Well, my friends, it has certainly been fun sharing these thoughts with you. I hope I’ve at least stimulated you with this small manual to go out there and seek more information. I hope you can see how the gifts God gave, the interests you have, the culture you engage in, and the time and treasures God has blessed you with can all be used in service toward our loving Father, for whom we owe everything. It’s a joy to be able to do His will. It’s an honor that God will use us to tell His message of love and salvation to others who have yet to believe.
Remember to have fun, too. God wants good things for our life. God wants everyone to come to know and believe in Him and share in His warm and loving embrace. It’s just this darn sin that gets in the way in the form of selfishness, stubborn pride, greed, laziness, and the list goes on. While you will have some challenges, no doubt, some trials and setbacks perhaps, you will also experience love, joy, and peace that passes all understanding in knowing, really knowing, you are fulfilling your purpose in this world. Big or small, it all counts in God’s book.
Go at your pace, too. If you are excited and all revved up to go and share your witness – great! Be purpose driven. Just don’t let your drive burn out your purpose. All that means is simply share your witness as you feel called. Don’t think you have to witness to X number of people per day and that if you don’t you are some how failing God. Get started, yes, but don’t torment yourself by setting some unrealistic goal. There are no set numbers of people you need to witness to. Sure, everyone you meet is a potential person to share with but at the same time don’t beat yourself up and become discouraged if you don’t witness to every person you meet. I want to encourage, yes. I want to get you started, yes. But I don’t want to burn you out either. Again, simply go at your own pace.
So go and serve the Lord in joy and gladness, my friends. And I’ll see you at the movies (or a concert, or an art gallery, or a...you get the picture) with Bible in hand and a prayer in my heart.
We started with the Great Commission. That’s where it is for all of us. Our purpose. Our life. Don’t forget. Let’s repeat it again, shall we?
Jesus says to us: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this—I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Amen.
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Monday, May 05, 2008
Inspiration, Resources, Examples, and Ideas (12) - Getting Down to Business
Business Idea: Create a T-Shirt company
I always thought putting messages on T-shirts would be a great way to get people to come up to you rather than you going up to them. Once they read some crazy saying on your T-shirt and ask you, “What the heck does that mean?”, then there’s your open door. I’m too busy writing to start my own T-shirt company so feel free to use any of the following sayings to make your own shirts:
· Saint & Sinner
· Want to Join the Acts 1:8 Club?
· Truth + Love = Jesus
· Epaphroditus In Training (See Philippians 2)
· God is Not a Salad Bar (my favorite)
· Spirituality without God = Self Indulgence
· Don’t Be a Sardis (See Revelation 3)
· Look Straight Ahead (See Proverbs 4:23-27 on guarding your heart and concentrating on desires that keep us on the right path)
· Jesus Wept
· #1 Sinner -or- Chief of Sinners
· Jesus was Homeless
· Nothing New Under the Sun (See Ecclesiastes)
· Hope Now...Heaven Later
· Letting My Light Shine (bright yellow shirt)
· A Time for Everything (See Ecclesiastes)
· If you wait for perfect conditions, you’ll never get anything done. Eccl. 11:4
· Ask not how Jesus can serve you. Ask how you can serve Jesus.
· We may throw the dice, but the Lord determines how they fallProv. 16:33
· We All Believe In Something
· Be the one! Luke 17:11-19 (This is in reference to the ten lepers whom Jesus healed but only one came back to thank Jesus. Be thankful!)
· Not in Charge
Okay, so if you’re going to do something like this, be bold. Pick bright, vibrant colors for your shirts like canary yellow and lime green and use solid, block letters in bright colors too. Just make sure your eyes don’t hurt when you look at the shirt. And if you are not sure what those slogans above really mean and want an explanation for any of them, good! The idea is to get people talking and we might as well start with you. Think about them, though, and make your explanation your own.
A Merger Between Business and Faith – Books to Explore
“Jesus, CEO,” by Laurie Beth Jones and others in her series talk about applying the teachings of Christ in your work (and in your life).
“God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life,” by Gene Edward Veith, Jr., goes beyond just work and addresses the Christian’s total calling: in family life, church, citizenship, and vocation.
“Great Commission Companies: The Emerging Role of Business in Missions,” by Steve L. Rundle and Tom A. Steffon.
The Facts on Witnessing at Work
Can Christians get busted for witnessing at work? There are certain guidelines for you seed planters out there gearing up to share your faith with your co-workers. Go for it, but take a look at this article by David C. Gibbs, Jr., President of The Christian Law Association, for some tips on what to be aware of concerning, “The Legal Implications of Witnessing at Work,” (Source – “Christianity Today,” October 29, 2004).
Go to “Christianity Today’s” website (or FaithInTheWorkplace.com and do a search for that title to find the article or try the following URL: http://www.christianitytoday.com/workplace/articles/legalimplications.html
Combining Your Business with God’s Business
Do you own your own business? What might be some ways to integrate your faith and let your light shine while serving both the business needs and spiritual needs of your customers? Many businesses proudly display the “fish” symbol for Christ in their signage, business cards, and other forms of identity.
In one business, the owner takes their outreach a step further and offers prayer along with a cup of coffee. The “Chit-n-Chat Coffee House” in Waukee, Iowa often receives prayer requests from their customers as they place a coffee order. Kate Boettcher looks at her coffee house as “a way to bring Christ to our customers without being preachy.” She has a Bible verse-of-the-day on the chalkboard for people to ask questions about, and, through word-of-mouth only, has become a place known for good coffee, friendly people, and an offer of prayer for those who want it.
Turns out, many people do.
(Source: “Would You Like Prayer with that Latte?” in “Today’s Christian Woman,” March/April 2004, Vol. 26, No. 2, by Jared VanHorn.) Read the full article at: www.christianitytoday.com/tcw/2004/002/16.58.html
Changing the World, One Cup at a Time
Here’s a great idea – create a business whose purpose is not to make money for itself, but whose sole purpose is to use its profits to fund charitable projects.
That’s just what founders John Sage and Chris Dearnley did. As it says on their website: “Believing that the principles of capitalism could be applied to the non-profit sector, they developed Pura Vida Coffee as a "funding engine" to support the charitable programs of Pura Vida Partners, a non-profit organization. Pura Vida Coffee sells Fair Trade, organic coffee throughout the United States and uses all of its resources for charitable purposes. Through this model, our co-founders sought to bring hope to at-risk children in Costa Rica – where Pura Vida’s charitable activity began – and to inspire a new generation of consumers and business leaders who believe that capitalism can be used as an engine for social good.”
