Hello friends and family,
You know, coming back to a blog is almost as hard as starting to work out again after having not done so for a long time. I use that illustration because I worked out earlier this morning. Really though, I remember saying on Facebook that I would update this blog during the first week of school, and here we are in the fourth week, and I am FINALLY getting around to it. I also have letters to write to friends back home, gosh I am just behind like crazy.
The start of classes brings new stresses, new opportunities, and more chances to forget that I am supposed to do things for different classes. Last year, I learned that I can do well in school as long as I stay ahead, go into every class with an attitude that I am trying to learn, and ask questions at any point that I am not sure of things. This year, things change slightly, because my classes this semester provide me with a different sort of problems. This year, I have my capstone class, Historiography, which requires extensive amounts of time per week, and the homework is never really finished until the final paper (appx 30 pages +/-) is turned in come April. I notice that it is difficult to figure out how much time to spend on that class and when to spend it. Along with this, I have reading-intensive classes that require lots of time as well. I have worksheets to do every week, so there is no shortcutting or skimming that I can do with that. I have Spanish, which is mostly difficult because my brain keeps trying to spit out Turkish that I learned over the last six months. I also have a practicum class, which requires me to get involved somewhere, get a mentor, and write journals for the entirety of the school year. I have not started that yet, and the clock is ticking. Needless to say, the first four weeks have gone by very, very quickly, and it is safe to assume the rest of the semester and year will as well. On top of the schooling, I am also a Teacher Assistant (and am teaching his class this Friday while he is away at a conference) and the President of our History honors society, so I have had additional work on my plate. This semester will be a good test run to see how I handle this sort of load. Before, I always ended up prioritizing one thing while letting everything else go by the wayside. Hopefully, I can maintain a better balance this time around. Pray that I will be able to handle the workload, that I will be diligent and responsible with my time, and that I will be effective in each of these areas.
The world of sports has been fun the last few months for me. The Oakland A's are about to make the playoffs, though it isn't in the fashion I would have hoped. I won't go into complaints or details, but I will say that when they lose, I often have to remind myself that it is only baseball, and it isn't life. But sometimes it can be quite exciting. Now, college football, that is something I am quite passionate about. My Nebraska Cornhuskers are 4-0 right now, and I am very happy about that. I was able to attend a game in Fresno, since Nebraska happened to be playing a game on the west coast this season. It was awesome! My whole family got to go as well, but unfortunately, Kendra was not able to make the trip because she had soccer. I had hoped to be able to take her, I think she would have loved it. Hopefully, there will be a chance in the future. As for the rest of the season, I am hoping the Huskers do well.
Speaking of sports, I have been back and forth on this news first about Ray Rice, and second about Adrian Peterson. They are public figures because they are part of a multi-billion dollar business, and so everything about them is scrutinized anyway. Now, we have these reports that have surfaced about domestic abuse happening with these men, and everyone is losing their minds over it. Some are calling for them to never play again, some are calling for the NFL commissioner to resign, and some are saying the NFL needs to revamp its rules. I'm just going to throw some thoughts out here. First of all, I do not condone domestic abuse. I think that people who commit these atrocities have a special place in hell reserved for them. Having said that, I think people are a little misconstrued here. Does anyone out there believe that those two are the first men in the world to abuse someone? No? Okay, I didn't think so. Yet, all of America is treating this like they were. How many people out there do you think abuse their spouse/kids? How many of them do you think have jobs? Let's remember, the NFL is a business, the Baltimore Ravens and Minnesota Vikings are employers, and Ray Rice and Adrian Peterson are employees of their respective franchises. I do not have a problem with the NFL taking action against them, but consider this: at what point do we allow businesses to control our employment based on our conduct outside of the workplace? Again, I believe what they did was wrong. But what if a business doesn't like the fact that I go to church, or that I spend certain days of the week going to Bible studies, or that I went to a Christian college? Obviously, the examples given are vastly different, but the point remains the same. Now the NFL is looking into personal conduct policies, which is well within their right as a business, but at what point does it stop? Where does the slippery slope end? Rather than worrying about what the NFL will do, we need to pray for the hearts of these men so that they may be changed on account of love. And that's my rant for the day.
One of the other things I am doing at school is being a prayer leader. Now, that's kind of a weird title, but the point is that I am somebody who is appointed to be available to pray with people, perhaps if someone needs prayer but doesn't quite know who to go to. I am in a position where I take on the privilege and responsibility of going before God on behalf of my fellow students from my residence hall. I am planning on doing a bi-weekly study, as well as making it a habit to get people together on nights of the week to pray with each other. I am looking forward to seeing the fruit of that. Already, there have been some really cool encounters that I and others have had. Please pray that God really controls it and uses it for His glory.
Wow, how the time passes. I hope to update you again soon. Please pray that I am listening for God's call and that I am walking in step with Him on different paths that are in front of me.
I love you all.
-J
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Better late than never
Hello my friends,
I am sorry that I did not post at the beginning of this month, and that I am late on the mid-month post as well. It is amazing how the things in our lives can become easily forgettable, or even de-prioritized. I think I just made up a new word. Anyways, I sincerely apologize, for I know that many of you read these and I realize that it is my duty and my joy to report to those that have sent me out.
For all of us have to carry on the work that Christ has for us. In some cases, that means staying where we are at, faithfully serving within the body we call home. To others, that means walking in obedience to the places which God has allowed us. In all cases, there is no more noble task than another. No missionary can say that they have contributed more than the usher at home, if each is giving his or her all in the name of Christ and in His power. No part of the body is more important than the others, as Paul said. Just because a toe is the furthest point away from the heart does not mean that it is less important, and just because the hand does the work does not make the arm that stretched it out less important.
