The Real Stars

Today the Academy Award Nominations will be announced. Joaquin Phoenix is a shoe-in for this nomination. And I hope he wins for his brilliant portrayal of Johnny Cash in the excellent film, "Walk the Line" (one of my favorites of 2005, along with "Chronicles of Narnia" and "Pride and Prejudice"). And I'm inclined to think that Reese Witherspoon will win the Oscar for best actress, having already grabbed the Golden Globes and Screen Actor awards.

Isn't it interesting, though, that with all the hype leading up to the Oscar Awards, by next year, many of us will forget who won. Alright, pop quiz: Who won the award for best supporting actor last year? I can't remember either.

As I think of all the stars of Hollywood, so elevated and almost worshipped by our culture, those whose lives we're fascinated with as we glance at People Magazine while waiting in the grocery line, I rewind back to a banquet we had a few months ago at the Christian Service Center. Each year we have a dinner recognizing all our precious volunteers who work tirelessly each week serving the poor. In 2005 they gave over 15,000 hours in service. Don Baber, who is here nearly every day (and comes on the weekends to put clothes left on our dock into the building) won the "Top of the Hill" award -- having worked the most hours that year...1,573 hours!

Near the end of our dinner, after handing out awards, gift certificates and certificates for the number of hours volunteers had worked that year, I gave a brief message. And I quoted a section of a book by Philip Yancey, who commented on the words of Jesus, “Blessed are the meek.” In his observation as a journalist, Yancey noted how the Hollywood stars often had such painful and troubled lives. In contrast, he described the heroes, the "stars" that he has interviewed over the years who had given up very prestigious jobs and positions in order to work among the poor in the inner cities or serve those in Africa suffering from AIDS. To Yancey, these are the true stars in God's eyes.

As I finished this quote, I looked around the room and saw Imogene Mickey, age 91, who has worked here nearly every week day -- for the past 20 years. And Bert Lana, age 83, who often arrives at our building at 7 A.M. to open up, make the coffee and wash clothes. And Gertrude Filopovich, who has faithfully been here each week the past 15 years, interviewing our neighbors with compassion and wisdom. I told them, "You are the stars in God's eyes." Right after I said these words, I choked up and couldn't speak for what seemed like a minute. It was a holy moment, where it seemed the Spirit of God had gripped me with the realization that I was in the company of champions of the faith. Then I finally told them, "I’d much rather spend time with servants like you than with the stars."

As you think of the servant-stars in your life -- perhaps a grandmother, or a behind-the- scenes servant at your church -- who comes to mind? I'm sure they'll have a greater and more lasting impact on this world than anyone who will be nominated today for best editing, sound or actress.

Jim

The Beauty of Long Term Commitment

I'm still in an afterglow from yesterday's Sunday worship. Mike's message on marriage and divorce, taken from the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 5, was absolutely riveting (for those of you who don't live in Abilene I highly recommend that you order the CD of this sermon on 1-29-06. Go to highlandchurch.org to see how to order it).

He did such a good job of telling us of God's grace for all of us "moral screwups," reminding us that none of us merits good standing before God -- that only through the grace of God through Jesus Christ can we be made right by God. Those who go have gone through the heart-wrenching pain of divorce should not be treated as second class citizens in the body of Christ.

And yet Mike took such a strong stand for marriage, which, as he pointed out, is Jesus' main emphasis in this passage. Jesus is telling us as His followers that we must have a righteousness that surpasses that of the Pharisees -- that is, not outward appearances of religiosity but a deep inner goodness (which I would add, only comes through our hearts being regenerated by the Holy Spirit when we put our faith in Christ).

What got me most, as I listened to this sermon while seated next to my bride of 24 plus years, is how Mike talked about the beauty of long-term commitment, where a couple shares a story for a life time -- through the tough times and the bad times. It made me think of an event earlier this weekend where Susan and I attended the 50th Anniversary of John and Evelyn Willis - one of our beloved elder couples. They have raised four kids, served thousands of students through John's teaching ministry at ACU, have had countless numbers of these students in their homes, and have ministered to so many others in hospitals and homes through John's work as an elder for nearly 30 years. Like all marriages, it is an imperfect relationship. But it is a Christ-honoring relationship. The beauty of a long obedience in the same direction, to borrow from the words of Eugene Peterson.

I long for that long-term commitment with Susan, and ask the Lord that He would give us at least 26 more years together. So we can have a marriage that would glorify Him and bless our children and grandchildren with a model of long-term commitment.