If only more businesses operated on that principle. If you like coffee, and I know a lot of you Starbucks junkies out there do – check out the Pura Vida website and even buy a few bags of coffee. They support “fair trade” coffee so that you know the coffee growers are getting a fair price for their coffee beans and you’ll also be supporting the Pura Vida efforts to help the children of Costa Rica while enjoying some darn good coffee. Read the rest of the mission and goals at: www.puravidacoffee.com
I always thought putting messages on T-shirts would be a great way to get people to come up to you rather than you going up to them. Once they read some crazy saying on your T-shirt and ask you, “What the heck does that mean?”, then there’s your open door. I’m too busy writing to start my own T-shirt company so feel free to use any of the following sayings to make your own shirts:
· Saint & Sinner
· Want to Join the Acts 1:8 Club?
· Truth + Love = Jesus
· Epaphroditus In Training (See Philippians 2)
· God is Not a Salad Bar (my favorite)
· Spirituality without God = Self Indulgence
· Don’t Be a Sardis (See Revelation 3)
· Look Straight Ahead (See Proverbs 4:23-27 on guarding your heart and concentrating on desires that keep us on the right path)
· Jesus Wept
· #1 Sinner -or- Chief of Sinners
· Jesus was Homeless
· Nothing New Under the Sun (See Ecclesiastes)
· Hope Now...Heaven Later
· Letting My Light Shine (bright yellow shirt)
· A Time for Everything (See Ecclesiastes)
· If you wait for perfect conditions, you’ll never get anything done. Eccl. 11:4
· Ask not how Jesus can serve you. Ask how you can serve Jesus.
· We may throw the dice, but the Lord determines how they fallProv. 16:33
· We All Believe In Something
· Be the one! Luke 17:11-19 (This is in reference to the ten lepers whom Jesus healed but only one came back to thank Jesus. Be thankful!)
· Not in Charge
Okay, so if you’re going to do something like this, be bold. Pick bright, vibrant colors for your shirts like canary yellow and lime green and use solid, block letters in bright colors too. Just make sure your eyes don’t hurt when you look at the shirt. And if you are not sure what those slogans above really mean and want an explanation for any of them, good! The idea is to get people talking and we might as well start with you. Think about them, though, and make your explanation your own.
A Merger Between Business and Faith – Books to Explore
“Jesus, CEO,” by Laurie Beth Jones and others in her series talk about applying the teachings of Christ in your work (and in your life).
“God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life,” by Gene Edward Veith, Jr., goes beyond just work and addresses the Christian’s total calling: in family life, church, citizenship, and vocation.
“Great Commission Companies: The Emerging Role of Business in Missions,” by Steve L. Rundle and Tom A. Steffon.
The Facts on Witnessing at Work
Can Christians get busted for witnessing at work? There are certain guidelines for you seed planters out there gearing up to share your faith with your co-workers. Go for it, but take a look at this article by David C. Gibbs, Jr., President of The Christian Law Association, for some tips on what to be aware of concerning, “The Legal Implications of Witnessing at Work,” (Source – “Christianity Today,” October 29, 2004).
Go to “Christianity Today’s” website (or FaithInTheWorkplace.com and do a search for that title to find the article or try the following URL: http://www.christianitytoday.com/workplace/articles/legalimplications.html
Combining Your Business with God’s Business
Do you own your own business? What might be some ways to integrate your faith and let your light shine while serving both the business needs and spiritual needs of your customers? Many businesses proudly display the “fish” symbol for Christ in their signage, business cards, and other forms of identity.
In one business, the owner takes their outreach a step further and offers prayer along with a cup of coffee. The “Chit-n-Chat Coffee House” in Waukee, Iowa often receives prayer requests from their customers as they place a coffee order. Kate Boettcher looks at her coffee house as “a way to bring Christ to our customers without being preachy.” She has a Bible verse-of-the-day on the chalkboard for people to ask questions about, and, through word-of-mouth only, has become a place known for good coffee, friendly people, and an offer of prayer for those who want it.
Turns out, many people do.
(Source: “Would You Like Prayer with that Latte?” in “Today’s Christian Woman,” March/April 2004, Vol. 26, No. 2, by Jared VanHorn.) Read the full article at: www.christianitytoday.com/tcw/2004/002/16.58.html
Changing the World, One Cup at a Time
Here’s a great idea – create a business whose purpose is not to make money for itself, but whose sole purpose is to use its profits to fund charitable projects.
That’s just what founders John Sage and Chris Dearnley did. As it says on their website: “Believing that the principles of capitalism could be applied to the non-profit sector, they developed Pura Vida Coffee as a "funding engine" to support the charitable programs of Pura Vida Partners, a non-profit organization. Pura Vida Coffee sells Fair Trade, organic coffee throughout the United States and uses all of its resources for charitable purposes. Through this model, our co-founders sought to bring hope to at-risk children in Costa Rica – where Pura Vida’s charitable activity began – and to inspire a new generation of consumers and business leaders who believe that capitalism can be used as an engine for social good.”
If only more businesses operated on that principle. If you like coffee, and I know a lot of you Starbucks junkies out there do – check out the Pura Vida website and even buy a few bags of coffee. They support “fair trade” coffee so that you know the coffee growers are getting a fair price for their coffee beans and you’ll also be supporting the Pura Vida efforts to help the children of Costa Rica while enjoying some darn good coffee. Read the rest of the mission and goals at: www.puravidacoffee.com
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Inspiration, Resources, Examples, and Ideas (9)
Originally, I was going to add an appendix of books, movies, websites, and other resources for you to use as tools to give you ideas on how to utilize and integrate the culture of our world into your witness. But as I started stockpiling these books, articles, and websites, I realized I was becoming more and more inspired, more and more excited to start writing Planting Seeds because I was seeing all these wonderful examples of people using their talents and interests to share their love of Jesus. And I was reading all of these great books from people who are really digging deep into the significance and meaning of finding God in popular culture. A simple laundry list appendix wouldn't do justice to the joy of discovery I felt as I collected and read through all this material (which really only scratches the surface of what is out there). And so, I present this next section as kind of a snapshot of my journey in researching some of the content for this book. The collection of material you will read next I hope will inspire you, give you ideas, set you off in a new direction for how to share your faith, and confirm in you the talents and interests you have to use, as well as let you know that you are part of God’s family, that we are all together in Christ, and that you are not alone.
You have a purpose, as we all do, to share the message of salvation in Jesus through His ultimate sacrifice on the cross. It’s an exciting message to share and, as I hope you’ve seen already, and will see even more as you read on, there are many ways to share that message. I also hope that the snipets you read here will inspire you to seek out the full article or pick up the book, see the movie, listen to the music, and dig deeper within yourself as God’s will for your life continues to unfold in its many faceted ways.
