PURELY CONJECTURE, BUT STILL A DIVINE DESIGN
Steve Jobs, the founder of Apple and the man who transformed consumer technology, died on October 5, 2011 at the age of 56. The story of his final moments is positively revelatory, especially in light of what his sister, Mona Simpson, revealed in his eulogy. As we know now, Steve's final words were monosyllables, repeated three times, "Oh wow! Oh wow! Oh wow!"
Many have speculated about what Jobs saw in his final moments that caused him to speak out in this way. I know I have spent time contemplating his last words, which given the circumstance, are laden with meaning - especially in light of a few clues he left behind.
Steve Jobs' appreciation of design is legendary - meaning he passionately loved the whole process of conceiving, planning and arranging all of the elements required to produce a perfect result.
We know he had a great love for some material objects, especially those that were finely designed and crafted, such as Porsche and Mercedes cars, Henckels knives and Braun appliances, BMW motorcycles and Ansel Adams prints, Bosendorfer pianos and Bang & Olufsen audio equipment. (Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson, p. 105.)
We have heard, even sedated, how he ripped off an oxygen mask because he hated the design: "He ordered them to bring five different options for the mask and he would pick the design he liked." (He Knew He Was Right. The strange, sad, triumphant life of Steve Jobs by Lev Grossman, TIME, November 7, 2011, p. 53)
Again, Mona Simpson enlightens from his eulogy, "Before embarking, he'd looked at his sister Patty, then for a long time at his children, then at his life's partner, Laurene, and then over their shoulders past them, before saying his final words."
My conjecture - I am wondering if because of his love of design, he was actually viewing it in the scene set before him as he was breathing his last.
In her eulogy, Mona Simpson also spoke about how love was the focus of Steve Jobs' final days. "Love was his supreme virtue, his god of gods. He tracked and worried about the romantic lives of the people working with him."
Conjecture #2 - I am wondering if in his focus on love, Jobs was able to follow the thread all the way back to its source and originator - God.
Job's primary test for recruiting people in the spring of 1981 to be part of his merry band of pirates was making sure they had a passion for the product. He would sometimes bring candidates into a room where a prototype of the Mac was covered by a cloth, dramatically unveil it, and watch. "If their eyes lit up, if they went right for the mouse and started pointing and clicking, Steve would smile and hire them," recalled Andrea Cunningham. "He wanted them to say, 'Wow!'" (Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson, p. 114)
Conjecture #3 - Could it be that the designer of everything, even the afterlife, was waiting to see how Steve Jobs would respond to seeing a perfect design right before his eyes - something hidden from him in life but now revealed? Was he given a final opportunity to respond to his Creator as he took his final breath?
These conjectures are purely guesswork on my part but something I believe is worthy of God and His love for His creation. I believe He loved Steve Jobs to his last dying breath and He sought a relationship with him as he passed from this life to the next. Oh, wow!
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Friday, November 4, 2011
I've been thinking about breaches...
PARDON MY TONE!
A friend e-mailed a helpful article to me about resolving breaches in relationships. The writer of the article confessed that during a confrontation, a colleague was unable to display empathy toward him because of the tone he was using.
How interesting that the writer took full responsibility for his offensive tone over defending the strength of his position. The article went on to say that intuitive perception is a person's reality no matter if it is true or false and whatever is perceived dictates the response.
When the perception is negative - meaning if a person perceives an indifferent or dishonoring tone - it is nearly impossible for that person to overlook the offense long enough to embrace the logic of the position.
This situation then becomes an issue of what I value more - my position or the relationship. This is a good time to ask myself, is this a hill to die on? If I choose to value the relationship, then I have work to do to repair the breach. The writer of the article goes on to say that humility is the pathway to resolving a relational breach of this kind.
Recently I found myself taking issue with two individuals I care about. With the first, I chose wisely - meaning I was able to focus on honoring the person and achieving a good outcome. The happy result was a preserved relationship. But with the second, I chose poorly - meaning my passion overwhelmed me and my tone blocked out what I was attempting to say. The unhappy result was a breach in the relationship.
When a relationship suffers a breach - and over time most all will - then I must do deeds of repentance to repair it. Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom (James 3:13 ESV).
Deeds of repentance are actions that express humble, regretful sorrow for an offense. In my case, my offensive tone did not reflect value for the person or the relationship. Therefore, I could, in good conscience, admit that the perception was my responsibility and that it represented a sin against the person involved.
Wonderfully, God knows we are dust and His Word provides an excellent way to repair breaches. It is called making amends! To make amends means to put something right. In this case, I made amends by extending a sincere apology with a request for gracious forgiveness. My amends made it possible for the relationship to be restored.
It is a happy day when a breach is repaired, when a rough patch is smoothed and when fellowship is restored with a person I highly value!
Humility begins to repair,
Amends clear offending debris,
Forgiveness heals a relational breach
Between my friend and me!
A friend e-mailed a helpful article to me about resolving breaches in relationships. The writer of the article confessed that during a confrontation, a colleague was unable to display empathy toward him because of the tone he was using.
How interesting that the writer took full responsibility for his offensive tone over defending the strength of his position. The article went on to say that intuitive perception is a person's reality no matter if it is true or false and whatever is perceived dictates the response.
When the perception is negative - meaning if a person perceives an indifferent or dishonoring tone - it is nearly impossible for that person to overlook the offense long enough to embrace the logic of the position.
This situation then becomes an issue of what I value more - my position or the relationship. This is a good time to ask myself, is this a hill to die on? If I choose to value the relationship, then I have work to do to repair the breach. The writer of the article goes on to say that humility is the pathway to resolving a relational breach of this kind.
Recently I found myself taking issue with two individuals I care about. With the first, I chose wisely - meaning I was able to focus on honoring the person and achieving a good outcome. The happy result was a preserved relationship. But with the second, I chose poorly - meaning my passion overwhelmed me and my tone blocked out what I was attempting to say. The unhappy result was a breach in the relationship.
When a relationship suffers a breach - and over time most all will - then I must do deeds of repentance to repair it. Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom (James 3:13 ESV).
Deeds of repentance are actions that express humble, regretful sorrow for an offense. In my case, my offensive tone did not reflect value for the person or the relationship. Therefore, I could, in good conscience, admit that the perception was my responsibility and that it represented a sin against the person involved.
Wonderfully, God knows we are dust and His Word provides an excellent way to repair breaches. It is called making amends! To make amends means to put something right. In this case, I made amends by extending a sincere apology with a request for gracious forgiveness. My amends made it possible for the relationship to be restored.
It is a happy day when a breach is repaired, when a rough patch is smoothed and when fellowship is restored with a person I highly value!
Humility begins to repair,
Amends clear offending debris,
Forgiveness heals a relational breach
Between my friend and me!
Monday, October 24, 2011
I've been thinking about progress...
LEAD, FOLLOW OR GET OUT OF THE WAY!
In a meeting recently I heard someone say, "Lead, follow or get out of the way!" This is a pithy statement that seems familiar but requires a little follow up research. BTW - in one thread I followed, this statement was attributed to Yoda (!) then Jesus and finally Thomas Paine.
Thomas Paine was an English born American writer, theorist and activist who lived from 1737 until 1809. He was one of the great fiery voices of the American Revolution. In 1776, he published his pamphlet Common Sense, a brilliant statement of the colonist's cause.
