Have you ever had a conversation with someone who was truly passionate about something their life? It's amazing to see the way their face may light up as they talk about that topic. They show not only knowledge on the subject, but it almost seems to burn inside them, looking for a release, especially when someone shows an interest in that subject.
Passion is related to our emotional being. And here, I don't mean passion in the way that it gets misused in general. Today, way too much is made of passion being related to sensuality or sexuality. By that term passion, I mean something that burns and bubbles up inside of you, something that touches you and affects you powerfully in life, something that you feel very strongly about.
When we look through the Bible, one picture is painted clearly for us. God is a passionate God. He deeply loves His creation. Like the father in the parable of the Prodigal Son, God willingly forgoes dignity because of how much He loves His children, especially the ones who are His through faith. God's passion is such that He would send His one and only Son to forgive and redeem the world from sin and condemnation.
We see that same passion in Jesus throughout His life. He felt anger at injustice. He was deeply moved by people who were hurting, or who recognized their need for Him. Jesus is so passionate about us that He willingly took our sin upon Himself on the cross so that we can be His and be with Him forever. Passion drove God to take action, and that action involved Jesus giving up His life on the cross and taking it back up again.
Passion cannot be separated from emotion. And yet, there is a vital difference here. Passion drives us to do what we do. Love for a spouse drives us to please that spouse, to sacrifice for him or her. Passion for hurting people drives some to give, and others to participate in relief efforts. Passion drives us to accomplish more than what we may think possible in life.
Passion is a driving force in life. Passion is tied to our emotional state. And yet, we cannot allow our emotions to overcome our passion. Jesus felt sorrow at the death of a friend (Lazarus), even going so far as to weep (John 11:35). And yet, He did not allow His sorrow to distract Him from the passion of His existence, that of rescuing the world from the clutches of sin and the devil.
We could think of passion as focused emotion. And to focus emotion means a couple of things. First, it means that emotion is not in control, but is under control. It also means that we utilize our emotion for that which drives us, and not as a distraction. In other words, passion involves emotional discipline.
What are you passionate about in life? How do you discipline your emotional being in order to be fully passionate about it?
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Emotions and God's Word
Okay, quick, what is the shortest verse in the Bible in English? It consists of two words. Give up? It's John 11:35.
What's so amazing about that? It's descriptive of an event that we don't see very often. A man cries. I think back to movies I've seen, such as "A League of Their Own", with Tom Hanks acting as the manager of a women's baseball team during WWII. The one line that stands out from that movie is, "There's no crying in baseball."
What does God's Word have to say about the role emotions play in our life and in our faith? The reality is, it doesn't really address this particular question. It talks a lot about people and their feelings and reactions, but if you are looking for some kind of systematic way of understanding emotions, the Bible doesn't really give that to us.
One thing that the Bible does make clear, though, is that there is a place for emotions, and for a rather wide range of them. Jesus wept. Jesus was moved deeply. Jesus was angry. And we see these same things in God, which shouldn't be a surprise, since Jesus and God are one and the same essence. God is saddened by His people. God is deeply moved, enough so to send His Son as our rescuer from His wrath at sin and the condemnation that our sinful life deserves. God has anger, especially at sin, but also at such things as injustice and lack of compassion.
However, God also does not simply react when these emotional states strike. They never overcome His faithfulness toward us, nor does He act rashly toward us because of a powerful emotion. God still controls His thinking and His actions, even in the grip of powerful emotions.
What's so amazing about that? It's descriptive of an event that we don't see very often. A man cries. I think back to movies I've seen, such as "A League of Their Own", with Tom Hanks acting as the manager of a women's baseball team during WWII. The one line that stands out from that movie is, "There's no crying in baseball."
What does God's Word have to say about the role emotions play in our life and in our faith? The reality is, it doesn't really address this particular question. It talks a lot about people and their feelings and reactions, but if you are looking for some kind of systematic way of understanding emotions, the Bible doesn't really give that to us.
One thing that the Bible does make clear, though, is that there is a place for emotions, and for a rather wide range of them. Jesus wept. Jesus was moved deeply. Jesus was angry. And we see these same things in God, which shouldn't be a surprise, since Jesus and God are one and the same essence. God is saddened by His people. God is deeply moved, enough so to send His Son as our rescuer from His wrath at sin and the condemnation that our sinful life deserves. God has anger, especially at sin, but also at such things as injustice and lack of compassion.
However, God also does not simply react when these emotional states strike. They never overcome His faithfulness toward us, nor does He act rashly toward us because of a powerful emotion. God still controls His thinking and His actions, even in the grip of powerful emotions.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Emotional Discipline
Over the past few weeks, I've been giving my thoughts and some biblical themes on the subject of discipline. We've looked at physical, spiritual, and mental discipline, and now I'm moving into the final area for this discussion: emotional discipline.
In a general sense, do you have control over the emotions you feel in life, or do they have control over you? I ask this as a general rule, since we all have times in our lives where emotions come on strong and hold sway over us. Those times are not part of today's discussion. What we're talking about is life in general. Are you easily distracted from the everyday tasks at hand because your emotions get the better of you? Or, on the other hand, do you approach life as though emotions have no effect whatsoever on what happens?
I would suggest that neither extreme is healthy, nor is it according to the fashion in which God created us as humans. We aren't to be swayed by whatever emotion strikes us, as though our whole life is lived based upon our moods and how things strike us. Neither are we to approach life as though our emotions are something to be discarded and set aside (I believe this is a faulty assumption that comes out of the enlightenment, which seeks objectivity above all, and then fails utterly at it). God created humans with emotion, though He did not create us in such a way that our emotions are to be the determining factor for how we live our lives.
Which end of the spectrum do you tend to fall toward? How has this been a good thing in your life, and how has it also worked to create difficulties?
In a general sense, do you have control over the emotions you feel in life, or do they have control over you? I ask this as a general rule, since we all have times in our lives where emotions come on strong and hold sway over us. Those times are not part of today's discussion. What we're talking about is life in general. Are you easily distracted from the everyday tasks at hand because your emotions get the better of you? Or, on the other hand, do you approach life as though emotions have no effect whatsoever on what happens?
I would suggest that neither extreme is healthy, nor is it according to the fashion in which God created us as humans. We aren't to be swayed by whatever emotion strikes us, as though our whole life is lived based upon our moods and how things strike us. Neither are we to approach life as though our emotions are something to be discarded and set aside (I believe this is a faulty assumption that comes out of the enlightenment, which seeks objectivity above all, and then fails utterly at it). God created humans with emotion, though He did not create us in such a way that our emotions are to be the determining factor for how we live our lives.
Which end of the spectrum do you tend to fall toward? How has this been a good thing in your life, and how has it also worked to create difficulties?
Monday, March 28, 2011
Physical, Spiritual, and Mental Discipline: Tying Them Together
Over the last several posts, I've spent a lot of time on these three. Before moving us into the fourth area of discipline (emotional), it seems like it would be good to bring these three we've looked at all together.
As we look at the way we operate as humans (the way God created us to be), we recognize that we cannot easily divide ourselves to talk about one part of what we are as though it doesn't affect the rest. When our bodies hurt, we often have a difficult time concentrating, and those moments also tend to bring us to low points spiritually. On the other hand, when we introduce greater health to one of these areas, it has a tendency to spill over into the others, as well. (I've noticed this in that my running has helped to sharpen both my thinking and my spiritual disciplines.)
That's the tie that these three have together. When we are unhealthy in one area, it's likely to affect the other areas too. I can't really think of a greater example of this than what you can see on the TV show, "The Biggest Loser". Often you see the contestants breaking into tears at what might seem minor things, but it's because they are crashing through the mental or spiritual barriers that have often led to their lack of physical discipline. Breaking through those barriers is tough, and often should not be done alone, and yet, as we find the strength to do so, we suddenly start to see a better picture of the whole person that God created us to be.
I have to admit that discovering where we are unhealthy in these areas is not often easy, nor is it painless. Uncovering and then confessing our areas of unhealthiness or weakness will never be easy, much less the task of overcoming it. And the reality is, we will never fully overcome any of these while we live in this imperfect, broken (i.e. sinful) world.
Yet, God gives us means in our life and in our battle to strengthen these areas of life. Dealing with these also provides a reminder to just how great life will be in His kingdom when all these areas of life are brought into perfect alignment as we live with God forever, through faith in Jesus.
