(A poem written by Rhode Island poet laureate Lisa Starr).
Because
Lately she's been falling in love everywhere-
at the market, in the pharmacy, always in the cafeteria
sliding her tray over the metal rails,
last week with the hands of the attendant at a gas station.
It's not right, she knows, but still, she can't help it.
Sometimes it happens all day long.
Yesterday at the campus it was everything again-
The way the postmaster, on lunch break, went whistling
past,
or how the Frisbee players sing in the quad.
The way some students stay after class, that usually gets
her.
Cashiers, people who sing at stoplights-all fair game.
Cab drivers-forget it.
With ice cream scoopers, with their little paper hats,
it is often love at first sight,
and she will never forget the boy at the sandwich shop-
the way he said "miss, would you like anything to drink?"
to the 80-year-old woman in front of her,
then when it was her turn, said "Ma'am instead.
Later today, blessed by all this loving
she will make some tea and play a violin concerto
for her dog who is deaf.
She will play the music as loud as it will go
because she can, and because somehow, he'll hear it,
and he will stand on the porch of the fine yellow house,
glowing.
She will be all choked up
because the lawn chairs
have never been this white before,
and because, tired ears flapping
in a soft Autumn breeze,
the old dog will bark back his joy.
Is this how love is? Falling in love with the everyday routine? Or, is it something more? Does God call us to love material things, as the main character in this poem does or does He call us to love himself, giving a face and feet and hands to a world, displaying a love that gave it all?
I do not deny that God calls us to love. I believe that unlike the woman in this poem, that God calls us to love like Jesus; not to fall in love with the everyday routines of life (i.e. a morning coffee, that ritual phone call to a friend). His love that he calls us to emobdy goes far beyond a grammatically correct love letter. He wants us to embody his character so that we become more like Him. From experience and conversations with friends, God wants his people to fall in love with the brokenness of everyday; not so that we are hurt and physically incapable of of moving on, but to love our world with the spectacles of Jesus. I believe that he wants us to look at a friend who is hurting inside contemplating thoughts of suicide and depression and love on them. Not that kind of love that responds with an "I'm sorry" but that kind of love that envisions a new beginning for that person; the kind of love that will sit on the couch and just listen; the kind of love that raises others higher than themselves.
True love does not divorce after an argument. Rather, it recognizes that love is the basis of everything; it is a oneness, a wholeness; a place where everything is put in its right place. Love runs the risk of getting hurt and being abandoned. Jesus was the perfect example of that. He took our infirmities on the cross with himself to die. In turn, we abandoned him by choosing the path out of his designed plan for us. The Garden of Eden in Genesis was a gift to Adam and Eve from God. Instead, they prostituted that gift with selfish desires and an "I want" mentality.
Love requires us to go beyond the limits of time and space to see a person for who God really made them to be. It's allowing ourselves to get "naked" (figuratively, of course) before each other and being unashamed just like the first man and woman were. So, how do we remain true to God, to ourselves, and to our friends?
It's stripping off the layers of clothing we have covered ourselves with. It's being completely and brutally honest with one another out of love in an effort to change and to become more like Christ. Here's a question that we should be asking ourselves everyday: "Do I love God with all my heart and with all my soul and with all my mind?" and "Do I love my neighbor as myself?" God says that we can't have one without the other. You can't have orange juice without the oranges.
Love is more than just kissing and hold hands. It is an action. Let's love with our hearts and be agents of change.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
letter to God
Dear God,
My life has gone from dull to colorful ever since you stepped into the doorway of my life. It is not because of the love of any man, but by your grace that my life has become a rainbow of colors beaming in on a rainy day.
As the "question girl", I have to ask one thing. I have been noticing that my life is swinging closer to adulthood. My responsibilities are getting more demanding, new friendships are being formed....could it be that I'm really growing up?
I'm honored that I get to be a part of your work, God. But truthfully, I'm just tired. I long for the days of old, to lay by your side, wrapped in a white blanket of peace.
How do I find rest, even in the busyness of each day? Where can I go to escape with you; where is our "eden"? Where are you calling my name in the garden and the noise of the world is just drowing you out? Guide me into a place of rest. Allow me to search, continue to pull, stretch my every being, so that I may look and behave more and more like you.
Your daughter,
Alexandra
My life has gone from dull to colorful ever since you stepped into the doorway of my life. It is not because of the love of any man, but by your grace that my life has become a rainbow of colors beaming in on a rainy day.
As the "question girl", I have to ask one thing. I have been noticing that my life is swinging closer to adulthood. My responsibilities are getting more demanding, new friendships are being formed....could it be that I'm really growing up?
I'm honored that I get to be a part of your work, God. But truthfully, I'm just tired. I long for the days of old, to lay by your side, wrapped in a white blanket of peace.
How do I find rest, even in the busyness of each day? Where can I go to escape with you; where is our "eden"? Where are you calling my name in the garden and the noise of the world is just drowing you out? Guide me into a place of rest. Allow me to search, continue to pull, stretch my every being, so that I may look and behave more and more like you.
Your daughter,
Alexandra
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
rain
Lately, I have been learning how to risk.
How to risk it all without losing it all.
How to risk just enough without losing out.
How to risk a healthy balance and still receive the thrill of risk taking.
But, as I sit back and wonder if I have really experienced risk at all -
the answer is
no.
not until I have sacrificed my personal needs and desires and wants and aspirations in life
in exchange for the
personal needs and desires and wants and aspirations that God has for my life.
and so, i kneel down at my bedside, hands clasped prayerfully as a good religious child would do
and ask God
to take it all.
my selfishness, my hurts, my anger, my resentment towards other people.
and instead, fill my body with the living water that I thirst for everyday.
for material things will not suffice, plants that will wither when the first rain comes will never stay when a real problem arises.
only his friendship and his love will truly last
forever.
and the ring that he puts on my finger will always be shining in his sunlight
as a gentle reminder of his passionate and unfailing love towards
me.
Copyright -
Alex Puleo
September 7, 2010
How to risk it all without losing it all.
How to risk just enough without losing out.
How to risk a healthy balance and still receive the thrill of risk taking.
But, as I sit back and wonder if I have really experienced risk at all -
the answer is
no.
not until I have sacrificed my personal needs and desires and wants and aspirations in life
in exchange for the
personal needs and desires and wants and aspirations that God has for my life.
and so, i kneel down at my bedside, hands clasped prayerfully as a good religious child would do
and ask God
to take it all.
my selfishness, my hurts, my anger, my resentment towards other people.
and instead, fill my body with the living water that I thirst for everyday.
for material things will not suffice, plants that will wither when the first rain comes will never stay when a real problem arises.
only his friendship and his love will truly last
forever.
and the ring that he puts on my finger will always be shining in his sunlight
as a gentle reminder of his passionate and unfailing love towards
me.
Copyright -
Alex Puleo
September 7, 2010
Friday, August 20, 2010
when it comes down to it...
'So this guy comes up to me and says,
"What's the vision? What's the big idea?"
I open my mouth and words come out like this...
The vision?
The vision is Jesus.
Obsessively, dangerously, undeniably Jesus.'
~Pete Greig
"What's the vision? What's the big idea?"
I open my mouth and words come out like this...
The vision?
The vision is Jesus.
Obsessively, dangerously, undeniably Jesus.'
~Pete Greig
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Think
found this in my inbox this morning from a friend and just wanted to share it with you.
\\\\\\\\\
There was a blind girl who hated herself because she was blind.
She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend.
He was always there for her.
She told her boyfriend,
'If I could only see the world, I will marry you.'
One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her.
When the bandages came off, she was able to see everything, including her boyfriend.
He asked her,
'Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?'
The girl looked at her boyfriend and saw that he was blind.
The sight of his closed eyelids shocked her.
She hadn't expected that.
The thought of looking at them the rest of her life led her to refuse to marry him.
Her boyfriend left in tears and days later wrote a note to her saying:
'Take good care of your eyes, my dear, for before they were yours, they were mine.'
This is how the human brain often works when our status changes.
Only a very few remember what life was like before,
and who was always by their side in the most painful situations.
Life Is a Gift
Today before you say an unkind word -
Think of someone who can't speak.
Before you complain about the taste of your food -
Think of someone who has nothing to eat.
Before you complain about your husband or wife -
Think of someone who's crying out to GOD for a companion.
Today before you complain about life -
Think of someone who went too early to heaven..
Before whining about the distance you drive-
Think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet.
And when you are tired and complain about your job -
Think of the unemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had your job.
And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down -
Put a smile on your face and think:
you're alive and still around.
========================
\\\\\\\\\
There was a blind girl who hated herself because she was blind.
She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend.
He was always there for her.
She told her boyfriend,
'If I could only see the world, I will marry you.'
One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her.
When the bandages came off, she was able to see everything, including her boyfriend.
He asked her,
'Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?'
The girl looked at her boyfriend and saw that he was blind.
The sight of his closed eyelids shocked her.
She hadn't expected that.
The thought of looking at them the rest of her life led her to refuse to marry him.
Her boyfriend left in tears and days later wrote a note to her saying:
'Take good care of your eyes, my dear, for before they were yours, they were mine.'
This is how the human brain often works when our status changes.
Only a very few remember what life was like before,
and who was always by their side in the most painful situations.
Life Is a Gift
Today before you say an unkind word -
Think of someone who can't speak.
Before you complain about the taste of your food -
Think of someone who has nothing to eat.
Before you complain about your husband or wife -
Think of someone who's crying out to GOD for a companion.
Today before you complain about life -
Think of someone who went too early to heaven..
Before whining about the distance you drive-
Think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet.
And when you are tired and complain about your job -
Think of the unemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had your job.
And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down -
Put a smile on your face and think:
you're alive and still around.
========================
Monday, August 2, 2010
pharisee faith vs. widow faith.
A friend once said to me: "If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans."
A question that I have been asked repeatedly this summer by friends, family and neighbors is "What's next? After college, do you know what you want to do?" I often wonder about the paths in my life. If I choose to take Path A, will I ever be found wandering on Path B? And if I choose Path B, will Path A be forever washed away from my life?
College is a time of exploration but more than that, it is a time of identity. Of finding out who you really are. Of discovering life from your very own eyes; a life that no one else can experience except you.
