Jesus, raised from the dead, big event, people know it, people care and follow his friends. Let me repeat, raised from the dead. First reaction to his followers...Lets kill them. Then Gamaliel gets up "Hey guys, this might not be the best idea....Let's think this one through" Then he plays it perfectly, making the other Pharisees actually trust God, is this guy great or what?
God, Pharisee just sounds bad. When I think I am doing your will don't let me get so caught up in it that I refuse to reevaluate just because the person warning me isn't a Christian. Thanks for reminding me that sometimes the best advice comes from strange places (in this case the church....)
the energizer bunny.... on steroids
Name: Dillon
Scripture: acts 5: 17-42 today I'm kind of doing my soap on the whole chapter and it was too long to type out, so I'll just paraphrase it. basically in this chapter the apostles were healing people and preaching in the streets and were arrested and put in jail. an angel came and broke them out of jail and told them to go back and start preaching again. so they did. the high priest found them the next day preaching in the streets again. so they arrested the apostles again. they brought the apostles to the council. the council told them to never again speak in the name of Jesus and let them go. but they still continued to preach the message of Jesus
OAP: I find it amazing that the apostles kept on preaching the name of Jesus even thought the high priest kept telling them not to. they were even sent to jail because of it, but they broke out and continued preaching. this is why i titled this post "the energizer bunny.... on steroids". it seems like no matter how many times the authority told them to stop preaching, they kept on doing it. I need to remember to be an "energizer bunny" for God just like the apostles. They just kept going and going and going...
God, help me to be an "energizer bunny" for you
Scripture: acts 5: 17-42 today I'm kind of doing my soap on the whole chapter and it was too long to type out, so I'll just paraphrase it. basically in this chapter the apostles were healing people and preaching in the streets and were arrested and put in jail. an angel came and broke them out of jail and told them to go back and start preaching again. so they did. the high priest found them the next day preaching in the streets again. so they arrested the apostles again. they brought the apostles to the council. the council told them to never again speak in the name of Jesus and let them go. but they still continued to preach the message of Jesus
OAP: I find it amazing that the apostles kept on preaching the name of Jesus even thought the high priest kept telling them not to. they were even sent to jail because of it, but they broke out and continued preaching. this is why i titled this post "the energizer bunny.... on steroids". it seems like no matter how many times the authority told them to stop preaching, they kept on doing it. I need to remember to be an "energizer bunny" for God just like the apostles. They just kept going and going and going...
God, help me to be an "energizer bunny" for you
It keeps going and going and going...
Name: Nate
Scripture: Acts 5:38 - 39
OAP: Dust to Dust. Everything fades with time. Nations rise and fall. Babylon, Rome, Ottoman Empire. Even the USA is just over 200 years old. Religions have passed away too. The Gods of the ancient Greeks and Romans are seen as no more than ancient weather balloons today, telling the changing of the seasons.
Scripture: Acts 5:38 - 39
"And so in the present case, I say to you, stay away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or action should be of men, it will be overthrown; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God."
OAP: Dust to Dust. Everything fades with time. Nations rise and fall. Babylon, Rome, Ottoman Empire. Even the USA is just over 200 years old. Religions have passed away too. The Gods of the ancient Greeks and Romans are seen as no more than ancient weather balloons today, telling the changing of the seasons.
I've been into this movie i rented this weekend. I've watched it twice. I do not endorse for those under 17. It's called Sunshine, and its about the sun dying and these people that travel through space to re-ignite the sun. Otherwise, the entire human race will pass away. There is some interesting religious symbolism in it and discussion of whether or not man should control his own destiny or if the sun dying is a sign that God is wiping man from existence. There is even this one point of dialogue about being the last man alone with God (like Adam being the first)...that got me thinking, but I digress...
Needless to say, its added to my thoughts about the temporalness of things. Gamaliel, this religious leader cited examples and told his fellow priests that if this Christianity/Jesus thing was a hoax, it would pass away just like the other fads, leaders, etc.
Well...Here we are...Over 2000 years later. Based on this blog, I don't think God's Word has lost much relevance to reality. The name and influence of Jesus on history is undeniable. We are a part of this legacy. There is a lot of geneology in the bible, and now we get to step in and join the crowd. We are the Children of God, adopted via Jesus.
It boggles my mind. Jesus Christ has stood the test of time. We should celebrate this :)
Dear Lord, thank you for transcending time. Thank you for being eternal. Thank you for becoming a temporal man, and after 33 years, leaving an eternal mark on this planet. These words will pass away, but You will remain. I find great comfort and blessing in this.
The Loners are Loved!
Name: Ian
Scripture: Acts 5:41-42 "The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ."
Acts 5:13 "No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people."
OAP: The apostles Healed all the sick, got arrested, told all the people about Jesus. Afterwards, some dude, a pharisee, stands up to stop them from being killed, and they are released. They almost die dong what the Lord tells them to do, but what i love the most is that they rejoice because they suffered for the Name. They are happy that they did what the Lord guided them to do and were persecuted for it. This is one of the moments when you admire the Apostles, just forget about peter losing faith while he was walking on water, Judas betraying Jesus, and etc.
Dear Lord,
I love how the apostles were so happy to do what You told them to do and get persecuted for it and stay strong. Please Lord give me the strength, so that i will be able to do this, when and if You call me to do something that will get me in trouble with Law.
Side Point: The apostles are loners because no one dares to join them, yet they are Loved because they are highly regarded and have the respect of others. So I think I might be more a loner now, when i want to be more loved.
Scripture: Acts 5:41-42 "The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ."
Acts 5:13 "No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people."
OAP: The apostles Healed all the sick, got arrested, told all the people about Jesus. Afterwards, some dude, a pharisee, stands up to stop them from being killed, and they are released. They almost die dong what the Lord tells them to do, but what i love the most is that they rejoice because they suffered for the Name. They are happy that they did what the Lord guided them to do and were persecuted for it. This is one of the moments when you admire the Apostles, just forget about peter losing faith while he was walking on water, Judas betraying Jesus, and etc.
Dear Lord,
I love how the apostles were so happy to do what You told them to do and get persecuted for it and stay strong. Please Lord give me the strength, so that i will be able to do this, when and if You call me to do something that will get me in trouble with Law.
Side Point: The apostles are loners because no one dares to join them, yet they are Loved because they are highly regarded and have the respect of others. So I think I might be more a loner now, when i want to be more loved.
Restless
Name: Josh
Scripture: Leviticus 23
3"Work six days. The seventh day is a Sabbath, a day of total and complete rest, a sacred assembly. Don't do any work. Wherever you live, it is a Sabbath to God." - Leviticus 23:3
OAP: I'm on the brink of exhaustion as i type this. I don't mean to complain im just honestly tired of running on 5 or fewer hours of sleep. 3 AP classes, football all week, tutoring, and church and chores and more work on the weekend is starting to take its toll, and throw in my terrible time management and i just make it worse. I imagine if i was able to plan out my week and leave sunday free as a true Sabbath i would feel much more rested and get more out of church. I want that.
Prayer: Lord you have been a loving shepherd, no doubt. You have led me through many dark valleys and comforted me with your ever present staff and rod, but please lead me back to some green pastures or quiet waters or something; restore my soul.
Scripture: Leviticus 23
3"Work six days. The seventh day is a Sabbath, a day of total and complete rest, a sacred assembly. Don't do any work. Wherever you live, it is a Sabbath to God." - Leviticus 23:3
OAP: I'm on the brink of exhaustion as i type this. I don't mean to complain im just honestly tired of running on 5 or fewer hours of sleep. 3 AP classes, football all week, tutoring, and church and chores and more work on the weekend is starting to take its toll, and throw in my terrible time management and i just make it worse. I imagine if i was able to plan out my week and leave sunday free as a true Sabbath i would feel much more rested and get more out of church. I want that.
Prayer: Lord you have been a loving shepherd, no doubt. You have led me through many dark valleys and comforted me with your ever present staff and rod, but please lead me back to some green pastures or quiet waters or something; restore my soul.
Wednesday, February 27
Oh...We need the Falkland Islands....Strategic sheep purposes
Name: Chad
Scripture: Acts 4:23-5:11
Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. 2With his wife's full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet.
3Then Peter said, "Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? 4Didn't it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn't the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied to men but to God."
5When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened. 6Then the young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him.
7About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8Peter asked her, "Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?" "Yes," she said, "that is the price."
9Peter said to her, "How could you agree to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also."
10At that moment she fell down at his feet and died. Then the young men came in and, finding her dead, carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.
OAP: How about some context, this couple just went and sold everything they own, then they take it and give a huge chunk to the church. Smitten. Now there are a great many people who are giving nothing to God are perfectly healthy. MLK wrote that it was not the KKK that most enraged him, but rather the white moderate, those who sympathize but take no action, a peace of the absence of tension. It has given me great comfort at times that God asks for baby steps, I have no doubt that Ananias gave more of his material wealth than I ever have, yet I still live. The act of giving seems almost negligible in this situation, it is about not trying to lie to God. If I don't sell my possessions, fine, but to act like I have seems to piss God off. To try to deceive God, to look as if I am fasting or emphasize it, rather than let it remain personal, to make a grand show of giving yet not give, to speak about what I am doing in my walk with God and exaggerate, to promise 100% and give 99% (intentionally 99, not attempting that is) all of these are capital offenses.
God, as I journey with you I am thankful for this reminder. Let me be honest with where I am at, and where I expect to go, what I am doing to get there, how you fit into that. Let me not only be honest with you, but reveal me to myself. Please don't allow me to deceive myself and call me on it if (when) I do.
Scripture: Acts 4:23-5:11
Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. 2With his wife's full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet.
3Then Peter said, "Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? 4Didn't it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn't the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied to men but to God."
5When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened. 6Then the young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him.
7About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8Peter asked her, "Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?" "Yes," she said, "that is the price."
9Peter said to her, "How could you agree to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also."
10At that moment she fell down at his feet and died. Then the young men came in and, finding her dead, carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.
OAP: How about some context, this couple just went and sold everything they own, then they take it and give a huge chunk to the church. Smitten. Now there are a great many people who are giving nothing to God are perfectly healthy. MLK wrote that it was not the KKK that most enraged him, but rather the white moderate, those who sympathize but take no action, a peace of the absence of tension. It has given me great comfort at times that God asks for baby steps, I have no doubt that Ananias gave more of his material wealth than I ever have, yet I still live. The act of giving seems almost negligible in this situation, it is about not trying to lie to God. If I don't sell my possessions, fine, but to act like I have seems to piss God off. To try to deceive God, to look as if I am fasting or emphasize it, rather than let it remain personal, to make a grand show of giving yet not give, to speak about what I am doing in my walk with God and exaggerate, to promise 100% and give 99% (intentionally 99, not attempting that is) all of these are capital offenses.
God, as I journey with you I am thankful for this reminder. Let me be honest with where I am at, and where I expect to go, what I am doing to get there, how you fit into that. Let me not only be honest with you, but reveal me to myself. Please don't allow me to deceive myself and call me on it if (when) I do.
Name: Dillon
Scripture: Leviticus 19:33-34
do not exploit the foreigners that live in your land. They should be treated like everyone else, and you must love them the way you love yourself. Remember that you were once foreigners in the land of Egypt. I, the Lord, am your God
OAP: As I read this verse I thought about the "foreigners" that i come across in my life. This verse is telling us to treat foreigners as one of our own, even tough we may not want to. As I go about my day, I need to remember to love the foreigners that I come across. The random people I come across throughout my day that I need to love even if maybe it's hard for me to them them because their "foreigners" to me.
God, help me to accept the foreigners in my life
Scripture: Leviticus 19:33-34
do not exploit the foreigners that live in your land. They should be treated like everyone else, and you must love them the way you love yourself. Remember that you were once foreigners in the land of Egypt. I, the Lord, am your God
OAP: As I read this verse I thought about the "foreigners" that i come across in my life. This verse is telling us to treat foreigners as one of our own, even tough we may not want to. As I go about my day, I need to remember to love the foreigners that I come across. The random people I come across throughout my day that I need to love even if maybe it's hard for me to them them because their "foreigners" to me.
God, help me to accept the foreigners in my life
Submitted for your approval...
Name: Nate
Scripture: Acts 4:29-31
"'Now Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your Holy Servant Jesus.' After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the Word of God boldly."
OAP:
Thought #1: Rod Serling used to say "submitted for your approval" before the beginning of any Twilight Zone episode. It was an invitation to evaluate the scene you were about to experience. What does it mean? How does it affect you? How will you react? Is it plausible? etc. Merely offering the viewer the opportunity for them to evaluate and consider what they were about to see.
Thought #2: When I pray, I'm a man of requests. My prayers are to remove roadblocks, change others hearts, give me wisdom, insight, etc. God is my giant vending machine. Pump in prayers, get out stuff, but this prayer, this prayer is intense for me.
A. They just ask God to "consider" the threats to the church to keep them from speaking. God "submitted for your approval". The greek word actually means to "look upon or observe", not remove the threats.
B. They ask for boldness in the midst of the situation. I'm all sorts of soft when it comes to this. "I pray their ears will be open. I pray they have a receptive heart." I don't pray "God, give me boldness despite where they are at."
C. They view evangelism as total partnership. We'll do the speaking. God, You do the miracles. How cool is that!! And they attribute everything to Jesus, and His glorious victory. The power of His name...I'll talk about the power of His name another time (maybe next Tuesday). Its not just the me do something in Jesus name...God is taking part as well.