This is why I feel it necessary to report back to you. For even though my task at hand seems common, worldly, and self-serving, it is still only made possible through God. By His guidance I am working toward an education to be a teacher so that I may share Christ's love with students. By His power I have strength in my mind and in my body to complete the work that is in front of me. By His provision I have been given the opportunity, the community of support, and the means to make this endeavor possible. By His love and grace, I have been saved and have been given the opportunity to do all of this. Further, we all have been charged by God with the same commands: Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself, and go and make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey all that Jesus commanded. As I pursue this educational endeavor, I am still obligated to abide by these commands. Finally, the Church body has sent me out and have invested in me, supporting me prayerfully and financially. Therefore, to the church family that has sent me out on this journey I owe my account.
As I write this, I lie on my bed having just finished my classes for the day and also having done my daily Bible study. I remembered that I had not written in a long time, so I felt it best that I do so, so that I may use my time wisely. The last month has been a steady stream of school work, working out, miscellaneous activity, and challenges. Also, I have contemplated many things that have bothered me, which I will save to write about until the very end. Don't worry, I will note when I change toward these subjects, as they will be lengthy in detail. This way, any who do not wish to read into those things can simply click off and move on.
To begin, school is going well. I have maintained a good pace on my work, and I have continued to stay a few days ahead of my schedule, allowing me to have extended periods of time where I do not have to worry about doing homework. It has been nice to have some relaxing time. These times have allowed me to connect better with my roommates and given me time to be able to work out and practice piano. Oh yes, I don't think I have mentioned this, this semester I discovered (via friends) that the Music Dept piano rooms are open daily (unless somebody has them reserved). Knowing this, I try at least a few times per week to tickle the ivory and ebony. Some friends have discovered that I played piano, so I am going to be using that skill in at least one event this semester, perhaps more. On the subject of working out, I usually do it three times per week (lifting) and recently began running once per week with some members from my missions team. Working out, to me, is now more about taking care of my body than it is about being stronger or looking good. I have missed Saturday workouts two weeks in a row (accidentally) and I did not run today or last week. Luckily, I am motivated to be a steward of the body I reside in, so getting back on the horse won't be too difficult.
Speaking of missions, my team has met four times since the last time I updated. It has been a wonderful experience for me. My team is really awesome, I cannot say enough how pleased I am to know each of them and how awesome God is for creating each of them with their skills and talents. We have seen our share of God working in some really cool ways financially. One girl went from 6% funding to over 50% funding in a matter of days! During one of our meetings, our stateside contact came and met with us, teaching us about the ministry where we are going and giving us helpful tips and inside information. In another meeting, I gave my testimony (only the second or third time doing so in full), and we have been hearing different testimonies every week. It is awesome to see the different ways in which God has called each of us into His presence. Some roads have been bumpy, some have been more smooth, but the important thing is that each of us now shares in the grace that God has freely given to all.
As part of our missions training, we are participating in what is called "The Challenge." In this challenge, we are spending 21 days fasting from different things, such as shoes, running water, and cell phones. Honestly, while I understood the idea of the challenge, I was not much in favor or excited about doing it. Much of the direction and instruction is vague, and different people have communicated different things about it. Some said it can be what you make it, others say to do what our booklet says. Still more say to go to the extreme, while others say it is simply an idea that you can participate if you want but you do not have to. I had my own disagreements with it, including the manner in which we fasted and in the mentality behind it. However, after speaking to my dad of my concerns, he encouraged me to have an open mind and an open heart, to participate in what the challenge said to do, and to journal through the process. We are nearing the end of this challenge, with our 30 hour fast from all food this weekend, starting tomorrow. After this, in my next post, I will share some of my thoughts and experiences. For now, I continue to see where God leads my heart in this.
My car has been running funny, and a little over a week ago I began trying to diagnose and repair the problem. It is still in progress, and has been quite frustrating at times, but I know it will get worked out eventually. Part of the issue is money; I just can't make some of the repairs until I get some funds in. Luckily, I have a tax return that will be making its way to me in the coming weeks, so I will probably finish it then. In addition to this headache, doing my aforementioned taxes was a painstaking process, mostly because my w-2s were not going to be sent to where I am now, but were instead sent to places I used to live. I had to wait a bit for some to get mailed to me (thank you Mathew's family) and another I had to wait for because of mis-communications and incompetence. Yes, I really said that. Anyways, the tax return is going to be very helpful in paying for school, so having to delay it for so long was a little irritating. Most of my return will go toward my school payments, and after those are applied, I will almost have my semester paid off. Please pray that I get my car running soon and that God will continue to provide as He has for the financial matters.
Last weekend, I was able to see Calvary's Dinner Theater. I was so happy to see them do such a great job. It was bittersweet: bitter because I was not there through the process and able to be part of their lives, but sweet because of the joy it brought to my heart to see how so many have grown. It was an honor to contribute the very small amount that I did. I want to shout out to all of the students and staff: You did an amazing job and I am so proud of all of you! Now that you have done these things, continue to serve each other and love each other and work hard so that God's love may be on display in you at all times!
I have drawn near to the end of one of my recent goals: to read the Bible cover to cover. I just finished through Jude today, and in the coming days I will read Revelation, completing the goal I set before myself in September. It has been a great experience, and being able to read the whole scope of biblical events has been awesome. Once I am done, I will begin to go through scripture in ways different than I ever have. I want to use Bible commentaries, dictionaries, multiple translations, and I will go thought by thought, journaling through each section. By this I am hoping that I may grow to an even deeper understanding of who God is and what He is saying. Please pray that as I do this that I will put into practice everything I learn, that I will not be just someone to listens to the Word, but that I will do what it says.
I have been thinking about what kinds of things I can do around Simpson to use my gifts and to help lead and teach others. Some might say that in order to be a leader you have to have a position, or that you have to move upwards, or that you have to be a certain kind of person or have a certain calling. But I believe that God calls all of us to lead in different ways. All of us are to use what God has given us to lead others to Him and to a closer relationship with Jesus. One of my ideas I am coming to call "Secret Church." Yes, I am aware that things like this have been done before, but my goal is to have it be an unscheduled, unsanctioned, raw, real time of prayer, worship, and devotion. I am still thinking through details. Pray that whatever God leads me to will be fruitful and will be all for His glory, and that the body may be edified and encouraged and strengthened.