This summer, my identity has been found in God. I have been following the Spirit's leading in my life. To obey this "pushing" as I have come to call it, is new for me. The experiences have taken me places and caused me to grow in my faith. I guess you could say that my faith has become "simple." A faith honestly searching for God in the everyday brokenness of society; a faith that seeks to be the selfless love that Jesus calls us to inhabit; a faith that is not satisfied with being the same everyday but different. My God has shown me (oftentimes bluntly) that it is His purposes that matter in the world. When I begin to encompass his desires as my own, my life starts to make sense. I have found that it may not make sense to the world; in fact it probably looks ridiculous, but it makes sense to God and to me. I have faced challenges in this continuous journey, but more importantly, my God has always been there for me. He has not left when I have messed up or fallen short. In fact, he has picked me up and embraced me as a young daughter of his own. To be held by an everlasting father who knows you (literally) from the inside out, leaves me awestruck.
Openly sharing my faith has also been a new journey for me. For years, I have kept my relationship with God very private. Until now, he has shown me that through community, brings restoration and discipleship. Through community we begin to learn more about ourselves and each other and the world than we ever would begin to understand by ourselves. God is not impressed by a "pharisee" kind of faith. A life that preaches loudly from street corners and condemns those who do not conform to their ways. The faith that he has been placing on me this summer has been that of someone different. The Bible tells of a story of a widow who gives her last coin (literally, all of the money that she had left) to God. The religious elite were like those writing checks in today's society and thinking nothing of the poor. But, it is this woman who captures God's attention and brings healing to her life. I long to be this widow, so poor and destitute, that God calls her by her name. No longer is she characterized by these untrue stereotypes but her heart for God's kingdom is revealed in plain sight.
This woman is an inspiration to me and I hope, an inspiration to all of you reading this. I am not perfect, but I am slowly learning how to trust God with every area of my life. This brings about many new challenges and sometimes paths do intersect. But, I take comfort in knowing that regardless of the path I find myself walking barefoot on, God is always with me.
A question that I have been asked repeatedly this summer by friends, family and neighbors is "What's next? After college, do you know what you want to do?" I often wonder about the paths in my life. If I choose to take Path A, will I ever be found wandering on Path B? And if I choose Path B, will Path A be forever washed away from my life?
College is a time of exploration but more than that, it is a time of identity. Of finding out who you really are. Of discovering life from your very own eyes; a life that no one else can experience except you.
This summer, my identity has been found in God. I have been following the Spirit's leading in my life. To obey this "pushing" as I have come to call it, is new for me. The experiences have taken me places and caused me to grow in my faith. I guess you could say that my faith has become "simple." A faith honestly searching for God in the everyday brokenness of society; a faith that seeks to be the selfless love that Jesus calls us to inhabit; a faith that is not satisfied with being the same everyday but different. My God has shown me (oftentimes bluntly) that it is His purposes that matter in the world. When I begin to encompass his desires as my own, my life starts to make sense. I have found that it may not make sense to the world; in fact it probably looks ridiculous, but it makes sense to God and to me. I have faced challenges in this continuous journey, but more importantly, my God has always been there for me. He has not left when I have messed up or fallen short. In fact, he has picked me up and embraced me as a young daughter of his own. To be held by an everlasting father who knows you (literally) from the inside out, leaves me awestruck.
Openly sharing my faith has also been a new journey for me. For years, I have kept my relationship with God very private. Until now, he has shown me that through community, brings restoration and discipleship. Through community we begin to learn more about ourselves and each other and the world than we ever would begin to understand by ourselves. God is not impressed by a "pharisee" kind of faith. A life that preaches loudly from street corners and condemns those who do not conform to their ways. The faith that he has been placing on me this summer has been that of someone different. The Bible tells of a story of a widow who gives her last coin (literally, all of the money that she had left) to God. The religious elite were like those writing checks in today's society and thinking nothing of the poor. But, it is this woman who captures God's attention and brings healing to her life. I long to be this widow, so poor and destitute, that God calls her by her name. No longer is she characterized by these untrue stereotypes but her heart for God's kingdom is revealed in plain sight.
This woman is an inspiration to me and I hope, an inspiration to all of you reading this. I am not perfect, but I am slowly learning how to trust God with every area of my life. This brings about many new challenges and sometimes paths do intersect. But, I take comfort in knowing that regardless of the path I find myself walking barefoot on, God is always with me.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Pure
A friend once said:
"a glass can only spill what it actually contains."
I believe that this is the kind of commitment and sacrifice and love that Jesus asks of all of his followers. I believe that this is exactly what Jesus did and accomplished on the cross. I also believe that everyone (whether you identify as a follower of Jesus or not) is called to lay themselves down for someone else. We all have had experiences (or are having them now) that require us to put our neighbor's needs before our own. And sometimes, that is uncomfortable and/or exciting.
Jesus calls us to live such a life daily. He gets no extra fees and this choice comes without any gimmicks. This self-less life is often overlooked as "too good to be true." Similliar to those informercials that say if you buy this product in the next 90 seconds, your life will be great! But, Jesus is not an advertisement running across the television screen or a billboard on the highway. He is not absent from our lives only to be called upon when we are in desperate need. He is active and living today and everyday. He is all around us, through us and in us.
His life is like that of a glass cup. But, I think that the deeper part comes down to this: "What's in your cup?" Because if we can really get to the meaning behind the truth, then we have come to understanding. Before you pour the liquid into your cup, do you read the ingredients list on the back of the can or bottle? Are you filling up on just sugar and chemicals and preservatives? Or is it all natural? Is it made from real things in the environment? Does the nutrition label say: "made with grace, peace, forgiveness and love"?
When you finally pour that liquid into the glass, what does that substance say about you? About your life? Whatever you choose to quench your thirst is a direct reflection of you.
And when your glass is knocked over, (either planned or not) what flows out? Does the liquid bring forth help and healing or does it choke up anger and resentment?
Truthfully, I think that we all have a little Splenda in our drink. But, what does it take for us/me/you to work to make it pure? To be nothing but "all natural"?
You know how some waters (like Aquafina) say: "contains: water and salt"? How can water be anything but water? Why do we find the need to always enhance the flavor that is already so rich? In the same way, why do we all feel the need to enhance our lives with additional items and artificial ingredients?
Why do we do this?
I think that one of the many answers is that we feel uncomfortable being ourselves. We don't relish the opportunity of showing people our true selves. Our identity (whatever you find yourself immersed in) greatly impacts others. We never know how much we really impact a fellow human being (either positively or negatively). Our lives are always on display. They are a showcase. If we really examine the ways in which we live and it reveals that we are not comfortable with ourselves, then how will we ever be able to counsul and help others? If Christians are not able to find their sole purpose and satisfaction of new life in Christ, how will their friends know that there is another way to live apart from the sweeteners?
I also believe that another reason we enhance our drink with man-made materials is that we are afraid of making mistakes. We need to come to terms with the fact that as humans, we are not always going to get it right. It's important to learn from our mistakes so that we can become better stewards of our world and help others not to make the same ones that we did. Mistakes are one of life's learning tools. I'm not saying to go out and fill up on caffeine but what I am saying is that we are constantly reminded that through every fall, stumble and trip we acknowledge that we can't get through life on our own. Life is not supposed to be an independent journey. Humans were made for relationships and to experience and be dependent to the extent that it helps us not hurt us.
For those who identify as followers of Jesus, may he teach us how to be dependent on Him; to know that we are partners on life's journey. For those who may not profess to be followers of Jesus, may we begin to understand and take comfort in knowing that though all of us long for an artifical sweetener to add flavor to our drink, may we begin the process (however that may look for you personally) of removing this unncessary addition to making our drink pure.
Copyright July 2010: Alex
"a glass can only spill what it actually contains."
I believe that this is the kind of commitment and sacrifice and love that Jesus asks of all of his followers. I believe that this is exactly what Jesus did and accomplished on the cross. I also believe that everyone (whether you identify as a follower of Jesus or not) is called to lay themselves down for someone else. We all have had experiences (or are having them now) that require us to put our neighbor's needs before our own. And sometimes, that is uncomfortable and/or exciting.
Jesus calls us to live such a life daily. He gets no extra fees and this choice comes without any gimmicks. This self-less life is often overlooked as "too good to be true." Similliar to those informercials that say if you buy this product in the next 90 seconds, your life will be great! But, Jesus is not an advertisement running across the television screen or a billboard on the highway. He is not absent from our lives only to be called upon when we are in desperate need. He is active and living today and everyday. He is all around us, through us and in us.
His life is like that of a glass cup. But, I think that the deeper part comes down to this: "What's in your cup?" Because if we can really get to the meaning behind the truth, then we have come to understanding. Before you pour the liquid into your cup, do you read the ingredients list on the back of the can or bottle? Are you filling up on just sugar and chemicals and preservatives? Or is it all natural? Is it made from real things in the environment? Does the nutrition label say: "made with grace, peace, forgiveness and love"?
When you finally pour that liquid into the glass, what does that substance say about you? About your life? Whatever you choose to quench your thirst is a direct reflection of you.
And when your glass is knocked over, (either planned or not) what flows out? Does the liquid bring forth help and healing or does it choke up anger and resentment?
Truthfully, I think that we all have a little Splenda in our drink. But, what does it take for us/me/you to work to make it pure? To be nothing but "all natural"?
You know how some waters (like Aquafina) say: "contains: water and salt"? How can water be anything but water? Why do we find the need to always enhance the flavor that is already so rich? In the same way, why do we all feel the need to enhance our lives with additional items and artificial ingredients?
Why do we do this?
I think that one of the many answers is that we feel uncomfortable being ourselves. We don't relish the opportunity of showing people our true selves. Our identity (whatever you find yourself immersed in) greatly impacts others. We never know how much we really impact a fellow human being (either positively or negatively). Our lives are always on display. They are a showcase. If we really examine the ways in which we live and it reveals that we are not comfortable with ourselves, then how will we ever be able to counsul and help others? If Christians are not able to find their sole purpose and satisfaction of new life in Christ, how will their friends know that there is another way to live apart from the sweeteners?