D. When the house is a rockin'...they get filled up with the Holy Spirit, and go out boldy.
Such a cool model for prayer...I need to think about it more, but that's what jumps out at me initially. And the fact that their prayer is specific. We will do this, we ask You to do this.
Jesus, consider my co-workers and my work environment. Enable and empower me to live differently and courageously for You. Both in word and deed to speak with boldness. As I live differently, I pray your Spirit will work around me and through me. Do I dare pray for miracles? Yes Lord, I pray for miracles that display the glory and power in the name of Jesus. (I don't need an earthquake...too much collateral damage), but a beautiful sunrise tomorrow would be awesome :)
Undesirable
Name: Josh
Scripture: 16-23 God spoke to Moses: "Tell Aaron, None of your descendants, in any generation to come, who has a defect of any kind may present as an offering the food of his God. That means anyone who is blind or lame, disfigured or deformed, crippled in foot or hand, hunchbacked or dwarfed, who has anything wrong with his eyes, who has running sores or damaged testicles. No descendant of Aaron the priest who has any defect is to offer gifts to God; he has a defect and so must not offer the food of his God.
OAP: I don't get this. Aren't these "inferior" people still made holy by God, aren't they still descendants of Aaron and rightfully entitled to interact with Him? Why are they cast out before the God who created them like that on purpose? And furthermore, how does one damage his testicles?
Prayer: God you have created me with blemishes and imperfections, but please, still accept my offerings.
Scripture: 16-23 God spoke to Moses: "Tell Aaron, None of your descendants, in any generation to come, who has a defect of any kind may present as an offering the food of his God. That means anyone who is blind or lame, disfigured or deformed, crippled in foot or hand, hunchbacked or dwarfed, who has anything wrong with his eyes, who has running sores or damaged testicles. No descendant of Aaron the priest who has any defect is to offer gifts to God; he has a defect and so must not offer the food of his God.
OAP: I don't get this. Aren't these "inferior" people still made holy by God, aren't they still descendants of Aaron and rightfully entitled to interact with Him? Why are they cast out before the God who created them like that on purpose? And furthermore, how does one damage his testicles?
Prayer: God you have created me with blemishes and imperfections, but please, still accept my offerings.
Tuesday, February 26
Not for the life of me
I did journal today, but I don't feel comfortable putting this one up now that this blog is known to the general public. Sorry.
Coincidence? Probably not...
Name: Josh
Scripture: Leviticus 19-20
"16'Don't spread gossip and rumors. Don't do anything that endangers your neighbor's life. I am God. 17Don't secretly hate your neighbor. If you have something against him, get it out into the open; otherwise you are an accomplice in his guilt. 18Don't seek revenge or carry a grudge against any of your people. Love your neighbor as yourself. I am God.' " Leviticus 19:16-18
OAP: It's weird. As i was reading the passage tonight a friend asked me for advice on what to do about someone who had recently spread a nasty rumor about them. And i was like wow, i have almost no context for the situation but i think i know the answer already because of verses 17+18. Apparently the advice i gave (which came straight from the bible) helped a lot too. It's cool when stuff in the bible shows up so tangibly and applies to everyday life. God is working even where we can't see him or don't recognize his fingerprints.
Prayer: Thank you God for being so relevant and for leaving a book full of the greatest advice ever given.
Scripture: Leviticus 19-20
"16'Don't spread gossip and rumors. Don't do anything that endangers your neighbor's life. I am God. 17Don't secretly hate your neighbor. If you have something against him, get it out into the open; otherwise you are an accomplice in his guilt. 18Don't seek revenge or carry a grudge against any of your people. Love your neighbor as yourself. I am God.' " Leviticus 19:16-18
OAP: It's weird. As i was reading the passage tonight a friend asked me for advice on what to do about someone who had recently spread a nasty rumor about them. And i was like wow, i have almost no context for the situation but i think i know the answer already because of verses 17+18. Apparently the advice i gave (which came straight from the bible) helped a lot too. It's cool when stuff in the bible shows up so tangibly and applies to everyday life. God is working even where we can't see him or don't recognize his fingerprints.
Prayer: Thank you God for being so relevant and for leaving a book full of the greatest advice ever given.
New Quote: "This reminds me of Bible Mystery School"-Ian
Name: Nate
Scripture:
Scripture:
#1 Leviticus 19:9 "Now when you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap to the very corners of your field, neither shall you gather the gleanings of your harvest. Nor shall you glean your vinyard, nor shall you gather the fallen fruit of your vineyard; you shall leave them for the needy and for the stranger. I am the Lord your God."
OAP: Lots of thoughts tonight...many of them not soap related, but i'll get to that.
Leviticus 19:14 "You shall not curse a deaf man, nor place a stumbling block before the blind, but you shall revere your God; I am the Lord."
OAP: Lots of thoughts tonight...many of them not soap related, but i'll get to that.
#1 I'm not very good at growing things. One time my parents got me this banana tree from biosphere 2 in Arizona. It came in a little test tube. I thought it would be so cool to grow a tree and have my own bananas. How enterprising :) Well, it turns out, as soon as I took it out of the test tube and into a pot, it died...same thing happened with the Bonzai tree I got for my birthday last year...dead in a month.
Basically, growing things for me is hard. If I were to grow something, I wonder if I would want to share it so freely. It makes me think about my work. I put in long hours, it stresses me out, I feel little gratitude. Then I get my paycheck, the "harvest" for my labor, and I'm supposed to leave some behind? But didn't I earn it? Doesn't my earning it give me the right to distribute as I see fit? Give to MY church, support THAT missionary...not some random stranger, let alone the homeless and poor...OUCH...This passage has revealed a gaping wound in my character. My veiled generosity when I give to those things I see as "deserving", when the money isn't really mine in the first place.
God, thank you for this reminder that my money is not my own. Any pride i take in my charity is completely misplaced. Soften my heart and open my eyes to the "leave behind" opportunities.
#2 This one, a little less serious. I actually started thinking about the quote at the top of this page "what if a mute person had no hands..." I felt a half second of guilt...Then I started visualizing the comical aspect of this verse...making fun of/putting down someone that can't hear. Or putting stuff in front of a blind person, mocking there shortcomings. I think of practical jokes, "Jack Ass", mental games we play, how we speak of people behind their backs...I started to chuckle a little bit at how our society has glamorized this kind of thing.
But it's not just blatant things like mocking the disabled...this verse encompasses talking over someone like you're smarter. It's talking about excluding someone because they "just don't get it" or they don't fit in. Then God says instead "REVERE ME". I had to look up revere...it means to fear, at least the hebrew word also means fear. Talk about a paradigm shift from getting a laugh and making yourself feel good to focusing on Big Brother looking over your shoulder.
We can do things pretty flippantly without considering God's anger, frustration, even pain over us ridiculing one of His creation that He loves.
#3 Now comes the random stuff:
-The code ecru blog is cool. You can tell it was developed by women because the name means something, while ours is a total guy poop joke. Also, their blogs are like twice as long, but also very meaningful and thought provoking.
-I'm taking pride in my connection group. I think they are awesome because they are asking lots of questions and struggling with what it means to be a follower of Jesus. I think we're all enrolled in Bible Mystery School (even though that isn't what Ian said). And we're all extracting the bottomless truth from this ancient, living book. Some of us are even enrolled in independent study...
-I hope this blog doesn't stop after SSBB comes out.
Jesus, I thank you for all that you are revealing to me these days. Through Your community, Your Word, and my daily challenges. I am tasting the abundant life...my life feels full, and it is because of You. Thanks for this blessing.
And to your right you will see ----->
Nifty places on the web, a quick collection of links that I think are nifty.
The real reason I put links up is for the first one, Code Ecru, I highly recommend taking a look. My personal favorite part is the names, Jen's and Kiki's are especially good, but the blog title is by far the best. The deep meaning of Ecru is worth pondering, but I won't ruin it for you, I will just give my respect to creator the of such a name.
Oh yeah, and they talk about God and the Bible and deep things that are way over all of our heads....
The real reason I put links up is for the first one, Code Ecru, I highly recommend taking a look. My personal favorite part is the names, Jen's and Kiki's are especially good, but the blog title is by far the best. The deep meaning of Ecru is worth pondering, but I won't ruin it for you, I will just give my respect to creator the of such a name.
Oh yeah, and they talk about God and the Bible and deep things that are way over all of our heads....
A time for silence
Name: Chad
Scripture: Lev 19-20; Acts 4: 1-22
"we cannot deny it"
"we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard"
OAP:
I was halfway between keying in on the way that God overflows here, or the power of the name of Jesus again. Of course they are connected, it is through proclaiming his name that people cannot deny God, that Peter cannot be silent. I don't know why this has changed, well I think I know at least partly why, but I don't like that this has changed. People do things everyday in the name of Jesus and then they are silenced, they are denied repeatedly. People tend to be just as bold today and get shot down, they get rejected, why is it that we are now restrained? Why is it that I refuse to do amazing things boldly in the name of Jesus of Nazareth? I am a place where heaven touches earth, a channel to the Most High, yet I can easily stay silent.
God, I look forward to the times when I am overwhelmed with you, when you cannot be contained in me. Please bring me back to that place again, eventually, but also let me rejoice in other times, when you whisper rather than sing. I think that I enjoy these times more.
Scripture: Lev 19-20; Acts 4: 1-22
"we cannot deny it"
"we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard"
OAP:
I was halfway between keying in on the way that God overflows here, or the power of the name of Jesus again. Of course they are connected, it is through proclaiming his name that people cannot deny God, that Peter cannot be silent. I don't know why this has changed, well I think I know at least partly why, but I don't like that this has changed. People do things everyday in the name of Jesus and then they are silenced, they are denied repeatedly. People tend to be just as bold today and get shot down, they get rejected, why is it that we are now restrained? Why is it that I refuse to do amazing things boldly in the name of Jesus of Nazareth? I am a place where heaven touches earth, a channel to the Most High, yet I can easily stay silent.
God, I look forward to the times when I am overwhelmed with you, when you cannot be contained in me. Please bring me back to that place again, eventually, but also let me rejoice in other times, when you whisper rather than sing. I think that I enjoy these times more.
Oh right, the power of Jesus....
Name: Chad
Scripture: Acts 3
In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!
OAP: I don't remember whom, but I remember hearing some talk about praying for healing. They said to go to 25 people and heal them in the name of Jesus and if none of them are supernaturaly healed then abandon Christianity, it isn't true. He said that out of everyone that he knows that has ever done this no one has gotten to 25 without a miraculaus healing. Then he put out the direct challange. The only reason not to, was that we were scared of getting to 25, that we didn't belive that God could or would act through us and heal. I didn't do this because I am scared to get to 25. I don't think that this will make much sense to anyone reading, but I needed to remind myself.
God, I am often scared I will get to 25, meet me here
Scripture: Acts 3
In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!
OAP: I don't remember whom, but I remember hearing some talk about praying for healing. They said to go to 25 people and heal them in the name of Jesus and if none of them are supernaturaly healed then abandon Christianity, it isn't true. He said that out of everyone that he knows that has ever done this no one has gotten to 25 without a miraculaus healing. Then he put out the direct challange. The only reason not to, was that we were scared of getting to 25, that we didn't belive that God could or would act through us and heal. I didn't do this because I am scared to get to 25. I don't think that this will make much sense to anyone reading, but I needed to remind myself.
God, I am often scared I will get to 25, meet me here
Monday, February 25
Do it, or else.
Name: Josh
Scripture: Leviticus 17-18
1The LORD said to Moses, 2"Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'I am the LORD your God. 3You must not do as they do in Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not do as they do in the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. Do not follow their practices. 4You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the LORD your God. 5Keep my decrees and laws, for the man who obeys them will live by them. I am the LORD. 6No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the LORD.' "
OAP: I'm not really journaling on this cause of the sexual guidelines it sets to be honest. I just love how God sneaks in "I am the Lord" every chance he gets. It's like a little reminder in the middle of a fierce commandment that basically says, "Hey, im all powerful, so just do what i say." He goes on to set a bunch of rules and boundaries for sexual relations and punishments if they are broken, but I am just constantly reminded while i read that He is the Lord. We should fear his justice and be ever thankful for his mercy, not taking for granted who He has been, who He is, who He will be. For He is the Lord. It cant be said enough! He is the Lord! Hosanna!
Prayer: You are the Lord Almighty, i am nothing. Let my words be few.
Scripture: Leviticus 17-18
1The LORD said to Moses, 2"Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'I am the LORD your God. 3You must not do as they do in Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not do as they do in the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. Do not follow their practices. 4You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the LORD your God. 5Keep my decrees and laws, for the man who obeys them will live by them. I am the LORD. 6No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the LORD.' "
OAP: I'm not really journaling on this cause of the sexual guidelines it sets to be honest. I just love how God sneaks in "I am the Lord" every chance he gets. It's like a little reminder in the middle of a fierce commandment that basically says, "Hey, im all powerful, so just do what i say." He goes on to set a bunch of rules and boundaries for sexual relations and punishments if they are broken, but I am just constantly reminded while i read that He is the Lord. We should fear his justice and be ever thankful for his mercy, not taking for granted who He has been, who He is, who He will be. For He is the Lord. It cant be said enough! He is the Lord! Hosanna!