So now ends the main things I wanted to say. What follows will be some thoughts I have gathered over the last few weeks/months that I am now putting into words. If some of you should sign off now, I want to say thank you for reading and for praying with me and supporting me. For those who are sticking around, buckle up. You have been warned.
_________________________
Is anybody tired of cliche verses? Is anybody tired of people taking scripture out of context so that they can feel better about themselves or about what they have been doing? Is anyone tired of people using verses to justify their inaction or reaction?
I am.
Take Jeremiah 29:11 for example.
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." (NIV)
I understand. I get it. God has plans for us. God is our hope. It is true that these words teach us something. People parade this verse around all the time, including very close friends of mine. They are good, comforting words. But guess what? We're in America! Have we been exiled? Have we been marginalized, stripped naked, and starved? Let us remember that Jeremiah was a prophet speaking to the people of Judah, who were going to fall to the Babylonians, have their city and temple burned to the ground, and be scattered and led away to other places. Why? Because they disobeyed God! God gave them plenty of chances to repent and they didn't. So here was God, allowing them into probably the worst possible thing outside of death that could happen to them. I cannot imagine being an Israelite in this time. But God had it in His plan of redemption to secure a remnant of people to bring back to the land, because in His time he would bring about the redemption of God's people (we now know this to mean Jesus). His words through Jeremiah are that even though He is allowing them to go through this terrible time, He would not forget them and that it was for their good, so that He may reshape their hearts and winnow out the wickedness of Israel. So, now tell me, do you think anyone who parades that verse today intends on going into exile, stripped down and hungry? None of us are even close to anything of that sort. Instead, we use the verse to tell ourselves that obviously God has great plans for us to prosper and give us a future, and so we get this expectation that we will achieve prosperity, though I would argue most of us think of prosperity in worldly terms. We think it means we will get that job and get that income and that house, car, and comfort. But this is not what God was saying to Israel. He was using the exile for their good. I would suppose that the irritation I have here applies for those who use this verse as their hope for achieving worldly success. Perhaps if people would realize what was happening here and got some perspective, then this verse could be even greater for them, not as a way of assuring themselves of prosperity, but as a way of knowing that through the darkness of trials and tribulations that God still uses those things for their good. I think a better verse to use in this case is Romans 8:28. The context is more suitable and the meaning is far more accurate to the point.
Guess what, here comes another verse! Philippians 4:13:
"I can do all this through him who gives me strength." (NIV)
Some translations say "all things" instead of "all this." Even so, this again is out of context. We know that our strength comes ultimately from God, and that God does not fail. But using this verse as an anthem to believe that you can do everything you want to do is inaccurate. So, you're saying that if I am on a wrestling team and there is a guy who is a better wrestler and more in shape than I am, that as long as I believe Christ gives me strength (and maybe if I say this verse before I go up), that I will win? Or that if I believe Christ gives me strength then it means I can go into a test and get a good grade even if I didn't study or do my homework or work very hard? Sure, these are extreme examples, but the point remains the same. Even if you would rather use the words "All things," all things don't always fall into God's plan or will. Remember what Paul is talking about in all of Philippians (about being in chains, having humility, considering everything garbage in comparison to Christ, to summarize the first three chapters) and then especially in chapter 4. He talks about rejoicing in God and about our thoughts being focused on Christ. Then comes talking about learning to be content in all circumstances. Whether well fed or hungry, whether having plenty or being in want, Paul has learned to be content because of the strength of Christ. Paul wasn't saying that he could do any act in the world because of the strength of Christ, though that surely is possible with God, but instead was saying that even if he had nothing he would be okay and that it was abiding in Christ that made it possible. If people want to talk about God's strength overcoming their weakness, a better verse to use would be 2 Corinthians 12:9. In that verse, Paul talks about his weakness and God's grace.
In both cases, I just have a hard time when people use these verses out of context in communicating them to others, or even themselves. I take it seriously because I want people to be careful to not distort the word of God just to make it more friendly and so set people on a path to destruction or frustration. Do not put stumbling blocks in front of people. What I have endeavored here was to try to help some understand the context of the verses. By this understanding, I think the verses become that much more powerful. The point is part of a greater goal of reminding people that there is more to God's word than these "memory verses." God's word is to be taken as a whole, or not at all. But the best part is knowing the whole makes it so much better. I hope that I have communicated clearly what is in my heart, and I am not ashamed or afraid to defend that which I believe. There is much more that I could have said to clarify and elaborate, but it would take pages and pages which nobody wants to read here.
thanks again for reading. Please pray that I will keep my heart open to God and that He may speak to all of us of His truth and His love. Keep me in your prayers, that I may honor God in word and deed and that I may have the grace to pursue Christ-likeness in this season of my life. Thank you all.
With love,
-J
I am sorry that I did not post at the beginning of this month, and that I am late on the mid-month post as well. It is amazing how the things in our lives can become easily forgettable, or even de-prioritized. I think I just made up a new word. Anyways, I sincerely apologize, for I know that many of you read these and I realize that it is my duty and my joy to report to those that have sent me out.
For all of us have to carry on the work that Christ has for us. In some cases, that means staying where we are at, faithfully serving within the body we call home. To others, that means walking in obedience to the places which God has allowed us. In all cases, there is no more noble task than another. No missionary can say that they have contributed more than the usher at home, if each is giving his or her all in the name of Christ and in His power. No part of the body is more important than the others, as Paul said. Just because a toe is the furthest point away from the heart does not mean that it is less important, and just because the hand does the work does not make the arm that stretched it out less important.