So skip around, poke here and there, and enjoy, be inspired, and go plant some seeds.
Guerilla Christianity – Seed Planters Among Us
As you read on, you’ll see I’ve created general categories such as Movies, Music, Business, Books, and so on, but it’s no so tightly organized that everything is separated and swept off into their own little corner. Take this chapter as a whole, sure, or skip around, but make sure you sample a little bit of everything. I mean, when you go to the salad bar, you’re not just dumping lettuce and dressing on the plate. No, try a little pasta, some cheese, perhaps a bit of coleslaw, and don’t forget to go back for some fruit. You never know what might catch your eye. Ready? Go fill your plate.
More on “How do I Get Started Planting Seeds?”
Ask Questions
Sometimes the best response to a question about your faith is not an answer but a question back. Take a cue from Jesus, He was a pro at it. When religious leaders asked Jesus if it was right to pay taxes, Jesus referred to a coin and asked, “Whose portrait is this?” (Matthew 22:17-22) – just one example.
Responding to a question like, “Are all people but Christians going to hell?” with a question such as, “Do you believe in hell?” instead of just giving a flat, “Yes,” will allow for a more open, non-defensive dialog, and open up areas of discussion both of you might not have considered. The style of asking questions to questions makes both sides better listeners, too, rather than having one-sided conversations, or conversations where the other person is not listening but instead is just waiting for their turn to speak again.
To learn more about this style of evangelism, check out the book, “Questioning Evangelism: Engaging People's Hearts the Way Jesus Did,” by Randy Newman.
Responding to Basic Objections
For anyone who has shared their faith with the world, there’s always the objections that come with it – “Christians are narrow-minded,” “Being good is all that matters,” “What about those who have never heard about Jesus?,” etc., etc. These scary questions are probably part of the reason that people either, a) stop trying to be seed planters, or b) don’t even try in the first place for fear of getting a question they can’t answer. Just know this, IT WILL HAPPEN. But you know what? It doesn’t matter if you really think about it. We are all works in progress. We are all continually learning and growing in our faith. And that is just the point. Keep learning. You WANT those questions so that you can go back and learn how to respond. It’s okay to tell your potential witness-ee that you don’t understand everything but at least you’re open to learning about it and maybe together you can both explore what the Bible says on those tough questions. So let ‘em come, that’s part of the growing and learning process. And you know Jesus is always at your side. Even when your tongue gets tied He’ll reach over and unknot that slippery mess for you.
And never fear, there are always additional resources out there to help you (but why not start with your pastor and have him put together a little cheat sheet for you to study). Plenty of books address the issues of how to answer those tough questions. And there’s plenty of free information on the web, too (I always start there, why not, it’s free?). There’s a great little article on the web (Where? “Christianity Today,” of course) called, “10 Objections to Christianity and How to Respond,” and the author (Frank Harber) also lists several books and websites at the end of his article for further exploration.
Follow the link: www.christianitytoday.com/tcw/2000/002/7.62.html. (Source – “Christianity Today International/Today’s Christian Woman” magazine, March/April 2000, Vol. 22, No. 2).
Right In Your Back Yard
Well, maybe not your back yard, but at least your surrounding neighborhood is a great place to start sharing your faith. You don’t want to start off going door-to-door like a salesman selling Jesus and salvation for only $19.95, but you can look for opportunities to strike up a conversation.
The key to doing it is pretty simple.
Yep, I’m going to bring up the Nike ad again: “Just do it.” Nothing will happen unless you try. Being an example to your neighbors is a good start but talking to them is where the witness really beings. Consider throwing a party in your neighborhood. We’re not talking a big blow-out Hawaiian BBQ and kegger party, but maybe a Get Acquainted party, or a Christmas party (you’ll want to make sure, of course, that you do this around Nov.-Dec and not in July. Though, a Christmas-In-July party might be kinda fun.) Whatever the type of party, you might have the opportunity to share a little bit about your faith – something that’s important to you – instead of how the local baseball or football team is doing currently.
Like any type of witnessing, getting over the fears is the first part – “I’m not an evangelist,” “I don’t know how to talk to people I don’t know,” “I’m not outgoing,” etc.
Baloney.
Remember, Seed Planter, find a common interest with your neighbor. Movies, music, sports, whatever, – think of ways to bring up your faith within these conversations. Neighbor, stranger, partner, friend, co-worker, etc. All need to hear the saving words of Christ’s salvation.
Why not start with the person next door?
(Source: Witnessing to Neighbors, by Jim Killiam, in “Christianity Today International/Marriage Partnership” magazine, Summer 2002, Vol. 19, No. 2).
Also check out: “Neighborhood Ideas for Caring,” by Naomi Frizzell and “The Complete Handbook of Everyday Christianity,” edited by Robert Banks and R. Paul Stevens.
Little Things
Earlier we talked about some of the simple things you can do in fulfilling God’s purpose to spread the Good News. I don’t know about you, but I forget half of what I read about, so before we jump into the examples of others, I just wanted to present a list of “little things” you can do to get started. Whether you are shy, a procrastinator, unsure of how to begin, here are some things anyone can do – immediately.
1) Remember, we talked about using your Time for God first and for others, and lastly yourself. It bears repeating. Whether in your church, with a volunteer group, or simply praying for others, use your most precious commodity – time (which you can never get back), for God. Get into the habit of thinking each morning, How can I serve God today?, before thinking of work, chores, family, bills, entertainment, etc. (It goes without saying the same applies to using your Treasure, not to mention your Talents, for God first.)
2) Leave Behinds. You can pick up Bible tracts from your church or various ministry websites and Christian bookstores. You can also pick up a box of little crosses that have a Bible verse on them or that simply say, “God Loves You.” When you’re out at a restaurant, leave a cross with the tip. When you’re out shopping, leave a tract on a shelf. Sure it may be tossed, but God can also lead a person to come by after you and pick it up casually to see what it is. Who knows? Don’t limit the Holy Spirit. Be His messenger. Start leaving that paper trail.
3) Volunteer. This falls under the “using your time” category, but I want to ask you – do you go to church on Sunday, maybe attend a Bible study (or not), and then go back to your life? Do you volunteer your time in a church activity? You say no one asks you to do anything? My next question to you then is, why are you waiting for someone to ask? Bring something to the table. Tell the church leaders you have a desire to serve the Lord in...whatever. Lead a Bible Study. Be a greeter before the service. Start a prayer circle. Bake some goodies to munch on after the service (we Lutherans love doughnuts, but cakes and cookies are just fine, too). And not just at church. Volunteer in a Christian organization. Or better yet, a non-Christian organization where you can be that light to share God’s word as you get to know people in your group. The bottom line is, don’t wait to be asked to do something. Be proactive and act first. Just do it.
