- You find an IV bag hanging in the car.
- You walk into her room and she says, “Do you want to hear about shock?”
- She starts using the words “heck” and “crap” a lot more than she used to.
- You start to hear the phrase, “I’m going to die” quite frequently.
- She suddenly has no idea what’s going on with the rest of the family.
- There are a LOT of Dr. Pepper and Coke Zero bottles in the trunk.
- You see a lot of scrubs going through the laundry.
- She walks into your room while you're trying to do homework and asks if she can practice vitals and assessments on you.
- There are a ton of alcohol swabs taped on her bedroom door.
- She squirts the ceiling with an IV flush just for kicks.
- She tries to teach the whole family how to use an incentive spirometer.
- When you suddenly realize that the topic of conversation is how to drain fluid from a person’s brain out their back.
- She drops a giant textbook on her desk and says, “I have to know all of that by Thursday.”
- She asks you, “Hey, do you want to know [this]?” and you answer, “No,” and she tells you anyways.
- After thirty minutes of silence she pipes up, “I gave two units of blood today.”
Nov 16, 2010
Nov 8, 2010
Rant #1 - Writing when I have Nothing to Say
I'm going to rant. It won't be long, but I really want to get this off my chest.
I'm taking this Old Testament Survey class and we're required to respond to other student's discussion question answers on the class forum. That makes me really irritated. I mean, if I have something to say about their answer, I'll say it, but most of the time I don't have anything worthwhile to say! They answered the blasted question, and they did it just fine! Unless the question is surrounded by controversy or differing opinions, there really isn't much to say! I have to hunt for answers that are worth responding to, and even then, I end up writing something that feels really petty. And its because the other students have good answers that don't need anything added or changed. But then! All your responses are supposed to "further the discussion"!
I guess I'm learning the art of furthering a discussion that doesn't need to be furthered. How pointless.
...Okay, I'm done. As you were.
I'm taking this Old Testament Survey class and we're required to respond to other student's discussion question answers on the class forum. That makes me really irritated. I mean, if I have something to say about their answer, I'll say it, but most of the time I don't have anything worthwhile to say! They answered the blasted question, and they did it just fine! Unless the question is surrounded by controversy or differing opinions, there really isn't much to say! I have to hunt for answers that are worth responding to, and even then, I end up writing something that feels really petty. And its because the other students have good answers that don't need anything added or changed. But then! All your responses are supposed to "further the discussion"!
I guess I'm learning the art of furthering a discussion that doesn't need to be furthered. How pointless.
...Okay, I'm done. As you were.
Nov 2, 2010
Oct 25, 2010
Oct 23, 2010
Oct 21, 2010
Character Quizzes...
I needed a break so I did some random character quizzes.
Do these fit???
Do these fit???
Which Harry Potter Character are you?
Oct 19, 2010
Masonry Daughters
My dad lead worship the Sunday before last. The twins played keyboard, Sarah was on bass, I was on drums, and we borrowed a couple guitarists. After the service had come to a close, we finished our "closing jam session" (really what it is, because no one sings) as people left their seats and began to mingle or convert the sanctuary into a cafeteria.
As I began to dismantle and unplug the array of wires and set pieces, our guest speaker, Mark Hamby, who had given the sermon that morning, walked up and shook my hand. He told me that we did a good job, and that he thought it was really cool that a girl was playing the drums. He referred to Nehemiah 3:12 where Shallum repaired a section of the wall with the help of his daughters, a characteristic he calls "masonry daughters."
While I wouldn't use that verse to claim a biblical sanction for playing drums if my role in that vocation was ever questioned, I thought it was a cool characterisation.
I'd always heard the "Tom Boy" label and never liked it. In every case that I heard it used, the girl was always proud or rebellious, refusing to comply with feminine protocol just to be cool. It seemed to be governed by the idea with the role of a woman was ridiculous, and the "tom boy" was steppng out of her role as a young woman in order to prove a point.
I know several of these Masonry Daughters. My role model is Brianna Walden. She was the intern girl for the Oregon TeenPact classes that I staffed earlier this year. Every morning, she would fly delicately down the stairs, dressed in a skirt and suit jacket, a picture of wonderful femininity. And yet, the day before she had organized an unconventional roap swing activity for us girls, and played a mean game of Ultimate Frisbee, not afraid to dive and get dirty. The crazy stories she told of her outdoor adventures and the work she would do with her dad on their property, revealed that she wasn't merely the delicate jewel she appeared to be. She was definitely a masonry daughter, but she wasn't proud about it, and viewed it as part of being a daughter, rather than a rebellion against her role. She would do any job, but keep her beautiful femininity with her.
This is the kind of daughter that I want to be, willing to take my femininity with me while taking adventerous steps outside the usual paradigm to do the rough-and-tumble jobs. Tough, but refined. Fearless, but feminine. Willing, but respectful. We are Masonry Daughters.
As I began to dismantle and unplug the array of wires and set pieces, our guest speaker, Mark Hamby, who had given the sermon that morning, walked up and shook my hand. He told me that we did a good job, and that he thought it was really cool that a girl was playing the drums. He referred to Nehemiah 3:12 where Shallum repaired a section of the wall with the help of his daughters, a characteristic he calls "masonry daughters."
While I wouldn't use that verse to claim a biblical sanction for playing drums if my role in that vocation was ever questioned, I thought it was a cool characterisation.
I'd always heard the "Tom Boy" label and never liked it. In every case that I heard it used, the girl was always proud or rebellious, refusing to comply with feminine protocol just to be cool. It seemed to be governed by the idea with the role of a woman was ridiculous, and the "tom boy" was steppng out of her role as a young woman in order to prove a point.
I know several of these Masonry Daughters. My role model is Brianna Walden. She was the intern girl for the Oregon TeenPact classes that I staffed earlier this year. Every morning, she would fly delicately down the stairs, dressed in a skirt and suit jacket, a picture of wonderful femininity. And yet, the day before she had organized an unconventional roap swing activity for us girls, and played a mean game of Ultimate Frisbee, not afraid to dive and get dirty. The crazy stories she told of her outdoor adventures and the work she would do with her dad on their property, revealed that she wasn't merely the delicate jewel she appeared to be. She was definitely a masonry daughter, but she wasn't proud about it, and viewed it as part of being a daughter, rather than a rebellion against her role. She would do any job, but keep her beautiful femininity with her.
This is the kind of daughter that I want to be, willing to take my femininity with me while taking adventerous steps outside the usual paradigm to do the rough-and-tumble jobs. Tough, but refined. Fearless, but feminine. Willing, but respectful. We are Masonry Daughters.
Oct 14, 2010
College Update #3 - OT Law and Grace
I'd never thought about the law and grace in the way that my OT Survey textbook depicted them in relation to each other. While the extensivity (is that a word?) of this relationship would merit a much more in depth study than the excerpt below, I had never considered this specific point and context until the author presented it's possibility. I'm glad I found it so interesting because there was a question about it on the reading quiz. That aside, here's the snippet.
"We are used to drawing a sharp contrast between law and grace. This would have puzzled the ancient Israelite for whom there was hardly any greater display of God's grace than that demonstrated in his giving of the law. In the ancient Near East, gods were not known for their consistency. Worshipers were left to guess what might please their god or displease him, and this could change from day to day. That doubt and uncertainty led to a constant confusion, and one could only guess whether he or she was in favor or out of favor by evaluating one's daily fortune.
"The law changed all that for the Israelites. Their God had chosen to reveal himself and to tell them plainly what he expected of them...One result of this perspective is that in the Old Testament the Israelites are not heard complaining about the burdensomeness of the law. It was a great example of God's love for them that he would communicate to them in this way. They considered themselves fortunate to be able to know what God required of them. The law was viewed as a delight rather than drudgery, as freedom of revelation rather than fetters of restriction." (Hill 175)
While I doubt the author's ability to read the minds of the Israelites, it does seem like a plausible depiction of their regard for the law.
Hill, Andrew E., John H. Walton, A Survey of the Old Testament, 3rd edition, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, MI, 2009
"We are used to drawing a sharp contrast between law and grace. This would have puzzled the ancient Israelite for whom there was hardly any greater display of God's grace than that demonstrated in his giving of the law. In the ancient Near East, gods were not known for their consistency. Worshipers were left to guess what might please their god or displease him, and this could change from day to day. That doubt and uncertainty led to a constant confusion, and one could only guess whether he or she was in favor or out of favor by evaluating one's daily fortune.
"The law changed all that for the Israelites. Their God had chosen to reveal himself and to tell them plainly what he expected of them...One result of this perspective is that in the Old Testament the Israelites are not heard complaining about the burdensomeness of the law. It was a great example of God's love for them that he would communicate to them in this way. They considered themselves fortunate to be able to know what God required of them. The law was viewed as a delight rather than drudgery, as freedom of revelation rather than fetters of restriction." (Hill 175)
While I doubt the author's ability to read the minds of the Israelites, it does seem like a plausible depiction of their regard for the law.
Hill, Andrew E., John H. Walton, A Survey of the Old Testament, 3rd edition, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, MI, 2009
Oct 13, 2010
Personality: ENFJ
I'm at it again! I found this one quite interesting.
You are:
Slightly expressed extravert
Very expressed intuitive personality
Moderately expressed feeling personality
Slightly expressed judging personality
Here is a more in-depth analysis. I found it revealing and rather comical. Seems to fit.
And here's another page telling me I should be a teacher. Imagine that.
Slightly expressed extravert
Very expressed intuitive personality
Moderately expressed feeling personality
Slightly expressed judging personality
Here is a more in-depth analysis. I found it revealing and rather comical. Seems to fit.
And here's another page telling me I should be a teacher. Imagine that.
Oct 9, 2010
DISC Test Results
I love these types of assessments. I'm not quite sure why I find them so fascinating. What's hilarious about my results is that my dad is an a high "S", my mom is a high "C", and Sarah is an absolute "S". I basically defied all familial norms when I came on stage.
The test I took was not the most thorough, but it was free. I know Wikipedia's not the most wonderful source of all time, but I did like the following summary:
________________________________________________________
Dominance: High "D" people are described as demanding, forceful, egocentric, strong willed, driving, determined, ambitious, aggressive, and pioneering. Low D scores describe those who are conservative, low keyed, cooperative, calculating, undemanding, cautious, mild, agreeable, modest and peaceful.
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
Conscientious: High "C" people are careful, cautious, exacting, neat, systematic, diplomatic, accurate, and tactful. Those with low "C" scores challenge the rules and want independence and are described as self-willed, stubborn, opinionated, unsystematic, arbitrary, and unconcerned with details.
Oct 6, 2010
A Girl's Holy Ambition: Her Knight in Shining Armor
Sarah and I were talking the other day. We do that a lot, but this particular conversation was especially thought-provoking. We were noting how fast our peer circle is growing up. Our little buddies are driving, our sisters are taller than we are, and our friends are heading into college. Basically, our social group is experiencing the winds of seasonal change. All of these conditions, achievements, and circumstances are normal in the process of growing up, but it’s still rather strange to see the paradigm shift as past seasons come to a close and we enter a new stage of life.
Also, a development that we see as quite strange is how many of our friends through grade school are "in relationships" with their recently (or not so recently) discovered significant others. We learn of these "situations" and, after a wide-eyed look of shock crosses our faces followed by several awkward blinks, we go about the task of finding a knook or cranny in which to store the strange piece of information in our unyielding brains.
It's not like we've never considered the day our dad will walk us down the aisle, it has just never been of such immediate importance that we spent much time dwelling on it. As girls, we're not going to initiate that type of "relationship" (See Mark Driscoll on this idea, its rather entertaining.) so we don't spend our mental energy wondering, worrying, or planning for it. ...Not to mention the fact that we've always been "too little." If those special people come along, our dad will let us know.
That aside, there is one mindset regarding guy-girl relationships that really ticks me off. It pains me to see girls who graduate or finish their schooling in some form or another and then just wait around to get married. They have no real evident purpose and no practical plan. They sometimes work a few odd hours a week, or "help out" at home, but their life's philosophy seems to complacently say, "Oh, I'm just waiting for my knight in shining armor to come and find me." Their whole purpose in life is oriented around that ride into the sunset.