Paine was known for stating ideas clearly and concisely. His opinions and personality aroused strong feelings in those around him. Thus, it is no wonder that his quote stayed with me long after the meeting was over.
To LEAD means to guide by going in advance.
A leader is anyone who has two characteristics: first, he is going somewhere; second, he is able to persuade other people to go with him.
Sometimes God calls me to be a good leader. When that happens, my role is to be faithful and focused on what pleases Him. The more I remain focused, the wider the circle of influence. When God places a holy zeal inside me to please Him, others who are like-minded are drawn to follow my leadership like a magnet.
To FOLLOW means to to proceed after.
Before following a leader it is wise to see if he is headed in the right direction.
Sometimes God calls me to be a good follower. When that happens, I set aside my own agenda and take up the agenda of my leader. If my leader desires to please Jesus Christ, who is the Perfect Leader, we are united in our efforts and much can be accomplished.
Jesus is the Perfect Leader because He understands the journey described in Matthew 7:13&14, For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.
To GET OUT OF THE WAY means to stop blocking passage.
A good leader inspires men to have confidence in him; a great leader inspires them to have confidence in themselves.
Sometimes God calls me to get out of the way. Sometimes He wants me to actively promote those who are following me. When this happens, I recognize "fresh legs" are needed to take a task or project to the next level.
I recently discovered I needed to get out of the way of the SoulWork curriculum. God was asking me to inspire younger women by placing confidence in them. These younger women will create opportunities for more women to experience SoulWork - opportunities I was blocking by remaining in place. When I realized what was happening, I created something new - authorized SoulWork facilitators.
In the account of King Jehoshaphat's reign over Judah in 2 Chronicles 17, the king purposefully sent officials out to strengthen his kingdom spiritually and militarily. He sent them where he could not go to teach his subjects about faith in God and loyalty to the ways of David. Verse 9 says, And they taught in Judah, having the Book of the Law of the Lord with them. They went about through all the cities of Judah and taught among the people.
It seems to me that the way to reach a greater population is like a dance - sometimes I lead, sometimes I follow, sometimes I get out of the way. O Lord, in Your grace and mercy, guide me in what I need to do. Do You want me to step up - step back - or step away?
In a meeting recently I heard someone say, "Lead, follow or get out of the way!" This is a pithy statement that seems familiar but requires a little follow up research. BTW - in one thread I followed, this statement was attributed to Yoda (!) then Jesus and finally Thomas Paine.
Thomas Paine was an English born American writer, theorist and activist who lived from 1737 until 1809. He was one of the great fiery voices of the American Revolution. In 1776, he published his pamphlet Common Sense, a brilliant statement of the colonist's cause.
Paine was known for stating ideas clearly and concisely. His opinions and personality aroused strong feelings in those around him. Thus, it is no wonder that his quote stayed with me long after the meeting was over.
To LEAD means to guide by going in advance.
A leader is anyone who has two characteristics: first, he is going somewhere; second, he is able to persuade other people to go with him.
Sometimes God calls me to be a good leader. When that happens, my role is to be faithful and focused on what pleases Him. The more I remain focused, the wider the circle of influence. When God places a holy zeal inside me to please Him, others who are like-minded are drawn to follow my leadership like a magnet.
To FOLLOW means to to proceed after.
Before following a leader it is wise to see if he is headed in the right direction.
Sometimes God calls me to be a good follower. When that happens, I set aside my own agenda and take up the agenda of my leader. If my leader desires to please Jesus Christ, who is the Perfect Leader, we are united in our efforts and much can be accomplished.
Jesus is the Perfect Leader because He understands the journey described in Matthew 7:13&14, For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.
To GET OUT OF THE WAY means to stop blocking passage.
A good leader inspires men to have confidence in him; a great leader inspires them to have confidence in themselves.
Sometimes God calls me to get out of the way. Sometimes He wants me to actively promote those who are following me. When this happens, I recognize "fresh legs" are needed to take a task or project to the next level.
I recently discovered I needed to get out of the way of the SoulWork curriculum. God was asking me to inspire younger women by placing confidence in them. These younger women will create opportunities for more women to experience SoulWork - opportunities I was blocking by remaining in place. When I realized what was happening, I created something new - authorized SoulWork facilitators.
In the account of King Jehoshaphat's reign over Judah in 2 Chronicles 17, the king purposefully sent officials out to strengthen his kingdom spiritually and militarily. He sent them where he could not go to teach his subjects about faith in God and loyalty to the ways of David. Verse 9 says, And they taught in Judah, having the Book of the Law of the Lord with them. They went about through all the cities of Judah and taught among the people.
It seems to me that the way to reach a greater population is like a dance - sometimes I lead, sometimes I follow, sometimes I get out of the way. O Lord, in Your grace and mercy, guide me in what I need to do. Do You want me to step up - step back - or step away?
Monday, October 17, 2011
I've been thinking about achievement...
A GOLDEN BOY, A GOLDEN CUP AND TWO GOLDEN OPPORTUNITIES
Steve Jobs truly was a golden boy - the greatest business executive of our era. He built a company that thrived because his products were completely innovative in nature, successfully combining artistry and technology.
Steve Jobs was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October 2003 and was told he had only months to live. Later, through further investigation, it was revealed that he had a rare form of the disease that could be controlled. Jobs eventually underwent surgery, recovered and returned. (Here, we notice that God granted him a gracious extension on his life.) During another medical leave in 2009, he received a liver transplant. (Again, God granted another brief extension.) He took a final medical leave in 2011 and this time it became permanent with his resignation as CEO on August 24.
With his recent passing, much has been written about his oscillating career of ups and downs. I just finished reading an article in TIME by Lev Grossman and Harry McCracken entitled, The Inventor of the Future (October 17, 2011).
In it, Jobs, who said little about his health issues, addressed them briefly in a commencement speech he gave at Stanford in 2005. "Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life," he said. "Don't be trapped by dogma, which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noises of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary." (page 44)
By following his heart and intuition, Steve Jobs rightfully earned a place in history alongside the greatest American inventors of all time, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. What one trait contributed most to his success?
The one trait that was most evident in Jobs was his intensity. TIME says, "This intensity encouraged a binary view of the world. ...something was either "the best thing ever" or it totally sucked." (page 34) "...Jobs' insistence on a simple, integrated approach led to astonishing products marked by delightful user experiences." (page 35)
I love the idea of following my heart and intuition - my heart is the place from which my desires spring forth - my intuition is what feels right for me to do in the moment. I believe my desires are carefully placed in my heart by God (Psalm 37:4) to give me direction and my intuition guides me step by step. However, what messes me up is that my intensity to follow His direction waxes and wanes.
What place does intensity have in my life? By intensity I mean to give force or emphasis to something. Am I staying the course? Am I remaining firm under pressure? Am I choosing to intentionally focus? Am I persistent in following through?
With all of his intensity, Steve Jobs at 56 years of age still could not beat a death sentence. Even a golden boy with two golden opportunities - two evident life extensions - could not escape the loosening of the bond of body and spirit.