As we look at the way we operate as humans (the way God created us to be), we recognize that we cannot easily divide ourselves to talk about one part of what we are as though it doesn't affect the rest. When our bodies hurt, we often have a difficult time concentrating, and those moments also tend to bring us to low points spiritually. On the other hand, when we introduce greater health to one of these areas, it has a tendency to spill over into the others, as well. (I've noticed this in that my running has helped to sharpen both my thinking and my spiritual disciplines.)
That's the tie that these three have together. When we are unhealthy in one area, it's likely to affect the other areas too. I can't really think of a greater example of this than what you can see on the TV show, "The Biggest Loser". Often you see the contestants breaking into tears at what might seem minor things, but it's because they are crashing through the mental or spiritual barriers that have often led to their lack of physical discipline. Breaking through those barriers is tough, and often should not be done alone, and yet, as we find the strength to do so, we suddenly start to see a better picture of the whole person that God created us to be.
I have to admit that discovering where we are unhealthy in these areas is not often easy, nor is it painless. Uncovering and then confessing our areas of unhealthiness or weakness will never be easy, much less the task of overcoming it. And the reality is, we will never fully overcome any of these while we live in this imperfect, broken (i.e. sinful) world.
Yet, God gives us means in our life and in our battle to strengthen these areas of life. Dealing with these also provides a reminder to just how great life will be in His kingdom when all these areas of life are brought into perfect alignment as we live with God forever, through faith in Jesus.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Connecting Mental and Spiritual Discipline
Hey, all, sorry that I took yesterday off. Since we are on the theme of discipline, I realized that I needed to discipline myself in having a day to let my mind actually rest a bit. But we're back on track today.
The connection between mental and physical discipline has been covered greatly in other arenas (I have to say that one of my favorite "quotes" is from the ever wise Yogi Bera, who said something along the lines that playing baseball is 90% mental, and the other half is physical. Yogi's math continues to elude even me!). Basically, a part of the rigor of physical discipline is to have the mental capacity to endure through it, to push yourself.
But what about mental and spiritual discipline? That line hasn't been discussed so much. Sure, there are books out there talking about the need for prayer, or to read the Bible, but overall, I would dare say that most of us don't make a clear connection with our mental and spiritual discipline.
My last post was about Jesus and how He does indeed care about how we think and what we think. I want to add to that today with some words from Paul. "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." (Philippians 4:8) It seems that Paul is directing the Philippians to think about those things in life which are in line with what God has revealed about Himself. God is truth. God is honorable. God is just, and so on. And so, when we see those reflections of God in this world, we are to think of them, because they guide us back to the God who created such things. Spending our time thinking about fruitless, useless things serves only ourselves.
How well do you do in life with focusing on the things that reflect God in the world? As you see those, do you think of the God who created such things in that way? That's where the realm of mental discipline begins to interact with our spiritual discipline. As we recognize God's hand, we are led to Him, giving thanks and praise for what He has done and continues to do. So today, as you see that which is good, just, honorable, etc., may it bring your thoughts back to the God who sends such reflections into our world.
The connection between mental and physical discipline has been covered greatly in other arenas (I have to say that one of my favorite "quotes" is from the ever wise Yogi Bera, who said something along the lines that playing baseball is 90% mental, and the other half is physical. Yogi's math continues to elude even me!). Basically, a part of the rigor of physical discipline is to have the mental capacity to endure through it, to push yourself.
But what about mental and spiritual discipline? That line hasn't been discussed so much. Sure, there are books out there talking about the need for prayer, or to read the Bible, but overall, I would dare say that most of us don't make a clear connection with our mental and spiritual discipline.
My last post was about Jesus and how He does indeed care about how we think and what we think. I want to add to that today with some words from Paul. "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." (Philippians 4:8) It seems that Paul is directing the Philippians to think about those things in life which are in line with what God has revealed about Himself. God is truth. God is honorable. God is just, and so on. And so, when we see those reflections of God in this world, we are to think of them, because they guide us back to the God who created such things. Spending our time thinking about fruitless, useless things serves only ourselves.
How well do you do in life with focusing on the things that reflect God in the world? As you see those, do you think of the God who created such things in that way? That's where the realm of mental discipline begins to interact with our spiritual discipline. As we recognize God's hand, we are led to Him, giving thanks and praise for what He has done and continues to do. So today, as you see that which is good, just, honorable, etc., may it bring your thoughts back to the God who sends such reflections into our world.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Mental Discipline and Jesus
"Then the disciples came and said to [Jesus], 'Why do you speak to them in parables?' And he answered them..., 'This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand.'" Matthew 13:10, 13
How is your thinking a reflection of your relationship with Jesus? Most of us likely don't give a lot of thought to the way that we think. Over the years, we have been taught in various ways, in school, in life, and the content of what we have been taught has also shaped what we think.
It is very intriguing to me that Jesus taught quite often using parables. In fact, as I read through the Gospels about Jesus' life, one thing seems to come up quite regularly in Jesus' teaching. He rarely gives a straight-forward answer. Instead, He makes people think, and in doing so, forces them to come to the conclusion that He desires. For example, when the paralyzed man is brought to Him by his four friends, Jesus announces that the man's sins are forgiven. That's hardly why the friends brought him to Jesus. Knowing the thoughts of the religious leaders in the room, that only God can forgive sins, Jesus challenges them with a question. Which one is easier to do from an earthly, human standpoint: tell the man to get up and walk, or announce that his sins are forgiven. Of course, the religious leaders could not answer that it's easier to have the man get up and walk. They would be exposed when he didn't. So the answer would be to announce that his sins were forgiven. After all, who can see sins forgiven? It's not obvious to us humans.
That's when Jesus brings in the hammer to the argument. Here's how you will know who I am. Then He told the man to get up and walk, and he did. Jesus could have answered their thoughts by saying, "Hey, I'm God, I can do this." Instead, Jesus worked in such a way to challenge their thinking, so that they arrived at the same conclusion on their own.
Jesus is dearly concerned with how we think. He doesn't want to simply spoon feed the answers to life to us, but for us to give thought to the mysteries of life, and to recognize how everything, in the end, points back to Him. Good and bad, plenty and need, all parts of life eventually guide our thoughts back to the One who has rescued us from sin, death, and Satan.
How is your thinking a reflection of your relationship with Jesus? Most of us likely don't give a lot of thought to the way that we think. Over the years, we have been taught in various ways, in school, in life, and the content of what we have been taught has also shaped what we think.
It is very intriguing to me that Jesus taught quite often using parables. In fact, as I read through the Gospels about Jesus' life, one thing seems to come up quite regularly in Jesus' teaching. He rarely gives a straight-forward answer. Instead, He makes people think, and in doing so, forces them to come to the conclusion that He desires. For example, when the paralyzed man is brought to Him by his four friends, Jesus announces that the man's sins are forgiven. That's hardly why the friends brought him to Jesus. Knowing the thoughts of the religious leaders in the room, that only God can forgive sins, Jesus challenges them with a question. Which one is easier to do from an earthly, human standpoint: tell the man to get up and walk, or announce that his sins are forgiven. Of course, the religious leaders could not answer that it's easier to have the man get up and walk. They would be exposed when he didn't. So the answer would be to announce that his sins were forgiven. After all, who can see sins forgiven? It's not obvious to us humans.
That's when Jesus brings in the hammer to the argument. Here's how you will know who I am. Then He told the man to get up and walk, and he did. Jesus could have answered their thoughts by saying, "Hey, I'm God, I can do this." Instead, Jesus worked in such a way to challenge their thinking, so that they arrived at the same conclusion on their own.
Jesus is dearly concerned with how we think. He doesn't want to simply spoon feed the answers to life to us, but for us to give thought to the mysteries of life, and to recognize how everything, in the end, points back to Him. Good and bad, plenty and need, all parts of life eventually guide our thoughts back to the One who has rescued us from sin, death, and Satan.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Speak Before You Think? I Think Not!
One of the regular tasks I have in my career is to work with 7th and 8th grade students, teaching them about some of the more important components of the Christian faith. As part of our classes together, we spend a good deal of time reading the Bible and simply trying to figure out what it says.
Every once in a while, we will finish reading a section of the Bible, and I will ask the students what they just read. It always amazes me when they give an answer that is completely unrelated to the Bible reading we just completed. I really try to stress to them that pre-packaged answers, given without thought, do no one any good.
Yet, I have experienced that more than just in working with these young people. I am constantly amazed at how few people really seem to think before they speak. There seems to be an amazing lack of discipline when it comes to putting thoughts into words. I've been part of conversations that seem to go all over the place, with no rhyme or reason on how the person got to the next subject. Yes, I recognize that we all make some kind of connection with our thoughts in our mind, but that seems to be exactly the thing that I'm talking about. It seems that we should think about that thought, and its place in the conversation, rather than just blurting it out.