As Sarah and I were discussing this sad reality, I made the point that, "These girls seem to just sit around, waiting for their knight in shinig armor to rescue them," and then (in my best attempt at a Mark Driscoll impersonation : 7:00-7:15) I'm like, "I HAVE ONE! His name is... JESUS! I don't need this guy!"
If a girl's purpose in life is founded in Christ, then He will completely exceed her expectations. If a girl's purpose in life is founded in her significant other, that poor man will always fall short of her expectations. Either that, or she will worship him in the place of Jesus, yet another role he was never meant to fulfill.
I was rather challenged and inspired by this message from John Piper.
Also, a development that we see as quite strange is how many of our friends through grade school are "in relationships" with their recently (or not so recently) discovered significant others. We learn of these "situations" and, after a wide-eyed look of shock crosses our faces followed by several awkward blinks, we go about the task of finding a knook or cranny in which to store the strange piece of information in our unyielding brains.
It's not like we've never considered the day our dad will walk us down the aisle, it has just never been of such immediate importance that we spent much time dwelling on it. As girls, we're not going to initiate that type of "relationship" (See Mark Driscoll on this idea, its rather entertaining.) so we don't spend our mental energy wondering, worrying, or planning for it. ...Not to mention the fact that we've always been "too little." If those special people come along, our dad will let us know.
That aside, there is one mindset regarding guy-girl relationships that really ticks me off. It pains me to see girls who graduate or finish their schooling in some form or another and then just wait around to get married. They have no real evident purpose and no practical plan. They sometimes work a few odd hours a week, or "help out" at home, but their life's philosophy seems to complacently say, "Oh, I'm just waiting for my knight in shining armor to come and find me." Their whole purpose in life is oriented around that ride into the sunset.
As Sarah and I were discussing this sad reality, I made the point that, "These girls seem to just sit around, waiting for their knight in shinig armor to rescue them," and then (in my best attempt at a Mark Driscoll impersonation : 7:00-7:15) I'm like, "I HAVE ONE! His name is... JESUS! I don't need this guy!"
If a girl's purpose in life is founded in Christ, then He will completely exceed her expectations. If a girl's purpose in life is founded in her significant other, that poor man will always fall short of her expectations. Either that, or she will worship him in the place of Jesus, yet another role he was never meant to fulfill.
I was rather challenged and inspired by this message from John Piper.
Oct 5, 2010
Thought in a Question #5
What's your life's mission?
...I'm not kidding, I'd really love to know! Comment below.
John Piper: Do Something Risky and Find Your Niche
John Piper: Do Something Risky with Your Life - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AZVkexI1qQ&feature=related
John Piper: Find Your Niche - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XFPbRzFpi4&feature=related
Oct 4, 2010
John Piper's New Jacket
I found this rather hilarious. Made me laugh. Have a wonderful day.
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRg7lpozNzU&NR=1
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRg7lpozNzU&NR=1
Oct 2, 2010
Megan's Note
Megan left me this note on a "floating post-it" as my dad calls them. They're the post it notes that you can put on your computer desktop. It's from early January of this year, but I saved the message and found it not long ago. Basically, my little sister is amazng. Enough said.
Love you, Megs!
Love you, Megs!
Oct 1, 2010
Quirks
It wasn't long ago that I started wondering about my subtle (and some not so subtle) quirks. So, out of sheer curiosity, I decided to think about it for a while and make a list. Sarah offered her two cents at the end.
I...
- Can't stand/sit still when I'm on the phone.
- Hate sitting "properly" in a chair.
- Can't seem to talk without my hands moving.
- Use the word "basically" far to often.
- Try to use the word "inexorably" in sentences where it never fits.
- Chew gum to a beat.
- Giggle at circumstances of assumed or expected etiquette and protocol.
- Like Gregorian Chants.
- Could listen to online sermon podcasts/media all day long.
- Keep singing along with the music, even after Sarah turns it off mid-song.
- Am the quiet girl in class.
- Would eat steamed broccoli for breakfast.
- Don't wear shoes when I can get away with it.
- Hate scholarship applications and water chestnuts with an inexorable passion.
- "She's a wreck! But it's awesome!" - Sarah
I'm sure there are more, but we'll leave it at this for now.
I...
- Can't stand/sit still when I'm on the phone.
- Hate sitting "properly" in a chair.
- Can't seem to talk without my hands moving.
- Use the word "basically" far to often.
- Try to use the word "inexorably" in sentences where it never fits.
- Chew gum to a beat.
- Giggle at circumstances of assumed or expected etiquette and protocol.
- Like Gregorian Chants.
- Could listen to online sermon podcasts/media all day long.
- Keep singing along with the music, even after Sarah turns it off mid-song.
- Am the quiet girl in class.
- Would eat steamed broccoli for breakfast.
- Don't wear shoes when I can get away with it.
- Hate scholarship applications and water chestnuts with an inexorable passion.
- "She's a wreck! But it's awesome!" - Sarah
I'm sure there are more, but we'll leave it at this for now.
Sep 29, 2010
It's Easy Until It's You
Worldview class last year was spent studying subjects, issues, and perspectives at a distance. I read about them; I watched videos about them. These worldviews were real, but they occured or existed in a place far away from my experience. Our class never met these people. Our textbook quoted them, the speakers spoke of them, but we didn't know them. We studied from a distance.
However, there comes a point where the subject matter breaks from a level of mere intellectual stimulation and floods your personal experience. Its wonderful when this event is thrilling and enjoyable, an experience that makes the content one's poured over for hours tangibly and appealingly evident.
It's not always like that. It’s easy until it's unpleasant. It's easy until it's disappointing. It's easy until its disconcerting. It’s easy to distantly handle the problems with the New Age movement until you come to find out that your grandfather has embraced a "Christianized" form of cosmic humanism. It’s fairly easy to handle the problem of evil and suffering until you or someone close to you faces physical or emotional pain. It's easy to handle agnosticism until a friend you've known for years embraces it and then leaves for California. These truths are relatively easy to handle distantly until they begin to play a sad song on our emotional heartstrings.
That song seems to build a level of deep authenticity behind our intellect because what we know is more than subject matter. Rather, it’s tied to relationship and experience. But also, the heart-wrenching melody seems to try our dedication to what we know to be true. While it's important to experience the content as well as know it, its imperative that we do not lose the content for the sake of how we feel towards it in that moment of true experience. Would I confront my grandfather, or avoid conflict? Would I praise God when life hurts, or despair? Would I labor in prayer for my friend, or distance that uncomfortable twinge? ...Would I allow what I know to penetrate further than head knowledge, or would I try to forget that life is war.
It's easy until it's you. Yet, until its you, it's not nearly as meaningful.
However, there comes a point where the subject matter breaks from a level of mere intellectual stimulation and floods your personal experience. Its wonderful when this event is thrilling and enjoyable, an experience that makes the content one's poured over for hours tangibly and appealingly evident.
It's not always like that. It’s easy until it's unpleasant. It's easy until it's disappointing. It's easy until its disconcerting. It’s easy to distantly handle the problems with the New Age movement until you come to find out that your grandfather has embraced a "Christianized" form of cosmic humanism. It’s fairly easy to handle the problem of evil and suffering until you or someone close to you faces physical or emotional pain. It's easy to handle agnosticism until a friend you've known for years embraces it and then leaves for California. These truths are relatively easy to handle distantly until they begin to play a sad song on our emotional heartstrings.
That song seems to build a level of deep authenticity behind our intellect because what we know is more than subject matter. Rather, it’s tied to relationship and experience. But also, the heart-wrenching melody seems to try our dedication to what we know to be true. While it's important to experience the content as well as know it, its imperative that we do not lose the content for the sake of how we feel towards it in that moment of true experience. Would I confront my grandfather, or avoid conflict? Would I praise God when life hurts, or despair? Would I labor in prayer for my friend, or distance that uncomfortable twinge? ...Would I allow what I know to penetrate further than head knowledge, or would I try to forget that life is war.
It's easy until it's you. Yet, until its you, it's not nearly as meaningful.
Sep 28, 2010
Sep 26, 2010
"Lukewarm and Loving It!" presented by Fancis Chan
You can find it in better resolution here: http://www.cornerstonesimi.com/special/media_player.html (October 1st, 2006)
Sep 23, 2010
30 Questions about Colossians 2:1-5
One of my homework assignments in my Bible Study Methods class is to ask 30 questions of a given text. I was assigned Colossians 2:1-5. The questions have given me a lot of material to occupy my thought life for a while. This exercise caused a much more in depth reading of the text than I've ever experienced. I'm not that good at it yet, but I'm rather elated. David's exhortations in Worldview Class about asking questions of Scripture suddenly make an incredible amount of sense.
Colossians 2:1-5 (NAS)
For I want you to know how great a struggle I have on your behalf and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen my face, that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God's mystery, that is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I say this so that no one will delude you with persuasive argument. For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good discipline and the stability of your faith in Christ.
30 Questions:
1. What kind of struggle is Paul talking about?
2. Why would Paul’s struggle encourage them?
3. Who are “all those” others who have not personally seen Paul’s face?
4. Where is Colossae?
5. Where is Laodicea in relation to Colossae?
6. Did the Colossians know those individuals in Laodicea?
7. Why didn’t Paul visit them during his journey through Asia Minor?
8. Is the knowledge of Christ considered spiritual “wealth”?
9. Is wisdom and knowledge considered spiritual “wealth”?
10. How do you gain full assurance of understanding?
11. How can wisdom and knowledge result from the knowledge of a mystery?
12. Does “full assurance” of understanding mean that you understand everything?
13. Does “full assurance” of understanding mean that you are confident in what you know?
14. Does “full assurance” of understanding mean that you know enough to be confident?
15. Does “full assurance” of understanding result in the knowledge of Christ?
16. Does “full assurance” of understanding result in wisdom and knowledge?
17. Doesn’t the term “mystery” mean that we don’t understand everything about it?
18. How can you have a true knowledge of a mystery?
19. If you can have “full assurance” in your understanding, then why is Christ called a mystery?
20. Are persuasive arguments bad?
21. What does “good discipline” look like practically?
22. What is the practical application of the “stability of faith” that Paul is observing?
23. What is going on in Colossae that would cause Paul to warn them of deluding arguments?
24. Why does Paul warn them to not be deluded by persuasive argument and then say that he has observed their stable faith?
25. Is being knit together in love a precursor to attaining spiritual wealth?
26. Does being knit together in love result in encouragement?
27. Does spiritual wealth result in the knowledge of Christ?
28. Does the knowledge of Christ result in wisdom and understanding?
29. Is the fact that Christ is a mystery the factor of doubt that would cause the Colossians to be deluded by persuasive argument?
30. Is Paul “with them in spirit” through prayer?
Colossians 2:1-5 (NAS)
For I want you to know how great a struggle I have on your behalf and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen my face, that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God's mystery, that is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I say this so that no one will delude you with persuasive argument. For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good discipline and the stability of your faith in Christ.
30 Questions:
1. What kind of struggle is Paul talking about?
2. Why would Paul’s struggle encourage them?
3. Who are “all those” others who have not personally seen Paul’s face?
4. Where is Colossae?
5. Where is Laodicea in relation to Colossae?
6. Did the Colossians know those individuals in Laodicea?
7. Why didn’t Paul visit them during his journey through Asia Minor?
8. Is the knowledge of Christ considered spiritual “wealth”?
9. Is wisdom and knowledge considered spiritual “wealth”?
10. How do you gain full assurance of understanding?
11. How can wisdom and knowledge result from the knowledge of a mystery?
12. Does “full assurance” of understanding mean that you understand everything?
13. Does “full assurance” of understanding mean that you are confident in what you know?
14. Does “full assurance” of understanding mean that you know enough to be confident?
15. Does “full assurance” of understanding result in the knowledge of Christ?
16. Does “full assurance” of understanding result in wisdom and knowledge?
17. Doesn’t the term “mystery” mean that we don’t understand everything about it?
18. How can you have a true knowledge of a mystery?
19. If you can have “full assurance” in your understanding, then why is Christ called a mystery?
20. Are persuasive arguments bad?
21. What does “good discipline” look like practically?
22. What is the practical application of the “stability of faith” that Paul is observing?
23. What is going on in Colossae that would cause Paul to warn them of deluding arguments?
24. Why does Paul warn them to not be deluded by persuasive argument and then say that he has observed their stable faith?