I realize that because of sin in this world and in our hearts, marriages sometimes come to a crashing end -- even among those who claim Jesus Christ as their Savior. Susan and I prayed for such a person yesterday at the close of the service. A single mom whose husband left her to raise their two young children...after 10 years of marriage.

However, can't we be vigilant about guarding our marriages from the enemy? Must we look at divorce as a valid option? And isn't it vital that when we go through turbulent waters in our marriages that we quickly reach out to Christian friends, a Spirit-led counselor and/or some church leaders to keep us from drowning in conflict? My experience has been that those who are proactive about asking for help with their marriage problems are more likely to save their relationship than those who hide their problems... until it was too late.

I'm thinking that if all of us in the body of Christ would be humble enough to say to those we trust, "I need help....we need help," we're much less likely to let the enemy of our souls get a foothold in our hearts. The sweetest moment after Mike's sermon was when this young couple came to the back and walked up to Susan and me ( who were complete strangers to them) and said, "We're getting married in June. Would you pray God's blessings over our marriage?" What a privilege it was for us to lay hands on these young college students and ask the Lord to grant them a marriage that will last a lifetime.

For those of you who heard the message yesterday, how did it hit you? For the rest of you, what stories do you have about the power of long-term commitment in marriage?

In His grip,

Jim

“Who makes mouths?”

Do you remember the first time you were thrust into a situation where you were way out of your comfort system? Where someone asked you to perform a task, give a speech, take on some project in which you felt terribly unqualified? So do I.

My dear friend, former co-worker and mentor Randy Becton often pushed me to do something which I would normally run from. We worked together in a media ministry for nine years. He was the one who urged me to write radio scripts, booklets and eventually two books. He believed in me and could sense some of my latent gifts that were being under-used.

Randy felt strongly that hurting people needed to hear the word and a message of hope...and not just read it. Sometimes he would pull me into his studio and challenge me to record a brief message about God's grace, or how to fight off depression or what to do when you don't sense that God loves you. I remember staring at that microphone while Randy adjusted all the knobs as he prepared to record an interview with me. I didn't want to do it. I felt like running. Yet Randy calmed me down as he led us in prayer and quoted one of his favorite verses when facing his own feelings of inadequacy, "'Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit.' says the Lord Almighty. (Zech. 4:6).

Note that description of the Lord -- the Lord Almighty! That's what I need to hear when facing moments where I feel like shrinking back from what the Lord is calling me to do. Knowing that the Lord Almighty has commissioned me and has promised to be with me helps me to not dwell on my weaknesses and insecurities...and to instead claim the power of the resurrected Jesus Christ in my life.

In my Bible reading this morning, I meditated on this fascinating story where the LORD called Moses to go back to Egypt and lead the children of Israel out of bondage. In order to insure Moses that He was with him, the Lord gave him some signs that He is truly the Lord Almighty. But Moses protested, telling the Lord of his lack of speaking ability. And then the Lord gives this wonderful response that I read over and over this morning:


"Who makes mouths?" the Lord asked him. "Who makes people so they can speak or not speak, hear or not hear, see or not see? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go, and do as I have told you. I will help you speak well, and I will tell you what to say." -- Ex. 4:11-12

Who makes mouths? Wow! What a great reminder when we're tempted to shrink back and not step out in faith into new adventures with the living God.

Lord, please keep our eyes fixed on You...and not on our weaknesses. Help us know that You made us and through Christ have re-made us. And that You have commissioned us to go to those who are in bondage to the enemy through their sin. Use us to lead many people out of their spiritual wilderness as we continue to be spokesmen and spokeswomen for You. Help us speak the gospel well. Anoint our lips and tongues with the power of the Holy Spirit so we can speak forth with boldness the good news of Jesus Christ. And may those to whom we speak have ears to hear. In Jesus we pray, Amen.

Jim

Thinking outside the box

Yesterday was such a stimulating day! Joe Almanza, our community minister with Highland, dropped by the office. He, Steve (our intern) and I had some wonderful discussions and then prayer time.

Then Homer Hillis came by for lunch. He is Mr. "Out of the Box." Homer is always dreaming, always thinking of new ways to do things. Such a visionary and mind-stretcher. He recently went out to Mac World in California and learned about some of the wonderful things happening in blogs -- such as blog-casting.

Homer also got us to think about how we can connect our neighbors (those that come here each day for food, clothing, etc.) with the gospel and the body of Christ. In pointing them to the Way, do we just hand them a Bible? Say a quick prayer for them? Give them food and clothing... and in essence be saying, "Be warm and filled?"