In fact, I would dare say that mental discipline begins with the skill of listening. Our society and culture has become much more oriented toward speaking rather than listening. Developing the discipline of listening to what the other person says is one of the first steps toward building a greater mental discipline.
Today, when you find yourself in conversation with others, I suggest that you listen intently to what they are saying, and then focus the conversation on what they are talking about, and not the brilliant idea or thought that just popped into your head. I truly believe that the first step of developing greater mental discipline is simply to listen to the other person, and then, to follow their lead. Try it, and if you'd like to share your experience, I would love to listen to you and hear all about it!
Every once in a while, we will finish reading a section of the Bible, and I will ask the students what they just read. It always amazes me when they give an answer that is completely unrelated to the Bible reading we just completed. I really try to stress to them that pre-packaged answers, given without thought, do no one any good.
Yet, I have experienced that more than just in working with these young people. I am constantly amazed at how few people really seem to think before they speak. There seems to be an amazing lack of discipline when it comes to putting thoughts into words. I've been part of conversations that seem to go all over the place, with no rhyme or reason on how the person got to the next subject. Yes, I recognize that we all make some kind of connection with our thoughts in our mind, but that seems to be exactly the thing that I'm talking about. It seems that we should think about that thought, and its place in the conversation, rather than just blurting it out.
In fact, I would dare say that mental discipline begins with the skill of listening. Our society and culture has become much more oriented toward speaking rather than listening. Developing the discipline of listening to what the other person says is one of the first steps toward building a greater mental discipline.
Today, when you find yourself in conversation with others, I suggest that you listen intently to what they are saying, and then focus the conversation on what they are talking about, and not the brilliant idea or thought that just popped into your head. I truly believe that the first step of developing greater mental discipline is simply to listen to the other person, and then, to follow their lead. Try it, and if you'd like to share your experience, I would love to listen to you and hear all about it!
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Mental Discipline
Over the last few posts, I have been giving thoughts on spiritual and physical discipline. Hopefully I've been able to show how these disciplines are interrelated to one another and how they affect each other. Believe me, much more could be said on each of them.
However, there are also other kinds of discipline which we could make use of in our life. The next one deals with the way we think. In particular, I am intrigued by a couple of Bible verses on this matter.
"We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5
"Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my thoughts." Psalm 139:23
Does God care about how I think about things? Based upon these two verses, the answer clearly seems to be a resounding "Yes!" The way we approach our thinking tells a lot about us.
Now, here is where I have to admit to one of my pet peeves. I really, really, really dislike what I call "sloppy thinking." I realize that this covers quite a bit of ground, so perhaps I should first explain what I mean.
Have you ever talked with someone whose thoughts seemed to flit from one topic to the next with no pattern whatsoever? I think of this as A.D.D. of the mind. To me, it seems that such a person isn't disciplined in how they think. They just go with whatever pops into their heads, regardless of if it fits the conversation or not.
I also have to admit that I really have a hard time when people say they believe something, but don't really know why they believe, or haven't thought through what they believe. To me, that demonstrates a laziness in terms of thinking. I really enjoy the give and take of someone who has clearly thought about the topic, even if they strongly disagree with me.
Perhaps in writing out these pet peeves of mine, you start to see what I mean when I speak of the discipline of the mind. Tomorrow I'll write a bit more about what this really is, and how it ties in with our spiritual and physical discipline.
However, there are also other kinds of discipline which we could make use of in our life. The next one deals with the way we think. In particular, I am intrigued by a couple of Bible verses on this matter.
"We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5
"Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my thoughts." Psalm 139:23
Does God care about how I think about things? Based upon these two verses, the answer clearly seems to be a resounding "Yes!" The way we approach our thinking tells a lot about us.
Now, here is where I have to admit to one of my pet peeves. I really, really, really dislike what I call "sloppy thinking." I realize that this covers quite a bit of ground, so perhaps I should first explain what I mean.
Have you ever talked with someone whose thoughts seemed to flit from one topic to the next with no pattern whatsoever? I think of this as A.D.D. of the mind. To me, it seems that such a person isn't disciplined in how they think. They just go with whatever pops into their heads, regardless of if it fits the conversation or not.
I also have to admit that I really have a hard time when people say they believe something, but don't really know why they believe, or haven't thought through what they believe. To me, that demonstrates a laziness in terms of thinking. I really enjoy the give and take of someone who has clearly thought about the topic, even if they strongly disagree with me.
Perhaps in writing out these pet peeves of mine, you start to see what I mean when I speak of the discipline of the mind. Tomorrow I'll write a bit more about what this really is, and how it ties in with our spiritual and physical discipline.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Another word on Physical Discipline
"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified." Paul, in 1 Corinthians 9.
Does your body control you, or do you control your body? That seems like a simplistic kind of question. I also don't know that there is a correct answer, as though it should be an either/or question. In some ways, our body does control us. When we get hungry, our body tells us that it requires food. When our eyes droop and our limbs are tired, our body controls us by telling us to get some rest.
Yet, there are other times when we control our bodies. We may find ourselves craving a bag of potato chips, but know that it isn't the best thing nutrition-wise. Or we know that our body will protest a bit when we step up our exercise routine, but in the end, it will adapt and grow in its fitness level. (Again, we have to listen to our body so that we don't hurt ourselves, but we will also find that our bodies tend to like the stage where they are at and don't really want to push limits.)
Paul puts a different perspective on this, in my mind. He doesn't answer my question above so much as he makes us think about the reason for controlling/disciplining our bodies. Are we doing it (or failing to do it) for ourselves, or do we have some greater purpose with our bodies? If we look upon our bodies as something that is mine, to do with what I want, we will likely find that our bodies control us more than we control them.
However, if our bodies are given to us for a higher purpose, or if we have a reason or cause which brings requirements upon our bodies, then we are more likely to keep them under better control. For example, I like to run. But I also don't run for the sake of running. Running helps prepare me for my calling as a pastor. I'm better able to serve God and His people when my body is in good shape. When I lead worship, I don't have to huff and puff to get through the hour or so. My fitness plan is designed for fun, yes, but the larger picture is that it better enables me to serve my God, which is much higher than any personal goals I may set for myself.
The great thing is, God also seems to allow a great deal of enjoyment as I do that in service to Him. I've ran a few races along the way, and have enjoyed them very much. Finishing half-marathons feels good. Getting a good time in a 5K brings joy. And yet, even then, the reason they feel so good is because those things are also working for a purpose higher than myself. And that gives me a reason to keep up the discipline.
Does your body control you, or do you control your body? That seems like a simplistic kind of question. I also don't know that there is a correct answer, as though it should be an either/or question. In some ways, our body does control us. When we get hungry, our body tells us that it requires food. When our eyes droop and our limbs are tired, our body controls us by telling us to get some rest.
Yet, there are other times when we control our bodies. We may find ourselves craving a bag of potato chips, but know that it isn't the best thing nutrition-wise. Or we know that our body will protest a bit when we step up our exercise routine, but in the end, it will adapt and grow in its fitness level. (Again, we have to listen to our body so that we don't hurt ourselves, but we will also find that our bodies tend to like the stage where they are at and don't really want to push limits.)
Paul puts a different perspective on this, in my mind. He doesn't answer my question above so much as he makes us think about the reason for controlling/disciplining our bodies. Are we doing it (or failing to do it) for ourselves, or do we have some greater purpose with our bodies? If we look upon our bodies as something that is mine, to do with what I want, we will likely find that our bodies control us more than we control them.
However, if our bodies are given to us for a higher purpose, or if we have a reason or cause which brings requirements upon our bodies, then we are more likely to keep them under better control. For example, I like to run. But I also don't run for the sake of running. Running helps prepare me for my calling as a pastor. I'm better able to serve God and His people when my body is in good shape. When I lead worship, I don't have to huff and puff to get through the hour or so. My fitness plan is designed for fun, yes, but the larger picture is that it better enables me to serve my God, which is much higher than any personal goals I may set for myself.
The great thing is, God also seems to allow a great deal of enjoyment as I do that in service to Him. I've ran a few races along the way, and have enjoyed them very much. Finishing half-marathons feels good. Getting a good time in a 5K brings joy. And yet, even then, the reason they feel so good is because those things are also working for a purpose higher than myself. And that gives me a reason to keep up the discipline.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Physical Discipline
We humans have a tendency to equate discipline with some form of physical activity. We watch professional athletes who have to discipline their bodies in order to be able to perform the tasks of their sports. Runners need to discipline themselves in running and in diet. Football players need to discipline their bodies in terms of strength and endurance. The list could go on and on.
