the deer pants

More on Integrity

2011-10-24T21:28:00.003-05:00

Dr.Henry Cloud in his book “Integrity” defines character as the ability to meet the demands of reality. The implication is that the entire personworks well together to effectively handle all the realities facing a person. He shares six character dimensions that must workwell together for a person to have a good “wake”: establishing trust, orientedtoward truth, getting results, embracing the negative, oriented toward increaseand oriented toward transcendence. Thisblog entry will briefly cover each dimension.

· Establishing Trust– This is the ability to connect in authentic ways with others. The danger is interpreting personal opinionas the obvious reality – the attitude is that “everyone else is clearly wrongor not yet seeing it”. The leader is notreally listening to others or may have an inability to connect with what othersare feeling, thinking, or experiencing. Trust is established when the led understand that the leader understandsand empathizes. However, trust mustmature beyond understanding into knowing that the leader will do what is in thebest interest of the led (engaging them in the process); at this level a trust,a person no longer feels the need to be guarded. With the guard down, people can be authenticand vulnerable with each other; this is the point when trust is solidified.

· Oriented Toward Truth – Regardless of how difficult to face, truth isalways a better alternative. A leadermust look at the available data and find the courage to ask the tough questionsthat uncover truth. Explaining awaytruth (a.k.a. self-deceit) seems to take more emotional energy and addspersonal stress than coming to terms with reality. Deception always fears the truth and fearadds stress. A leader of character musthave the courage to disconnect the self-defense mechanisms and face reality;they must have a deep hunger for truth rather than comfort, and willingness toaccept the new information and adapt to it.

· Getting Results– To get results, the leader must know their own skills and talents. Given his strengths, the leader of characterwill know to maintain the right boundaries (i.e. stay away from the jobs thatdo not suit him). This requires thepersonal integrity and confidence to admit the strengths, and the humility toaccept the limitations. In addition toskills and talents, a leader who gets results invests in preparation andplanning. When the course of action isidentified, the leader once again needs to tap into courage – this time is thecourage to make difficult decisions to achieve the desired results. The challenge here is choosing betweenconflicting goals that govern the decision making process. The courage to make decisions must bepartnered with perseverance to overcome obstacles and the knowledge to handlefailure and setbacks.

· Embracing the Negative – A leader who accepts the assumption that lifewill bring problems is better equipped to handle them. Facing this reality recalibrates the leader’sattitude toward difficulties – they are expected events rather than surprisinginterruptions. Given this assumption,the leader must learn to recover quickly from problems and to separate his ownidentity from the issue he is facing. Additionally, a leader cannot pass the responsibility to others – theleader owns the results and the issue; however, that does not mean that aleader does not confront issues or people. The art of confrontation isrooted in the first two aspects of character: trust and truth.

· Oriented Toward Increase – The difficulty with character is that itconstantly needs to be improved even after many years of maturity. A leadermust not be satisfied with the status quo – the leader must look to grow andmature. Growth is a sign of life and ithappens consistently in life; however, growth does not happen uniformlythroughout life. Growth often meanstaking risks; however Cloud makes a distinction between risk and gambling. Risk taken after calculated planning isgrowth not gambling. Growth alwaysrequires an investment of time, money, or both and a submission to some type ofgrowth structure or plan as well as formal and informal mentors.

· Oriented Toward Transcendence – A mature character must see the world as biggerthan the self. Without this grandvision, a leader becomes narcissistic and self absorbed. Facing the reality of transcendence is partof the growth a person must go through to have a balanced “wake”.

Integrity

2011-10-16T19:42:00.001-05:00

Dr.Henry Cloud’s book “Integrity” tackles the challenge of connecting character tothe day to day activities many people face in the work, family, or personalenvironments. He shows that beingcompetent at a skill and knowing how to build mutually beneficial relationshipsis not enough. Cloud argues that integrityand character (i.e. who a person is) hold people back from getting the resultsthey believe they should achieve. Tomake his point, he deconstructs the common personal defense mechanisms thatpeople build over the years to uncover personal truth. Starting with theinitial point of truth, Cloud provides a way of thinking about character that goesbeyond the traditional definition of integrity and aligns with skill-competencyand relationships.

Afoundational metaphor that Cloud uses in his book is the wake of a boat. The wake is a person’s character. The twosides of the wake represent the task to be accomplished and the relationships encountered. Examining both sides of the wake (theirsmoothness) provides insight into someone’s personal issues. How the wake ripples are handled is moretelling about a person than the actual presence of the ripples.