25. Is being knit together in love a precursor to attaining spiritual wealth?
26. Does being knit together in love result in encouragement?
27. Does spiritual wealth result in the knowledge of Christ?
28. Does the knowledge of Christ result in wisdom and understanding?
29. Is the fact that Christ is a mystery the factor of doubt that would cause the Colossians to be deluded by persuasive argument?
30. Is Paul “with them in spirit” through prayer?
Sep 11, 2010
Three Weeks into College - Update #1
I'm in college. I finally made it. Praise the Lord.
I have to be honest. I'm rather timid to write about college at the moment. I feel as if I'm smack dab in the middle of a game of dodgeball. It's rather exhilerating, but I spend most of my time trying to successfully navigate my way through the objects flying my direction, all the while apprehensively contemplating the probability of getting smacked good a hard. While I have college assignments to get turned in on time, I'm also involved in life at home, life not-at-home, teaching Speech, teaching Apologetics, and wondering if I'll ever get around to painting my room... probably not. My new comforter will have to sit in the corner for a little while longer.
As soon as I get a break from this game of dodgeball and can sit on the sidelines for a little bit, my perspective will most likely be a bit clearer. At this point, I'm just trying to stay in the game.
But! I did promise dear Shelby Bennett that I'd blog about bible college, so I'll do a more informational report at this point in time. I'm attending Eternity Bible College's Portland Extension Campus. I'm taking Intro to Discipleship Counseling and Bible Study Methods at the extension campus in Tigard, OR and Old Testament Survey through their distance learning program.
My professors are great. Geoff Leatherman is a really easy going professor who handles class in a casual but productive manner. Justin Peterson's authenticity is encouraging, and I can tell he truly desires for us to have a grounded understanding of the Scriptures. Chuck Bomar is the substitute professor for Mr. Leatherman and Mr. Justin, but I haven't seen him much. Scott Newman, my distance learning professor, has graciously allowed me to add his class two weeks late and has answered my abundance of questions. I can tell that they are all great men who are committed to God and the work of His ministry.
More to come... when I get a break from the dodgeball game. Right now, it's back to Exodus.
Aug 27, 2010
On Teachers and Students...
Being a teacher has taught me to want to be the type of student that teachers love to have in their class. After experiencing the receiving end of a students attention and effort, I've begun to see what my high school teachers and my college professors really want(ed) for and from me.
Now I try to come to a class attentively listening for the mission the professor wants me to accomplish. Previously, I'd almost thought of myself as a leech or a sponge sucking up the professor's knowledge and experience and having to complete the course work to get a good grade. Now I feel like the task of "being a student" exists in a different dimiension than before. A teacher who so badly desires their student to understand their point, be impacted by the coursewok, and truly understand its importance is rewarded and encouraged by the apparent effort of a student to do so.
After being in their shoes, I understand how it feels. After setting a mission in front of my students that I saw was so important and would truly impact their lives, I was so encouraged by those who responded. I want to be a student that encourages her professor. Not to get a good grade, not to be liked or favored, but to truly give back to them what they're giving to me, and to catch the vision they so desire for me to see.
On a practical level, working to fulfill that mission oftentimes means going beyond the course work. In order to accomplish this, a student must understand how the course work accomplishes the mission. Giving a little extra effort and doing something that's not required but that furthers the teacher's mission for you as a student confirms that you understand the mission and have caught the vision. It communicates that the teacher has succeeded.
Now I try to come to a class attentively listening for the mission the professor wants me to accomplish. Previously, I'd almost thought of myself as a leech or a sponge sucking up the professor's knowledge and experience and having to complete the course work to get a good grade. Now I feel like the task of "being a student" exists in a different dimiension than before. A teacher who so badly desires their student to understand their point, be impacted by the coursewok, and truly understand its importance is rewarded and encouraged by the apparent effort of a student to do so.
After being in their shoes, I understand how it feels. After setting a mission in front of my students that I saw was so important and would truly impact their lives, I was so encouraged by those who responded. I want to be a student that encourages her professor. Not to get a good grade, not to be liked or favored, but to truly give back to them what they're giving to me, and to catch the vision they so desire for me to see.
On a practical level, working to fulfill that mission oftentimes means going beyond the course work. In order to accomplish this, a student must understand how the course work accomplishes the mission. Giving a little extra effort and doing something that's not required but that furthers the teacher's mission for you as a student confirms that you understand the mission and have caught the vision. It communicates that the teacher has succeeded.
Aug 19, 2010
Old-Earth vs. Young-Earth: "Oh Look, There's an Elephant in the Room"
Young-Earth Creationism and Old-Earth Creationism have battled themselves out inside my head ever since I was in eighth grade. My science teacher in my physical science class stood up and wrote something to the effect of "God created the world 14.1 billion years ago" on the white board, turned around, and proceeded to lecture for two hours on arguments for OE Creationism. That experience scarred me for life. I dare say I'm better for it, but it did leave a mark. That mark is a constant reminder of the day that I finally figured out that there was an elephant in the room.
Up to that point, I never even knew that that the controversy existed. The Creation/Evolution controversy was all that I knew about the debate concerning earth's origins and development. There really is a debate within the debate.
And then, as if the situation wasn't complicated enough already, I come to find that there is debate about the importance of the debate within the debate. There are those who believe that it doesn't matter how long it took God to create the world. The fact that He did it is satisfactory, and it sufficiently fulfills doctrinal necessity. Then, there are those who believe that OE creationism is complete heresy. Not taking Genesis 1-2 literally destroys the innerrancy of the Bible, the foundation of the gospels, and the basis for morality and salvation.
All of this controversy sometimes makes me wish that Genesis 1:1 was the only portion of Genesis 1-2 that existed. After reading Genesis 1:1 part of me wants to shut the book and call it a day. However, such an action is rather foolish considering the fact that God wrote Genesis 1-2 into the Bible for a reason. I don't know why, but I'm not one to make that call.
From a layman's perspective, it says "day". That's just what it says. When I say "day", I mean a 24-hour day. When I hear the word "day", I think of a 24-hour day. And then I read things like this and this, and I have to concede that they have a very good point.
All I can do is look at what the Bible says, always keeping in mind what my worldview teacher so rightfully drilled into my head during class. "Where revelation stops, I stop." I end up reading through Genesis 1-2 asking a ton of questions. "Wait, so this means...and that there....but what if.... and how can.... if that then...." I reach the end of Genesis 1-2 a bit befuddled and not quite sure which end is up. Then I have to wonder, "If it really mattered as much as some say, why isn't it more clear?"
What makes me incredibly uncomfortable is when, in the midst of my internal struggle, someone comes along and tells me that "the authority of the Scripture, the character of God, the doctrine of death, and the very foundation of the gospel" depend on a specific exegesis of this passage. God knew how controversial this would be. I can't help but wonder why God would base His entire plan for the salvation of mankind on a certain (and very controversial) passage at the beginning of the Pentateuch. Hanging your proverbial hat on Genesis 1-2 feels like dangerous business.
So, those are my ideas about the elephant in the room. My conclusion at this point? I've employed the tactic used many a time by actors on a stage. I've built a "fourth-wall" in front of the elephant. I don't think it matters. However, I'm still very ready to listen.
Up to that point, I never even knew that that the controversy existed. The Creation/Evolution controversy was all that I knew about the debate concerning earth's origins and development. There really is a debate within the debate.
And then, as if the situation wasn't complicated enough already, I come to find that there is debate about the importance of the debate within the debate. There are those who believe that it doesn't matter how long it took God to create the world. The fact that He did it is satisfactory, and it sufficiently fulfills doctrinal necessity. Then, there are those who believe that OE creationism is complete heresy. Not taking Genesis 1-2 literally destroys the innerrancy of the Bible, the foundation of the gospels, and the basis for morality and salvation.
All of this controversy sometimes makes me wish that Genesis 1:1 was the only portion of Genesis 1-2 that existed. After reading Genesis 1:1 part of me wants to shut the book and call it a day. However, such an action is rather foolish considering the fact that God wrote Genesis 1-2 into the Bible for a reason. I don't know why, but I'm not one to make that call.
From a layman's perspective, it says "day". That's just what it says. When I say "day", I mean a 24-hour day. When I hear the word "day", I think of a 24-hour day. And then I read things like this and this, and I have to concede that they have a very good point.
All I can do is look at what the Bible says, always keeping in mind what my worldview teacher so rightfully drilled into my head during class. "Where revelation stops, I stop." I end up reading through Genesis 1-2 asking a ton of questions. "Wait, so this means...and that there....but what if.... and how can.... if that then...." I reach the end of Genesis 1-2 a bit befuddled and not quite sure which end is up. Then I have to wonder, "If it really mattered as much as some say, why isn't it more clear?"
What makes me incredibly uncomfortable is when, in the midst of my internal struggle, someone comes along and tells me that "the authority of the Scripture, the character of God, the doctrine of death, and the very foundation of the gospel" depend on a specific exegesis of this passage. God knew how controversial this would be. I can't help but wonder why God would base His entire plan for the salvation of mankind on a certain (and very controversial) passage at the beginning of the Pentateuch. Hanging your proverbial hat on Genesis 1-2 feels like dangerous business.
So, those are my ideas about the elephant in the room. My conclusion at this point? I've employed the tactic used many a time by actors on a stage. I've built a "fourth-wall" in front of the elephant. I don't think it matters. However, I'm still very ready to listen.
Jul 22, 2010
Jul 21, 2010
Life at the Miller House
Life at the Miller House:
At random times throughout the day, people burst into song.
Inside jokes cracked left and right.
::knock knock:: ::opens door:: "Hey, Mom's calling you."
"I'm a WHALE!" - Sarah
"Lauren, could you come here?!" - "Coming!"
Morning meetings of giggling girls.
Cello practicing every day.
Sisters often make faces to make other sisters laugh.
The quiet hum of computers.
Flute practicing every day.
"Aundra?!" - "I think she has her headphones on, I'll get her."
Footsteps pounding down the hall and stairs after the dinner call.
Hugs.
A super hyper dog whenever anyone arrives home.
::someone sighs:: Someone else: "Yeah, I know, me too."
Violin practicing every day.
Laughter from the twins room.
Music suddenly blasts from speakers someone forgot to turn down.
"Virus database has been updated."
Hilarious conversations at the dinner table.
Finishing other sister's sentences.
"I'm gonna gut you in the punch! ....wait." - Aundra
Saying the same thing at the same time.
Sisters huddled around Sarah's computer screen.
Piano practicing every day.
High fives.
"Who's day is it to feed the dog?" - Dad
A psychotic fish who likes bubbles.
Baking cookies by memory.
Mickey-mouse pancakes.
Singing very loud with music while cleaning.
Morning chores.
Everyone hangin' out in the school room.
Sister visits in Lauren's room while she listens to an audio session.
"Special listening" playing in Megan's room.
Dash from the movie Incredibles said it so well...
"I love our family."
Jul 18, 2010
Jul 14, 2010
My Favorite Things #3
Staying up late working on important stuff while the rest of the house is asleep.
Jul 10, 2010
Worldview Class Withdrawals
I was cleaning my room this afternoon and happened upon this sheet of paper, which apparently served as a memory aid for one of my scripture memory assignments in worldview class. While I often "saved" (Ha ha...) this assignment until the last minute, I really do look back with fond memories of this weekly challenge.
I'm currently in the process of going back through the chapters of memory work from class and cementing it all. Hopefully the process will look end up looking more aesthetically pleasing than this random assortment of scribbles. However, truth be told: I really did have fun scribbling.
Jul 1, 2010
Jun 30, 2010
That Type of Friend
A friend can love you because of your strengths.
A friend can love you because of what you are to them.
A friend can love you because of how you make them laugh.
A friend can love you because of what you teach them.
But a deeper friendship is cultivated when...
They love you because of your strengths... and despite your weaknesses.
They love you because of what you are to them... and despite what you're not.
They love you because of how you make them laugh... and forgive you when you make them cry.
They love you because of what you teach them... but they know how to teach you as well.