Scripture says that each of us is going to his eternal home, and the mourners go about the streets (to remind us that life is short and we must chose carefully how we will live our lives) - before the silver cord is snapped, or the golden bowl is broken, ...and the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it (Ecclesiastes 12:5-7). A golden boy, a golden bowl, a life with two golden opportunities to chose wisely that eventually ends.
The book of Ecclesiastes closes with a memorable benediction - one that I can lean into with great personal intensity, Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
Just like after a storm when the clouds are swept away, Lord, give me a searingly bright vision of what matters most in this life. Keep me seeking after You with relentless intensity. Remind me that my greatest reward - my most "golden" achievement - is being the grateful recipient of Your pleasure when my spirit returns to You. Everything else is secondary.
Steve Jobs truly was a golden boy - the greatest business executive of our era. He built a company that thrived because his products were completely innovative in nature, successfully combining artistry and technology.
Steve Jobs was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October 2003 and was told he had only months to live. Later, through further investigation, it was revealed that he had a rare form of the disease that could be controlled. Jobs eventually underwent surgery, recovered and returned. (Here, we notice that God granted him a gracious extension on his life.) During another medical leave in 2009, he received a liver transplant. (Again, God granted another brief extension.) He took a final medical leave in 2011 and this time it became permanent with his resignation as CEO on August 24.
With his recent passing, much has been written about his oscillating career of ups and downs. I just finished reading an article in TIME by Lev Grossman and Harry McCracken entitled, The Inventor of the Future (October 17, 2011).
In it, Jobs, who said little about his health issues, addressed them briefly in a commencement speech he gave at Stanford in 2005. "Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life," he said. "Don't be trapped by dogma, which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noises of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary." (page 44)
By following his heart and intuition, Steve Jobs rightfully earned a place in history alongside the greatest American inventors of all time, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. What one trait contributed most to his success?
The one trait that was most evident in Jobs was his intensity. TIME says, "This intensity encouraged a binary view of the world. ...something was either "the best thing ever" or it totally sucked." (page 34) "...Jobs' insistence on a simple, integrated approach led to astonishing products marked by delightful user experiences." (page 35)
I love the idea of following my heart and intuition - my heart is the place from which my desires spring forth - my intuition is what feels right for me to do in the moment. I believe my desires are carefully placed in my heart by God (Psalm 37:4) to give me direction and my intuition guides me step by step. However, what messes me up is that my intensity to follow His direction waxes and wanes.
What place does intensity have in my life? By intensity I mean to give force or emphasis to something. Am I staying the course? Am I remaining firm under pressure? Am I choosing to intentionally focus? Am I persistent in following through?
With all of his intensity, Steve Jobs at 56 years of age still could not beat a death sentence. Even a golden boy with two golden opportunities - two evident life extensions - could not escape the loosening of the bond of body and spirit.
Scripture says that each of us is going to his eternal home, and the mourners go about the streets (to remind us that life is short and we must chose carefully how we will live our lives) - before the silver cord is snapped, or the golden bowl is broken, ...and the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it (Ecclesiastes 12:5-7). A golden boy, a golden bowl, a life with two golden opportunities to chose wisely that eventually ends.
The book of Ecclesiastes closes with a memorable benediction - one that I can lean into with great personal intensity, Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
Just like after a storm when the clouds are swept away, Lord, give me a searingly bright vision of what matters most in this life. Keep me seeking after You with relentless intensity. Remind me that my greatest reward - my most "golden" achievement - is being the grateful recipient of Your pleasure when my spirit returns to You. Everything else is secondary.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
I've been thinking about courage...
FEARLESS
So little time on earth, so many fears to manage!
NEPHO.PHOBIA - fear of clouds
OMBRO.PHOBIA - fear of rain
SELENO.PHOBIA - fear of the moon
SIDERO.PHOBIA - fear of stars
XYLO.PHOBIA - fear of forests
These are just a few fears concerning nature that I picked out of a long list of phobias. What is a phobia? It is an exaggerated, usually inexplicable and illogical, fear of a particular thing.
By the way, have you noticed that phobias/fears do not remain static in your life? They either seem to grow and overtake when you are weak or diminish and fade when you muster up courage. Courage by definition is the strength to venture, to persevere, to withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. It implies a firmness of mind - an unshakable confidence.
I noticed when I looked up the use of the word courage in Scripture, there are many occasions when individuals are instructed to "take courage" or to "take heart." Here is an example from Psalm 31:24, Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all of you, who wait for the Lord!
To take courage means to make it one's own possession by seizing it, grasping it, clutching it. In Acts 23:11, the resurrected Jesus visits Paul in prison and tells him, Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about Me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome. Jesus steadies and strengthens Paul for the task ahead by reminding him to "take courage."
In Acts 28:15 Paul thanked God when he was greeted by Roman Christians upon his arrival in Rome and it is recorded there that he took courage. Here is evidence that even Paul, a mature believer, needed inspiration and strength. He was able to grasp courage for himself and make it his own.
Courage is not the absence of fear, but the conquest of it! God instructs us to take courage by seizing it - grasping it - clutching it. God believes we are able to do this! So why is it such a difficult choice?
As my husband, Darryl, says, "It takes a greater fear to cast out a lesser fear!" Getting into one's head that displeasing God - shrinking back from His plan for my life - rationalizing outright disobedience - is a far more serious concern than dealing with my petty earthly phobias. FAR MORE SERIOUS!
So... we make it our aim to please Him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil (2 Corinthians 5:9&10).
Jesus said:
"Take courage, My son, your sins are forgiven" (Matthew 9:2).
"Daughter, take courage, your faith has made you well" (Matthew 9:22).
And then, in response to His disciples who were terrified, crying out to Him in fear, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid" (Matthew 14:27).
Yes, Lord, speak for Thy servant is listening! Help me take courage right now! Help me be fearless in the pursuit of Your pleasure and blessing on my life. Help me hold on tight to courage with all my might!
So little time on earth, so many fears to manage!
NEPHO.PHOBIA - fear of clouds
OMBRO.PHOBIA - fear of rain
SELENO.PHOBIA - fear of the moon
SIDERO.PHOBIA - fear of stars
XYLO.PHOBIA - fear of forests
These are just a few fears concerning nature that I picked out of a long list of phobias. What is a phobia? It is an exaggerated, usually inexplicable and illogical, fear of a particular thing.
By the way, have you noticed that phobias/fears do not remain static in your life? They either seem to grow and overtake when you are weak or diminish and fade when you muster up courage. Courage by definition is the strength to venture, to persevere, to withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. It implies a firmness of mind - an unshakable confidence.
I noticed when I looked up the use of the word courage in Scripture, there are many occasions when individuals are instructed to "take courage" or to "take heart." Here is an example from Psalm 31:24, Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all of you, who wait for the Lord!
To take courage means to make it one's own possession by seizing it, grasping it, clutching it. In Acts 23:11, the resurrected Jesus visits Paul in prison and tells him, Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about Me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome. Jesus steadies and strengthens Paul for the task ahead by reminding him to "take courage."
In Acts 28:15 Paul thanked God when he was greeted by Roman Christians upon his arrival in Rome and it is recorded there that he took courage. Here is evidence that even Paul, a mature believer, needed inspiration and strength. He was able to grasp courage for himself and make it his own.
Courage is not the absence of fear, but the conquest of it! God instructs us to take courage by seizing it - grasping it - clutching it. God believes we are able to do this! So why is it such a difficult choice?
