May 1, 2010 LIVING LARGE Woke up this morning, got donuts for the kids and picked up a free magazine as I was leaving the grocery store. Got home, surprised some happy kids with donuts and sat down to read a very inspiring article about Kathleen Wrigley from the magazine called Living Well. Kathleen Wrigley is LIVING LARGE – she lives with an attitude of abundance rather than scarcity and it is absolutely inspirational! Here’s a mother at age 39 of 3, stricken with 2 severe brain aneurysms and subsequent surgeries. And if that’s not bad enough, waking up from her last craniotomy with partial blindness. Yet, even in the midst of this medical storm, she continues to LIVE LARGE – she’s running the Fargo Marathon with her husband Drew on May 22nd. Kathleen doesn’t live with an attitude of scarcity (focusing on what she lacks); Kathleen lives with a contagious attitude of abundance which comes from her Heavenly Father. She claims the verse from II Corinthians 5:7 which says, “We walk by faith not by sight.” How do you live? Do you live LARGE with an attitude of abundance giving thanks for all that has been given to you by God or do you live SMALL – living in a way with hands and hearts that are tight-fisted. Certainly, we know how God wants us to live and it is life-giving to witness! LIVING LARGE – Bible Verse of the Day: Philippians 4:19 “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” LIVE LARGE today! E-Devotion May 2nd, 2010 ForGIVE Philemon was at Horace Lutheran Church this morning! I didn’t realize he loved country gospel! Actually, Philemon was played to perfection by Pastor Kirk Militzer from Triumph Lutheran Church in Moorhead. Philemon is a short letter found in the New Testament written by Paul to a fellow brother in Christ named Philemon. In this letter, Paul urges Philemon to show grace to his former slave, Onesimus who apparently ran away. Thank You Pastor Kirk for bringing home a timely and powerful message. In the same way, we are called to do this kind of giving too – ForGIVING. If you think giving money to the church makes you feel uneasy at times – try Forgiving someone. Yet, we need to remember that forgiveness is at the very heart of Christianity. We give because Jesus gives; We love because Jesus loves; and we forgive because Jesus forgives. Jesus never lets us off the hook when it comes to forgiveness. No loop holes. No escape clauses. We may feel we may get a pass when it comes to giving money to support God’s mission (and we don’t J) – we certainly are not off the hook when it comes to forgiving one another. Your Word for Today: As God’s children, you are commanded, urged, exhorted to FORGIVE. The Bible lesson is from Matthew 6:14-15. Listen to this zinger by Jesus… “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you don not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Uffda! So, today, this week, this month, this year – right now, make an intentional and prayerful effort to practice FORGIVENESS. It may be difficult, but with God’s provision of grace and power the results may surprise and delight you! Forgiveness is a beautiful thing – God knows it has an amazing way of transforming our lives. The cross sure did. E-Devotion Financial Integrity May 3 I’m getting ready to sell two of my cars. For the first time, they’re clean inside and out. But looks can be deceiving! I want to sell them for as much as possible and make some cash to put down on a newer car. The problem is… the cars have seen better days, and the likelihood of making some cash is minimal at best. It would be tempting to boost the price and wait for a careless buyer and sell it to them without full disclosure. But there rests the problem. That would be dishonest, and more importantly, it would reflect poorly on Christ because I am suppose to represent him! Everyday you & I will be tempted to compromise our faith for the sake of things that we want. Greed, covetousness and the desire for more will continue to gnaw at the very fabric of our faith. So what will be your response when faced with the temptation of financial gain? Let me suggest two things: - Pray: Ask God to keep you pure and on the righteous path for his name’s sake
- Soak up the Word: Daily reading of the Word of God will help keep you lined up and will give you instructions about doing the right thing.
So with that in mind: Here is your Word for today that comes in the form of a warning to us: I Timothy 6:9-10 “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.” Prayer: Lord Jesus, keep me pure in word and deed. Help me to be a person of integrity for your sake. Help me to live in such a way that it would reflect in a positive light my faith in you. And may my actions draw people to you. And finally Lord, help me to want You more than money. Help me to want you more than having stuff. Help me to want you more that anything else! In Jesus name, Amen. E-Devotion May 4 – Who’s the owner? I live in house I do not own. I enjoy a summer cabin that I do not own. I drive 3 cars and only wish they were driven by someone else J I take care of 6 beautiful children, but I’m not the owner. I am delighted to be married to the love of my life, but I’m definitely not in charge! In fact, I don’t own anything – God does. I simply try to care for what is owned by God. The Bible says we are stewards or managers of what already belongs to God. Listen to what King David says to God in a public prayer before the people of Israel… “Your, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Your, O Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things…” I Chronicles 29:11-12 Remember the Disney movie called “Little Nemo” and the scene with seagulls? In this funny, but true to life segment, a flock of seagulls selfishly cluck over and over again, “mine, mine, mine, mine...!” The same can be true with how we view our stuff. Challenge and Invitation: start seeing things and all relationships with this in mind: God is the Owner – all things belong to God. You and I are stewards – called to be faithful caretakers of what already belongs to God. Instead of adopting the selfish seagull mantra of… its “mine, mine, mine…!” May our motto, instead be, – it’s all “yours, yours, yours, yours…!” Main point: Who’s the owner? It’s not me or you. God is the owner. Everything belongs to God. So, live like it and live and give freely because it’s not ours anyway. E-Devotion – May 5 Make the Right Choice Life is filled with choices. Some choices are of little significance: like choosing your favorite ice cream, or picking out your favorite donut among many. But other choices are of great significance: like deciding who you are going to marry someday, what kind of career you are going to pursue or where you are going to live. And still other choices are of the upmost importance: where are you going to spend eternity. In terms of choices of utmost importance, it is critical to establish what is a trivial (like picking out clothes, or what am I going to eat tonight), and what is absolutely essential (your salvation). What makes upmost important decisions all the more serious is the fact that people of all ages have a tendency to spend all their time on trivial decisions and not get serious about eternal decisions until it’s too late. Today, I want you to think seriously about a choice that is of upmost importance. If you want your sins forgiven. If you want life rather than death. Blessing rather than a curse. If you want to spend eternity in heaven with God. If you want to lead a purposeful, meaningful life. If you want to experience joy that is everlasting. If you want to experience life in way that God intended it to be for you. Then, you need to take stock in this choice that is of upmost importance. Listen to what the Bible says about this eternal choice: Joshua 24:15 Choose this day whom you will serve, whether the false gods your ancestors served. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord Exodus 30:19 I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him, for he is your life. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 3:18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. John 5:24 Truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life. John 14:6 I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. I John 5:12 Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. The choice is whether or not you are going to accept the free gift of God in Jesus Christ and live for him from this day forth. The Bible says in John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. Make a life giving choice and receive Jesus Christ as your savior and lord. It is the most important decision you will ever make. The good news is he loves you and made the decision to die on the cross to save you and rise from the dead to make his promise completely trustworthy. Receive this gift. It’s your choice. Choose life J. And remember: non-decision is a choice. Don’t think your indecisiveness is going to make you exempt from this upmost important choice. It just happens to be an unwise choice according to the Bible. And here is a promise worth remembering about this eternal decision that all of us will need to make: If you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raise him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9 That’s a promise! God already made a choice and chose you. He loves you. Receive his love in Jesus Christ today. It is a good choice that has eternal significance! E-Devotion May 6, 2010 National Day of Prayer Verse of the Day: I Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Hard to be joyful in the morning when you wake up to dog droppings in the laundry room, cat puke on the carpet and a pee-soaked child in your bed! Ugh and Uffda! Hard to pray when the above happens and it’s certainly difficult to give thanks while my toes squish down on what was left by our cat. But, since it is God’s will for me to be joy-filled, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances – I have made up my mind today to be obedient to God’s Word and trust that God knows best. So here it goes… Dear God, Please excuse my uncanny ability to moan, groan and complain. I’m a problem child -- I know it and I need you desperately. Please forgive me and wipe away my negative attitude this morning. Give me a new start even though the day is already far along. I want to look at life that way you do, I want to see people the way you do. I want to cherish my wife, my kids and even my pesky pets. And finally God, help me to look beyond my circumstances and find joy in you. May your joy lead me to love those closest to me and those that I happen to see throughout the day. Help me to be a blessing for your name’s sake. Amen. E-Devotion – May 7 Rainy Day Faith It is a very cold spring day in North Dakota. It feels more like winter and my son (Ethan) is bummed that it has the potential to spit snow on his birthday – again! The house feels chilly again and I’m wearing a jacket, insulated sweatpants and wool socks around the kitchen waiting for the coffee to brew. Another cold rainy day L I need faith this morning – I wish I could simply drink it in like coffee. I need some faith that the sun is going to shine. Faith that it’s going to warm up. Faith that the church capital campaign will be a success. Faith that my grass in the front lawn will grow. Faith that people will step up in their financial giving at church. Faith that I will sell my cars. Faith that faith will bloom and grow at Horace. Faith that my kids will follow Jesus when they’re out of the nest – Faith that someday, they will get out the nest J. Faith that they will marry committed – on fire Christians – when they get to be 23, no 24, no 25, no 27… 30 years old? Faith that my youngest won’t drive me crazy. Faith that I can be a more patient dad. Faith that I will grow in faith! Faith that I won’t forget Mom on Mother’s Day. Faith that I won’t forget the wedding I’m performing today. Faith that today’s marriage will last a life time. Faith that my coffee pot will hurry up and brew. I need Jesus this morning – that’s all I need! Come Lord Jesus! Hurry up coffee. “Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1 I have faith He’ll carry me through this wet and rainy day. I know Jesus will help me see the sunshine of today even through the rain drops – even the slush-drops. I know Jesus has me in the palm of his hand and he will help me face the challenges – even the ones that I can not control – like members giving, my grass growing, my kid’s craziness and the slowness of the coffee pot. Wait, the coffee is done and… ah, the coffee tastes so good. I got Jesus, I got coffee and I know with confidence that today is going to be a great day even if it snows. And the good Lord is going to help me remember the wedding and my momma. I just took in Jesus without realizing it. It was easier than brewing coffee J E-Devotion May 8, 2010 Avatar Pony Tail Thing Watched the Movie Avatar last night. Didn’t make it through the whole thing yet – that’s a long movie! Long winded movies – long winded preachers. I now have empathy. I’ll try to keep the sermon brief on Sunday J. Speaking of the movie – I was fascinated with the “plug-in” pony tail part. An immediate connection was born when the Avatar people plugged the end of their pony-tails into the Avatar creatures they wanted to ride – once plugged in the ride began! My mind quickly imagined what would happen if securely plugged into Jesus. What a ride that would be! We don’t have handy-dandy pony tail plug-ins but we do have other ways to get plugged into our master. Think of these: Baptism Baptism is a God’s way of plugging into us. Through the waters of Baptism, Jesus shares his life, his Spirit, his forgiveness, his mission, his agenda, his purpose and puts his claim on us. The Bible says, “Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in the newness of life.” Rom. 6:3-4. Communion Another way God plugs into us. Through bread and wine, we take in the body and blood of Christ and all the benefits he promises. You have heard the saying, “You are what you eat”. Well – in communion – it is true! In this meal – God gives believers in Jesus his presence, his life, his forgiveness, his joy, his strength, and ties Christians together to live the faith. Jesus said, “I am the living bread from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh. John 6:51 The Word And God plugs into us by his Word (the Bible). The Bible says, “The word of God is living and active.” Hebrews 4:12. Faith By faith we receive all the good stuff from God and get firmly connected to Jesus’ life. The Bible says, “Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, thought whom we have obtained access to the grace in which we stand.” Romans 5:1 Several plug-ins – better than the Avatar pony tail plug-in gizmo! So, get plugged into Jesus and go to Church on Sunday! God has provided several outlets! By the way, I’m watching the rest of Avatar tonight. That pony tail thing is cool but Jesus’ way is real! E-Devotion May 9, 2010 Jars of Faith I want my faith to grow! I tired of settling for faith that requires no risk, no adventure, no act of God. It is easy to become too comfortable. Instead, I want to see God move in my life. Have you ever prayed… God, give me faith that can move mountains. God, increase my faith. God, help me to believe in you. God, help me to put my trust in you. Well, if this prayer has never been prayed, I hope it will today. And if it has, I hope this story will inspire you to grow in faith – jars of faith. (Read I Kings 4:1-7.) It’s a short