This type of friendship brings a transparent honesty to the relationship and acknowledges the other's abilities and gifts. The first type of friendship is exhausting for the subject because they have to be superman all the time, and it's not healthy for the bestower because they are content with being weak and dependent in the relationship. But the second type is one that allows for the cognizance of weakness and strength in both individuals, which prompts humility, consequently causing a sense of vulnerability and openness. This sense of vulnerability seems to be communicated almost subconsciously, as a silent agreement and realization between the two individuals.
I have a friend that I've known for a long time, and at one point I began to prize myself, my strengths, and my maturity level above his/hers. This brought frustration to my friend, and distanced our relationship for a short time until I realized what I had done. As soon as I apologized, hence restoring needed humility to my end of hte relationship, and began to conduct myself in a way that communicated a sense of openness and vulnerability, the friendship healed.
It requires strength, but acknowledgement of weakness. Purpose to be all you can, but realization of your shortcomings. Laughter, but a willingness to cry. Teachability, but also the commitment to provide instruction.
Lord God, help me be that type of friend.
Jun 29, 2010
Jun 18, 2010
Older Siblings and Strawberry Lemonade
Awesome older siblings are the best thing ever. You know they love you enough to let you get away with some things, but also love you enough to be reasonable. At the same time, they know when you’re pushing them too far, and respond accordingly, at the same that they’re very sharing. Even though I only have one older sibling, I think she’s the best one ever. At the same time that we have loads of fun, I do know my boundaries. Take the following example for instance:
Sarah’s talking.
Her water bottle, filled with strawberry lemonade, is sitting on the desk next to her.
I grab the water bottle, open it.
She doesn’t see me at first.
I take a sip and grin.
She looks over.
I sip some more.
She give me that older sister level one cut-it-out look.
I know it’s non-threatening.
I drink a little more.
She keeps talking.
I sip again.
She gives me that older sister level two cut-it-out look.
I grin and sip some more.
I know I’m dangerously close to physical threat now.
She finishes what she’s saying.
I grin and sip some more.
She gives me that older sister level three cut-it-out look.
I know that I won’t get away without a penalty because I’ve brought it this far.
I grin, sip some more, close the top, hand it back, and giggle deviously.
She whacks me on the head with the water bottle.
“Ah-ha-ha-ow!”
I knew the levels were progressing. And I knew not to drink the whole thing. I knew to hand it back at the point that would not evoke serious physical or psychological turmoil. And it was because she had set those levels, those guidelines, and those consequences in previous entanglements.
Also, there is a fine line between being seriously annoying, and being funnily annoying. This exchange was camped in the latter of the two arenas. She didn't really mind that I drank some of her lemonade, this also had been previously established in past situations. However, it would have been seriously annoying for me to drink the whole thing.
I know right where I am, what I’m allowed to do without being seriously annoying, but what’s still considered teasingly funny. However, teasingly funny has its levels, and even results in teasing consequences. I know where the line is, but testing it is sure a lot of fun, as long as it doesn’t cross the line into seriously annoying.
Besides, it was worth the strawberry lemonade.
Sarah’s talking.
Her water bottle, filled with strawberry lemonade, is sitting on the desk next to her.
I grab the water bottle, open it.
She doesn’t see me at first.
I take a sip and grin.
She looks over.
I sip some more.
She give me that older sister level one cut-it-out look.
I know it’s non-threatening.
I drink a little more.
She keeps talking.
I sip again.
She gives me that older sister level two cut-it-out look.
I grin and sip some more.
I know I’m dangerously close to physical threat now.
She finishes what she’s saying.
I grin and sip some more.
She gives me that older sister level three cut-it-out look.
I know that I won’t get away without a penalty because I’ve brought it this far.
I grin, sip some more, close the top, hand it back, and giggle deviously.
She whacks me on the head with the water bottle.
“Ah-ha-ha-ow!”
I knew the levels were progressing. And I knew not to drink the whole thing. I knew to hand it back at the point that would not evoke serious physical or psychological turmoil. And it was because she had set those levels, those guidelines, and those consequences in previous entanglements.
Also, there is a fine line between being seriously annoying, and being funnily annoying. This exchange was camped in the latter of the two arenas. She didn't really mind that I drank some of her lemonade, this also had been previously established in past situations. However, it would have been seriously annoying for me to drink the whole thing.
I know right where I am, what I’m allowed to do without being seriously annoying, but what’s still considered teasingly funny. However, teasingly funny has its levels, and even results in teasing consequences. I know where the line is, but testing it is sure a lot of fun, as long as it doesn’t cross the line into seriously annoying.
Besides, it was worth the strawberry lemonade.
Jun 16, 2010
Thought in a Question #3
Is an aversion to disapproval from those you respect beneficial because it can prompt a pursuit of excellence, or is it a disadvantage because it can create intense hesitation to act at all for fear of making a mistake?
Jun 9, 2010
Reflections after Nationals
As promised, here is the post written after Nationals. For those who would like to see, the current NCFCA Nationals break announcements are here.
____________________________________
After the Fact
Here I am. Nationals is officially over. I remember sitting in Oregon, loading up my tattered binder from the previous post…and thinking that I didn’t want to go to Nats. However, now that I’m sitting here after the fact I look back and realize all that God did during my time at the college campus.
See…there were these hallways. They connected the lecture halls, which served as the student hang-out area, and the alumni building, where the tournament happened in 66 rooms on three different floors. Now the cool part is…not many people knew about these hallways. Hence, they were quiet and undisturbed. They were hallways of professor’s offices, however, the doors are usually closed, and the hallways are air conditioned. There were four hallways, two on level 2 and two on level 3. These hallways were a gift from God.
I think back to Thursday afternoon. I found out that I had broken in my persuasive speech the night before, and it was thirty minutes before my round began. I escaped to a secluded hallway on the third floor. It was quiet, it was protected, it was a place to get away. I sat there, thinking back over the past rounds, and realizing…that this round would determine a lot. I opened my Bible to 1 Corinthians and began reading chapters 1 and 2. I sat in that hallway, reading the scripture allowed quietly, listening to my voice echo in the stillness of my hide-away.
I read, “I was with you in weakness and in fear and in much trembling, and my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in the demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God.” It was only by the power of God that I could walk into that competition room. It was only by the power of God that I wouldn’t have a memory slip, it was only by the power of God that the speech I was about to give would impact any of my judges…it was only by the power of God. God would take that speech, and do His work in spite of me…not because of me.
I have to admit, I was nervous… but I also have to say… that the semi-final round was the best that I have ever given that speech. Not only that, but the room was full of people. My guess is that fifty people at least heard the message, the message that God had given me to convey six months ago as I sat at my computer on a morning in January writing that very speech. He was there when I wrote it, He was there when I memorized it, He was there through all the qualifying tournaments, and now, as I stood in the semi-final round at the National Championship, it was still His message, not mine.
The semi-final round of that tournament was the ultimate test of my faith. There was heavy competition, all weighted with the question of, “Who’s going to make it to finals?”… but as I sat in that hallway, fifteen minutes before my round began, tears in my eyes, I knew, as I’d known before, that it wasn’t about the competition. Such a realization seems incredibly cliché, because that’s always what everyone says. But what I realized was that my speech had become more than a speech to me. I remember not picking my topic because I wanted to win, but rather, because it was important. If God wanted the message of that speech to reach more ears, and draw more attention, then He would move it forward.
And He did. I sat in the hallway on Friday morning, thirty minutes before the final round. I read the passage over and over again, the same passage that I’d read the day before. God confirmed in my heart His calling for the next round. I ought to know nothing except Christ and Him crucified. That’s what ultimately matters. My commitment to my savior is my ultimate source of strength. I am not with persuasive words, but I come with the power of God. He’d put me there, placed that calling before me, and all I needed to know Christ and Him crucified, and God would take care of the rest.
The night before, I’d met the Scott brothers and Tait Deems by the parking garage and they congratulated me on making it to finals. Then Tait added, “So, at least the top three, kay?” …I laughed and replied, “I’ll talk to God about that one.”…And He did it. I placed in the top three.
Yesterday, Liz and I took one last trip to the hallways. I stood looking down that hallway, thinking of the times I had paced it, praying and reading, all the times I had used it as a quiet escape in order to focus my thoughts. I walked down the hallway one last time, with my backpack slung over my shoulder - the same backpack that held my tattered binder. The messages of the scripts within it had been proclaimed at a tournament…one last time. I saw how my calling at Nationals had been completed. God did His work in spite of me, not because of me…and yet…I was given the privilege of being used by Him.
The Tattered Binder
Eight members of our speech and debate team are at the National tournament this week in Virginia Beach. It hit me yesterday how much I miss being with them. Last year was a really beautiful time of connection and bonding between the members of our club that went to Nationals, and while my mind knows there's no way I could have gone, my heart is regretting staying behind. The decision to not go to National's was made out of wisdom, but yesterday I had to come to grips with the fact that there really is a part of me that desperately wants to go back.
In order to help relieve my wishful thinking, I found the two blog posts that I wrote before and after Nationals last year. The first post (below) entitled, "The Tattered Binder" was written the night before I left, and it was posted on my previous (since been deleted) blog and never reposted when I began this one. The second post, which never actually made the published post stage of blogging was written "After the Fact."
The first entry is below, and I'll post the second entry tonight if I can remember. (I'm leaving myself a sticky-note, we'll see if it works.)
In just a few hours, I'll be at the airport, waiting to fly to Greensville South Carolina. Nationals has been a long time in coming, but it's actually here now. I'm scared, unsure, and excited all at the same time, but overall, I trust God.
Earlier this evening, as I was prepping my speech and debate binder. This is a ritual that happens before every tournament. I stock it with stickynotes, paper, speech scripts, and notes from friends. I finished it up, and closed it, and then examined it a bit closer. It began in January as a new binder, completely without wear and tear. But as I looked at the split seams, scratches, and fingerprints, I realized that this binder represented a journey. A journey that began in January when I first went to the Clarion qualfier, and it's ending in South Carolina, at the National NCFCA tournament.
I starred at the binder and realized how ridiculous it is for me to be nervous. The line that had been a theme throughout regionals, from the song "I Cry" by Rescue, "Because You've been so faithful every other time", rang in my mind as I thought back to all my adventures and challenges of previous tournaments. God's done so much in my heart and in my life through the last few months, that there is no reason that I should fear walking into another situation that is governed by His direction, purpose, and righteous will. The tattered binder was a reflection of God's faithfulness to me through everything that He has, by His grace, brought me through thus far.
Its been a long year. And there are times when I just feel like I want to be done, I want it to be over, I don't want to do it anymore. And I look at the binder I and think, "I'm taking it to tournament again?! Just look at it! It's so torn up, but I'm here loading it up to bring it with me again!"... I want to be done because I feel like that binder. I feel like I've been used to my max, I feel like I can't survive another tournament, I just want to be finished with the whole thing for a while. And yet, then I think about the scripts that are inside that binder, and the messages that are, by memory, engraved in my mind. I still have a message. And after realizing how important that message is, I think, "Okay. This binder can survive another tournament."
God's given me a message. And even though I'm tired, even though my endurance level is low, God can still get me through another tournament. ..."He's been so faithful every other time." So tomorrow, I'll put that binder into my backpack and carry it onto a plane and take it to Nationals... where it will be used again... and more memories will be added to the journey as God proves His faithfulness yet again... at a tournament... one more time.
In order to help relieve my wishful thinking, I found the two blog posts that I wrote before and after Nationals last year. The first post (below) entitled, "The Tattered Binder" was written the night before I left, and it was posted on my previous (since been deleted) blog and never reposted when I began this one. The second post, which never actually made the published post stage of blogging was written "After the Fact."
The first entry is below, and I'll post the second entry tonight if I can remember. (I'm leaving myself a sticky-note, we'll see if it works.)
______________________________
The Tattered Binder
In just a few hours, I'll be at the airport, waiting to fly to Greensville South Carolina. Nationals has been a long time in coming, but it's actually here now. I'm scared, unsure, and excited all at the same time, but overall, I trust God.
Earlier this evening, as I was prepping my speech and debate binder. This is a ritual that happens before every tournament. I stock it with stickynotes, paper, speech scripts, and notes from friends. I finished it up, and closed it, and then examined it a bit closer. It began in January as a new binder, completely without wear and tear. But as I looked at the split seams, scratches, and fingerprints, I realized that this binder represented a journey. A journey that began in January when I first went to the Clarion qualfier, and it's ending in South Carolina, at the National NCFCA tournament.
