It’s been a while since I posted a blog to share my thoughts and experience. It was intentional silence and idleness. Doing nothing and thinking nothing. No written ideas. I am studying in a seminary, but I felt I have learned nothing with what I am doing. Someone pressed the button and it started to affect my leadership and ministry. I was about to give up. I was supposed to share, lead, and empower people; but I felt the need inside, looked for a leader who will guide me or someone who will empower me. But there is a price for high position (James 1:9). And because of God’s love and grace, He used people to lift my spirit again. Despite of what happened, I need to highlight the following discovery and lessons I’ve learned:
•I discovered that I am also vulnerable despite of my strong-willed personality.
•I learned that besides being dependent upon God, I need somebody to rely on. The more I am becoming self-reliant the stronger I felt alone.
•I am also reminded that I cannot control the actions of other people but I can choose to control my reaction.
•I have a godly calling and I am the only person accountable to God about it.
I consider it a great privilege to rediscover myself, my purpose and my relationship to God and people. Maybe it is one of the benefits of my high position (or calling)- thus a reason to become more useful in God’s kingdom for his glory alone. Since today is my birthday, and many have shown their thoughtful love for me, it is the best time to continue my journey again.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Friday, August 7, 2009
Survival of the fittest
Survival of the fittest
JOHN 15:1-17
(Introduction to the Bible/Reflection Paper/Submitted on July 23, 2009)
Remain in the vine (or in me)… remain in my words… remain in my love. Is this a pattern? For what? I am trying to figure out if these commands could point me into one thing. I couldn’t think of ways how am I going to progress in connecting these “remain” imperatives together. Until I see a progressive connection they resemble. Bear fruit (of the Spirit)… bear much fruit (to be his disciple)… bear fruit that will last (to be a disciple that disciples).
In his book The Principles of Biology (1864), Herbert Spencer implied “survival of the fittest” as the multiplication of the ‘fittest’, which he referred to those animals which are the most suited to their environment, i.e. those which are best fitted to survive. In conjunction, a disciple must be “fit to survive” (someone that multiplies). On the contrary, a disciple’s survival (or multiplication) must be dependent to Jesus, not striving on his own. In order to multiply a disciple, someone must be identified with Jesus as his disciple who bears the fruit of the Spirit. Yet only those who have entered a relationship with him had he given the fruit of the Spirit to them. In essence, the fruits of the Spirit are not those that we can produce ourselves but are those that God graciously gives as we are completely relying on him. This is the true disciple of Jesus, the one that glorifies his Father. Furthermore, he desires us to have a loving heart of Jesus. But this won’t move on if we don’t have the fruit of the spirit… love (Gal. 5:22). And a true disciple of Christ knows how to love and continuously loves people. Our love for other people will give us a passion for them. Our passion is to disciple them too and it will pass on from generation to generation. This is the only thing that will survive. This is our fruit that will last.
JOHN 15:1-17
(Introduction to the Bible/Reflection Paper/Submitted on July 23, 2009)
Remain in the vine (or in me)… remain in my words… remain in my love. Is this a pattern? For what? I am trying to figure out if these commands could point me into one thing. I couldn’t think of ways how am I going to progress in connecting these “remain” imperatives together. Until I see a progressive connection they resemble. Bear fruit (of the Spirit)… bear much fruit (to be his disciple)… bear fruit that will last (to be a disciple that disciples).
In his book The Principles of Biology (1864), Herbert Spencer implied “survival of the fittest” as the multiplication of the ‘fittest’, which he referred to those animals which are the most suited to their environment, i.e. those which are best fitted to survive. In conjunction, a disciple must be “fit to survive” (someone that multiplies). On the contrary, a disciple’s survival (or multiplication) must be dependent to Jesus, not striving on his own. In order to multiply a disciple, someone must be identified with Jesus as his disciple who bears the fruit of the Spirit. Yet only those who have entered a relationship with him had he given the fruit of the Spirit to them. In essence, the fruits of the Spirit are not those that we can produce ourselves but are those that God graciously gives as we are completely relying on him. This is the true disciple of Jesus, the one that glorifies his Father. Furthermore, he desires us to have a loving heart of Jesus. But this won’t move on if we don’t have the fruit of the spirit… love (Gal. 5:22). And a true disciple of Christ knows how to love and continuously loves people. Our love for other people will give us a passion for them. Our passion is to disciple them too and it will pass on from generation to generation. This is the only thing that will survive. This is our fruit that will last.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
A call to become perfect, not perfectionist
MATTHEW 5
(Introduction to the Bible/Reflection Paper/Submitted on July 16, 2009)
Matthew chapter 5 starts with The Beatitudes, which at first glance we could find Jesus’ idea of being blessed as far beyond what I knew or perhaps some of us too. The sermon was addressed to rebuke the Pharisees whose idea of being blessed reflects their hypocrisies and to teach his audiences as what it means to be blessed heavenly. People at that time knew that the Pharisees are those who do “great things” as their act of righteousness, something to be regarded as great. While most of the people don’t see their intentions, Jesus knew the motives of their hearts (6:1) – the reason why he called them hypocrites! And for Jesus, to be blessed is to be “poor in spirit”, “like those who mourn”, meek, hungry, thirsty, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, insulted, or those who are neglected (or unseen) by the society, yet our Father in heaven sees them. It made me realized then, that even the greatest thing I could do for God could mean nothing if my intention is to be seen by men rather than to please God. Most pastors and other ministers who are leading people could be fallen to this trap. For this reason, Jesus’ astounding statement “to cut it off and throw it away” any parts of our body that causes us to sin, rather than our entire body being thrown into hell (5:30). He made a great emphasis on the value of the soul than the body. And as followers of Christ, we must begin by being the salt and the light of this world, which is advancing the kingdom of heaven here on earth.