As my husband, Darryl, says, "It takes a greater fear to cast out a lesser fear!" Getting into one's head that displeasing God - shrinking back from His plan for my life - rationalizing outright disobedience - is a far more serious concern than dealing with my petty earthly phobias. FAR MORE SERIOUS!
So... we make it our aim to please Him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil (2 Corinthians 5:9&10).
Jesus said:
"Take courage, My son, your sins are forgiven" (Matthew 9:2).
"Daughter, take courage, your faith has made you well" (Matthew 9:22).
And then, in response to His disciples who were terrified, crying out to Him in fear, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid" (Matthew 14:27).
Yes, Lord, speak for Thy servant is listening! Help me take courage right now! Help me be fearless in the pursuit of Your pleasure and blessing on my life. Help me hold on tight to courage with all my might!
Monday, September 26, 2011
I've been thinking about surprises...
What A Difference A Phone Call Can Make!
It was 9:14 pm on a Sunday evening, September 25, when the phone rang. Darryl was in Idaho Falls speaking at a three-day Bible conference and I was sitting at home in Scottsdale quietly watching TV. It had been a wearying week and I was trying to patch myself together and regroup.
When I picked up the phone I heard Wayne Grudem's voice on the other end of the line. It is unusual for Wayne to call our home in the evening and as I listened to him he definitely sounded mysterious. He said he had someone with him who would like to talk to me.
My mind instantly searched through a database of who that could possibly be since Wayne mentioned he was in Virginia riding in the backseat of an SUV. A very warm male voice came on the phone and said, "Hi Holly, I'm Eric Metaxas!"
Here is the back story! Over the summer my book club read Bonhoeffer by the New York Times best-selling author Eric Metaxas. According to the cover of the book, it is the biography of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, PASTOR, MARTYR, PROPHET, SPY - A Righteous Gentile vs. The Third Reich.
Through unusual circumstances in his native Germany, Dietrich Bonhoeffer became both a theologian and a spy in resistance to Adolf Hitler and his plan to exterminate the Jews of Europe. Dietrich was executed in a concentration camp for his part in a plot to assassinate Hitler in 1945 just days before the allies swarmed over the land and freed it from Nazi domination.
Over the summer, while we were in Santa Cruz, the advancement department of Phoenix Seminary called Darryl to ask him about his recommendation for a speaker for our major fundraiser in Laguna Beach in March, 2012. Having just finished Bonhoeffer, I mentioned Eric's name. Both Darryl and I agreed that he would be a fascinating speaker but neither of us knew Eric personally and we hoped he would be a good choice. May I say, that this suggestion to have Eric as our speaker is a weighty one - and one not taken lightly in my world.
So, imagine my excitement, when due to a flight mix-up, Wayne and Eric somehow met up and were traveling in the back seat of an SUV together in Virginia - both headed in the same direction to very important speaking engagements. Because Wayne had taken the lead in resolving their travel difficulties, Eric said he would "do anything" for his friend, Wayne - even calling a woman in Scottsdale to say hello in a surprising way that would make her day!!!
I love the way God knows the exact timing of when to drop down into my life a kind of super over-the-top encouragement that sends a very clear message - "I know YOU - I know YOUR work - I know YOUR faith! Keep looking up and don't grow weary in well-doing, Holly! All is well and be confident, I am at work in every detail of YOUR life!"
In the gracious warmth of Eric's voice, I felt my confidence surge that he will do a great job for us in Laguna. I am excited about the prospect of seeing him face to face - having the opportunity to learn more from his extensive research about the life of a man - Dietrich Bonhoeffer - who determined to do the will of God - even to the point of death. A man who like Jesus - courageously and humbly gave it all.
Consider Him who endured from sinners such hostility against Himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. Hebrews 12:3&4
Life is full of surprises and opportunities to see God at work! I am thankful that I matter enough to Him that He sent me a kiss via a phone call on a Sunday evening!
It was 9:14 pm on a Sunday evening, September 25, when the phone rang. Darryl was in Idaho Falls speaking at a three-day Bible conference and I was sitting at home in Scottsdale quietly watching TV. It had been a wearying week and I was trying to patch myself together and regroup.
When I picked up the phone I heard Wayne Grudem's voice on the other end of the line. It is unusual for Wayne to call our home in the evening and as I listened to him he definitely sounded mysterious. He said he had someone with him who would like to talk to me.
My mind instantly searched through a database of who that could possibly be since Wayne mentioned he was in Virginia riding in the backseat of an SUV. A very warm male voice came on the phone and said, "Hi Holly, I'm Eric Metaxas!"
Here is the back story! Over the summer my book club read Bonhoeffer by the New York Times best-selling author Eric Metaxas. According to the cover of the book, it is the biography of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, PASTOR, MARTYR, PROPHET, SPY - A Righteous Gentile vs. The Third Reich.
Through unusual circumstances in his native Germany, Dietrich Bonhoeffer became both a theologian and a spy in resistance to Adolf Hitler and his plan to exterminate the Jews of Europe. Dietrich was executed in a concentration camp for his part in a plot to assassinate Hitler in 1945 just days before the allies swarmed over the land and freed it from Nazi domination.
Over the summer, while we were in Santa Cruz, the advancement department of Phoenix Seminary called Darryl to ask him about his recommendation for a speaker for our major fundraiser in Laguna Beach in March, 2012. Having just finished Bonhoeffer, I mentioned Eric's name. Both Darryl and I agreed that he would be a fascinating speaker but neither of us knew Eric personally and we hoped he would be a good choice. May I say, that this suggestion to have Eric as our speaker is a weighty one - and one not taken lightly in my world.
So, imagine my excitement, when due to a flight mix-up, Wayne and Eric somehow met up and were traveling in the back seat of an SUV together in Virginia - both headed in the same direction to very important speaking engagements. Because Wayne had taken the lead in resolving their travel difficulties, Eric said he would "do anything" for his friend, Wayne - even calling a woman in Scottsdale to say hello in a surprising way that would make her day!!!
I love the way God knows the exact timing of when to drop down into my life a kind of super over-the-top encouragement that sends a very clear message - "I know YOU - I know YOUR work - I know YOUR faith! Keep looking up and don't grow weary in well-doing, Holly! All is well and be confident, I am at work in every detail of YOUR life!"
In the gracious warmth of Eric's voice, I felt my confidence surge that he will do a great job for us in Laguna. I am excited about the prospect of seeing him face to face - having the opportunity to learn more from his extensive research about the life of a man - Dietrich Bonhoeffer - who determined to do the will of God - even to the point of death. A man who like Jesus - courageously and humbly gave it all.
Consider Him who endured from sinners such hostility against Himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. Hebrews 12:3&4
Life is full of surprises and opportunities to see God at work! I am thankful that I matter enough to Him that He sent me a kiss via a phone call on a Sunday evening!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
I've been thinking about comfort...
AN ANGEL WATCHING OVER ME
Years ago, when my boys were young, we went through a season where they were plagued by bad dreams. In my desire to comfort them, I remembered a sweet prayer my mother taught me when I was a little girl -
Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my soul to keep
If I should die before I wake
I pray the Lord my soul to take.