I starred at the binder and realized how ridiculous it is for me to be nervous. The line that had been a theme throughout regionals, from the song "I Cry" by Rescue, "Because You've been so faithful every other time", rang in my mind as I thought back to all my adventures and challenges of previous tournaments. God's done so much in my heart and in my life through the last few months, that there is no reason that I should fear walking into another situation that is governed by His direction, purpose, and righteous will. The tattered binder was a reflection of God's faithfulness to me through everything that He has, by His grace, brought me through thus far.
Its been a long year. And there are times when I just feel like I want to be done, I want it to be over, I don't want to do it anymore. And I look at the binder I and think, "I'm taking it to tournament again?! Just look at it! It's so torn up, but I'm here loading it up to bring it with me again!"... I want to be done because I feel like that binder. I feel like I've been used to my max, I feel like I can't survive another tournament, I just want to be finished with the whole thing for a while. And yet, then I think about the scripts that are inside that binder, and the messages that are, by memory, engraved in my mind. I still have a message. And after realizing how important that message is, I think, "Okay. This binder can survive another tournament."
God's given me a message. And even though I'm tired, even though my endurance level is low, God can still get me through another tournament. ..."He's been so faithful every other time." So tomorrow, I'll put that binder into my backpack and carry it onto a plane and take it to Nationals... where it will be used again... and more memories will be added to the journey as God proves His faithfulness yet again... at a tournament... one more time.
Jun 7, 2010
Odd Realization
I feel as if my life is undergoing a constant reality check. In the past year, I've taken it apart, piece by piece, because I knew it needed to be different. Now I sit with all the pieces in front of me, and no clue how they're supposed to fit back together, and I'm afraid to start for fear that I'll get it wrong.
"Hm. What now?" I ask myself as I stare at my life, "This is very interesting."
"Hm. What now?" I ask myself as I stare at my life, "This is very interesting."
May 28, 2010
Thought in a Question #2
How much of getting good grades is about being a "genius", and how much is about formulating a study method for each subject, and figuring out how to work the system of the class or curriculum?
May 12, 2010
Broken Sea Shells: TeenPact Oregon Staff 2010
After many weeks of an intense schedule, I'm back! During these last two weeks I staffed the TeenPact Oregon Classes. Below is a note containing a short explanation of my time at the class and my time with the staff.
In honor of the remarkably inspiring staff: Joe Radcliffe, Brianna Walden, Jonathan Showman, Jimmy Brazell, Quinton Cools, Jennifer Sullivan, Valen Caldwell, and Rachel Aldrich.
Walking into the Oregon 2010 TeenPact classes was a little nerve wracking. Four faceless names were flying in from Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and Florida. I’d never staffed with any of the other individuals on my team, save for the program director. The two weeks before the class were filled with the NCFCA Regional tournament, a trip to Pensacola Florida, and staffing the Rainmaker’s Apologetics tournament. As I arrived at our host’s house, my condition did not bode well in regards to energy, enthusiasm, and awareness, three absolutely key elements to any TeenPact staffer’s success. Simply put, I was weak.
Jump forward with me to the end of the two weeks of class. We were driving the last out-of-state members of our team to the airport. In the middle of our last half-hour together, Brianna pulled out a paper bag. It was a bag full of broken sea shells. As she circulated the bag from seat to seat, everyone took one of the delicate tokens of her love and insight. She explained, “I went to the beach looking for whole sea shells to give to all of you. But I couldn’t find any, they were all broken. Then I thought, ‘Well, isn’t that a cool picture.’ It signifies our brokenness in the hand of God. Even though we’re not whole in and of ourselves, he can still use us if we let Him.” My broken sea shell sits on my dresser, a constant reminder of the Oregon 2010 TeenPact Classes, causing a consistent recollection of God’s strength being made perfect in my weakness during those two weeks.
Those four faceless names turned out to be some of the coolest people I’ve ever met. Combined with those I already knew were awesome, our staff group turned into the most bonded, encouraging, and functional team I have ever seen. Swift and fluent comradery equipped everyone with peace and excitement and was instrumental in meeting my emptiness and filling me with the joy and strength of Christ. The classes were a resounding success. The students were awesome, the staff was outstanding, and God was glorified. Yes, it was difficult. Yes, it was physically trying. Yes, I got sick the second week. However, cost defines worth. (In this case, at least.) It was difficult because it was quality. It was physically trying because we were committed. I got sick but, by God's grace, still pushed through as if I wasn't. The experience of those two weeks was worth so much, and it wouldn't have been worth as much, if it hadn't cost as much. It's usually the hardest things that are worth the most and are the most encouraging in the end. I was broken and weak, but God still proved Himself strong, and I was given the joy of being used by Him. Praise God.
Keep Smiling,
Lauren
_______________________
In honor of the remarkably inspiring staff: Joe Radcliffe, Brianna Walden, Jonathan Showman, Jimmy Brazell, Quinton Cools, Jennifer Sullivan, Valen Caldwell, and Rachel Aldrich.
Walking into the Oregon 2010 TeenPact classes was a little nerve wracking. Four faceless names were flying in from Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and Florida. I’d never staffed with any of the other individuals on my team, save for the program director. The two weeks before the class were filled with the NCFCA Regional tournament, a trip to Pensacola Florida, and staffing the Rainmaker’s Apologetics tournament. As I arrived at our host’s house, my condition did not bode well in regards to energy, enthusiasm, and awareness, three absolutely key elements to any TeenPact staffer’s success. Simply put, I was weak.
Jump forward with me to the end of the two weeks of class. We were driving the last out-of-state members of our team to the airport. In the middle of our last half-hour together, Brianna pulled out a paper bag. It was a bag full of broken sea shells. As she circulated the bag from seat to seat, everyone took one of the delicate tokens of her love and insight. She explained, “I went to the beach looking for whole sea shells to give to all of you. But I couldn’t find any, they were all broken. Then I thought, ‘Well, isn’t that a cool picture.’ It signifies our brokenness in the hand of God. Even though we’re not whole in and of ourselves, he can still use us if we let Him.” My broken sea shell sits on my dresser, a constant reminder of the Oregon 2010 TeenPact Classes, causing a consistent recollection of God’s strength being made perfect in my weakness during those two weeks.
Those four faceless names turned out to be some of the coolest people I’ve ever met. Combined with those I already knew were awesome, our staff group turned into the most bonded, encouraging, and functional team I have ever seen. Swift and fluent comradery equipped everyone with peace and excitement and was instrumental in meeting my emptiness and filling me with the joy and strength of Christ. The classes were a resounding success. The students were awesome, the staff was outstanding, and God was glorified. Yes, it was difficult. Yes, it was physically trying. Yes, I got sick the second week. However, cost defines worth. (In this case, at least.) It was difficult because it was quality. It was physically trying because we were committed. I got sick but, by God's grace, still pushed through as if I wasn't. The experience of those two weeks was worth so much, and it wouldn't have been worth as much, if it hadn't cost as much. It's usually the hardest things that are worth the most and are the most encouraging in the end. I was broken and weak, but God still proved Himself strong, and I was given the joy of being used by Him. Praise God.
Keep Smiling,
Lauren
Apr 9, 2010
Einstein's Theory and Absolute Truth
Here is another exerpt from my history textbook... (I know you're probably thinking that you've had enough of textbooks, but I found this really interesting!)
Albert Einstein, a German scientist, set forth a scientific theory that many writers and philosophers used to cast additional doubt upon the Scriptural and moral standards of Americans. Since the days of Sir Isaac Newton, scientists and philosophers had believed in an orderly world ruled by natural laws discovered by the scientific method. Through reason and common sense man could comprehend the universe, which was certain and machinelike. This comfortable view was shattered by Einstein's theory of relativity - that space, time, and matter are not absolute dimensions but are relative to the location and motion of the observer. By 1929 a Harvard mathematician confessed, "The physicist thus finds himself in a world from which the bottom has dropped clean out." Seemingly, the absolutes of science were no longer absolute, and, unfortunately, many Americans erroneously transferred Einstein's ideas to the spiritual realm. (Einstein himself opposed this use of his theory.) According to their faulty reasoning, Scripture could no longer be considered as absolute truth. Thus, they thought they were free of its moral restraints and responsibilities because these values were dependent upon the observer.
United States History Textbook, Bob Jones Curriculum, Third Edition
________________________________
Albert Einstein, a German scientist, set forth a scientific theory that many writers and philosophers used to cast additional doubt upon the Scriptural and moral standards of Americans. Since the days of Sir Isaac Newton, scientists and philosophers had believed in an orderly world ruled by natural laws discovered by the scientific method. Through reason and common sense man could comprehend the universe, which was certain and machinelike. This comfortable view was shattered by Einstein's theory of relativity - that space, time, and matter are not absolute dimensions but are relative to the location and motion of the observer. By 1929 a Harvard mathematician confessed, "The physicist thus finds himself in a world from which the bottom has dropped clean out." Seemingly, the absolutes of science were no longer absolute, and, unfortunately, many Americans erroneously transferred Einstein's ideas to the spiritual realm. (Einstein himself opposed this use of his theory.) According to their faulty reasoning, Scripture could no longer be considered as absolute truth. Thus, they thought they were free of its moral restraints and responsibilities because these values were dependent upon the observer.
United States History Textbook, Bob Jones Curriculum, Third Edition
Apr 7, 2010
Apr 6, 2010
A Thought in a Question #1...
How often do we fall victim to subpar stereotypical paradigms simply because we fail to realize that we could initiate a change in pattern?
-L
-L
Mar 31, 2010
Muckrakers
While I don't agree with all of the tenets of progressivism (movement in the late nineteenth century, early 1900's), the muckrakers (type of journalists) of time tell an interesting story. And yes, the quote is from my history textbook. Don't laugh.
The muckrakers served an important purpose, however, in informing the public. The golden era of muckraking journalism began in 1902 when Lincoln Steffens published in McClure's magazine an exposé of municipal corruption in St. Louis. His work was soon followed by Ida Tarbell's History of the Standard Oil Company (1904), a scathing portrait of the unscrupulous, even dishonest, methods used by John D. Rockefeller to build his oil empire. ...Unlike proponents of yellow journalism, who reported sensational stories simply to boost sales, muckrakers felt genuine concern for the causes they advanced. For the most part, muckrakers did not call for any specific action. They contented themselves with describing corruption in graphic detail and trusting in the revulsion of the American people to motivate reforms. In many cases, their faith proved justified as their attacks resulted in legislation addressing these abuses.
United States History Textbook, Bob Jones Curriculum, Third Edition
_____________________________________________
United States History Textbook, Bob Jones Curriculum, Third Edition
Mar 26, 2010
The Holocaust and Abortion: Redefinition and Devaluation
I wrote a speech last year for the NCFCA speech competition season. It did make it to nationals, but has gone unspoken since, which is sad, because I still find the concept important and fascinating. The speech was entitled "The Lie of Abortion" and discussed the mental process or condition that justifies abortion. Lately, I've been considering the idea of the speech juxtapositionally with the history of the Holocaust. (The italicized text indicates the sections of the speech)
Have you ever been riding in a car on the freeway, knowing you’re moving, but not really paying attention? It doesn’t matter that every second you cover 88 feet of pavement, it doesn’t matter that you’re burning gallons of gasoline, it doesn’t matter that you’re constantly moving further away from your starting point. You’re lulled into a feeling of disinterest, because none of what is happening is affecting you. This slab of pavement doesn’t look any different than what you drove over 10 minutes ago. All you’re thinking about is your destination. Everything feels the same. However, it’s not. You’re wearing down the pavement that you’re driving on, you’re burning the gasoline in your tank, you’re moving further and further away from where you were originally
This analogy of driving a car is an example of how people justify abortion in their minds. People understand murder. People understand what it means to be alive. People understand that when you get into a car and start the engine, you’re burning gasoline. People understand that sixty miles an hour will get you somewhere fast. But as they sit in the car, as they convince themselves that abortion is justified, they don’t care anymore, and they’re lulled into feeling entirely unconcerned.