Prayer: You are the Lord Almighty, i am nothing. Let my words be few.
The most perfect yardsale
Name: Luke
Scripture: Acts 2: 42 ->
And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and fellowship, to the breakin of bread and prayers...and all had things in common And they were selling their possesssions and belongings and distrubuting the proceeeds to all, as any had need.
OAP:
This is Church. Teaching, fellowship, prayer. Community, family. And God was adding to their number day by day. It just seems beautiful, like the vision that God gave Adam for Day7. This really stuck me as I read it, it is beautiful.
Thanks for the beauty of your creation in community. I am in awe.
Scripture: Acts 2: 42 ->
And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and fellowship, to the breakin of bread and prayers...and all had things in common And they were selling their possesssions and belongings and distrubuting the proceeeds to all, as any had need.
OAP:
This is Church. Teaching, fellowship, prayer. Community, family. And God was adding to their number day by day. It just seems beautiful, like the vision that God gave Adam for Day7. This really stuck me as I read it, it is beautiful.
Thanks for the beauty of your creation in community. I am in awe.
Sunday, February 24
Take that, Satan!
Name:Scott
Scripture:James 1:2
Scripture:James 1:2
"Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy."
OAP:
OAP:
What does this look like? This verse is in total opposition to the mindset of a human being. There are a couple of things that happen when hard times come a-knockin'. We try and blame someone for the troubles or source of unhappiness. When that doesn't work, we blame ourselves. After that, we try and play hide-and-seek with our troubles, and we try and find many different hiding spots. Society tells us that we have the right to be angry, sad, and depressed.
So what does it look like to find joy in the midst of our troubles? How can good come from bad?
I'm looking at about a month of troubles traveling at me. School. Millie. Family. Church responsibilities. SF. College. I'm going to be tempted to give up, to be angry and treat other people with disdain because of it.
Jesus, thank you for this verse. Thank you for giving me the most important piece of advice I could need, right when I need it. Please help me to keep my head up. Help me to see relationships, words, situations, through your eyes. Help me to find joy in tough situations so I may share that joy with others. Intercede go God on my behalf, Jesus, and pled my case. Satan, in the name of Jesus Christ, the risen king, I DEFY YOU! You are not allowed to interfere in my life or in any situations I encounter that may make me or someone else stumble. Do your thing, Jesus.
POWER
Name:Ian
Scripture:24But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.
OAP: Nothing can hold our God back , not even death! He is uberpowerful! He can save anyone he want and protect everybody!
Dear God, you are truly amazing, i love to be reminded of your power!
Scripture:24But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.
OAP: Nothing can hold our God back , not even death! He is uberpowerful! He can save anyone he want and protect everybody!
Dear God, you are truly amazing, i love to be reminded of your power!
Somone has a gambling problem
Name: Chad
Scripture: "And they cast lots for them and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles"
OAP: They prayed first. But still, a few days after Jesus is gone and they already resort to luck of the draw to pick out a leader of ministry? I really want to know more about the prayer, I really hope that it wasn't just the one quoted in the bible, that God knows so therefore we are going to do this and assume he is directing the lots. I can assume that this shows a devotion to God and an attempt to not let themselves get in the way, but it also seems stupid. Here God, we don't know what to do so we are going to roll the dice, and wherever they land that's who is going to get picked, we are attempting to force you to act. I really do think that this wasn't it, but I am cynical.
God let me trust you enough to give things up to you, even if it seems random. Give me the clarity to see when I need to do that and the wisdom to discern when you are speaking to me, not through chance.
Scripture: "And they cast lots for them and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles"
OAP: They prayed first. But still, a few days after Jesus is gone and they already resort to luck of the draw to pick out a leader of ministry? I really want to know more about the prayer, I really hope that it wasn't just the one quoted in the bible, that God knows so therefore we are going to do this and assume he is directing the lots. I can assume that this shows a devotion to God and an attempt to not let themselves get in the way, but it also seems stupid. Here God, we don't know what to do so we are going to roll the dice, and wherever they land that's who is going to get picked, we are attempting to force you to act. I really do think that this wasn't it, but I am cynical.
God let me trust you enough to give things up to you, even if it seems random. Give me the clarity to see when I need to do that and the wisdom to discern when you are speaking to me, not through chance.
February 23, 2008
Name:Scott
Scripture:Proverbs 23:12
"Commit yourself to instruction; listen carefully to words of knowledge."
Scripture:Proverbs 23:12
"Commit yourself to instruction; listen carefully to words of knowledge."
OAP: The title of this section of verses is "sayings of the wise." Looking over them, they seem like random wise sayings that aren't relevant to each other. Weird.
Verse 12 is a tough calling. What exactly was Solomon saying here? NLT sometimes summarizes too vaguely, and Blue Letter Bible isn't working right now. Nothing is coming to mind right now as to what it could mean, other than to study the bible.
I'm not good at studying. I'm awful at it. I do not do it for tests, or papers. Im' going to be screwed for college. And I have no more incentive to study the Bible that intensely. I guess I feel like it isn't worth my time?
Jesus, I want to know you more. Please help me to want to study the word so I can have a deeper and more full understanding of you.
A Force Majeure
Name: Josh
Scripture: Leviticus 14
33The LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 34"When you enter the land of Canaan, which I am giving you as your possession, and I put a spreading mildew in a house in that land, 35the owner of the house must go and tell the priest, 'I have seen something that looks like mildew in my house.'
OAP: So yeah, i read about all the things the priest has to do if a mildew moldy gross thing starts growing on the walls, but the only part that really made me think was verse 34. The fact that God says he would put the mildew there. I don't know why this stuck out to me to be honest. It's just weird for me to think that God would be intentionally putting a mold in the wall or something, it seems like nature would take care of that by itself. Then i thought about how God also chooses who wins or loses bets, which babies that are born will come out with defects or medical issues, things that are just odds, unpredictable and natural. But no, God intentionally plans it all. i don't like to think of god as being the just punisher or the almighty smiter even though i know thats part of his personality. i really don't. im so tired and confused and feel so guilty right now i cant really think straight but i fear god so much right now.
Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, son of David, have mercy on me, a sinner.
Scripture: Leviticus 14
33The LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 34"When you enter the land of Canaan, which I am giving you as your possession, and I put a spreading mildew in a house in that land, 35the owner of the house must go and tell the priest, 'I have seen something that looks like mildew in my house.'
OAP: So yeah, i read about all the things the priest has to do if a mildew moldy gross thing starts growing on the walls, but the only part that really made me think was verse 34. The fact that God says he would put the mildew there. I don't know why this stuck out to me to be honest. It's just weird for me to think that God would be intentionally putting a mold in the wall or something, it seems like nature would take care of that by itself. Then i thought about how God also chooses who wins or loses bets, which babies that are born will come out with defects or medical issues, things that are just odds, unpredictable and natural. But no, God intentionally plans it all. i don't like to think of god as being the just punisher or the almighty smiter even though i know thats part of his personality. i really don't. im so tired and confused and feel so guilty right now i cant really think straight but i fear god so much right now.
Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, son of David, have mercy on me, a sinner.
Saturday, February 23
So...I love you cause you hate me?!?
Name: Eric
Scripture: Luke 6:27-31 ~~~~~~~~~~(27)“But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, (28) bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. (29) To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. (30) Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. (31) And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.
OAP: First of all I'm falling asleep as I am writing this.........I've been having a very very very very very very very hard time loving my enemies. I think of the worst possible things on those who annoy me. It's one of the hardest things for me; to respect those who don't respect me; to love those who hate me!!! People annoy me sooooooo easily. People easily anger me... I feel like I havent been very giving lately... Not respectful or loving. I need to stop holding grudges. I need to be way more accepting.
Lord I pray that you will help me to respect my enemies and love them. I hope I can be more accepting and pacient to my neighbors. I need to not be stressed with whats all going on. I need to slow down and think. I pray I can give to those who take from me. I pray to love my enemies.
Scripture: Luke 6:27-31 ~~~~~~~~~~(27)“But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, (28) bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. (29) To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. (30) Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. (31) And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.
OAP: First of all I'm falling asleep as I am writing this.........I've been having a very very very very very very very hard time loving my enemies. I think of the worst possible things on those who annoy me. It's one of the hardest things for me; to respect those who don't respect me; to love those who hate me!!! People annoy me sooooooo easily. People easily anger me... I feel like I havent been very giving lately... Not respectful or loving. I need to stop holding grudges. I need to be way more accepting.
Lord I pray that you will help me to respect my enemies and love them. I hope I can be more accepting and pacient to my neighbors. I need to not be stressed with whats all going on. I need to slow down and think. I pray I can give to those who take from me. I pray to love my enemies.
Why did I ask for this?
Name: Chad
Scripture:
No specific scripture, I am just going to lay out what I have been talking with God about.
OAP: It's nearly 4 am, I have been having a truly bad night since about midnight. Before midnight was hot tub Friday, which is always great, although I didn't hot tub tonight. If anyone has really gotten me to talk about myself in the past week or so (which would have been really easy this week because I needed to talk, and I did) I would have talked about my apathy, not really caring about anything. Doing life, and doing it well, but overall I don't think I would miss much that could be taken away from me. I have no passion for anything really, I love living and am immensely enjoying life, but all in all it doesn't matter to me. Something hit me over the past few days and I cared about it, I don't really know why I cared, it still doesn't make sense to me, but I cared. Now I remember why I didn't care before, it often hurts, physical pain. I don't like it, it makes me jaded, it makes me not sleep for four hours, it makes me selfish, it sucks. I really hate that it makes me selfish, I may be arrogant but a perk of apathy is that I was allowed to be much more selfless. I prayed to care about something, now I do, I don't want to. I think I am worse off because of it.
I feel that if I give this completely to you God then things will go back to how they were before. I don't want that. This doesn't fit the sitting among my weeds but there are parallels. I think that you want me to dwell here for a while, maybe longer. I give that choice fully to you, if you want this it is yours, but if you want me to live in it then I will bear it. God it hurts.
Scripture:
No specific scripture, I am just going to lay out what I have been talking with God about.
OAP: It's nearly 4 am, I have been having a truly bad night since about midnight. Before midnight was hot tub Friday, which is always great, although I didn't hot tub tonight. If anyone has really gotten me to talk about myself in the past week or so (which would have been really easy this week because I needed to talk, and I did) I would have talked about my apathy, not really caring about anything. Doing life, and doing it well, but overall I don't think I would miss much that could be taken away from me. I have no passion for anything really, I love living and am immensely enjoying life, but all in all it doesn't matter to me. Something hit me over the past few days and I cared about it, I don't really know why I cared, it still doesn't make sense to me, but I cared. Now I remember why I didn't care before, it often hurts, physical pain. I don't like it, it makes me jaded, it makes me not sleep for four hours, it makes me selfish, it sucks. I really hate that it makes me selfish, I may be arrogant but a perk of apathy is that I was allowed to be much more selfless. I prayed to care about something, now I do, I don't want to. I think I am worse off because of it.
I feel that if I give this completely to you God then things will go back to how they were before. I don't want that. This doesn't fit the sitting among my weeds but there are parallels. I think that you want me to dwell here for a while, maybe longer. I give that choice fully to you, if you want this it is yours, but if you want me to live in it then I will bear it. God it hurts.
Friday, February 22
God's promises
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 24: 36-53
OAP: This is Jesus talking to us as if we were five. Because obviously we do not understand, or they were in shock. God promises all this stuff, all of these prophesies and commandments with a reason. Yet they/we are shocked when he actualy comes through. A few days ago I wrote about how Jesus said prophsies that obviously have not come true. Yet in this passage he delivers, he lets them touch him and guides them through the whole process of verifying he is real. Eating not in fellowship but rather to prove a point. And then explains to them like children that it is exactly like he said it was going to be, surprise. God says that one day every knee will bow, I don't think I actuatly expect it to, its less of a litereral idea for me, but I can just picture Jesus talking to me like the disciples...Look at you, touch them on their knees, hear them cry out, I said that they would do this....
God, it seems to me like a constant worry that pops up during this time is that I will not reconize or belive you when you come. Use this time so that I can more intemently know your voice and your spirit. Talk to me.
Scripture: Luke 24: 36-53
OAP: This is Jesus talking to us as if we were five. Because obviously we do not understand, or they were in shock. God promises all this stuff, all of these prophesies and commandments with a reason. Yet they/we are shocked when he actualy comes through. A few days ago I wrote about how Jesus said prophsies that obviously have not come true. Yet in this passage he delivers, he lets them touch him and guides them through the whole process of verifying he is real. Eating not in fellowship but rather to prove a point. And then explains to them like children that it is exactly like he said it was going to be, surprise. God says that one day every knee will bow, I don't think I actuatly expect it to, its less of a litereral idea for me, but I can just picture Jesus talking to me like the disciples...Look at you, touch them on their knees, hear them cry out, I said that they would do this....
God, it seems to me like a constant worry that pops up during this time is that I will not reconize or belive you when you come. Use this time so that I can more intemently know your voice and your spirit. Talk to me.
Thursday, February 21
Jesus Ate.
Name: Josh
Scripture: Luke 24:36-54
41Still they stood there in disbelief, filled with joy and wonder. Then he asked them,“Do you have anything here to eat?” 42They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43and he ate it as they watched.