Leading-the-Self

2011-10-11T22:32:00.001-05:00

Leading-the-Selfis a foundational discipline that needs to be practiced first before all otherdisciplines. It gives power to the otherdisciplines since it enables the self to be real and alert. Leading-the-Self is the discipline of takingtime for personal reflection and intimacy with God. It is taking care of one’s soul first beforeministering to others. It requirescritical observation and self knowledge to hear and interpret what the physicalbody and emotions are saying. This discipline often surfaces in solitude. Jesus withdrew to “lonely places”. The greater the demands of Jesus the more heprioritized his need for solitude. [Luke6:12]

Leading-the-Self requires intentionalobservation to see the true self with all its limitations and not build defensemechanisms to compensate. It requires ahumble attitude of brokenness before God, striving to live pro-gospel andcounter-culture. Leading-the-Selfengages in confession by choosing to change the pattern of sinful behavior, andembraces detachment by rejecting idolatry in its many forms. Leading-the-Self practices secrecy;forgetting the need for appreciation and running away from personal grandiosity, ministry gets done without the need for othersto know “who you are”. Lastly, leading-the-selfrequires submission – this is intentional and volunteer placing of oneselfunder the authority of someone else.

Solitude & Community

2011-10-03T22:41:00.001-05:00

The cycle of solitude and community provides additional insight into the rhythm of life. Spiritual transformation requires a trusted community to help process it.

Spiritual transformation thrives in a community that understands sin, yet practices grace.

The community must practice a healthy cycle of movement between group discussions and times of reflection. Spiritual formation does not flourish through control or authority, nor is it meant to produce clones.

Each human being is to display the uniqueness of what it means to display the image of Christ in them.

Work & Rest

2011-09-28T23:15:00.000-05:00

Thecycle of work and rest provides insight into the rhythm of life. God revealed this rhythm through hiscreation. He worked for six days andrested on the seventh [Genesis 2:2,3]. Althoughwork is God-given, it is not meant to go on non-stop. Rest must interrupt work. The same 6 + 1 rhythm is seen in the lawsconcerning Sabbath and the year of Jubilee [Leviticus 25:8; Deuteronomy 15]. A common challenge in the rhythm of work and restis knowing when and how to move from work to rest and from rest to work. For example, the religious leaders duringJesus day attempted to create rules for rest; however these ended up as morework rather than what God intended [Matthew 12:1-8]. With that awareness, any specific suggestionsor advice received regarding rest must be viewed as guiding principles for restrather than specific rules.

Take-away thought: Leisure activities do NOT equal REST.

responding to life’s challenges

2011-09-24T08:07:00.001-05:00

Spiritualtransformation happens in the context of everyday life as one cultivates asense of reality and responds effectively. The following five steps are based on Allender’s model described in hisbook “Leading With a Limp”: (1) see, (2) understand, (3) act, (4) share,and (5) remember. These steps provide aframework for understanding the rhythm of effectively responding to life’schallenges. First, it is critical to see– face the current truth regardless of its difficulty. Second, facing the facts is not enough; factsneed to be understood in the context of their complexity. Third, understanding has to move into appropriateaction that transforms the heart (the core of being as a person). Fourth, heart transformation occurs incommunity not isolation. Fifth, findingways to continually remember will fuse the new-found transformation to theinnermost being of a person.

Reflect

2011-09-19T21:39:00.000-05:00

Theinternal work is amplified by a reflectivelife style. Spiritual transformationis facilitated by personal reflection regarding identity, activities, and desires.This activity is not common in the western church but may be learned frombrothers and sisters in the East – which highlights the need forcommunity.

The process of spiritualtransformation is communal. Since spiritual formation is always for thesake of others rather than being privatized or individualized, it takes place ina God-centered community. Long term,sustained change is always nurtured in an environment that is grace orientedand grace-filled rather than in an environment of judgment, shame, criticism,institutionalism, ridicule, guilt, condescension, and condemnation. The process of spiritual transformation is basedon the truth of intimacy between Godand man.

Discover

2011-09-16T23:39:00.003-05:00

Since spiritualtransformation is initiated by God for every believer, it is important todiscover the processes, rhythms and disciplines of spiritualtransformation. Although these do notfollow a cookie-cutter approach for each believer, there are some notablepatterns and principles that emerge.

Spiritualtransformation is a process not an event. The process usually focuses at the points ofmost unlikeness to the image of Jesus; these could be relational problems,sexual issues, temper, envy, or pride. It is particularly important to observethe areas where the heart opposes a particular scriptural teaching or promptingof the Holy Spirit. Additionally, theprocess of spiritual transformation is always inside out -- it is theinternal work of change in the core of being as a person not external work ofcontrolling people and circumstances.

Art and Mystery

2011-09-14T23:59:00.003-05:00

God’smission of restoration (which includes spiritual transformation) is more divineartistry and mystery than human planning, science, and methodology [Isaiah55:8,9; Psalm 33]. Spiritualtransformation is rooted in surrendering control to God, rather than a try-as-you-might,do-it-yourself process or knowledge. Jobis a valuable example in this case because Job was not transformed by his ownefforts or by the answers God gave him but rather Job was transformed by God’s questions,which ultimately remained a mystery [Job 38-42].