I also believe that another reason we enhance our drink with man-made materials is that we are afraid of making mistakes. We need to come to terms with the fact that as humans, we are not always going to get it right. It's important to learn from our mistakes so that we can become better stewards of our world and help others not to make the same ones that we did. Mistakes are one of life's learning tools. I'm not saying to go out and fill up on caffeine but what I am saying is that we are constantly reminded that through every fall, stumble and trip we acknowledge that we can't get through life on our own. Life is not supposed to be an independent journey. Humans were made for relationships and to experience and be dependent to the extent that it helps us not hurt us.
For those who identify as followers of Jesus, may he teach us how to be dependent on Him; to know that we are partners on life's journey. For those who may not profess to be followers of Jesus, may we begin to understand and take comfort in knowing that though all of us long for an artifical sweetener to add flavor to our drink, may we begin the process (however that may look for you personally) of removing this unncessary addition to making our drink pure.
Copyright July 2010: Alex
Sunday, July 11, 2010
"because he loves me"
I came across this poem in the Providence Sunday Journal today and wanted to share it with you.
"our father who art in heaven"
he comes back
to the family now
with a vengeance
that seems odd
even to me,
the Queen of
never let them forget.
what could he
possibly hope to achieve
by arriving at the door
twenty some odd
many years
too late.
he offers us
a loaf of bread
telling us how long
he kneaded it,
and let it rise
until he knew it had
become
perfection.
he picked
the grapes from
his garden, where
they were grown
with optimism
and great faith.
tells us
all he is looking for
is one last meal
with his children,
a place to rest his head.
surely we could grant him that.
our father,
-Lynnie Gobeille
[it really spoke to me today. i also see some spiritual allusions...not sure if the poet intended them to be there, but they are.]
"our father who art in heaven"
he comes back
to the family now
with a vengeance
that seems odd
even to me,
the Queen of
never let them forget.
what could he
possibly hope to achieve
by arriving at the door
twenty some odd
many years
too late.
he offers us
a loaf of bread
telling us how long
he kneaded it,
and let it rise
until he knew it had
become
perfection.
he picked
the grapes from
his garden, where
they were grown
with optimism
and great faith.
tells us
all he is looking for
is one last meal
with his children,
a place to rest his head.
surely we could grant him that.
our father,
-Lynnie Gobeille
[it really spoke to me today. i also see some spiritual allusions...not sure if the poet intended them to be there, but they are.]
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
in love with Love
"Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps." - Psalm 85:13
"Guard my life, for I am devoted to you. You are my God; save your servant who trusts in you."
- Psalm 86:2
"Teach me your way, O Lord,
and I will walk in your truth;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear your name."
-Psalm 86: 11
/////////////
God has already prepared the way for me. Jesus and his disciples have already gone before me. One of the writers of the Bible talks about "running the race that is marked before us." So, why the worry? For my Father says: "Do not worry." God has taken care of it all. He has provided for the birds and thus has provided an endless bounty for me. I keep on coming back to this passage in Luke 12:22-34. Verse 33 says to "sell your possessions and give to the poor." Poverty is more than a lack of material riches, homelessness and hunger. From personal experience, I know that there are people who are poor and look as if they have it all together. Poverty wears many different masks. Love wears none. True love is naked, exposed and vulnerable. The epitome of love is Jesus. The epitome of that love is God. The Holy Spirit lives inside us to make this love personal, alive and real. It's tangibility is evident everywhere, even in the most broken of places.
..."for where your treasure is, there your heart will also be." (verse 34).
If my heart is on the things that God desires and I am moving and listening and seeking his advice from older Christians in the faith, then I know in my heart that God has it {my fears, concerns, worries, uncertainties} worked out.
Jeremiah 29:11 says:
"For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord; plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."
Now, I know that verses such as these can be taken out of context if not read carefully; but for me, today, this comforting verse lets me know that just like I am devoted to God with my life, my spiritual purity and his purpose for me, I know that God is devoted to me. For my heart and my mind are on the things of God and though I get stuck in a rut sometimes, I am aware of my identity in Christ. I know that I am loved. When I come back to his word I am constantly brought closer to my only lover and Father. My reflection is in him and he is in me.
"Guard my life, for I am devoted to you. You are my God; save your servant who trusts in you."
- Psalm 86:2
"Teach me your way, O Lord,
and I will walk in your truth;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear your name."
-Psalm 86: 11
/////////////
God has already prepared the way for me. Jesus and his disciples have already gone before me. One of the writers of the Bible talks about "running the race that is marked before us." So, why the worry? For my Father says: "Do not worry." God has taken care of it all. He has provided for the birds and thus has provided an endless bounty for me. I keep on coming back to this passage in Luke 12:22-34. Verse 33 says to "sell your possessions and give to the poor." Poverty is more than a lack of material riches, homelessness and hunger. From personal experience, I know that there are people who are poor and look as if they have it all together. Poverty wears many different masks. Love wears none. True love is naked, exposed and vulnerable. The epitome of love is Jesus. The epitome of that love is God. The Holy Spirit lives inside us to make this love personal, alive and real. It's tangibility is evident everywhere, even in the most broken of places.
..."for where your treasure is, there your heart will also be." (verse 34).
If my heart is on the things that God desires and I am moving and listening and seeking his advice from older Christians in the faith, then I know in my heart that God has it {my fears, concerns, worries, uncertainties} worked out.
Jeremiah 29:11 says:
"For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord; plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."
Now, I know that verses such as these can be taken out of context if not read carefully; but for me, today, this comforting verse lets me know that just like I am devoted to God with my life, my spiritual purity and his purpose for me, I know that God is devoted to me. For my heart and my mind are on the things of God and though I get stuck in a rut sometimes, I am aware of my identity in Christ. I know that I am loved. When I come back to his word I am constantly brought closer to my only lover and Father. My reflection is in him and he is in me.
Monday, July 5, 2010
poor in spirit
"The deeper we grow in the Spirit of Jesus Christ, the poorer we become-the more we realize that everything in life is a gift" (The Ragamuffin Gospel, Brennan Manning, page 81).
Sunday, July 4, 2010
far beyond the vow of "i do"
"To have the mind of Christ Jesus, to think his thoughts, share his ideals, dream his dreams, throb with his desires, replace our natural responses to persons and situations with the concern of Jesus, and make the mindset of Christ so completely our own that "the life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" is not the secret of or shortcut to transparency. It is transparency" (Manning 38).
- it is a laying down of our own wants and needs and picking up Christ's wants and needs. It is humbly accepting a new perspective; a way of life completely different than mine. This new life that Christ offers is a daily struggle; it is not easy but it is worth it. a complete surrender to one person far surpasses my detailed map of life.
"Christianity, then, comprises more than involvement in human rights struggles, environmental causes, or peace programs. Fullness of life in the Spirit is more than finding Christ in others and serving him there. It is a summons to personal holiness, ongoing conversion, and new creation through union with Christ Jesus" (Manning 53).
- Living for Christ is work. i can never be perfected through actions and works if my heart and mind are not aligned with Christ's. If my desires become so weighty that they take precedence over God's than I have created a fictional character. Only a daily commitment and a lifetime of devotion to Jesus with our lives, our souls and our hearts will help to change our world that is governed by fear to a world passionately in love with its creator.
~ the above quotes came from Brennan Manning's book, The Importance of Being Foolish
- it is a laying down of our own wants and needs and picking up Christ's wants and needs. It is humbly accepting a new perspective; a way of life completely different than mine. This new life that Christ offers is a daily struggle; it is not easy but it is worth it. a complete surrender to one person far surpasses my detailed map of life.
"Christianity, then, comprises more than involvement in human rights struggles, environmental causes, or peace programs. Fullness of life in the Spirit is more than finding Christ in others and serving him there. It is a summons to personal holiness, ongoing conversion, and new creation through union with Christ Jesus" (Manning 53).
- Living for Christ is work. i can never be perfected through actions and works if my heart and mind are not aligned with Christ's. If my desires become so weighty that they take precedence over God's than I have created a fictional character. Only a daily commitment and a lifetime of devotion to Jesus with our lives, our souls and our hearts will help to change our world that is governed by fear to a world passionately in love with its creator.
~ the above quotes came from Brennan Manning's book, The Importance of Being Foolish
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
You
i want nothing more than knowing God.
nothing less than his mystery and
nothing more than what is his truest identity.
i want nothing more than knowing God.
i want to be drawn so close to him that I can
hear his breath
i want to feel his fingers run through my hair
and have him prune my life;
however that may look or feel.
i want nothing more than knowing God.
for his concern is not appearance but rather
heart.
rip my heart out of my chest and examine it under a microscope.
use your magnifying glass to see if there is any unworthy way in me.
teach me how to "let go"
making me become exactly how my Father saw me from the womb.
creation made a choice,
and though i may not make the correct or sensible move everytime,
teach me how to be humble.
show me ways in which i can express, receive and demonstrate humility.
show me ways in which i can love backwards.
for love isn't always forwards.
love isn't just a kiss and then a pulling away.
the love of God is so much more.
it is truly the love that lasts after the kiss and
penetrates the heart.
i want nothing more than knowing God.
nothing less than his mystery and
nothing more than what is his truest identity.
i want nothing more than knowing God.
i want to be drawn so close to him that I can
hear his breath
i want to feel his fingers run through my hair
and have him prune my life;
however that may look or feel.
i want nothing more than knowing God.
for his concern is not appearance but rather
heart.
rip my heart out of my chest and examine it under a microscope.
use your magnifying glass to see if there is any unworthy way in me.
teach me how to "let go"
making me become exactly how my Father saw me from the womb.
creation made a choice,
and though i may not make the correct or sensible move everytime,
teach me how to be humble.
show me ways in which i can express, receive and demonstrate humility.
show me ways in which i can love backwards.
for love isn't always forwards.
love isn't just a kiss and then a pulling away.
the love of God is so much more.
it is truly the love that lasts after the kiss and
penetrates the heart.
i want nothing more than knowing God.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
to be alone with me (us)
This morning, I woke up with the chorus of a song in my head:
"To be alone with me
To be alone with me
To be alone with me
You went up on a tree."
Last night I was worried about a lot of things that are ultimately out of my control. I was driving to meet a friend and the "what if's" started to knock on my door. I tell my friends that the "what if's" will destroy but until you experience the battle, it becomes a mere phrase that covers a large wound.