Think about the Holocaust. Six million Jews died innocently. Why? Barry Dank, emeritus professor of sociology at California State University, said, “Hitler viewed the Jews as a powerful force that was polluting and destroying society.” Genocide was justified because the Nazis were indoctrinated into thinking that the Jews were inhibiting and threatening German society. Because of their belief that Jews were inferior and infectious beings, it seems like they became apathetic to genocide. Their indiffernce became so strong that it led to nauseating conditions in concentration camps, mothers being slashed to death with bayonets after having their children taken from their arms, and people being organized by a number, rather than identified by a name.
Man is a corrupt creature; lies permeate his awareness much faster than truth. But, no one’s going to walk around saying that they believe a lie. However, what you label something justifies what it is in your mind. Abortion advocates believe their lies, calling them truth. It’s like artificially flavored candy. You can call it blue-raspberry...but it’s not. Abortion advocates believe their blue-raspberry lie, calling it truth - lies such as, “The blob of tissue isn’t alive”, or, “you’re not killing anything”. Truth has been flatly redefined, resulting in stealthily disguised lies.
_____________________________
Have you ever been riding in a car on the freeway, knowing you’re moving, but not really paying attention? It doesn’t matter that every second you cover 88 feet of pavement, it doesn’t matter that you’re burning gallons of gasoline, it doesn’t matter that you’re constantly moving further away from your starting point. You’re lulled into a feeling of disinterest, because none of what is happening is affecting you. This slab of pavement doesn’t look any different than what you drove over 10 minutes ago. All you’re thinking about is your destination. Everything feels the same. However, it’s not. You’re wearing down the pavement that you’re driving on, you’re burning the gasoline in your tank, you’re moving further and further away from where you were originally
This analogy of driving a car is an example of how people justify abortion in their minds. People understand murder. People understand what it means to be alive. People understand that when you get into a car and start the engine, you’re burning gasoline. People understand that sixty miles an hour will get you somewhere fast. But as they sit in the car, as they convince themselves that abortion is justified, they don’t care anymore, and they’re lulled into feeling entirely unconcerned.
____________________________
Think about the Holocaust. Six million Jews died innocently. Why? Barry Dank, emeritus professor of sociology at California State University, said, “Hitler viewed the Jews as a powerful force that was polluting and destroying society.” Genocide was justified because the Nazis were indoctrinated into thinking that the Jews were inhibiting and threatening German society. Because of their belief that Jews were inferior and infectious beings, it seems like they became apathetic to genocide. Their indiffernce became so strong that it led to nauseating conditions in concentration camps, mothers being slashed to death with bayonets after having their children taken from their arms, and people being organized by a number, rather than identified by a name.
_____________________________
Ultimately, this feeling of apathy comes from not recognizing truth. The car is burning gasoline, that’s truth. You’re moving at 60 miles per hour, that’s truth. You’re wearing down the pavement, that’s truth. Life begins at conception, that’s truth. Murder is wrong, that’s truth.
(Skipping a bit)
Man is a corrupt creature; lies permeate his awareness much faster than truth. But, no one’s going to walk around saying that they believe a lie. However, what you label something justifies what it is in your mind. Abortion advocates believe their lies, calling them truth. It’s like artificially flavored candy. You can call it blue-raspberry...but it’s not. Abortion advocates believe their blue-raspberry lie, calling it truth - lies such as, “The blob of tissue isn’t alive”, or, “you’re not killing anything”. Truth has been flatly redefined, resulting in stealthily disguised lies.
(Skipping a bit)
Abortionists have ignored and redefined what it means to be human. With every mile they apathetically travel, they wear down the pavement, they burn gasoline. With every mile they apathetically travel, they murder helpless human beings. As they sit in their car succumbing to that feeling of indifference, their sixty mile an hour justification process takes them miles and miles from truth.
______________________________
In the same way the Holocaust murdered six million Jews, abortion has murdered 50 million helpless children. Both were the result of the philosophical and psychological redefinition of the meaning of "human life." Both instances of redefinition resulted in a devaluation of a portion of the human race. The Holocaust ended in 1945. Abortion was legalized in the US in 1973. How did they so quickly forget?
Mar 24, 2010
Peter, John, and Acts 4:13
Acts 4:13
Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus.
For an individual to be used by God doesn't require them to be impressive in human terms. It's not a matter of how to fulfill a calling, it's a matter of who called you. If its God calling you, then you are of no lack, because adequacy is from Him.
2 Corinthians 3:4-6
Such confidence we have through Christ toward God. Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God, who also made us adequate as servants of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
Peter and John claimed their confidence through Christ, not by anything esteemed in human terms. And standing before the rulers and elders of the land... it was enough.
Please understand, this does not mean we shouldn't work towards excellence in everything we do for the sake of Christ. It is a means by which doubt is cast away, and true confidence is gained.
Hebrews 13:5-6
He Himself has said, "I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU," (Deut. 31:6) so that we confidently say, "THE LORD IS MY HELPER, I WILL NOT BE AFRAID. WHAT WILL MAN DO TO ME?" (Psalm 118:6)
Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus.
For an individual to be used by God doesn't require them to be impressive in human terms. It's not a matter of how to fulfill a calling, it's a matter of who called you. If its God calling you, then you are of no lack, because adequacy is from Him.
2 Corinthians 3:4-6
Such confidence we have through Christ toward God. Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God, who also made us adequate as servants of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
Peter and John claimed their confidence through Christ, not by anything esteemed in human terms. And standing before the rulers and elders of the land... it was enough.
Please understand, this does not mean we shouldn't work towards excellence in everything we do for the sake of Christ. It is a means by which doubt is cast away, and true confidence is gained.
Hebrews 13:5-6
He Himself has said, "I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU," (Deut. 31:6) so that we confidently say, "THE LORD IS MY HELPER, I WILL NOT BE AFRAID. WHAT WILL MAN DO TO ME?" (Psalm 118:6)
Mar 16, 2010
If God is Sovereign and Loving...Then Why?
...this is a question that I have asked myself. This is a question I have attempted to explain to my bedroom walls time and time again. This is also a question that I attempted to explain while giving an apologetics card yesterday evening. It's not an easy question, and the answer makes me quite uncomfortable.
If God is so good, why do I hurt? If God is so sovereign and loves us all so much, then why is there evil in the world? If God is so omniscient and omnipotent, then why do I suffer? If God is sovereign and desires perfection, then why did He allow us to fall, and still hold us accountable?
I was explaining the thought process to a friend that night, and I reached the end of my explication and said, "So, it's almost comforting... I don't have to have an answer. But then you look at it and you realize, 'Bummer! I don't have an answer!'"
The basic, underlying question behind this issue is... "If God is so powerful and loving, why does He give Himself the prerogative to allow "bad" things to happen to people?" (such as sin, suffering, and hell)
Romans 9:18-20 (The verses preceding this passage are facinating, by the way)
“So then He has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires. You will say to me then, "Why does He still find fault? For who resists His will?" On the contrary, who are you, O man, who answers back to God? The thing molded will not say to the molder, "Why did you make me like this," will it?
1. God has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires.
2. The human response is, "Well, why?! If God is so loving, why does he allow suffering?"
3. God's response, "Who are you, O man, who answers back to God?"
4. Man's response, "Oh darn."
Tim Keller, a presbyterian pastor, says something that I found quite interesting...
"If you have a God great and transcendent enough to be mad at because he hasn’t stopped evil and suffering in the world, then you have (at the same moment) a God great and transcendent enough to have good reasons for allowing it to continue that you can’t know. Indeed, you can’t have it both ways.”
I would posit that an individual's faith is not where it ought to be when they look at God's actions and distrustfully ask "Why?". That individual has more faith in their judgement of God, than of God's knowledge, wisdom, and faithfulness. Faith is authentic when it looks at God with a sense of submission to His all-knowing, all-powerful, sovereign, loving, gracious nature... and asks, "Why?" with a sense of wonder. This requires realizing that our finitude does not compare to God's infinite nature.
Does this answer make me uncomfortable? Yes. But not uncomfortable with God, necessarily. Rather, I'm uncomfortable with... myself. If I elevate God to His true position in the universe and in my understanding... I am left to stand in wonder and amazement... because rather than deeming God as the irrational one, ...I realize that I'm incapable of understanding.
Only when I realize how much I am not, can I truly realize how great God is.
If God is so good, why do I hurt? If God is so sovereign and loves us all so much, then why is there evil in the world? If God is so omniscient and omnipotent, then why do I suffer? If God is sovereign and desires perfection, then why did He allow us to fall, and still hold us accountable?
I was explaining the thought process to a friend that night, and I reached the end of my explication and said, "So, it's almost comforting... I don't have to have an answer. But then you look at it and you realize, 'Bummer! I don't have an answer!'"
The basic, underlying question behind this issue is... "If God is so powerful and loving, why does He give Himself the prerogative to allow "bad" things to happen to people?" (such as sin, suffering, and hell)
Romans 9:18-20 (The verses preceding this passage are facinating, by the way)
“So then He has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires. You will say to me then, "Why does He still find fault? For who resists His will?" On the contrary, who are you, O man, who answers back to God? The thing molded will not say to the molder, "Why did you make me like this," will it?
1. God has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires.
2. The human response is, "Well, why?! If God is so loving, why does he allow suffering?"
3. God's response, "Who are you, O man, who answers back to God?"
4. Man's response, "Oh darn."
Tim Keller, a presbyterian pastor, says something that I found quite interesting...
"If you have a God great and transcendent enough to be mad at because he hasn’t stopped evil and suffering in the world, then you have (at the same moment) a God great and transcendent enough to have good reasons for allowing it to continue that you can’t know. Indeed, you can’t have it both ways.”
I would posit that an individual's faith is not where it ought to be when they look at God's actions and distrustfully ask "Why?". That individual has more faith in their judgement of God, than of God's knowledge, wisdom, and faithfulness. Faith is authentic when it looks at God with a sense of submission to His all-knowing, all-powerful, sovereign, loving, gracious nature... and asks, "Why?" with a sense of wonder. This requires realizing that our finitude does not compare to God's infinite nature.
Does this answer make me uncomfortable? Yes. But not uncomfortable with God, necessarily. Rather, I'm uncomfortable with... myself. If I elevate God to His true position in the universe and in my understanding... I am left to stand in wonder and amazement... because rather than deeming God as the irrational one, ...I realize that I'm incapable of understanding.
Only when I realize how much I am not, can I truly realize how great God is.
Mar 3, 2010
To Truly be Beautiful...
Girls,
I know we have all heard that true beauty is within. We ought not to wear our beauty, but rather, be it. This issue of true beauty in a young lady is not a "been there and done that" sort of issue. Rather, it's a constant process. Being truly beautiful should not be thought of as an end, but rather, as a compass point.I've been thinking about this a lot lately. Here's what I've concluded...
No matter how much we discover about God, there is always more to know. While I understand that my finite nature cannot parallel God's infinite nature in this manner, the principle is worth emulation. The people that I most respect in my life are the people that I never get to the bottom of. My father is a case in point. No matter how much I get to know him, there is always more about him to know; he constantly surprises me with his knowledge, insight, and wisdom. As a young lady, that is the trait that I want to have. A character that runs deep.
John Stonestreet, the executive director of Summit Ministries, said, "Purity and excellence in your life is never a line, it is a direction." My friends, beauty is not achieved, it is pursued. Beauty is not a finish line, it's a track. This view of beauty has a different perspective, a different dimension, and a different focus. It is hidden so deep that its not always visible to others at first. Why? Because this sort of beauty is cultivated in secret - in your personal studies, in your relationship with God, while you seek the face of your creator, and while you strive to be like Christ and follow His commands.
I'm not trying to imply that we're supposed to hide, or be less transparent. God does not call us to hide our character, but rather to have deep character. I want to be the type of girl who grows where no one can see her. I want to be the type of girl who cares so much about what God thinks, and realizes how great He is, that her pursuit of beauty, excellence, and purity never ends.
God says in 1 Peter 3:3-4...
"Your adornment must not be merely external--braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God."
The phrase, "Let it be the hidden person of the heart" takes on a new meaning when we view beauty as a direction and not an achievement. That hidden person of the heart can continue to grow and deepen as long as we continually pursue that which is precious in the sight of God.