Using Job as example, we see that it was not Job’sself-will and determination but Job’s circumstances that facilitated spiritual transformation. Similarly, it is not our human determinationthat brings about transformation, instead we need to create (or allow for) conditionsand environments in which spiritual transformation can take place. A person can only monitor the atmosphere andenvironment to ensure it cultivates transformation (i.e. likeness to Christ,rather than self-actualization). Environment conditions that cultivate transformation include prayer,scripture meditation, and practices (often called spiritual disciplines) thatenhance intimacy with God.

maturity

2011-09-13T23:09:00.000-05:00

Oneof the greatest summaries of spiritual formation is: becoming like Christ. It is appropriate to talk abouttrans-formation rather than just formation. Spiritual transformation is part of the process of human maturity. Full human maturity is not just reachingphysical maturity, but rather Christ-likeness in all aspects of life. To that end, God is seeking to restore (totransform) the broken image in man and achieve the full humanity that wasdesigned at creation and embodied in Christ. He is the goal of spiritual transformation.

soul care

2011-09-08T22:54:00.000-05:00

Spiritualformation and spiritual leadership are key terms used in spiritualformation discussions and are essential to soul care . Soul care starts with critical observation – this is thediscipline of noticing the condition of the heart (the core of being as aperson). It includes the intentional examinationof feelings, personal spirit, the voice of God, and how things in theenvironment are affecting the heart. Ofspecial importance is observing and understanding the areas of resistance – theareas where the heart opposes a particular teaching. Because the terms spiritual formation and spiritualleadership have a strong relationship to each other it is important toarticulate the interdependencies and distinctions between them.

STORY TIME!! The first crusade – Lord Gunther (ch 4)

2009-10-20T22:16:00.008-05:00

Much time had passed since that evening, when the knight, his family, and all his servants dined with the king. That wonderful evening of celebration ended with a renewed commitment to the king. It was a high time in the knight’s life.

Over the next few days the knight spent time with the king drawing up battle plans, and planning the rescue of captured lands. There was a feeling of excitement and nervous anticipation; and then, it was time to put plans into action. The knight went to war.

The initial feeling of excitement was now replaced by the realities of war. There were casualties, and victories. There were battles won and battles lost. There were heroes and martyrs. Stories of valor and courage reached the knight and they inspired him. There was victory and tragedy throughout the kingdom, but the knight pressed on.

One night in camp, after a particularly difficult and long day, the knight and his company were greeted by a Marcellus, a nephew of Lord Gunther. Marcellus looked tired and hurt. The knight saw that Marcellus was wounded in his left leg and that his armor was broken and bent; but there was more. A hurt seemed to emanate from inside his very soul.

The knight offered Marcellus food and drink. There were not many words spoken while he sat and ate. Since neither Marcellus nor the knight said a word, no one else dared to speak either. There was a heavy silence broken only by the sound of the fire, and of the horses stirring. With slow movements, Marcellus put his cup down and looked up at the knight. A thousand words were spoken in silence by their eyes. The knight waited for what was certain to come, and then Marcellus spoke “He was mortally wounded at the Zeitsa Pass.” His voice was heavy and the words were labored. The knight understood. Lord Gunther, one of the king’s most trusted advisers fell in battle while trying to cross the Zeitsa Pass. With the understanding came the sharp pain of loss. This was a difficult casualty to accept. The knight realized the effect the news would have on his men especially when they would hear about where Lord Gunther was slain.

The Zeitsa Pass was a most dangerous shortcut through the mountains. Many knights, tempted by their desire to get through the mountains quickly, lost their lives in the attempt. The Pass was an enemy stronghold. The knight knew the pass well for he too wanted to take his chances on it; the knight had even sent scouts to spy on the enemy there. The road was so dangerous that the king had forbidden all his captains from even getting close to Zeitsa pass. The king’s orders were that everyone must stay a day’s journey away from the pass.

That night, peaceful sleep would not visit the knight for a long time; however, the stars came out in great numbers to keep him company. Since he could not sleep, he took out his sword, sat by the fire and started to sharpen it. Sharpening a sword was no easy task. It took a lot of patience, discipline, and a steady hand. Sharpening his sword was a task the knight did not mind. He knew that a good warrior always keeps his sword sharp -- and that’s what he wanted to be: a good warrior. Eventually, exhaustion conquered the knight and he fell asleep with the sword in his hand.

In the morning, the knight felt surprisingly refreshed. He was ready to face another day in the service of his king. He got his armor ready and in order. His shield shone in the morning sun, and his sword was as sharp as always. Everyone around him saw him diligently getting ready for battle and they could not help but be inspired. The news of Lord Gunther was growing like mold through the camp. This would be a difficult day.

The knight knew he had to press on and keep his eyes on his mission. He also knew that others would look to him for a word of comfort and encouragement. The more he thought about it the more he felt inadequate to handle the task given to him by the king. The king! The king would know exactly what to do and say. The knight thought of the king and how he would act in a similar situation. A glimmer of hope ran across his heart and he looked up at the sunny day – today, he would imitate the king.

The kingdom is still at war.