As I turned the corner of my street just before the highway, I caught sight of something absolutely spectacular. A sunset. I was completely in awe of such beauty. The shades of blues, yellows and whites were intricately woven together across the horizon of the skyline. It was a picture that no painter could have ever produced. Creation was the author.
In this moment, I was reminded that God is in control. It is not by my doing that the sunset was beautifully formed or that the grass turned green. No. I cannot do these extraordinary things that are so simple for God to do. Instead, I stand as a breathless child who experiences a rainbow for the first time.
Last night, I was mesmerized by such indescribable beauty and comforted by the truth that it's ok. It's quite all right that I do not possess nor have all the answers to all the questions that tumble around in my mind. It's quite all right that I may not know exactly what happens today, tomorrow or ten years from now. For when I get worried and long for unending assurance, God wraps me in a hug. The kind of hug that a mother gives to her child after she falls and scrapes her knee. Or when a guy and girl who are in love just sit and gaze at each other, each equally lost in the amazement that they could be loved by someone. God gives us this universal hug that crosses all bridges in order for us to give that love to someone else. His beauty is nature, his face is found in the homeless and his heart is nailed up on the cross for all to see. We can choose to walk by the human statue or stop, take it in, and ask "what then shall I do?"
"To be alone with me
To be alone with me
To be alone with me
You went up on a tree."
Last night I was worried about a lot of things that are ultimately out of my control. I was driving to meet a friend and the "what if's" started to knock on my door. I tell my friends that the "what if's" will destroy but until you experience the battle, it becomes a mere phrase that covers a large wound.
As I turned the corner of my street just before the highway, I caught sight of something absolutely spectacular. A sunset. I was completely in awe of such beauty. The shades of blues, yellows and whites were intricately woven together across the horizon of the skyline. It was a picture that no painter could have ever produced. Creation was the author.
In this moment, I was reminded that God is in control. It is not by my doing that the sunset was beautifully formed or that the grass turned green. No. I cannot do these extraordinary things that are so simple for God to do. Instead, I stand as a breathless child who experiences a rainbow for the first time.
Last night, I was mesmerized by such indescribable beauty and comforted by the truth that it's ok. It's quite all right that I do not possess nor have all the answers to all the questions that tumble around in my mind. It's quite all right that I may not know exactly what happens today, tomorrow or ten years from now. For when I get worried and long for unending assurance, God wraps me in a hug. The kind of hug that a mother gives to her child after she falls and scrapes her knee. Or when a guy and girl who are in love just sit and gaze at each other, each equally lost in the amazement that they could be loved by someone. God gives us this universal hug that crosses all bridges in order for us to give that love to someone else. His beauty is nature, his face is found in the homeless and his heart is nailed up on the cross for all to see. We can choose to walk by the human statue or stop, take it in, and ask "what then shall I do?"
Friday, June 25, 2010
empty my cup
In his book, The Importance of Being Foolish, writer Brennan Manning describes the love of Jesus as "kenosis - a total self-emptying." I could go on and on with examples and my own interpretation of what this kind of love is, but the fact of the matter is that if I do indeed do this, then I/we lose all understanding of Jesus' love. Therefore, in order to find out exactly what kenosis is, we must look at examples from the Bible in order to even begin to grasp such a foreign concept.
Many instances that Jesus had with his followers describe this kind of self-giving self-sacrifical love. I will only refer to a few of them. First, Jesus encounters a woman who was going to be stoned. This instance reminds me of a bunch of cats circling around a little mouse. Obviously, the mouse has nowhere to hide and is bound to be dinner for the intruding felines. In a similiar way, a group of men wanted to stone a woman. Jesus comes in and says: "Whoever is without sin, may you cast the first stone." Jesus completely revealed himself to the men and the woman by allowing his true nature to be exposed. He dealt with a conflicting situation with words rather than with violence. Jesus put himself out there for another person. He not only interacted with women who were considered lowly and without importance, but he treated both sexes with care and unbelievable compassion.
A second encounter worth mentioning is when Jesus heals the man born blind. Imagine being born without sight and a man comes up to you and puts mud on your eyes. In an instant, you are healed. Here, Jesus heals with a simple touch. Yet, this touch goes far beyond the physical healing of sight that this man longed for. This encounter was an expression of the Father's love through his son Jesus; a love that looked beyond social status, class, income, career, family, health, etc. straight to the heart of the person. Jesus had this innate ability to have compassion for anyone that he came into contact with. Jesus was able to look at a person and see a reflection of himself.
Which leads me to my third example. The one that is probably the most cliche of all in our culture yet the one loaded with meaning and significance. Jesus' crucifixion. Aside from the symboliism that the Gospel writers use to describe Jesus' death, the love, the kenosis, is found here. It is found in the blood that Jesus shed, in the words that he uttered, in the way that he lived his life not for himself, but for other people. Jesus was not a force to be reckoned with. He was a human with feelings, passions, desires, hopes and dreams just like all of us. He longed to be held, to be touched, to be told those three simple words that young lovers tell each other: "I love you."
So, how do we live the kenosis kind of love? It's not a simple, three step process. It is a daily reminder that without God, I cannot live this way on my own. It is a daily reminder that his grace is free and that I can do nothing to earn his gift of salvation. It is accepting that his death is already completed, and yet, it is a daily dying to myself; laying down the mindset that "It's my way." It's an outpouring of love that knows no limits and goes to the ends of the earth for a friend. It's a love that is a constant reminder of humility. It is a love that is similiar to that of an expecting mother. She loves her child though she has not seen him/her yet. As one of the writers in the Bible says: "You knew me before I was born. You knit me together in my mother's womb." It's loving another person not because of their college degree or lack thereof; its looking at a person, feeling that tug in your heart and seeing yourself in them.
That's the kind of kenosis love that Jesus gave.
For me, it is a daily struggle to love this way. It's giving up my impulses in order to see another fellow neighbor rise in the sunlight. By myself, its impossible to do this. But with God, I know its possible because everyday, I am experiencing a little bit more of this love that Jesus so often displayed and talked about. It is this love that is one of the two greatest commandments: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul and mind and love your neighbor as yourself." You can't have one without the other. You can't say that you love God and hate your neighbor (or visa - vis.) They are, indeed, mutually exclusive.
I'll leave you with one last thought from the Bible.
"Greater love has no one than this that he lay down his life for his friends."
Imagine if we all loved in this way.
How different would our world be?
Many instances that Jesus had with his followers describe this kind of self-giving self-sacrifical love. I will only refer to a few of them. First, Jesus encounters a woman who was going to be stoned. This instance reminds me of a bunch of cats circling around a little mouse. Obviously, the mouse has nowhere to hide and is bound to be dinner for the intruding felines. In a similiar way, a group of men wanted to stone a woman. Jesus comes in and says: "Whoever is without sin, may you cast the first stone." Jesus completely revealed himself to the men and the woman by allowing his true nature to be exposed. He dealt with a conflicting situation with words rather than with violence. Jesus put himself out there for another person. He not only interacted with women who were considered lowly and without importance, but he treated both sexes with care and unbelievable compassion.
A second encounter worth mentioning is when Jesus heals the man born blind. Imagine being born without sight and a man comes up to you and puts mud on your eyes. In an instant, you are healed. Here, Jesus heals with a simple touch. Yet, this touch goes far beyond the physical healing of sight that this man longed for. This encounter was an expression of the Father's love through his son Jesus; a love that looked beyond social status, class, income, career, family, health, etc. straight to the heart of the person. Jesus had this innate ability to have compassion for anyone that he came into contact with. Jesus was able to look at a person and see a reflection of himself.
Which leads me to my third example. The one that is probably the most cliche of all in our culture yet the one loaded with meaning and significance. Jesus' crucifixion. Aside from the symboliism that the Gospel writers use to describe Jesus' death, the love, the kenosis, is found here. It is found in the blood that Jesus shed, in the words that he uttered, in the way that he lived his life not for himself, but for other people. Jesus was not a force to be reckoned with. He was a human with feelings, passions, desires, hopes and dreams just like all of us. He longed to be held, to be touched, to be told those three simple words that young lovers tell each other: "I love you."
So, how do we live the kenosis kind of love? It's not a simple, three step process. It is a daily reminder that without God, I cannot live this way on my own. It is a daily reminder that his grace is free and that I can do nothing to earn his gift of salvation. It is accepting that his death is already completed, and yet, it is a daily dying to myself; laying down the mindset that "It's my way." It's an outpouring of love that knows no limits and goes to the ends of the earth for a friend. It's a love that is a constant reminder of humility. It is a love that is similiar to that of an expecting mother. She loves her child though she has not seen him/her yet. As one of the writers in the Bible says: "You knew me before I was born. You knit me together in my mother's womb." It's loving another person not because of their college degree or lack thereof; its looking at a person, feeling that tug in your heart and seeing yourself in them.
That's the kind of kenosis love that Jesus gave.
For me, it is a daily struggle to love this way. It's giving up my impulses in order to see another fellow neighbor rise in the sunlight. By myself, its impossible to do this. But with God, I know its possible because everyday, I am experiencing a little bit more of this love that Jesus so often displayed and talked about. It is this love that is one of the two greatest commandments: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul and mind and love your neighbor as yourself." You can't have one without the other. You can't say that you love God and hate your neighbor (or visa - vis.) They are, indeed, mutually exclusive.
I'll leave you with one last thought from the Bible.
"Greater love has no one than this that he lay down his life for his friends."
Imagine if we all loved in this way.
How different would our world be?
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
One World, One People
Even in the turmoil, God is at work.
Today, I picked up a book called Six Months in Sudan. Written by Dr. James Maskalyk, he tells of his journey to Sudan working with Doctors Without Borders. I have begun reading it and I encourage all of you to read it, too. His blog inspired this book. Check it out at http://www.sixmonthsinsudan.com/.
Despite the oppression, wars and disease there are people who are making a difference. Someday, I hope to serve as this man and many of my friends who are doing. Hats off to those serving here in the U.S. and around the world. To those serving in the army, on college campuses, in teaching children and in many other ways too numerous and beautiful to name, thank you for all that you do. You have impacted me and changed my life in extraordinary ways.
Today, I picked up a book called Six Months in Sudan. Written by Dr. James Maskalyk, he tells of his journey to Sudan working with Doctors Without Borders. I have begun reading it and I encourage all of you to read it, too. His blog inspired this book. Check it out at http://www.sixmonthsinsudan.com/.