In other words, discipline seems like something only for the elite. If we are not elite, then discipline seems to be less of a worry. So we don't watch what we eat as closely as we probably know we should. We don't get the exercise that our doctors would tell us is really good for our bodies. We don't say no to the huge dessert after dinner. We have a tendency to think that discipline only applies to the elite, not to someone like us.
And yet, God gives us frequent reminders in His Word about the need for discipline (and, yes, physical discipline) in His Word. He reminds us that He is the one who has given us our bodies as a gift from Him. He is the one who has purchased and redeemed our bodies and souls through Jesus and the cross, and so our body is not our own. Not only is it God's creation, it is God's, period. And how often would we treat a treasured possession that someone else left in our care like we treat our bodies?
Now, I recognize that physical discipline is not the end-all, anymore than is spiritual discipline or emotional discipline or mental discipline. God's grace shown to us in Jesus is the end-all. And so we don't engage in discipline in order to better prepare us for God's grace. After all, grace is undeserved. Instead, we respond to God's goodness and grace by applying discipline into our lives.
Physical discipline takes on a new meaning when we think about it as a response to God's grace and gifts to us. Instead of being a harsh taskmaster, it becomes an expression of love for the God who has given all for us. And maybe that is a key for us. Instead of thinking of discipline as a punishment, we can think of it as a grateful response to God's love shown to us.
In other words, discipline seems like something only for the elite. If we are not elite, then discipline seems to be less of a worry. So we don't watch what we eat as closely as we probably know we should. We don't get the exercise that our doctors would tell us is really good for our bodies. We don't say no to the huge dessert after dinner. We have a tendency to think that discipline only applies to the elite, not to someone like us.
And yet, God gives us frequent reminders in His Word about the need for discipline (and, yes, physical discipline) in His Word. He reminds us that He is the one who has given us our bodies as a gift from Him. He is the one who has purchased and redeemed our bodies and souls through Jesus and the cross, and so our body is not our own. Not only is it God's creation, it is God's, period. And how often would we treat a treasured possession that someone else left in our care like we treat our bodies?
Now, I recognize that physical discipline is not the end-all, anymore than is spiritual discipline or emotional discipline or mental discipline. God's grace shown to us in Jesus is the end-all. And so we don't engage in discipline in order to better prepare us for God's grace. After all, grace is undeserved. Instead, we respond to God's goodness and grace by applying discipline into our lives.
Physical discipline takes on a new meaning when we think about it as a response to God's grace and gifts to us. Instead of being a harsh taskmaster, it becomes an expression of love for the God who has given all for us. And maybe that is a key for us. Instead of thinking of discipline as a punishment, we can think of it as a grateful response to God's love shown to us.
Friday, March 18, 2011
A Quick Look at Physical Discipline
Yesterday I wrote about the connection between our physical and spiritual natures. With that in mind, I want to put down a few thoughts on "paper", so to speak.
I honestly had not really given physical discipline a great deal of thought growing up. That is, until I took up running as a means of fitness. That's when I started to realize the connections between regular exercise, eating, resting, and the like. When you eat a pizza the night before a run, you shouldn't be surprised to feel really sluggish. On the flip side, a really healthy pasta dish may seem like it gives you hours of energy, especially when combined with good hydration and a regular fitness schedule.
What happens to our physical bodies greatly affects our spiritual nature. In my career, I've seen people bent over with pain whose spirit simply seemed to give out on them. I've seen how the lack of care for our physical bodies can also lead to an overall spirit of disgust or a lack of satisfaction in life.
St. Paul gives us the reminder that our bodies are not our own. God has created our body, given it to us as a gift, and created it to work within certain boundaries. Therefore, it stands to reason that taking care of this gift from God would be something that He would desire, as well as a good way to simply feel better about ourselves.
I honestly had not really given physical discipline a great deal of thought growing up. That is, until I took up running as a means of fitness. That's when I started to realize the connections between regular exercise, eating, resting, and the like. When you eat a pizza the night before a run, you shouldn't be surprised to feel really sluggish. On the flip side, a really healthy pasta dish may seem like it gives you hours of energy, especially when combined with good hydration and a regular fitness schedule.
What happens to our physical bodies greatly affects our spiritual nature. In my career, I've seen people bent over with pain whose spirit simply seemed to give out on them. I've seen how the lack of care for our physical bodies can also lead to an overall spirit of disgust or a lack of satisfaction in life.
St. Paul gives us the reminder that our bodies are not our own. God has created our body, given it to us as a gift, and created it to work within certain boundaries. Therefore, it stands to reason that taking care of this gift from God would be something that He would desire, as well as a good way to simply feel better about ourselves.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
The Physical and the Spiritual
It's a statement that I hear from time to time. It goes something like this. "What I do with my body doesn't affect my soul/spirit." You hear it from those who claim that such actions as sex are merely physical actions, with no effect whatsoever on their spirit or soul. And yet, the sad thing is, they could not be more wrong.
God created us as both physical and spiritual creatures. If you read Genesis chapter 2, you find that God formed the man out of the dust of the earth, but that didn't make him a living creature. It wasn't until God breathed the breath/wind/spirit of life into him that he became a living creature. (And yes, the Hebrew word used there has multiple meanings, which I believe God did intentionally!) God's Spirit/breath gave the man life, and so we find that man has a physical and a spiritual nature.
That shows us that anything that happens to us involves both our physical and our spiritual natures. If you stub your toe, your physical body hurts, and your spiritual nature gets angry at whatever you stubbed your toe on. Think of it. Your body doesn't get angry. Your spirit is what gets angry. And by that same token, when someone hurts you spiritually (a hurtful remark or the ending of a relationship), our bodies reflect the hurt that our soul has taken on.
That also means that, when it comes to disciplining ourselves, the connection between the physical and the spiritual remains. For example, we can pray at any time and in any place. But when we go down on our knees, bow our heads, and close our eyes, the posture affects the spiritual conversation with God. Or, if we are physically exhausted, how easy is it to focus on our Bible reading for the day?
Over the next few days, we'll look a little more deeper at the inter-connection between our physical and our spiritual natures, and how discipline in both natures affect one another.
God created us as both physical and spiritual creatures. If you read Genesis chapter 2, you find that God formed the man out of the dust of the earth, but that didn't make him a living creature. It wasn't until God breathed the breath/wind/spirit of life into him that he became a living creature. (And yes, the Hebrew word used there has multiple meanings, which I believe God did intentionally!) God's Spirit/breath gave the man life, and so we find that man has a physical and a spiritual nature.
That shows us that anything that happens to us involves both our physical and our spiritual natures. If you stub your toe, your physical body hurts, and your spiritual nature gets angry at whatever you stubbed your toe on. Think of it. Your body doesn't get angry. Your spirit is what gets angry. And by that same token, when someone hurts you spiritually (a hurtful remark or the ending of a relationship), our bodies reflect the hurt that our soul has taken on.
That also means that, when it comes to disciplining ourselves, the connection between the physical and the spiritual remains. For example, we can pray at any time and in any place. But when we go down on our knees, bow our heads, and close our eyes, the posture affects the spiritual conversation with God. Or, if we are physically exhausted, how easy is it to focus on our Bible reading for the day?
Over the next few days, we'll look a little more deeper at the inter-connection between our physical and our spiritual natures, and how discipline in both natures affect one another.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Spiritual Discipline: Worship
The discipline of worship. That sounds kind of strange, doesn't it? And yet, who hasn't had that time when the time to get up and get ready for worship came, and we thought that it would be much nicer to stay in bed, or to go do some other activity.
Or, we can think of it also along these lines. We're in the place of worship, and yet, our mind keeps wandering to other things going on in life. We're distracted by the clothes some younger person is wearing, or we don't like the music or songs chosen for the day. The preacher is boring and has already covered this topic before, so we start to think of what we will do when we leave.
First, we need to be reminded of one thing. God is the one who is doing the primary action when we gather for worship. We hear God's Word, during which time God's Spirit works in our hearts and minds. God forgives us of our sins, as that word of forgiveness is spoken to us. The reality of the cross once again comes crashing into our lives, and Jesus blood continually covers us. Then, even as we sing our songs and hymns of thanks and praise, God's Spirit works to strengthen our faith. God does the primary action.
True, there are times when our worship can "feel" boring. The comfort of well-known traditions may lend themselves to complacency. We may have other things going on in life that distract our thoughts. And yet, God is still working there. Sure, we may "get more" out of it when we focus and pay attention, but the good news is, God's Spirit still works, even when our focus and attention may not be at its best.