OAP: They didn't believe when they saw the empty tomb. Or when the women told of glowing angels declaring His victory. Or when he appeared to Simon or the two men on the road. Or when he showed up. Or when he said, "Hey guys, it's me, not a ghost." These things are new, unbelievable, amazing! Yet the disciples can't comprehend it, they're incredulous that Jesus could be working in these ways. So he eats some fish and talks about the scriptures and then they get it! Which is funny because that's what Jesus did in the good old days with them. That's what they were used to, and he uses it to "open their minds" so they can understand what's going on, what His plan is.
Prayer: God i love that you show up in new ways all the time, that you reveal pieces of yourself i didn't think existed. If i cant believe or understand these things, please teach me, enlighten me, give me clarity using what i can relate to and grasp.
Scripture: Luke 24:36-54
41Still they stood there in disbelief, filled with joy and wonder. Then he asked them,
OAP: They didn't believe when they saw the empty tomb. Or when the women told of glowing angels declaring His victory. Or when he appeared to Simon or the two men on the road. Or when he showed up. Or when he said, "Hey guys, it's me, not a ghost." These things are new, unbelievable, amazing! Yet the disciples can't comprehend it, they're incredulous that Jesus could be working in these ways. So he eats some fish and talks about the scriptures and then they get it! Which is funny because that's what Jesus did in the good old days with them. That's what they were used to, and he uses it to "open their minds" so they can understand what's going on, what His plan is.
Prayer: God i love that you show up in new ways all the time, that you reveal pieces of yourself i didn't think existed. If i cant believe or understand these things, please teach me, enlighten me, give me clarity using what i can relate to and grasp.
taking a chill pill
Name: Dillon
Scripture: Scripture:Psalm 23:2 "He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams."
OAP:
So I stole todays verse from scott cuz i'm too lazy to go get my bible. When I picture this the one word that usualy comes to my head is "boring". If you know me well enugh you probably know I am a pretty crazy person that always wants to be on the go doing something fun or crazy. so when I read this verse I don't really want to pay much attention to it because the thought of being peacful sounds kinda boring to me. Maybe God is trying to tell me that i need to take a break every once in a while and just rest and be with him.
God, help me to take breaks sometimes to rest in green meadows and walk beside peacful streams and listen to you.
Scripture: Scripture:Psalm 23:2 "He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams."
OAP:
So I stole todays verse from scott cuz i'm too lazy to go get my bible. When I picture this the one word that usualy comes to my head is "boring". If you know me well enugh you probably know I am a pretty crazy person that always wants to be on the go doing something fun or crazy. so when I read this verse I don't really want to pay much attention to it because the thought of being peacful sounds kinda boring to me. Maybe God is trying to tell me that i need to take a break every once in a while and just rest and be with him.
God, help me to take breaks sometimes to rest in green meadows and walk beside peacful streams and listen to you.
There are pretty weird names in the Bible...
Name: Eric
Scripture: Daniel 3:16-18
(16)Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. (17)If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we searve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. (18) but if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
OAP: This is basically saying that whatever happens to them, they will not worship the king or any idols, but only our God. They will only listen to God no matter what king Nebuchajfhghjfikdutrhjfmnfcjghngtmdjgfthjyj or what any other kings say. There are so many times where I am going along in life where I'm not focusing on God...sometimes I play games too much...I stress on homework and school too much...etc.etc.etc...and I don't even pay attention to what God is telling me, and im not even asking him to help me get rid of my stress and work things out in an easier way. I definetly need to take some time to stop, read some scripture, and pray. Another thing is that in the scripture they put their lives in God's hands. They trust God with their lives. I always think ...How do you trust someone with your life?!?...It's a very hard thing to do.
Lord, please help me find time to stop and read your word. Also please help me find that I can trust you with my life. I feel like I'm spending too much time doing other things than focusing on you and talking to you.
Scripture: Daniel 3:16-18
(16)Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. (17)If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we searve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. (18) but if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
OAP: This is basically saying that whatever happens to them, they will not worship the king or any idols, but only our God. They will only listen to God no matter what king Nebuchajfhghjfikdutrhjfmnfcjghngtmdjgfthjyj or what any other kings say. There are so many times where I am going along in life where I'm not focusing on God...sometimes I play games too much...I stress on homework and school too much...etc.etc.etc...and I don't even pay attention to what God is telling me, and im not even asking him to help me get rid of my stress and work things out in an easier way. I definetly need to take some time to stop, read some scripture, and pray. Another thing is that in the scripture they put their lives in God's hands. They trust God with their lives. I always think ...How do you trust someone with your life?!?...It's a very hard thing to do.
Lord, please help me find time to stop and read your word. Also please help me find that I can trust you with my life. I feel like I'm spending too much time doing other things than focusing on you and talking to you.
Wednesday, February 20
Grassy Meadows
Name: Scott
Scripture:Psalm 23:2 "He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams."
Scripture:Psalm 23:2 "He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams."
OAP: Dave was a sav. If there was a definition for the word 'savage', it would be King David. I am always amazed by the honesty and the real-ness that this guy shared with God. He held nothing back. I always like reading his work.
God has my best interest at heart. He wants me to succeed in all that I do, and he doesn't like to see me distressed. He 'lets me rest in green meadows' to remind me in the hard times, 'remember when?' I thought of how my week off now seems like a green meadow or peaceful stream. A time of relaxation and a time to enjoy life. I know that come Monday, I will be thrust back into harsh desert land, but no pain, no gain I suppose?
God, thank you for giving me breaks. Help me, while enjoying this time off, to be proactive in our relationship and seek you more.
Jesus kinda lied
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 24ish
He acted as though He were going farther.
OAP: This doesn't sit right with me. Acted as though. I looked it up, the greek word is prospoieō, it means to pretend. I don't like that Jesus is pretending. In my mind it is like him having a little joke, or maybe acting in such away to have them do something. It doesn't seem approprtiate considerig the circumsances and almost beneath God to pretend. Like a white lie.
I don't get it. Clarify this for me God. I see you as constant, not decitful. Help me understand
Scripture: Luke 24ish
He acted as though He were going farther.
OAP: This doesn't sit right with me. Acted as though. I looked it up, the greek word is prospoieō, it means to pretend. I don't like that Jesus is pretending. In my mind it is like him having a little joke, or maybe acting in such away to have them do something. It doesn't seem approprtiate considerig the circumsances and almost beneath God to pretend. Like a white lie.
I don't get it. Clarify this for me God. I see you as constant, not decitful. Help me understand
God's got a rep to maintain
Name: Nate
Scripture: Psalm 23:3
Scripture: Psalm 23:3
"He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name sake."
OAP: God is consistent.
What if God's character wasn't? What if we had to be concerned that one minute God had good intentions for us, and the next He wanted to wipe us from the face of the earth? So much uncertainty. Many ancient religions (and modern ones too) had this view that you have to appease God or a higher being. But scripture speaks constantly of God's consistent character. Though His actions or influence may be misunderstood, we can trust that his intentions are in our best interests, according to His will. Not only that, he has a desire to be consistent, and communicate that consistency to us.
God, help me to trust in your consistency despite circumstances. Open my eyes to see Your movement in my life despite when things don't seem to be going my way, or I feel like I just can't get ahead.
So i dont have a cool video to post but...
Name: Josh
Scripture: Luke 24:13-35
15As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; 16but they were kept from recognizing him. 17He asked them, "What are you discussing together as you walk along?" They stood still, their faces downcast. 18One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, "Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?" 19"What things?" he asked.
OAP: Immediate reaction: Oh silly Jesus. Why are you asking them what happened? You know better than anyone...oh wait you want to teach them something.
Reflection: I see myself in the position of the despondent believers, returning home with their hopes crushed. They waited the 3 days and since things didn't play out the way they thought it would, they gave up and left. Even though they heard from the women of the shiny angels and from Peter that the tomb was empty, it just wasn't what they were hoping for, Jesus wasn't walking around in the flesh. Oh-but wait, right now he is walking around, even talking with them! How ironic that Jesus wouldn't let them recognize Him until he broke the bread again, reminding them of how he broke his body for them, and retaught them the words of the old prophets.
Prayer: Lord, make my heart burn within me by reminding me that my expectations and ambitions don't have to be met. Do your thing God, if im interpreting your plan in the wrong way, rebuke and correct me.
Scripture: Luke 24:13-35
15As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; 16but they were kept from recognizing him. 17He asked them, "What are you discussing together as you walk along?" They stood still, their faces downcast. 18One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, "Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?" 19"What things?" he asked.
OAP: Immediate reaction: Oh silly Jesus. Why are you asking them what happened? You know better than anyone...oh wait you want to teach them something.
Reflection: I see myself in the position of the despondent believers, returning home with their hopes crushed. They waited the 3 days and since things didn't play out the way they thought it would, they gave up and left. Even though they heard from the women of the shiny angels and from Peter that the tomb was empty, it just wasn't what they were hoping for, Jesus wasn't walking around in the flesh. Oh-but wait, right now he is walking around, even talking with them! How ironic that Jesus wouldn't let them recognize Him until he broke the bread again, reminding them of how he broke his body for them, and retaught them the words of the old prophets.
Prayer: Lord, make my heart burn within me by reminding me that my expectations and ambitions don't have to be met. Do your thing God, if im interpreting your plan in the wrong way, rebuke and correct me.
Tuesday, February 19
"here's my heart....... it's yours
Name: Dillon
Scripture:
Jesus called with a loud voice "Father into your hands i commit my spirit
OAP:
this makes me realize that i need to commit myself to God. i have not given God my whole heart the way Jesus did when he was on the cross about to die. this week as i go about my life i need to remember to give myself to God in everything i do
Scripture:
Jesus called with a loud voice "Father into your hands i commit my spirit
OAP:
this makes me realize that i need to commit myself to God. i have not given God my whole heart the way Jesus did when he was on the cross about to die. this week as i go about my life i need to remember to give myself to God in everything i do
No cool Keats references this time
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 23:26-43
One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying "are you not the crhist? ave yourself and us!" but the other rebuked him saying, do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation, and we indeed justly for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong" And he said " Jesus remember me when you come into your kingdom" and he said to him " truly I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise"
OAP: This is a hard passage solely from a social justice standpoint. It is always taught that God come to relive the oppressed of their suffering and to save his people. This would seem to have a huge here and now effect yet the what is shown on the cross is not a scene of relief of suffering but rather of a future glory in heaven. This is hard for me, I like tangible. actually it is not hard for me, I have very little suffering personally, it is hard from me to morally comprehend in relation to those who are oppressed. Shouldn't Jesus deliver them rather than just promise them something in the future. Don't get me wrong I am all for this future paradise, it just doesn't quite fit with the ideas we read about it exodus. I don't want to write this off as the people on the crosses deserved it, by the viewpoint of the law.
I always hear that your kingdom is here and now, that you will make a difference in the life of people on the spot and change their lives. Why only sometimes? What am I supposed to do with that?
Scripture: Luke 23:26-43
One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying "are you not the crhist? ave yourself and us!" but the other rebuked him saying, do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation, and we indeed justly for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong" And he said " Jesus remember me when you come into your kingdom" and he said to him " truly I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise"
OAP: This is a hard passage solely from a social justice standpoint. It is always taught that God come to relive the oppressed of their suffering and to save his people. This would seem to have a huge here and now effect yet the what is shown on the cross is not a scene of relief of suffering but rather of a future glory in heaven. This is hard for me, I like tangible. actually it is not hard for me, I have very little suffering personally, it is hard from me to morally comprehend in relation to those who are oppressed. Shouldn't Jesus deliver them rather than just promise them something in the future. Don't get me wrong I am all for this future paradise, it just doesn't quite fit with the ideas we read about it exodus. I don't want to write this off as the people on the crosses deserved it, by the viewpoint of the law.
I always hear that your kingdom is here and now, that you will make a difference in the life of people on the spot and change their lives. Why only sometimes? What am I supposed to do with that?
Monday, February 18
I have to do WHAT?
Name:Scott
Scripture: Leviticus 1-3
OAP: These chapters are very inconspicuous. At first glance, t hey are boring and tedious and I would skip over them. At closer inspection, though, they contain lots of neat ideas.
Scripture: Leviticus 1-3
OAP: These chapters are very inconspicuous. At first glance, t hey are boring and tedious and I would skip over them. At closer inspection, though, they contain lots of neat ideas.
They are about how to present burnt and grain offerings to God in the Tabernacle. They go through extensive detail about the offering procedure and what to do with an animal after it has been slaughtered and where to put its insides and all that kind of stuff.
In the midst of it, this verse caught my eye: "Season all your grain offerings with salt to remind you of God's eternal covenant." -Lev. 2: 13. Reading this, I thought of one reason why the offerings were so important, why they needed to be done precisely. They were a reminder to the Israelites of what God had done for them coming out of Egypt, and of the land he had promised them, and the eternal life that he promised them.
The Israelites were forgetful people, always needing constant reminding. They, who witnessed first hand the parting of the freakin' Red Sea, and who were guided by a cloud and pillar of fire, forgot constantly how God cares for them and what he is capable of. I don't get any of those things to remind me of God, so one could guess how much more forgetful I am. I kind of wish that I am required to do tedious things like kill animals and place their blood on certain parts of my wall or desk, so that I would always remember God.