The following sermons on this chapter address the crowd about relationships. Jesus begins with the phrase “you have heard…” to commend their understanding first, and then he corrects their truncated view after. Notice how Jesus value people and it gives me the idea that the more I value them, the more my “acts of righteousness” becomes valuable. The more I value them relationally, the more I am changed inwardly. This process of perfection is to emulate the image of the Father in heaven in the person of Jesus when he was on earth. I am called to become perfect, not to be perfectionist- whose motive can be detrimental to his soul.
(Introduction to the Bible/Reflection Paper/Submitted on July 16, 2009)
Matthew chapter 5 starts with The Beatitudes, which at first glance we could find Jesus’ idea of being blessed as far beyond what I knew or perhaps some of us too. The sermon was addressed to rebuke the Pharisees whose idea of being blessed reflects their hypocrisies and to teach his audiences as what it means to be blessed heavenly. People at that time knew that the Pharisees are those who do “great things” as their act of righteousness, something to be regarded as great. While most of the people don’t see their intentions, Jesus knew the motives of their hearts (6:1) – the reason why he called them hypocrites! And for Jesus, to be blessed is to be “poor in spirit”, “like those who mourn”, meek, hungry, thirsty, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, insulted, or those who are neglected (or unseen) by the society, yet our Father in heaven sees them. It made me realized then, that even the greatest thing I could do for God could mean nothing if my intention is to be seen by men rather than to please God. Most pastors and other ministers who are leading people could be fallen to this trap. For this reason, Jesus’ astounding statement “to cut it off and throw it away” any parts of our body that causes us to sin, rather than our entire body being thrown into hell (5:30). He made a great emphasis on the value of the soul than the body. And as followers of Christ, we must begin by being the salt and the light of this world, which is advancing the kingdom of heaven here on earth.
The following sermons on this chapter address the crowd about relationships. Jesus begins with the phrase “you have heard…” to commend their understanding first, and then he corrects their truncated view after. Notice how Jesus value people and it gives me the idea that the more I value them, the more my “acts of righteousness” becomes valuable. The more I value them relationally, the more I am changed inwardly. This process of perfection is to emulate the image of the Father in heaven in the person of Jesus when he was on earth. I am called to become perfect, not to be perfectionist- whose motive can be detrimental to his soul.
Hardening Pharaoh’s heart and Hard labor for Israelites
EXODUS 5
(Introduction to the Bible/Reflection Paper/Submitted on July 2, 2009)
Who would have the guts to face the powerful man of the land in order to speak about whom they represent? If Moses and Aaron were threatened to do the bizarre thing of speaking to Pharaoh about their own terms, then who else would? But Moses and Aaron knew whom they came about, and they represent the LORD- the God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Moses told the king to set the Israelites free for three days so they could worship their God. Moses threatened the Pharaoh that if he did not listen to him, God will destroy and kill them (v.3). It was an insult to the Egyptian king and his kingdom. So God hardened the Pharaoh’s heart. And the conversation had resulted to the oppression of Israelites by making bricks without a straw, while quota did not change. The Israelites complained to Moses. But God intended to harden Pharaoh’s heart, not for the Israelites to suffer for a hard labor, but to display his power on both camps: the Pharaoh who did not fear God and the Hebrews who did not trust God. Our approach to the word of God is an attitude test.
Sometimes, we approach the Word like an insult, so we acted like Pharaoh, pointing to others instead of looking inside our hearts. We put the blame to other people for all the wrong in us, instead of surrendering to God. This is the attitude of arrogance. In some case, we approach the Word by complaining, so we acted like the Israelites, questioning God what is happening instead of trusting him with what is going on. This is the attitude of doubt. We may have different approach or ways of acceptance to his words, but God has only one purpose why sent it, that is, to change our attitude towards him. After all, this brings glory to his wonderful name.
(Introduction to the Bible/Reflection Paper/Submitted on July 2, 2009)
Who would have the guts to face the powerful man of the land in order to speak about whom they represent? If Moses and Aaron were threatened to do the bizarre thing of speaking to Pharaoh about their own terms, then who else would? But Moses and Aaron knew whom they came about, and they represent the LORD- the God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Moses told the king to set the Israelites free for three days so they could worship their God. Moses threatened the Pharaoh that if he did not listen to him, God will destroy and kill them (v.3). It was an insult to the Egyptian king and his kingdom. So God hardened the Pharaoh’s heart. And the conversation had resulted to the oppression of Israelites by making bricks without a straw, while quota did not change. The Israelites complained to Moses. But God intended to harden Pharaoh’s heart, not for the Israelites to suffer for a hard labor, but to display his power on both camps: the Pharaoh who did not fear God and the Hebrews who did not trust God. Our approach to the word of God is an attitude test.