Feb 24, 2010
A College Decision and My Silent To-Do List
“So, Lauren, what are your plans for after high school?” ...oh, the question. Oh, the question I have been asked countless numbers of times all throughout high school, and especially in the past year. For the longest time I have had no answer to that question. “I’m not sure yet.” “I’m still waiting to see.” “Still trying to find some direction in that area.” …have always been my responses. Each time I try and glaze over my internal turmoil with a shy smile and slight shrug like I don’t think that anything is wrong. …and I don’t. …but I do.
The worsening of mental turmoil that I feel in relation to my college decision is directly proportional to the increase in the length of consideration time. As the days pass, and the deadline draws nearer, I find myself becoming more and more restless. I have a lot of options. I have a lot of interests. I have four majors among which I am trying to choose. I can only do two of them at once. Which ones? Which ones…
This decision is like flubber, if you’ve seen the old movie. It is as if the flubber of my college decision starts bouncing at the beginning of the day, and with every bounce from one side of my head to the other, it increases in energy and continues to bounce, until I reach a moment… like tonight. …as I sit alone in the quiet of my room, trying to sort out the next season of my life… and flubber’s going nuts.
I’m not going to pretend I don't constantly battle fear in regards to this decision. I’m not going to pretend that this whole process doesn’t occasionally bring me to tears. I’m not going to pretend that this decision has not concerned me for the last four years, and that time is not rapidly running out. But what I’m also not going to pretend is that there is no hope. I know there is an answer.
I’m one of those types of people who reasonably waits. I can wait until its time to act. I can wait and consider and ponder and analyze, UNTIL… I am out of time. This is my problem. I feel like I am out of time.
However, this is not a simple to-do list item. This item is on, what I call, my silent to-do list. Unnoticed by others, this list sticks around for a very long time, never making any noise in and of itself, but the mere presence of the list screams volumes. However, it is silent. Why? …because it is undetectable to everyone but me. Everyone around me can see when I vacuum the family room, but no one can see when I’m working my college decision issues over and over in my head. This is no ordinary decision.
I wish I had a prompt, victorious, grand, and enlightening closing for this post. But I don’t. I just have me. Lauren Marie, feeling incredibly weak in the hands of her Almighty Creator, trusting in 2 Corinthians 3:5-6, determined to keep working, thinking, and moving forward, and tearing up as she ponders the realization that “He’s been so faithful every other time.”
The worsening of mental turmoil that I feel in relation to my college decision is directly proportional to the increase in the length of consideration time. As the days pass, and the deadline draws nearer, I find myself becoming more and more restless. I have a lot of options. I have a lot of interests. I have four majors among which I am trying to choose. I can only do two of them at once. Which ones? Which ones…
This decision is like flubber, if you’ve seen the old movie. It is as if the flubber of my college decision starts bouncing at the beginning of the day, and with every bounce from one side of my head to the other, it increases in energy and continues to bounce, until I reach a moment… like tonight. …as I sit alone in the quiet of my room, trying to sort out the next season of my life… and flubber’s going nuts.
I’m not going to pretend I don't constantly battle fear in regards to this decision. I’m not going to pretend that this whole process doesn’t occasionally bring me to tears. I’m not going to pretend that this decision has not concerned me for the last four years, and that time is not rapidly running out. But what I’m also not going to pretend is that there is no hope. I know there is an answer.
I’m one of those types of people who reasonably waits. I can wait until its time to act. I can wait and consider and ponder and analyze, UNTIL… I am out of time. This is my problem. I feel like I am out of time.
However, this is not a simple to-do list item. This item is on, what I call, my silent to-do list. Unnoticed by others, this list sticks around for a very long time, never making any noise in and of itself, but the mere presence of the list screams volumes. However, it is silent. Why? …because it is undetectable to everyone but me. Everyone around me can see when I vacuum the family room, but no one can see when I’m working my college decision issues over and over in my head. This is no ordinary decision.
I wish I had a prompt, victorious, grand, and enlightening closing for this post. But I don’t. I just have me. Lauren Marie, feeling incredibly weak in the hands of her Almighty Creator, trusting in 2 Corinthians 3:5-6, determined to keep working, thinking, and moving forward, and tearing up as she ponders the realization that “He’s been so faithful every other time.”
Feb 7, 2010
Subjective Truth Pretends to Fly
I sat at my computer, attempting to focus on writing an essay, but the conversation my younger sisters were having behind me drew my attention away. They were talking about their physical science test they had taken that morning, and specifically about the question having to do with “reference points”. Apparently not very satisfied with their answers, they were exasperatedly complaining about how they knew what a reference point was, but the test had asked them to explain the purpose of a reference point in conjunction with the idea of motion.
I spun around in my desk chair and queried, “Well, you know what a reference point does, right?”
They responded, “Yeah, it’s where the motion started.”
I continued, “Exactly, so the purpose of the reference point is so that you can tell when something is or was in motion. Without a reference point, you could never tell if anything had actually moved or not. Motion can’t be defined without a reference point.”
Watching the light bulb effect in their eyes was undoubtedly priceless. After a little more discussion, we all went back to work. However, I’ve been thinking a lot about that incident since it happened.
We all see reality, we all function within reality, and we all interact with it in our perspectival arena most refer to as “life”. Now, let me introduce a new member of the discussion. Meet Sir Subjectivity. He has been quite busy in our culture as of late, as is evident in the emerging and thriving ideas of our society. His point is that individuals have their own personal interpretations or perspective on issues. This is true on a limited scale, such as preference. I don’t like black licorice, but my Dad loves it. My favorite color is red. Mom’s favorite color is green. Megan loves to swim. The twins like soccer. This realm of subjectivity is related to preferential differences in opinion. However, these are all based on the same “reference point”. The color is red. You need water to swim. You run to play soccer. Black licorice has a specific taste.
Let’s return to our discussion of motion. In order to know that motion exists, there must be a reference point. In order to know that I like the color red, there has to be a definite definition of that color. What happens when you take the reference point out of the picture? …you have no definition of movement. Essentially, it doesn’t exist.
Now, look around. I’m serious, look around. You most likely have stable, non-moving objects near you. You’re actually one of these objects. If one of those objects moves, (including yourself) you will know that it has moved because you’ve intuitively established a reference point.
I now have a question. Doesn’t any definition require a reference point? Any and all definitions or interpretations are founded on these “reference points” that determine their “motion”, or how they are in relation to something that is.
I have another question. What is this reference point to which I am referring?
The reference point is… objective truth.
I have to objectively be here in order for anyone to understand that I moved there. So in defining myself, I am relying to an objective understanding of reality in order for people to understand where I am.
Continuing the idea I started earlier… Sir Subjectivity belongs only within the realm of preference, because the preference is based on reference points, or objective truth. As soon as Sir Subjectivity steps outside of his box, he malfunctions. Many people attempt to apply him to truth. What happens when subjectivity is applied to truth? You lose your reference point.
At this point I want to be very clear. This can’t happen. Please understand, it’s not just that it shouldn’t happen, it can’t happen. Think about it. To define truth in a subjective manner removes the reference point of objectivity, but notice, there is still a definition involved. Definitions cannot be subjective because they have to have reference points.
Some might say, “But my reference points in my definition are subjective, too!” That can’t happen. Take away the reference points of a definition, and you have no communication because your meaning has disappeared. Communicable definitions are based on reference points, take it or leave it.
Individuals who believe in subjective realities or subjective truth are pretending they can fly. While objectivists have their feet planted firmly on the ground, the subjectivists stand beside them, determined that they can fly. But really, what are they doing? Well, first, they’re lying to themselves. Secondly, however, they’re standing on objectivity. Their feet are planted firmly on the ground despite their belief in their ability to fly. For the sake of argument, let’s say they really did grow wings and fly. As they soared off into the clouds of subjectivity, they yell, “See! I told you I could fly!”
The objectivist smiles to himself all the while knowing that their definition of “flying” was dependent on the reality that they were standing on the ground. They have an objective reference point. Objectivity governs any definition, and no matter how hard Sir Subjectivity tries to function outside the box of preferences, there is no escape.
I spun around in my desk chair and queried, “Well, you know what a reference point does, right?”
They responded, “Yeah, it’s where the motion started.”
I continued, “Exactly, so the purpose of the reference point is so that you can tell when something is or was in motion. Without a reference point, you could never tell if anything had actually moved or not. Motion can’t be defined without a reference point.”
Watching the light bulb effect in their eyes was undoubtedly priceless. After a little more discussion, we all went back to work. However, I’ve been thinking a lot about that incident since it happened.
We all see reality, we all function within reality, and we all interact with it in our perspectival arena most refer to as “life”. Now, let me introduce a new member of the discussion. Meet Sir Subjectivity. He has been quite busy in our culture as of late, as is evident in the emerging and thriving ideas of our society. His point is that individuals have their own personal interpretations or perspective on issues. This is true on a limited scale, such as preference. I don’t like black licorice, but my Dad loves it. My favorite color is red. Mom’s favorite color is green. Megan loves to swim. The twins like soccer. This realm of subjectivity is related to preferential differences in opinion. However, these are all based on the same “reference point”. The color is red. You need water to swim. You run to play soccer. Black licorice has a specific taste.
Let’s return to our discussion of motion. In order to know that motion exists, there must be a reference point. In order to know that I like the color red, there has to be a definite definition of that color. What happens when you take the reference point out of the picture? …you have no definition of movement. Essentially, it doesn’t exist.
Now, look around. I’m serious, look around. You most likely have stable, non-moving objects near you. You’re actually one of these objects. If one of those objects moves, (including yourself) you will know that it has moved because you’ve intuitively established a reference point.
I now have a question. Doesn’t any definition require a reference point? Any and all definitions or interpretations are founded on these “reference points” that determine their “motion”, or how they are in relation to something that is.
I have another question. What is this reference point to which I am referring?
The reference point is… objective truth.
I have to objectively be here in order for anyone to understand that I moved there. So in defining myself, I am relying to an objective understanding of reality in order for people to understand where I am.
Continuing the idea I started earlier… Sir Subjectivity belongs only within the realm of preference, because the preference is based on reference points, or objective truth. As soon as Sir Subjectivity steps outside of his box, he malfunctions. Many people attempt to apply him to truth. What happens when subjectivity is applied to truth? You lose your reference point.
At this point I want to be very clear. This can’t happen. Please understand, it’s not just that it shouldn’t happen, it can’t happen. Think about it. To define truth in a subjective manner removes the reference point of objectivity, but notice, there is still a definition involved. Definitions cannot be subjective because they have to have reference points.
Some might say, “But my reference points in my definition are subjective, too!” That can’t happen. Take away the reference points of a definition, and you have no communication because your meaning has disappeared. Communicable definitions are based on reference points, take it or leave it.
Individuals who believe in subjective realities or subjective truth are pretending they can fly. While objectivists have their feet planted firmly on the ground, the subjectivists stand beside them, determined that they can fly. But really, what are they doing? Well, first, they’re lying to themselves. Secondly, however, they’re standing on objectivity. Their feet are planted firmly on the ground despite their belief in their ability to fly. For the sake of argument, let’s say they really did grow wings and fly. As they soared off into the clouds of subjectivity, they yell, “See! I told you I could fly!”
The objectivist smiles to himself all the while knowing that their definition of “flying” was dependent on the reality that they were standing on the ground. They have an objective reference point. Objectivity governs any definition, and no matter how hard Sir Subjectivity tries to function outside the box of preferences, there is no escape.
Feb 4, 2010
John Piper on Faith and Trust
"Your daddy is standing in a swimming pool out a little bit from the edge. You are, let’s say, three years old and standing on the edge of the pool. Daddy holds out his arms to you and says, “Jump, I’ll catch you. I promise.” Now, how do you make your daddy look good at that moment? Answer: trust him and jump. Have faith in him and jump. That makes him look strong and wise and loving. But if you won’t jump, if you shake your head and run away from the edge, you make your daddy look bad. It looks like you are saying, “he can’t catch me” or “he won’t catch me” or “it’s not a good idea to do what he tells me to do.” And all three of those make your dad look bad.
But you don’t want to make God look bad. So you trust him. Then you make him look good–which he really is. And that is what we mean when we say, “Faith glorifies God” or “Faith gives God glory.” It makes him look as good as he really is. So trusting God is really important.
