Ah, the joys of Abilene. Today: high in the 80s. Tomorrow: high in the 50s. That has nothing to do with this post...
I'm currently reading a book called The Sacredness of Questioning Everything by David Dark. I highly recommend this book. The basic premise of the book is that, as Christians, we should be people who question. This is not really a new idea. A good friend of mine named Paul once said something similar: "Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil." (1 Thess. 5:21-22)
It is this time of year that reminds me how crucial it is to live in skeptical holiness (a term I coined which I hope catches on). We accept most of what we see and hear because we are so accepted. We live in a time and place where we can put up displays of the birth of our Savior and play songs about him with only a little backlash. We blend our faith with our culture to the point that it gets hard to pull the two apart.
Christmas is the prime example of this mixing. It is the season of giving. The Salvation Army ramps up its efforts, charitable organizations launch donation drives, and churches step up their game to keep up with the world. It is also the time of year when US spending spikes 80-100 billion dollars.
We swallow some pretty big disparities.
One point that is made in the book is that we have to question the small things as well as the large, because the big things need to be looked at but change happens in the small.
So what?
It's time to put back on our glasses. The world has convinced us that it is backward or old-fashioned to screen things through our faith, but faith is the way we see the world. Isn't it time we owned it?
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Land of the Free
An odd label given
to a land
of slaves.
We are chained
to our schedules.
We are shackled
to our phones.
Whipped constantly
by the media,
and punished
by our fads.
We buy our way
into prisons
of power
of greed
of pleasure.
We embrace our freedom
in our ability
to have our choice
of so many
masters.
Land of the lock and key,
and the home of the slave.
to a land
of slaves.
We are chained
to our schedules.
We are shackled
to our phones.
Whipped constantly
by the media,
and punished
by our fads.
We buy our way
into prisons
of power
of greed
of pleasure.
We embrace our freedom
in our ability
to have our choice
of so many
masters.
Land of the lock and key,
and the home of the slave.
Building Forts
He’s building a fort
in his bedroom today
and no one else can come in.
It's his very own.
Now, leave him alone.
He’s going in it to stay.
He’s building a fort
right under his bed
and he’s never coming back out.
It's nice and cozy.
Go away, nosy.
It's only for him, like he said.
He’s building a fort
inside of his chest
where no one but he can see.
Because he’s too old
for forts, so he’s told,
hiding his heart seems best.
in his bedroom today
and no one else can come in.
It's his very own.
Now, leave him alone.
He’s going in it to stay.
He’s building a fort
right under his bed
and he’s never coming back out.
It's nice and cozy.
Go away, nosy.
It's only for him, like he said.
He’s building a fort
inside of his chest
where no one but he can see.
Because he’s too old
for forts, so he’s told,
hiding his heart seems best.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
A Year Without October
Well, I have proven once again that I'm not cut out for the world of high stakes, professional blogging. Apparently (as far as my blog shows), nothing happened in the month of October. The truth is, of course, too much happened. This is one of the odd and sad quirks of the lifestyles we lead these days: the busier we are, the less we talk about it.
Obviously, more time spent doing is less time spent talking. Have you ever noticed what happens when we do this, though? We start to make more mistakes. We become less satisfied. Our decisions make less sense to those around us and even to us.
Why?
We stop talking.
All it takes for me to reconsider a really pointless or stupid course of action is for one trusted friend to say, "Matt, you're being an idiot." Once those prophetic words call my attention back to reality, it is much easier for me to think clearly and get back on the right track. This is true of everything from deciding what to eat to decisions about the future, or even thoughts about God.
All judgments on life, love, and faith are better made by more than one brain. Don't let busy-ness turn into stupidity. Never let scheduling take the place of thinking. And finally, don't stop talking. It's much harder to tell just how skewed our vision has become until we actually say it out loud.
Blessings,
Matt
Obviously, more time spent doing is less time spent talking. Have you ever noticed what happens when we do this, though? We start to make more mistakes. We become less satisfied. Our decisions make less sense to those around us and even to us.
Why?
We stop talking.
All it takes for me to reconsider a really pointless or stupid course of action is for one trusted friend to say, "Matt, you're being an idiot." Once those prophetic words call my attention back to reality, it is much easier for me to think clearly and get back on the right track. This is true of everything from deciding what to eat to decisions about the future, or even thoughts about God.
All judgments on life, love, and faith are better made by more than one brain. Don't let busy-ness turn into stupidity. Never let scheduling take the place of thinking. And finally, don't stop talking. It's much harder to tell just how skewed our vision has become until we actually say it out loud.
Blessings,
Matt
Monday, September 27, 2010
The Groundskeeper
There once was a man who lived in a small house by the park in a quaint little town. Each day he would get up early, get dressed, and begin his walk through the park. As he walked, he would pick up trash and make sure the sidewalks were clear of garbage and debris. All the people of the town knew him because of the service he freely gave to them on his daily walk.
When one of the swings in the park broke, the man returned to the park during the evening and worked late into the night to repair it. Everyone knew that if someone got hurt on the jungle gym or scraped a knee on the cement the man would have a bandage or an ice pack ready in minutes. They trusted and loved the man. The park was a warm and welcoming place where all felt safe and joyful.
One day the man announced that he would be leaving for a while. The people of the town asked him when he would be back, but he simply told them that he couldn’t say. Then he was gone.
For a while the people continued to look for him, not quite ready accept his absence since he had become such a significant part of their lives. The people often spoke of him and remembered the times that he had helped them personally and simply reminisced about his daily walks through the beautiful park.
Meanwhile the park grew dirtier.
Trash was left on the ground. The sidewalk became cluttered and filthy. The merry-go-round broke and was left that way.
After a while, the people stopped going to the park. What had once been a beautiful place filled with love had become a dark and desolate place. Some of the people spoke of the “good old days” when the man had cared for the park and life was as it should be. Others grew angry with him, resenting the fact that he had gone and neglected the park. Still others would wait and watch the park, imagining what it would be like when the man returned.
As the people stayed away from the park longer and longer, they grew distant from each other. And so they stay behind closed doors, away from the park, and talk about the man who taught them so much and do nothing but wait for his return.
When one of the swings in the park broke, the man returned to the park during the evening and worked late into the night to repair it. Everyone knew that if someone got hurt on the jungle gym or scraped a knee on the cement the man would have a bandage or an ice pack ready in minutes. They trusted and loved the man. The park was a warm and welcoming place where all felt safe and joyful.
One day the man announced that he would be leaving for a while. The people of the town asked him when he would be back, but he simply told them that he couldn’t say. Then he was gone.
For a while the people continued to look for him, not quite ready accept his absence since he had become such a significant part of their lives. The people often spoke of him and remembered the times that he had helped them personally and simply reminisced about his daily walks through the beautiful park.
Meanwhile the park grew dirtier.
Trash was left on the ground. The sidewalk became cluttered and filthy. The merry-go-round broke and was left that way.
After a while, the people stopped going to the park. What had once been a beautiful place filled with love had become a dark and desolate place. Some of the people spoke of the “good old days” when the man had cared for the park and life was as it should be. Others grew angry with him, resenting the fact that he had gone and neglected the park. Still others would wait and watch the park, imagining what it would be like when the man returned.
As the people stayed away from the park longer and longer, they grew distant from each other. And so they stay behind closed doors, away from the park, and talk about the man who taught them so much and do nothing but wait for his return.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Wise and Foolish
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; and it fell with a great crash. The man was not fearful or worried, for he knew his home was not bound up in a building but in the family of God. Yet, when he sought help from his brothers and sisters they saw not his need, but the time and effort that would be required of them. Though they all had houses on the rock, the doors were shut. The man left the rock and found a spot on the beach. There he built a shelter on the sand. Those on the rock looked down and ridiculed his poor decision, watching and waiting for the storm that would wash him away. Yet, the man was content. For he found a new family among those huddled on the beach. Each knew the suffering of the other and all shared what shelter there was to be found. He found it was better to be among a family of fools on the sand than alone with a house on the rock."