miracle story about a widow, her 2 sons and a prophet named Elisha. It involved a little bit of oil and some strange directions in a very desperate situation. The desperate situation was that this widow was about to lose her to sons because she was unable to pay a debt – Her sons were on the brink of being taken away as collateral and work as slaves. In desperation, the widow calls out to Elisha for help. Elisha answers with simple directions: Go to your neighbors and ask for jars, not just a few, and bring them back to your house and close the door. Pour the little bit of oil you have left in each one of the jars collected. The jars will be filled. Pay your debts with the oil and live on the rest. What would you do at this point? Stay in the house and laugh at Elisha? Ask for clarification? Argue with Elisha? Go out and knock on only one door – just to satisfy the preacher? What would you do? The women did go out and she did bring back jars. The amount is not disclosed. But oil did pour out and the containers did fill. And only when the jars ran out did the oil run dry. Her debts were paid for and she had some left over for her sons and her to live on. I don’t know about you, but using this story as a faith illustration – I want jars of Faith! But take notice -- such faith requires risk, getting out of your comfort zone. But such faith is alive! Lord Jesus, grant us jars of faith today, tonight and into the new week. Amen. E-Devotion May 10, 2010 A Dog-ly Welcome Got up this morning with a dog licking my toes. What a wake-up call. Have you ever noticed how dogs never fail to greet you? It doesn’t matter how long you’re away – dogs will come runn’n to greet you with much affection. Rarely, do I exchange the warm greeting. I’m a far cry from being dog-like and I wish it wasn’t so. When it’s late, a kind word is “out the window” as I direct my kids to bed. Last night, my patience was non-existent as I doled out marching orders to my kids to comply or else. When I arrive home, my greeting too often rudely replaced with an attitude of “what have you done for me lately” or a noticeable glare of disapproval as I grudgingly pick-up things all over the house. I can learn much from my furry friends. A warm greeting would be a good change. God’s word has something to say about this too. In the book of Romans, Paul reminds the church to… “Welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” Romans 15:7 Dogs don’t wait to welcome you only on special occasions. They do it all the time. Maybe we can learn from our furry friends today and take the Biblical directives more seriously. Make a point to give each other a dog-ly greeting for the sake of Christ. It will make a difference. Just make sure you exchange such grace and pleasantries with a human being and not just your furry friends. Just don't lick their toes -- please J E-Devotion May 11, 2010 Got Vision? Most of us – even Christians -- live without vision. Its not that we can’t see, but we become blindsided with competing pleasures, pursuits and priorities and a prevalent message that life is “all about me.” And before we know it, our lives become like everyone else -- living for self and for everything else under the sun – but not for the Son. I know that sounds rather bleak and self-centered but I’m afraid it’s not far from the mark. Maybe it’s because our eyes and hearts have drifted away and are focused on something or someone else. Or maybe its because our culture’s relentless message that life is about “taking”, “consuming”, “getting”, “making money” and “making me happy.” Yesterday, I attended a Leadership Summit at Bethel Church. One of things mentioned hit home: “Most people, and Christians included, have forgotten who they are living for. In other words, they have lost their vision.” After hearing that… I thought, “It’s time to get our VISION back!” We need to get refocused on what really matters, who matters and who and what we are living for! Way, way back in 8th grade, I chose a Confirmation verse that still has its claim on me. As I think about it, this verse has everything to do with my Christian identity and a vision for life. Listen to what the Bible says in Galatians 2:20… “I have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me.” This morning at our 6am Men’s Bible Study called “You, Me, God and Donuts” one of the guys shared his vision verse from Philippians 1:20-21 – which says… “It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Both verses have VISION written all over it! Our life ought to be all about Christ, all for Christ, all in Christ and all because of Christ! So, what’s your vision for life? I hope its more than what is heard bouncing off the streets all over American. It’s not about getting rich, or becoming comfortable, or being happy or about me. It’s rather, all about living for Christ. Today’s challenge or let’s say… homework J… Write out a personal vision statement with a Bible verse. It doesn’t need to be long. It shouldn’t. Just a sentence or two or a paragraph. Don’t forget Jesus – He ought to be all over it. After your write it, post it where you’ll see it – and live out your vision statement. It will change your life! E-Devotion May 12, 2010 Don’t just believe -- live it! I’m reading a convicting book about personal finances. It is written by Dave Ramsey – a popular financial guru that is taking this country by storm right now. He just happens to be a committed Christian and it’s apparent in his book and principles. The principles he talks about in his book called, “The Total Money Makeover” are not rocket science (his words, not mine). They are basic principles most of us have forgotten or simply do not put into practice. Ramsey goes on to say that most of us know what we ought to do, but simple don’t do it. You’ve heard it before – live within your means, don’t spend more than what you have, give 10%, save 10%, live on the rest. Nothing new. But, even though we’ve heard it before – how many of us do it? I’m not doing it right now. I doing better on the giving part (most of the time), but I’m way off on the rest. I know what I need to do, but my body is slow to follow L. Dave Ramsey is quick to point out a well known and well worn truth: “Personal finance is 80% behavior and only 20% head knowledge.” Any good habit seems to follow this basic truth. How many of you have tried to lose weight? Most of us know the facts and the head knowledge stuff – eat less, eat better, exercise more and consistently and you’ll lose weight. Or… spend less, save some, give some, don’t spend more than want you earn and you’ll experience financial peace. The reality is… we know what we ought to do, but fail to follow through. The same is true with faith stuff. We might know the truth and believe in Jesus and his word, but when it comes to following it -- we either don’t want to do it or simply fall short (all of us do!). So, here’s the good news and faith challenge today. The Good news: God is good and his grace is new every morning: Listen… “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23 Know that God offers us his mercy and grace and provides us a fresh start. Take advantage of this! I only wish the extra 2,000 calories I consumed or my overspending would be conveniently erased J. Nevertheless, Christ invites us to repent and turn to him and will certainly give us courage to face a new day. The Faith Challenge: Don’t just believe (or know it), live it! Decide today to take what you know to be true (head knowledge) and put it into action (behavior). Put truth in action -- in faith, finances and fitness. By the way, if you are interested in attending the Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University course, it will be offered this fall on Tuesday nights starting September 14. God bless you today!