4) Be available. Next time you are on a plane, be friendly and open up a conversation with the person seated next to you. Bring up the latest movie you saw, see where it takes you and how the Holy Spirit will make an opening for you to share your story. Get to know your neighbors (See, “Right In Your Back Yard” above). Do you know them – one or two houses down? Bring over a plate of cookies and just say “Hi.” See where it takes you. How about visiting the sick or elderly? There may be programs or groups that organize visits, but how about just showing up? What about handing out Bibles or giving them as gifts to people you know? Look for ways to just...be available, and pray for direction and strength for God to lead you. He will.
5) Check Please! Here’s another little seed planting idea I thought I’d toss in to get you started. It’s kind of like a “leave-behind” but not quite. Next time you pay a bill with a check or buy something at the local store with a check, use the “Note” section at the bottom left and write in a Bible verse, like John 3:16, or just leave a note that says, “Jesus Loves You.” Most of the time we leave it blank, unless you’re writing in your account numbers, but why not leave a note for the receiver, whoever that is, and let the Holy Spirit work it from there!
6) Public prayer. No way, you say! Yes way, I say. Prayer is powerful. You know that. By simply doing what you do anyway, but in a public forum, the power of the Holy Spirit will spill over into all who witness you speaking to your Holy Father. Am I talking about walking out into the middle of a busy intersection with a bullhorn and letting it rip? No. But what about simply praying a prayer of thanks the next time you are in a restaurant and the food is delivered? Bowing your head, taking the hand of the person you are dining with, and speaking in a normal, regular voice a prayer of thanks. You will send a powerful message to those sitting around you and again, the Holy Spirit is at work. Just give Him the opportunity.
Are you a Planter or a Harvester?
Look around you! Vast fields are ripening all around us and are ready now for the harvest. The harvesters are paid good wages, and the fruit they harvest is people brought to eternal life. What joy awaits both the planter and the harvester alike!
You know the saying, ‘One person plants and someone else harvests.’ And it’s true I sent you to harvest where you didn’t plant; others had already done the work, and you will gather the harvest. John 4:35a-38
You have a purpose, as we all do, to share the message of salvation in Jesus through His ultimate sacrifice on the cross. It’s an exciting message to share and, as I hope you’ve seen already, and will see even more as you read on, there are many ways to share that message. I also hope that the snipets you read here will inspire you to seek out the full article or pick up the book, see the movie, listen to the music, and dig deeper within yourself as God’s will for your life continues to unfold in its many faceted ways.
So skip around, poke here and there, and enjoy, be inspired, and go plant some seeds.
Guerilla Christianity – Seed Planters Among Us
As you read on, you’ll see I’ve created general categories such as Movies, Music, Business, Books, and so on, but it’s no so tightly organized that everything is separated and swept off into their own little corner. Take this chapter as a whole, sure, or skip around, but make sure you sample a little bit of everything. I mean, when you go to the salad bar, you’re not just dumping lettuce and dressing on the plate. No, try a little pasta, some cheese, perhaps a bit of coleslaw, and don’t forget to go back for some fruit. You never know what might catch your eye. Ready? Go fill your plate.
Everybody Has Something To Offer
God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well...Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically. Romans 12: 6a & 11
More on “How do I Get Started Planting Seeds?”
Ask Questions
Sometimes the best response to a question about your faith is not an answer but a question back. Take a cue from Jesus, He was a pro at it. When religious leaders asked Jesus if it was right to pay taxes, Jesus referred to a coin and asked, “Whose portrait is this?” (Matthew 22:17-22) – just one example.
Responding to a question like, “Are all people but Christians going to hell?” with a question such as, “Do you believe in hell?” instead of just giving a flat, “Yes,” will allow for a more open, non-defensive dialog, and open up areas of discussion both of you might not have considered. The style of asking questions to questions makes both sides better listeners, too, rather than having one-sided conversations, or conversations where the other person is not listening but instead is just waiting for their turn to speak again.
To learn more about this style of evangelism, check out the book, “Questioning Evangelism: Engaging People's Hearts the Way Jesus Did,” by Randy Newman.
Responding to Basic Objections
For anyone who has shared their faith with the world, there’s always the objections that come with it – “Christians are narrow-minded,” “Being good is all that matters,” “What about those who have never heard about Jesus?,” etc., etc. These scary questions are probably part of the reason that people either, a) stop trying to be seed planters, or b) don’t even try in the first place for fear of getting a question they can’t answer. Just know this, IT WILL HAPPEN. But you know what? It doesn’t matter if you really think about it. We are all works in progress. We are all continually learning and growing in our faith. And that is just the point. Keep learning. You WANT those questions so that you can go back and learn how to respond. It’s okay to tell your potential witness-ee that you don’t understand everything but at least you’re open to learning about it and maybe together you can both explore what the Bible says on those tough questions. So let ‘em come, that’s part of the growing and learning process. And you know Jesus is always at your side. Even when your tongue gets tied He’ll reach over and unknot that slippery mess for you.
And never fear, there are always additional resources out there to help you (but why not start with your pastor and have him put together a little cheat sheet for you to study). Plenty of books address the issues of how to answer those tough questions. And there’s plenty of free information on the web, too (I always start there, why not, it’s free?). There’s a great little article on the web (Where? “Christianity Today,” of course) called, “10 Objections to Christianity and How to Respond,” and the author (Frank Harber) also lists several books and websites at the end of his article for further exploration.
Follow the link: www.christianitytoday.com/tcw/2000/002/7.62.html. (Source – “Christianity Today International/Today’s Christian Woman” magazine, March/April 2000, Vol. 22, No. 2).
Right In Your Back Yard
Well, maybe not your back yard, but at least your surrounding neighborhood is a great place to start sharing your faith. You don’t want to start off going door-to-door like a salesman selling Jesus and salvation for only $19.95, but you can look for opportunities to strike up a conversation.
The key to doing it is pretty simple.
Yep, I’m going to bring up the Nike ad again: “Just do it.” Nothing will happen unless you try. Being an example to your neighbors is a good start but talking to them is where the witness really beings. Consider throwing a party in your neighborhood. We’re not talking a big blow-out Hawaiian BBQ and kegger party, but maybe a Get Acquainted party, or a Christmas party (you’ll want to make sure, of course, that you do this around Nov.-Dec and not in July. Though, a Christmas-In-July party might be kinda fun.) Whatever the type of party, you might have the opportunity to share a little bit about your faith – something that’s important to you – instead of how the local baseball or football team is doing currently.