When he finished saying these things, the crowd was outraged. They went away frustrated, for they had come to find safety and comfort, but were given sand instead.
When he finished saying these things, the crowd was outraged. They went away frustrated, for they had come to find safety and comfort, but were given sand instead.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
After the Fall
So the man and his wife walked away from the Garden, heads hung low in shame. Suddenly they came upon a box. Taped to the top of the box was a simple note that said, “On second thought, animal skins are not quite enough. –God”
They opened the box cautiously.
Inside were the most beautiful clothes they had ever seen (though that wasn’t saying much for these ex-nudists). Adam gathered his outfit: pants, shirt, jacket, tie, and nice polished shoes with argyle socks. Eve took up her dress, necklace, and stylish pumps.
They quickly changed into their new garments, after struggling with how exactly to put them on for a few moments.
They looked at each other.
They were amazed by what they saw.
Not only was their shame still covered, but they looked wonderful. They were even attracted to each other. Adam thought about these new clothes and said to Eve, “Now we are worthy. God has given us these clothes so we can be with Him again.”
Eve replied, “That must be it. We no longer feel ashamed and we look important enough to be in the presence of God. We deserve a relationship with Him now.”
Eve reached out and grabbed her husband’s hand. Together they walked on, looking for God so they could show Him that they were properly dressed to be with Him. Their shame was covered and their clothing suggested they were perfect.
From the tree that was shading the box the serpent slithered. He picked up the note that he had written from the box. Laughing to himself, he watched as the man and woman walked. He could rest a while, knowing that they were now further than ever from God.
They opened the box cautiously.
Inside were the most beautiful clothes they had ever seen (though that wasn’t saying much for these ex-nudists). Adam gathered his outfit: pants, shirt, jacket, tie, and nice polished shoes with argyle socks. Eve took up her dress, necklace, and stylish pumps.
They quickly changed into their new garments, after struggling with how exactly to put them on for a few moments.
They looked at each other.
They were amazed by what they saw.
Not only was their shame still covered, but they looked wonderful. They were even attracted to each other. Adam thought about these new clothes and said to Eve, “Now we are worthy. God has given us these clothes so we can be with Him again.”
Eve replied, “That must be it. We no longer feel ashamed and we look important enough to be in the presence of God. We deserve a relationship with Him now.”
Eve reached out and grabbed her husband’s hand. Together they walked on, looking for God so they could show Him that they were properly dressed to be with Him. Their shame was covered and their clothing suggested they were perfect.
From the tree that was shading the box the serpent slithered. He picked up the note that he had written from the box. Laughing to himself, he watched as the man and woman walked. He could rest a while, knowing that they were now further than ever from God.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Finding Sabbath
As always, school is off at a brisk jog. It isn't sprinting yet, but give it time. Over the past year I have become a big believer in the Sabbath. Not necessarily the Hebrew Sabbath, but just the practice of slowing down from time to time to remember and spend time with God.
Unfortunately I am an American...
We live in a culture that tells us, "If you're not busy, you're lazy."
The sad part is we buy it.
I bought it.
The things that occupy my time are good and all important to me. My time is stretched and pulled by my youth internship, Seekers, and school. That is why I am searching for Sabbath.
Since I cannot and will not drop any of these things that I love, I have to keep my eyes open to the opportunities to stop and rest. I still want to know God and He wants to know me. Finding the time to do that will be an adventure.
I am excited about all the blessings in store for this semester. I am working with a youth group that I love, I am in a drama ministry that has become my family, and I am learning so much about God and my work.
I just have to remember to slow down.
Unfortunately I am an American...
We live in a culture that tells us, "If you're not busy, you're lazy."
The sad part is we buy it.
I bought it.
The things that occupy my time are good and all important to me. My time is stretched and pulled by my youth internship, Seekers, and school. That is why I am searching for Sabbath.
Since I cannot and will not drop any of these things that I love, I have to keep my eyes open to the opportunities to stop and rest. I still want to know God and He wants to know me. Finding the time to do that will be an adventure.
I am excited about all the blessings in store for this semester. I am working with a youth group that I love, I am in a drama ministry that has become my family, and I am learning so much about God and my work.
I just have to remember to slow down.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
The Have-Nots
I have been thinking a lot about the way we see the world. We separate everything into neat categories.
There are the rich and the poor,
the popular and the unpopular,
the good and the bad,
the beautiful and the hideous.
There are the Haves and the Have-Nots.
Unfortunately, we let these distinctions infiltrate our faith. We see people outside of Christianity as those without faith,
without hope,
without God.
We forget that faith is a part of being human. Whatever we feel to be right, whatever we cling to, whatever we hold dear is our faith.
We neglect the fact that life is not possible without hope. Whatever gets us out of bed, whatever makes us work, whatever we long to see is our hope.
But most importantly, we forget that God is everywhere, in everything, and with everyone.
When it comes to God, there are no Have-Nots. There is no group that is outside of God's love. Therefore, there is no group that should be outside of our love.
Our job is not to implant faith, our task is not to create hope, and our duty is not to deliver God. Each of these actions is beyond our grasp.
But love is greater than hope and faith, as you've heard before. Not only is it greater, but it is what is within our grasp.
We cannot use faith and hope on others. We can love them.
In a world where everyone has the love of God, will we continue to withhold our own?
There are the rich and the poor,
the popular and the unpopular,
the good and the bad,
the beautiful and the hideous.
There are the Haves and the Have-Nots.
Unfortunately, we let these distinctions infiltrate our faith. We see people outside of Christianity as those without faith,
without hope,
without God.
We forget that faith is a part of being human. Whatever we feel to be right, whatever we cling to, whatever we hold dear is our faith.
We neglect the fact that life is not possible without hope. Whatever gets us out of bed, whatever makes us work, whatever we long to see is our hope.
But most importantly, we forget that God is everywhere, in everything, and with everyone.
When it comes to God, there are no Have-Nots. There is no group that is outside of God's love. Therefore, there is no group that should be outside of our love.
Our job is not to implant faith, our task is not to create hope, and our duty is not to deliver God. Each of these actions is beyond our grasp.
But love is greater than hope and faith, as you've heard before. Not only is it greater, but it is what is within our grasp.
We cannot use faith and hope on others. We can love them.
In a world where everyone has the love of God, will we continue to withhold our own?
Monday, August 2, 2010
Spit Shine
Today marks the end of an era. I bought a new watch.
For those of you who are not familiar with my bond with my late timepiece, I will share the history of that watch.
I received it as my first "real" (analog) watch when I was in the 6th grade. It has been on my wrist almost every moment since that day. That is why I have such a tan-line on my wrist. It suffered dents and cracks for almost 9 years. Today it took its last hit from a basketball before it finally gave up.
I started thinking about that watch.
How quickly do we throw things away when they no longer look "good"?
It had been years since that watch looked good.
But it still ticked.
It still stayed on my wrist.
It still worked.
We so easily forget that things continue to serve their purpose long after aesthetics have faded. We figure that if something doesn't look pristine then it isn't working the way it's supposed to work.
We treat ourselves the same way.
We try to keep ourselves looking nice and put-together so that we appear to be doing everything right. We cover up our flaws to give the appearance of perfect actions. We spit-shine our souls.
But spit-shine still depends on spit.
Whatever we do, we're going to get dirty. We're going to get battered. We're going to be broken.
But God still works.
Where we are filthy, he shines. Where we are cracked, he makes whole. Where we fall apart, he remains the same.
Do not let the bruises and cuts of this life fool you into thinking you are useless. Let God show you that your scars make you something more.
When we are at our most broken, he shows just how whole we can be.