And the harder it seems for him to fulfill his promise, the better he looks when you trust him. Suppose that you are at the deep end of a pool by the diving board. You are four years old and can’t swim, and your daddy is at the other end of the pool. Suddenly a big, mean dog crawls under the fence and shows his teeth and growls at you and starts coming toward you to bite you. You crawl up on the diving board and walk toward the end to get away from him. The dog puts his front paws up on the diving board. Just then, your daddy sees what’s happening and calls out, “Johnny, jump in the water. I’ll get you.”
Now, you have never jumped from one meter high and you can’t swim and your daddy is not underneath you and this water is way over your head. How do you make your daddy look good in that moment? You jump. And almost as soon as you hit the water, you feel his hands under your arms and he treads water holding you safely while someone chases the dog away. Then he takes you to the side of the pool.
We give glory to God when we trust him to do what he has promised to do–especially when all human possibilities are exhausted. Faith glorifies God. That is why God planned for faith to be the way we are justified."
— John Piper
But you don’t want to make God look bad. So you trust him. Then you make him look good–which he really is. And that is what we mean when we say, “Faith glorifies God” or “Faith gives God glory.” It makes him look as good as he really is. So trusting God is really important.
And the harder it seems for him to fulfill his promise, the better he looks when you trust him. Suppose that you are at the deep end of a pool by the diving board. You are four years old and can’t swim, and your daddy is at the other end of the pool. Suddenly a big, mean dog crawls under the fence and shows his teeth and growls at you and starts coming toward you to bite you. You crawl up on the diving board and walk toward the end to get away from him. The dog puts his front paws up on the diving board. Just then, your daddy sees what’s happening and calls out, “Johnny, jump in the water. I’ll get you.”
Now, you have never jumped from one meter high and you can’t swim and your daddy is not underneath you and this water is way over your head. How do you make your daddy look good in that moment? You jump. And almost as soon as you hit the water, you feel his hands under your arms and he treads water holding you safely while someone chases the dog away. Then he takes you to the side of the pool.
We give glory to God when we trust him to do what he has promised to do–especially when all human possibilities are exhausted. Faith glorifies God. That is why God planned for faith to be the way we are justified."
— John Piper
Feb 3, 2010
The Occasional Hilarity of Broken Sequences...
Mom walks out of her bedroom one morning to find (then) seven-year-old Megan meandering about the upstairs.
Mom asks, "Megan, have you had breakfast yet?"
...without missing a beat, Megan replies...
"No I don't know what to wear."
Ha ha!...at which point, the four of us older sisters immediately erupt into giggles and laughter, Megan grins and begins an immediate explanative speech to justify her said response, and Mom looks completely confused until the dots connect. Then she joins the fun.
If it still doesn't make sense, here's the deal. The kitchen is downstairs. Megan didn't want to go downstairs until she was out of her pajamas and dressed for the day. She didn't know what to wear.
Mom: "Megan, have you had breakfast yet?"
Megan: "No, I don't know what to wear."
Mom asks, "Megan, have you had breakfast yet?"
...without missing a beat, Megan replies...
"No I don't know what to wear."
Ha ha!...at which point, the four of us older sisters immediately erupt into giggles and laughter, Megan grins and begins an immediate explanative speech to justify her said response, and Mom looks completely confused until the dots connect. Then she joins the fun.
If it still doesn't make sense, here's the deal. The kitchen is downstairs. Megan didn't want to go downstairs until she was out of her pajamas and dressed for the day. She didn't know what to wear.
Mom: "Megan, have you had breakfast yet?"
Megan: "No, I don't know what to wear."
Feb 2, 2010
Vulnerability
This is mainly to the young ladies that may frequent this blog.
I've been reading "Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood" by Piper and Grudem, and near the beginning, Piper (quoting another writer) lays out some positive characteristics of a woman. Amidst the array of important and amiable qualities, I came across "Vulnerable (emotionally open)".
This surprised me. It wouldn't seem that vulnerability would be a positive characteristic. However, as I thought about it further... being vulnerable doesn't mean you have to be weak. It communicates more of a transparent honesty. It's a "handle with care" sign, really. I'll admit, I'm vulnerable. Do I have a reason to hide it? ...no. Do others need to see it? ...yes.
However, also included in the list of positive characteristics is the quality, "Enduring." ...requiring strength. Strength enough to withstand, strength enough to press on, strength enough to conquer.
There is a balance that must be kept. I have personally seen myself err on both sides of the equasion, and I've seen other young ladies do the same. Either we're overly strong, and therefore, not vulnerable enough. Or, we use the "vulnerable" characteristic as an exuse, avoiding the difficulty it takes to endure. Neither is acceptable.
There's a type of humility that's communicated in vulnerability. However, while vulnerability says, "I'll be honest about where I struggle," endurance says, "I'll press forward, claiming the strength of Christ."
I've been reading "Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood" by Piper and Grudem, and near the beginning, Piper (quoting another writer) lays out some positive characteristics of a woman. Amidst the array of important and amiable qualities, I came across "Vulnerable (emotionally open)".
This surprised me. It wouldn't seem that vulnerability would be a positive characteristic. However, as I thought about it further... being vulnerable doesn't mean you have to be weak. It communicates more of a transparent honesty. It's a "handle with care" sign, really. I'll admit, I'm vulnerable. Do I have a reason to hide it? ...no. Do others need to see it? ...yes.
However, also included in the list of positive characteristics is the quality, "Enduring." ...requiring strength. Strength enough to withstand, strength enough to press on, strength enough to conquer.
There is a balance that must be kept. I have personally seen myself err on both sides of the equasion, and I've seen other young ladies do the same. Either we're overly strong, and therefore, not vulnerable enough. Or, we use the "vulnerable" characteristic as an exuse, avoiding the difficulty it takes to endure. Neither is acceptable.
There's a type of humility that's communicated in vulnerability. However, while vulnerability says, "I'll be honest about where I struggle," endurance says, "I'll press forward, claiming the strength of Christ."
Jan 31, 2010
Tournament Marathon Reflections
I've been sucked into the whirlwind of tournament season. My mother and I have since decided that never again are we going to be stupid enough to attend two tournaments one after another. Three days is not enough time to recover, especially when you're up until at least midnight each night researching. However, at the end of a long two weeks, I can definitely say that I've seen two things. First, my utter inadaquacy, and second, the blessing of improvement.
2 Corinithans 3:5-6
Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from oursleves, but our adequacy is from God, who also made us adequate as servants of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit: for the letter kills, but the Spirit gies life.
1 Corinthians 2:1-5
And when I came to you, brethren, I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testomony of God. For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. I was with you in seakness and in fear and in much trembling, and my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God.
So now, as I reach the end of the day, and the beginning of a long three weeks or so before I head off on another tournament adventure, I'm left with one thought that is worth remembering. ...Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.
I spent the last two weeks honing my persuasive speaking skills, and practicing that by speaking about God's truth, the experiences of my life, and current environmental policy. (Apologetics, Impromptu, and Team Policy Debate) However, God's message does not depend on my ability. Paul didn't come with persuasive words. He came in fear and much trembling. So while I believe that it is important to sharpen my skills as a communicator... that is completely insignificant compared to Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.
Not only that, but Jesus Christ, and Him crucified is the only reason that I am able to improve. I cannot consider anything as coming from myself because my adaquacy is from God. I'm made adaquate, why? ... because I am "a servant of a new covenant"... Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.
At the two tournaments, my debate partner, Eric, and I place fourth out of 45 teams, and forth out of 17 teams. I placed third and fourth in apologetics. I qualified to regionals in all of the events I competed in... at both tournaments. But at the end of the day, I can't say it was me, and I can't say that it means anything when compared to what really matters.
My trophies will collect dust, my medals will be forgotten, and my certificates will get folded and stored, or simply thrown away. No one will remember the results in a week or two. And at this point I have to say, that in light of the awards, I feel more insignificant. In light of the placings, I feel more inadaquate. Yes, the results are a blessing, but they must be realized in the correct light, or else they present a false hope. ...I resolve to know nothing except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.
2 Corinthians 5:14-15
For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died: and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.
2 Corinithans 3:5-6
Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from oursleves, but our adequacy is from God, who also made us adequate as servants of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit: for the letter kills, but the Spirit gies life.
1 Corinthians 2:1-5
And when I came to you, brethren, I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testomony of God. For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. I was with you in seakness and in fear and in much trembling, and my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God.
So now, as I reach the end of the day, and the beginning of a long three weeks or so before I head off on another tournament adventure, I'm left with one thought that is worth remembering. ...Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.
I spent the last two weeks honing my persuasive speaking skills, and practicing that by speaking about God's truth, the experiences of my life, and current environmental policy. (Apologetics, Impromptu, and Team Policy Debate) However, God's message does not depend on my ability. Paul didn't come with persuasive words. He came in fear and much trembling. So while I believe that it is important to sharpen my skills as a communicator... that is completely insignificant compared to Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.
Not only that, but Jesus Christ, and Him crucified is the only reason that I am able to improve. I cannot consider anything as coming from myself because my adaquacy is from God. I'm made adaquate, why? ... because I am "a servant of a new covenant"... Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.
At the two tournaments, my debate partner, Eric, and I place fourth out of 45 teams, and forth out of 17 teams. I placed third and fourth in apologetics. I qualified to regionals in all of the events I competed in... at both tournaments. But at the end of the day, I can't say it was me, and I can't say that it means anything when compared to what really matters.
My trophies will collect dust, my medals will be forgotten, and my certificates will get folded and stored, or simply thrown away. No one will remember the results in a week or two. And at this point I have to say, that in light of the awards, I feel more insignificant. In light of the placings, I feel more inadaquate. Yes, the results are a blessing, but they must be realized in the correct light, or else they present a false hope. ...I resolve to know nothing except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.
2 Corinthians 5:14-15
For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died: and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.
Jan 16, 2010
The Man that Dies with the most Toys... Still Dies.
One of the most amazing things about Jesus life is that He practiced what He preached. (No duh!) But this particular command that He gave to us, I saw in a new light as I was thinking about it recently.
Matthew 6:19-20, "Do not store up for youreslves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where theives break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where theives do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
The Jews of the day thought that their Messiah would come and deliver them from under Roman rule. However, Jesus came not to save the people from a physical oppression, but rather a spiritual oppression. Instead of overcoming their physical enemies, Christ overcame their spiritual enemies.
If Christ simply came to overcome the Romans, that victory would only last on earth. However, Christ's work on the cross stores up treasures in heaven. Through His gift of eternal life that He provides through His death, we are given eternal life. Instead of stimply saving the people from the dangers of oppression of their physical lives, Christ's gift to His people would last for eternity.
Christ Fulfilled His own command through His gift of spiritual Salvation.
Also, another idea was challenging to me. When Christ died, no one understood what He was accomplishing. There was no appreciation in their eyes, no words of encouragement from their lips, but rather the people either didn't understand, or they condemned Him. Does this not parallel Christians storing up treasures in heaven? Oftentimes when we make choices to spend our lives doing those things that will count for eternity, the world doesn't understand why.
The apostle Paul says it best in His letter to Timothy:
“For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. Therefore, do not be afraid of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel…”
- 2 Timothy 1:7-10
Matthew 6:19-20, "Do not store up for youreslves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where theives break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where theives do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
The Jews of the day thought that their Messiah would come and deliver them from under Roman rule. However, Jesus came not to save the people from a physical oppression, but rather a spiritual oppression. Instead of overcoming their physical enemies, Christ overcame their spiritual enemies.
If Christ simply came to overcome the Romans, that victory would only last on earth. However, Christ's work on the cross stores up treasures in heaven. Through His gift of eternal life that He provides through His death, we are given eternal life. Instead of stimply saving the people from the dangers of oppression of their physical lives, Christ's gift to His people would last for eternity.
Christ Fulfilled His own command through His gift of spiritual Salvation.
Also, another idea was challenging to me. When Christ died, no one understood what He was accomplishing. There was no appreciation in their eyes, no words of encouragement from their lips, but rather the people either didn't understand, or they condemned Him. Does this not parallel Christians storing up treasures in heaven? Oftentimes when we make choices to spend our lives doing those things that will count for eternity, the world doesn't understand why.
The apostle Paul says it best in His letter to Timothy:
“For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. Therefore, do not be afraid of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel…”
- 2 Timothy 1:7-10
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