Despite the oppression, wars and disease there are people who are making a difference. Someday, I hope to serve as this man and many of my friends who are doing. Hats off to those serving here in the U.S. and around the world. To those serving in the army, on college campuses, in teaching children and in many other ways too numerous and beautiful to name, thank you for all that you do. You have impacted me and changed my life in extraordinary ways.
Monday, June 21, 2010
a barefoot God
My heart is changing.
I know that is an unusual way to begin a sentence, but it is true. Often, I look inwardly, tending to my own house without taking a moment to look out the window. There is so much happening beyond the walls of my home. I take pride in making the kitchen, bathroom, living room, and bedroom look presentable. In some ways, I feel as though I am stuck in the 1920s, an era when women stayed home to care for the children and fulfill household chores. I am beginning to realize that if I embody such a lifestyle for myself, I will miss the delight of looking out my window.
You see, there is something spectacular about opening the door of my home to sit outside. There is something right about lying barefoot on the grass and watching the clouds pass by. This is my picture of the "perfect day." This is how I imagine God spending time with me. Lying next to me on the grass, looking up at the sky, oblivious of time, yet holding time in itself. Our lives revolve around scheduling whether its transporting our kids to their soccer practice, having lunch with the in-laws, or planning a wedding. Yet, God is teaching me to not rely on a schedule where I know what's coming in the next 5 minutes, in the next hour, in the next day or even in the next week. He's teaching me to rely on no schedule at all.
God speaks many times in the Bible about "community." But, there are times (even in the scheduling) where he calls me to "get away."
I recently saw the movie, "The Karate Kid." I'm not one for plots that involve fighting but there was something about the movie previews that intrigued me. In one part of the movie, Dre Parker (played by Will Smith's son Jaden Smith) asks Mr. Hun (Jackie Chan), "Are we going to train today?" Mr. Hun says "No." And twelve-year old Dre asks "Why?" Mr. Hun says "Because too much of something can be a bad thing."
Really? "Too much of something can be a bad thing?" Well, if I eat too much ice cream, or watch too much television, or stay up too late on the computer, then yes, too much of something is bad. We all need a break. In Pslam 23, David (the psalmist) paints this picture of God as a Shepherd. He writes that God will always be with us "even though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death." I leave you with Psalm 23 and ask you to answer this question, Is God your Shepherd today?
"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he lead me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
You don't always have to walk with your shoes on. Sometimes, God is completely content going barefoot; hangin' out beside you on the grass, staring up at the clouds as they effortlessly pass by.
I know that is an unusual way to begin a sentence, but it is true. Often, I look inwardly, tending to my own house without taking a moment to look out the window. There is so much happening beyond the walls of my home. I take pride in making the kitchen, bathroom, living room, and bedroom look presentable. In some ways, I feel as though I am stuck in the 1920s, an era when women stayed home to care for the children and fulfill household chores. I am beginning to realize that if I embody such a lifestyle for myself, I will miss the delight of looking out my window.
You see, there is something spectacular about opening the door of my home to sit outside. There is something right about lying barefoot on the grass and watching the clouds pass by. This is my picture of the "perfect day." This is how I imagine God spending time with me. Lying next to me on the grass, looking up at the sky, oblivious of time, yet holding time in itself. Our lives revolve around scheduling whether its transporting our kids to their soccer practice, having lunch with the in-laws, or planning a wedding. Yet, God is teaching me to not rely on a schedule where I know what's coming in the next 5 minutes, in the next hour, in the next day or even in the next week. He's teaching me to rely on no schedule at all.
God speaks many times in the Bible about "community." But, there are times (even in the scheduling) where he calls me to "get away."
I recently saw the movie, "The Karate Kid." I'm not one for plots that involve fighting but there was something about the movie previews that intrigued me. In one part of the movie, Dre Parker (played by Will Smith's son Jaden Smith) asks Mr. Hun (Jackie Chan), "Are we going to train today?" Mr. Hun says "No." And twelve-year old Dre asks "Why?" Mr. Hun says "Because too much of something can be a bad thing."
Really? "Too much of something can be a bad thing?" Well, if I eat too much ice cream, or watch too much television, or stay up too late on the computer, then yes, too much of something is bad. We all need a break. In Pslam 23, David (the psalmist) paints this picture of God as a Shepherd. He writes that God will always be with us "even though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death." I leave you with Psalm 23 and ask you to answer this question, Is God your Shepherd today?
"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he lead me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
You don't always have to walk with your shoes on. Sometimes, God is completely content going barefoot; hangin' out beside you on the grass, staring up at the clouds as they effortlessly pass by.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
I Am His
"Lord, take my heart,
for I cannot give it to you.
And when you have it,
keep it.
For I would not take it from you."
- Francois Fenelon
for I cannot give it to you.
And when you have it,
keep it.
For I would not take it from you."
- Francois Fenelon
Monday, June 7, 2010
Thoughts on Life
I recently received this from a friend and wanted to share it with you in the hopes that you will share it with others.
_____________________
We never get what we want,
We never want what we get,
We never have what we like,
We never like what we have.
And still we live & love.
That's life...
The best kind of people,
Is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with,
Never say a word,
And then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had.
It's true that we don't know
What we've got until it's gone,
But it's also true that we don't know
What we've been missing until it arrives.
Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they'll love you back!
Don't expect love in return;
Just wait for it to grow in their heart,
But if it doesn't, be content it grew in yours.
It takes only a minute to get a crush on someone,
An hour to like someone,
And a day to love someone,
But it takes a lifetime to forget someone.
Don't go for looks; they can deceive.
Don't go for wealth; even that fades away.
Go for someone who makes you smile,
Because it takes only a smile to make a dark day seems bright.
Find the one that makes your heart smile!
May you have enough happiness to make you sweet,
Enough trials to make you strong,
Enough sorrow to keep you human,
And enough hope to make you happy.
Always put yourself in others' shoes.
If you feel that it hurts you,
It probably hurts the other person, too.
The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything;
They just make the most of everything that comes along their way.
Happiness lies for
Those who cry,
Those who hurt,
Those who have searched,
And those who have tried,
For only they can appreciate the importance of people
Who have touched their lives.
When you were born, you were crying
And everyone around you was smiling.
Live your life so that when you die,
You're the one who is smiling
And everyone around you is crying.
""There are those who work all day.
Those who dream all day.
And those who dream for an hour
before working to fulfill those dreams."”
_____________________
We never get what we want,
We never want what we get,
We never have what we like,
We never like what we have.
And still we live & love.
That's life...
The best kind of people,
Is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with,
Never say a word,
And then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had.
It's true that we don't know
What we've got until it's gone,
But it's also true that we don't know
What we've been missing until it arrives.
Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they'll love you back!
Don't expect love in return;
Just wait for it to grow in their heart,
But if it doesn't, be content it grew in yours.
It takes only a minute to get a crush on someone,
An hour to like someone,
And a day to love someone,
But it takes a lifetime to forget someone.
Don't go for looks; they can deceive.
Don't go for wealth; even that fades away.
Go for someone who makes you smile,
Because it takes only a smile to make a dark day seems bright.
Find the one that makes your heart smile!
May you have enough happiness to make you sweet,
Enough trials to make you strong,
Enough sorrow to keep you human,
And enough hope to make you happy.
Always put yourself in others' shoes.
If you feel that it hurts you,
It probably hurts the other person, too.
The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything;
They just make the most of everything that comes along their way.
Happiness lies for
Those who cry,
Those who hurt,
Those who have searched,
And those who have tried,
For only they can appreciate the importance of people
Who have touched their lives.
When you were born, you were crying
And everyone around you was smiling.
Live your life so that when you die,
You're the one who is smiling
And everyone around you is crying.
""There are those who work all day.
Those who dream all day.
And those who dream for an hour
before working to fulfill those dreams."”
Saturday, June 5, 2010
"The Furious Love of God"
"My deepest awareness of myself is that I am deeply loved by Jesus Christ and I have done nothing to earn it or deserve it."
~ The Ragamuffin Gospel
Brennan Manning
(p. 25)
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Release Me
Lately, I have been learning about humility and sacrifice.
To be humble is more than just relinquishing power and fulfilling the requests of another individual. Humility is asking to honestly see life from a perspective different than yours. Humility doesn't ask "What can I do?" but rather "What does God require of me?" A humble person is one who goes the extra mile for a neighbor; not because he/she has to or it is the right thing to do but because its a lifestyle. Humility does the ridiculous for a friend, a stranger, an enemy.
A person who expresses humility looks in the eyes of a person and sees Jesus. Lord, I want to see your reflection not in the pond as a wrinkled and temporary shadow, but as a real person with flesh and blood, breath and desire staring back at me. May the mirror be a mosaic of you and your people. Teach me how to walk barefoot with humility everyday. Show me your blisters so that I may begin to understand how to truly love. Let me experience your blisters. Show me what it is like to "love until it hurts." Teach me how to live with less and show me that it is more than I need.
Humility begets sacrifice. Sacrifice does not merely give people things; sacrifice literally gives up the needs of ourselves for someone else.
An example of sacrifice that I am constantly reminded of is that of Abraham and Issac. Here is the true story of a father, Abraham, who responds to God's call to sacrifice his son, Issac. Yet, right when Abraham is standing over his son, he hears the voice of the Lord beckoning him to stop. God not only saw his humility and sacrifice but recognized that his heart was aligned with God's. This test drew Abraham and God closer together, allowed Abraham to see the soverignity of God's rule, and let Abraham put the needs of his son first.
Truthfully, I don't know if I could sacrifice my only child. However, I think that sacrifice comes in ways that we may not expect. In his book, The Challenge of Jesus, N.T. Wright describes the "kingdom of God." Historical research shows that the Jews were not expecting the kingdom of God nor the return from their exile to manifest in the way that it did. Sometimes our view of humility and sacrifice may be quite different than what god had in mind.
Give me the ability to surrender my daily life to you, so that your will is fully exposed as raw and true, loving and beautiful.
To be humble is more than just relinquishing power and fulfilling the requests of another individual. Humility is asking to honestly see life from a perspective different than yours. Humility doesn't ask "What can I do?" but rather "What does God require of me?" A humble person is one who goes the extra mile for a neighbor; not because he/she has to or it is the right thing to do but because its a lifestyle. Humility does the ridiculous for a friend, a stranger, an enemy.