E-Devotion
May 13, 2010 A BOOST “Don’t give up,” “Don’t stop now,” “keep going,” “you’re going to make it,” “hang in there,” “you’re almost there!”, “I’m praying for you.”, “I’m proud of you.” “I love you.” Words of life, Words of encouragement. They mean a lot! Are you in need of a BOOST? Do you have a test today in school, finals coming up, looking for work, health concerns, an upcoming job interview, lonely, relationship problems, recovering from surgery, coping with cancer, starting a new job, upcoming Doctor’s appointment or just having a tough day. May God’s Word encourage you today: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 “Nothing can separate you for the love of Christ.” Romans 8:39 “Cast your burdens unto Jesus for he cares for you.” I Peter 5:7 Jesus said, “No one can snatch you from my hand.” John 10:28 “The joy of the Lord is your strength” Nehemiah 8:10 Certainly, you know people that need a REAL “boost”. Make it your ambition today to be an encourager to someone you know or even a complete stranger. On the last mile of the Fargo Marathon last year, I remember hearing and seeing complete strangers shouting words of encouragement to me. It was a needed boost! I know Hannah & I will need plenty next week as we run the Fargo ½ marathon. Your words coupled by the manner in which say it (sincerity) makes a huge difference. Write a note, a letter, send an email, facebook someone, send a text message, pick up the phone, drop by and visit. Whatever form of encouragement you choose, make a point to do it today. Give someone a BOOST today. You will make someone’s day and it will certainly brighten yours as well. E-Devotion May 14, 2010 Sit Down There are a few things we do right. Countless things we do wrong. But this one seems to be paying off. So, I’ll take a stab at sharing it with you. I highly recommend this one from yester years. SIT DOWN and EAT TOGETHER. Yes, you heard it right. Sit down and eat together without distractions. Turn off the TV, put the Computer on sleep mode, silence the cell phones and get around the table and eat together. We have a habit of doing it most nights. Holly even gets the table decked out at least once a week. She’s amazing! A decked out dining table with Lucky Charms and Peanut Butter Captain Crunch served up. Just kidding – sounds good though! This is what we do… We do a family prayer. Sometimes I’ll pray. Other times, one of the 6 kids prays, or we sing something (they sing something). Then, we dig in. One of the traditions at the Sorensen household is to do “Highs & Lows”. It gets everyone talking, laughing and knits us together. Good thing to do. Highly recommend it! I still haven’t figured out how to corral them to do dishes yet. I’ll have to work on that one! It’s still Mom or Dad doing the dishes and watching all 6 mysteriously scattering until its time for a nightly bowl of ice cream with Dad. Not nightly, but I wish J! So, try it at your home. SIT DOWN and EAT TOGETHER with no distractions. God has a way of getting in the mix. E-Devotion May 17, 2010 A Pastor’s Rant, Rave & Remedy Part I of III Note: You might not like this – but it’s straight from my heart to yours. VERSE of the DAY: “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection…” Philippians 3:10 RANT: A sad cultural phenomenon of the Lutheran church is to let them go after Confirmation. More than half the kids confirmed rarely make it back through the doorway of the church once confirmed – unless it’s another confirmation to attend, a wedding, funeral or maybe Christmas or Easter. What does this say? It says Christianity is just another program and hoop to go through rather than a relationship with Christ, His church and His mission for a lifetime. It is pathetic, apathetic, sad and is one of my biggest gripes of Lutheran Church and unfortunately – other denominations too. Christianity is not a program – It’s a relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ that ought-a show. RAVE: Witnessing families and individuals build their lives around Jesus Christ. It is inspiring! Its authentic, its real and it shows. I see this relationship with Jesus being lived out daily at Church and at my children’s school at Park Christian School. It can’t be quantified, but it can be seen. It’s not showy, pompous or holier-than-thou – It’s real! REMEDY: It is a matter of the heart. Many folks know the truth expressed in Christianity. They may even be able to recite the various parts of the Catechism and know all kinds of factoids about the Bible and about Jesus. That can be accomplished through a program. But for many, once the program is finished – their done. The remedy is found in a relationship with Christ. It is never done – because it’s not a program! And it never was intended to be! It is active, living, daily and all encompassing. It can’t be neatly packaged and compartmentalized into a Sunday morning or a once in a life time confirmation program. It involved your whole life – 24-7. It is a relationship with Jesus Christ that is expressed in such a way that influences everything you do and say. Once you experience true Christianity – you’ll never go back to the program. E-Devotions May 18, 2010 Rant, Rave, Remedy – Part II or III Rant L Doing church nine months out of the year and boycotting it during the summer. Did you know that Horace Lutheran Church has a 75% drop out rate during the summer. We go from an average of 300 a Sunday to about 80 – that means, the Sorensen family make up about 10% of the congregation during the summer months – Yikes! Message: “Church doesn’t fit my summer program and will just have to wait until September.” L Rave J Our family gets to enjoy the beauty of the lake and bask in the warm sunshine for 3 short months before the chill of winter knocks on the door. It is absolutely life giving to get outside, take a deep breath (without swallowing a bunch of bugs J) and experience all the good pleasures that summer brings forth: like water skiing or wake boarding on a still Minnesota lake, listening to the loons in the early morning. Waking up to a blissful mug of coffee and gazing out to the lake. A long run around the lake and then jumping in afterwards. A lazy afternoon and napping on a hammock swaying gently between two birch trees by the lake. Watching the kids play king of the dock as they pull, push and tug their friends/brothers/sisters off and into the refreshing waters. Watching my kids catch frogs or chase butterflies. Driving up to church on a Sunday morning before anyone has arrived and watching the morning sun emerge above miles of fertile soil in the distance. The sight and smell of crops growing all summer long! Walking through a corn field, or a wheat field or a soybean field or watching Sun Flowers in unison follow the Sun. Countless BBQs and lots of ice cream. I can go on and on. I love summer in North Dakota! Remedy By all means, keep enjoying all the goodness and pleasure that summer brings and do it with gusto! Just, don’t stop going to church just because it’s summer. You can do both – we do! And summer continues to be great! Make it a new habit to worship the Lord in the Summer. Stay true to the spirit of the 3rd Commandment: “Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.” If you are a lake goer (like us), find a church in the nearby area and make it your church in the summer. When my family stays behind at the lake, they go to a church nearby. It’s convenient and it is a great experience to worship in a different church. Besides, it takes less than 2 hours and you’ll be lake side in no time! So, just say “NO” to taking a break from Jesus. Say “Yes” to going to church in the summer. Stop boycotting church in the summer and start attending. It certainly will make it a much happier experience for your pastor and the faithful few. Otherwise, it’s going to be lonely summer in a big new empty church. Do church this summer! Make Horace Lutheran into a 12 month out of the year church! See you Sunday – not next fall! J E-Devotion May 19, 2010 