This is why I feel it necessary to report back to you. For even though my task at hand seems common, worldly, and self-serving, it is still only made possible through God. By His guidance I am working toward an education to be a teacher so that I may share Christ's love with students. By His power I have strength in my mind and in my body to complete the work that is in front of me. By His provision I have been given the opportunity, the community of support, and the means to make this endeavor possible. By His love and grace, I have been saved and have been given the opportunity to do all of this. Further, we all have been charged by God with the same commands: Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself, and go and make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey all that Jesus commanded. As I pursue this educational endeavor, I am still obligated to abide by these commands. Finally, the Church body has sent me out and have invested in me, supporting me prayerfully and financially. Therefore, to the church family that has sent me out on this journey I owe my account.
As I write this, I lie on my bed having just finished my classes for the day and also having done my daily Bible study. I remembered that I had not written in a long time, so I felt it best that I do so, so that I may use my time wisely. The last month has been a steady stream of school work, working out, miscellaneous activity, and challenges. Also, I have contemplated many things that have bothered me, which I will save to write about until the very end. Don't worry, I will note when I change toward these subjects, as they will be lengthy in detail. This way, any who do not wish to read into those things can simply click off and move on.
To begin, school is going well. I have maintained a good pace on my work, and I have continued to stay a few days ahead of my schedule, allowing me to have extended periods of time where I do not have to worry about doing homework. It has been nice to have some relaxing time. These times have allowed me to connect better with my roommates and given me time to be able to work out and practice piano. Oh yes, I don't think I have mentioned this, this semester I discovered (via friends) that the Music Dept piano rooms are open daily (unless somebody has them reserved). Knowing this, I try at least a few times per week to tickle the ivory and ebony. Some friends have discovered that I played piano, so I am going to be using that skill in at least one event this semester, perhaps more. On the subject of working out, I usually do it three times per week (lifting) and recently began running once per week with some members from my missions team. Working out, to me, is now more about taking care of my body than it is about being stronger or looking good. I have missed Saturday workouts two weeks in a row (accidentally) and I did not run today or last week. Luckily, I am motivated to be a steward of the body I reside in, so getting back on the horse won't be too difficult.
Speaking of missions, my team has met four times since the last time I updated. It has been a wonderful experience for me. My team is really awesome, I cannot say enough how pleased I am to know each of them and how awesome God is for creating each of them with their skills and talents. We have seen our share of God working in some really cool ways financially. One girl went from 6% funding to over 50% funding in a matter of days! During one of our meetings, our stateside contact came and met with us, teaching us about the ministry where we are going and giving us helpful tips and inside information. In another meeting, I gave my testimony (only the second or third time doing so in full), and we have been hearing different testimonies every week. It is awesome to see the different ways in which God has called each of us into His presence. Some roads have been bumpy, some have been more smooth, but the important thing is that each of us now shares in the grace that God has freely given to all.
As part of our missions training, we are participating in what is called "The Challenge." In this challenge, we are spending 21 days fasting from different things, such as shoes, running water, and cell phones. Honestly, while I understood the idea of the challenge, I was not much in favor or excited about doing it. Much of the direction and instruction is vague, and different people have communicated different things about it. Some said it can be what you make it, others say to do what our booklet says. Still more say to go to the extreme, while others say it is simply an idea that you can participate if you want but you do not have to. I had my own disagreements with it, including the manner in which we fasted and in the mentality behind it. However, after speaking to my dad of my concerns, he encouraged me to have an open mind and an open heart, to participate in what the challenge said to do, and to journal through the process. We are nearing the end of this challenge, with our 30 hour fast from all food this weekend, starting tomorrow. After this, in my next post, I will share some of my thoughts and experiences. For now, I continue to see where God leads my heart in this.
My car has been running funny, and a little over a week ago I began trying to diagnose and repair the problem. It is still in progress, and has been quite frustrating at times, but I know it will get worked out eventually. Part of the issue is money; I just can't make some of the repairs until I get some funds in. Luckily, I have a tax return that will be making its way to me in the coming weeks, so I will probably finish it then. In addition to this headache, doing my aforementioned taxes was a painstaking process, mostly because my w-2s were not going to be sent to where I am now, but were instead sent to places I used to live. I had to wait a bit for some to get mailed to me (thank you Mathew's family) and another I had to wait for because of mis-communications and incompetence. Yes, I really said that. Anyways, the tax return is going to be very helpful in paying for school, so having to delay it for so long was a little irritating. Most of my return will go toward my school payments, and after those are applied, I will almost have my semester paid off. Please pray that I get my car running soon and that God will continue to provide as He has for the financial matters.
Last weekend, I was able to see Calvary's Dinner Theater. I was so happy to see them do such a great job. It was bittersweet: bitter because I was not there through the process and able to be part of their lives, but sweet because of the joy it brought to my heart to see how so many have grown. It was an honor to contribute the very small amount that I did. I want to shout out to all of the students and staff: You did an amazing job and I am so proud of all of you! Now that you have done these things, continue to serve each other and love each other and work hard so that God's love may be on display in you at all times!
I have drawn near to the end of one of my recent goals: to read the Bible cover to cover. I just finished through Jude today, and in the coming days I will read Revelation, completing the goal I set before myself in September. It has been a great experience, and being able to read the whole scope of biblical events has been awesome. Once I am done, I will begin to go through scripture in ways different than I ever have. I want to use Bible commentaries, dictionaries, multiple translations, and I will go thought by thought, journaling through each section. By this I am hoping that I may grow to an even deeper understanding of who God is and what He is saying. Please pray that as I do this that I will put into practice everything I learn, that I will not be just someone to listens to the Word, but that I will do what it says.