We all agreed that we need to do much more than "get them in a church." I want them to personally experience the power of Jesus Christ in delivering them from sin, giving them power to live a God-honoring life and to discover the purpose they can find in this new life in Jesus. And once we witness them confessing Jesus as Lord , how can we encourage them to get deeply connected with other believers? I'm so convinced that you cannot grow much into Christ without being deeply involved with other believers.

I'm all for what we're doing now to minister to our neighbors. But as we were discussing with Joe in the morning and Homer at lunch, isn't there a way we could be more involved in helping the poor and unemployed and disabled? I love how some ministries here in town are already doing this -- Just People and Faith Works. They come alongside the unemployed and underemployed to assist them in becoming self-sufficient. I often refer our neighbors to these ministries.

And then I think of people from my church like Maria White who has been steadfastly ministering to children and their families at the Colonial Apartments in Abilene -- a place noted for drugs and other snares of the enemy. She has helped these families over the long haul -- much more than I ever have.

I'd love for you to read Steve Holt's reflections on yesterday's meeting. See www.harvestboston.net The Post is titled "Friendship Houses." Let's keep praying and encouraging one another in how we can allow the Spirit of Jesus Christ to flow through us as we bless each person that crosses our path...especially "the least of these."

Jim

Transforming Moments

My intern at the Service Center, Steve Holt, is continually sharing with me stimulating material to read or hear. Recently he handed me a CD entitled "Revolution." It contains excerpts from the book Revolution that is read by its author, church researcher George Barna. The material is so challenging and foundation-shaking that I'm finding myself listening to it in small segments, and often rewinding the CD in order to hear again his provocative findings. Frankly, it is so challenging at times that I feel like turning off my CD player at times. But I feel that if I'm going to keep following Jesus and take seriously this call to take up my cross and follow Him daily, I must allow myself to be stretched by the Holy Spirit. And oh, how stretching this CD is by George Barna! And yet so exciting, too!

Barna tells of a movement of the Spirit throughout the United States that he and his team of researchers are witnessing. And much of this movement is beyond the borders of the institutional church. Small pockets of disciples, who are taking very seriously their relationship with the living Christ, are seeking and finding avenues of deep spiritual transformation.

Barna said that he was stunned when his research showed that most of these believers who have had transforming moments with Christ did not experience these life-changing events within the context of the typical local church. Instead, they met Christ in fresh ways through what Barna calls "mini-movements" -- small groups that were outside a congregational connection.

Although I'm not ready to abandon my involvement in my own church, which I love deeply, I do want to experience all that God has for me and my fellow believers in Christ. And I want our church to encourage our members to seek out a vibrant relationship with Jesus within these mini-movements that He initiates.

As I look back on my experiences as a Christian, I think of the many mini-movements of the Spirit that the Lord has given me. Here are a few that come to mind:

1. Our small group one Sunday night when we prayed over a couple who were excited about the upcoming birth of their baby -- but were deeply concerned about the breast cancer that has stricken the mom. After praying over them and anointing them with oil, we listened to our "David" of the group, Rod Pringle, who played on his guitar and song a very touching song he had written lately, "I Am With You."

2. Worshipping Jesus with believers from several denominations on a weekend Walk to Emmaus, witnessing the love of Christ like I've never witnessed before. I've been on several of these and each time have been overwhelmed with the way the power and love of Jesus breaks through when a group of His children gather to worship Him and call upon His Name.

3. Having prayer time with two beloved co-workers at my previous job, where we shared deeply from our hearts and then held each other as we went to the Father together in prayer.

4. Meeting my dear friend, Bob Amis, at a Denny's in Memphis. He and I were fellow graduate students and would have an early morning breakfast and Bible study after working into the wee hours at Federal Express.

I want to be more in tune with the movements of the Spirit that so often happen outside my regular church meeting experiences.

What spiritually transforming moment have you had lately in a mini-movement of God's Spirit? It may come your way some time this day. Let's ask God to meet us today in some unexpected ways -- and to also be there for others so that they can "taste and see that the Lord is good" as they meet Jesus in us.