Sometimes, we approach the Word like an insult, so we acted like Pharaoh, pointing to others instead of looking inside our hearts. We put the blame to other people for all the wrong in us, instead of surrendering to God. This is the attitude of arrogance. In some case, we approach the Word by complaining, so we acted like the Israelites, questioning God what is happening instead of trusting him with what is going on. This is the attitude of doubt. We may have different approach or ways of acceptance to his words, but God has only one purpose why sent it, that is, to change our attitude towards him. After all, this brings glory to his wonderful name.
Going back to the Garden
GENESIS: Chapters 1-12
(Introduction to the Bible/Reflection Paper/Submitted on June 25, 2009)
The book of Genesis opens its narrative nature by telling us the history of Creation, how through God’s spoken word the earth’s “form” came into existence (Chapter 1). It continued until the earth is filled with living and non-living creatures, to which God found it good. Later, we will see the unique creation of man (2:7) and how his original nature was conceived by God (1:26-27). I’ve noticed the familiar narrative statement “And God said… and it was so.” which shows how powerful His words are, that He purposely shows His glory through His spoken words, which will bring to Him pleasure in return. That includes His original concept of man which He created in His own image. That’s includes me and the rest of humanity. As history unfolds, the fall of man changes the plot from being naïve of sin to being ambitious that would create the definition of the word “sin” as doing what is not right (4:7). Indeed they gained knowledge of good and evil, which God didn’t want them to have. All what God wanted was the man’s complete dependence to him, like the one who knows nothing except listening to the voice of God. The fall of man broke the bond of closed relationship between God and man. The intimacy gradually diminishes as they are constantly moving away from the presence of God which started from their eviction from the Garden to the east side of Eden to the land of Nod. They became more corrupt and proud, leaving God the option to wipe them out through waters (Chapter 6) and to confuse them through different languages that they may scatter over the earth (11:8). In spite of man’s wickedness, God has redemptive plan to show his very nature of love, mercy, faithfulness, and forgiveness. Learning from the history of God’s judgment, men began to call on the name of the Lord (4:26b), contrary to the scene in the Garden where it was God who calls them. Men have to seek for God now, not that God is hidden somewhere, but we are blinded by our transgression causing us to go elsewhere. Thus, I will close this paper by this prayer:
Lord, make me naïve of sin and bring me back to my original state- one who hears only your voice and does not try to raise mine before you. Create in me the image of your son Jesus Christ, restore your glory in me and make my life become a living and pleasing aroma before you. Teach us to become humble, remove the divisive spirit of pride in our church and remind us of your enduring love, your amazing grace and your free gift of salvation through your son Jesus Christ, Amen.
(Introduction to the Bible/Reflection Paper/Submitted on June 25, 2009)
The book of Genesis opens its narrative nature by telling us the history of Creation, how through God’s spoken word the earth’s “form” came into existence (Chapter 1). It continued until the earth is filled with living and non-living creatures, to which God found it good. Later, we will see the unique creation of man (2:7) and how his original nature was conceived by God (1:26-27). I’ve noticed the familiar narrative statement “And God said… and it was so.” which shows how powerful His words are, that He purposely shows His glory through His spoken words, which will bring to Him pleasure in return. That includes His original concept of man which He created in His own image. That’s includes me and the rest of humanity. As history unfolds, the fall of man changes the plot from being naïve of sin to being ambitious that would create the definition of the word “sin” as doing what is not right (4:7). Indeed they gained knowledge of good and evil, which God didn’t want them to have. All what God wanted was the man’s complete dependence to him, like the one who knows nothing except listening to the voice of God. The fall of man broke the bond of closed relationship between God and man. The intimacy gradually diminishes as they are constantly moving away from the presence of God which started from their eviction from the Garden to the east side of Eden to the land of Nod. They became more corrupt and proud, leaving God the option to wipe them out through waters (Chapter 6) and to confuse them through different languages that they may scatter over the earth (11:8). In spite of man’s wickedness, God has redemptive plan to show his very nature of love, mercy, faithfulness, and forgiveness. Learning from the history of God’s judgment, men began to call on the name of the Lord (4:26b), contrary to the scene in the Garden where it was God who calls them. Men have to seek for God now, not that God is hidden somewhere, but we are blinded by our transgression causing us to go elsewhere. Thus, I will close this paper by this prayer:
Lord, make me naïve of sin and bring me back to my original state- one who hears only your voice and does not try to raise mine before you. Create in me the image of your son Jesus Christ, restore your glory in me and make my life become a living and pleasing aroma before you. Teach us to become humble, remove the divisive spirit of pride in our church and remind us of your enduring love, your amazing grace and your free gift of salvation through your son Jesus Christ, Amen.
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