A person who expresses humility looks in the eyes of a person and sees Jesus. Lord, I want to see your reflection not in the pond as a wrinkled and temporary shadow, but as a real person with flesh and blood, breath and desire staring back at me. May the mirror be a mosaic of you and your people. Teach me how to walk barefoot with humility everyday. Show me your blisters so that I may begin to understand how to truly love. Let me experience your blisters. Show me what it is like to "love until it hurts." Teach me how to live with less and show me that it is more than I need.
Humility begets sacrifice. Sacrifice does not merely give people things; sacrifice literally gives up the needs of ourselves for someone else.
An example of sacrifice that I am constantly reminded of is that of Abraham and Issac. Here is the true story of a father, Abraham, who responds to God's call to sacrifice his son, Issac. Yet, right when Abraham is standing over his son, he hears the voice of the Lord beckoning him to stop. God not only saw his humility and sacrifice but recognized that his heart was aligned with God's. This test drew Abraham and God closer together, allowed Abraham to see the soverignity of God's rule, and let Abraham put the needs of his son first.
Truthfully, I don't know if I could sacrifice my only child. However, I think that sacrifice comes in ways that we may not expect. In his book, The Challenge of Jesus, N.T. Wright describes the "kingdom of God." Historical research shows that the Jews were not expecting the kingdom of God nor the return from their exile to manifest in the way that it did. Sometimes our view of humility and sacrifice may be quite different than what god had in mind.
Give me the ability to surrender my daily life to you, so that your will is fully exposed as raw and true, loving and beautiful.
Friday, May 28, 2010
swing girl
an empty swing hangs between two worn metal bars.
the wind is the only evidence that memories still remain.
eagerly, the girl climbs onto the black seat waiting for her father's protective hands to give her a firm push into the land of the unknown.
time transforms the child into a teenager
who no longer wants her father to push her
but would rather use her mud-streaked white sneakers to push herself.
observing this gift of independence, her father silently sits on the park bench to watch this youthful girl with long blonde hair pumping her feet into a big world.
graduations, marriages and children skip into and out of this woman's life.
this lonely swing still hangs motionless
waiting for his friend.
the swing that brought her joy and freedom as a child.
the metal rings feel cold on her wrinkled hands.
she swings back and forth with more effort though
that spirit for life still pumps blood to her heart.
she longs for someone to push her.
yet, when she looks behind her,
she sees only a shadow of man who once was.
(*an original poem written by alex)
the wind is the only evidence that memories still remain.
eagerly, the girl climbs onto the black seat waiting for her father's protective hands to give her a firm push into the land of the unknown.
time transforms the child into a teenager
who no longer wants her father to push her
but would rather use her mud-streaked white sneakers to push herself.
observing this gift of independence, her father silently sits on the park bench to watch this youthful girl with long blonde hair pumping her feet into a big world.
graduations, marriages and children skip into and out of this woman's life.
this lonely swing still hangs motionless
waiting for his friend.
the swing that brought her joy and freedom as a child.
the metal rings feel cold on her wrinkled hands.
she swings back and forth with more effort though
that spirit for life still pumps blood to her heart.
she longs for someone to push her.
yet, when she looks behind her,
she sees only a shadow of man who once was.
(*an original poem written by alex)
Friday, May 14, 2010
iris
a color that does not fade when the sun goes to sleep,
a color that remains for the whole world to see.
a color that remains for the whole world to see.
a color that confidently stands in the gray rainstorms
true to itself and to the one who created it.
a color that does not wonder "why" but rather "what is?"
a color that accepts differences and sows seeds of radical love.
a color who looks in the eyes of a friend, stranger or a child and
sees herself.
a color whose heart is burdened for the homeless and the poverty in our state, country and world.
a color who desperately longs to see our government wipe the tears of the oppressed away by passing the bill of "Love."
a color who stands out in the rain,
sponge soaked and wet with remorse for the hatred that has been done to her.
a color that looks the hurt in the eye and says:
"I forgive."
because sometimes, life is not always black and white.
sometimes, a little color is thrown in to the mix.
* a poem written by alex. (14 May 2010)
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
photograph
life is like a photograph.
the "captured moment" may appear self-explanatory but is it?
is there more going on that we don't know about, that we have left to uncover?
what are the people's emotions, what are they thinking about, how do they view life?
instead of looking at a photograph from the angle that i have been seeing it all along,
God has taken his hand and turned the picture around.
now, it is not my perspective that i view but His.
the "captured moment" may appear self-explanatory but is it?
is there more going on that we don't know about, that we have left to uncover?
what are the people's emotions, what are they thinking about, how do they view life?
instead of looking at a photograph from the angle that i have been seeing it all along,
God has taken his hand and turned the picture around.
now, it is not my perspective that i view but His.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Beauty: Is it Only Skin Deep or Is There Something More?
Some people can gain everything and have nothing.
Appearances don't always accurately describe a person's true feelings.
Materialistic items; popularity, wealth, the latest car, a huge diamond ring, $30,000 shoes, a mansion.
These items may look physically appealing but the truth is, they don't last.
What if the simple things were attractive?
Instead of the Mercedes capturing commercials, what if laughter did?
Happiness doesn't come in a bottle of pills.
People initiate hugs, emotions, compassion, love.
What if you picked up the newspaper to see a field or a row of trees on the front page?
Why is it that these things which bring us happiness are so often overlooked?
Could it be that our priorities are a little skewed? A little slanted?
Appearance is superificial.
A friend once told me this about marriage:
Imagine what your spouse or significant other will look like 20 years from now. Will he or she still be beautiful? Will their beauty always come from the inside or will they be constantly searching for beauty in the latest wrinkle cream?
Lord, help me to be satisfied with the simple. The chirping birds, the dog that barks, the baby who cries. Let me see with your eyes that these items reflect your nature. That they are meant to produce love and affection and wholeness and peace. Whenever I doubt your grace, let me know that I'm covered.
Appearances don't always accurately describe a person's true feelings.
Materialistic items; popularity, wealth, the latest car, a huge diamond ring, $30,000 shoes, a mansion.
These items may look physically appealing but the truth is, they don't last.
What if the simple things were attractive?
Instead of the Mercedes capturing commercials, what if laughter did?
Happiness doesn't come in a bottle of pills.
People initiate hugs, emotions, compassion, love.
What if you picked up the newspaper to see a field or a row of trees on the front page?
Why is it that these things which bring us happiness are so often overlooked?
Could it be that our priorities are a little skewed? A little slanted?
Appearance is superificial.
A friend once told me this about marriage:
Imagine what your spouse or significant other will look like 20 years from now. Will he or she still be beautiful? Will their beauty always come from the inside or will they be constantly searching for beauty in the latest wrinkle cream?
Lord, help me to be satisfied with the simple. The chirping birds, the dog that barks, the baby who cries. Let me see with your eyes that these items reflect your nature. That they are meant to produce love and affection and wholeness and peace. Whenever I doubt your grace, let me know that I'm covered.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Silence
sometimes, a lack of words speak louder than conversation.
sometimes, the silence is all that a person needs to be healed.
sometimes, listening is the only solution.
sometimes, the silence is all that a person needs to be healed.
sometimes, listening is the only solution.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Love Letter
Standing outside in a white summer dress
with the warm sunshine radiating upon my pale back,
I look up at the blue sky mixed with the shapely white clouds,
while my toes make grand introductions to the rough granules of sand.
My footprints create a still life portrait of a girl who once was
of feet that once were, before the water washed her life away.
She finds herself in pursuit of a man,
a man who she assumes to be her father.
For every one of her strides, he takes two.
Always a step ahead of her, she is often consumed by the song of the wind.
His whisper is faint and his words, powerful.
His love letters are always S.W.A.K.
He paints the morning
and pulls the curtains at nighttime.
He gives life to the dying
and to the living, new perspectives.
He sends a message via prayer and a hug in the arms of a friend.
His embrace is found sitting on the grass,
listening to a world pass by
and yet involved with it all.
He always has the right words to say.
They are not coated with clutter
but loaded with substance.
Only a few words make her heart skip a beat;
make that Love Letter all the more personal:
"I love you."
(a poem written by Alex)
with the warm sunshine radiating upon my pale back,
I look up at the blue sky mixed with the shapely white clouds,
while my toes make grand introductions to the rough granules of sand.
My footprints create a still life portrait of a girl who once was
of feet that once were, before the water washed her life away.
She finds herself in pursuit of a man,
a man who she assumes to be her father.
For every one of her strides, he takes two.
Always a step ahead of her, she is often consumed by the song of the wind.
His whisper is faint and his words, powerful.
His love letters are always S.W.A.K.
He paints the morning
and pulls the curtains at nighttime.
He gives life to the dying
and to the living, new perspectives.
He sends a message via prayer and a hug in the arms of a friend.
His embrace is found sitting on the grass,
listening to a world pass by
and yet involved with it all.
He always has the right words to say.
They are not coated with clutter
but loaded with substance.
Only a few words make her heart skip a beat;
make that Love Letter all the more personal:
"I love you."
(a poem written by Alex)
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
"Don't Assume You Know It All"
Proverbs 3: 1-12 (The Message)
"Good friend, don't forget all I've taught you;
take to heart my commands.
They'll help you live a long, long time,
a long life lived full and well.
Don't lose your grip on Love and Loyalty.
Tie them around your neck; carve their initials on your heart.
Earn a reputation for living well
in God's eyes and the eyes of the people.
Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
don't try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
he's the one who will keep you on track.
Don't assume that you know it all.
Run to God! Run from evil!
Your body will glow with health,
your very bones will vibrate with life!
Honor God with everything you own;
give him the first and the best.
Your barns will burst,
your wine vats will brim over.
But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline;
don't sulk under his loving correction.
It's the child he loves that God corrects;
a father's delight is behind all this."
Recently, this passage has been knocking at my door. My heart longs to fulfill these things but sometimes, I feel reluctant. So, I've been asking myself these questions all week:
-Where have I assumed that I know it all?
-Which areas of my life do I honestly need God's loving discipline?