Rant, Rave, Remedy Part III of III Rant Grace-Less Christianity. It’s an obnoxious oxymoron! It really shouldn’t be – but I see it all the time and worse of all – I see it in myself. Christians ought to be torchbearers when it comes to showing mercy, grace and forgiveness. But sin seems to slither in and whisper self-righteous indignation and we swallow it wholesale. With arms folded and with a scowling glare we stand aloof -- too stubborn to extend an open hand to those who have offended us. Instead, we let the sin of “ungrace” fester in our hearts and wonder why we are so miserable. We have become professionals when it comes to finding excuses and plausible ways of refusing people grace. It’s a sad reality and it needs to change. Rave I see it everywhere and in ordinary places. I see it in homes, where milk is pilled and momma gently wipes up the mess and smiles at her child (or her husband J). I see it in nursing homes and hospitals, where nurses humbly serve providing compassion and healing. I see it on baseball fields where players strike out and grounders missed and the coach provides grace and encouragement and a loving parent gives support and an encouraging outlook: “you’ll get’m next time.” I see it in church, where a child is crying and another climbing on the pews, and another entering with muddy shoes while members smile and recall the days of yesterday when they did the same. I see grace in the tears of a momma sharing the story of being reconciled with her daughter after years of anguish. I see it and give thanks and remember Jesus. Remedy Experience Jesus again. And again. He is the king of mercy, forgiveness and grace. He went to the cross without your asking, he died for your sin without your permission and he offers forgiveness, mercy and grace as a free gift. Take it. Take him and drink in his teaching everyday. His teaching on grace, mercy and forgiveness will move and convict you and his love for you has the power to change lives – even me J. Word for the day: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32 E-Devotions May 21, 2010 Looks Can Be Deceiving I always thought I was in good health. I work out and run all the time. I don’t over eat and rarely get stressed. I think I look healthy and I feel healthy, but looks can be deceiving. I’m on my 3rd visit to the Doctor and my kidney functioning is abnormal, my blood count is out of whack and my blood pressure is through the roof. The doctor’s looking over my blood work today. If it looks fishy he’s going to recommend that I don’t run the Fargo ½ marathon. You gotta be kidding me! Looks can be deceiving. A thorough examination can often give us a picture of our physical health, but what about our spiritual health? How are you doing spiritually? A common answer I hear all the time: “I don’t know?” Or… “I think I’m OK?” Or… “I hope so.” Just like our blood can reveal things about our body chemistry and physical health, the Bible can reveal things about spiritual health. Jesus Christ is rightfully known as the Lord of Life and the Savior of the World. He also is known as the Great Physician. He knows us better than we know ourselves and he loves us more than we love ourselves. He cares for us and he knows what’s best for us. Ever wondered how you might be doing spiritually? Jesus has a way of helping us gauge it – even pin point it! Listen to what Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 My doctor doesn’t mince words. Jesus doesn’t either. What he says comforts and confronts. What do Jesus’ words say about our spiritual condition? Our spiritual life depends on Jesus. It is completely reliant, dependent and completely tied to Jesus. If we are connected Jesus we are good to go and if we are not – we’re in trouble. I wish my physical problems were as simple and easily defined. I may or may not be doing the ½ marathon tomorrow. I will know soon. I may not like the answer. How are you doing spiritually? Looks can be deceiving. If you are not connected to Jesus – you may not like the answer. Physical cures are hard to find. I wish I could snap my fingers and my physical problems would just go away – can you relate?! The Goodnews is we are guaranteed a spiritual cure found in Jesus Christ! And we can have it today! Let’s pray… Lord Jesus Christ, you are the savior of the world. You are the Lord of my life. You are the great physician of my soul. You know me better than I know myself. You know myphysical and spiritual condition and you know how I can be healed. You know what I need. Your word tells me that you love me and that you died on the cross to make me whole. Please forgive me of my sins and draw me close. Tie me to you forever. Thank you Jesus. Amen. E-Devotions May 25, 2010 Gotta Have It, Please! The Sorensen family likes ice cream – a lot. On special occasions, we go to Cold Stone Creamery to satisfy this particular craving. At the counter, there are about 20 choices of ice cream and all kinds of delicious toppings as well as picking the portion size. There are 4 sizes: Child, Like It, Love It, and Got To Have It. Though everyone’s choice would certainly be “Got To Have It”, our family often settles for “Child” size with no mix-ins because Dad’s buying J. We settle for less L. I think we settle for less when it comes to church and faith too. Imagine for a moment ordering it up from a faith menu: - “Just an hour please” – make it child size.”
- “Giving an offering to the Lord? Me? Child size please.”
- “Studying God’s word – do I have too? Child size please.”
- “Love thy neighbor?” Child size please.”
- “Surrender to God? Commitment to God? Make it child size-bite size please?”
This is starting to sound a lot like a rant! Yikes! I guess it is. But, don’t think it’s about you. It’s about me. I like it easy, convenient, bite size. Leave out the commitment, the sacrifice, the risk. Leave in complacency, status quo, on my own terms, when I feel like it, and when there is absolutely nothing else better to do. For most Americans who claim to be Christians, I hate to say it -- but the reality is…we are Child size – when it comes to expressing the faith. No wonder people feel bored out of their minds when they go to church. The expectations are so low! There is little craving for God. Child size please L. I’m sick and tired of settling for less! Aren’t you? I’m tired of just “Doing Church.” I’m sick of a ho hom routine. I tired of being a “company pastor” simply making the troops happy and content. Because making the troops happy in the typical American church is so easy. It requires almost no sacrifice. No discipleship. Yuck! I want the real stuff. I want more! I don’t want the child size stuff anymore. I want “Gotta Have It” sized faith. How about you? What if we start today and ask God for “Gotta Have It” sized faith? What would our faith life be like? I know it wouldn’t be boring anymore! How could it be! Look at Jesus. Look at his disciples and the early church. There is nothing boring about it. So, how bout it? Let’s start today! Not tomorrow, or next week, or when fall starts again. Right now. I gotta believe God will be thrilled to open up his kingdom and give it to us. God wants us to experience life to the fullest. God wants us to yearn and crave His Son, Jesus. In fact, God invites us to closer walk with him. He wants us to taste it! God says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good!” Psalm 34:8. Want more…Read John 15:1-16. Good stuff! Order it up today. Ask God for it – “Gotta have it” size. Let’s pray: Heavenly Father, forgive me for settling for less when it comes to my commitment to you. I’m tired of my comatose Christian existence. I’m tired of being complacent, lazy and bored. I want more! Increase my love for you God! Give me a craving for your kingdom and what you want! Jump start my heart so it starts beating for you! Give me a craving that goes beyond Ice Cream. Put in my path other people that have this craving too. Give me a constant craving for you and fill me up Lord! All for you Lord, All for you! Amen. E-Devotion