God, help me to be reminded of you constantly, shove yourself in my face every day. I give you permission to give me rude awakenings (not like you need it).
February 16, 2008
Name: Scott
Scripture: Luke 22: 39-40
OAP: I never noticed before that Jesus and the disciples went to the Mount of Olives "as usual". This was a regular practice for them, I suppose, to go to a quiet place out of the way of the city and people, and pray. They didn't just pray when they needed something, or wanted to hear something specific from God. They regularly went to this place, which I'm sure was way out of their way.
Scripture: Luke 22: 39-40
"39 Then, accompanied by the disciples, Jesus left the uplstairs room and went as usual to the Mount of Olives. 40 There He told them, 'Pray that you will not give in to temptation.'"
OAP: I never noticed before that Jesus and the disciples went to the Mount of Olives "as usual". This was a regular practice for them, I suppose, to go to a quiet place out of the way of the city and people, and pray. They didn't just pray when they needed something, or wanted to hear something specific from God. They regularly went to this place, which I'm sure was way out of their way.
I've been learning more and more about prayer (kind of) and I've been realizing how I need to kick myself in the pants, stop being lazy, and just pray. God doesn't care how I feel when I pray, it doesn't matter. The fact that I pray matters. i can take my anger out on God. I can cry with Him (if I wanted to). That's what He's there for?
Jesus, come take me away. I long to see your face. Guide me as I try and work through this mess that is me. Teach me how to pray. Thank you for such a beautiful day today! You're the best.
Let's make up
Name: Nate
Scripture: Luke 23:12
OAP: Herod & Pilate were in a weird circumstance. Herod was the local ruler, appointed by Ceasar to keep the jews and the province of Judah in line. Pilate was sent down during Passover to provide some extra security and "Roman" presence. So basically, Pilate was the big boss in Herod's turf. I can understand why Herod wouldn't want him around regulating in his neighborhood.
Scripture: Luke 23:12
"And Herod and Pilate became friends with each other that very day, for before this they had been at enmity with each other."
OAP: Herod & Pilate were in a weird circumstance. Herod was the local ruler, appointed by Ceasar to keep the jews and the province of Judah in line. Pilate was sent down during Passover to provide some extra security and "Roman" presence. So basically, Pilate was the big boss in Herod's turf. I can understand why Herod wouldn't want him around regulating in his neighborhood.
So they take turns interviewing Jesus, and both of them don't find any threat in His actions, or reason for Him to be crucified. So they become friends...is this because Pilate acknowledged Herod's power over the local people? Is it because they came to consensus over their evaluation of Jesus? I don't know, but here I find the very trial of Jesus bringing unity between two powers that are at enmity.
These two leaders didn't see any threat to their worldly power from Jesus, and they wrote Him off. What about me and my co-workers? The relationships I have with non-believers? I find myself writing Jesus and His teachings off due to perceived lack of relevance or impact on the world's infrastructure. I'm probably overanalyzing this passage, but it wouldn't be the first time.
Lord, I pray I don't write off your promptings, or your soft movement in my life. You quietly defend who You are...You have no need for grand defenses to accomplish your purposes. You wisely chose the place and time for each word. I pray you would give me that wisdom. I pray I don't write you off as irrelevant, but live beyond the business of day to day life attentive to your purposes.
Sunday, February 17
Heard melodies are sweet
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 22:39-62
"'Father if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless not my will but yours be done'....And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly"
OAP:
There isn't much for me to say about this passage that hasn't been said. This is one of the most beautiful prayers in the bible, one that I try to emulate countless times. The outline of prayer under burden. It is good. Yet even after this prayer Jesus begins to pray more earnestly. I cannot think of what would be a more earnest prayer than this one. I can't even imagine what was said during this time,and I don't think it is for me to know. We always talk about Jesus = God, but he was truly a son and I think that the words not said in this passage are the strongest ones ever said.
God, I want to talk to you in that way. I want to have that relationship. I do so much to run away from it. Please don't let me get too far. Pull me back, it is where I want to be.
Scripture: Luke 22:39-62
"'Father if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless not my will but yours be done'....And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly"
OAP:
There isn't much for me to say about this passage that hasn't been said. This is one of the most beautiful prayers in the bible, one that I try to emulate countless times. The outline of prayer under burden. It is good. Yet even after this prayer Jesus begins to pray more earnestly. I cannot think of what would be a more earnest prayer than this one. I can't even imagine what was said during this time,and I don't think it is for me to know. We always talk about Jesus = God, but he was truly a son and I think that the words not said in this passage are the strongest ones ever said.
God, I want to talk to you in that way. I want to have that relationship. I do so much to run away from it. Please don't let me get too far. Pull me back, it is where I want to be.
Saturday, February 16
Look! A puffy white cloud!
Name: Nate
Scripture: Exodus 40:36-37
Scripture: Exodus 40:36-37
"Throughout all their journeys, whenever the cloud was taken up from over the tabernacle, the people of Israel would set out. But if the cloud was not taken up, then they did not set out till the day that it was taken up."
OAP: Lucky Israelites...They had God dwelling right with them, and had clear signals about when and where to go. It seems these days that I'm rarely given the privilege of a cloud, fire, or angel to provide guidance at clear points in time on what to do. It seems like my decisions have to be based on something far less concrete, and I'm getting this unfair treatment from God.
But then I got to thinking about the Israelites. Despite all this clear guidance, they still doubted God's plan and purpose for them. They thought He was leading them aimlessly in the desert. They thought He wouldn't provide the food and water they needed. And then, when they did finally reach the promised land, they want to enter on their own terms, not in God's timing. I want to scream through history and go "How stupid are you? Follow the freakin' cloud!! It's God!"
Trusting God is not dependent upon visual manifestations. But if we don't have the benefit of that, how do we make decisions? Last night, I found this book my parents gave me a few years ago. It was an assembly of writings from a bunch of their friends and family on different topics, ranging from faithfulness, integrity, relationships, and decision making. To avoid a doubly long blog, I've quoted and paraphrased what the person wrote on decision making:
"When we ask about God's will there are three aspects of His will that we must recognize: God's sovereign will, God's moral will, and God's individual will. God's sovereign will can be defined as God's predetermined plan for everything that happens in the universe - God's sovereign plan is secret. God's moral will on the other hand is completely revealed in the Bible (1 Thes 4:3). Whenever we obey the Scriptures we are doing God's will. The third aspect, God's individual will for our lives, is a tough area. Many Christians believe that God has a blueprint for our lives and our challenge is to somehow unravel that blueprint so that we please God. The scriptures do not command us to find God's will for most of life's choices, nor to we have any passage instructing us on how it can be determined."
SO WHAT?
We can go into analysis paralysis thinking we've got to figure out the exact thing God wants us to do. However, the Christian life is a journey, not a script to be followed. We are blessed with the freedom to make decisions. As much as we might like the ease of passively following a white cloud around, we'd be missing out on the fact that we are created in the image of God with the faculties to make decisions on our own. Beyond that, we're not left abandoned by God. We've been given the Bible with thousands of decision examples and the embodiment of God's will for moral decision making. To often, I consider the Bible much like the Israelites considered God's leading in the cloud. I don't trust that its providing guidance in the right direction. I want to throw out its principles and fend for myself by the world's standards, and make decisions on my own terms, when I want to. I discredit its validity and the inspiration and provision of the God who inspired its words.
God thank you for your Word. I struggle that it does not have all the answers, but am thankful that it can be a guide for me.
More subjunctive. Go Grammar!
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 22: 1-38
Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that me might sift you like wheat but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail.
OAP: A few quick thoughts because I am extreamly tired.
Prayer is important, I have been realizing that more and more lately. Will gave a talk on prayer and it was the first one in a long time to make me realize what prayer meant to other people rather than my own view of that it only served to remind the one praying to align their will with God. anyway, that view has changed and I can see the application and wisdom of prayer, if not through that then how about this verse, Jesus prayed on our behalf and therefore we should pray on the behalf of others.
Secondly, prayer is necessary. Jesus prays for Simon and the syntax of it shows that it is a purpose, or possibly a result, clause. either way the "that" shows that without prayer, Simon would have failed. luckily we have the holy spirit interceding on our behalf.
Thirdly, it is never a sure thing, "prayed that your faith may not fail" Subjunctive. it may or it may not, all we know is that Jesus prayed so that it MAY.
God, as you talk to me about prayer and have shown me how to talk to you, continue to have understand it more fully. Will gave us some points that changed my view of prayer and I am sure that there are more, reveal those to me.
Scripture: Luke 22: 1-38
Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that me might sift you like wheat but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail.
OAP: A few quick thoughts because I am extreamly tired.
Prayer is important, I have been realizing that more and more lately. Will gave a talk on prayer and it was the first one in a long time to make me realize what prayer meant to other people rather than my own view of that it only served to remind the one praying to align their will with God. anyway, that view has changed and I can see the application and wisdom of prayer, if not through that then how about this verse, Jesus prayed on our behalf and therefore we should pray on the behalf of others.
Secondly, prayer is necessary. Jesus prays for Simon and the syntax of it shows that it is a purpose, or possibly a result, clause. either way the "that" shows that without prayer, Simon would have failed. luckily we have the holy spirit interceding on our behalf.
Thirdly, it is never a sure thing, "prayed that your faith may not fail" Subjunctive. it may or it may not, all we know is that Jesus prayed so that it MAY.
God, as you talk to me about prayer and have shown me how to talk to you, continue to have understand it more fully. Will gave us some points that changed my view of prayer and I am sure that there are more, reveal those to me.
Friday, February 15
Whining is for wimps
Name: Scott
Scripture:Psalm 25: 16-17
OAP:
Scripture:Psalm 25: 16-17
"16 Turn to me and have mercy, for I am alone and in deep distress. 17 My problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all!"
OAP:
I've been having a rough couple of weeks. I have school, rehearsal, worship, connection groups, church, projects, etc. I feel like I am pulled in several different directions, and I'm getting worn out. This passage is exactly what I feel like. I feel like I have no outlet to express my anger and questions and insecurities. Home life seems to keep getting worse, and I get more distant from my family every day.
Jesus, turn to me and have mercy , for I am alone and in deep distress. My problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all!
err..more context?
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 21
Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
OAP: Anyone notice some slight problems with these sentences? For one how about, heaven and earth passing away, heaven = passing away = not eternal = uhoh? Or let's skip that for now and go back to the most obvious, the generation that Jesus is speaking to is now dead, they have been for some time. Without a doubt they have passed away , the clear question now to ask is what is supposed to have taken place. The coming of Jesus on a cloud with power and great glory....
AH HA! you say, I must have not read for context and am grossly mistaken. Nope, as far as I can tell there is a fairly clear context concerning the end of the world.
God, it has become extremely clear to me in the past few weeks that I don't understand much of your word. Console me here, teach me what I need to understand and make clear what I can use to advance your kingdom. I can't see any part of your word being unimportant but obviously there is some that is over my head and logic, let me trust in you and use these times to speak to me. I trust you.
Scripture: Luke 21
Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
OAP: Anyone notice some slight problems with these sentences? For one how about, heaven and earth passing away, heaven = passing away = not eternal = uhoh? Or let's skip that for now and go back to the most obvious, the generation that Jesus is speaking to is now dead, they have been for some time. Without a doubt they have passed away , the clear question now to ask is what is supposed to have taken place. The coming of Jesus on a cloud with power and great glory....
AH HA! you say, I must have not read for context and am grossly mistaken. Nope, as far as I can tell there is a fairly clear context concerning the end of the world.
God, it has become extremely clear to me in the past few weeks that I don't understand much of your word. Console me here, teach me what I need to understand and make clear what I can use to advance your kingdom. I can't see any part of your word being unimportant but obviously there is some that is over my head and logic, let me trust in you and use these times to speak to me. I trust you.
Thursday, February 14
Yoshi doesn't have hands...
Name: Josh
Scripture: Luke 22: 39-62
"43An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. 44And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground."
OAP: That's some intense prayer, i tell you what. In light of what chad said, this journaling should be about how im different now from what ive read. Well prayer is for sure an area i need to work on, since most of the time i go through my day relying on my own strength and capability. My talks with God have become few and far between, jumbled and often interrupted by my own wandering mind. When i do pray out of anguish or despair, i dont pray more earnestly than usual, as Jesus did, but with less hope and interest. so my application for today is simple: pray more often and get more said with less words.
Teacher, teach me to pray. i realize im backsliding in this area of our relationship, just help me to find some footing and make slight forward motion. im not asking to have crazy prayer like Jesus did with angels and bloody sweat and all. just baby steps.
Scripture: Luke 22: 39-62
"43An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. 44And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground."
OAP: That's some intense prayer, i tell you what. In light of what chad said, this journaling should be about how im different now from what ive read. Well prayer is for sure an area i need to work on, since most of the time i go through my day relying on my own strength and capability. My talks with God have become few and far between, jumbled and often interrupted by my own wandering mind. When i do pray out of anguish or despair, i dont pray more earnestly than usual, as Jesus did, but with less hope and interest. so my application for today is simple: pray more often and get more said with less words.
Teacher, teach me to pray. i realize im backsliding in this area of our relationship, just help me to find some footing and make slight forward motion. im not asking to have crazy prayer like Jesus did with angels and bloody sweat and all. just baby steps.
