Here I am, in Tel Aviv, Israel. I never had imagined this country would be so pretty, physically. As I stepped outside the airport to take my first glance of this country, I could not even believe what I saw. Palm trees, a blue sky and not a cloud in the sky. My first impression was surely a nice one. The team and I, a total of 16 people, crammed into taxi vans with our luggage and began our one month journey in Israel.
If I have noticed one thing so far, it is that most Israeli people are prickly on the outside, but soft on the inside. Your average Israeli Jew would refer to his or herself as a "sabra," which a common prickly pear cactus in Israel. It might be easy to get offended by the response or tone of an Israeli, provided you asked some sort of question. Nonetheless, aren't we called to love? God says this to Israel:
"I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you." Jeremiah 31:3
And Jesus, this:
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34-35
The bible tells us time and time again to love, and that theme can never be exhausted. Love really is that important, for God is love. Jesus spent his life loving while the majority never loved him back. If we want to call ourselves disciples, we must love as he did and still does today.
Yesterday, while walking back to our hostel, a few friends and I decided to buy some fresh bread and guava to eat on our way. We all thought it a smart idea to sit and eat, as it was 99 degrees outside. Sitting beside us was a young African man who appeared to be on a break from work. I offered him a guava and he graciously ate it. We never spoke to the man other than our simple curiosity of where he was from and why he was in Israel. Then he took a second guava. We waved goodbye and continued on to our hostel.
My prayer is that this simple gesture of generosity would go a long way. It might seem small, but it is love. Too many times I find myself doubting the power of the Holy Spirit. But, as we are obedient in practical things, God will take care of the rest. He is God. I, of course, am not.
Today we traveled to Jerusalem, Israel. This is quite the place, let me tell you. I am overwhelmed with excitement.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
only to glorify christ
My time spent in Korea has been wondrous. I am so amazed at what God can do through our obedience and submission to him. It really is amazing to me.
With that being said, I desire that Christ would receive the glory.
"For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive, but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts. For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed... God is witness. Nor did we seek glory from people, whether from you or from others, though we could have made demands as apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us." 1 Thessalonians 2:3-8
As I call myself a follower of Christ, I long to walk in integrity and do what I can to posses the character of Jesus Christ.
With that being said, I desire that Christ would receive the glory.
"For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive, but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts. For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed... God is witness. Nor did we seek glory from people, whether from you or from others, though we could have made demands as apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us." 1 Thessalonians 2:3-8
As I call myself a follower of Christ, I long to walk in integrity and do what I can to posses the character of Jesus Christ.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
south korea 2011
I am back in South Korea, exactly one year later, and I love it. I am grateful to God, my Creator, for allowing me to see this beautiful country and these wonderful people once again! I don't know what to expect, exactly, but I am confident that God has great things in store.
Be Thou My Vision
Be Thou My Vision
| Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart; Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art. Thou my best thought, by day or by night, Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light. Be Thou my Wisdom, Thou my true Word; I ever with Thee, Thou with me, Lord; Thou my great Father, I thy true son; Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one. | Be Thou my battle-shield, sword for my fight, Be Thou my dignity, Thou my delight. Thou my soul's shelter, Thou my high tower. Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power. Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise, Thou mine inheritance, now and always: Thou and Thou only, first in my heart, High King of heaven, my Treasure Thou art. |
| High King of heaven, my victory won, May I reach heaven's joys, O bright heav'ns Son! Heart of my own heart, whatever befall, Still be my vision, O ruler of all. |
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
harder than i thought: some recent thoughts
It finally occurred to me, today, that just because something may be God's will, it doesn't make it any easier. I think I have "known" this truth for a while, because of course I believe that obeying the call of God requires life walked down the narrow road... or through the narrow gate. "Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many" Matthew 7:13. The fact that the way to destruction is easy clearly implies that the righteous path and pursuit of holiness is difficult. So many people want the easy way, thus many enter into destruction.
I guess believing and knowing isn't quite enough when you aren't living what you believe.
Like I said, it occurred to me, today, that I wasn't living what I so firmly believe.
I think that many people decide to follow Christ because they are in hope of something easier, or something that will make their life better based on terms of prosperity. I have realized that the value of God for who he is, his character, is a major factor in the Christian "faith," or l i f e. Problems occur, though, when we start to value God for his hand, and how much stuff we are given... or are too focused on the "feeling" that they think they deserve from being a Christian. That's the problem. We think we deserve... or are entitled to certain things, just because we are told that being a Christian will make us happier, or whatever. Don't get me wrong, I am happy... and I would never renounce Christianity. But, a lot people now a days just hear the words happy and better and say they are a Christian.