Like any type of witnessing, getting over the fears is the first part – “I’m not an evangelist,” “I don’t know how to talk to people I don’t know,” “I’m not outgoing,” etc.
Baloney.
Remember, Seed Planter, find a common interest with your neighbor. Movies, music, sports, whatever, – think of ways to bring up your faith within these conversations. Neighbor, stranger, partner, friend, co-worker, etc. All need to hear the saving words of Christ’s salvation.
Why not start with the person next door?
(Source: Witnessing to Neighbors, by Jim Killiam, in “Christianity Today International/Marriage Partnership” magazine, Summer 2002, Vol. 19, No. 2).
Also check out: “Neighborhood Ideas for Caring,” by Naomi Frizzell and “The Complete Handbook of Everyday Christianity,” edited by Robert Banks and R. Paul Stevens.
Tell Everyone!
But Jesus said, “No, go home to your friends, and tell them what wonderful things the Lord has done for you and how merciful he has been.” So the man started off to visit the Ten Towns of that region and began to tell everyone about the great things Jesus had done for him; and everyone was amazed at what he told them. Mark 5:19-20
Little Things
Earlier we talked about some of the simple things you can do in fulfilling God’s purpose to spread the Good News. I don’t know about you, but I forget half of what I read about, so before we jump into the examples of others, I just wanted to present a list of “little things” you can do to get started. Whether you are shy, a procrastinator, unsure of how to begin, here are some things anyone can do – immediately.
1) Remember, we talked about using your Time for God first and for others, and lastly yourself. It bears repeating. Whether in your church, with a volunteer group, or simply praying for others, use your most precious commodity – time (which you can never get back), for God. Get into the habit of thinking each morning, How can I serve God today?, before thinking of work, chores, family, bills, entertainment, etc. (It goes without saying the same applies to using your Treasure, not to mention your Talents, for God first.)
2) Leave Behinds. You can pick up Bible tracts from your church or various ministry websites and Christian bookstores. You can also pick up a box of little crosses that have a Bible verse on them or that simply say, “God Loves You.” When you’re out at a restaurant, leave a cross with the tip. When you’re out shopping, leave a tract on a shelf. Sure it may be tossed, but God can also lead a person to come by after you and pick it up casually to see what it is. Who knows? Don’t limit the Holy Spirit. Be His messenger. Start leaving that paper trail.
3) Volunteer. This falls under the “using your time” category, but I want to ask you – do you go to church on Sunday, maybe attend a Bible study (or not), and then go back to your life? Do you volunteer your time in a church activity? You say no one asks you to do anything? My next question to you then is, why are you waiting for someone to ask? Bring something to the table. Tell the church leaders you have a desire to serve the Lord in...whatever. Lead a Bible Study. Be a greeter before the service. Start a prayer circle. Bake some goodies to munch on after the service (we Lutherans love doughnuts, but cakes and cookies are just fine, too). And not just at church. Volunteer in a Christian organization. Or better yet, a non-Christian organization where you can be that light to share God’s word as you get to know people in your group. The bottom line is, don’t wait to be asked to do something. Be proactive and act first. Just do it.
4) Be available. Next time you are on a plane, be friendly and open up a conversation with the person seated next to you. Bring up the latest movie you saw, see where it takes you and how the Holy Spirit will make an opening for you to share your story. Get to know your neighbors (See, “Right In Your Back Yard” above). Do you know them – one or two houses down? Bring over a plate of cookies and just say “Hi.” See where it takes you. How about visiting the sick or elderly? There may be programs or groups that organize visits, but how about just showing up? What about handing out Bibles or giving them as gifts to people you know? Look for ways to just...be available, and pray for direction and strength for God to lead you. He will.
5) Check Please! Here’s another little seed planting idea I thought I’d toss in to get you started. It’s kind of like a “leave-behind” but not quite. Next time you pay a bill with a check or buy something at the local store with a check, use the “Note” section at the bottom left and write in a Bible verse, like John 3:16, or just leave a note that says, “Jesus Loves You.” Most of the time we leave it blank, unless you’re writing in your account numbers, but why not leave a note for the receiver, whoever that is, and let the Holy Spirit work it from there!
6) Public prayer. No way, you say! Yes way, I say. Prayer is powerful. You know that. By simply doing what you do anyway, but in a public forum, the power of the Holy Spirit will spill over into all who witness you speaking to your Holy Father. Am I talking about walking out into the middle of a busy intersection with a bullhorn and letting it rip? No. But what about simply praying a prayer of thanks the next time you are in a restaurant and the food is delivered? Bowing your head, taking the hand of the person you are dining with, and speaking in a normal, regular voice a prayer of thanks. You will send a powerful message to those sitting around you and again, the Holy Spirit is at work. Just give Him the opportunity.
Whatever Is Good, Think About Those Things
(like art, music, literature...)
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 those things. Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Unexpected or Reluctant Seed Planters from the Bible (5)
I’m going to stay in the Old Testament for a couple more examples before jumping into the New Testament. There are just so many gems to uncover there. The examples I'm giving are just one small slice of the pie. Let's face it – do a popularity contest between the Old and New Testament and the New wins every time. Sure, you've got the Creation story, and the biggies like Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, and David but for the most part, the Old Testament (not including Psalms, of course) is tough reading. Growing up as a Christian, I tended to stay in the New Testament. But once I really discovered the Old Testament, and read about all the many different servants of God following steadfast to His will, a new door of understanding opened to me. All the so-called minor roles, like Eliezer, fill up the Old Testament, and what a powerful message God gives us through their story. We can serve God in small ways and big ways, but all ways are important. Don't let the Old Testament go under your radar for Bible study, and don't just stick with the big stories. Dig deeper and find the gems. You'll find a whole treasure full of them once you do.
Rahab the Prostitute (Joshua 2)
When the Israelites were finally ready to enter the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua, they found it already occupied so Joshua sent a couple of spies ahead to scope out the area around Jericho. So they go and end up staying that night at the house of a prostitute named Rahab.
Hey now! Huh?
Okay, don't get any ideas here. Remember that God uses all types of people in His service and only He knows what is in their heart. Society can be quick to judge by appearances or even past deeds but God calls everyone to forgiveness and His door is always open to all who hear His call no matter what their past or how insignificant the world may view them. In this case, perhaps God knew that Rahab was open to Him, maybe even looking to start over and change her ways.
So the rest of story goes that the King of Jericho caught the wind that these spies may be hanging out with Rahab, and at great risk to her life, she covers for these strangers and helps them get away, thereby saving their lives so they can go back later and report to Joshua.
Why would Rahab, both a pagan and Canaanite (yes, and a prostitute) be interested in God? She recognized Him as the true and only God. Her heart was open to listening. Sometimes that is all it takes – be willing to listen (and obey). Rahab may have never done another brave act like that again, but her faith saved her and her family, literally.