More awesome than a hotdog
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 20: 27- 21:4
OAP:
I haven't looked at the scripture yet, but I was on the southhills website trying to put up all the SOAP passages on the blog for accessibilities sake and I saw this:
"Remember,the aim of journaling is to answer the question:
How will I be different today because of what I have just read."
So lets go into it with that mindset.
I fancy myself a fairly smart guy. Jesus is smarter. "and they were not able in the presence of the people to catch him in what he said, but marveling at his answer they became silent". Even as they are trying to trick Jesus, to catch him in a paradox, to outwit him they are still learning. They come to mock and yet they leave amazed and enriched. How often I rationalize anything I feel like, or don't feel comfortable with. I reason my way around it. Not only is Jesus not tricked (big suprise there) but he still uses it to love me. Thats kinda awesome. (original meaning, not hotdog)
God, may I not be so blinded in my humanity that when I go against you I cannot learn. Guide my path, but also guide my mistakes. Don't let me waste the experience of sinning as a tool for your kingdom.
Scripture: Luke 20: 27- 21:4
OAP:
I haven't looked at the scripture yet, but I was on the southhills website trying to put up all the SOAP passages on the blog for accessibilities sake and I saw this:
"Remember,the aim of journaling is to answer the question:
How will I be different today because of what I have just read."
So lets go into it with that mindset.
I fancy myself a fairly smart guy. Jesus is smarter. "and they were not able in the presence of the people to catch him in what he said, but marveling at his answer they became silent". Even as they are trying to trick Jesus, to catch him in a paradox, to outwit him they are still learning. They come to mock and yet they leave amazed and enriched. How often I rationalize anything I feel like, or don't feel comfortable with. I reason my way around it. Not only is Jesus not tricked (big suprise there) but he still uses it to love me. Thats kinda awesome. (original meaning, not hotdog)
God, may I not be so blinded in my humanity that when I go against you I cannot learn. Guide my path, but also guide my mistakes. Don't let me waste the experience of sinning as a tool for your kingdom.
Wednesday, February 13
Curtains of goat hair, crossbars of acacia wood
Name: Josh
Scripture: Exodus 36-37
OAP: So usually when I get to this part of the bible i skip over it because it's just like 4 chapters describing how God instructed Moses to build this huge tabernacle to Him. I find it sorta boring to be honest, it's just like 'then they made this out of that, and that looked like this, and this went here,' etc. But tonight while skimming through it i remembered a verse ive heard before. "16All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." - 2 Timothy 3: 16-17
So while this passage isn't as badass as Samson killing 1000 men with a donkey's jawbone, or as challenging as Jesus telling you to love those who hate you, it's here for a reason. Somehow it's supposed to teach us, rebuke + corrrect us, or train us in righteousness, it shouldn't be dry. I think these blueprints are here to say: wow, God is so awesome, look how much he deserves. All these minute details, like how the blossom decorations on a lampstand were made, they are relative and important, because God specifically asked for it. And these carpenters and construction workers, though we never study them in sunday school, were obedient to his every instruction.
Prayer: maybe im hearing this in the wrong way, God, and correct me if i am. train me to be obedient to the instructions you set for me and to follow them to the last tiny detail.
Scripture: Exodus 36-37
OAP: So usually when I get to this part of the bible i skip over it because it's just like 4 chapters describing how God instructed Moses to build this huge tabernacle to Him. I find it sorta boring to be honest, it's just like 'then they made this out of that, and that looked like this, and this went here,' etc. But tonight while skimming through it i remembered a verse ive heard before. "16All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." - 2 Timothy 3: 16-17
So while this passage isn't as badass as Samson killing 1000 men with a donkey's jawbone, or as challenging as Jesus telling you to love those who hate you, it's here for a reason. Somehow it's supposed to teach us, rebuke + corrrect us, or train us in righteousness, it shouldn't be dry. I think these blueprints are here to say: wow, God is so awesome, look how much he deserves. All these minute details, like how the blossom decorations on a lampstand were made, they are relative and important, because God specifically asked for it. And these carpenters and construction workers, though we never study them in sunday school, were obedient to his every instruction.
Prayer: maybe im hearing this in the wrong way, God, and correct me if i am. train me to be obedient to the instructions you set for me and to follow them to the last tiny detail.
The whole bible in one chapter
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 20: 1-26
OAP: This story is the story of Jesus, plain and simple. And in the end the Master destroys the tenants and gives the vineyard to others. My gut reaction is how to I get to be the others? My refined reaction is how do I make sure I am not destroyed. My final reaction, post reflection, is how do I use this to love God. The problem wasn't necessarily that they beat and killed the messengers, although that cannot be ignored, they simply didn't pay taxes. They didn't follow the rules, the law.
It was only then that people were sent to collect. The jist of this passage gives me the vision of honest attempts at honoring God is what is really necessary, not the BS that I am so competent at spewing out. The tenants ignored the law and then mocked the master, I am not so great at the following of the law, the least I could do is not mock the master.
Call me on it, I am truly sorry.
Scripture: Luke 20: 1-26
OAP: This story is the story of Jesus, plain and simple. And in the end the Master destroys the tenants and gives the vineyard to others. My gut reaction is how to I get to be the others? My refined reaction is how do I make sure I am not destroyed. My final reaction, post reflection, is how do I use this to love God. The problem wasn't necessarily that they beat and killed the messengers, although that cannot be ignored, they simply didn't pay taxes. They didn't follow the rules, the law.
It was only then that people were sent to collect. The jist of this passage gives me the vision of honest attempts at honoring God is what is really necessary, not the BS that I am so competent at spewing out. The tenants ignored the law and then mocked the master, I am not so great at the following of the law, the least I could do is not mock the master.
Call me on it, I am truly sorry.
Tuesday, February 12
Meh...
Name: Chad
Scripture: But Jesus answered, "I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!"
OAP:
Honestly the only reason that this verse stood out to me was because it has been preached on so many times. The other verses, that the blue paper tells me to read, seemed completely non applicable to anything at all. I am frustrated and tired, running on combined single digit hours of sleep for the last 4 nights. This is the first night in months that I have come close to breaking, yet I am still trying to hold it all together by my own power. I know my own power works, I can put my head down and get through this. I don't give it all to God because that means that I may not get done what I need to get done, it would mean sacrificing security, not to mention grades. I keep it because I trust myself more than I trust God.
Sustain me? Break me? Your Call.
Scripture: But Jesus answered, "I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!"
OAP:
Honestly the only reason that this verse stood out to me was because it has been preached on so many times. The other verses, that the blue paper tells me to read, seemed completely non applicable to anything at all. I am frustrated and tired, running on combined single digit hours of sleep for the last 4 nights. This is the first night in months that I have come close to breaking, yet I am still trying to hold it all together by my own power. I know my own power works, I can put my head down and get through this. I don't give it all to God because that means that I may not get done what I need to get done, it would mean sacrificing security, not to mention grades. I keep it because I trust myself more than I trust God.
Sustain me? Break me? Your Call.
Monday, February 11
meh...
Name: Josh
Scripture: Psalm 51
A Contrite Sinner's Prayer for Pardon.
"1Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. 2Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. 3For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. 4Against You, You only, I have sinned and done what is evil in Your sight, so that You are justified when You speak and blameless when You judge." Psalm 51: 1-4
OAP: Nothing else needs to be said. I messed up big this time, God. You know it. I know it. Heck, I even knew it while I did it...so let your judgment fall as it may, but please be gracious...
Scripture: Psalm 51
A Contrite Sinner's Prayer for Pardon.
"1Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. 2Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. 3For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. 4Against You, You only, I have sinned and done what is evil in Your sight, so that You are justified when You speak and blameless when You judge." Psalm 51: 1-4
OAP: Nothing else needs to be said. I messed up big this time, God. You know it. I know it. Heck, I even knew it while I did it...so let your judgment fall as it may, but please be gracious...
Sunday, February 10
3 Simple Words
Name: josh
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“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.”
OAP: I was too lazy to go upstairs to get my bible tonight, and just decided to see what biblegateway had for the verse of the day online. Lo and behold, my favorite passage from the bible appears on the screen. I think the word love is thrown around way too often in our society to the point where it hardly has any affect when you say it. "I love fruit loops" holds almost as much meaning as "I love you." And that's sad. Because reading this section reminds me constantly how much you are really saying when you tell someone those three simple, short words. They're made up of only 8 letters, yet formatted to somehow arrange a phrase that describes the most powerful human emotion possible. It's so hard to love like this, the way these verses describe it, to the point where on occasion I almost avoid telling friends I love them because I can't mean it to this extent.
Prayer: Lord, you call us to love in a different way than the world views it, in a way that's not superficial at all, that trusts blindly, that is only concerned with the well-being of others. I have experienced your great compassion first-hand and know how much you care, and wish to be able to love others as you first loved us.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“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.”
OAP: I was too lazy to go upstairs to get my bible tonight, and just decided to see what biblegateway had for the verse of the day online. Lo and behold, my favorite passage from the bible appears on the screen. I think the word love is thrown around way too often in our society to the point where it hardly has any affect when you say it. "I love fruit loops" holds almost as much meaning as "I love you." And that's sad. Because reading this section reminds me constantly how much you are really saying when you tell someone those three simple, short words. They're made up of only 8 letters, yet formatted to somehow arrange a phrase that describes the most powerful human emotion possible. It's so hard to love like this, the way these verses describe it, to the point where on occasion I almost avoid telling friends I love them because I can't mean it to this extent.
Prayer: Lord, you call us to love in a different way than the world views it, in a way that's not superficial at all, that trusts blindly, that is only concerned with the well-being of others. I have experienced your great compassion first-hand and know how much you care, and wish to be able to love others as you first loved us.
Not as sticky as two summers ago
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 18:35- 19:10
1Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. 2A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. 3He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. 4So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.
OAP:
Last night I keyed in on how Jesus also calls the rich, we just ignore him. In this passage the rich tax collector makes radical changes, gives away half his stuff, then on top of that repays all that he has take unjustly fourfold. Yes Jesus calls the rich, but it is rare to see that type of economic sacrifice that quickly. It is a radical change. That is what really sticks out to me. "God, I have been wrong let me undo it, and with interest." I don't do that radical change.
God, strike down my excuses. Flat out reject them in a way that is painfully obvious to me.
Scripture: Luke 18:35- 19:10
1Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. 2A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. 3He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. 4So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.
5When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today." 6So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.
7All the people saw this and began to mutter, "He has gone to be the guest of a 'sinner.' "
8But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, "Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount."
9Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 10For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost."
OAP:
Last night I keyed in on how Jesus also calls the rich, we just ignore him. In this passage the rich tax collector makes radical changes, gives away half his stuff, then on top of that repays all that he has take unjustly fourfold. Yes Jesus calls the rich, but it is rare to see that type of economic sacrifice that quickly. It is a radical change. That is what really sticks out to me. "God, I have been wrong let me undo it, and with interest." I don't do that radical change.
God, strike down my excuses. Flat out reject them in a way that is painfully obvious to me.
God invented laughter
Name: Josh
Scripture: Luke 18:35-19:10
"2A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. 3He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. 4So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. 5When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today." 6So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly." Luke 19:2-6
OAP: I just noticed i put my name as jose in the last entry. It made me giggle. I laugh a lot, seriously, like pretty much all the time. Id like to think that God has a sense of humor, cause he did make the platypus and all. The story of Zacchaeus is sort of funny in my opinion, because the whole thing started out because he was short and couldn't see Jesus over the crowd. So he climbed a tree. I don't know, just picturing that situation seems humorous to me. But God definitely uses the situation it in a way to promote his kingdom, and someone who is despised in the community as a sinner gets to host Jesus in his home.
Prayer: God you invented all forms of humor, you made thought up laughter, you know what's funny. Let me see that you exist in my joy and laughter, a place where i often overlook you.
Scripture: Luke 18:35-19:10
"2A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. 3He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. 4So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. 5When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today." 6So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly." Luke 19:2-6
OAP: I just noticed i put my name as jose in the last entry. It made me giggle. I laugh a lot, seriously, like pretty much all the time. Id like to think that God has a sense of humor, cause he did make the platypus and all. The story of Zacchaeus is sort of funny in my opinion, because the whole thing started out because he was short and couldn't see Jesus over the crowd. So he climbed a tree. I don't know, just picturing that situation seems humorous to me. But God definitely uses the situation it in a way to promote his kingdom, and someone who is despised in the community as a sinner gets to host Jesus in his home.
Prayer: God you invented all forms of humor, you made thought up laughter, you know what's funny. Let me see that you exist in my joy and laughter, a place where i often overlook you.
Saturday, February 9
13 Disciples
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 18: 18 - 34
22" One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me"
OAP:
I remember hearing from someone that does biblical languages that the "Come, follow me" used in this verse is the exact same phrasing that Jesus uses when he calls his other disciples. We always hear how God came and chose the lowly, the fishers, the tax collectors, the guy with a lisp yet it is also forgotten that he chose the rich as well, we just don't follow as readily. My Social Justice teacher has a thing about Moses, he (Dr. D) talks about how during the 400 years of slavery pre-Moses God could have been calling hundreds of people to rescue the Israelites from captivity, what if Moses was just the first one to say yes. ' What if this man had done as Jesus asked, then there would have been 13 disciples. God loves the poor, obviously, he came humbled yet he doesn't exclude even the rich.