3 ingredients that affect the “taste of instruction”

2009-10-10T01:26:00.011-05:00

From an early age I have tasted the fruit of instruction (read “instruction”, as in feedback, constructive criticism, or correction). Initially I did not like it at all because it always brought me face to face with the reality of my shortcomings. The Bible instucts "A truly good friend will openly correct you. You can trust a friend who corrects you, but kisses from an enemy are nothing but lies." (Proverbs chapter 27 verses 5 and 6)

Over the years, I've learned that the fruit of instruction can taste sweet, bitter-sweet, bitter, or you could choke on it.

I believe “the taste of instruction” is dependent on 3 ingredients: (1) the recipient - the person receiving the instruction, (2) the ego of the recipient, and (3) the provider – the person giving the instruction.

The Recipient could be either willing/committed to receiving instruction or firmly unwilling to listen to any instruction (actually most of us are somewhere in-between depending on topic).
The Ego of the recipient could be small or large (realistically all of us are somewhere in between the two extremes).
The Provider could approach the situation either in a humble/compassionate way or in a totally derogatory manner (I think most providers are somewhere in-between depending on attitude, skill and competency).

So, what will “instruction” taste like if we mix the 3 ingredients? Here’s what I’ve learned to expect:

SWEET: Anytime the recipient is willing to receive instruction, has a small ego, and the provider is humble.
BITTER-SWEET: Anytime the recipient is willing, and one or both of the following are true: the ego is large, and/or the provider is derogatory. The sweetness comes from the participant being willing to learn in all situations. The amount of bitterness is directly proportionate to the amount of ego and the level of derogatory attitude of the provider.
BITTER: Anytime the recipient is unwilling to receive instruction.
CHOKE HAZARD: The recipient is unwilling to receive instruction, has a large ego, and the provider is derogatory. (Ouch!)

Prayer

2008-03-29T10:00:00.008-05:00

Lord God, in your great mercy, you decided to reveal part of who you are through the written words of the Scriptures. Through the scriptures we have learned of your great power to create the universe and everything in it. You are sovereign over all, and there is no one like you. Your word has shown us how different your ways are from our ways. We’ve observed how your hand guides the nations to accomplish your plan. Lord, we know there are no dark places that can hide us from you gaze. Our words are known to you before we even speak them; and our actions are not a surprise to you. You, Lord are holy and righteous. Your justice is perfect and your grace is sufficient. Your love is overwhelming. You are the only eternal, true, and living God.

Lord, how awesome it is that you have extended your hand to us so that we may get to know you in a personal way, and experience you in an intimate relationship. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus, your son, you have granted us permission to be called children of God.

Father, how can we even begin to thank you for the privilege of standing in your presence? Should we fall silent to the floor in awe? Or should we shout with joy? Should we lift our hands to you with singing, or dance before you like King David? Lord, we know it is right to worship you in spirit and in truth, so regardless of our outward response, please soften our hearts so that we may completely surrender ourselves to you.

Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my moments and my days; let them flow in ceaseless praise.
Take my hands, and let them move at the impulse of Thy love.
Take my feet, and let them be swift and beautiful for Thee.
Take my voice, and let me sing always, only, for my King.
Take my lips, and let them be filled with messages from Thee.
Take my silver and my gold; not a mite would I withhold.
Take my intellect, and use every power as Thou shalt choose.
Take my will, and make it Thine; it shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart, it is Thine own; it shall be Thy royal throne.
Take my love, my Lord, I pour at Thy feet its treasure store.
Take myself, and I will be ever, only, all for Thee.

Look deep into our hearts, God, and know our thoughts. Please don't let us follow evil ways, but lead us in your way. Our desire is to trust you regardless of the circumstances we’re in and to obey you in all things.

STORY TIME!! “At the gate” (ch 3)

2008-03-06T12:18:00.013-06:00

Once upon a time in the great (and of course far away) country of West lived a young knight. He married a lovely young maiden and God had blessed them with children. He was well known throughout the land as the “Sharpest Sword in the West” (episode 1). Aside from the little uneventful adventure when he heard the “Sounds of Battle Far Off” (episode 2), the knight went on with his life. Although the kingdom was at war, the knight lived in relative peace on an estate provided by the king; the king is merciful.

Whenever the knight had business at the royal courts, he made every effort to avoid seeing the king except for the times when he was duty bound to stand in his presence. At those times, he felt there was something missing in his life, that he aught to DO something, but he refused to meditate on those thoughts. He longed to hear the news and reports from the battle field that were presented to the king. The knight’s heart stirred in him as other brave warriors would recount the tales of courage and describe the difficulties of the battlefield – the war was very close.