So what do I mean by the discipline of worship? It's taking away the things that resist or distract us from God's Spirit as He seeks to do His work in us. It's paying attention to the words of the songs or hymns, more than the musical tunes. It's hearing what the Word says to us, not focusing on how familiar it may be. It's realizing that God is the primary one acting upon us, and that He truly takes great delight in our thanks, our praise, and our prayers. It's realizing that the time together is about God, and about God's work in our lives, and not some habit or ritual that we attend to.
Or, we can think of it also along these lines. We're in the place of worship, and yet, our mind keeps wandering to other things going on in life. We're distracted by the clothes some younger person is wearing, or we don't like the music or songs chosen for the day. The preacher is boring and has already covered this topic before, so we start to think of what we will do when we leave.
First, we need to be reminded of one thing. God is the one who is doing the primary action when we gather for worship. We hear God's Word, during which time God's Spirit works in our hearts and minds. God forgives us of our sins, as that word of forgiveness is spoken to us. The reality of the cross once again comes crashing into our lives, and Jesus blood continually covers us. Then, even as we sing our songs and hymns of thanks and praise, God's Spirit works to strengthen our faith. God does the primary action.
True, there are times when our worship can "feel" boring. The comfort of well-known traditions may lend themselves to complacency. We may have other things going on in life that distract our thoughts. And yet, God is still working there. Sure, we may "get more" out of it when we focus and pay attention, but the good news is, God's Spirit still works, even when our focus and attention may not be at its best.
So what do I mean by the discipline of worship? It's taking away the things that resist or distract us from God's Spirit as He seeks to do His work in us. It's paying attention to the words of the songs or hymns, more than the musical tunes. It's hearing what the Word says to us, not focusing on how familiar it may be. It's realizing that God is the primary one acting upon us, and that He truly takes great delight in our thanks, our praise, and our prayers. It's realizing that the time together is about God, and about God's work in our lives, and not some habit or ritual that we attend to.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Spiritual Discipline: Prayer
Have you though of prayer as a discipline? There are a lot of books out there about prayer, and most approach this gift from God as something that begins with us. True, Jesus does tell us that we are to pray, but God's desire in prayer is not like the giving of a report to your boss. It's more like the conversation that you had with your mom and dad when you got home from school and something exciting or scary or bad had happened. It's that desire to simply share what went on that day, to have them share in the joy and wonder and fear of life.
When we think of prayer in this light, that makes it a less daunting task. We've heard pastors and others telling us to develop a prayer life, making it seem like another item on the to-do list. While free-flowing prayer is a great thing, there is also the intentional planning out of time and the organizing of thought that takes place. If you are married, you probably have to carve out time to spend with your spouse to talk about the day. With our busy schedules, the same thing also goes in our conversation with God.
The biggest thing God tells us about prayer is that He simply wants us to be doing it. It may be from the heart, or it may be written out. It may be really deep thoughts that you share, or surface level chatter. The thing is, God wants us to have that conversation with Him. Yes, for some of us, it may require more discipline than it does for others. That's okay. It's a gift from God, and He wants us to recognize it as such, even when we struggle to fit it in the daily schedule or routine.
One of the joys of this gift is that there really isn't a right way or a wrong way to pray. True, some things we share or ask for may be more appropriate than others, but in the end, the acknowledgment is that everything comes from God, even the gift of prayer. So why not think of some time today to talk to your great Father, who is eagerly awaiting your conversation with Him?
When we think of prayer in this light, that makes it a less daunting task. We've heard pastors and others telling us to develop a prayer life, making it seem like another item on the to-do list. While free-flowing prayer is a great thing, there is also the intentional planning out of time and the organizing of thought that takes place. If you are married, you probably have to carve out time to spend with your spouse to talk about the day. With our busy schedules, the same thing also goes in our conversation with God.
The biggest thing God tells us about prayer is that He simply wants us to be doing it. It may be from the heart, or it may be written out. It may be really deep thoughts that you share, or surface level chatter. The thing is, God wants us to have that conversation with Him. Yes, for some of us, it may require more discipline than it does for others. That's okay. It's a gift from God, and He wants us to recognize it as such, even when we struggle to fit it in the daily schedule or routine.
One of the joys of this gift is that there really isn't a right way or a wrong way to pray. True, some things we share or ask for may be more appropriate than others, but in the end, the acknowledgment is that everything comes from God, even the gift of prayer. So why not think of some time today to talk to your great Father, who is eagerly awaiting your conversation with Him?
Monday, March 14, 2011
A Beginner's Guide to Spiritual Discipline
Last week, I listed out a number of different ways that we use the word "discipline". Over the next few posts, we will take a look at spiritual discipline to flesh out what that means, what it might "look" like, and how we can continue to grow in Christian maturity by disciplining ourselves.
Spiritual discipline would be a dedication or commitment to spiritual matters that grow us in relationship with God. Yes, God is the one who originates this relationship, as we would not know God unless He told us about Himself in the Bible. From nature, we can see that there has to be "something" that made everything, but that in itself does not tell us about the nature or characteristics of God.
So God tells us about Himself. As Christians, we believe that He does this through the Bible. The Bible is God's way of telling us about Himself. So, it would stand to reason, if we want to know more about God, or to understand Him more, we would do so by checking out what He tells us about Himself.
This is one big reason why pastors constantly encourage God's people to grow in their discipline of reading the Bible. It's the only place that we learn of God as a loving God, a merciful God, a forgiving God, a God who takes a very intense, personal interest in our lives. The spiritual discipline of reading God's Word is intended to guide us to a deeper relationship with God.
At the same time that we do that, the Bible tells us that God's Spirit does His work on us as we read. God's Spirit is the one who plants, grows, and nurtures faith in the Christian. When we read God's Word, the Spirit continues this work inside of us. So, even as we may engage in the action of reading, God is working to bring us into closer relationship with Him through the Spirit's work.
That's the importance of this spiritual discipline. God draws us to Him, tells us about Himself, and then works in us as we read His Word.
Spiritual discipline would be a dedication or commitment to spiritual matters that grow us in relationship with God. Yes, God is the one who originates this relationship, as we would not know God unless He told us about Himself in the Bible. From nature, we can see that there has to be "something" that made everything, but that in itself does not tell us about the nature or characteristics of God.
So God tells us about Himself. As Christians, we believe that He does this through the Bible. The Bible is God's way of telling us about Himself. So, it would stand to reason, if we want to know more about God, or to understand Him more, we would do so by checking out what He tells us about Himself.
This is one big reason why pastors constantly encourage God's people to grow in their discipline of reading the Bible. It's the only place that we learn of God as a loving God, a merciful God, a forgiving God, a God who takes a very intense, personal interest in our lives. The spiritual discipline of reading God's Word is intended to guide us to a deeper relationship with God.
At the same time that we do that, the Bible tells us that God's Spirit does His work on us as we read. God's Spirit is the one who plants, grows, and nurtures faith in the Christian. When we read God's Word, the Spirit continues this work inside of us. So, even as we may engage in the action of reading, God is working to bring us into closer relationship with Him through the Spirit's work.
That's the importance of this spiritual discipline. God draws us to Him, tells us about Himself, and then works in us as we read His Word.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Types of Discipline
We have different thoughts come to mind when we hear the word discipline. This is also where you will see one of my biases come out. I dislike when we use terms without being specific about what we mean by them. So someone who just says, "I don't like discipline" without any further explanation irritates me because you don't really know what they mean when they say that.
That's why we will look at several different types of discipline over the next few posts. We use this word to mean a variety of things, and perhaps, as we think about what we mean by this word, we'll discover that not all discipline is what we think it is. We may even find that we practice certain kinds of discipline without even being aware of it. But overall, I hope to show how discipline finds its source and origin in God, and is a good thing that He puts into our lives.
So we will look at such things as physical discipline (after all, we are physical beings as God created us), spiritual discipline (since we also have a spirit, or spiritual component, to our existence), mental discipline (God has given us rational minds to think), and emotional discipline (God gave us emotions as part of our life in this world). We'll touch upon these, and my hope is that our look at discipline will help you more greatly appreciate this gift from God, as well as to put it in its proper place as we live life in this world as God's creation.
That's why we will look at several different types of discipline over the next few posts. We use this word to mean a variety of things, and perhaps, as we think about what we mean by this word, we'll discover that not all discipline is what we think it is. We may even find that we practice certain kinds of discipline without even being aware of it. But overall, I hope to show how discipline finds its source and origin in God, and is a good thing that He puts into our lives.