Jim

Brazil Bound

What a great evening it was last night. About 40 of us gathered at the house of Chris and Cathy Moore, giving our send off to Christina. She is from Itu, Brazil and has been staying with a family in Abilene and looking into graduate school in the states. As I think about that scene last night -- all these high school and college students playing ping pong in the garage, shooting pool in the family room and hanging out in the kitchen -- I thought of how awesome our God is. And I go back to 1995 when 13 of us from the Highland church went to Saltillo, Mexico for a short-term mission trip one summer. We went back there two more times. And then in the fall of 1998, Antenor Goncalves, a missionary in Itu, Brazil whom our church supports, invited a group of us to come to Brazil for a campaign. At the time, it seemed like such a daunting task -- and so much money to raise. And yet God put together a wonderful team of 41 people -- families -- and provided from various sources all the funds we needed, and we eventually boarded a plane to Sao Paulo, Brazil in June of 2000.

Two years later 116 of us from Highland returned to Itu to put on an evangelistic camp for teenagers, a medical mission, worked at a children's orphanage, lprovided eadership training, hosted a Bible Times Marketplace and engaged in one-on-one Bible studies. Over time people came to Christ. The church there was greatly edified ... and those of us who had the privilege of going have never been the same.

About 60 of us went back there last summer. Each time some new people joined us on these missions. And many them ended up being leaders, encouraging others to go. Now God has raised up 46 of us --the majority of them high school and college students -- to go to Itu in June 2006 to put on another camp for the teenagers. These short-term mission trips have been one of the greatest highlights of my life, as I and many others have witnessed the power and provision and joy of the Lord in our preparation for these trips and while there in Brazil.

And so I go back to last night. Many of the "jovenes" (Portuguese for young people) at the house last night have never been to Brazil. But they plan to go with us this summer. And I can't wait to see what an impact they will make for Jesus at the camp - and how our Lord will change their lives, too. I can already see the joy in their hearts as they begin working as a team, united by the Holy Spirit, to bring the good news to Itu, Brazil.

Jesus said that it is more blessed to give than receive. I've definitely seen the truth of His words as I've made just a few small sacrifices of time, money and effort to be a part of these mission trips. The joy He has given me and the others that have gone to Brazil greatly exceeded all the difficulties we went through to go there each time.

How has Christ changed you as you've carried out His mission -- whether on a short-term summer outreach -- or sharing the gospel with someone in your every day life?

Jim

Last year I often noticed this book being advertised and was very curious about its title. Yesterday afternoon when I was browsing the new book section of the library, there it was. I knew it was time to check this book out and read it: Approval Addiction by Joyce Meyer. The subtitle will grab you: "Overcoming Your Need to Please Everyone."

Last night Susan and I had a peaceful evening sitting by the fire on a cold night, each reading our books. I was immediately drawn into Joyce's teaching, thinking that she had been reading my mail...or my e-mail...or this blog. She spoke so much to the struggles I've had over the years with people pleasing. Joyce says that an approval addict will have an abnormal concern and an abundance of thoughts about what people think of them.

I didn't think that people pleasing was such a problem with me -- until several years ago when I worked through a 12 steps program at our church. God led me to a sponsor, Keith Miller's excellent book on Christ-centered recovery (The Healing Journey) and a weekly group at our church called "Christians in Recovery." During that experience God revealed to me my drug of choice: co-dependency, being too tied to the approval of others.

This desire to have everyone like me comes out when I need to confront someone. I generally hate dealing with confrontation, although God is giving me some victories in this area lately. Of course, when you work with 70 different volunteers each month as I do, you must learn to deal with confrontation and conflict resolution or you won't survive!

I remember one time last year when a volunteer showed up one morning. She had been causing our other volunteers a lot of problems and so I knew that morning it was time to sit down and have a hard talk with her. I must have paced up and down the hallway three or four times before finally getting up the nerve to ask her to sit down with me so I could gently confront her with this problem.

You probably already know what Joyce Meyer proposes as the solution to approval addiction: finding our security through Jesus Christ. I love this line: "Knowing who we are in Christ sets us free from the need to impress others. As long as we know who we are, we don't have to be overly concerned about what others think of us."

Late last night, I looked over and noticed Susan asleep on the couch. I closed the book, got on my face as I laid on the floor next to the fireplace and meditated on the Father's love. And I asked Him to help me claim once more my identity in Jesus Christ and to be delivered from approval addiction.

My prayer for all of us this week: Lord Jesus, please deliver us from this desire to please others above pleasing You. Help us to live out that old Petra song: "I want to be a God pleaser. Don't want to be a man pleaser. I just want to do the things that please the Father's will." I ask that You instill deeply into our hearts an awareness that in Christ we are accepted by You, loved by You, valued by You. And that because we are accepted through the blood of Christ, our goal and calling is to live for an audience of One. And then may we speak the truth in love with others, even when we disagree with them or are engaged in conflict with them. In the mighty Name of Jesus Christ, our righteousness and our daily strength, Amen.