Then, one day, while the knight was mending the fences on his land, his heart sank when he saw from afar a group of warriors riding fast toward him; their powerful war horses stirring up a great cloud of dust on the road. Without another glance, and knowing he did not have a moment to lose, he tossed the tools aside, and mounted his already excited horse. He galloped back to the house and with loud cries and shouts he sounded the alarm. The entire household was gripped with fear. With utmost haste, the knight helped his wife, son, daughter, and any servants who had not already run, climb down in the hiding place that was dug in the back of the orchard. Once they were safe, the knight grabbed his sword and ran to meet his foe by the gates of the courtyard.

He stopped at the gate and waited in ambush hidden from view. Standing there, in the silence, his excitement grew. His breathing began to quicken and chills ran down his back; he heard the sound of hoofs and armor clanking – initially far off, but now they were close. The knight raised his sword and got ready to strike. He was ready to fight, ready to defend, ready to die if necessary. He thought about his family, they were safe in the hiding place; he thought about the castle, was it under attack as well? Was it hopeless, maybe he should hide also? No, there is no time. He must stand and fight even if it meant death. It was certain death, for how can one knight stand against a group of warriors? The sounds of hoofs stopped and he heard them dismounting.

He gripped the sword tighter and lifted it with intent; he lowered his arm to strike but a commanding voice paralyzed him and he stood motionless. The powerful words gripped his pounding heart. A flood of emotions invaded his being. Part of him was dazed, confused-- how could this be? His eyes saw what his ears told him. The king of the land, his king, was standing at the gate, in the very doorstep of his house, asking to come in, asking the knight to dine with him that evening.

Imagine the knight’s surprise, relief, shock, and puzzlement! Sometime ago, the knight had refused the king’s request to ride out with his fellow knights and take back the land that was overrun by invaders. And now, the same king is honoring him with a visit? It seemed backwards! The knight could not comprehend why the king left his magnificent palace and took the time to travel down to his home. It did not seem proper! It just was not done. But his king had done it, and the knight was overjoyed at the visit.

At that very moment, the knight’s heart was transformed and with his entire being he made a new commitment to the king. But would the king accept him? The knight shuddered to think of it; perhaps the king would give him a second chance. With a heavy heart and a head filled with emotions the knight fell at the feet of the king and knelt on the hard ground. He was about to speak when the king took him by the shoulders and raised him up, looked deep into his eyes and his gaze seemed to split the knight’s marrow from his bones. The king smiled, and nodded with approval. In the simplest way the king asked “Are you prepared to serve me?” to which the knight was ready to answer “With all my heart, Lord”

That evening, the knight, his family, and all his servants dined with the king. It was a time of renewal and celebration; it was a time of commitment and planning. The kingdom is still at war.

If looks could kill

2008-02-29T23:45:00.000-06:00

I was looking through some of the pictures I had taken these last few months deciding which ones would be worth keeping. It was hard to decide. Don’t get me wrong, they are not all masterpieces; on the contrary, they are average family pictures with the subject out of focus, not centered, or in bad lighting.

Which reminds me of something I have heard from a speaker recently – it seems that in our American society “looking good” and “feeling good” have replaced “being good” and “doing good” as primary core values. With messages like “image is everything” and popular media focusing so much on looks, no wander we have lost our perspective.

So what can we do about it? Actually, more to the point, what do I do about it? I have to have my values straight, my priorities in order, and the discipline to hold on to them. I believe I will need at least two things: (1) a daily “recalibration” and rededication to my values, (2) a set of values that are timeless (i.e. they do not change based on trends or the latest jargon). I already have a set of timeless values from the Scriptures, now I have to focus on the daily discipline to be the man that God intends me to be.

STORY TIME!! "Drowning the Sounds" (ch 2)

2008-02-08T21:42:00.001-06:00

Once upon a time in the great (and of course far away) country of West lived a young knight. He married a lovely young maiden and God had blessed them with children. He was well known throughout the land as the “Sharpest Sword in the West”.

Sometime ago, the knight had refused the king’s request to ride out with his fellow knights and take back the land that was overrun by invaders. In spite of his training, the knight chose to live in relative peace with his family on an estate provided by the King; the King was both merciful and wise.

One day, as the young knight was returning home from the royal courts he thought he heard the sounds of battle far off, but the sounds were faint. By the time he stopped to listen, the battle sounds were gone. He could hear only the leaves dancing in the wind, the eagle’s song above his head, and the fast pounding of his heart.

In the silence, his excitement grew. His breathing began to quicken and chills ran down his back. Was it his imagination again? Was it another of those “strange coincidences” that he had encountered lately? He wanted something -- but what? There was something missing in his life but he refused to think about it. The familiar feeling that he ought to DO something had returned, and this time it was strong.

The knight tried telling himself that there are others handling the battles, and, they are, no doubt, better qualified for the job. He thought about the work that had to be done at home. He told himself the King allowed him to stay back – it was the will of the King. The knight’s mind would have kept going, but the horse stirred under him and he was jolted back to the task at hand. Unsettled, he continued on his way home.