May 27, 2010 Thanks! I know it’s inconvenient! It takes time, it’s probably not necessary and certainly not on the top of your list of things you like to do. But still -- it is a good and gracious thing to do. More important than that, it is clearly biblical and what God desires for you to do – regularly. So, make an effort to do it today and then again and again! In the last two weeks, my wife & I have received out-of-the-blue Facebook and e-mails messages and phone calls from people that we haven’t heard from in years. These people simply called, e-mailed, facebooked to say “Thank You.” Wow! What a boost! Imagine the boost you can give someone today! Think of at least three people today you can e-mail, facebook, visit or call today to say “Thank you.” I know it will take some time. But, it’s worth it! It may be a veteran, doctor, childcare provider, mechanic, nurse, grandparent, neighbor, volunteers at church, school teacher, counselor, friend, janitor, co-worker, boss, paperboy/girl. You get the picture. Pick three and make contact today. You will make their day, brighten your own day and fulfill one of things God calls us to do as Christians. But remember, this is something you can’t simply check of the list. It’s something we are called to do daily. For God calls us to grateful, thankful living in response to what God has done for us in Christ Jesus. The benefits are fantastic! It’s entirely free, it’s contagious and it will infuse joy where ever it is expressed. Don’t forget to do it. It’s your faith assignment. God’s “Thankful” Words for the Day: “I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and all the saints, and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ.” Philemon 4-6 “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.” Colossians 3:15 “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” I Thessalonians 5:16-18 E-Devotion May 30, 2010 Remember Memorial Day! I am getting to the age of forgetfulness. I need to be reminded of things constantly lest I overlook it! I’m not sure if its age or self-absorption or a mixture of both. All I know is that the things I ought to remember sometimes get back logged and forgotten. Sticky notes come in handy. On my sticky note today: Don’t forget Memorial Day! I don’t need a sticky note to remember the other things associated with Memorial Day. I did the BBQ thing yesterday at the lake. 2 Days of 90 degree temperatures on a Minnesota lake with plenty of burgers and hotdogs and s’mores to devour. For some, the food thing and the lake thing is all this weekend will be about and I must confess I have done the same. On too many occasions, I have played and ate my way past Memorial Day without any thought of our men and women who have died serving our country. Not this year. I want to remember. I hope you will remember what this day is about too. I often crank up a favorite war movie to get in the mood. Last year it was “Saving Private Ryan” followed by a marathon summer series of “Band of Brothers.” This year, I want to sit down and talk to a one or more of our veterans in our congregation. I want to say thank you to those who are still living who fought in wars that they will never forget. Veterans will never forget and I want desperately to find ways to remember! It is not difficult to see the connection between Memorial Day and the faith we celebrate. Every other week, our church gathers around the altar to celebrate the Lord’s Supper and remember that Christ died for us that we may live! We remember, so we can live purposefully and giving thanks for what our Lord did for us. In the same way, Memorial day offers to Americans a day to remember the fallen and those who died in battle -- remembering there sacrifice to preserve our freedom. Maybe a few sticky notes will come in handy to help us remember! Verse of the Day: “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 Too often I am too self-absorbed to remember significant, life-transforming events. They go unnoticed, unappreciated, and because of my neglect – dishonored. Not this time. The sticky note has been posted. Remember Memorial Day J! E-Devotion June 2, 2010 Share the Weight After a long day at the lake, these doggies were tuckered out. Pictured is our 3 year old Golden Retriever named Amber and his faithful new friend Teddy – named after the famous North Dakota lov’n President “Teddy” Roosevelt. They were found snoozing on the way home in the Suburban on Memorial Day Weekend. When the days are long and the nights are short, who’s there to share the weight with you? Christians are not bound to bear the burdens of life alone. God has given us friends to help carry the weight. And he has certainly provided us with his Son, Jesus Christ. Word for the Day: “Cast your burdens unto to Jesus for he cares for you.” I Peter 5:7 Invitation: God has placed people in your life that need your help. Ask God today to move you to share the weight with them. May this four-legged image inspire you share the weight for the sake of others – today! Prayer: Lord Jesus, I know you made and saved me for a purpose. I have many burdens that weigh me down. I cast them before you Lord because I know that you care for me. (Share these specific burdens before the Lord in prayer). Thank you in advance for sharing the weight. Now Lord, place someone in my path today that I may help. Help me to share the weight. In Jesus name. Amen. E-Devotion June 7, 2010 Contentment Edna Johnson at age 93 has discovered something most have ignored – Contentment. It’s not that she has everything but it is because she has someone. Edna’s secret – friends that show that they care and one that will never let her down. On Wednesday afternoon, she was surrounded by more than 20 of them on her 93rd birthday and Edna was all smiles. The dictionary defines Contentment as this: a state of being reflected by a feeling of calm satisfaction. Given that definition, Edna certainly mirrors that description! Yet for many of us, this feeling of calm lasting satisfaction is largely ignored in our culture. Greed, envy, covetousness and the want for more seems to run our insatiable appetite for something we do not have. In our striving for something we do not have, we often miss what Edna enjoys – contentment. Well – I want that J! Don’t you? Listen to what Paul says in his letter to the church: “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.” Philippians 4:11-12 Paul’s answer for contentment may or may not surprise you. It is not found in the stuff and fluff, it is brought into being through relationships. Paul’s final answer… I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 Jesus’ answer is more direct: Seek 1st the kingdom of God and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33 Edna has found contentment in relationships and one that supersedes all the rest. Friends that care deeply about her and one that cares for her beyond human comprehension. Once you talk to Edna, it won’t take long to notice that her greatest companion is Christ. Fleeting happiness can be found in stuff and human relationships. But lasting contentment can only be found in Christ. Want Contentment? Look to Christ. Prayer of the day… Heavenly Father, forgive me for being duped and fooled and hoodwinked by this world. I have been lured by stuff, fluff and the lie that a person can make me perpetually happy. It has gotten me nowhere – fast. I have become bankrupt in false promises of satisfaction. Please Father, give me the free gift of your Son. Grant me a hunger to have him in my life and hold me tight to him! I long for relationships that matter and ones that have eternal significance. Bring friends into my life, help me to be a friend and by all means, give me Jesus! Amen. E-Devotion June 8, 2010 Feeling Ugly Same dog – different day. There are days, I feel like the Angel pictured on the left. I feel scrawny, weak and rather ugly. But, on those days, I need to remember that someone loves me. I’m thankful for the friends that stick around when I feel