In quiet moments I can still hear her voice comforting me - passing on to me something her mother taught her for moments of fear and dread. This memory led to other memories of what I learned as a child about guardian angels and how we walk in their protection even when we are unaware. Psalm 91:11&12, For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.
Out of the mists of my earliest Sunday school memories, a beautiful picture of an angel watching over children came to mind. I hurried out to a local Christian bookstore and there I found it - just as I had remembered - a picture of a majestic angel watching over children walking on a bridge over a dark and menacing precipice.
I could hardly wait to get the picture home and hang it in the boy's bedroom - a visual reminder of a deeply comforting truth. It seemed to me that almost immediately there was a kind of peace that descended upon their night terrors.
Today, I have an angel figure sitting on my bedside table near my bed. It is carved out of wood - a beautiful product I stumbled on one day while wandering through the gifts section at A.J.'s. I fell in love with it that very moment, bought it, and brought it home where it has stayed by my side to comfort me now for several years. It reminds me of these tender lines from a poignant poem, My angel ever at my side, how lovely you must be - To leave your home in heaven, to guard someone like me.
I woke up this morning grateful once again for the reminder that God is watching over every detail of my life and that in some mysterious way - angels have been given charge over me. It comforts me to know that in this season of instability the Word of the Lord stands forever secure.
Bless the Lord, O you His angels, you mighty ones who do His word... Psalm 103:20
Oh the peace of knowing that God is in control, that His angels circle all around me, that they are constantly doing His bidding, and that when I need it - He sends one of His special messengers to speak to me of His love - to remind me of His care - to gently whisper comforting truths in my ear all through the dark and lonely night!
Years ago, when my boys were young, we went through a season where they were plagued by bad dreams. In my desire to comfort them, I remembered a sweet prayer my mother taught me when I was a little girl -
Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my soul to keep
If I should die before I wake
I pray the Lord my soul to take.
In quiet moments I can still hear her voice comforting me - passing on to me something her mother taught her for moments of fear and dread. This memory led to other memories of what I learned as a child about guardian angels and how we walk in their protection even when we are unaware. Psalm 91:11&12, For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.
Out of the mists of my earliest Sunday school memories, a beautiful picture of an angel watching over children came to mind. I hurried out to a local Christian bookstore and there I found it - just as I had remembered - a picture of a majestic angel watching over children walking on a bridge over a dark and menacing precipice.
I could hardly wait to get the picture home and hang it in the boy's bedroom - a visual reminder of a deeply comforting truth. It seemed to me that almost immediately there was a kind of peace that descended upon their night terrors.
Today, I have an angel figure sitting on my bedside table near my bed. It is carved out of wood - a beautiful product I stumbled on one day while wandering through the gifts section at A.J.'s. I fell in love with it that very moment, bought it, and brought it home where it has stayed by my side to comfort me now for several years. It reminds me of these tender lines from a poignant poem, My angel ever at my side, how lovely you must be - To leave your home in heaven, to guard someone like me.
I woke up this morning grateful once again for the reminder that God is watching over every detail of my life and that in some mysterious way - angels have been given charge over me. It comforts me to know that in this season of instability the Word of the Lord stands forever secure.
Bless the Lord, O you His angels, you mighty ones who do His word... Psalm 103:20
Oh the peace of knowing that God is in control, that His angels circle all around me, that they are constantly doing His bidding, and that when I need it - He sends one of His special messengers to speak to me of His love - to remind me of His care - to gently whisper comforting truths in my ear all through the dark and lonely night!
Monday, July 25, 2011
I've been thinking about demolition...
DID A BOMB GO OFF?
We have begun the process of remodeling our townhouse which, of course, begins with demolition. This is our first major remodel and like anything new, Darryl and I are experiencing a significant learning curve.
Looking around last week, the best way to describe the present condition of our townhouse is to say that it looks like a bomb went off - especially in the kitchen and bathrooms. The floors are torn up, walls have been taken down, ceilings are being raised up. The term "mini ground zero" comes to mind!
The author of Ecclesiastes, Solomon, who is a master of word pictures, reminds us that there is an appropriate time for these events in life. Chapter 3, verse 3 says there is "a time to break down, and a time to build up."
Even though in its present state, our little townhouse has experienced severe damage and destruction, we are anticipating that eventually it will be restored to a place of beauty once again! Isn't it interesting to note that sometimes to move ahead in life, something must be torn down first?
In fact, when you think about it, isn't it true that eventually, everything is destined to be broken down? In fact, isn't it also true that some of the best things happen in our character when we, ourselves, are broken down and bereaved?
Jesus said in Matthew 5:4, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." What are the broken down and bereaved mourning? They are mourning loss of all kinds - spiritual, physical, emotional, financial. They are seeking all that God offers - His comfort, His healing and often, His forgiveness.
Wisdom dictates that everything around me is in perpetual change. The difficult days in my life are seasons of wrecking, destroying, razing, pulling down. The blessed days are seasons of creating, strengthening, building, restoring. Regardless of my circumstancces, I can say (and sing) along with Job in Job 1:21, "He (the Lord) gives and takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord."
With all this change going on around me, what is secure? Both my security in the present and my hope for the future are found in the mind of God. "Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world" (Acts 15:18). I am comforted, healed and forgiven as I seek God's perspective in every season of my life.
The book of Job finishes out with a comment about the condition of Job after his breaking down and bereavement. In Job 42:10 we read that "The Lord restored the fortunes of Job... and increased all he had twofold." Just as I can anticipate the negative (the breaking down) because God is developing my character, I can also anticipate the positive (the building up) because God promises to take care of me. I am His precious daughter and I trust Him. Blessed be the name of the Lord!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
I've been thinking about satisfaction...
THE GRATIFIED LIFE
I woke up this morning thinking about a satisfied life but before I could get out of bed that concept had already moved to a "gratified life." Let me explain. A satisfied life equals a contented life but a gratified life equals a life that brings pleasure, keen enjoyment and delight - often in surprising ways!
In conversations lately with some of my friends who lead with their hearts, I have mentioned a pyramid I visualize when I think about my own personal gratification level. In life there are different strata of fulfillment - strata meaning layers, levels or gradations that define quality of life.
The abundant life Jesus describes in the Bible is one of significant relationships - first with my God and then with my fellow human beings. The design of my pyramid descends downward from shallow relationships at the top to deep and significant relationships at the bottom.
Many years ago I made the choice to intentionally invest myself into each person that God brought across my path. I promised Him I would be faithful to step up, be alert and match the openness of others and the depth to which they were willing to go! Over the years, this commitment to go deep in relationships has developed into a concept I call life-to-life exchange.
By life-to-life exchange, I mean I give of myself, sometimes extravagantly, and when it is a profitable relationship - I receive something rich, fulfilling and extravagant in return. It is much like what Solomon said in his journal in the book of Ecclesiastes, chapter 11, verse 1, "Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days."
This return cannot be expected or manipulated, but when I find it, it adds fantastic mystery and adventure to my life! Life-to-life exchange is the most profitable investment I can make and the foundation of a gratified life.
I just finished a new biography, Bonhoeffer, by Eric Metaxas. In it, Bonhoeffer quotes "old Tholuck" who frequently asked colleagues and proteges, "How goes it with your soul?" FYI - Friedrich Tholuck (1799-1877) was a German Protestant theologian and church leader who was one of the most accurate Biblical interpreters of his generation. His theological position was orthodox, but he laid more stress upon Christian experience than upon rigid dogmatic belief.