Reflection in writing and silence helps me to hear God. I feel so in tune with God when I write. I fall in love with words as I witness their unique curves on paper. Every thought turns into a stroke, which turns into a letter, which makes a word, which produces a sentence, which reveals the thought that lay floating in my mind. Words are a language. They are a form of expression. A pen makes them come alive on paper. Just like a baby takes its first breath, words are the key to a person's heart. If a person is loving, such complimentary actions will follow. If a person uses hurt as a form of communication, their words will express their agony and brokenness inside.
May we be humble enough to hear someone's cry for love, this simple love that looks and does not judge.
A love that hugs and does not kill.
A love that sees right through to a person's inner being and feels absolutely no shame.
A love that resembles a husband who looks at his wife and falls in love with her every day.
A love that enjoys spending time with a person. No words are needed here.
A love that witnesses the anguish and decides to act.
A love that just is.
"Good friend, don't forget all I've taught you;
take to heart my commands.
They'll help you live a long, long time,
a long life lived full and well.
Don't lose your grip on Love and Loyalty.
Tie them around your neck; carve their initials on your heart.
Earn a reputation for living well
in God's eyes and the eyes of the people.
Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
don't try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
he's the one who will keep you on track.
Don't assume that you know it all.
Run to God! Run from evil!
Your body will glow with health,
your very bones will vibrate with life!
Honor God with everything you own;
give him the first and the best.
Your barns will burst,
your wine vats will brim over.
But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline;
don't sulk under his loving correction.
It's the child he loves that God corrects;
a father's delight is behind all this."
Recently, this passage has been knocking at my door. My heart longs to fulfill these things but sometimes, I feel reluctant. So, I've been asking myself these questions all week:
-Where have I assumed that I know it all?
-Which areas of my life do I honestly need God's loving discipline?
Reflection in writing and silence helps me to hear God. I feel so in tune with God when I write. I fall in love with words as I witness their unique curves on paper. Every thought turns into a stroke, which turns into a letter, which makes a word, which produces a sentence, which reveals the thought that lay floating in my mind. Words are a language. They are a form of expression. A pen makes them come alive on paper. Just like a baby takes its first breath, words are the key to a person's heart. If a person is loving, such complimentary actions will follow. If a person uses hurt as a form of communication, their words will express their agony and brokenness inside.
May we be humble enough to hear someone's cry for love, this simple love that looks and does not judge.
A love that hugs and does not kill.
A love that sees right through to a person's inner being and feels absolutely no shame.
A love that resembles a husband who looks at his wife and falls in love with her every day.
A love that enjoys spending time with a person. No words are needed here.
A love that witnesses the anguish and decides to act.
A love that just is.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Let Go
i'm being taken into the unknown and
learning the meaning of trust,
how to trust
and when to let go of the balloon.
does the scary outweigh the exciting
or
does the exciting outweigh the scary
or both?
my friends in high school used to jokingly say the phrase:
"Trust is the key."
can the unknown be familiar?
can the unknown be attractive?
can the unknown be beautiful?
can a friendship that's lasted so long seem like its only beginning?
is there a time where you can fully know a person?
is there a time where you can fully know God?
i say nay to the latter, for if I try to define God in exquisite words and wrap my mind around his infinite beauty then I am only creating a picture of a 'god' that I wish to see.
i need to worship God for who he is; that is,
the creator of all things,
the sky, the daffodils, the lillies, the grazing cows, and the crying baby.
the God who makes sadness beauty and who gives breath to a dying human neighbor.
a God who is not limitless but reaches his arms out to sew the barriers between race, culture and class.
i worship a God who is greater than myself.
i trust when I feel uncertain.
i believe when I am unbelieving.
i hope when situations are hopeless.
i love when i feel unloving.
i trust in knowing that God has me exactly where I am meant to be.
Amen.
(a poem and prayer written by alex)
(to see this image its original context, click reading.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Reflections on maps and God
So, I just got back from New Orleans. It was such an incredible experience that I would not trade it for anything else. The friendships that were formed will last forever as they are built on genuine love. It feels like I knew these people forever!
The thing that struck me the most is how happy I was. I'm usually very excited about serving other people but this experience was different. A different form excitement occured that built up everyday. All the concerns about safety and worries about hygenie were minute in comparison to the purpose of helping others. And, what's strange, is that I didn't look at this break as "losing" time for myself or "giving something up"; rather, it was a time to explore my walk with God, to grow closer to my friends, and to discover exactly how far I will trust God with my entire life.
You see, I am much of a planner. I like to make sure that I know exactly what's going on each day. This spring break, a friend told me to "throw the map away." Strange how our destination can be so easily dictated by a map and yet at the same time the journey may yield different results.
Where have you held onto the map far too long? Where do you need to "throw it away" and allow God to be your guide, your cartographer, your compass? He always has a way of working all things together. The surprises that you find when you let the wind blow your map away are absolutely endless.
The thing that struck me the most is how happy I was. I'm usually very excited about serving other people but this experience was different. A different form excitement occured that built up everyday. All the concerns about safety and worries about hygenie were minute in comparison to the purpose of helping others. And, what's strange, is that I didn't look at this break as "losing" time for myself or "giving something up"; rather, it was a time to explore my walk with God, to grow closer to my friends, and to discover exactly how far I will trust God with my entire life.
You see, I am much of a planner. I like to make sure that I know exactly what's going on each day. This spring break, a friend told me to "throw the map away." Strange how our destination can be so easily dictated by a map and yet at the same time the journey may yield different results.
Where have you held onto the map far too long? Where do you need to "throw it away" and allow God to be your guide, your cartographer, your compass? He always has a way of working all things together. The surprises that you find when you let the wind blow your map away are absolutely endless.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
memories
the twinkle in his eyes is still there.
the young, youthful look still apparent as happiness quietly pulls back the curtains of his aged mouth to reveal a smile.
his booming voice resonates within me;
someday my children will hear tales of "the great storyteller".
his caring nature exceeds beyond money
mixing love and hope in a bouquet of flowers.
as he gets dressed in his Sunday best,
that is, his naval suit, he is accompanied by a stunning woman,
whose beauty surpasses appearance, pumping life deep inside her heart.
she fixes his tie with purpose and adjusts his cap with a loving touch
helping him look ever more perfect as the minutes go by.
as time goes by, they silently find themselves sitting side by side on the old blue linen couch,
recalling the memories of years past
of that day when they wed,
him in his navy suit and her in a pressed brown suit
each complimenting the rest,
showing love for each other
caring for their children
smiling and laughing as on the day they first met.
so, even though times change and people mature,
their love never dies
a beautiful embrace wrapped in passion.
(written by alex)
the young, youthful look still apparent as happiness quietly pulls back the curtains of his aged mouth to reveal a smile.
his booming voice resonates within me;
someday my children will hear tales of "the great storyteller".
his caring nature exceeds beyond money
mixing love and hope in a bouquet of flowers.
as he gets dressed in his Sunday best,
that is, his naval suit, he is accompanied by a stunning woman,
whose beauty surpasses appearance, pumping life deep inside her heart.
she fixes his tie with purpose and adjusts his cap with a loving touch
helping him look ever more perfect as the minutes go by.
as time goes by, they silently find themselves sitting side by side on the old blue linen couch,
recalling the memories of years past
of that day when they wed,
him in his navy suit and her in a pressed brown suit
each complimenting the rest,
showing love for each other
caring for their children
smiling and laughing as on the day they first met.
so, even though times change and people mature,
their love never dies
a beautiful embrace wrapped in passion.
(written by alex)
Saturday, February 27, 2010
..."he's got the whole world in his hands..."
the entire world,
from america to haiti,
from darfur to our own neighborhood,
is held together in the hands of God.
his support is greater than any government and
his love is more precious than that of a married couple.
simply put,
God = love
from america to haiti,
from darfur to our own neighborhood,
is held together in the hands of God.
his support is greater than any government and
his love is more precious than that of a married couple.
simply put,
God = love
Friday, February 19, 2010
breeze
smile.
turn your face to the wind.
let the breeze caress your cheeks.
may it paint a portrait of my soul.
clean the brushes, scrape the palette clean.
the painter will replace the old, dried, and unused.
new colors will emerge;
perhaps a bold magenta or a quiet green seaweed who's only evidence of interaction wraps between my toes.
lean over the cup of water.
a pair of eyes greets me
as a pale forehead wrinkles into perspective.
they say "eyes are the windows to the soul".
my painter.
where art thou?
i look in the cup and you are not there.
i look in the comfort and you are not there.
i search and climb, pull and push.
i turn my head and find you sitting there with me.
sitting in the simple.
listening in the noisy.
loving in the turmoil.
you are there.
continue to let the breeze pursue
and
love
me.
(alex wrote this poem.)
turn your face to the wind.
let the breeze caress your cheeks.
may it paint a portrait of my soul.
clean the brushes, scrape the palette clean.
the painter will replace the old, dried, and unused.
new colors will emerge;
perhaps a bold magenta or a quiet green seaweed who's only evidence of interaction wraps between my toes.
lean over the cup of water.
a pair of eyes greets me
as a pale forehead wrinkles into perspective.
they say "eyes are the windows to the soul".
my painter.
where art thou?
i look in the cup and you are not there.
i look in the comfort and you are not there.
i search and climb, pull and push.
i turn my head and find you sitting there with me.
sitting in the simple.
listening in the noisy.
loving in the turmoil.
you are there.
continue to let the breeze pursue
and
love
me.
(alex wrote this poem.)
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
peace
"Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me."
-Psalm 51: 10-12
"...sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything."
-Matthew 6:10
"Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God."
-2 Corinthians 7
these verses have taken on new meaning for me.
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me."
-Psalm 51: 10-12
"...sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything."
-Matthew 6:10
"Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God."
-2 Corinthians 7
these verses have taken on new meaning for me.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Thursday, February 4, 2010
a thought
"We can fix without serving. And we can help without serving. And we can serve without fixing or helping....fixing and helping may often be the work of the ego, and service the work of the soul."