Rehab planted one seed that day by her actions and by putting her trust in a God she new little about, except that He is the one and only true God.
Every seed counts.
Jonah – A Whale of a Tale
Here's the story of the reluctant, ornery prophet and it's a story you may know well all ready. How God called Jonah to go to the city of Nineveh and tell the people that in forty days their city would be destroyed, but Jonah had other plans in mind. You have to admit, the guy has guts saying no to God because basically, he was prejudiced against the non-Jews. Why did Jonah really turn tail and run? Maybe out of anger about not wanting to share his God with anyone else, or maybe he was a bit afraid. How often have we not heeded God’s will for us because of fear, stubbornness, laziness, or any of a hundred reasons?
So you know the rest of the story - Jonah sails away in the opposite direction of Nineveh, the storm comes, overboard he goes, gets swallowed by a big fish then regurgitated later on shore, where he gives in and does his job. And then, get this, when the people actually listen to him and repent of their sins, Jonah gets mad at God for showing His immense kindness and unfailing love when He doesn't destroy the city. Jonah is all embarrassed that nothing he predicted was going to happen. What a crotchety old dude, huh? Instead, just like He did with the people of Nineveh, God teaches him a gentle lesson about showing kindness to those who are truly repentant.
Sometimes we all need a good boot in the butt by God to get us going. When we are reluctant seed planters - because of fear, distractions, or any other excuse - God moves to move us. I welcome those times. I welcome God acting directly in my life - hopefully it's not because I'm not doing His will like Jonah in the beginning. I know those times are going to happen though since I'm a sinner and I'm glad God cares about me enough to send those gentle motivators every now and then.
Has God sent you a whale of your own to turn you around?
How did you respond?
Never Stop Planting Seeds
Be sure to stay busy and plant a variety of crops, for you never know which will grow—perhaps they all will. Ecclesiates 11:6
Rahab the Prostitute (Joshua 2)
When the Israelites were finally ready to enter the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua, they found it already occupied so Joshua sent a couple of spies ahead to scope out the area around Jericho. So they go and end up staying that night at the house of a prostitute named Rahab.
Hey now! Huh?
Okay, don't get any ideas here. Remember that God uses all types of people in His service and only He knows what is in their heart. Society can be quick to judge by appearances or even past deeds but God calls everyone to forgiveness and His door is always open to all who hear His call no matter what their past or how insignificant the world may view them. In this case, perhaps God knew that Rahab was open to Him, maybe even looking to start over and change her ways.
So the rest of story goes that the King of Jericho caught the wind that these spies may be hanging out with Rahab, and at great risk to her life, she covers for these strangers and helps them get away, thereby saving their lives so they can go back later and report to Joshua.
Why would Rahab, both a pagan and Canaanite (yes, and a prostitute) be interested in God? She recognized Him as the true and only God. Her heart was open to listening. Sometimes that is all it takes – be willing to listen (and obey). Rahab may have never done another brave act like that again, but her faith saved her and her family, literally.
Rehab planted one seed that day by her actions and by putting her trust in a God she new little about, except that He is the one and only true God.
Every seed counts.
Jonah – A Whale of a Tale
Here's the story of the reluctant, ornery prophet and it's a story you may know well all ready. How God called Jonah to go to the city of Nineveh and tell the people that in forty days their city would be destroyed, but Jonah had other plans in mind. You have to admit, the guy has guts saying no to God because basically, he was prejudiced against the non-Jews. Why did Jonah really turn tail and run? Maybe out of anger about not wanting to share his God with anyone else, or maybe he was a bit afraid. How often have we not heeded God’s will for us because of fear, stubbornness, laziness, or any of a hundred reasons?
So you know the rest of the story - Jonah sails away in the opposite direction of Nineveh, the storm comes, overboard he goes, gets swallowed by a big fish then regurgitated later on shore, where he gives in and does his job. And then, get this, when the people actually listen to him and repent of their sins, Jonah gets mad at God for showing His immense kindness and unfailing love when He doesn't destroy the city. Jonah is all embarrassed that nothing he predicted was going to happen. What a crotchety old dude, huh? Instead, just like He did with the people of Nineveh, God teaches him a gentle lesson about showing kindness to those who are truly repentant.
Those Reluctant Prophets –
Don’t Worry, God says, I Will Always Help You
"O Sovereign Lord," I [Jeremiah] said, "I can't speak for you! I'm too young!" "Don’t say that," the Lord replied, "or you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. And don't be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and take care of you. I, the Lord, have spoken!" Jeremiah 1:6-8
Sometimes we all need a good boot in the butt by God to get us going. When we are reluctant seed planters - because of fear, distractions, or any other excuse - God moves to move us. I welcome those times. I welcome God acting directly in my life - hopefully it's not because I'm not doing His will like Jonah in the beginning. I know those times are going to happen though since I'm a sinner and I'm glad God cares about me enough to send those gentle motivators every now and then.
Has God sent you a whale of your own to turn you around?
How did you respond?
Monday, December 17, 2007
Seed Planters from the Bible (4)
This next blog provides several examples of seed planters in part to inspire you as well as to give you an idea of how to get started or what area to focus on as a seed planter. Maybe you’ll see an example from a person in God's Word that will make you think, "Yeah, I like to do that" or "I'm good at that. I’d love to use that talent of mine as a way to share my faith with others."
We'll look at seed planters from the past and we'll also look at people who might not even believe in Jesus but God used them as unknowing seed planters. So let's get started and see some examples in God's Holy Word. Why not go straight to the source, right? It's all in there. Come on, let's jump in.
Oldies but Goldies
The Old Testament contains a field-full of seed planters. Reluctant prophets, support people, skilled craftsman are but a few examples of the kind of people God used to spread the word and do His will back in the day. How were they seed planters? By how they lived their life; by how they used their gifts (time, treasures, talents) in service to Him; by how they never lost faith even in the most trying of times. Through the actions of their lives and choices they made to serve God they planted seeds. They gave an example for all time for us to emulate as the stories were recorded by God within His Word for all of us to read and absorb.
We'll start with some of the seemingly forgotten individuals of the Bible and save the big guns like Joseph and David till later in another blog. Everyone is important to God and all have a purpose in serving God, whether the task be little or great. Even back in the Old Testament, God worked through His seed planters – down to the tiniest little mustard seed of a planter.