At home, there were enough distractions to keep him occupied; the important questions from earlier were stifled. The knight found respite by focusing on the daily work. There was fire wood to split, barn animals to feed, stalls to clean, fences to mend, and repairs to be made on his home. He helped his wife draw water from the well and carried it back in the house. With the work done, he took some time to play with his son and daughter. Later in the evening, the family gathered by the fire to hear his eloquent explanations of sword fighting technique and read stories from The King’s Book of Wisdom.

After the children were asleep the knight settled at his desk. He took paper and quill and wrote letters to his friends, neighbors, and business associates. His loving wife sat next to him reading peacefully. After some time, she got up, smiled, embraced him gently, and retired for the night.

With a willing heart, the knight forgot about the sounds of battle he heard earlier that day…

He finished his letters;
blew out the candle;
walked over to the bed and got in.

He thought about the next day’s activities;
and fell sound asleep.

Meanwhile, there were sounds of battle far off,

but the sounds... were no longer faint.

The kingdom is still at war.

...like an annoying song

2008-02-01T01:31:00.000-06:00

I recently had to return several library books that my family had checked out. As I was placing each one in the return bin, two words from the title of one of the books stood out to me – it read “Going Solo…”

I did not think much of it at the time, but the title stuck with me. I thought about it later that afternoon. I thought about it the next day, and the next, and the next. It was like an annoying song that gets in your head, and you keep singing over and over in your mind.

I’m not an expert in how the mind works, but while I was thinking about “Going Solo…” there were several other thoughts that “danced” around it; here they are in no particular order.

We live in a culture that admires individuality. We love (generally speaking) the “Lone Ranger”, “Superman”, “Indiana Jones”, and “Rocky”. So we admire people who beat the odds – but are they really going SOLO?

We are NOT created to be lone rangers. If that was the case, then solitary confinement would be an enjoyable pass time rather than something they use in prisons.
There is something very selfish about “going solo” – no one else to worry about, my rules, my time, my life. I will do what I want to do and no one can tell me otherwise.
“Going solo” temps us to think simplistically. But we are not simple creatures. All of us at one time or another have struggled (are struggling) with questions of origin (who am I, where did I come from), meaning (why am I here, what is my purpose in this life, I want to do something meaningful), morality (what is the right thing, who can set the standard for right and wrong, what is justice), and destiny (what happens when/after I die, is there an eternity).

Think about it…

the rhythm of regular life

2008-01-03T09:27:00.000-06:00

After the angels finished their chorus, after the shepherds went back to their sheep, and perhaps after the magi left their gifts and returned to their homelands, Mary and Joseph had to go back to the rhythm of regular life. In all likelihood that meant cooking, cleaning, laundry, and a job that put food on the table. I would not be surprised if Mary and Joseph pondered the events that went by as they went about the daily work. It’s quite normal to think about an exciting or meaningful event days, months, and even years after it happened – to replay in your mind the sounds, the images, the words spoken, and the smells of that event.

For me, when I think of the Christmas story, I linger over the words the angel spoke to Joseph in his dream (see Mathew 1: 20):

But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him
in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your
wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear
a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their
sins."

The angel reminds Joseph that in spite of his humble circumstances, he is royalty – he is the son (descendant) of king David. That must have encouraged Joseph. Others saw him as a carpenter, but God saw him as a prince.

As Christians, we too are encouraged in a similar way (see 1Peter 2:9):

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his
own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out
of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now
you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received
mercy.

So in the rhythm of regular life, I pray that my thoughts, words, actions, and motives would proclaim the excellencies of Him who called me out or darkness into His marvelous light.

whimsical but with a lesson.

2007-12-11T08:11:00.000-06:00

This is a poem by Alex, age 9. I got a smile out of this one so I wanted to share it with you.

once there was a dinosaur,
who was a carnivore,
and lived in Baltimore,
during the Civil War.

who caused an uproar,
when he bought a drugstore,
and found a trapdoor,
on the first floor.

therefore, it led door-to-door,
in a door he found a apple core,
in a another door he saw even more,
so he went outdoor.

he saw a gun,
he thought it was fun,
but, now he is no more.

STORY TIME!! “The Sharpest Sword in the West” (ch 1)

2007-11-30T00:51:00.001-06:00

Once upon a time in the great (and of course far away) country of West lived a young knight. His life was, up to this time, an ordinary knight’s life. He had successfully completed all the training requirements and after his knighthood ceremony he entered this elite class of warriors.

All who saw him were amazed. His armor was complete and in order, his shield shone like the sun, and his sword was always sharp. Everyone loved to see him train for battle in the royal courts. It was clear to see that he was diligent in his training. Because of his perseverance, he knew the art of fighting with lance, sword, battle axe, mace, flail, and bow. But he was an unmatched expert with the sword.

That fact did not go unnoticed by the young squires. They regularly gathered around the young knight to hear his eloquent explanations of sword fighting technique. The knight also took time to show and demonstrate the right moves, often spending individual time with several of these knights-in-training. Because he was so diligent, the knight would always end his sessions by showing his eager students how to keep the sword’s edge as sharp as possible.