How about it bloggers? How has God helped you lately in overcoming this need to please others?

Still under construction,

Jim

Spiritual Directors

Last month over the holidays I experienced some inner turmoil. Not sure why. Our family was fine. Christmas was great. Time with extended family was wonderful. But still, I found myself wrestling with feelings of restlessness, discontentment (there's that word again) and self-evaluation. My wife, Susan, is often my counselor when I go through these times. But I don't want to always burden her with these negative thoughts. And also I've learned that having spiritual counselors or directors outside of our marriage are so valuable. Yet I don't seek their counsel often enough.

But the turmoil in my soul pushed me to the point of seeking help. I shot off an e-mail to a fellow elder, David Wray, one of the most insightful and wise spiritual directors I've ever encountered. He's been a shepherd for many, many years and is one of the best teachers I've known in spiritual direction and formation.

After leaving Subway Sandwiches yesterday with a lunch that I purchased for both of us, I made my way to David's office. "Why am I a bit nervous about meeting with him,?" I thought. Later I realized that it was probably pride. I don't want to be needy and to share my neediness with another person. I'd rather pray about my worries and problems, confiding in God about them -- and also with my wife. But oh, how I need to open my heart to another trusted friend -- especially a Spirit-filled man like David who delights in having spirtual conversation with others.

We talked about the "dark night of the soul," a phrase that comes from the famous book by St. John of the Cross. David explained that what St. John was talking about was times when we need someone else to petition God on our behalf. When he made that statement I realized once more why it's vital that we share our spiritual journey (including our sins and worries and insecurities) with another Christ-follower. God uses such friends to lead us back to the throne room and give us perspective on what may be bothering us or hindering us in our walk with Christ.

David also referred to the books of Henri Nouwen quite a bit. These references to Nouwen made me want to go back and read some of his books that I've already read... and then to read some new ones -- including The Road to Daybreak (exploring his journey from the lofty ivory towers of Yale and Harvard to working among mentally challenged people in Canada). Our talk made me want to take more time out for reflection and meditation. To curb my drivenness and relentless feeling to get more accomplished.

We also discussed how to provide spiritual direction to others -- not as one who has it all together but as one who is like one beggar sharing bread with another beggar. I asked about how to be a shepherd day by day, and not just at elders' meetings. David suggested that I look at each person that I encounter throughout the day as a divine appointment. See them as someone tht God has put in my path to display His love. This idea gave me a new perspective on interruptions of others and the many brief talks that I have with our volunteers at work, such as when the come by my office or when meeting them in the hallway on the way to get a cup of coffee.

I went away from that luncheon deeply thankful to the Lord for how He slowed me down and spoke to me in this conversation and prayer time with David. It made me think how vital it is that I not be an island, but rather to continue sharing my faith journey with others believers -- whether it's me providing them some guidance... or them helping me. I'm reminded of that profound truth in Scripture: "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another" -- Prov. 27:17

My hope and prayer for you, dear reader, is that you avoid the lone ranger lifestyle that I'm so often tempted to live. That you will continually seek out "soul friends" with whom you can be gut level honest and meet Christ in their face, their words and their counsel.

Do you have some stories to share about how someone gave you some valuable spiritual direction lately?

Jim

The Favor of the Lord

I love my One Year Bible (especially the one in the New Living Translation). Early each morning I go through my routine of pouring a cup of coffee and a glass of O.J., grabbing a bowl of cereal, and settling into my favorite chair so I can read and meditate on a portion of God's word for that day. Today I read one of my favorite stories (and maybe yours, too) - about Joseph and his captivity in Egypt.

As I read about how God raised him up in Potiphar's household and prospered him tremendously, I noticed this phrase which seems to be the theme of Joseph's life: "his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD gave him success in everything he did,(Gen. 39:3) Even when he suffers setbacks and trials, being thrown into prison for a false charge, Joseph still experiences God's favor: "But while Joseph was there in the prison, the LORD was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden." (Gen. 39:23)


I began to think of this phrase "the favor of the Lord." Susan and I have a close friend in Dallas named Sharon who uses that phrase a lot, having heard it in sermons and group discussions at her church. She has a deep sense that because of Christ in her life she experiences the favor of the Lord continually. When she spends the weekend with us and something good happens while she's here she'll say, "It's the favor of the Lord on us."