So we will look at such things as physical discipline (after all, we are physical beings as God created us), spiritual discipline (since we also have a spirit, or spiritual component, to our existence), mental discipline (God has given us rational minds to think), and emotional discipline (God gave us emotions as part of our life in this world). We'll touch upon these, and my hope is that our look at discipline will help you more greatly appreciate this gift from God, as well as to put it in its proper place as we live life in this world as God's creation.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Discipline
What do you think of when you hear the word discipline? For some, the thoughts may go toward punishment. For others, a particular person who lives very disciplined may come to mind. Thoughts of self-denial, or of pushing one's self are also possibilities.
I've been called a disciplined person by a few people in my time. Part of this is physical, which is necessary when one is a runner. 5 miles or more at least 5 days a week takes a deal of commitment, endurance, and mental stamina (yes, running is more mental than physical once you really get into it, but having great people who support and help, such as my wife and the people at the gym, help immensely). I'm also fairly disciplined with the use of my time. Pursuing a doctoral degree means devoting time to the work and reading and writing that is needed.
I have also found this discipline in my spiritual practices. Time devoted to reading and reflecting on God's Word is something I set aside each day. Prayer is included in that, as well. And then, I even spend time listening to music that is prayerlike and helps me to think about God.
Does this come easily? No. Discipline is hard work. It means that you have to set aside things that you might prefer (play games, watch TV, etc) in order to do what needs to be done. It can seem punishing, such as when I run and my feet pay the price, especially when breaking in a new pair of shoes. It can be difficult to establish, but once it is in place, it also brings great joy.
My thought is that this is the kind of discipline God speaks of in Hebrews 12, where the writer says that God disciplines us for our good. It's the same kind of discipline Paul speaks of in 1 Corinthians 9, where he says he disciplines his body for the work of the Gospel. Not punishment, but the endurance and commitment to devote one's self to God and His kingdom.
Does this match with your thoughts of discipline? We'll talk a bit about discipline over the next few posts.
I've been called a disciplined person by a few people in my time. Part of this is physical, which is necessary when one is a runner. 5 miles or more at least 5 days a week takes a deal of commitment, endurance, and mental stamina (yes, running is more mental than physical once you really get into it, but having great people who support and help, such as my wife and the people at the gym, help immensely). I'm also fairly disciplined with the use of my time. Pursuing a doctoral degree means devoting time to the work and reading and writing that is needed.
I have also found this discipline in my spiritual practices. Time devoted to reading and reflecting on God's Word is something I set aside each day. Prayer is included in that, as well. And then, I even spend time listening to music that is prayerlike and helps me to think about God.
Does this come easily? No. Discipline is hard work. It means that you have to set aside things that you might prefer (play games, watch TV, etc) in order to do what needs to be done. It can seem punishing, such as when I run and my feet pay the price, especially when breaking in a new pair of shoes. It can be difficult to establish, but once it is in place, it also brings great joy.
My thought is that this is the kind of discipline God speaks of in Hebrews 12, where the writer says that God disciplines us for our good. It's the same kind of discipline Paul speaks of in 1 Corinthians 9, where he says he disciplines his body for the work of the Gospel. Not punishment, but the endurance and commitment to devote one's self to God and His kingdom.
Does this match with your thoughts of discipline? We'll talk a bit about discipline over the next few posts.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Ashes to Ashes, Dust to Dust
Today is a special day for many Christian traditions. It's the first day of the season known as Lent. This day has traditionally been called Ash Wednesday.
So what is significant about this day? Well, a number of things, actually. Lent is a season based upon the 40 days of Jesus being tempted by Satan in the desert (see Bible readings such as Matthew 4), and echoes the forty years where Israel wandered in the wilderness due to their unbelief (see Numbers 13 and 14). If you count back from Easter 40 days (not including Sundays, which are found "in" Lent, but do not belong to the season), you come to today. The starting point of the season of Lent is always a Wednesday, which has become known as Ash Wednesday.
This holy day is one in which we remember that the cross of Jesus is the price of sin. We also are reminded that God is a consuming fire, who refines us as He burns away the bad and evil, which then purifies the good. We see a very clear picture of this in Malachi chapters 3 and 4, where we hear of God as a refining fire who burns away the stubble, that what is good may remain and be pure. Hence, we have the name Ash Wednesday, remembering that our sins are as ashes as we face God's purifying fire.
The good news is, God has completely burned away our sins in Jesus and the cross. Our sins have been reduced to ashes, and God makes us clean and pure through our belief that Jesus has done this for us. So today, as a reminder of that, many Christians will attend worship times at their local churches, where they receive a cross of ashes upon their foreheads as a reminder that they have been forgiven, and their sin is like ash because of Jesus.
So if you see someone today with a cross of ashes on their foreheads, you now know the meaning and significance of such a thing. My prayer is that all of us may know Christ's forgiveness through the cross, and that all our sins may be as ashes in the sight of God.
So what is significant about this day? Well, a number of things, actually. Lent is a season based upon the 40 days of Jesus being tempted by Satan in the desert (see Bible readings such as Matthew 4), and echoes the forty years where Israel wandered in the wilderness due to their unbelief (see Numbers 13 and 14). If you count back from Easter 40 days (not including Sundays, which are found "in" Lent, but do not belong to the season), you come to today. The starting point of the season of Lent is always a Wednesday, which has become known as Ash Wednesday.
This holy day is one in which we remember that the cross of Jesus is the price of sin. We also are reminded that God is a consuming fire, who refines us as He burns away the bad and evil, which then purifies the good. We see a very clear picture of this in Malachi chapters 3 and 4, where we hear of God as a refining fire who burns away the stubble, that what is good may remain and be pure. Hence, we have the name Ash Wednesday, remembering that our sins are as ashes as we face God's purifying fire.
The good news is, God has completely burned away our sins in Jesus and the cross. Our sins have been reduced to ashes, and God makes us clean and pure through our belief that Jesus has done this for us. So today, as a reminder of that, many Christians will attend worship times at their local churches, where they receive a cross of ashes upon their foreheads as a reminder that they have been forgiven, and their sin is like ash because of Jesus.
So if you see someone today with a cross of ashes on their foreheads, you now know the meaning and significance of such a thing. My prayer is that all of us may know Christ's forgiveness through the cross, and that all our sins may be as ashes in the sight of God.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Beads, Confession, and Pancakes: Oh my!
Okay, maybe I piqued your interest a little with the flashy title to today's entry. But then, it's a flashy time of year (please pardon the poor pun).
You may be familiar with the celebration of Mardi Gras at this time of year. People seem to flock to New Orleans and engage in a time of celebration (and a bit more) each year around this time. I'm not here to dwell on what all this celebration has come to be, but rather, to look at the meaning behind it.
Fat Tuesday and Mardi Gras are, in some respects, an observance of the Christian Church year. No, you won't look on any calendar in a church and see those days there, but their origin is based upon a long-standing church tradition. And this tradition all begins with a day known as Ash Wednesday (more on this tomorrow).
Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, which has long been observed in Christian churches throughout the world. This is a 40 day season (not including Sundays), drawn from Jesus' fasting and temptation for 40 days in the wilderness following His baptism, and echoing the Israelites' 40 year wandering in the desert.
This season of Lent is a season of repentance and observing our need for a Savior. One tradition that many follow is to "give up" something that is harmful in their life. Originally, the desire was to give up a sinful behavior, breaking the habit of it over the 40 day period.
Now, bringing this back to Fat Tuesday. Since many would give up a sinful behavior for the duration of Lent, the Tuesday before Lent would be an observance of their last "sinful" day. Sadly, that tradition has been perverted by some to actually engage in more sinful behavior and to simply have a wild time of it. But the origin was to remember the need for a Savior and to admit that need to God.
Thus, people were encouraged to go to their priest or pastor to make confession of their sin. Because there would be so many people coming, quite often, a meal would be organized. Especially in poorer regions, a simple meal was all that could prepared. Things like pancakes came to be seen as part of the meal, as people would eat together as they awaited their turn at the confessional.
Still today, many Christian traditions hold to this day called "Shrove Tuesday" (after having confessed and been forgiven, one is said to have been shriven of their sins, hence the name). Most enjoy a meal together, often consisting of pancakes. In some places, the opportunity for confession is still provided. This helps to prepare the soul for the observance of Lent and the journey to the cross.
Do you have any traditions relating to Shrove Tuesday (or even Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday)? Knowing the origin of this day, do you have any new thoughts about what you make of this day?