For those of you who are not familiar with my bond with my late timepiece, I will share the history of that watch.
I received it as my first "real" (analog) watch when I was in the 6th grade. It has been on my wrist almost every moment since that day. That is why I have such a tan-line on my wrist. It suffered dents and cracks for almost 9 years. Today it took its last hit from a basketball before it finally gave up.
I started thinking about that watch.
How quickly do we throw things away when they no longer look "good"?
It had been years since that watch looked good.
But it still ticked.
It still stayed on my wrist.
It still worked.
We so easily forget that things continue to serve their purpose long after aesthetics have faded. We figure that if something doesn't look pristine then it isn't working the way it's supposed to work.
We treat ourselves the same way.
We try to keep ourselves looking nice and put-together so that we appear to be doing everything right. We cover up our flaws to give the appearance of perfect actions. We spit-shine our souls.
But spit-shine still depends on spit.
Whatever we do, we're going to get dirty. We're going to get battered. We're going to be broken.
But God still works.
Where we are filthy, he shines. Where we are cracked, he makes whole. Where we fall apart, he remains the same.
Do not let the bruises and cuts of this life fool you into thinking you are useless. Let God show you that your scars make you something more.
When we are at our most broken, he shows just how whole we can be.
Friday, July 16, 2010
The Broken Heart of God
He sat on a hill,
Watching as the city
shut down.
Traffic lights stop their
green
yellow
red
exchange
and begin another night
of blinking.
He can't get rid of
the sorrow.
His heart aches for the broken,
the homeless,
the beaten,
the lost...
He thinks of the girl
who knows no father's love.
He thinks of the boy
who chases cocaine's release.
He cries out at God in his soul,
"What are you going to do?
Why are you silent?
How can you watch this?"
No voice booms from the sky,
no burning bush,
no still whisper...
Just a heartbreak.
Deep and immense.
He feels the heart of God.
A quiet voice in his soul speaks,
"Don't you think I know?
Don't I feel the pain of my children?
This is my heartache.
Can you bear it?"
The man buckles under the weight,
the pressure,
the pain
of the broken heart of God.
As he sobs he hears his voice
echoing back,
his soul questioning itself.
"What are you going to do?
Why are you silent?
How can you watch this?"
Watching as the city
shut down.
Traffic lights stop their
green
yellow
red
exchange
and begin another night
of blinking.
He can't get rid of
the sorrow.
His heart aches for the broken,
the homeless,
the beaten,
the lost...
He thinks of the girl
who knows no father's love.
He thinks of the boy
who chases cocaine's release.
He cries out at God in his soul,
"What are you going to do?
Why are you silent?
How can you watch this?"
No voice booms from the sky,
no burning bush,
no still whisper...
Just a heartbreak.
Deep and immense.
He feels the heart of God.
A quiet voice in his soul speaks,
"Don't you think I know?
Don't I feel the pain of my children?
This is my heartache.
Can you bear it?"
The man buckles under the weight,
the pressure,
the pain
of the broken heart of God.
As he sobs he hears his voice
echoing back,
his soul questioning itself.
"What are you going to do?
Why are you silent?
How can you watch this?"
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Summer Book Reviews
Well, in addition to teaching, planning/leading trips, going to devos, planning youth parties, and all the other crazy adventures of a youth internship, I have found time in the summer to consume a few books. A quick list:
Searching for God Knows What- Donald Miller
Your First Two Years in Youth Ministry- Doug Fields
Jesus Wants to Save Christians (Audio)- Rob Bell and Don Golden
Velvet Elvis (Audio)- Rob Bell
Contemplative Youth Ministry- Mark Yaconelli
180 More: Extraordinary Poems for Every Day- Billy Collins
Nevada- Joshua Porter
The Know-It-All- A. J. Jacobs
Che: The Diaries of Ernesto Che Guevara- Ernesto Guevara
I've done pretty well, I think, considering the busy-ness of the summer. Now, I'll give my thoughts...
Searching for God Knows What: An interesting book. I won't say that it was my favorite. The author did share a lot of his own personal struggle with faith, but his discussion of stories from the Bible was a bit limited. I'd still recommend it as a good read. It will provoke some thought.
Your First Two Years in Youth Ministry: This book was given to me by Evan (the Bossman). Despite the author being a goober, it was a helpful book. Since I am not a full time minister, a lot of the advice wasn't immediately applicable. I am glad to have been introduced to some of the various stresses and issues of early youth ministry so that I can look ahead.
Jesus Wants to Save Christians and Velvet Elvis: I lump these together because Rob Bell's work tends to have the same effect all the time and it is never old. He takes passages of scripture that I know and applies a new and fascinating meaning to them. He is also not afraid to challenge those parts of our faith that seem to have been hijacked by our culture and twisted away from the original intent of Jesus. He always leaves me analyzing my faith and stretching further and deeper.
Contemplative Youth Ministry: Another Evan pick. I loved this book. My dad's reaction to the title is what makes this book so great. I told him the name of the book and he replied, "Isn't that an oxymoron?" He was joking, of course. However, many people DO view youth ministry that way and that was one of the main thrusts of this book. The author seeks to see youth become more than Christian teens, he wants to guide them to be true Christ-followers. Thus, the job of a youth minister is not to baby-sit and entertain, but to try to practice the presence of Christ that others might come to know him fully.
180 More: Extraordinary Poems for Every Day: Just a book of poetry compiled by my favorite poet. I haven't been writing as much poetry as I used to write, but reading it has given me a lot to enjoy and to learn. Now, I have not actually read each poem in the book yet, but I have spent enough time with it for it to earn a place in this entry.
Nevada: A strange, somewhat gruesome, and very thought provoking book. The book is written as a piecing together of many different journal entries, news reports, police logs, etc. Some of the writings are from the perspective of mentally challenged or diseased people. The author does a great job of capturing a unique identity in each entry. The book itself is about Satan coming to earth and leading a revolution. He gives many speeches that expose many of the attitudes and behaviors of our culture that go against God's purpose for our lives. A warning: this book contains very graphic and wicked violence.
The Know-It-All: The best book I've read since The Year of Living Biblically, written by the same author. This book is the record of his experience reading through the entire Encyclopaedia Britannica. A. J. Jacobs is hilarious and insightful. He is socially awkward and not afraid to show it. His failed attempts to apply his newfound knowledge remind me of the Friends episode where Joey buys the V section of the encyclopaedia and tries to bring up Mt. Vesuvius in conversation. Also, he peppers the book with enough random facts that you feel like you've joined him for part of the work.
Che: The Diaries of Ernesto Che Guevara: Don't worry, I'm not turning into one of those Manifesto-quoting, Communism supporting, Che-shirt wearing weirdos. I watched The Motorcycle Diaries with some friends a few weeks ago and got interested in this controversial figure of history. After reading these excerpts from his diaries, I cannot say that I admire him more or less. The writing consisted of a lot of description of battles and tactical decisions with not much mention of motivation and beliefs. I can admire his decision to leave behind studying medicine to devote himself to a cause he believed in. He was not afraid to stand up (even in the UN) and declare what he believed. I will not say that I agree completely with his ideals and I will never say I agree with his methods (or the methods of those who opposed him), but I can admire the loyalty of such a charismatic leader to his cause.
It has been a good reading summer, but I think my brain needs a nice non-thought-provoking fiction.
Searching for God Knows What- Donald Miller
Your First Two Years in Youth Ministry- Doug Fields
Jesus Wants to Save Christians (Audio)- Rob Bell and Don Golden
Velvet Elvis (Audio)- Rob Bell
Contemplative Youth Ministry- Mark Yaconelli
180 More: Extraordinary Poems for Every Day- Billy Collins
Nevada- Joshua Porter
The Know-It-All- A. J. Jacobs
Che: The Diaries of Ernesto Che Guevara- Ernesto Guevara
I've done pretty well, I think, considering the busy-ness of the summer. Now, I'll give my thoughts...