I am currently reading a book in my School of Worship at YWAM, Tyler, called "Think Like Jesus," by George Barna. He says this about a Christian life:
"Jesus discussed the reality with His followers, wanting the (and us) to understand that a biblical worldview does not make life easy; it makes our lives pleasing to God and personally rewarding. A life of obedience to God will not be understood or appreciated by a selfish and sinful world. Jesus warned people that obedience to God would brings on rifts with family and friends, financial struggles, public ridicule, legal hassles, death threats, imprisonment, physical attacks, unemployment, misunderstandings, and serious illness. Those who commit themselves to living in full obedience to God will also be more prominently involved in the spiritual battle for their soul. Intentionally and boldly living for God positions you as a prime target for spiritual attacks because Satan recognizes such people as a serious threat to his objectives" George Barna, Think Like Jesus.
It is clear that the way through the narrow gate is not easy.
I guess believing and knowing isn't quite enough when you aren't living what you believe.
Like I said, it occurred to me, today, that I wasn't living what I so firmly believe.
I think that many people decide to follow Christ because they are in hope of something easier, or something that will make their life better based on terms of prosperity. I have realized that the value of God for who he is, his character, is a major factor in the Christian "faith," or l i f e. Problems occur, though, when we start to value God for his hand, and how much stuff we are given... or are too focused on the "feeling" that they think they deserve from being a Christian. That's the problem. We think we deserve... or are entitled to certain things, just because we are told that being a Christian will make us happier, or whatever. Don't get me wrong, I am happy... and I would never renounce Christianity. But, a lot people now a days just hear the words happy and better and say they are a Christian.
I am currently reading a book in my School of Worship at YWAM, Tyler, called "Think Like Jesus," by George Barna. He says this about a Christian life:
"Jesus discussed the reality with His followers, wanting the (and us) to understand that a biblical worldview does not make life easy; it makes our lives pleasing to God and personally rewarding. A life of obedience to God will not be understood or appreciated by a selfish and sinful world. Jesus warned people that obedience to God would brings on rifts with family and friends, financial struggles, public ridicule, legal hassles, death threats, imprisonment, physical attacks, unemployment, misunderstandings, and serious illness. Those who commit themselves to living in full obedience to God will also be more prominently involved in the spiritual battle for their soul. Intentionally and boldly living for God positions you as a prime target for spiritual attacks because Satan recognizes such people as a serious threat to his objectives" George Barna, Think Like Jesus.
It is clear that the way through the narrow gate is not easy.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
psalm 90
"Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.
You return man to dust and say, 'Return, O children of man!' For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night.
You sweep them away as with a flood; they are like a dream, like grass that is renewed in the morning: in the morning it flourishes and is renewed; in the evening it fades and withers.
For we are brought to an end by your anger; by your wrath we are dismayed. You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of you presence.
For all our days pass away under your wrath; we bring our years to an end like a sigh. The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; they are soon gone, and we fly away. Who considers the power of your anger, and your wrath according to the fear of you?
So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom. Return, O Lord! How long? Have pity on your servants! Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, and for as many years as we have seen evil. Let your work be shown to your servants, and your glorious power to their children. Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!"
Psalm 90
Life is short and precious. This psalm reminds not to take tomorrow, or anything, really, for granted. So, I guess, "make the most of life!"
To "make the most of life" does not imply that we are to fulfill every selfish desire on our bucket list.
You return man to dust and say, 'Return, O children of man!' For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night.
You sweep them away as with a flood; they are like a dream, like grass that is renewed in the morning: in the morning it flourishes and is renewed; in the evening it fades and withers.
For we are brought to an end by your anger; by your wrath we are dismayed. You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of you presence.
For all our days pass away under your wrath; we bring our years to an end like a sigh. The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; they are soon gone, and we fly away. Who considers the power of your anger, and your wrath according to the fear of you?
So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom. Return, O Lord! How long? Have pity on your servants! Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, and for as many years as we have seen evil. Let your work be shown to your servants, and your glorious power to their children. Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!"
Psalm 90
Life is short and precious. This psalm reminds not to take tomorrow, or anything, really, for granted. So, I guess, "make the most of life!"
To "make the most of life" does not imply that we are to fulfill every selfish desire on our bucket list.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
coming home, future plans
Yes, now I am at home, here in good, old, northern Minnesota. It is a blessing to be able to spend time with my family, and see some friends before they all leave for school. My School of Evangelism at YWAM just ended on August 15, and the whole school (the last 5 months) was great. To be honest, though, it was probably the hardest 5 months I have had to endure since I have been of "adult age." Despite the struggle, God used it for his glory, and to grow me as a disciple. I am overjoyed, that even in our "hard" times God is more than willing to teach us or put us to good use.