-Rachel Remen (1996)
-Rachel Remen (1996)
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Discipline
"it takes discipline."
ever heard that expression before?
it seems like that very word, "discipline" denotes negative conotations.
unnerving, obligation, choiceless, rules...
could discipline ever be achieved out of love?
could love be discipline?
imagine a parent holding a child's hand while crossing the street. a parent disciplines their child in this way out love. in a similar way, Christ disciplines us. he pulls and prods, gives and takes away from our lives everyday. but like the parent, he is always there.
a friend painted this picture for me today. a child sees his father fixing the pipes underneath a sink. the young boy eagerly wants to help and the father lets him. together, they hold on to the wrench, turning it and turning it until the sink is fixed. God allows us to take part in his mission, never leaving us alone but always holding onto that wrench with us.
ever heard that expression before?
it seems like that very word, "discipline" denotes negative conotations.
unnerving, obligation, choiceless, rules...
could discipline ever be achieved out of love?
could love be discipline?
imagine a parent holding a child's hand while crossing the street. a parent disciplines their child in this way out love. in a similar way, Christ disciplines us. he pulls and prods, gives and takes away from our lives everyday. but like the parent, he is always there.
a friend painted this picture for me today. a child sees his father fixing the pipes underneath a sink. the young boy eagerly wants to help and the father lets him. together, they hold on to the wrench, turning it and turning it until the sink is fixed. God allows us to take part in his mission, never leaving us alone but always holding onto that wrench with us.
Friday, January 29, 2010
He turned my world upside down
"Sell everything and give it to the poor."
That's a scary thought.
Shane Claiborne says that "God comforts the disturbed and disturbs the comfortable." Jesus calls us not to preach from pulpits but to live a simple life that's not very simple at all. To love when our body tells us to yell. To stay when we just want to walk away. To hug when our mind tells us to judge. To let God do the giving rather than have us bandage a wound with our meaningless material items.
Just yesterday, I saw my cousin who was very sad. The stresses of a daily week and a new semester at school were just piling up on her leaving little room to take a clean breath of fresh air. My words did nothing. I felt powerless standing in the middle of the bookstore only able to give a hug. But through that hug, I saw Jesus and I knew that regardless of what those other twenty or so people in the bookstore thought of a girl in a bright pink coat hugging a crying woman, I knew within my heart that this is Christianity.
That's a scary thought.
Shane Claiborne says that "God comforts the disturbed and disturbs the comfortable." Jesus calls us not to preach from pulpits but to live a simple life that's not very simple at all. To love when our body tells us to yell. To stay when we just want to walk away. To hug when our mind tells us to judge. To let God do the giving rather than have us bandage a wound with our meaningless material items.
Just yesterday, I saw my cousin who was very sad. The stresses of a daily week and a new semester at school were just piling up on her leaving little room to take a clean breath of fresh air. My words did nothing. I felt powerless standing in the middle of the bookstore only able to give a hug. But through that hug, I saw Jesus and I knew that regardless of what those other twenty or so people in the bookstore thought of a girl in a bright pink coat hugging a crying woman, I knew within my heart that this is Christianity.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Love Has a Face
This morning, I continued my journey in the book, Irresistible Revolution, by Shane Claiborne. It's weird how things work. I listen to something (anything for that matter) repeatedly and assume that I've got it nailed only to realize that I have missed the true essence. You can say to someone: "I love you" but not love and the action is meaningless because it was not birthed in love but rather, obligation. Sometimes the best moments in life are the ones that are left unsaid; simply two people enjoying each other's company bound by the common string of love.
Claiborne tells a story about love, one that requires a person to actually live like Jesus did. See if you are able to recognize that true meaning of Christianity, that the actual heart of God cannot be explained away by science or wrapped neatly in a gift box. His defintion of love applies to everyday where his followers are required (because they seek a greater kingdom here on earth) to love in the most simplest of ways.
"Most days I would go to the clinic run by the lepers-become-doctors, and a line would form as people waited to be treated. The doctors would lay out a huge pile of cotton about four feet high, and my job was to roll cotton balls for them as they cared for one another. I would watch intently, fascinated by their love and compassion. One afternoon as things were winding down, one of the doctors had to leave early, but there were a few patients still waiting to be seen. He looked at me and emphatically said, "You know how this works; you have been watching. It's your turn." Startled, I just stared at him. I had been watching, and I did know what to do, but I wasn't sure I dared. I came forward and sat in the doctor's seat and began staring into the next patient's eyes, and the decision had already been made. I began carefully dressing the man's wound. He stared at me with such intentisty that it felt like he was looking into my soul. Every once in a while he would slowly close his eyes."
"When I was finished, he said to me that sacred word I had come to love: "Namaste." I smiled with tears in my eyes and whispered, "Jesus." He saw Jesus in me. And I saw Jesus in him. I remember thinking back to the stained-glass window my United Methodist church bought for over $100,000. I saw a clearer glimpse of Jesus in this leper's eyes than any stained-glasss window could ever give me." (Claiborne 83-84)
this is what i want to do.
to simply love.
to be.
just as jesus was for me.
Claiborne tells a story about love, one that requires a person to actually live like Jesus did. See if you are able to recognize that true meaning of Christianity, that the actual heart of God cannot be explained away by science or wrapped neatly in a gift box. His defintion of love applies to everyday where his followers are required (because they seek a greater kingdom here on earth) to love in the most simplest of ways.
"Most days I would go to the clinic run by the lepers-become-doctors, and a line would form as people waited to be treated. The doctors would lay out a huge pile of cotton about four feet high, and my job was to roll cotton balls for them as they cared for one another. I would watch intently, fascinated by their love and compassion. One afternoon as things were winding down, one of the doctors had to leave early, but there were a few patients still waiting to be seen. He looked at me and emphatically said, "You know how this works; you have been watching. It's your turn." Startled, I just stared at him. I had been watching, and I did know what to do, but I wasn't sure I dared. I came forward and sat in the doctor's seat and began staring into the next patient's eyes, and the decision had already been made. I began carefully dressing the man's wound. He stared at me with such intentisty that it felt like he was looking into my soul. Every once in a while he would slowly close his eyes."
"When I was finished, he said to me that sacred word I had come to love: "Namaste." I smiled with tears in my eyes and whispered, "Jesus." He saw Jesus in me. And I saw Jesus in him. I remember thinking back to the stained-glass window my United Methodist church bought for over $100,000. I saw a clearer glimpse of Jesus in this leper's eyes than any stained-glasss window could ever give me." (Claiborne 83-84)
this is what i want to do.
to simply love.
to be.
just as jesus was for me.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Sunday, January 24, 2010
"...but the greatest of these is love."
"Love without courage and wisdom is sentimentality, as with the ordinary church member. Courage without love and wisdom is foolhardiness, as with the ordinary soldier. Wisdom without love and courage is cowardice, as with the ordinary intellectual. But the one who has love, courage, and wisdom moves the world."
-Ammon Hennacy, Catholic activist
1893 - 1970
-Ammon Hennacy, Catholic activist
1893 - 1970
Friday, January 22, 2010
Clean House
High school.
A time of fitting in and discovering oneself.
Raging hormones and school dances.
Senior pranks and memorable moments.
Lately, I've been going through a lot of my old high school papers. Partly because they're invading my house and partly because I don't need 9th grade tests, cnidarian fact sheets, and pre-calculus math problems anymore. Instead, I've graduated to participating in friendships, job searching, and pondering about my future life. All of which seem quite foreign yet very near. How is that the phrase "time flies" holds true to so many aspects of our lives? Why can I willingly release the balloon of old research papers and cannot begin to fathom letting go of the memories? Memories that went into writing notes or making a Beowulf rap? Memories of friends and that life changing event, "graduation" seem so far away yet when I unlock that door to reveal these past successes, I remember the smiles and joyful embraces.
But sometimes, when I unlock these doors, I am reminded of memories that were hurtful and destructive. Broken friendships gone sour, moments of silent suffering, and difficult circumstances.
Yet, through all of these memories, I am reminded that God was there with me. He was the one guiding me and pulling me through that inner tube of mixed emotions and beauty. He was the one constantly chasing after me to transform and create a new person.
So, whatever became of all those papers? All eight bags have been shredded and will be out on the curb Monday.
A time of fitting in and discovering oneself.
Raging hormones and school dances.
Senior pranks and memorable moments.
Lately, I've been going through a lot of my old high school papers. Partly because they're invading my house and partly because I don't need 9th grade tests, cnidarian fact sheets, and pre-calculus math problems anymore. Instead, I've graduated to participating in friendships, job searching, and pondering about my future life. All of which seem quite foreign yet very near. How is that the phrase "time flies" holds true to so many aspects of our lives? Why can I willingly release the balloon of old research papers and cannot begin to fathom letting go of the memories? Memories that went into writing notes or making a Beowulf rap? Memories of friends and that life changing event, "graduation" seem so far away yet when I unlock that door to reveal these past successes, I remember the smiles and joyful embraces.
But sometimes, when I unlock these doors, I am reminded of memories that were hurtful and destructive. Broken friendships gone sour, moments of silent suffering, and difficult circumstances.
Yet, through all of these memories, I am reminded that God was there with me. He was the one guiding me and pulling me through that inner tube of mixed emotions and beauty. He was the one constantly chasing after me to transform and create a new person.
So, whatever became of all those papers? All eight bags have been shredded and will be out on the curb Monday.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
I Am Thankful
this new year i vow to:
- take time to smell the roses
- birdwatch
- paint and draw
- go for a bike ride
- try something new
- love others
- smile
- be content with what i have
- i will give thanks daily
- i will place the needs of others before mine and ask, "what may i do to help?"
- i will give without expecting anything in return
- i will give from the heart and not from the flesh
enjoy life. enjoy the sun. go sit outside. grab a coat, a chair and breathe in the fresh air. appreciate nature. god did. he looked at it all and saw that it was good. thankfulness comes from an awareness and acceptance of what a person has been given and where they have come from. to be thankful means to truly be content. to be content means to truly be thankful.
- take time to smell the roses
- birdwatch
- paint and draw
- go for a bike ride
- try something new
- love others
- smile
- be content with what i have
- i will give thanks daily
- i will place the needs of others before mine and ask, "what may i do to help?"
- i will give without expecting anything in return
- i will give from the heart and not from the flesh
enjoy life. enjoy the sun. go sit outside. grab a coat, a chair and breathe in the fresh air. appreciate nature. god did. he looked at it all and saw that it was good. thankfulness comes from an awareness and acceptance of what a person has been given and where they have come from. to be thankful means to truly be content. to be content means to truly be thankful.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)