I think Tholuck's question is a great one for plumbing the depths of what matters in this life. I have begun to use it as a tool to take me where I want to go in relationships. There is something extremely satisfying, even gratifying, about regularly visiting and evaluating the condition of our souls - together.
A gratified life is a life that is regularly experiencing happiness and pleasure. Is it too much to ask - to want - the gratified life that God has designed for me? I am willing to plumb the depths with you - because it is a fulfilling "together" sort of experience. If you are willing, let's begin by asking each other, "How goes it with your soul?"
Galatians 6:10, "So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith."
I woke up this morning thinking about a satisfied life but before I could get out of bed that concept had already moved to a "gratified life." Let me explain. A satisfied life equals a contented life but a gratified life equals a life that brings pleasure, keen enjoyment and delight - often in surprising ways!
In conversations lately with some of my friends who lead with their hearts, I have mentioned a pyramid I visualize when I think about my own personal gratification level. In life there are different strata of fulfillment - strata meaning layers, levels or gradations that define quality of life.
The abundant life Jesus describes in the Bible is one of significant relationships - first with my God and then with my fellow human beings. The design of my pyramid descends downward from shallow relationships at the top to deep and significant relationships at the bottom.
Many years ago I made the choice to intentionally invest myself into each person that God brought across my path. I promised Him I would be faithful to step up, be alert and match the openness of others and the depth to which they were willing to go! Over the years, this commitment to go deep in relationships has developed into a concept I call life-to-life exchange.
By life-to-life exchange, I mean I give of myself, sometimes extravagantly, and when it is a profitable relationship - I receive something rich, fulfilling and extravagant in return. It is much like what Solomon said in his journal in the book of Ecclesiastes, chapter 11, verse 1, "Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days."
This return cannot be expected or manipulated, but when I find it, it adds fantastic mystery and adventure to my life! Life-to-life exchange is the most profitable investment I can make and the foundation of a gratified life.
I just finished a new biography, Bonhoeffer, by Eric Metaxas. In it, Bonhoeffer quotes "old Tholuck" who frequently asked colleagues and proteges, "How goes it with your soul?" FYI - Friedrich Tholuck (1799-1877) was a German Protestant theologian and church leader who was one of the most accurate Biblical interpreters of his generation. His theological position was orthodox, but he laid more stress upon Christian experience than upon rigid dogmatic belief.
I think Tholuck's question is a great one for plumbing the depths of what matters in this life. I have begun to use it as a tool to take me where I want to go in relationships. There is something extremely satisfying, even gratifying, about regularly visiting and evaluating the condition of our souls - together.
A gratified life is a life that is regularly experiencing happiness and pleasure. Is it too much to ask - to want - the gratified life that God has designed for me? I am willing to plumb the depths with you - because it is a fulfilling "together" sort of experience. If you are willing, let's begin by asking each other, "How goes it with your soul?"
Galatians 6:10, "So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith."
Sunday, July 10, 2011
I've been thinking about pressure...
PRESSED
My mother taught me how to properly iron a shirt or blouse. (For those of you who are not familiar with an iron - it is a hand held implement with a heated flat steel base used to smooth clothes and linen!)
First, you iron both sides of the collar, then you iron and crease the sleeves and then you iron the rest of the garment. Impressed? Well, don't be - because even though I do know how to iron - ironing has fallen on hard times in my home. I must confess that I buy things that need the smallest amount of maintenance possible - and even pass on things I like because of the amount of time I would need to invest to keep them looking nice.
When I cannot escape ironing, I do several things. I look for hanging threads and cut them off; I square up the seams and make sure everything is matched; and sometimes, I even poke small snags back into the reverse side of the material.
Recently when I was ironing, I was thinking how important it is to iron items once in a while because when I do, I bring them back to their most perfect state. This thought led me to think about how God sometimes has to PRESS me to get me back to alignment with Him and His perfect plan for my life.
Let me hasten to say that nobody likes to be PRESSED! In Psalm 38:2, David complained about how he felt when he said, "Thy hand has pressed down on me." When I studied the context of this verse, I learned that Psalm 38 is a "penitential" psalm because it acknowledges the writer's sins which lie behind the troubles he is experiencing.
I do know that sometimes when I am PRESSED, it is because of my own foolish choices. There is a line from an old Scotch-Irish prayer that fits here. "Lord, grant that I may always be right, for Thou knowest I am hard to turn." Did I mention that my ancestors were the quarrelsome and obstinate Scotch-Irish?
And then, sometimes when I am PRESSED, it is because of the sins of others over which I have absolutely no control. Whatever the cause, however, the physical and emotional distress is the same.
To be PRESSED means to undergo the continuous physical force of pressure in order to be flattened or shaped. Yuck! I can tell you right now that this is NOT a good place to be... but evidently a necessary one.
I could certainly make a substantial list of pressures that would make you feel sorry for me right here and right now. But, the truth is that when I am PRESSED back to my foundation, I eventually must turn my focus back to God alone and let Him trim my hanging threads, square up my seams and poke my snags back where they belong. This is ultimately exactly where my Heavenly Father wants me to be - looking up and walking in humility!
I find that waiting for things to resolve is often so very difficult - and I know you do as well. Psalm 38:15 goes on to remind each of us that as we wait on God to do His work in us, we share the heart of David when he wrote, "But for You, O Lord, do I wait; it is You (and You alone), O Lord, my God, who will answer."
My mother taught me how to properly iron a shirt or blouse. (For those of you who are not familiar with an iron - it is a hand held implement with a heated flat steel base used to smooth clothes and linen!)
First, you iron both sides of the collar, then you iron and crease the sleeves and then you iron the rest of the garment. Impressed? Well, don't be - because even though I do know how to iron - ironing has fallen on hard times in my home. I must confess that I buy things that need the smallest amount of maintenance possible - and even pass on things I like because of the amount of time I would need to invest to keep them looking nice.
When I cannot escape ironing, I do several things. I look for hanging threads and cut them off; I square up the seams and make sure everything is matched; and sometimes, I even poke small snags back into the reverse side of the material.
Recently when I was ironing, I was thinking how important it is to iron items once in a while because when I do, I bring them back to their most perfect state. This thought led me to think about how God sometimes has to PRESS me to get me back to alignment with Him and His perfect plan for my life.
Let me hasten to say that nobody likes to be PRESSED! In Psalm 38:2, David complained about how he felt when he said, "Thy hand has pressed down on me." When I studied the context of this verse, I learned that Psalm 38 is a "penitential" psalm because it acknowledges the writer's sins which lie behind the troubles he is experiencing.
I do know that sometimes when I am PRESSED, it is because of my own foolish choices. There is a line from an old Scotch-Irish prayer that fits here. "Lord, grant that I may always be right, for Thou knowest I am hard to turn." Did I mention that my ancestors were the quarrelsome and obstinate Scotch-Irish?
And then, sometimes when I am PRESSED, it is because of the sins of others over which I have absolutely no control. Whatever the cause, however, the physical and emotional distress is the same.