God, please go easy on me, continue to take me down a path, baby steps. I am encouraged when I see how you transition into love yet I fear the radical changes. Please don't give up on me, I am trying to continue to grow, albeit slowly, continue it.
Scripture: Luke 18: 18 - 34
22" One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me"
OAP:
I remember hearing from someone that does biblical languages that the "Come, follow me" used in this verse is the exact same phrasing that Jesus uses when he calls his other disciples. We always hear how God came and chose the lowly, the fishers, the tax collectors, the guy with a lisp yet it is also forgotten that he chose the rich as well, we just don't follow as readily. My Social Justice teacher has a thing about Moses, he (Dr. D) talks about how during the 400 years of slavery pre-Moses God could have been calling hundreds of people to rescue the Israelites from captivity, what if Moses was just the first one to say yes. ' What if this man had done as Jesus asked, then there would have been 13 disciples. God loves the poor, obviously, he came humbled yet he doesn't exclude even the rich.
God, please go easy on me, continue to take me down a path, baby steps. I am encouraged when I see how you transition into love yet I fear the radical changes. Please don't give up on me, I am trying to continue to grow, albeit slowly, continue it.
Short and sour.
Name:Jose
Scripture: John 14
15"If you love me, you will obey what I command."
OAP: This verse hurts. I can't always obey His commands, i sin, i sin, i sin, i sin. Therefore i don't always love God. Ouch...
Prayer: Lord, my iniquities rise above my head, my guilt grows to the heavens. I pray for redemption not out of my own righteousness but because of your great compassion. I fail to return to you an ounce of your neverending love. I'm sorry.
Scripture: John 14
15"If you love me, you will obey what I command."
OAP: This verse hurts. I can't always obey His commands, i sin, i sin, i sin, i sin. Therefore i don't always love God. Ouch...
Prayer: Lord, my iniquities rise above my head, my guilt grows to the heavens. I pray for redemption not out of my own righteousness but because of your great compassion. I fail to return to you an ounce of your neverending love. I'm sorry.
Friday, February 8
A lazy expansion on chads verse
Name: Josh
Scripture: Luke 18: 13
But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner."
OAP: I guess the thing that made me want to journal on this is that this guy has such disgrace and anguish in crying out to God for forgiveness. I realize that in some of my more usual and fleshly habitual sins that coming to God for forgiveness has become ritualistic and sometimes doesn't really hold that much remorse anymore. Its just like "Oh hey, yeah God...sorry i did that...well i guess ill see you later right?" And who knows what this tax collector did wrong, it could have been something huge, it could have been some little hidden guilt that was weighing on his heart, who knows. But the way he comes totally broken and fearful before God, as i rarely do, noteworthy to say the least.
Prayer: Lord make me fear your supreme judgment of my actions to the point where i cry out "God, have mercy on me, a sinner."
Scripture: Luke 18: 13
But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner."
OAP: I guess the thing that made me want to journal on this is that this guy has such disgrace and anguish in crying out to God for forgiveness. I realize that in some of my more usual and fleshly habitual sins that coming to God for forgiveness has become ritualistic and sometimes doesn't really hold that much remorse anymore. Its just like "Oh hey, yeah God...sorry i did that...well i guess ill see you later right?" And who knows what this tax collector did wrong, it could have been something huge, it could have been some little hidden guilt that was weighing on his heart, who knows. But the way he comes totally broken and fearful before God, as i rarely do, noteworthy to say the least.
Prayer: Lord make me fear your supreme judgment of my actions to the point where i cry out "God, have mercy on me, a sinner."
Thursday, February 7
stuff
Name: Dillon
Scripture: It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. 31On that day no one who is on the roof of his house, with his goods inside, should go down to get them. Likewise, no one in the field should go back for anything"
OAP:'
so basicaly all the stuff we have and treasure now isn't worth crap.
does this mean I shouldnt buy the latest and greatest thing?
that's hard for me because I like having things as much as the next guy. so what should we do?
should we not buy any cool things because it's not gonna be around for much longer?
I gotta go so this is really short but chad i think you'll be happy i blogged
God help me to dicern what I should waste time and money on.
Scripture: It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. 31On that day no one who is on the roof of his house, with his goods inside, should go down to get them. Likewise, no one in the field should go back for anything"
OAP:'
so basicaly all the stuff we have and treasure now isn't worth crap.
does this mean I shouldnt buy the latest and greatest thing?
that's hard for me because I like having things as much as the next guy. so what should we do?
should we not buy any cool things because it's not gonna be around for much longer?
I gotta go so this is really short but chad i think you'll be happy i blogged
God help me to dicern what I should waste time and money on.
Wednesday, February 6
Heat
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 17: 20-37
OAP:
Greatest heist Movies of All Time:
1. Ocean's 11
2. Ronin
3. Heat
One of the most memorable lines from heat, "Don't let yourself get attached to anything you are not willing to walk out on in 30 seconds flat if you feel the heat around the corner"
"It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. 31On that day no one who is on the roof of his house, with his goods inside, should go down to get them. Likewise, no one in the field should go back for anything"
I was watching Children of Men tonight and I tried to imagine my reaction to the end of the world, how I would accept it. Would I be ok with it? Do I value the world enough for me to be attached? I think what it is is simply that I am spoiled, that nothing really matters to me because I am never in any real danger of losing anything. When I lost my laptop all my feelings were disappointment that my parents stretched their budgets for me and they get no payoff. Right now life is a game for me, I can't honestly say I have passion for much, or that I really care. I can't decide if that is a good thing or not... People say that passion is what makes life worth living, but life isn't the end goal of life. Not that I am not enjoying life, or anything like that. I am having a great time living and truly do love almost everything that I do, including school. But when it gets taken away, I think I will be ok with it.
God, I am confused this seems like such a bad thing, yet I think it is good. Clarify my attitude towards your creation.
Scripture: Luke 17: 20-37
30"It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. 31On that day no one who is on the roof of his house, with his goods inside, should go down to get them. Likewise, no one in the field should go back for anything. 32Remember Lot's wife! 33Whoever tries to keep his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it. 34I tell you, on that night two people will be in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. 35Two women will be grinding grain together; one will be taken and the other left."
OAP:
Greatest heist Movies of All Time:
1. Ocean's 11
2. Ronin
3. Heat
One of the most memorable lines from heat, "Don't let yourself get attached to anything you are not willing to walk out on in 30 seconds flat if you feel the heat around the corner"
"It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. 31On that day no one who is on the roof of his house, with his goods inside, should go down to get them. Likewise, no one in the field should go back for anything"
I was watching Children of Men tonight and I tried to imagine my reaction to the end of the world, how I would accept it. Would I be ok with it? Do I value the world enough for me to be attached? I think what it is is simply that I am spoiled, that nothing really matters to me because I am never in any real danger of losing anything. When I lost my laptop all my feelings were disappointment that my parents stretched their budgets for me and they get no payoff. Right now life is a game for me, I can't honestly say I have passion for much, or that I really care. I can't decide if that is a good thing or not... People say that passion is what makes life worth living, but life isn't the end goal of life. Not that I am not enjoying life, or anything like that. I am having a great time living and truly do love almost everything that I do, including school. But when it gets taken away, I think I will be ok with it.
God, I am confused this seems like such a bad thing, yet I think it is good. Clarify my attitude towards your creation.
Tomorrow
Name: Nick
Scripture: Luke 17:20-37 28"It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. 29But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all.
OAP: It's scary how God compares our future rapture to the death (by firery explosion) of all these "gay guys" in Sodom. I wonder what I will be doing when He comes to take us to heaven? Hopefully something good, even though He does say it will be at a completely unexpected time. Another thought this verse prompts in my mind is whether or not we will be seeing anything that goes on during the Tribulation. I've even read all of Revelation and I still don't know if we will be watching what happens on earth.
Lord, please calm my anxiety over the future.
Scripture: Luke 17:20-37 28"It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. 29But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all.
OAP: It's scary how God compares our future rapture to the death (by firery explosion) of all these "gay guys" in Sodom. I wonder what I will be doing when He comes to take us to heaven? Hopefully something good, even though He does say it will be at a completely unexpected time. Another thought this verse prompts in my mind is whether or not we will be seeing anything that goes on during the Tribulation. I've even read all of Revelation and I still don't know if we will be watching what happens on earth.
Lord, please calm my anxiety over the future.
Covered in Ashes on Wednesday
Name: Andrew Burriss
Scripture: 1 Peter 1: 13-15
13So think clearly and exercise sefl-control. Look forward to the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 14So you must live as God's obedient children. Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn't know any better then. 15But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy.
OAP:People need the lord! The passage tells me that I need to be practicing being holy like God. Things like looking foward to discoving our gracious salvation with God to exercising self-control. "Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires" God is saying to us that when we come in contact with God, we need to stay close with him and not stray back to Satan. We have to try to not be black sheep any more but try to become pure white sheep that stay close with God.
To me I feel that this directly applies to my life. I begin to only look for God when I need him most. After I humble myself to God I begin to stray when I feel like I don't need God anymore.
This passage reminds me that I can't just sit around and expect to have a close relationship with God if I don't work out my Salvation or in other words look forward to a gracious salvation with God. I can't slip into my old ways. This passage teaches my two really good things at the same time. One being to look forward to the gracious salvation of God and the other to keep ourselves in a holy bound with God once we attain the strong relationship. For me Moods drive my Christain life. If I'm in a bad mood then I will try to search for God but when I'm happy I forget about my relationship with God and ignore what God throws at me instead of just stopping and listening to what God was trying to say to me. The last part of this passage says "15But you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy." God is telling me that because he chose us to be with him we need to be holy like him. This isn't saying that we will be perfect people but Christ wants me to maintain a steady passionate relationship with him.
There is too much to say about this passage. This passage is the most important set of verses to me because it really ties any question I have about my realionship with God. my mind is so confused because of how much glory and meaning that this passage means to me. I can't explain all of it, thats how much it means to my life. I have to say I love these verses so so much.
Prayer: God feel like my relationship with you isn't as close as I want to to be. The problem with our relationship is me. I'm not serving you in the right way. I always feel like my relationship with you is friven by my mood. my mood drive me sometimes to you but other times away from from you. I really want a strong and steady relationship. God in philipians 4:13 you say " I can do everything through Christ,who give me strength. God please give me your strength. The strength to keep exercising self-control, looking forward to gracious salvation and live in God's shadow as a member of a very steady relationship with God bound by holiness.
Amen
Scripture: 1 Peter 1: 13-15
13So think clearly and exercise sefl-control. Look forward to the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 14So you must live as God's obedient children. Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn't know any better then. 15But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy.
OAP:People need the lord! The passage tells me that I need to be practicing being holy like God. Things like looking foward to discoving our gracious salvation with God to exercising self-control. "Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires" God is saying to us that when we come in contact with God, we need to stay close with him and not stray back to Satan. We have to try to not be black sheep any more but try to become pure white sheep that stay close with God.
To me I feel that this directly applies to my life. I begin to only look for God when I need him most. After I humble myself to God I begin to stray when I feel like I don't need God anymore.
This passage reminds me that I can't just sit around and expect to have a close relationship with God if I don't work out my Salvation or in other words look forward to a gracious salvation with God. I can't slip into my old ways. This passage teaches my two really good things at the same time. One being to look forward to the gracious salvation of God and the other to keep ourselves in a holy bound with God once we attain the strong relationship. For me Moods drive my Christain life. If I'm in a bad mood then I will try to search for God but when I'm happy I forget about my relationship with God and ignore what God throws at me instead of just stopping and listening to what God was trying to say to me. The last part of this passage says "15But you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy." God is telling me that because he chose us to be with him we need to be holy like him. This isn't saying that we will be perfect people but Christ wants me to maintain a steady passionate relationship with him.
There is too much to say about this passage. This passage is the most important set of verses to me because it really ties any question I have about my realionship with God. my mind is so confused because of how much glory and meaning that this passage means to me. I can't explain all of it, thats how much it means to my life. I have to say I love these verses so so much.
Prayer: God feel like my relationship with you isn't as close as I want to to be. The problem with our relationship is me. I'm not serving you in the right way. I always feel like my relationship with you is friven by my mood. my mood drive me sometimes to you but other times away from from you. I really want a strong and steady relationship. God in philipians 4:13 you say " I can do everything through Christ,who give me strength. God please give me your strength. The strength to keep exercising self-control, looking forward to gracious salvation and live in God's shadow as a member of a very steady relationship with God bound by holiness.
Amen
I'm like an anti-shepherd
Name: Josh
Scripture: Exodus 23-24
4"If you come across your enemy's ox or donkey wandering off, be sure to take it back to him. 5If you see the donkey of someone who hates you fallen down under its load, do not leave it there; be sure you help him with it." Exodus 23: 4-5
OAP: I seriously read every other passage for todays entry and nothing was really new or seemed that intriguing. But today the new testament, which is usually dry for me, was pretty interesting and challenging. I hate to say it but i believe if i ever did come across an enemy of mine or in distress or needing help i would take it as a sign from God that they are getting punished or something. When bad people have bad things done to them in return, i sometimes feel smug or satisfied, like they had it coming. It never really occurred to me that God loves the people who hate my guts, its not like Hes on my side and trying to sabotage them. He doesn't hold grudges like me. Its probably the people who despise me the most that God wants to love on the most, like how he wants his lost sheep to come home. But i laugh and rejoice at the fallen sheep that God longs to hold again, exactly the opposite of what im called to do as a christian.