I have been thinking about what kinds of things I can do around Simpson to use my gifts and to help lead and teach others. Some might say that in order to be a leader you have to have a position, or that you have to move upwards, or that you have to be a certain kind of person or have a certain calling. But I believe that God calls all of us to lead in different ways. All of us are to use what God has given us to lead others to Him and to a closer relationship with Jesus. One of my ideas I am coming to call "Secret Church." Yes, I am aware that things like this have been done before, but my goal is to have it be an unscheduled, unsanctioned, raw, real time of prayer, worship, and devotion. I am still thinking through details. Pray that whatever God leads me to will be fruitful and will be all for His glory, and that the body may be edified and encouraged and strengthened.
So now ends the main things I wanted to say. What follows will be some thoughts I have gathered over the last few weeks/months that I am now putting into words. If some of you should sign off now, I want to say thank you for reading and for praying with me and supporting me. For those who are sticking around, buckle up. You have been warned.
_________________________
Is anybody tired of cliche verses? Is anybody tired of people taking scripture out of context so that they can feel better about themselves or about what they have been doing? Is anyone tired of people using verses to justify their inaction or reaction?
I am.
Take Jeremiah 29:11 for example.
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." (NIV)
I understand. I get it. God has plans for us. God is our hope. It is true that these words teach us something. People parade this verse around all the time, including very close friends of mine. They are good, comforting words. But guess what? We're in America! Have we been exiled? Have we been marginalized, stripped naked, and starved? Let us remember that Jeremiah was a prophet speaking to the people of Judah, who were going to fall to the Babylonians, have their city and temple burned to the ground, and be scattered and led away to other places. Why? Because they disobeyed God! God gave them plenty of chances to repent and they didn't. So here was God, allowing them into probably the worst possible thing outside of death that could happen to them. I cannot imagine being an Israelite in this time. But God had it in His plan of redemption to secure a remnant of people to bring back to the land, because in His time he would bring about the redemption of God's people (we now know this to mean Jesus). His words through Jeremiah are that even though He is allowing them to go through this terrible time, He would not forget them and that it was for their good, so that He may reshape their hearts and winnow out the wickedness of Israel. So, now tell me, do you think anyone who parades that verse today intends on going into exile, stripped down and hungry? None of us are even close to anything of that sort. Instead, we use the verse to tell ourselves that obviously God has great plans for us to prosper and give us a future, and so we get this expectation that we will achieve prosperity, though I would argue most of us think of prosperity in worldly terms. We think it means we will get that job and get that income and that house, car, and comfort. But this is not what God was saying to Israel. He was using the exile for their good. I would suppose that the irritation I have here applies for those who use this verse as their hope for achieving worldly success. Perhaps if people would realize what was happening here and got some perspective, then this verse could be even greater for them, not as a way of assuring themselves of prosperity, but as a way of knowing that through the darkness of trials and tribulations that God still uses those things for their good. I think a better verse to use in this case is Romans 8:28. The context is more suitable and the meaning is far more accurate to the point.
Guess what, here comes another verse! Philippians 4:13:
"I can do all this through him who gives me strength." (NIV)
Some translations say "all things" instead of "all this." Even so, this again is out of context. We know that our strength comes ultimately from God, and that God does not fail. But using this verse as an anthem to believe that you can do everything you want to do is inaccurate. So, you're saying that if I am on a wrestling team and there is a guy who is a better wrestler and more in shape than I am, that as long as I believe Christ gives me strength (and maybe if I say this verse before I go up), that I will win? Or that if I believe Christ gives me strength then it means I can go into a test and get a good grade even if I didn't study or do my homework or work very hard? Sure, these are extreme examples, but the point remains the same. Even if you would rather use the words "All things," all things don't always fall into God's plan or will. Remember what Paul is talking about in all of Philippians (about being in chains, having humility, considering everything garbage in comparison to Christ, to summarize the first three chapters) and then especially in chapter 4. He talks about rejoicing in God and about our thoughts being focused on Christ. Then comes talking about learning to be content in all circumstances. Whether well fed or hungry, whether having plenty or being in want, Paul has learned to be content because of the strength of Christ. Paul wasn't saying that he could do any act in the world because of the strength of Christ, though that surely is possible with God, but instead was saying that even if he had nothing he would be okay and that it was abiding in Christ that made it possible. If people want to talk about God's strength overcoming their weakness, a better verse to use would be 2 Corinthians 12:9. In that verse, Paul talks about his weakness and God's grace.
In both cases, I just have a hard time when people use these verses out of context in communicating them to others, or even themselves. I take it seriously because I want people to be careful to not distort the word of God just to make it more friendly and so set people on a path to destruction or frustration. Do not put stumbling blocks in front of people. What I have endeavored here was to try to help some understand the context of the verses. By this understanding, I think the verses become that much more powerful. The point is part of a greater goal of reminding people that there is more to God's word than these "memory verses." God's word is to be taken as a whole, or not at all. But the best part is knowing the whole makes it so much better. I hope that I have communicated clearly what is in my heart, and I am not ashamed or afraid to defend that which I believe. There is much more that I could have said to clarify and elaborate, but it would take pages and pages which nobody wants to read here.
thanks again for reading. Please pray that I will keep my heart open to God and that He may speak to all of us of His truth and His love. Keep me in your prayers, that I may honor God in word and deed and that I may have the grace to pursue Christ-likeness in this season of my life. Thank you all.
With love,
-J
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
The Whirlwind of Life
Hello everyone!
-J
Thank you for tuning in here, I appreciate the time you spend reading this, and I hope that when you read, you are challenged and encouraged.
What do you know, today I am actually updating my blog exactly on the day I usually want to do it! I apologize for not being on schedule much until now. Today I find myself with a rather large amount of time to kill; I don't have really any homework (none due tomorrow at least) and Kendra is pretty busy today. Since the last time I wrote, I came back to school and have been back at classes for a little over a week.