rather ugly. Do you have friends like that? It is easy to have people LOVE YOU when you are looking and feeling beautiful. But, it’s when times are rough – when we’re feeling ugly – that love is really needed. Poor Angel is feeling a bit puny lately. Holly had to shave her because her fur was in knots L. It is time for our family to step up and make her feel like a princess even though her outer shell doesn’t look so appealing. And this time, we need to care for the new fur that hopefully will grow out… and quick! God’s Word for today: “For the Lord sees not what man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” I Samuel 16:7 Who do you know that may feel a bit ugly today? It may be a person who recently lost their job or someone that is having problems at home or at work. All I know is, I am certain that you are aware of people in your life that are feeling ugly and are in need of some love. God’s love and his spirit have been poured into our lives so we can share it with others. Do it today! You will be amazed at how God uses ordinary folks like us to make an extraordinary difference in someone’s life. Angel may not look pretty for awhile, but she feels like a princess non-the-less. We are speaking words of love to her and giving her the loving attention she needs. Now, try this on a human being! You may even see the coat of ugliness turn to a wardrobe of beauty because of your expression of love. We sure hope so with Angel! E-Devotion June 15, 2010 In the Meantime What do you do while you wait? Where do your eyes wander when at a grocery checkout lane? What do you do while waiting at the doctor’s office? How do you spend your time when stranded at the auto repair shop waiting for your car to get fixed? What do you do in the meantime? Yesterday, I found myself waiting for 5 hours in Devil’s Lake while my car was being repaired. In the meantime, I took a walk around town, had lunch, prayed for folks, prayed for a reasonable repair bill, dialed up a few dozen people on my cell phone, took a leisurely jog around town and then found a coffee shop to write. And, of course, found a way to get some ice cream. What do you do in the meantime? Our whole life is about what we are to be about in the meantime? Thankfully, Jesus gives us loads of stories, illustrations and instruction about what we are to do in the meantime – between the time Jesus ascended into heaven and the his promised return to take us home. Take a fresh look at some of these “in the meantime” lessons from Jesus: · Parable of the 10 Virgins – Matthew 25:1-13 · Parable of the Talents – Matthew 25:14-30 · The Final Judgment – Matthew 25:31-46 What does Jesus say we ought to be doing in the meantime? Please take notice -- nothing is suggested about doing whatever we feel like it. Nothing is mentioned that we ought to live for ourselves. Nothing is said we should do all we can to make lots of money, get toys, and retire so we can continue to live for whatever we feel like it. What do these stories suggest we ought to do in the meantime? Jesus’ stories point to what we ought to be doing, who we ought to be living for and who we ought to be serving. So in the meantime, read these three stories listed above. If it does change the way you think and convict you to live differently, then what I have been jotting down on my laptop computer in the Liquid Bean coffee shop in downtown Devil’s Lake will have been a meaningful thing to do. May your meantime be fruitful for the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. E-Devotion June 20-21 Just Pray I got to the lake on Friday with lots on my mind. I didn’t think of praying until I ran into a fisherman and big burly man. Afterwards, prayer was a whole lot more attractive and inviting. Here are 2 prayer stories to inspire your day – and prayerfully get you praying. “Grandpa, I want to catch some fish. Can we say a prayer and ask God for a fish?” Grandpa thought for a moment and replied, “Sure we can.” After reeling up their lines, Grandpa asked his grandson to pray. Without hesitation the boy prayed, “Dear God, please help me catch a fish. I really would like to get one. Amen.” Grandpa bated the hook and invited his Grandson to cast it into the lake. The boy, with much excitement and anticipation, cast his line into the lake. It wasn’t a great cast but it found the water. Grandpa wondered what was going to happen and was a little worried if this was even a good idea. In less than 10 seconds, the wondering and worrying was over – the line pulled tight and the boy screamed with surprise, “I got one. Grandpa, I got one!” The boy reeled in a hefty bass and the boy was all smiles as he asked Grandpa. “Why didn’t we do this before?” Grandpa didn’t know exactly what to say. Instead he looked back at his grandson and just smiled. I wondered what all the racket was next door. A very strong man in his 50’s was cleaning up the mess from the storm. I asked him, “What brings you here?” The man replied, “I used to live here years ago and your folks asked if I wanted to come up and help out.” I further inquired, “How long you going to stay?” Without hesitation this big man said in a very soft voice, “What ever the Lord wills. I’m just open. I figure the Lord will let me know when I ought to move along. For now, this seems to be right where he wants me to be.” I didn’t know exactly what to say. Instead I looked at this big gentle giant and just smiled. Besides, I certainly wasn’t going to argue with the man. J I am convinced we make prayer more complicated than it really is. Sometimes we don’t want to pray because we think we’re being too selfish. Other times, we don’t pray for our own needs because we think there are others who are a lot worse off. And still other times, we don’t pray because we don’t want God to interfere with our plans. I am further convinced that we have we analyze prayer to the point of paralysis. Analysis Paralysis. God wants us put our faith in action! Jesus didn’t merely talk about Prayer. He led his disciples to pray. After being asked by a disciple, “Lord, teach us to pray”, Jesus said, “When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. And lead us not into temptation.” Luke 11:1-4 (keep reading -- vs. 5-13 – good stuff!) So, stop thinking about praying. Pray! In fact, stop where you are. Put down whatever you are doing and pray. Pray for whatever it is that is on your heart. Your health, someone else’s health, your work, your family, your marriage. Ask God. It took a day at the lake and a word from a fisherman and big strong gentle lumberjack to get it through my noggin. So pray. Just do it. Right now. Then record your prayer requests and look for God to do great things. Record your answered prayers. Then email me some of your stories of how God worked in your life. I look forward to hear your faith stories! God bless you today and by all means…pray! E-Devotion July 6, 2010 Oh Deer! Took a run at the lake and the strangest thing happened! A baby dear hopped on the road and started following me. I jogged another half mile and it was still right behind me. I ran to the right and then to the left – it followed. I stopped – it stopped. I think the poor Critter thought I was “mama” (I don’t look like bambi! Bullwinkle, maybe). I turned down to our lake place and it pranced after me and around our cabin. By this time, all the kids came to witness this very peculiar phenomenon. Finally, I figured I better lead this disoriented deer back into the woods. I started jogging away back to the road, and of course, it followed. Not until a big truck rumbled past did the baby deer flee into the forest. It was the strangest thing and I felt sorry for the poor lost deer. Who are you following? What are you running after? Hopefully you are not like the poor little deer that had lost its way. The Bible gives us clear direction of who to follow and warning of clear and present danger. If you feel you are on the right path, be mindful of what Jesus said lest you be misled… “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” Matthew 7:13-14 Jesus also said a few verses later… “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21 Or be aware of Apostle Paul’s warning… For the time is coming (and it’s here) when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” II Tim. 4:3-4 I am afraid that many have lost there way yet feel confident they are on the right path. Some have lost their way convinced that they are the “captain of their own destiny.” Still others wander off course thinking following Jesus s not really necessary if you simply believe who he is. Thankfully, Jesus does not leave us hanging. He has given us clear direction and following him is certainly part of the program. Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd. The sheep hear his voice & he calls his own sheep by name & leads them out. The sheep follow him, for they know his voice.” Jn 10:3-4, 14 “I am the way, the truth & the life.” Jn 14:6 Still with such clear guidance, many good people harken to a cackaphone of voices that lead them astray. I see it everywhere and these errant voices can be so appealing and we seem to convince ourselves that they are not leading us away. I often feel powerless, like a gimpy sheepdog, trying to persuade meandering sheep back to safe, green pastures with the true shepherd. Messages: You compare… Live the way you want, do whatever pleases you…serve God and do what pleases him It’s my life and I can do anything I want with it…Your life is not your own - it’s God’s. Heaven is reward for those who live good lives…heaven is a gift received by faith in Jseus There are many paths to God…there is only one way It doesn’t matter so much what I do - just believe…without fruit your faith is dead Don’t be fooled into thinking you are on the right path. That little poor deer was lost and I think it finally realized he was in the wrong camp following the wrong thing (me!). Stop following the masses down the idle path. Like a deer in the headlights they will someday discover they are running after the wrong things. So, take it from a gimpy sheepdog and listen and follow the good shepherd. He’ll lead you to green pasture instead of a pile of manure. E-Devotion July 8, 2010 Get Rid of It! I finally got rid of them! Gone are the stains. Vanished are the problems and headaches. The unpleasant odor and clamor have all disappeared. No more money sifting like sand between my fingers. In less than 24 hours, on Monday, July 5th – the extra baggage, the added weight, the heavy burden has been lifted. My kids have finally moved out. Just kidding J! I finally got rid of my two old and tired cars! I know it’s hard to believe, but someone wanted them and I gladly took the cash! I must admit, I have horrible thoughts of them being dropped off in the middle of night in my driveway, but I am confident that I have seen the last day of my most worthless possessions. One must part with those things that bog us down. In fact, just think of the amount of energy, time and resources we spend on STUFF. I, say, “good rid dens” to those things that get in the way of what really matters. Get rid of the extra clutter, the excess clothes, the mounds of excess stuff in your garage. Why on earth do we accumulate so many things that we will never or rarely use. And yet, we spend a huge amount of time and hard earned cash caring for and storing them. Yikes! Imagine the relief if you got rid of the hordes of things that only amount to a larger space to accommodate them. I say, “get rid of it!” Imagine the extra cash that could be put on into savings or to pay down a debt or to make a difference to a special charity. Just think of it. No more stumbling into another object of fleeting desire that is no more that just clutter with a mound of dust on it. Get rid of it! I am convinced, sadly, that we are “overboard” with the myriad of possessions that occupy our attention and crowd our hearts. When it comes to what is most sacred – relationships – we have simply run out of time – and resources. I wonder what God thinks about our obsession with possessions? Wait. I think you might already know. But, just in case one forgets, allow these words of the Bible jog the memory… “For all that is in the world – the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions – is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.” I John 2:16-17 And if this in not convincing enough, hear the words of Jesus who said, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” Instead, Jesus clearly teaches us to be… “rich toward God.” Luke 12:15, 21 I can’t wait until next Monday, July 19th! On the 16th, 17th and 18th, we are going to have a garage sale. I can’t wait to get rid of a mound of possessions. They simply just take up space, time and give me heartburn. I can’t wait to sell them and donate the rest and find more time to dedicate my time and energy on what really matters – RELATIONSHIPS – my God, my wife, my kids (I love them & they are not for sale J) my church family, and people (that’s everybody) and use more of my resources to build God’s Kingdom! E-Devotion July 15, 2010 Habitat Lesson Monday was a picture-perfect day to volunteer for Habitat for Humanity and an opportune moment to learn a lesson. An energetic group of 11 from Horace Lutheran gathered by a near complete duplex in North Fargo Monday morning to help finish the project. At least 4 for us were unskilled (ME being one of them and the other 3 bore the name “SORENSEN”). We were given the task of building two 8 X 12 sheds and install the porch fascia. During the day, we were mentored by 4 volunteer master builders and I was amazed with their expertise and patience. Each step of the way, these seasoned veterans kept their cool while leading, mentoring and giving detailed instruction to a bunch of greenhorns. To capture what they were up against, let me paint a picture for you. At one point, we needed to level the playing field and prepare a good foundation for where the sheds would be placed. After trying to level the area -- the flooring was placed over the footings. 6 of us gathered around the listen to the sage advice of Gary, the master builder and our esteemed mentor. He took out the LEVEL and showed us where we needed “more dirt”. Then the comedy of errors began. Each of us, eager to please started lifting up the plywood corners and started to dig and scoop dirt to where we thought we needed it – all at the same time! Gary, our instructor, looked on with astonishment as all 6 of us simultaneously and independently tried to level each corner and sides. It had to be funny to watch, because Gary was all smiles. Obviously this was not going to work – we were not working together. Calmly, still smiling, he encouraged us to stop and work one corner at a time. With much coaching, we were able to make a level foundation and the fun part was ready to begin! Gary, our master builder and teacher can be a likened to a Christian mentor. It requires patience, “all hands on deck” instruction and a sense of humor along the way. I was thankful for the handful of master builders who guided us each step of the way. With their help we were able to build something that resembled a shed – it was amazing! In the same way, patient Christian mentors are needed on our journey of faith. It requires parents, teachers, fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to take the time to lead by example and take others by the hand to live the faith. It must be deliberate. It must be intentional and it must be done along side those who are learning the faith. Are you taking the time and energy required to mentor someone in the faith? The most effective instructors are not the “employed” pastors – they are the people who are closest to you. Start mentoring today. Or find a mentor and begin living the faith. It is exhilarating and it makes a world of difference -- for eternity. Inspiration Verse: II Peter 4:2 “preach the word, be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.”
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