To be PRESSED means to undergo the continuous physical force of pressure in order to be flattened or shaped. Yuck! I can tell you right now that this is NOT a good place to be... but evidently a necessary one.
I could certainly make a substantial list of pressures that would make you feel sorry for me right here and right now. But, the truth is that when I am PRESSED back to my foundation, I eventually must turn my focus back to God alone and let Him trim my hanging threads, square up my seams and poke my snags back where they belong. This is ultimately exactly where my Heavenly Father wants me to be - looking up and walking in humility!
I find that waiting for things to resolve is often so very difficult - and I know you do as well. Psalm 38:15 goes on to remind each of us that as we wait on God to do His work in us, we share the heart of David when he wrote, "But for You, O Lord, do I wait; it is You (and You alone), O Lord, my God, who will answer."
Monday, June 6, 2011
I've been thinking about apples...
APPLEOLOGY
Appleology is - the study of - and observations about - apples!
During our last Phoenix Seminary spring break, Darryl and I enjoyed some time in Watsonville, California. Watsonville is a gardener's paradise. One of our favorite places is a plant nursery which we visit as often as we can. While there, we discovered a photo collage in the gift shop capturing the same scene in a local apple orchard over the course of all four seasons. At the top of the collage someone had added the term - appleology!
We were so excited that we purchased the collage and then afterward tried to figure out where to put it! You see, we have loved apples for years, especially since Darryl taught through the book of Ecclesiastes and began shaping his own unique version of "appleology" theology!
My love of apples began early. Growing up in Iowa we had an abundance of apple trees. As a child I remember hearing about settlers who moved westward across America, carrying apple seedling trees with them. During the 1800's, a pioneer apple planter named John Chapman distributed apples seeds and sprouts to settlers and he became known as Johnny Appleseed! He left behind a tasty legacy for future generations.
Over the years our appleology theology has grown. Here are three of our favorite observations:
1) Life is like a conveyor belt of apples with one apple arriving every 24 hours - extract as much enjoyment as you can by taking the biggest bite possible!
You may not know that there are thousands of varieties of apples. You are probably familiar with some of best known varieties - Delicious, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Jonathan, McIntosh, Rome Beauty, to name just a few. Their color ranges from various shades of red -to green - to yellow. Whatever the color, they are juicy and delicious!
2) You can count the number of seeds in an apple, but only God can count the number of apples in a seed.
The apple is a pome - that is, a fruit with a more fleshy outer layer, a paperlike core, and more than one seed. The seeds - usually five - are enclosed in the core. Each seed has the potential of producing a tree that may live as long as 100 years - similar to a long human lifespan - and each tree can produce thousands of apples.
3) Even bad apples - the kind that cause us to cringe - can be embraced because they make us better people!
Since humans enjoy apples, it follows that pests would, too. So, once in a while, you might find a wormlike larva called an apple maggot in your apple. That's because the female fruit fly lays its eggs under the skin of apples. The apple maggots which hatch from these eggs burrow through the flesh of the apple, leaving rusty streaks in it. YUCK! We all have had the experience of biting into a juicy, delicious apple and seeing the path of a worm - or worse - seeing half of a worm!
Not all apples are the same - some are sweet, some are sour, some have worms. It is my choice to seek to EXTRACT as much enjoyment as I can from each moment, to remember that my life can IMPACT future generations tremendously and to choose to EMBRACE adversity as much as the good times! The truth is - each apple is what it is - a simple but graphic reminder that I am dust and my days on earth are precious and few. APPLEOLOGY!
Appleology is - the study of - and observations about - apples!
During our last Phoenix Seminary spring break, Darryl and I enjoyed some time in Watsonville, California. Watsonville is a gardener's paradise. One of our favorite places is a plant nursery which we visit as often as we can. While there, we discovered a photo collage in the gift shop capturing the same scene in a local apple orchard over the course of all four seasons. At the top of the collage someone had added the term - appleology!
We were so excited that we purchased the collage and then afterward tried to figure out where to put it! You see, we have loved apples for years, especially since Darryl taught through the book of Ecclesiastes and began shaping his own unique version of "appleology" theology!
My love of apples began early. Growing up in Iowa we had an abundance of apple trees. As a child I remember hearing about settlers who moved westward across America, carrying apple seedling trees with them. During the 1800's, a pioneer apple planter named John Chapman distributed apples seeds and sprouts to settlers and he became known as Johnny Appleseed! He left behind a tasty legacy for future generations.
Over the years our appleology theology has grown. Here are three of our favorite observations:
1) Life is like a conveyor belt of apples with one apple arriving every 24 hours - extract as much enjoyment as you can by taking the biggest bite possible!
You may not know that there are thousands of varieties of apples. You are probably familiar with some of best known varieties - Delicious, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Jonathan, McIntosh, Rome Beauty, to name just a few. Their color ranges from various shades of red -to green - to yellow. Whatever the color, they are juicy and delicious!
2) You can count the number of seeds in an apple, but only God can count the number of apples in a seed.
The apple is a pome - that is, a fruit with a more fleshy outer layer, a paperlike core, and more than one seed. The seeds - usually five - are enclosed in the core. Each seed has the potential of producing a tree that may live as long as 100 years - similar to a long human lifespan - and each tree can produce thousands of apples.
3) Even bad apples - the kind that cause us to cringe - can be embraced because they make us better people!
Since humans enjoy apples, it follows that pests would, too. So, once in a while, you might find a wormlike larva called an apple maggot in your apple. That's because the female fruit fly lays its eggs under the skin of apples. The apple maggots which hatch from these eggs burrow through the flesh of the apple, leaving rusty streaks in it. YUCK! We all have had the experience of biting into a juicy, delicious apple and seeing the path of a worm - or worse - seeing half of a worm!
Not all apples are the same - some are sweet, some are sour, some have worms. It is my choice to seek to EXTRACT as much enjoyment as I can from each moment, to remember that my life can IMPACT future generations tremendously and to choose to EMBRACE adversity as much as the good times! The truth is - each apple is what it is - a simple but graphic reminder that I am dust and my days on earth are precious and few. APPLEOLOGY!
Monday, May 30, 2011
I've been thinking about love...
Animated by Love
In John chapter 13 verses 34 and 35, Jesus says, A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.
Jesus transforms the original concept of loving - from loving your neighbor as yourself - to loving just as Jesus loves. This implies a kind of love where someone is even willing to lay down their life for another. Dramatic yes, but not often required from us today. However, what is required is a selfless focus on another person that requires dying to ourselves and our need to be the narcissistic center of our universe.
Darryl mentioned the phrase, "animated by love" in his sermon yesterday. I wrote it down in my Bible in John 13 and this morning I woke up thinking about it once again. When God wakes me up early, it is usually a sign that a blog is percolating!
In thinking about the idea of love, I remember an illustration about excellent loving that I have recorded in my life goals. It goes like this:
Imagine each person I interact with wears a strip of litmus paper on their forehead, designed to reveal the presence of love or hate in me - and all the gradations in between. Now imagine watching that litmus paper - as I encourage or discourage, lift up or tear down, make an emotional deposit or withdrawal.
This kind of visual aid holds me accountable to myself for my attitudes and reminds me of my continual dependence on God to supply me with a never-ending stream of unconditional love from His reservoir.