I enjoyed the last few days in Manteca. It felt just as hard to leave again, even though I had only been back a short time. Spending time with the Youth students, being involved in Calvary's service and worship team, hanging out with friends, etc., were all things that were very refreshing, but also reminded me of what I have not yet established up here in Redding. I know that nothing will be the same, and I do not believe I should try to make things exactly the same. But, it is still pretty hard to leave your home. But, I am encouraged and ready to tackle this semester. I know that being here is right, even as I feel the pain of separation from family and friends. I know that whether I am in Manteca leading worship or in Redding writing a paper that the love of God remains the same, and that whether I am surrounded by friends and loved ones or tucked away alone in my dorm room that God's presence remains the same. I am beginning to better understand what Paul really meant when he wrote in Philippians that he "learned to be content in all circumstances." The point was that Paul was focused completely on who God was and on the grace that He pours out, and that helped him to keep his mind on heavenly things, and to not focus on what he lacked, but on what God had abundantly given him, and he was able to do that through Christ, who gave him strength. I, and many people out there, often misunderstand and misuse that verse in scripture. We tend to use it as a way to tell ourselves that whatever we set our minds to can be done because God gives us strength. Really, though, Paul was emphasizing that even in times where he could do nothing, or when he had nothing, he was content, because God helped him to be content. Looking at the verse that way doesn't change how valuable it is; rather, it helps us to keep ourselves in perspective. God doesn't answer to us and the things we wish to do for Him, He invites us to enjoy in the grace and peace that He offers to us for the journey ahead.
This mindset has helped me a lot. My dad has talked with me a lot in the last few weeks, including the Christmas break, and I have benefited much from it. I greatly appreciate the time and wisdom my dad pours into me. He has helped me to better understand many of these things, and with it I have become more at peace with my situations financially, mentally, spiritually, and academically. I no longer am worried about how I will pay for school. I still need a lot of help, and I need a lot of things to work out, but I am not prideful and I am not worried. And I am not ashamed to admit that I am weak and cannot help myself. I am confident that God will work things for the good, and that His power is made perfect in weakness. I ask that you continue to pray with me in this, that I may continue to press on toward what God has, resting in His grace. The last few weeks have been quite transforming in this respect. I am excited to be where I am, and I am excited to see where God takes me in this. I definitely feel my heart being changed, softened, and molded.
As I began class, I had 16 units registered, and it figured to be a big semester of reading. So, for a change of pace, I filed paperwork and added a seventh class, giving myself 19 units. The class I added? Political History of Europe through Film. One day per week, three hours per day. All we do is watch movies and write reviews on it, followed by a research paper later in the semester. It actually works out well, as I will be able to dock off another class necessary for next year, meaning that for my senior year of college, I will only need 12 units per semester! This leaves me many possibilities. The first, and most desirable, is that I may try to get all my credentialing classes finished alongside my undergrad, then I will only have to worry about student-teaching when I get out of Simpson. That puts me at least a half a year closer to my long term goal of Graduating college and getting a Teaching Credential. I am very excited about this. Nothing is certain yet, but I know that God is in charge, and He will direct things to their proper course in accordance to His will. Please be in prayer with me about this!
I wrote on facebook the other day that I had made it through the Old testament portion of the Bible in order and that I am working on the New Testament. I am currently into Luke, so at this rate, I think I will finish the New Testament as early as the first week of February. That'll be pretty exciting. I have also separately been reading Philippians for my missions team and John for a weekly bible study with Kendra and her roommate, Marijke. So I am a busy bible reader! Oh yeah, and I have to read the Bible for my Bible classes. Haha.
Speaking of my missions team, I am sending out update letters, but I am currently having a struggle getting a hold of envelopes and stamps to send them out, so they are being delayed a bit, so I apologize. I am doing well in that, we have started weekly meetings this semester, and I am glad to be getting to know my teammates. We are sharing testimonies and working on fundraising opportunities. If you want to give and you haven't been able to, haven't had the chance, or didn't know about it, here's the link:
We still are a work in progress, but I think everyone is until the day of completion. Specifically, we are praying that God will provide for everyone to go, and that God will prepare not only our hearts but also the hearts of those we will come into contact with.
Brandon and Thomas drove up to visit, and it was great to have them! They actually spent more time traveling than they spent with me, so I felt bad about that, cause its a tough day trip to make. But I was thankful for the time they took out to spend with me. It really meant a lot. Now to get Brandon to attend Simpson like he was thinking about...
As the semester has just started, I have not really been doing much so there isn't as much to report on for now. Interestingly, in comparison to the last time I updated this blog, my mind is definitely more at rest. I 100% believe that it is because of God's presence in my life, and I have focused much more on the grace that He gives freely. Please pray that I maintain this course, and that this attitude carries over into my academics, missions, and every other area of life. Also pray that I am patient with those around me, and that I am always striving to help people find and glorify God. I love you all, I hope to see you and talk to you soon.
May God bless you and keep you, and may He make His face shine upon you, be gracious to you, and give you peace.
In Christ's love,
-J
Friday, January 3, 2014
Where we ought not go
Hello everyone, I thank you for reading this, and I apologize for being a bit late on this. I pray that this blog post finds you well and filled with joy and peace.
Tonight, I sit in the living room of a friend's house that I am house sitting at (sort of). I have had ample time to sit and reflect on the previous few weeks, and I have done my best to relax from the rigors of the previous semester. The Christmas break has seen a bit of adventure, a lot of awesome workings by God, tremendous opportunities, traditions, and a lot of friends. When I returned home for Winter break on December 12, my mind was filled with many questions, the likes of which still have not fully been answered. I wrote before of my struggle and of the way in which I challenged God and myself, and at how God was already beginning to respond to me. Throughout the break, I have learned to be content with what has been in front of me, and to take things one step at a time, and that there is a time for everything, for mourning, for joy, for anger and for laughter. God has been working in some really cool ways, and in other ways He has been ever silent. As I sit and reflect on these past weeks, I hold a sense of peace yet also I feel the anxiety of another semester creeping within.