Searching for God Knows What: An interesting book. I won't say that it was my favorite. The author did share a lot of his own personal struggle with faith, but his discussion of stories from the Bible was a bit limited. I'd still recommend it as a good read. It will provoke some thought.
Your First Two Years in Youth Ministry: This book was given to me by Evan (the Bossman). Despite the author being a goober, it was a helpful book. Since I am not a full time minister, a lot of the advice wasn't immediately applicable. I am glad to have been introduced to some of the various stresses and issues of early youth ministry so that I can look ahead.
Jesus Wants to Save Christians and Velvet Elvis: I lump these together because Rob Bell's work tends to have the same effect all the time and it is never old. He takes passages of scripture that I know and applies a new and fascinating meaning to them. He is also not afraid to challenge those parts of our faith that seem to have been hijacked by our culture and twisted away from the original intent of Jesus. He always leaves me analyzing my faith and stretching further and deeper.
Contemplative Youth Ministry: Another Evan pick. I loved this book. My dad's reaction to the title is what makes this book so great. I told him the name of the book and he replied, "Isn't that an oxymoron?" He was joking, of course. However, many people DO view youth ministry that way and that was one of the main thrusts of this book. The author seeks to see youth become more than Christian teens, he wants to guide them to be true Christ-followers. Thus, the job of a youth minister is not to baby-sit and entertain, but to try to practice the presence of Christ that others might come to know him fully.
180 More: Extraordinary Poems for Every Day: Just a book of poetry compiled by my favorite poet. I haven't been writing as much poetry as I used to write, but reading it has given me a lot to enjoy and to learn. Now, I have not actually read each poem in the book yet, but I have spent enough time with it for it to earn a place in this entry.
Nevada: A strange, somewhat gruesome, and very thought provoking book. The book is written as a piecing together of many different journal entries, news reports, police logs, etc. Some of the writings are from the perspective of mentally challenged or diseased people. The author does a great job of capturing a unique identity in each entry. The book itself is about Satan coming to earth and leading a revolution. He gives many speeches that expose many of the attitudes and behaviors of our culture that go against God's purpose for our lives. A warning: this book contains very graphic and wicked violence.
The Know-It-All: The best book I've read since The Year of Living Biblically, written by the same author. This book is the record of his experience reading through the entire Encyclopaedia Britannica. A. J. Jacobs is hilarious and insightful. He is socially awkward and not afraid to show it. His failed attempts to apply his newfound knowledge remind me of the Friends episode where Joey buys the V section of the encyclopaedia and tries to bring up Mt. Vesuvius in conversation. Also, he peppers the book with enough random facts that you feel like you've joined him for part of the work.
Che: The Diaries of Ernesto Che Guevara: Don't worry, I'm not turning into one of those Manifesto-quoting, Communism supporting, Che-shirt wearing weirdos. I watched The Motorcycle Diaries with some friends a few weeks ago and got interested in this controversial figure of history. After reading these excerpts from his diaries, I cannot say that I admire him more or less. The writing consisted of a lot of description of battles and tactical decisions with not much mention of motivation and beliefs. I can admire his decision to leave behind studying medicine to devote himself to a cause he believed in. He was not afraid to stand up (even in the UN) and declare what he believed. I will not say that I agree completely with his ideals and I will never say I agree with his methods (or the methods of those who opposed him), but I can admire the loyalty of such a charismatic leader to his cause.
It has been a good reading summer, but I think my brain needs a nice non-thought-provoking fiction.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Leave No Pterodactyls
One of the mottos of Wilderness Trek is “Leave No Trace”. During orientation before our week of camping and mountain climbing, one of the guides was talking about this motto. She asked if we knew what LNT stood for and gave us the hint that it was not “Leave No Pterodactyls”. I guess she didn’t do so well on her tough spelling tests in the dinosaur unit at school as a kid.
Anyway, I had a lot of opportunities to think about that motto throughout the week. The idea is to make it seem as if no one had ever been on the trail that week. It’s not such an easy job. For a group of twenty people to go anyone unnoticed would be difficult, but especially when you are headed into an area where only animals live. There’s bound to be a trace, but we try.
As one of the men with us pointed out, our lives are supposed to be the opposite. The people we
encounter are supposed to feel God.
But it’s so easy to go unnoticed.
Just as it’s easy to pull up some grass and drop a candy wrapper on the mountain, it’s so simple to pass through the world without disturbing anything.
It’s easy to be quiet.
It’s easy to blend.
However, our volume has the same effect in both cases. The whole mountain of animals knew where we were simply by our laughing and singing (and groaning in pain). Yet, the world only notices less of
God the louder we shout.
It’s easy to be quiet.
It’s also easy to scream.
What’s hard is letting the world see you for all that you are.
What’s hard is being broken for the sake of the broken.
What’s hard is letting God leave a trace.
So the time has come for each of us to stop covering up the trail that He blazes. Let the rocks do the crying out. Our job is not to shout, but to come down off the mountain and let God’s love do the talking.
Anyway, I had a lot of opportunities to think about that motto throughout the week. The idea is to make it seem as if no one had ever been on the trail that week. It’s not such an easy job. For a group of twenty people to go anyone unnoticed would be difficult, but especially when you are headed into an area where only animals live. There’s bound to be a trace, but we try.
As one of the men with us pointed out, our lives are supposed to be the opposite. The people we
encounter are supposed to feel God.
But it’s so easy to go unnoticed.
Just as it’s easy to pull up some grass and drop a candy wrapper on the mountain, it’s so simple to pass through the world without disturbing anything.
It’s easy to be quiet.
It’s easy to blend.
However, our volume has the same effect in both cases. The whole mountain of animals knew where we were simply by our laughing and singing (and groaning in pain). Yet, the world only notices less of
God the louder we shout.
It’s easy to be quiet.
It’s also easy to scream.
What’s hard is letting the world see you for all that you are.
What’s hard is being broken for the sake of the broken.
What’s hard is letting God leave a trace.
So the time has come for each of us to stop covering up the trail that He blazes. Let the rocks do the crying out. Our job is not to shout, but to come down off the mountain and let God’s love do the talking.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Life Update
Well, I figure it's about time for a simple post about life.
I am sitting in my host home (aka The Vatican. The people I am staying with are the Popes...get it?) watching some World Cup soccer and just thinking about how great life is right now.
I have been working with the Hillcrest Youth Group since late March and it has been a tremendous blessing. It is such an awesome experience to be able to teach, worship, and simply hang out with such a great bunch of kids.
I am about to leave this Sunday for two trips back-to-back. I will be going with a Middle School group of about 20 up to Camp Champion at LCU this coming week. On Friday morning I will be picked up in Lubbock by a High School group heading to Colorado for Trek. I am going to be one tired youth intern when we return on July 2nd. Luckily things will slow down a little after that, but it will also be July! July? That's so close to the end of the summer. The other interns will have their last day on August 11 (Happy Birthday to me, right?). This summer is flying by.
God has been teaching me a lot of things about youth ministry, relationships, and myself. I have developed a greater passion for teaching and learned a lot more about how to have a little fun instead of diving too deep too quickly (a fault of mine).
Well, I really need to finish packing for this crazy two-week adventure.
Until next time, may God gently remind you that you will always be learning. May your heart be open to the possibility of change. May you continuously be amazed by the hearts of those around you as you catch glimpses of Christ through their lives.
Blessings,
Matt
I am sitting in my host home (aka The Vatican. The people I am staying with are the Popes...get it?) watching some World Cup soccer and just thinking about how great life is right now.
I have been working with the Hillcrest Youth Group since late March and it has been a tremendous blessing. It is such an awesome experience to be able to teach, worship, and simply hang out with such a great bunch of kids.