Since I have been home, preparation for what is to come is my main priority. I am planning on going back to YWAM Tyler for a third school: the School of Worship. I aspire to live with a heart of worship... to praise the Lord in the worst conditions, as well as the best, and I feel that this school will be beneficial, to say the least. Not to mention, I get the opportunity to put my musical ability into good use, for it is a worship school. With hope, I will be playing a lot of guitar, singing, and drums. I am excited.
Like I said, preparation is a priority. I have been working, and have some other ideas in mind to raise support. But, to be totally honest... I need help. I will need $5,500 for the School of Worship, and that covers both the lecture phase and outreach. Yeah, I know I am young, but this isn't just a temporary lifestyle for me. It isn't just something to do before college... but the beginning of my life as a son and servant of God. Any amount of support is a blessing.
Here, take a look at the YWAM Tyler website. There is information about my next school, and a bunch of others:
ywamtyler.org
Since I have been home, preparation for what is to come is my main priority. I am planning on going back to YWAM Tyler for a third school: the School of Worship. I aspire to live with a heart of worship... to praise the Lord in the worst conditions, as well as the best, and I feel that this school will be beneficial, to say the least. Not to mention, I get the opportunity to put my musical ability into good use, for it is a worship school. With hope, I will be playing a lot of guitar, singing, and drums. I am excited.
Like I said, preparation is a priority. I have been working, and have some other ideas in mind to raise support. But, to be totally honest... I need help. I will need $5,500 for the School of Worship, and that covers both the lecture phase and outreach. Yeah, I know I am young, but this isn't just a temporary lifestyle for me. It isn't just something to do before college... but the beginning of my life as a son and servant of God. Any amount of support is a blessing.
Here, take a look at the YWAM Tyler website. There is information about my next school, and a bunch of others:
ywamtyler.org
Saturday, July 24, 2010
crystal clear
Wow, outreach over in Romania has been great so far! During my time in Constanta, a friend Kyle and I ministered at the skate park almost every night. It is cool that God uses our gifts for his glory. I never thought that I would be skateboarding for the sake of the gospel. During the day, though, we were able to be a part of a "kids camp" for gypsy children. They are beautiful children of God... and it is sad to me that most of Europe is cruel to them. Fathers cannot get jobs, just because they are gypsy. Some Romanian parents will send their children to different schools, only because they do not want them around gypsies. Sad.
As a matter of fact, there were two teenage Romanian boys at the kids camp. They were not participating, they were just there watching... smirking... laughing. They asked me to come sit with them and talk... so I did. We started talking and they told me that they came to the kids camp, only to make fun and laugh. They made it very clear to me that they were not gypsy... that gypsies are bad, and they are most definitely Romanian. I asked them why they made fun, and they just said it is funny that we came to hang out with the gypsies. But, as we kept talking about this topic, one kid said "it is good you are here though, because the gypsies are happy. We have never seen them this happy... it is a good thing." He said that we make them happy, and they do not know how. Well, I know how... and who (Jesus Christ!) makes them happy. It was reassuring to me, that even these two kids, who didn't like they gypsies, noticed that we carried a presence... the Holy Spirit... the Joy of the Lord. The two boys told me that they will not make fun anymore, because of the conversation we had... they understand now.
That is the God we serve. Wow.
It is apparent how we, who call ourselves Christians, are supposed to live. Believing is not enough... having the knowledge and going to church is just not enough. We are called to live as Christ, for he was the PERFECT example for us. Paul endured suffering way beyond what most of us even dream of, and I believe it was because he was a threat to the devil. Yes, the devil caused his suffering, not God. The devil still works this way today... when he notices someone making an impact in the kingdom of God, he will do anything to thwart God's plan; financial problems, prison, disease, and even death. In reading this passage, I realized that maybe my life is not enough of a threat to the devil. Yeah, I am a "missionary," and I want to live sacrificially... but I want the devil to be scared of me. I want the devil to fear God, himself, working through my life.
It is crystal clear how we as Christians are supposed to live.
And later in Philippians 3, Paul goes on to say the he wants to "share in the sufferings of Christ, and become like him in his death." And if Paul was important enough to have his life remembered in the Word of God, the Bible... then what he says must be valid. He must have lived his life, at least, somewhat correctly! We should have this same attitude towards life... this same desire... exact same PASSION to see the Lord's kingdom come on this earth!
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