We may think that this favor means that we'll always get a parking space closest to the mall entrance. Or that a huge tax refund will come our way this April. I certainly want to give God credit for every good thing that happens in my life. And yet I think of how Joseph experienced God's favor even when treated unjustly, thrown in prison and later forgotten by the cup bearer whose dream he interpreted. The favor of the Lord doesnt' mean a "cushy" life -- but it does mean that we can experience the Lord's presence and His goodness in whatever we go through. Romans 8:28 confirms it.

As I look back on my life, I become more keenly aware of His favor...even during the tough times...perhaps especially during the tough times.

* How every time a bunch of us from our church went on a mission trip to Brazil, when we had to raise a lot of money, the Lord provided. He raised the funds and there was always money left over.

* How 3 years ago when I was out of work for nearly 6 months, God provided in amazing ways. And He taught us so much about His faithfulness.

* How in so many months in the early 90's, when Susan and I were struggling to make financial ends meet, His favor was upon us. He gave us everything we needed. And we saw His faithfulness and provision over and over.

I want to be more aware of the favor of the Lord. That because of His grace in my life, since I am in Christ, I am His treasured possession, as He called the Israelites. He loves me. He cares deeply for me and all I need to do is cast my cares on Him each day (1 Peter 5:7). As the song says that was playing on the way to work, "God is watching over me."

How have you seen the favor of the Lord in your life lately? Let's expect His favor each day...and give Him the praise no matter what experiences we're going through -- whether we're in the palace or the prison.

Jim

Brought into the Light

God surprised me this week in the way he provided such a significant theological moment in, of all places, a Wal-Mart Supercenter. I had a few minutes to burn while waiting for a clerk to process a digital photo. And so I asked another Associate where the books were found. Not expecting anything near the selection of a Barnes and Noble, let alone the atmosphere, I still thought that I could find somethin useful to read while awaiting my pictures. What I read was like a mini-seminary course -- and better than some of the courses I paide for years ago.

When I found the book section, I glanced at the bestsellers and as I looked at the bottom of the shelf, there was a book that my wife had looked for earlier at another store. It was titled "Christ Our Lord," authored by the prolific writer of vampire bookes, Anne Rice. Last month I read a fascinating interview with Rice in Christianity Today (the cover story is about Narnia and contains a wonderful overview of the life of C.S. Lewis, by the way). Remarkabley, this best-selling author of many novels that were thoroughly researched and (as I assume) dismally dark, had been brought into the light. She returned to her childhood faith. Renouncing her 30 years plus years of atheism, Anne committed her life and this new book to Christ. And this change came about through pain-staking research (although I would mainly atribute her return to Christ as a move ofthe Spirit calling her home to the Father's embrace).

I skipped all the chapters and went right to the "Author's Note"a the end of the book. What was so fascinating to me her exploration of New Testament scholarshp. She read several brilliant writers who examined the life of Jesus. So many of them tried debunking the truth that He was the Son of God. As she read and analyzed liberal thinkers she increasingly realized the fallacy of their assumptions. What shocked her most was noting how these liberal New Testament scholars were so hostile towards Jesus Christ!

In those few minutes at Wal-Mart God touched my heart and mind once more with the truth of Jesus Christ -- and the absolute reliability of His word. I loved reading Anne's journey of researching Jesus Christ and coming to belive in the validity of His claims -- that He truly is the Son of God, crucified on that cross nad raised from the dead. Overlooking her return to faith in Jesus Christ shored up my trust in our Savior and in the reliability of God's word.

Isn't it interesting how the gospel can be grasped and embraced by a child-like mind, such as my friend, Wanda, from my church, who is mentally challenged and yet loves God so much and is a deeply prayerful woman? And yet the Lord also reaches brilliant minds like C.S. Lewis and Anne Rice -- that is, if they have "ears to hear". He really is an awesome God. Jesus is real. He is the Christ. He is supreme. And He really does love you and me. I know it in my heart...and in my mind. The Bible tells me so.

Jim

Backing into the Future

Attending funerals always prompt me to look back on my life and reflect on what's significant. What really matters. And, for the Christian, God's tremendous faithfulness in our lives. These moments cause me (and I'm sure you, also) to not just look forward to our home in heaven but to dwell on how the Lord has worked through me in the past.