I am about to leave this Sunday for two trips back-to-back. I will be going with a Middle School group of about 20 up to Camp Champion at LCU this coming week. On Friday morning I will be picked up in Lubbock by a High School group heading to Colorado for Trek. I am going to be one tired youth intern when we return on July 2nd. Luckily things will slow down a little after that, but it will also be July! July? That's so close to the end of the summer. The other interns will have their last day on August 11 (Happy Birthday to me, right?). This summer is flying by.
God has been teaching me a lot of things about youth ministry, relationships, and myself. I have developed a greater passion for teaching and learned a lot more about how to have a little fun instead of diving too deep too quickly (a fault of mine).
Well, I really need to finish packing for this crazy two-week adventure.
Until next time, may God gently remind you that you will always be learning. May your heart be open to the possibility of change. May you continuously be amazed by the hearts of those around you as you catch glimpses of Christ through their lives.
Blessings,
Matt
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Tumbleweed
Here's another Facebook double dip for your enjoyment:
I will not simply be a tumbleweed.
Can you name the plants that become tumbleweeds? You nerds who can just be quiet for now. Now, think about this sad fact of the existence of tumbleweeds. They remain completely unknown and irrelevant until they die and then they are regarded as having value and interest.
I am not talking about making a name for myself.
I am not talking about being the best or the brightest.
I am talking about living.
When I think back on my activities this past week, month, or year I feel that I spent the majority of my time dead. Doing nothing except waiting for the day that I dry up and begin my bounding, rolling journey as a ghost town attraction and occasional Abilene entertainment. In short, waiting to be a tumbleweed.
Don’t get me wrong. Being a tumbleweed is the inevitable end. We are destined to reach that state of rolling excitement, detached from the earth and thrust into a new life so full of energy and change. I look forward to it.
But…
Every tumbleweed was a plant once. Every plant was created for a reason. The tumbling demise of these plants, while much greater than life in the ground, is not the reason.
And so I will live today as a plant. I will make the most of this day. I will grow and I will stand.
Eventually I will tumble from this earth. Until then, there’s much to do.
I will not simply be a tumbleweed.
Can you name the plants that become tumbleweeds? You nerds who can just be quiet for now. Now, think about this sad fact of the existence of tumbleweeds. They remain completely unknown and irrelevant until they die and then they are regarded as having value and interest.
I am not talking about making a name for myself.
I am not talking about being the best or the brightest.
I am talking about living.
When I think back on my activities this past week, month, or year I feel that I spent the majority of my time dead. Doing nothing except waiting for the day that I dry up and begin my bounding, rolling journey as a ghost town attraction and occasional Abilene entertainment. In short, waiting to be a tumbleweed.
Don’t get me wrong. Being a tumbleweed is the inevitable end. We are destined to reach that state of rolling excitement, detached from the earth and thrust into a new life so full of energy and change. I look forward to it.
But…
Every tumbleweed was a plant once. Every plant was created for a reason. The tumbling demise of these plants, while much greater than life in the ground, is not the reason.
And so I will live today as a plant. I will make the most of this day. I will grow and I will stand.
Eventually I will tumble from this earth. Until then, there’s much to do.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Double Dipping
I'm dumb. I write things on facebook sometimes that could easily be posted on here for those of you who are more likely to navigate this thing than facebook. Here are two recent ramblings of mine:
Best 401k Ever
I have been thinking a lot about the way that we live and share our faith. I think we have been guilty of a fundamental error in thinking. We have treated heaven as the goal of our faith. Think about it. We sing so many songs that talk about getting out of this world and getting a reward. Reward? Is that what it is? Seems to me that someone earns rewards, yet we also say that we cannot do anything to gain salvation. Interesting...
What then? How should we go about faith? Well, I think the answer is simple and one that is often given in jest in Sunday school and Bible classes at ACU: Jesus. Yes, that guy we talk about sometimes. Think about faith like a job. It's not one, it's a metaphor. Don't jump all over the analogy by taking it too far. Why do you get a job? Money, right? The answer is yes. Some of you will start to say fulfillment or purpose, but deep down you know that if the money were not there you probably wouldn't take it. Now, rarely do you start a career or job by thinking about how good the 401k is. The job is started for the paycheck.
Heaven is, by far, the best 401k ever. Forget retiring in Florida, we get to live with the King. Get excited, but stay focused. My question to you is: what's the paycheck? Now, it may be various things but here's what it should be:
"He has showed you, O man, what is good.
And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God." -Micah 6:8
A relationship with God. We get so caught up in heaven that we forget the real point of grace. Grace was given to us, Christ died for us, not so that we could get into an exclusive (and holy) nightclub. We have been rescued from sin so that we can once again be in communion with God. That is the paycheck.
By all means, keep looking forward to heaven. However, do not let that make you lose sight of the real joy and excitement that comes from knowing and being known by the Creator, the Sustainer, the King, the Parent, the God who loves you.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This Is Serious
I have been thinking about this for a while and tonight's lesson with the Hillcrest youth finally pushed me to write about it. Our faith is supposed to be serious. The following passage from Luke 9 has stuck with me for a while:
57As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go."
58Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head."
59He said to another man, "Follow me."
But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father."
60Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God."
61 Still another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good-by to my family."
62Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God."
This passage seems pretty serious to me. Jesus doesn't seem to be making jokes as these people come wanting to follow him. I think that is the part of this passage that hits me the hardest. These people come to Jesus and say, "I want to follow you," and he basically tells them that they don't have what it takes. Now, I know I'm paraphrasing and probably oversimplifying a little, but when it comes down to it you can't deny that Jesus viewed being his disciple as a serious commitment.
When I look at how I have lived my life for the majority of my 20 years I can't help but feel selfish, whiney, and a poor excuse for a disciple of Jesus. I have loved him, and I have stayed away from doing the wrong thing. So what? I have not loved my neighbor, I have not been salt or light. I have been a good "church kid". I have been part of the family. Yet, as I look at the life of Jesus and see the people that he spent his time with and where he spent most of his time, I see that I have been living a cheap Christianity. I have been playing a game when this is all too real.
We talk about "fighting the good fight", being "soldiers of Christ", and putting on the "armor of God". All of these images are good and the first and last are straight out of scripture. But I don't think that quite gets at what we are called to do.
The battle is over. Victory already belongs to God. We are not fighting, we are not conquering, we are not vanquishing. We are cleaning up.
After every war there is a period of recovery, a time of reconstruction. We are the ones charged with that duty. The war has been decided, but not everyone knows. Many have been left in the darkness in the aftermath of God's victory. How many will we leave there?
Do not take up arms, do not prepare for battle, do not raise the banner high. Go into the chaos of the aftermath of battle and mend broken souls. Care for the sick, the needy, the lost, and the dead. For once you were as they are, but have seen the light and accepted the grace freely offered to all. Above all, love. Love fiercely and gently, love deeply and freely, and love unconditionally.
Why?
Because it will be the difference between life and death.
This is serious.
Best 401k Ever
I have been thinking a lot about the way that we live and share our faith. I think we have been guilty of a fundamental error in thinking. We have treated heaven as the goal of our faith. Think about it. We sing so many songs that talk about getting out of this world and getting a reward. Reward? Is that what it is? Seems to me that someone earns rewards, yet we also say that we cannot do anything to gain salvation. Interesting...
What then? How should we go about faith? Well, I think the answer is simple and one that is often given in jest in Sunday school and Bible classes at ACU: Jesus. Yes, that guy we talk about sometimes. Think about faith like a job. It's not one, it's a metaphor. Don't jump all over the analogy by taking it too far. Why do you get a job? Money, right? The answer is yes. Some of you will start to say fulfillment or purpose, but deep down you know that if the money were not there you probably wouldn't take it. Now, rarely do you start a career or job by thinking about how good the 401k is. The job is started for the paycheck.