You may be familiar with the celebration of Mardi Gras at this time of year. People seem to flock to New Orleans and engage in a time of celebration (and a bit more) each year around this time. I'm not here to dwell on what all this celebration has come to be, but rather, to look at the meaning behind it.
Fat Tuesday and Mardi Gras are, in some respects, an observance of the Christian Church year. No, you won't look on any calendar in a church and see those days there, but their origin is based upon a long-standing church tradition. And this tradition all begins with a day known as Ash Wednesday (more on this tomorrow).
Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, which has long been observed in Christian churches throughout the world. This is a 40 day season (not including Sundays), drawn from Jesus' fasting and temptation for 40 days in the wilderness following His baptism, and echoing the Israelites' 40 year wandering in the desert.
This season of Lent is a season of repentance and observing our need for a Savior. One tradition that many follow is to "give up" something that is harmful in their life. Originally, the desire was to give up a sinful behavior, breaking the habit of it over the 40 day period.
Now, bringing this back to Fat Tuesday. Since many would give up a sinful behavior for the duration of Lent, the Tuesday before Lent would be an observance of their last "sinful" day. Sadly, that tradition has been perverted by some to actually engage in more sinful behavior and to simply have a wild time of it. But the origin was to remember the need for a Savior and to admit that need to God.
Thus, people were encouraged to go to their priest or pastor to make confession of their sin. Because there would be so many people coming, quite often, a meal would be organized. Especially in poorer regions, a simple meal was all that could prepared. Things like pancakes came to be seen as part of the meal, as people would eat together as they awaited their turn at the confessional.
Still today, many Christian traditions hold to this day called "Shrove Tuesday" (after having confessed and been forgiven, one is said to have been shriven of their sins, hence the name). Most enjoy a meal together, often consisting of pancakes. In some places, the opportunity for confession is still provided. This helps to prepare the soul for the observance of Lent and the journey to the cross.
Do you have any traditions relating to Shrove Tuesday (or even Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday)? Knowing the origin of this day, do you have any new thoughts about what you make of this day?
Monday, March 7, 2011
Christian Conversion, Morality, and Patience
Over the past week, we've been looking at morality, and how we can or cannot enforce morality upon others. My hope throughout has been to demonstrate that Christians take a wrong approach when we seek to simply change people's behaviors, as though doing so makes the Christian all of a sudden. Instead, issues of morality start deep inside a person, and spring forth from their beliefs. Hence, if Christians would like to see a more Christian morality in those around us, the proper course of action is not to enforce rules of behavior or morality upon them, but to seek to change their hearts and beliefs, a task which God alone can do.
In fact, God's Word of the Bible makes it clear that only God can do this work, and He does it through His Word which we speak. In Isaiah, we hear that fairly well-known set of verses in which God declares that He sends forth His Word, and it will accomplish the purpose for which He sends it. I see two matters at work here that we as Christians find difficult.
First is the reliance upon God's Word and Spirit to do the work of changing a person's heart. That doesn't seem like an effective way to work. We start to think that we have to answer people's every question perfectly, even if the Bible doesn't have anything specific to say on the subject of their question. But in the end, it is simply God's Word and Spirit that changes people. Our most eloquent and persuasive arguments do nothing to change the heart and beliefs of another. Only God's Spirit and Word do.
The second thing is that the change of heart and beliefs is not a fast and easy thing. True, there are some things that are more easily changed than others. But in the end, when God's Word and His Spirit have worked on a person's heart and changed them to belief in God, that's when a slow process begins, which calls for patience on our part. There will be struggles and questions that the person will have. There will most likely not be an instantaneous change in everything. We have to be willing to be patient, to walk with that person through the questions and struggles that arise as their faith is incorporated into their life.
Have you ever walked the long, slow road with a person whose heart and faith has been changed? What was it like? You probably have a lot of wisdom for the rest of us, which we would be wise to heed as God's Word continues to do its work through us.
In fact, God's Word of the Bible makes it clear that only God can do this work, and He does it through His Word which we speak. In Isaiah, we hear that fairly well-known set of verses in which God declares that He sends forth His Word, and it will accomplish the purpose for which He sends it. I see two matters at work here that we as Christians find difficult.
First is the reliance upon God's Word and Spirit to do the work of changing a person's heart. That doesn't seem like an effective way to work. We start to think that we have to answer people's every question perfectly, even if the Bible doesn't have anything specific to say on the subject of their question. But in the end, it is simply God's Word and Spirit that changes people. Our most eloquent and persuasive arguments do nothing to change the heart and beliefs of another. Only God's Spirit and Word do.
The second thing is that the change of heart and beliefs is not a fast and easy thing. True, there are some things that are more easily changed than others. But in the end, when God's Word and His Spirit have worked on a person's heart and changed them to belief in God, that's when a slow process begins, which calls for patience on our part. There will be struggles and questions that the person will have. There will most likely not be an instantaneous change in everything. We have to be willing to be patient, to walk with that person through the questions and struggles that arise as their faith is incorporated into their life.
Have you ever walked the long, slow road with a person whose heart and faith has been changed? What was it like? You probably have a lot of wisdom for the rest of us, which we would be wise to heed as God's Word continues to do its work through us.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
The Heart of Morality
The heart of how people think, act, and behave is in that person's set of beliefs about the world and their life. For instance, if I believe that I was created by a being that made, not only me, but everything which exists, then my belief about how to act in this world and think about this world will be guided by my belief in that being. If that being says to do certain things or refrain from certain things, I do so, because my belief in that being guides my thinking and behavior.
This gets to the heart of the difference between Christian morality and the morality of those who do not believe in God, or in Christ Jesus and His action of forgiving sins and rescuing us from a sinful existence. Christian morality is guided by what God reveals in the Bible as His Word. For those who do not believe this, having a morality enforced upon them which does not reflect their beliefs not only is wrong, but simply cannot be done in an effective manner.
So as Christians interact with the world around us, we may find that there are things about the morality of our surrounding culture that we believe to be wrong. However, the answer isn't to attempt to legislate some form of morality, or to impose our beliefs upon others to change their behavior. So, if that is the case, then what?
This gets back to how God changes people in the first place. First of all, it is the Holy Spirit's work to change the heart and soul (i.e., beliefs) of a person. We cannot believe unless God works that change in our mind and our heart. This, then, brings us into God's realm of existence, and draws us into what He says is good, right, and moral.
So when Christians encounter those who believe differently, we are not to work to change their behavior. Instead, we are to speak God's good news, His hope, His Word, to them, and let the Spirit do His work. Should the Spirit's work be evidenced in their lives by a change in their beliefs, then we have the opportunity and joy and struggle to show them what life is like as God's people live together.
In other words, the spread of Christian morality is based, first and foremost, upon the sharing of God's good news in the Gospel. Only when the Spirit changes another person's heart and soul can we then show them life as it is lived in God's kingdom and under His reign. And that is why sharing Christian morality is, above all, the sharing of hope, of the forgiveness of sins, and of the cross of Jesus.
This gets to the heart of the difference between Christian morality and the morality of those who do not believe in God, or in Christ Jesus and His action of forgiving sins and rescuing us from a sinful existence. Christian morality is guided by what God reveals in the Bible as His Word. For those who do not believe this, having a morality enforced upon them which does not reflect their beliefs not only is wrong, but simply cannot be done in an effective manner.
So as Christians interact with the world around us, we may find that there are things about the morality of our surrounding culture that we believe to be wrong. However, the answer isn't to attempt to legislate some form of morality, or to impose our beliefs upon others to change their behavior. So, if that is the case, then what?
This gets back to how God changes people in the first place. First of all, it is the Holy Spirit's work to change the heart and soul (i.e., beliefs) of a person. We cannot believe unless God works that change in our mind and our heart. This, then, brings us into God's realm of existence, and draws us into what He says is good, right, and moral.
So when Christians encounter those who believe differently, we are not to work to change their behavior. Instead, we are to speak God's good news, His hope, His Word, to them, and let the Spirit do His work. Should the Spirit's work be evidenced in their lives by a change in their beliefs, then we have the opportunity and joy and struggle to show them what life is like as God's people live together.
In other words, the spread of Christian morality is based, first and foremost, upon the sharing of God's good news in the Gospel. Only when the Spirit changes another person's heart and soul can we then show them life as it is lived in God's kingdom and under His reign. And that is why sharing Christian morality is, above all, the sharing of hope, of the forgiveness of sins, and of the cross of Jesus.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Morality and the Masses
Christians share a common morality with one another, based upon God's Word. However, as we move outside of the circle of those who share a common faith, we began to encounter some difficulty. How much of what we believe constitutes good morality can we expect or demand of someone who doesn't share a common faith?