The Support Team
Melchizedek (Genesis 14:17-20; Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 5-7)
Mel who? No, not Mel Torme, though he has a nice singing voice. And not Mel Passion Gibson. Melchizedek was a king in the Old Testament during Abraham's time. Melchizedek was a God-fearing man whose name meant King of Righteousness. He was the king of Salem (the site of the future Jerusalem) and the Bible says he was a priest of God Most High. What's interesting to note is that Melchizedek worshipped the same God as Abraham but was not Jewish. The Jews, as God's chosen people, kind of had God’s ear back then. God talked directly to Abraham, wrestled with Jacob, and was pretty hands-on with Moses. But here is this guy, on the outside, you might say, who had not even met Abraham before, who wears his belief on his sleeve because the first thing he does is offer Abram (his name before God changed his name to Abraham. God seems to love changing people’s names in the Old Testament, don’t you think? It’s basically like a baptism, as God bestows on them a new quest to serve Him along with the new name) a blessing:
"Blessed be Abram by God most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And blessed be God Most High, who has helped you conquer your enemies." (Genesis 14:19-20)
Not much is really known about Melchizedek, but that's okay. What we do know is that his love for God reflected directly through his character. God speaks through many different people. And He will speak through you if you let Him – either in your words or your deeds (or both). And God will speak to you, too, through other people. God wants you to know Him as much as He wants you to tell others about Him.
Eliezer (Genesis 24)
Sometimes we are seed planters when we simply do our job; when we honor our responsibilities, are trustworthy and reliable, and above all, put our steadfast trust in God. Eliezer, Abraham’s servant, was one such person. He was tasked with going out to find a wife for Abraham's son, Isaac. Not only that, he had to figure out a way to keep him from marrying one of those hot Canaanite women.
Pretty big task, huh? I can imagine Abraham speaking to Eliezer: "Ahh, hey Eliezer, I’m too old to go off and find a wife for my son so you do it. And hurry up before one of those floozy Canaanite women get their mitts on him. Just go to my homeland and find someone. That way. And thanks."
"Surrrrre, Abraham, no problem. Just go that way, huh? Yeah, sure, I’ll get right on that. Not!" That might have been my answer but I sure hope not.
But it wasn't Eliezer's answer. Eliezer did trust, did have faith. Abraham said an angel would help direct him. Eliezer prayed for guidance. He didn't rush things but let God direct him and followed through completely. He brought Rebekah home to Isaac. Eliezer fulfilled his role as God intended – as a true servant. That was talent, serving. He did his task without hesitation (Just do it). Imagine if he hadn’t. If he had gotten scared or lazy or lost faith and just wandered off and never came back to Abraham. That would mean Jacob (renamed Israel – there's that name thing again) would never have been born – and all his sons (the tribe of Israel) never would have been born. Most importantly, the genealogy leading to the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ, would have been broken!
All because a simple servant named Eliezer did his job. And did it faithfully. He may have only planted one seed, we don't know. But the seed he planted as recorded in the Bible was a pretty big one, don't you think?
Moses' Craftsmen – Bezalel and Oholiab (Exodus 31:1-11)
Do you have a talent that involves being artistic? Are you skilled in creating crafts of all kinds? Look how God gave these talents to those in the Old Testament to serve His glory and think about what message you could put into the arts and crafts that you create:
"The Lord said to Moses, 'Look, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, intelligence, and skill in all kinds of crafts. He is able to create beautiful objects from gold, silver, and bronze. He is skilled in cutting and setting gemstones and in carving wood. Yes, he is a master at every craft!
"And I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to be his assistant. Moreover, I have given special skill to all the naturally talented craftsmen so they can make all the things I have instructed you to make: the Tabernacle itself; the Ark of the Covenant; the Ark’s cover—the place of atonement; all the furnishings of the Tabernacle; the table and all its utensils; the gold lampstand with all its accessories; the incense altar; the altar of burnt offering with all its utensils; the washbasin and its pedestal; the beautifully stitched, holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments for his sons to wear as they minister as priests; the anointing oil; and the special incense for the Holy Place. They must follow exactly all the instructions I have given you.'"
Whoa, what an endorsement, huh? "Yes, he is a master at every craft!" So maybe you can't preach like Paul, but if you like to draw, or sew, paint, do craftwork – start planting those seeds in your work and when someone asks you what that symbol of the cross means in your work, then God is watering that seed.
Aaron (Exodus – Deuteronomy 10:6)
Now Aaron wasn't perfect by any means. We all saw the movie The Ten Commandments and watched John Carradine as Aaron wimp out and give into the people's demands to make the golden calf. But he repented and God accepted his repentance and Aaron went on to become the first high priest of God in Israel! God used the special abilities He gave to Aaron for his purpose, and Aaron came through. He served God with his skills.
Aaron was a good communicator. When Moses got a little tongue tied trying to talk the Pharaoh into letting the children of Israel go, Aaron was always there to step in and articulate. He was part of the team God put together and he knew his place. Moses was the leader, Aaron never tried to take over even though he was the better communicator. And Moses' strength as a leader helped Aaron, too, who, as we see when Moses goes away for just a little while, is easily swayed by the will of the people.
Aaron was a key support person. He served God, faults and all, and became an example to all of Israel in how to obey God through his key role as the high priest.
We are not all leaders and that's okay. The followers, the support people, are there with all of their own individual talents and skills, who together, use them to serve God’s total plan – to lead everyone to His love, forgiveness, and salvation.
We'll look at seed planters from the past and we'll also look at people who might not even believe in Jesus but God used them as unknowing seed planters. So let's get started and see some examples in God's Holy Word. Why not go straight to the source, right? It's all in there. Come on, let's jump in.
Be like Sweet Perfume to the World
But thanks be to God, who made us His captives and leads us along in Christ's triumphal procession. Now wherever we go he uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Good News like a sweet perfume.
2 Corinthians 2:14
Oldies but Goldies
The Old Testament contains a field-full of seed planters. Reluctant prophets, support people, skilled craftsman are but a few examples of the kind of people God used to spread the word and do His will back in the day. How were they seed planters? By how they lived their life; by how they used their gifts (time, treasures, talents) in service to Him; by how they never lost faith even in the most trying of times. Through the actions of their lives and choices they made to serve God they planted seeds. They gave an example for all time for us to emulate as the stories were recorded by God within His Word for all of us to read and absorb.
We'll start with some of the seemingly forgotten individuals of the Bible and save the big guns like Joseph and David till later in another blog. Everyone is important to God and all have a purpose in serving God, whether the task be little or great. Even back in the Old Testament, God worked through His seed planters – down to the tiniest little mustard seed of a planter.