I always knew this would be the toughest year of the two I would spend at Simpson. So much uncertainty about money, work, etc., and not a lot of wiggling room to spare. I thought that the first semester would be the tougher one, since I was unsure of which Justin would show up to school, in an academic sense. I was unsure of how I would adjust to living in a dorm away from where I wanted to be. Turns out, I didn't fare so badly. I stayed on top of my homework, and I only missed a few classes (due to a wedding, and one due to sickness). As a result, in my six classes, I got all A's and an A- for a semester GPA of 3.982. Haha, that darn A- grade. Anyways, the thing I feared most has ended up not being the worst thing I've dealt with. I am confident that I will carry on my grades to the next semester. So, instead of academics being a primary concern, it is actually how I will pay for it. The first semester was full of blessings as many people and circumstances came through by God to pay the semester. I knew that I would have to go payment by payment for this Spring 2014 semester. Under normal circumstances, Semester payments are due in full on the 15th of the month before the semester begins. I was unsure of this until recently. Long story short, I made a call telling the school I would not be able to make the first of four monthly installments on time on Dec. 15. Truth is, I still haven't made the payment, and now we are into January, with another installment just thirteen days away. With classes resuming on the 7th, there is no way I will get around this one. Somehow, nobody has called me, nobody has emailed me. Nobody representing the school has come after me for the money. This has to be some sort of act of God's favor, cause when money is involved, there is always someone eager to collect. Too bad I couldn't hold off til the end of the semester. If only I could get through this semester, I would be okay. I know it. I am confident that I will be able to make it next year. I have to. Getting there is the issue. Pray that God will provide.
And here's the flip side of this: I am trying to go on this missions trip still? As of late, many have contributed, and I am so grateful for that. God has used His people to provide for that, and so it is funny how I remain nervous about not having what I need. I suppose I wonder if I am doing the right thing because I am having such trouble paying for school, how could I just try to do something like this? My dad began using a phrase when talking to me, which he found in some book that goes something like this:
"Don't forget in the darkness what you have seen in the light."
It is a funny thing that people do, that I do. If you put a piece of paper down on a table and turn the light off, you can rest assured that when you turn that light back on, the paper will still be there. In the same way, when God speaks to you and shows you something, you can be darn sure that what He said and showed you is still true when He is silent. When you are presented with two paths and one is lighted and the other is dark, why would you venture into the darkness? Why would you go where you shouldn't? Yet, this is who we are... this is who I am. We are reckless, persistent, stubborn human beings. It is our God complex. One of the greatest things about this break has been that I have not had to think about any of the problems of the future. But, as I reflect, I realize that in my eagerness to not think about things, I have not actually grown or learned. I am ashamed to say that. But I seek God's grace and love in this, and I pray that I may know more the love which covers all things. Please pray that I will become more aware of God's love in my life.
I have been fighting sickness the last few weeks, but I think it is finally going away. It has been a rough go for myself and for many others as well. Nothing was worse than the week of finals, which I believe I described in my previous entry. Still, it was tough to get through all the gross feeling. Hopefully it will be a long time before I get sick again. Please pray for my health and for strength and endurance for the next few months.
I had the awesome opportunity to co-lead worship at Calvary this past Sunday, and I will do so again this Sunday. It is encouraging and such a privilege to do such a thing with my church family, and it is also encouraging to hear positive things and that God uses me. I am excited for this Sunday, and I hope that the praises to God will overflow from our congregation, this time by music. It is a privilege to be able to give myself, give what I have, to the body. One of the hardest things about being away was that with no money and no resources, I have not much to give, and so I have taken a lot of value in being able to give what I do have: time, knowledge, wisdom, music. Thanks be to God, for the grace to be able to do this.
Now, the holidays were excellent. I got to spend a week in Arizona with my parents before returning with them to Manteca, where we got to spend another five days together. We got to have a great Christmas celebration with friends and with each other. It is interesting, as the years go by, how much more I enjoy and cherish these holidays, as chaotic and disorderly as they may be. I get pretty stressed around Christmas time because I have an irrational resentment of gifts, materialism, and things of the like, but I was able to get past that. I painted a number of pictures for my family as gifts, I had a lot of fun doing it, so I guess that is what matters. For New Years, I got to spend it with the Youth at Calvary, as I have the previous years. I ran sound for the bands that we had play, and they did great! I was impressed by the high school band, they really did an excellent job for a bunch of young guys! I was super proud of them, I had each of them in my discipleship group at one point or another.
For once in a great while, I am short of words to say. Much else is on my mind, but I have not been able to organize my thoughts enough to be able to write them down. I hope you will forgive me for that. I wanted to take a minute and thank those who have given to my trip and chose to remain anonymous. I am unable to thank you personally if I don't know who you are. But that is okay, just know that I am grateful and that you are just as much a part of my trip as I am.
Please continue to pray for me as I continue with school and life. Anything and everything helps. Also, I know I have mentioned this before, but I would really love to get some hand written letters from people! Ha, I guess this looks like a desperate plea, and it may be. It is nice to know that people care. Don't be afraid to send me a letter! I'd love it, actually. I'll put my school address here since I don't know who does and doesn't have it:
Justin Thomason #714
2211 College View Dr.
Redding, CA 96003
I pray that God will bless you abundantly, and that you will respond with obedience to whatever He may call you to. I pray for the joy of His love to overflow from you and for grace to abound in your lives. Thank you for your support, your prayer, and your love.
I promise to write more next time.
-J
Tonight, I sit in the living room of a friend's house that I am house sitting at (sort of). I have had ample time to sit and reflect on the previous few weeks, and I have done my best to relax from the rigors of the previous semester. The Christmas break has seen a bit of adventure, a lot of awesome workings by God, tremendous opportunities, traditions, and a lot of friends. When I returned home for Winter break on December 12, my mind was filled with many questions, the likes of which still have not fully been answered. I wrote before of my struggle and of the way in which I challenged God and myself, and at how God was already beginning to respond to me. Throughout the break, I have learned to be content with what has been in front of me, and to take things one step at a time, and that there is a time for everything, for mourning, for joy, for anger and for laughter. God has been working in some really cool ways, and in other ways He has been ever silent. As I sit and reflect on these past weeks, I hold a sense of peace yet also I feel the anxiety of another semester creeping within.