Sadly, it seems that there are many Christians who would prefer to impose morality upon those who are not part of the Christian faith. For example, Christians tend to believe that a man and woman should not engage in sexual activity prior to marriage. When we see a fellow Christian considering this, we have a common basis upon which to engage their behavior: God's Word in the Bible. But if this same person is not a fellow Christian, what basis do we have to impose such a belief and morality?
The heart of morality is determined by a person's beliefs. For the Christian, these beliefs are informed by God's Word in the Bible. To impose these same morals upon someone who does not share the same foundation is, quite frankly, wrong. It assumes a common basis that is not present. And even further, God's Word does not say that His people are to impose behavior and morality upon those who do not share a common faith.
So how does a Christian interact with those who do not share their faith, especially when it comes to moral issues? This is where the Spirit's work of conversion enters the picture. More on this tomorrow.
Again, thoughts, comments, and ramblings welcome!
Sadly, it seems that there are many Christians who would prefer to impose morality upon those who are not part of the Christian faith. For example, Christians tend to believe that a man and woman should not engage in sexual activity prior to marriage. When we see a fellow Christian considering this, we have a common basis upon which to engage their behavior: God's Word in the Bible. But if this same person is not a fellow Christian, what basis do we have to impose such a belief and morality?
The heart of morality is determined by a person's beliefs. For the Christian, these beliefs are informed by God's Word in the Bible. To impose these same morals upon someone who does not share the same foundation is, quite frankly, wrong. It assumes a common basis that is not present. And even further, God's Word does not say that His people are to impose behavior and morality upon those who do not share a common faith.
So how does a Christian interact with those who do not share their faith, especially when it comes to moral issues? This is where the Spirit's work of conversion enters the picture. More on this tomorrow.
Again, thoughts, comments, and ramblings welcome!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Morality and Behavior
In yesterday's blog entry, I said that the Christian cannot impose his/her morality upon those who are not Christian. Instead, Christians do have an obligation to one another to uphold what God lays out as guides for living. The disclaimer to this is that, as Paul says in Romans 7, we're constantly fighting the sin that lives in us. This keeps us from truly being able to live a life according to God's standards.
Yet, it is easy for us to say something like, "Well, I'm not supposed to judge another person, even or especially a fellow Christian." True, we are not called to judge them, since that would be to place ourselves in a position of authority over them, which we do not have. But we are to call to attention those areas where God has an explicit word, and which tears down the bonds of Christian love and fellowship. This is not us judging the other, but rather, speaking God's Word and letting God do the judging.
Now, different Christians interpret different criteria that their fellow Christians need to uphold. I truly have no problem with this, though often we can enforce morality upon one another that is merely a good idea, and not technically Scripture based. In the end, when Christians uphold some form of "Christian morality" upon one another, they are always to be led by what God's Word says.
The final note on this involves the manner in which this is approached. We are never to approach one another as though the one who needs the correction is inferior to the one doing the correcting. Instead, love, gentleness, and compassion are to be key attitudes when it comes to helping a fellow Christian in a matter of morality in which they struggle. Yes, this does sometimes involve being fairly strict (i.e. 1 Corinthians 5), but in all issues of morality or behavior, the desired end is reconciliation and restoration, not the feeding of one's ego.
Yet, it is easy for us to say something like, "Well, I'm not supposed to judge another person, even or especially a fellow Christian." True, we are not called to judge them, since that would be to place ourselves in a position of authority over them, which we do not have. But we are to call to attention those areas where God has an explicit word, and which tears down the bonds of Christian love and fellowship. This is not us judging the other, but rather, speaking God's Word and letting God do the judging.
Now, different Christians interpret different criteria that their fellow Christians need to uphold. I truly have no problem with this, though often we can enforce morality upon one another that is merely a good idea, and not technically Scripture based. In the end, when Christians uphold some form of "Christian morality" upon one another, they are always to be led by what God's Word says.
The final note on this involves the manner in which this is approached. We are never to approach one another as though the one who needs the correction is inferior to the one doing the correcting. Instead, love, gentleness, and compassion are to be key attitudes when it comes to helping a fellow Christian in a matter of morality in which they struggle. Yes, this does sometimes involve being fairly strict (i.e. 1 Corinthians 5), but in all issues of morality or behavior, the desired end is reconciliation and restoration, not the feeding of one's ego.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Enforcing Christian Morality
In my continued efforts to bring clarity to my thinking, you will likely see a bit about how my mind works in this post. I have a hard time when I'm as scattered as my thinking has been on "morality" in general. Again, most of this scatteredness will probably become evident in the next few posts.
However, on with the topic! The morality a Christian follows, though imperfectly, is one that is driven by faith and belief in God. Through His Word, God has set forth what the conduct and thinking of a Christian would ideally be. While a Christian, changed by the Holy Spirit into belief, takes on this morality, (s)he does so imperfectly (that darn sinful nature thing still works against us, even after we have been claimed by God).
This means that Christians can hold one another to certain types of standards. Again, we will do this imperfectly because of the continual battle against the devil and our inherited sinfulness. But, in general, Christians have the obligation to uphold certain standards of morality.
Where this topic gets tricky is when the Christian encounters the person who does not share a Christian faith. My assertion is that Christians CANNOT enforce Christian morality upon a someone who is not a fellow believer. Tomorrow's post will dig a little deeper into this topic.
Again, thoughts, comments, questions welcomed.
However, on with the topic! The morality a Christian follows, though imperfectly, is one that is driven by faith and belief in God. Through His Word, God has set forth what the conduct and thinking of a Christian would ideally be. While a Christian, changed by the Holy Spirit into belief, takes on this morality, (s)he does so imperfectly (that darn sinful nature thing still works against us, even after we have been claimed by God).
This means that Christians can hold one another to certain types of standards. Again, we will do this imperfectly because of the continual battle against the devil and our inherited sinfulness. But, in general, Christians have the obligation to uphold certain standards of morality.
Where this topic gets tricky is when the Christian encounters the person who does not share a Christian faith. My assertion is that Christians CANNOT enforce Christian morality upon a someone who is not a fellow believer. Tomorrow's post will dig a little deeper into this topic.
Again, thoughts, comments, questions welcomed.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
God, Faith, and Morality
I've been reading a book entitled "UnChristian" recently. It's part of a regular learning community that I participate in. I read this book a couple of years ago, and have been re-reading it for a discussion with my group. It has elicited a number of different thoughts in my head that I am trying to put together in some sort of order. So, over these next few blog posts, you will get to see what I am working out in my mind, both from a standpoint of what the Bible says and from what it means for Christians as they share the Good News of Jesus. So please feel free to add thoughts, suggestions, or even questions to add to the discussion.
I guess the best place to start this thought process is a question. What is primary about the Christian faith: belief or behavioral change? This is the question that will form the basis for the next several days' worth of blog posts.
The reason I am bouncing this question around in my head is because the book I've been reading is one based on research led by the Barna group. While I always take statistics with a healthy few grains of salt, the author, David Kinnaman, points out something that was really disturbing to me. It seems that a majority of Christians come across to non-Christians as people who are more interested in a certain set of behaviors rather than a firm faith in Jesus.
That's the assertion that has me thinking. Do we, as Christians, emphasize behavior change over the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a person? Do we have the cart before the horse in that regard? I won't deny that faith and how we live our lives are very closely tied together, but do we perhaps focus on the wrong one as the primary one? And if so, what is the corrective?
So if the next few days sound like I'm rambling, it's because I'm working these out in my head. I hope you'll jump into the discussion, and perhaps even give me a few more thoughts to add to the confusion!
I guess the best place to start this thought process is a question. What is primary about the Christian faith: belief or behavioral change? This is the question that will form the basis for the next several days' worth of blog posts.
The reason I am bouncing this question around in my head is because the book I've been reading is one based on research led by the Barna group. While I always take statistics with a healthy few grains of salt, the author, David Kinnaman, points out something that was really disturbing to me. It seems that a majority of Christians come across to non-Christians as people who are more interested in a certain set of behaviors rather than a firm faith in Jesus.
That's the assertion that has me thinking. Do we, as Christians, emphasize behavior change over the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a person? Do we have the cart before the horse in that regard? I won't deny that faith and how we live our lives are very closely tied together, but do we perhaps focus on the wrong one as the primary one? And if so, what is the corrective?
So if the next few days sound like I'm rambling, it's because I'm working these out in my head. I hope you'll jump into the discussion, and perhaps even give me a few more thoughts to add to the confusion!
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