I attended another funeral this morning -- for an 89 year old woman named Buna Rickner who was a retired school teacher. Her husband was killed in World War II. They had only one son, who preceded her in death five years ago. And yet she left a tremendous legacy as a elementary school teacher and mentor of young teachers. The woman who gave Buna's eulogy today was one of these grateful teachers that was mentored by this champion. Buna Rickner's life taught us all so much as we heard her story.

A dear friend of mine who had been a missionary in Africa once told me of an experience that has shaped me so much in prompting me to look back...and not just look forward. He told how the Africans taught him how to "back into the future." He said that we Westerners tend to always be looking ahead. But because we don't know the future, it's as if we're standing in front of a blank wall -- unaware of the next moment of our lives.

The Africans, in contrast, used this imagery of walking backwards. Always looking at past events -- learning from what occured in their lives -- as they backed into the future. I love this approach to life and need to practice it daily.

Yesterday I read this prayer of Jacob, as he looked back on God's faithfulness:

"I am not worthy of all the faithfulness and unfailing love you have shown to me, your servant. When I left home, I owned nothing except a walking stick, and now my household fills two camps!" -- Gen 32:10, New LivingTranslation

What blipped in my mind was a scene in my life of more than 26 years ago. I had left my home state of California and was moving to Dallas with all my possesions in the back of my Volvo stationwagon. It was a whole new world for me. The shining office buildings of Dallas were such a stark contrast to the beaches of California that I lived next to all my life. And yet I felt this strong leading to leave my "home country" and explore new territory.

And as I sat in my favorite chair in Abilene, Texas, where I commune with the Lord each morning and reflected on my move to Dallas, I praised God for His faithfulness in my life. He led me to meet a wonderful Christian woman who grew up in Dallas, went to Abilene Christian University, had not married and was now working on her Master's in Social Work. We've been very happily married for 24 plus years. He's blessed us with two precious children who are now students at Susan's alma mater.

O, we've had struggles and setbacks and disappointments. But as I "back into the future" and see all that the Lord has done in our lives, and used us in His kingdom in the various places we've lived and ministered -- Memphis, St. Louis, Connecticut, Texas, Mexico and Brazil (mission trips) -- I can't help but join Jacob in his prayer to the Lord" I am not worthy of all the faithfulness and unfailing love you have shown to me, your servant."

Have you looked back on your life lately? Even if you reflect on last year...or last week, surely you'll see the kindness of the Lord and His faithfulness to you -- perhaps especially as He carried you through those dark nights of the soul.

Rather than worry about the future, I want to spend more time looking back and be continually filled with thanksgiving and praise to the Lord...and greater trust in His care for my future.

Under His mercy,

Jim

Getting out of debt...staying out of debt

As I began to close down my computer last night, I briefly glanced at an e-mail from a friend at church. He gave a brief testimony how the Lord helped him and his wife pay off $37,000 of debt in one year! I was happy for them...and a bit jealous. My wife, Susan, and I have had some occasional victories of paying off debt and building up savings. But those occasions are often too fleeting. How quickly we go back into debt and backslide in our determination to stay within our means. We're re-modelling our den and want so badly a couch that we saw at a store this week. But we don't have the funds to pay for it in cash. Do we borrow a little and try to pay it off in a few months? Or do we wait? My friend's testimony makes me think we need to wait. Perhaps that's the Lord speaking to us through him.

Don't you find this debt-conquering and debt- resisting to be a constant battle? So do I. One thing that helps me resist the "conspicous consumption" of our cuture is reading biblically-based and practical books on viewing money from God's perspective. After all, He truly owns it all. Anything we have in the bank or in retirement or in assets all belongs to Him. It's merely on loan to us, and for us to manage well.

One such book is Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace. His website and radio show are great (see daveramsey.com). And I love the tapes based on this book. He is fun, inspiring, encouraging and yet in-your-face (in a loving sort of way) about how to go against the tide of our debt-addicted world. I love the "Baby steps" that he gives as practical ways to dig out of the hole of debt and find that financial peace (build up a minimum of $500 in savings, never get a mortgage for more than 15 years, work on the debt payoff snowball).

The other book that packs a punch in the money department is Randy Alcorn's short but powerful The Treasure Principle. His testimony is convicting -- having his wages as a pastor garnished because he had the guts to protest an abortion clinic. He offers outstanding insights from God's word and his experience about how to be freed up from debt in order to give away money for the glory of God.

Okay. It's the first of the year. Time for new year resolutions. I'm committed once more to get out of debt. I probably won't match my friend's achievement -- but by the power of the Holy Spirit can take more baby steps in getting out of debt, and staying out of debt, His way.