Heaven is, by far, the best 401k ever. Forget retiring in Florida, we get to live with the King. Get excited, but stay focused. My question to you is: what's the paycheck? Now, it may be various things but here's what it should be:
"He has showed you, O man, what is good.
And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God." -Micah 6:8
A relationship with God. We get so caught up in heaven that we forget the real point of grace. Grace was given to us, Christ died for us, not so that we could get into an exclusive (and holy) nightclub. We have been rescued from sin so that we can once again be in communion with God. That is the paycheck.
By all means, keep looking forward to heaven. However, do not let that make you lose sight of the real joy and excitement that comes from knowing and being known by the Creator, the Sustainer, the King, the Parent, the God who loves you.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This Is Serious
I have been thinking about this for a while and tonight's lesson with the Hillcrest youth finally pushed me to write about it. Our faith is supposed to be serious. The following passage from Luke 9 has stuck with me for a while:
57As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go."
58Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head."
59He said to another man, "Follow me."
But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father."
60Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God."
61 Still another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good-by to my family."
62Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God."
This passage seems pretty serious to me. Jesus doesn't seem to be making jokes as these people come wanting to follow him. I think that is the part of this passage that hits me the hardest. These people come to Jesus and say, "I want to follow you," and he basically tells them that they don't have what it takes. Now, I know I'm paraphrasing and probably oversimplifying a little, but when it comes down to it you can't deny that Jesus viewed being his disciple as a serious commitment.
When I look at how I have lived my life for the majority of my 20 years I can't help but feel selfish, whiney, and a poor excuse for a disciple of Jesus. I have loved him, and I have stayed away from doing the wrong thing. So what? I have not loved my neighbor, I have not been salt or light. I have been a good "church kid". I have been part of the family. Yet, as I look at the life of Jesus and see the people that he spent his time with and where he spent most of his time, I see that I have been living a cheap Christianity. I have been playing a game when this is all too real.
We talk about "fighting the good fight", being "soldiers of Christ", and putting on the "armor of God". All of these images are good and the first and last are straight out of scripture. But I don't think that quite gets at what we are called to do.
The battle is over. Victory already belongs to God. We are not fighting, we are not conquering, we are not vanquishing. We are cleaning up.
After every war there is a period of recovery, a time of reconstruction. We are the ones charged with that duty. The war has been decided, but not everyone knows. Many have been left in the darkness in the aftermath of God's victory. How many will we leave there?
Do not take up arms, do not prepare for battle, do not raise the banner high. Go into the chaos of the aftermath of battle and mend broken souls. Care for the sick, the needy, the lost, and the dead. For once you were as they are, but have seen the light and accepted the grace freely offered to all. Above all, love. Love fiercely and gently, love deeply and freely, and love unconditionally.
Why?
Because it will be the difference between life and death.
This is serious.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Worst Blogger Ever...
I know, I know. It's been forever. So much has happened. Oh well, c'est la vie.
I don't want this semester to be over, because that means I am halfway done with college (undergrad anyway). That is gross. Anyway, since it is the end of another semester I figured I would make a list of things I've learned. A top ten list of course.
10. Disc golf is amazing. I don't know how I lived happily before I started playing this sport. It is so much fun. I have made several new friends who I play with a lot. I also enjoy just going out and playing a round or two alone. It's a sport that allows for a lot of meditation.
9. Time management is hard when you become more like Hannah Anderson. I was more involved this semester than I have ever been in my life. Here is a list of all the things I have been involved in (some of these were not all semester long but they sure do make the list look impressive): Officer for Seekers, Creative team member for Seekers, Bible Departmental Chapel planning committee, Minter Lane Youth Volunteer, Minter Lane Worship planning committee, Tutor, Intern for Hillcrest, ACU for Abilene Planning Committee, and had a social life. Busy but awesome.
8. I care a lot less what others think of me. Now I am still aware of others' feelings and do not offend people if I can help it. I have simply begun to be myself instead of the person others want me to be. I don't care if people find out I don't care about sports. I write poetry. I have also come into my own faith more. I do not have to live out my faith the same way as you and that's fine. It's made life a lot simpler.
7. Complaining is for losers. I still complain from time to time, but I try hard not to. People around me always complain about chapel, homework, jobs, etc. Welcome to life. Sometimes we have to do things that we don't necessarily want to, but life is about more than us.
6. My God loves me right now. For the longest time God's love was conditional in my mind. I didn't actually form that thought, but I saw it in the way I treated faith and how I treated others. I focused on my own and others' flaws instead of looking past that stuff to who they really are. I used to treat a relationship with God like it was something that came and went with how holy I was. Now I see that He is with me now, He was with me yesterday, and He will be with me tomorrow.
5. Greek is great. I love it! I have started carrying my Greek NT with me whenever I go to church or a bible study, not to criticize or point out mistakes, but just for me. It gives me a chance to apply my love for languages to my faith. It has been great to be able to share that passion with God whenever I want. Next year I'm going to be taking Hebrew and I cannot wait for what God has in store for me through that and my continuing Greek education.
4. "Garbage in, garbage out" is more true than I ever thought. At a retreat that Seekers performed at this semester one of the speakers gave the standard "get rid of bad music, movies, etc." pep talk. I have heard so many of those in my life and never once listened. So I tried it. I went back to my dorm and did a deep cleaning of my iTunes. That meant deleting a lot of things that I had paid for. That meant giving up watching a lot of junk that was entertaining, but also filthy. Since then, I have noticed that my outlook on life is better, my attentiveness to God has greatly increased, and I am generally less self-centered. The correlation between all of those may not be direct, but suffice to say my garbage intake has been severely reduced.
3. Working with youth is what I love. Even at the times that I am frustrated with church, school, and life in general I always look forward to spending time with the Hillcrest youth. They are a great bunch of kids and in the short time that I have worked with them I have learned so much. I look forward to sharing more of my life and my faith with them and I know that they have so much to teach me. God has blessed me with skills and passion that I am getting to put into practice in new and challenging ways. I love it!
2. Passion is a gift from God. We have a tendency to think of God's will in terms of duty and obligation, but I have come to see that the desires of my heart were given to me by God and the things I have a passion for often help me to grow closer to Him. I love to write, and He speaks to me through my writing. I have a passion for youth ministry and He works through me. Doing what you love is not only healthy, but a part of God's plan for you (unless what you love is stealing things or something).
1. There will never be enough time to do everything you or anyone else wants you to do. I have had to decide between two or three things to do on a daily basis. This used to bother me, but this semester has taught me that it is okay to not do EVERYTHING. I am one person and can only do so much. As long as I do what I do well and with Christ in mind and heart, I'm good.
Well, there you have it. Another semester down.
Until next time, may you be continually reminded of God's love for you. May you come to accept and love yourself the way that God does so that you may love others the same way. May you enjoy life for the blessing that it is. Be cleansed by Christ, filled with the Spirit, and close to God.
Blessings,
Matt
I don't want this semester to be over, because that means I am halfway done with college (undergrad anyway). That is gross. Anyway, since it is the end of another semester I figured I would make a list of things I've learned. A top ten list of course.
10. Disc golf is amazing. I don't know how I lived happily before I started playing this sport. It is so much fun. I have made several new friends who I play with a lot. I also enjoy just going out and playing a round or two alone. It's a sport that allows for a lot of meditation.
9. Time management is hard when you become more like Hannah Anderson. I was more involved this semester than I have ever been in my life. Here is a list of all the things I have been involved in (some of these were not all semester long but they sure do make the list look impressive): Officer for Seekers, Creative team member for Seekers, Bible Departmental Chapel planning committee, Minter Lane Youth Volunteer, Minter Lane Worship planning committee, Tutor, Intern for Hillcrest, ACU for Abilene Planning Committee, and had a social life. Busy but awesome.