Sharpening a sword was no easy task. It took a lot of patience, discipline, and a steady hand. Sharpening his sword was a task the knight did not mind. He knew that a good warrior always keeps his sword sharp -- and that’s what he wanted to be: a good warrior.

As time passed, the knight found a lovely young maiden. They fell in love and they married. After a while God blessed them with children. The knight desired with all his heart to be a good husband and father, but he also did not neglect his training. His armor was complete and in order, his shield shone like the sun, and his sword was always sharp. Everyone loved to see him train for battle in the royal courts.

Then one day the king summoned his knights and told them that war was upon them. This was the moment for which the knights had trained and their king was asking for their service. Each company of knights was presented with a specific mission and asked to carry it out faithfully.

The knight received his orders like all others. After reading and understanding his mission, his heart was heavy. He was being asked to go on a quest that was both difficult and important. As he spent time in thought; he sought the counsel of others including neighbors, merchants, and fellow knights. After some time he reached a decision and approached the king. With a heavy heart he respectfully declined his quest saying that his family needed him at home. The king, who was both merciful and wise, heard the knight’s decision but did not get angry or punish him for insubordination. Instead, after a moment of silence, the king dismissed the knight who then returned to his home.

As time passed, there were rumors and news of war. There were battles won and battles lost. There were heroes and martyrs. Stories of valor and courage were told around campfires at night. There was victory and tragedy throughout the kingdom. The kingdom was at war.

Meanwhile, the knight’s armor was complete and in order, his shield shone like the sun, and his sword was always sharp – very sharp. Everyone saw him train for battle in the royal courts and they saw him sharpening his sword at the end of the day. Some still gathered around to hear his eloquent explanations of sword fighting technique. But many wondered when he will stop sharpening the sword and get into the fight.

The kingdom is still at war.

"Finally, let the mighty strength of the Lord make you strong.
Put on all the armor that God gives, so you can defend yourself against the devil's tricks.
We are not fighting against humans. We are fighting against forces and authorities and against rulers of darkness and powers in the spiritual world.
So put on all the armor that God gives. Then when that evil day comes, you will be able to defend yourself. And when the battle is over, you will still be standing firm.
Be ready! Let the truth be like a belt around your waist, and let God's justice protect you like armor.
Your desire to tell the good news about peace should be like shoes on your feet.
Let your faith be like a shield, and you will be able to stop all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Let God's saving power be like a helmet, and for a sword use God's message that comes from the Spirit.
Never stop praying, especially for others. Always pray by the power of the Spirit. Stay alert and keep praying for God's people.
Pray that I will be given the message to speak and that I may fearlessly explain the mystery about the good news."
Eph 6:10-19
Next Story

going classic

2007-11-27T07:08:00.000-06:00

After the Thanksgiving Holiday Jennie and I decided to get her cross-country skis fixed and buy some used ones for the boys. Since money does not grow on trees at our house, we started by doing our homework. We checked sales, looked online, talked it over, and then decided the best fit for our needs and our budget (yeap, reality). It was quite a process but in the end we decided against buying new -- so we went “vintage” (aka pre-owned, dated, antique, second hand, used, historic, classic, old).

There is a strange dichotomy about “going classic”. On one hand no one wants old junk like a pre-owned toothbrush, or a used match; but on the other hand it’s easy to appreciate a classic car, an antique statue, an old fine wine, or a historic mansion. Since “one man’s junk is another man’s treasure”, the trick is knowing the difference between real junk and authentic treasure.

This “trick” is not limited just to our physical world (like skis, cars, or mansions); I believe it applies to ideas and life-models as well. Old ideas should not necessarily be dismissed because they are old; and new ideas should not be embraced just because they are new. Let me illustrate. “Thou shall not murder because God said so.” is a very old idea. In a society that is pushed more and more toward violence, this idea becomes even more valuable. So in our world that is filled with instant information and focused on the newest upgrade filled with the latest features, we need be very selective so that we don’t end up with junk instead of treasure.

Well, now that we have our new old skis, I’m so glad for the Internet since it helped us with our ski purchase. But I’m even more thankful for The Bible since it provides clear guidance regarding real junk and authentic treasure.

And Jesus said to his disciples, "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you. Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." Luke 12:22-34

commitment

2007-11-08T05:27:00.000-06:00

Powerful words of commitment from an African martyr.

"I'm part of the fellowship of the unashamed.I have the Holy Spirit power. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made - I'm a disciple of His. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, my future is secure.

I'm finished and done with low living, sight walking, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, worldly talking, cheap giving and dwarfed goals. I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded.I now live by faith, lean on His presence, walk by patience, am uplifted by prayer and I labor with power. My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough but my Guide is reliable.

I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, pander at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity. I won't give up, shut up, let up, until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, preached up for the cause of Christ. I am a disciple of Jesus. I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work until He stops me. And, when He comes for His own, He will have no problem recognizing me...my banner will be clear."