I'd love to hear how you resist the impulse to buy more, charge more and want more. Let's encourage each other towards financial peace.

Jim

A Severe Mercy

I'm thinking back to a few weeks ago when my wife and I hosted our volunteers' Christmas party in our home. We were in different groups throughout the house, eating and playing a game where we took turns telling something about ourselves. My sister-in-law had told me about a cool interaction exercise that she got from Real Simple magazine. We put several questions in a basket -- each question revealing something about ourselves: family background, a fond memory, a favorite movie. When it came my turn, I pulled out the slip saying, "What is your favorite book?" That was an easy one.

I glanced over at the bookcase in our living room, walked over to it and picked up the book I have loved for years. Then I proceeded to share with the group a brief book review of my all time favorite: A Severe Mercy. After that day I decided to read it again --for the third time! There's only one other book that I've read three times: C.S. Lewis' masterpiece, The Great Divorce.

A Severe Mercy is the most unusual love story of Sheldon and Davy Van Auken, who met and fell in love in Virginia in the 40's. They both had a deep passion for the beauty of life -- poetry, great literature, nature. After they married they bought a boat a sailed in various places along the Eastern Seabord. Van Auken's exquisite writing captured so vividly the wonder of his and Davy's early years together. They eventually moved to Oxford, England where he pursued graduate studies in English literature. And this is where the real adventure began. For it was in Oxford that they encountered a beauty and love that was a reflection of all that Sheldon and Davy had pursued for years -- the living Christ.

God put in their path some new friends who were bright intellectuals like themselves, but with one distinct difference - they were deeply commited Christians. Encountering the joy in the hearts of their new friends both baffled and intrigued the Van Aukens. Then they came under the influence of C.S. Lewis -- at first through his brilliant writings, and then through correspondence and eventually meeting him.

I won't give it all away. But I will say that this is one of them most beautifully written books of love, conversion and how all the things we love on this earth (romance, reading great books, attending well-crafted films, enjoying close friends, the bonds of family) are but reflections of a greater love, a deeper love which our hearts long for. A love that only the Lord Jesus can fill. And that will only be fully realized when we get to be with Him face to face.

I hope you take the time to read this book some time -- and come to see what the title is all about. When I think of why I'm re-reading this book, and why I was so drawn to read The Great Divorce three times, I realize that what draws me to this literature is that they both describe so well our longing for heaven. To be with Christ in Person! To have all those tears wiped away...no more sickness, death or goodbyes. What a great destination to look forward to!

"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." --2 Cor 4:18

I'd love to hear of any books you've read lately that describe heaven and our longing for dwelling there...forever.

Your friend on the journey home,

Jim

Contentment

At our small group last Sunday night, our spiritual leader asked us to go around the room and tell us what word God had given them for 2006. She told us how these past two years she's asked the Lord to give her a word for the year as a theme for seeing Him work in her life. She told a brief story of how one year God gave her the word "change." As the year unfolded, she realized all the significant changes that occurred in her life throughout the year. The next year when she asked for another word, she "heard" the word "child." At first it seemed odd, until months later when her daughters started having babies. And then later in the year she got this deep sense of security that she was God's beloved child.

When it came my turn to give a word for the year, it was easy. The word "contentment" was on my heart the last few weeks. Specifically, contentment in Christ. This theme was borne from some weeks of struggling with how discontented Ican be at times. And confessing this sin to God and others. This word also surfaced after I came across a timely book called Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow (it's written for women but it has helped me tremendously -- please don't tell my Wild at Heart brothers about this!).

I've wasted far too many hours wishing I had another career, lived in another place, dwelling on regrets...rather than seeing how good the Lord has been to me and my family. And trusting Him that He has put me in this city and this job and this place in life.

One paragraph in Dillow's book really helped me. She tells of the apostle Paul's extremely difficult life -- being beaten and imprisoned and rejected because of his bold proclamation of Christ. And yet he says that he has learned the secret of contentment: "I can do everything through him who gives me strength (Phil. 4:13). Dillow remarks: "Paul recognized that the source and strength of all Christian contentment is God himself. "

That's it -- contentment is not found in my circumstances but rather through the joy and satisfaction that comes through Jesus Christ.

And so that's my word for 2006 -- contentment. And specifically, contentment in Christ.

How 'bout it? Are you ready to ask God to give you a word for the year? Pray about it. And when He gives you that word, I'd love to hear about it.

Your friend,

Jim