The Support Team
Melchizedek (Genesis 14:17-20; Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 5-7)
Mel who? No, not Mel Torme, though he has a nice singing voice. And not Mel Passion Gibson. Melchizedek was a king in the Old Testament during Abraham's time. Melchizedek was a God-fearing man whose name meant King of Righteousness. He was the king of Salem (the site of the future Jerusalem) and the Bible says he was a priest of God Most High. What's interesting to note is that Melchizedek worshipped the same God as Abraham but was not Jewish. The Jews, as God's chosen people, kind of had God’s ear back then. God talked directly to Abraham, wrestled with Jacob, and was pretty hands-on with Moses. But here is this guy, on the outside, you might say, who had not even met Abraham before, who wears his belief on his sleeve because the first thing he does is offer Abram (his name before God changed his name to Abraham. God seems to love changing people’s names in the Old Testament, don’t you think? It’s basically like a baptism, as God bestows on them a new quest to serve Him along with the new name) a blessing:
"Blessed be Abram by God most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And blessed be God Most High, who has helped you conquer your enemies." (Genesis 14:19-20)
Not much is really known about Melchizedek, but that's okay. What we do know is that his love for God reflected directly through his character. God speaks through many different people. And He will speak through you if you let Him – either in your words or your deeds (or both). And God will speak to you, too, through other people. God wants you to know Him as much as He wants you to tell others about Him.
Eliezer (Genesis 24)
Sometimes we are seed planters when we simply do our job; when we honor our responsibilities, are trustworthy and reliable, and above all, put our steadfast trust in God. Eliezer, Abraham’s servant, was one such person. He was tasked with going out to find a wife for Abraham's son, Isaac. Not only that, he had to figure out a way to keep him from marrying one of those hot Canaanite women.
Pretty big task, huh? I can imagine Abraham speaking to Eliezer: "Ahh, hey Eliezer, I’m too old to go off and find a wife for my son so you do it. And hurry up before one of those floozy Canaanite women get their mitts on him. Just go to my homeland and find someone. That way. And thanks."
"Surrrrre, Abraham, no problem. Just go that way, huh? Yeah, sure, I’ll get right on that. Not!" That might have been my answer but I sure hope not.
But it wasn't Eliezer's answer. Eliezer did trust, did have faith. Abraham said an angel would help direct him. Eliezer prayed for guidance. He didn't rush things but let God direct him and followed through completely. He brought Rebekah home to Isaac. Eliezer fulfilled his role as God intended – as a true servant. That was talent, serving. He did his task without hesitation (Just do it). Imagine if he hadn’t. If he had gotten scared or lazy or lost faith and just wandered off and never came back to Abraham. That would mean Jacob (renamed Israel – there's that name thing again) would never have been born – and all his sons (the tribe of Israel) never would have been born. Most importantly, the genealogy leading to the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ, would have been broken!
All because a simple servant named Eliezer did his job. And did it faithfully. He may have only planted one seed, we don't know. But the seed he planted as recorded in the Bible was a pretty big one, don't you think?
Moses' Craftsmen – Bezalel and Oholiab (Exodus 31:1-11)
Do you have a talent that involves being artistic? Are you skilled in creating crafts of all kinds? Look how God gave these talents to those in the Old Testament to serve His glory and think about what message you could put into the arts and crafts that you create:
Using Your Talents: Someone Has to Make the Tassels
And the Lord said to Moses, "Say to the people of Israel: ‘Throughout the generations to come you must make tassels for the hems of your clothing and attach the tassels at each corner with a blue cord. The tassels will remind you of the commands of the Lord, and that you are to obey his commands instead of following your own desires and going your own ways, as you are prone to do.'"
Numbers 15:37-39
"The Lord said to Moses, 'Look, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, intelligence, and skill in all kinds of crafts. He is able to create beautiful objects from gold, silver, and bronze. He is skilled in cutting and setting gemstones and in carving wood. Yes, he is a master at every craft!
"And I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to be his assistant. Moreover, I have given special skill to all the naturally talented craftsmen so they can make all the things I have instructed you to make: the Tabernacle itself; the Ark of the Covenant; the Ark’s cover—the place of atonement; all the furnishings of the Tabernacle; the table and all its utensils; the gold lampstand with all its accessories; the incense altar; the altar of burnt offering with all its utensils; the washbasin and its pedestal; the beautifully stitched, holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments for his sons to wear as they minister as priests; the anointing oil; and the special incense for the Holy Place. They must follow exactly all the instructions I have given you.'"
Whoa, what an endorsement, huh? "Yes, he is a master at every craft!" So maybe you can't preach like Paul, but if you like to draw, or sew, paint, do craftwork – start planting those seeds in your work and when someone asks you what that symbol of the cross means in your work, then God is watering that seed.
Aaron (Exodus – Deuteronomy 10:6)
Now Aaron wasn't perfect by any means. We all saw the movie The Ten Commandments and watched John Carradine as Aaron wimp out and give into the people's demands to make the golden calf. But he repented and God accepted his repentance and Aaron went on to become the first high priest of God in Israel! God used the special abilities He gave to Aaron for his purpose, and Aaron came through. He served God with his skills.
Aaron was a good communicator. When Moses got a little tongue tied trying to talk the Pharaoh into letting the children of Israel go, Aaron was always there to step in and articulate. He was part of the team God put together and he knew his place. Moses was the leader, Aaron never tried to take over even though he was the better communicator. And Moses' strength as a leader helped Aaron, too, who, as we see when Moses goes away for just a little while, is easily swayed by the will of the people.
Aaron was a key support person. He served God, faults and all, and became an example to all of Israel in how to obey God through his key role as the high priest.
We are not all leaders and that's okay. The followers, the support people, are there with all of their own individual talents and skills, who together, use them to serve God’s total plan – to lead everyone to His love, forgiveness, and salvation.
Monday, October 08, 2007
The Greatest Commandments God Gives Concern Love
When asked what was the greatest commandment, Jesus said:
“You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and allMatthew 22:37-40 (The Bible – New Living Translation)
your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is
equally important – Love your neighbor as yourself. All the other
commandments and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two
commandments.”
God is Love
Agape is a Greek word that means love. Agape is the highest level or expression of love. It is the kind of love that is expressed through words like: divine, unconditional, self-sacrificing, devotion, and thoughtful. But the most pure definition of agape is to say that God is love. Not that God has love or gives love, which He certainly does, but simply that God is love. The Bible tells us this:
“Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is born of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God—for God is love.”
“God showed us how much he loved us by sending His only Son into the world so we might have eternal life through him. This is real love. It is not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.”
1 John 4:7-10 (The Bible – New Living Translation)
“Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is born of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God—for God is love.”
“God showed us how much he loved us by sending His only Son into the world so we might have eternal life through him. This is real love. It is not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.”
1 John 4:7-10 (The Bible – New Living Translation)
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