8. I care a lot less what others think of me. Now I am still aware of others' feelings and do not offend people if I can help it. I have simply begun to be myself instead of the person others want me to be. I don't care if people find out I don't care about sports. I write poetry. I have also come into my own faith more. I do not have to live out my faith the same way as you and that's fine. It's made life a lot simpler.
7. Complaining is for losers. I still complain from time to time, but I try hard not to. People around me always complain about chapel, homework, jobs, etc. Welcome to life. Sometimes we have to do things that we don't necessarily want to, but life is about more than us.
6. My God loves me right now. For the longest time God's love was conditional in my mind. I didn't actually form that thought, but I saw it in the way I treated faith and how I treated others. I focused on my own and others' flaws instead of looking past that stuff to who they really are. I used to treat a relationship with God like it was something that came and went with how holy I was. Now I see that He is with me now, He was with me yesterday, and He will be with me tomorrow.
5. Greek is great. I love it! I have started carrying my Greek NT with me whenever I go to church or a bible study, not to criticize or point out mistakes, but just for me. It gives me a chance to apply my love for languages to my faith. It has been great to be able to share that passion with God whenever I want. Next year I'm going to be taking Hebrew and I cannot wait for what God has in store for me through that and my continuing Greek education.
4. "Garbage in, garbage out" is more true than I ever thought. At a retreat that Seekers performed at this semester one of the speakers gave the standard "get rid of bad music, movies, etc." pep talk. I have heard so many of those in my life and never once listened. So I tried it. I went back to my dorm and did a deep cleaning of my iTunes. That meant deleting a lot of things that I had paid for. That meant giving up watching a lot of junk that was entertaining, but also filthy. Since then, I have noticed that my outlook on life is better, my attentiveness to God has greatly increased, and I am generally less self-centered. The correlation between all of those may not be direct, but suffice to say my garbage intake has been severely reduced.
3. Working with youth is what I love. Even at the times that I am frustrated with church, school, and life in general I always look forward to spending time with the Hillcrest youth. They are a great bunch of kids and in the short time that I have worked with them I have learned so much. I look forward to sharing more of my life and my faith with them and I know that they have so much to teach me. God has blessed me with skills and passion that I am getting to put into practice in new and challenging ways. I love it!
2. Passion is a gift from God. We have a tendency to think of God's will in terms of duty and obligation, but I have come to see that the desires of my heart were given to me by God and the things I have a passion for often help me to grow closer to Him. I love to write, and He speaks to me through my writing. I have a passion for youth ministry and He works through me. Doing what you love is not only healthy, but a part of God's plan for you (unless what you love is stealing things or something).
1. There will never be enough time to do everything you or anyone else wants you to do. I have had to decide between two or three things to do on a daily basis. This used to bother me, but this semester has taught me that it is okay to not do EVERYTHING. I am one person and can only do so much. As long as I do what I do well and with Christ in mind and heart, I'm good.
Well, there you have it. Another semester down.
Until next time, may you be continually reminded of God's love for you. May you come to accept and love yourself the way that God does so that you may love others the same way. May you enjoy life for the blessing that it is. Be cleansed by Christ, filled with the Spirit, and close to God.
Blessings,
Matt
Thursday, February 25, 2010
We knew I was bad at this...
I was simply not made to live a blogging lifestyle. It is a rare occasion that I am in my dorm room and awake longer than the time it takes to get ready either to leave or to go to bed. I am always running to class, work, Seekers, friends' houses, etc. Welcome back to campus life.
Speaking of life, I love it! This semester is amazing. There is just so much to love. I am back in Seekers which is just about the greatest thing ever. I missed it so much while I was gone. I'll be performing for the first time since before I went to Uruguay this coming weekend. I'm so excited to get back into the swing of performing. I have also really enjoyed my duties as Spiritual Director and a member of the Creative Team. We have been working on some new skits that I am pretty pumped about. I co-wrote three of them. Leading chapel and devos has been great.
My classes are either really easy or really interesting so that makes for a good semester. Greek is going really well and is by far my favorite subject. The Bible department hires a tutor for Greek each year and I talked to Marcia (my professor) about it today. She told me that there is a requirement for the tutor to take second year Greek before being able to have the job. However, she also told me that she had been thinking of me for that job and that, basically, after next year it's mine if I want it. By that point my internship will be over with Hillcrest, so I'll have more time to tutor if that happens.
Speaking of Hillcrest, I haven't even technically started working yet and I love that youth group. They are a great bunch of kids. I've had the chance to hang out with both the high school and junior high. some of the youngest junior highers were at camp this past summer. One girl came up to me last night at church and said, "Hey, you were the Voice of Counselor Trivia. I remembered, so I'm awesome." There are a ton of kids and I am having a hard time learning names, but I'll start to worry more when I'm paid to remember them.
I've also really enjoyed playing disc golf. It's a really relaxing sport and it has become one of the ways that I spend some quiet time with God. I just take my discs and either listen to some Christian music or pray while I play a round or two. I've also made a couple groups of friends who like to play, so I go play with them from time to time.
Anyway, life is fast and crazy but in a very good way. I can't wait to go visit Kayla and Darby with Hannah over Spring Break! It's coming faster than I know.
Until next time, may God show you that He can keep up with you no matter how busy you feel. May you see that He is a part of all things and that, if you open your heart, He will use you wherever you are.
Blessings,
Matt
Speaking of life, I love it! This semester is amazing. There is just so much to love. I am back in Seekers which is just about the greatest thing ever. I missed it so much while I was gone. I'll be performing for the first time since before I went to Uruguay this coming weekend. I'm so excited to get back into the swing of performing. I have also really enjoyed my duties as Spiritual Director and a member of the Creative Team. We have been working on some new skits that I am pretty pumped about. I co-wrote three of them. Leading chapel and devos has been great.
My classes are either really easy or really interesting so that makes for a good semester. Greek is going really well and is by far my favorite subject. The Bible department hires a tutor for Greek each year and I talked to Marcia (my professor) about it today. She told me that there is a requirement for the tutor to take second year Greek before being able to have the job. However, she also told me that she had been thinking of me for that job and that, basically, after next year it's mine if I want it. By that point my internship will be over with Hillcrest, so I'll have more time to tutor if that happens.
Speaking of Hillcrest, I haven't even technically started working yet and I love that youth group. They are a great bunch of kids. I've had the chance to hang out with both the high school and junior high. some of the youngest junior highers were at camp this past summer. One girl came up to me last night at church and said, "Hey, you were the Voice of Counselor Trivia. I remembered, so I'm awesome." There are a ton of kids and I am having a hard time learning names, but I'll start to worry more when I'm paid to remember them.
I've also really enjoyed playing disc golf. It's a really relaxing sport and it has become one of the ways that I spend some quiet time with God. I just take my discs and either listen to some Christian music or pray while I play a round or two. I've also made a couple groups of friends who like to play, so I go play with them from time to time.
Anyway, life is fast and crazy but in a very good way. I can't wait to go visit Kayla and Darby with Hannah over Spring Break! It's coming faster than I know.
Until next time, may God show you that He can keep up with you no matter how busy you feel. May you see that He is a part of all things and that, if you open your heart, He will use you wherever you are.
Blessings,
Matt
Monday, January 25, 2010
In the blink of an eye...
Time has lost control of itself. The days are confused and get out of order, or simply don't show up at all sometimes. The weeks shove each other aside in a mad dash to the next month. In case you didn't gather, I feel like this semester is off at a ridiculous pace. Nothing is causing too much stress or anything. It just feels like life could take a break from the caffeine and slow down a bit. I am a lot busier this semester than I've ever been. I am an officer and a member of the creative team for Seekers. I have a job tutoring on campus. I help with the youth at Minter Lane on Wednesday nights and I'm on one of the worship planning committees there. While all of this goes on I am trying to get better at disc golf (I'm in a class for it!), read, write, and enjoy friends (both new and old). It's a clumsy and flailing juggling act that strains the capabilities of my half-organized, half-chaotic mind. Have I mentioned that I love it. I must be getting more like Hannah.