I heard it recently from Muriithi Wanjau (guest speaker) when I attended a mid-week Harvest Fest service at Elmbrook church.

so, why is that?

2007-10-23T22:42:00.000-05:00

I know, many of us have heard the Bible stories retold; we have seen touching videos that remind us about God; and we may have read good inspiring books that discuss the words of the Bible – and all these are good. But if that's all we did to "keep in touch" with God, I think we missed something.

Here are a few questions that may help illustrate my point:

Have you neglected to read the real thing, the original, the living Word of God in favor of another good book? Does it seem easier to read books about the Bible rather than the Bible? Why is that?

Have you stopped getting together with God in intimate conversation? What was the longest time you have spent in prayer? Do you run out of things to say when you pray? Do you get sleepy when you pray? Why is that?

Are you placing less value on corporate worship (i.e. going to church) than you used to? Why is that?

Do you feel ok talking about God with your friends, but feel a little uncomfortable talking about the Lord Jesus Christ with them? Why is that?

Do you think about God as a constant companion? If you do, how often do you consult with him during the day? Do you find it more helpful to talk to a friend about a problem or to bring it before God? Why is that?

Do you know what your friend would want you to do in a particular situation but you struggle to know what God would want you to do? Why is that?

Do you long for the weekend more than you long for God? Why is that?

I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. (Psalm 63: 2-4)

finally signed up

2007-10-17T21:42:00.000-05:00

After meeting with a friend of mine who loves facebook, I decided to finally sign up for it. It was quite painless, although my facebook profile and site are far from complete. So far I’m having fun finding all sorts of features that I can add (like a daily Bible verse), and I’m looking for others -- feel free to send me your suggestions.

I want the “wow!” back!

2007-10-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

This summer I happened to be on a walk through some of the nearby woods when I spotted a butterfly on a flower. I got very close and, to my surprise, the butterfly did not move and instead, it let itself be examined by my curious eyes. I thought it was quite “cool”, so in my excitement I showed it to a young person who was with me that day. “Oh, it’s just a butterfly” was the casual response and then moved on.

With my excitement a little deflated, I too moved on, but I could not help thinking: was the miracle of creation passing us by without so much as a “wow!”? Perhaps we have seen too many pictures of these beautiful creatures and the spectacular pictures have dulled our senses to the miracle of the real thing.

I guess familiarity does breed contempt; and it’s true in other areas of our life not just the miracle of creation. I believe that many Christians too often look at the Scripture stories in a casual way because we’ve “been there and done that” Bible story before.

Have we forgotten that we are dealing with a sacred and ancient text that was put together over several centuries by many individuals from various economic and social backgrounds in geographically dispersed locations? And in spite of so many differences, the messages contained in the Scriptures are consistent, accurate, and life-changing? (WOW!) Do we not remember, have we not seen the power that comes from the Word (the real thing)?

Yea, I want the “wow!” back.

letterboxing

2007-09-24T22:02:00.000-05:00

With the wonderful weather we had on Sunday, my family and I decided we would do some letterboxing. What a great time! Although we took a wrong turn, we ended up finding one of the four boxes we were searching for. After that we all got tired and hungry so we headed for home.

Some of you may not be familiar with letterboxing, but it has been around in one form or another for over 150 years. In the US, letterboxing started gaining popularity in 1998 after the Smithsonian Magazine featured it in an article.

If some of you are into letterboxing and have a favorite route, please share it with me.

in the midst of war

2007-09-20T23:45:00.000-05:00

If you read the front pages of newspapers, it seems that war is all around us. Regardless of how many troops and bombs we hear about in the news, we can't forget that, as Christians, our struggle is not against people but rather against evil spiritual powers.

"We are not fighting against humans. We are fighting against forces and authorities and against rulers of darkness and powers in the spiritual world." Ephesians 6:12 (Contemporary English Version)

I have a question for you (which I am also dealing with myself)... If you were in the middle of a dramatic spiritual cosmic battle how would you recognize it ? What would an attack look like?

In my immediate surroundings it seems there is no war to deal with.

I live in an ordinary house... in a very peaceful neighborhood... I go to a regular 9 to 5 job... and have a great family. There is no light saber that I can strap at my side, or Jedi master to impart wisdom, and there are definitely no imperial forces surrounding my city.

... how do you see (or experience) the spiritual battle mentioned in Ephesians ?

so, what's with the name "deer pants"

2007-09-20T00:22:00.001-05:00

Before your vivid imagination takes off regarding the name of my blog, let me just say that it was quite an agonizing experience to come up with a name for my blog. Out of sheer desperation, after minutes of tense indecision, I settled on these two words: deer and pants.

So, why the two words? I assure you that deer pants does not refer to the latest fashion statement but rather to the beginning of one of my favorite word images:

"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God ?"
Psalm 42: 1, 2
Since God is the most powerful, smartest, and wisest Being that I know of, you can see my logic in wanting to meet with him so that I get to know him.