I always knew this would be the toughest year of the two I would spend at Simpson. So much uncertainty about money, work, etc., and not a lot of wiggling room to spare. I thought that the first semester would be the tougher one, since I was unsure of which Justin would show up to school, in an academic sense. I was unsure of how I would adjust to living in a dorm away from where I wanted to be. Turns out, I didn't fare so badly. I stayed on top of my homework, and I only missed a few classes (due to a wedding, and one due to sickness). As a result, in my six classes, I got all A's and an A- for a semester GPA of 3.982. Haha, that darn A- grade. Anyways, the thing I feared most has ended up not being the worst thing I've dealt with. I am confident that I will carry on my grades to the next semester. So, instead of academics being a primary concern, it is actually how I will pay for it. The first semester was full of blessings as many people and circumstances came through by God to pay the semester. I knew that I would have to go payment by payment for this Spring 2014 semester. Under normal circumstances, Semester payments are due in full on the 15th of the month before the semester begins. I was unsure of this until recently. Long story short, I made a call telling the school I would not be able to make the first of four monthly installments on time on Dec. 15. Truth is, I still haven't made the payment, and now we are into January, with another installment just thirteen days away. With classes resuming on the 7th, there is no way I will get around this one. Somehow, nobody has called me, nobody has emailed me. Nobody representing the school has come after me for the money. This has to be some sort of act of God's favor, cause when money is involved, there is always someone eager to collect. Too bad I couldn't hold off til the end of the semester. If only I could get through this semester, I would be okay. I know it. I am confident that I will be able to make it next year. I have to. Getting there is the issue. Pray that God will provide.
And here's the flip side of this: I am trying to go on this missions trip still? As of late, many have contributed, and I am so grateful for that. God has used His people to provide for that, and so it is funny how I remain nervous about not having what I need. I suppose I wonder if I am doing the right thing because I am having such trouble paying for school, how could I just try to do something like this? My dad began using a phrase when talking to me, which he found in some book that goes something like this:
"Don't forget in the darkness what you have seen in the light."
It is a funny thing that people do, that I do. If you put a piece of paper down on a table and turn the light off, you can rest assured that when you turn that light back on, the paper will still be there. In the same way, when God speaks to you and shows you something, you can be darn sure that what He said and showed you is still true when He is silent. When you are presented with two paths and one is lighted and the other is dark, why would you venture into the darkness? Why would you go where you shouldn't? Yet, this is who we are... this is who I am. We are reckless, persistent, stubborn human beings. It is our God complex. One of the greatest things about this break has been that I have not had to think about any of the problems of the future. But, as I reflect, I realize that in my eagerness to not think about things, I have not actually grown or learned. I am ashamed to say that. But I seek God's grace and love in this, and I pray that I may know more the love which covers all things. Please pray that I will become more aware of God's love in my life.
I have been fighting sickness the last few weeks, but I think it is finally going away. It has been a rough go for myself and for many others as well. Nothing was worse than the week of finals, which I believe I described in my previous entry. Still, it was tough to get through all the gross feeling. Hopefully it will be a long time before I get sick again. Please pray for my health and for strength and endurance for the next few months.
I had the awesome opportunity to co-lead worship at Calvary this past Sunday, and I will do so again this Sunday. It is encouraging and such a privilege to do such a thing with my church family, and it is also encouraging to hear positive things and that God uses me. I am excited for this Sunday, and I hope that the praises to God will overflow from our congregation, this time by music. It is a privilege to be able to give myself, give what I have, to the body. One of the hardest things about being away was that with no money and no resources, I have not much to give, and so I have taken a lot of value in being able to give what I do have: time, knowledge, wisdom, music. Thanks be to God, for the grace to be able to do this.
Now, the holidays were excellent. I got to spend a week in Arizona with my parents before returning with them to Manteca, where we got to spend another five days together. We got to have a great Christmas celebration with friends and with each other. It is interesting, as the years go by, how much more I enjoy and cherish these holidays, as chaotic and disorderly as they may be. I get pretty stressed around Christmas time because I have an irrational resentment of gifts, materialism, and things of the like, but I was able to get past that. I painted a number of pictures for my family as gifts, I had a lot of fun doing it, so I guess that is what matters. For New Years, I got to spend it with the Youth at Calvary, as I have the previous years. I ran sound for the bands that we had play, and they did great! I was impressed by the high school band, they really did an excellent job for a bunch of young guys! I was super proud of them, I had each of them in my discipleship group at one point or another.
For once in a great while, I am short of words to say. Much else is on my mind, but I have not been able to organize my thoughts enough to be able to write them down. I hope you will forgive me for that. I wanted to take a minute and thank those who have given to my trip and chose to remain anonymous. I am unable to thank you personally if I don't know who you are. But that is okay, just know that I am grateful and that you are just as much a part of my trip as I am.
Please continue to pray for me as I continue with school and life. Anything and everything helps. Also, I know I have mentioned this before, but I would really love to get some hand written letters from people! Ha, I guess this looks like a desperate plea, and it may be. It is nice to know that people care. Don't be afraid to send me a letter! I'd love it, actually. I'll put my school address here since I don't know who does and doesn't have it:
Justin Thomason #714
2211 College View Dr.
Redding, CA 96003
I pray that God will bless you abundantly, and that you will respond with obedience to whatever He may call you to. I pray for the joy of His love to overflow from you and for grace to abound in your lives. Thank you for your support, your prayer, and your love.
I promise to write more next time.
-J
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