I have also been talking to different churches about internships. I had one phone interview, submitted an online application, signed up for the internship fair on campus, and emailed a church in town about a possible year-long internship. After my phone interview it hit me for the first time just how close I am to living out my passion. The desire to be in youth ministry will soon be more than just a desire. I will be able to put my gifts to use and find new ones along the way. I'll be making relationships and leading young people to God. That gets me pumped beyond all reason. I started off this semester on a note of uncertainty, but I have since gained some perspective and settled back into life on campus. This semester holds a lot of promise and possibility and I plan to make the most of it.
May our Father speak love to you today. May your ears be ever listening for the sound of His singing as He comforts, encourages, and calls you. May you echo the voice of your Lord so that those around you may learn to hear more clearly.
Blessings,
Matt
I have also been talking to different churches about internships. I had one phone interview, submitted an online application, signed up for the internship fair on campus, and emailed a church in town about a possible year-long internship. After my phone interview it hit me for the first time just how close I am to living out my passion. The desire to be in youth ministry will soon be more than just a desire. I will be able to put my gifts to use and find new ones along the way. I'll be making relationships and leading young people to God. That gets me pumped beyond all reason. I started off this semester on a note of uncertainty, but I have since gained some perspective and settled back into life on campus. This semester holds a lot of promise and possibility and I plan to make the most of it.
May our Father speak love to you today. May your ears be ever listening for the sound of His singing as He comforts, encourages, and calls you. May you echo the voice of your Lord so that those around you may learn to hear more clearly.
Blessings,
Matt
Sunday, January 3, 2010
New Year, Old Territory
It's hard to believe that it's been a month since my last post and even harder to believe how much has happened in that month. I think that's what has been keeping me from starting back up the blog. Each time something else happened it would mean the next entry would be that much longer. Instead of a ridiculously long entry, I'll just give the highlights of the past month and probably go off on some tangent.
Well the end of the semester in Montevideo was relatively uneventful, filled with exams and packing. Then we hopped on a few planes for about a day (fun like you've never experienced...). About a week later I was back on a plane with my dad. We went to Utah to ski. We had great skiing and weather, even though the snow was a little low.
When we got back from Utah we had our Christmas celebrations with family and I tried to spend time with the friends I had missed for an entire semester. I didn't get to see as many as I had hoped, but there will be more chances soon enough. My break was cut short by a week by the January intensive course that I'm taking right now, Prophetic Literature of the Old Testament. I have class from 8-5 for a week for a semester's worth of credit. Anyway, it's time for the tangent that will form the bulk of this entry.
I read a few books over the break. I guess I'll go through them one by one.
1. The Messiah of Morris Avenue. This book is a modern day look at the story of Jesus. It is both hilarious and inspiring, encouraging and accusing. One of the most interesting aspects of Jay's (the modern Jesus character) teachings is his ideas on the trinity. He refers to God the Father and God the Mother. The Father is the Creator while the Mother is the Sustainer. Life would not exist without the Father and would not continue to do so without the Mother. As the son, he is the coming together of these two. It is a quick read and will really give you things to think about concerning the church today and what our mission is.
2. unChristian. This book (as many of you may already know) is the result of research into the stereotypes associated with Christians and the church today. The book does not concern itself as much with defending the church against attacks, but instead with offering possible solutions and changes to be effected within the church to make our image conform to that of Christ. Aside from showing a distinct bias toward a certain model of Christianity over others and having a distinct conservative viewpoint, this book provides a balanced look at the issues facing today's church and also features short essays by ministry leaders offering their ideas of how to become the hands and feet of Jesus.
3. The Da Vinci Code. I know, I know. It's been sitting on my shelf for years and I never got around to reading it. I have finally caught up with the world. As usual, I found myself less scandalized by a novel than some. I found the majority of it intriguing. I have always found symbology and things like the Knights Templar interesting. Also, I like the random tidbits that Brown throws into his writing (like the word sinister coming from the word for left handed people because they were considered bad). This book was not life changing. Simply an exciting, action-filled read.
4. The Unlikely Disciple. This book was reviewed by Kayla back in October which is what first turned me on to it. It is written by a journalism student from Brown who decides to transfer to Liberty University for a semester to write about the conservative evangelical side of the "God Divide". It is hilarious, sad, and even scary at times. He pulls no punches in uncovering what he finds wrong with the Christian environment that he experiences, but he also strives to find good in those around him and to humanize the people that his friends and family detest. At times I was proud to be a Christian while reading it and at other times I was ashamed to be associated with some of the behaviors of the author's classmates and professors. A wonderful and well-written book.
Well, that's all for now. I have to head back to my afternoon of more exciting prophets (That actually wasn't meant to be sarcastic. The class has been great so far.)
Blessings,
Matt
Well the end of the semester in Montevideo was relatively uneventful, filled with exams and packing. Then we hopped on a few planes for about a day (fun like you've never experienced...). About a week later I was back on a plane with my dad. We went to Utah to ski. We had great skiing and weather, even though the snow was a little low.
When we got back from Utah we had our Christmas celebrations with family and I tried to spend time with the friends I had missed for an entire semester. I didn't get to see as many as I had hoped, but there will be more chances soon enough. My break was cut short by a week by the January intensive course that I'm taking right now, Prophetic Literature of the Old Testament. I have class from 8-5 for a week for a semester's worth of credit. Anyway, it's time for the tangent that will form the bulk of this entry.
I read a few books over the break. I guess I'll go through them one by one.
1. The Messiah of Morris Avenue. This book is a modern day look at the story of Jesus. It is both hilarious and inspiring, encouraging and accusing. One of the most interesting aspects of Jay's (the modern Jesus character) teachings is his ideas on the trinity. He refers to God the Father and God the Mother. The Father is the Creator while the Mother is the Sustainer. Life would not exist without the Father and would not continue to do so without the Mother. As the son, he is the coming together of these two. It is a quick read and will really give you things to think about concerning the church today and what our mission is.
2. unChristian. This book (as many of you may already know) is the result of research into the stereotypes associated with Christians and the church today. The book does not concern itself as much with defending the church against attacks, but instead with offering possible solutions and changes to be effected within the church to make our image conform to that of Christ. Aside from showing a distinct bias toward a certain model of Christianity over others and having a distinct conservative viewpoint, this book provides a balanced look at the issues facing today's church and also features short essays by ministry leaders offering their ideas of how to become the hands and feet of Jesus.
3. The Da Vinci Code. I know, I know. It's been sitting on my shelf for years and I never got around to reading it. I have finally caught up with the world. As usual, I found myself less scandalized by a novel than some. I found the majority of it intriguing. I have always found symbology and things like the Knights Templar interesting. Also, I like the random tidbits that Brown throws into his writing (like the word sinister coming from the word for left handed people because they were considered bad). This book was not life changing. Simply an exciting, action-filled read.
4. The Unlikely Disciple. This book was reviewed by Kayla back in October which is what first turned me on to it. It is written by a journalism student from Brown who decides to transfer to Liberty University for a semester to write about the conservative evangelical side of the "God Divide". It is hilarious, sad, and even scary at times. He pulls no punches in uncovering what he finds wrong with the Christian environment that he experiences, but he also strives to find good in those around him and to humanize the people that his friends and family detest. At times I was proud to be a Christian while reading it and at other times I was ashamed to be associated with some of the behaviors of the author's classmates and professors. A wonderful and well-written book.
Well, that's all for now. I have to head back to my afternoon of more exciting prophets (That actually wasn't meant to be sarcastic. The class has been great so far.)
Blessings,
Matt
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