Prayer: God teach me to love like you.
Scripture: Exodus 23-24
4"If you come across your enemy's ox or donkey wandering off, be sure to take it back to him. 5If you see the donkey of someone who hates you fallen down under its load, do not leave it there; be sure you help him with it." Exodus 23: 4-5
OAP: I seriously read every other passage for todays entry and nothing was really new or seemed that intriguing. But today the new testament, which is usually dry for me, was pretty interesting and challenging. I hate to say it but i believe if i ever did come across an enemy of mine or in distress or needing help i would take it as a sign from God that they are getting punished or something. When bad people have bad things done to them in return, i sometimes feel smug or satisfied, like they had it coming. It never really occurred to me that God loves the people who hate my guts, its not like Hes on my side and trying to sabotage them. He doesn't hold grudges like me. Its probably the people who despise me the most that God wants to love on the most, like how he wants his lost sheep to come home. But i laugh and rejoice at the fallen sheep that God longs to hold again, exactly the opposite of what im called to do as a christian.
Prayer: God teach me to love like you.
Tuesday, February 5
4 minutes flat
Name: Chad
Scripture:Luke 17:3
So watch yourselves! "If another believer sins rebuke that person; then if there is repentence, forgive.
OAP:I'm, tired sore, my head hurts. I didn't read the soap for today, I read Andrew's post. This is my quick observation and application because I know I will be asleep 3 minutes after I post this. specify, If another believer sins, then rebuke them, believer, believer thats it. The rest of this does not apply to non-believers. Repentance is only necessary if it is a believer, if it is not then I don't think repentance need be supplied, as a condition for forgiveness, I also don't think that rebuke is warranted with a non-believer. Believer, not everyone you meet on the street, not anyone with a different religion, not a random guy you just found out was gay. Believer
God,thanks for sleep
Scripture:Luke 17:3
So watch yourselves! "If another believer sins rebuke that person; then if there is repentence, forgive.
OAP:I'm, tired sore, my head hurts. I didn't read the soap for today, I read Andrew's post. This is my quick observation and application because I know I will be asleep 3 minutes after I post this. specify, If another believer sins, then rebuke them, believer, believer thats it. The rest of this does not apply to non-believers. Repentance is only necessary if it is a believer, if it is not then I don't think repentance need be supplied, as a condition for forgiveness, I also don't think that rebuke is warranted with a non-believer. Believer, not everyone you meet on the street, not anyone with a different religion, not a random guy you just found out was gay. Believer
God,thanks for sleep
It's too late to apologiiiiize, it's too laaattteeee....not.
Name: Josh
Scripture: Luke 17: 1-19
"4If your brother sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him."
OAP: This such a simple verse, yet so much easier said than done. How many times do we hear this and just accept it as a typical christian thing to do, that we should always "forgive and forget?" But would you really forgive someone for sinning against you the same way even just 7 times in a day? What if it was something big like being stolen from, being hurt physically or emotionally, or being blatantly deceived? I know that for me its not always that easy. For me at least, theres always a lack of trust (no matter how big) that follows an accepted apology because we cant totally wipe the slate clean and forgive like God can. Its just human nature.
Prayer: One part of the Lord's prayer sticks out to me right now, "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." God, teach me to pardon like you. Don't let me forgive someone just as a response to their apology and hold secret doubt or qualms inside, as i long to hold no records of wrongs as you do. I realize that last statement is extremely heavy and probably way out of my grasp for now, but grow in me to practice at it.
Scripture: Luke 17: 1-19
"4If your brother sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him."
OAP: This such a simple verse, yet so much easier said than done. How many times do we hear this and just accept it as a typical christian thing to do, that we should always "forgive and forget?" But would you really forgive someone for sinning against you the same way even just 7 times in a day? What if it was something big like being stolen from, being hurt physically or emotionally, or being blatantly deceived? I know that for me its not always that easy. For me at least, theres always a lack of trust (no matter how big) that follows an accepted apology because we cant totally wipe the slate clean and forgive like God can. Its just human nature.
Prayer: One part of the Lord's prayer sticks out to me right now, "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." God, teach me to pardon like you. Don't let me forgive someone just as a response to their apology and hold secret doubt or qualms inside, as i long to hold no records of wrongs as you do. I realize that last statement is extremely heavy and probably way out of my grasp for now, but grow in me to practice at it.
I am sorry I have been behind...
Name: Andrew
Scripture: Luke 17:3
So watch yourselves! "If another believer sins rebuke that person; then if there is repentence, forgive.
OAP: This one verse alone is so amazing! This is one of those verses that really sticks out of the entire passage. I noticed that GOd is saying that we need to be punished for our sin when we follow Satan's temtation. I really like that God is sating to us that we need to search for forgiveness, forgiveness isn't just going to show up on our door. This verse brings me back to Charltons talk about seaching for our salvation.
I can apply to this to my life by saying that I need to focus on not sinning and saying to my self "oh i can just sin here and there and God will forgive me later".
Scripture: Luke 17:3
So watch yourselves! "If another believer sins rebuke that person; then if there is repentence, forgive.
OAP: This one verse alone is so amazing! This is one of those verses that really sticks out of the entire passage. I noticed that GOd is saying that we need to be punished for our sin when we follow Satan's temtation. I really like that God is sating to us that we need to search for forgiveness, forgiveness isn't just going to show up on our door. This verse brings me back to Charltons talk about seaching for our salvation.
I can apply to this to my life by saying that I need to focus on not sinning and saying to my self "oh i can just sin here and there and God will forgive me later".
Monday, February 4
Bye Bye Sager...
Name: Chad
Scripture: Luke 16
OAP: I am identifying heavily with the manager right now, yet I can't get to the level of his forgiveness. I just had my laptop stolen in the mail and it is hard enough forgiving the guy, but being proud of him? And I rationalize, it goes like this; I am not angry for myself, I am angry because my parents payed for it and they are the ones who got stolen from. How can I forgive in the way of the manger when someone stole from my family. Now I am thinking about forgiveness, how I can forgive someone who wrongs me, but its not my place to forgive others. Is this forgiving like God? I hurt people that God loves all the time, and he forgives me, yet I don't look at it like that I have always seen it as me hurting God and the person separately, and asking each of their forgiveness separately. How about that God has already forgave the person that stole my laptop, my beautiful Sager np2090, God forgave them for putting the hardship on my parents. Who am I to withhold that type of forgiveness when God is already giving it to them. And I am talking about the forgiveness in luke 16, which is different and new to me. I don't know, maybe this sounds obvious but it is a different way of thinking about God's love than I have before.
Scripture: Luke 16
OAP: I am identifying heavily with the manager right now, yet I can't get to the level of his forgiveness. I just had my laptop stolen in the mail and it is hard enough forgiving the guy, but being proud of him? And I rationalize, it goes like this; I am not angry for myself, I am angry because my parents payed for it and they are the ones who got stolen from. How can I forgive in the way of the manger when someone stole from my family. Now I am thinking about forgiveness, how I can forgive someone who wrongs me, but its not my place to forgive others. Is this forgiving like God? I hurt people that God loves all the time, and he forgives me, yet I don't look at it like that I have always seen it as me hurting God and the person separately, and asking each of their forgiveness separately. How about that God has already forgave the person that stole my laptop, my beautiful Sager np2090, God forgave them for putting the hardship on my parents. Who am I to withhold that type of forgiveness when God is already giving it to them. And I am talking about the forgiveness in luke 16, which is different and new to me. I don't know, maybe this sounds obvious but it is a different way of thinking about God's love than I have before.
Stop, thief! Vandal! Outrage! Scoundrel!
Name: Josh
Scripture: Luke 16
Verses 1-7 are long so here's a paraphrase. They tell the tale of an accountant being fired by his wealthy master for wasting money, and who then after wondering what to do for a living, comes up with a plan to get people to welcome him when he's homeless out on the streets. He tells people who owe his master money or goods to not worry about it and cut down the amount they will pay him back, so that they will befriend the now jobless accountant. You think that when the master finds out his manager is ripping him off, that he would flip out, but...
8-9"Now here's a surprise: The master praised the crooked manager! And why? Because he knew how to look after himself. Streetwise people are smarter in this regard than law-abiding citizens. They are on constant alert, looking for angles, surviving by their wits. I want you to be smart in the same way—but for what is right—using every adversity to stimulate you to creative survival, to concentrate your attention on the bare essentials, so you'll live, really live, and not complacently just get by on good behavior."
OAP: I like the way the Message delivers these verses because the NIV+ (haha scotty) was kind of confusing for me. Anyways, i want to live like this. I want to get by with only just the minimum God wants to give me, so ill still be dependent on him but have to use my resources wisely.
Prayer: God, im obviously not even close to being needy or poor. Youve gifted me enormously, and feel free to take whatever you need away to make me more reliant on you, even if its uncomfortable and my flesh still holds on to it in gluttony. I dont want to just get by and be well off, i want to feel alive and notice that every little thing you grant me is you showing up in my life. If its your will, make me a street rat like Aladdin.
Scripture: Luke 16
Verses 1-7 are long so here's a paraphrase. They tell the tale of an accountant being fired by his wealthy master for wasting money, and who then after wondering what to do for a living, comes up with a plan to get people to welcome him when he's homeless out on the streets. He tells people who owe his master money or goods to not worry about it and cut down the amount they will pay him back, so that they will befriend the now jobless accountant. You think that when the master finds out his manager is ripping him off, that he would flip out, but...
8-9"Now here's a surprise: The master praised the crooked manager! And why? Because he knew how to look after himself. Streetwise people are smarter in this regard than law-abiding citizens. They are on constant alert, looking for angles, surviving by their wits. I want you to be smart in the same way—but for what is right—using every adversity to stimulate you to creative survival, to concentrate your attention on the bare essentials, so you'll live, really live, and not complacently just get by on good behavior."
OAP: I like the way the Message delivers these verses because the NIV+ (haha scotty) was kind of confusing for me. Anyways, i want to live like this. I want to get by with only just the minimum God wants to give me, so ill still be dependent on him but have to use my resources wisely.
Prayer: God, im obviously not even close to being needy or poor. Youve gifted me enormously, and feel free to take whatever you need away to make me more reliant on you, even if its uncomfortable and my flesh still holds on to it in gluttony. I dont want to just get by and be well off, i want to feel alive and notice that every little thing you grant me is you showing up in my life. If its your will, make me a street rat like Aladdin.
Life's a Rat Race?
Name:Josh
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3
19"Man's fate is like that of the animals; the same fate awaits them both: As one dies, so dies the other. All have the same breath; man has no advantage over the animal. Everything is meaningless. 20All go to the same place; all come from dust, and to dust all return. 21Who knows if the spirit of man rises upward and if the spirit of the animal goes down into the earth?"22So I saw that there is nothing better for a man than to enjoy his work, because that is his lot. For who can bring him to see what will happen after him?
OAP: I feel icky and tired and i honestly don't know why i picked this section. I was just reading the "time for everything under the sun" passage Nate read tonight, and kept going till i got here. I remember when a group of us got together to brainstorm how to teach Ecclesiastes, and this part stuck out to me then too. At first it just seemed confusing, that right after Solomon says there is a right time and place for everything, that he says that everything is meaningless. Then I realized that this is Solomon doubting his faith. "Who knows if the spirit of man rises upward [to heaven?] and if the spirit of the animal goes down into the earth?" He then basically says enjoy: your life on earth, have fun because nothing else afterwards is certain. Its cool that someone so close to God like king Solomon doubts like this, and i guess it just made me realize that its ok to have these misgiving thoughts and questions. Im not sure how to make an application out of this...but yeah.
Prayer: Thank you for hearing me. Thank you for hearing my qualms and skepticisms and being ok with them. Im not sure if im reading this chapter right or anything, if im not give me comprehension and understanding. I just want to hear your voice and apprehend your will.
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3
19"Man's fate is like that of the animals; the same fate awaits them both: As one dies, so dies the other. All have the same breath; man has no advantage over the animal. Everything is meaningless. 20All go to the same place; all come from dust, and to dust all return. 21Who knows if the spirit of man rises upward and if the spirit of the animal goes down into the earth?"22So I saw that there is nothing better for a man than to enjoy his work, because that is his lot. For who can bring him to see what will happen after him?
OAP: I feel icky and tired and i honestly don't know why i picked this section. I was just reading the "time for everything under the sun" passage Nate read tonight, and kept going till i got here. I remember when a group of us got together to brainstorm how to teach Ecclesiastes, and this part stuck out to me then too. At first it just seemed confusing, that right after Solomon says there is a right time and place for everything, that he says that everything is meaningless. Then I realized that this is Solomon doubting his faith. "Who knows if the spirit of man rises upward [to heaven?] and if the spirit of the animal goes down into the earth?" He then basically says enjoy: your life on earth, have fun because nothing else afterwards is certain. Its cool that someone so close to God like king Solomon doubts like this, and i guess it just made me realize that its ok to have these misgiving thoughts and questions. Im not sure how to make an application out of this...but yeah.
Prayer: Thank you for hearing me. Thank you for hearing my qualms and skepticisms and being ok with them. Im not sure if im reading this chapter right or anything, if im not give me comprehension and understanding. I just want to hear your voice and apprehend your will.
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