To animate something is to give it life. What a beautiful picture is created in my mind when I think about my spirit filling up like a balloon with God's love - full of vigor and zest. BTW - When you blend vigor and zest (my favorite "Z" word) you get an intense effect of enhanced enjoyment!
So, in essence, both people are blessed by animated love - the giver and the receiver. The more love I pour out - the more rich, vigorous and zesty my life becomes. Imagine our world if everyone operated this way! We would all be stumbling over each other to love anyone in sight and the world would be a very different place!
John 15:13, Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
In John chapter 13 verses 34 and 35, Jesus says, A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.
Jesus transforms the original concept of loving - from loving your neighbor as yourself - to loving just as Jesus loves. This implies a kind of love where someone is even willing to lay down their life for another. Dramatic yes, but not often required from us today. However, what is required is a selfless focus on another person that requires dying to ourselves and our need to be the narcissistic center of our universe.
Darryl mentioned the phrase, "animated by love" in his sermon yesterday. I wrote it down in my Bible in John 13 and this morning I woke up thinking about it once again. When God wakes me up early, it is usually a sign that a blog is percolating!
In thinking about the idea of love, I remember an illustration about excellent loving that I have recorded in my life goals. It goes like this:
Imagine each person I interact with wears a strip of litmus paper on their forehead, designed to reveal the presence of love or hate in me - and all the gradations in between. Now imagine watching that litmus paper - as I encourage or discourage, lift up or tear down, make an emotional deposit or withdrawal.
This kind of visual aid holds me accountable to myself for my attitudes and reminds me of my continual dependence on God to supply me with a never-ending stream of unconditional love from His reservoir.
To animate something is to give it life. What a beautiful picture is created in my mind when I think about my spirit filling up like a balloon with God's love - full of vigor and zest. BTW - When you blend vigor and zest (my favorite "Z" word) you get an intense effect of enhanced enjoyment!
So, in essence, both people are blessed by animated love - the giver and the receiver. The more love I pour out - the more rich, vigorous and zesty my life becomes. Imagine our world if everyone operated this way! We would all be stumbling over each other to love anyone in sight and the world would be a very different place!
John 15:13, Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
I've been thinking about predictability...
Holly Linda DelHousaye's Rules to Live By
Maybe you are a fan of NCIS like I am and you have heard Leroy Jethro Gibbs refer to his rules, an extensive series of guidelines (50+) which make up a code that he lives by and teaches people he works closely with.
Apparently, when Gibbs met his first wife, Shannon, she told him at their first meeting that, "Everyone needs a code to live by." Years later, after their marriage, Gibbs began writing his code of rules down, keeping them in a small tin inside his house.
I discovered that some fans pay such close attention to every detail in the NCIS scripts, that they can actually point out which programs make references to the individual rules, their rule numbers and even when there are discrepancies.
With all this stimulation to think about rules of engagement with life, I have been evaluating if I have a code of rules that I live by and what they are. I discovered, of course, that I do have a code that guides me but I have never taken the time to write my thoughts down before.
The last couple of days I have been busy gathering a few of my personal rules and, if you don't mind, I would love to share them with you:
Rule # 1: Whatever you do, do it with all your heart.
Rule # 2: Wherever you are, be all there.
Rule # 3: Don't just take up space - make your life count.
Rule # 4: Pay attention when God speaks.
Rule # 5: If you can bless a worthy person, do it.
Rule # 6: Respect authority and submit to it.
Rule # 7: Hang around good people and they will rub off on you.
Rule # 8: Chase every detail down when people are involved.
Rule # 9: Stick together - it's safer!
Rule #10: If you can pray with someone in the moment, do it.
Rule #11: When faced with a choice to encourage or discourage, always encourage.
Rule #12: Value compassion - it brings people together.
Rule #13: Embrace informal authority as far more valuable than formal authority.
Rule #14: Use the HUG - SLUG - HUG approach if forced to correct someone.
Rule #15: Understand that being the boss leads to even more restraints - not less.
Rule #16: To be successful you must build a strong support system and maintain it.
Rule #17: Cherish laughter - it is an instant vacation.
Rule #18: If you are in charge of a meeting, end at the posted time.
Rule #19: When you lead, do so excellently by being diligent and careful.
Rule #20: Life brings strange twists - adapt!
I know there are many more where these came from. I am wondering if I will eventually have 50+, too, that will help others know me and what I value. I think Leroy Jethro Gibbs is a fascinating character and so, apparently, do many others. We are drawn to someone who stands for something instead of falling for everything!
Maybe you are a fan of NCIS like I am and you have heard Leroy Jethro Gibbs refer to his rules, an extensive series of guidelines (50+) which make up a code that he lives by and teaches people he works closely with.
Apparently, when Gibbs met his first wife, Shannon, she told him at their first meeting that, "Everyone needs a code to live by." Years later, after their marriage, Gibbs began writing his code of rules down, keeping them in a small tin inside his house.
I discovered that some fans pay such close attention to every detail in the NCIS scripts, that they can actually point out which programs make references to the individual rules, their rule numbers and even when there are discrepancies.
With all this stimulation to think about rules of engagement with life, I have been evaluating if I have a code of rules that I live by and what they are. I discovered, of course, that I do have a code that guides me but I have never taken the time to write my thoughts down before.
The last couple of days I have been busy gathering a few of my personal rules and, if you don't mind, I would love to share them with you:
Rule # 1: Whatever you do, do it with all your heart.
Rule # 2: Wherever you are, be all there.
Rule # 3: Don't just take up space - make your life count.
Rule # 4: Pay attention when God speaks.
Rule # 5: If you can bless a worthy person, do it.
Rule # 6: Respect authority and submit to it.
Rule # 7: Hang around good people and they will rub off on you.
Rule # 8: Chase every detail down when people are involved.
Rule # 9: Stick together - it's safer!
Rule #10: If you can pray with someone in the moment, do it.
Rule #11: When faced with a choice to encourage or discourage, always encourage.
Rule #12: Value compassion - it brings people together.
Rule #13: Embrace informal authority as far more valuable than formal authority.
Rule #14: Use the HUG - SLUG - HUG approach if forced to correct someone.
Rule #15: Understand that being the boss leads to even more restraints - not less.
Rule #16: To be successful you must build a strong support system and maintain it.
Rule #17: Cherish laughter - it is an instant vacation.
Rule #18: If you are in charge of a meeting, end at the posted time.
Rule #19: When you lead, do so excellently by being diligent and careful.
Rule #20: Life brings strange twists - adapt!
I know there are many more where these came from. I am wondering if I will eventually have 50+, too, that will help others know me and what I value. I think Leroy Jethro Gibbs is a fascinating character and so, apparently, do many others. We are drawn to someone who stands for something instead of falling for everything!
Monday, May 16, 2011
I've been thinking about birthdays...
62 CANDLES
Today, May 16th, is my birthday but instead of singing 16 Candles by Roy Orbison, I've been hearing 62 Candles by Darryl DelHousaye! Here are his new words to an old original:
Happy birthday, happy birthday, baby
Oh, I love you so
62 candles make a frightening sight
Way more bright than your eyes tonight (than your eyes tonight-oh!)
Blow out the candles, try to huff and puff
Call 9-1-1 when it gets too tough (when it gets too tough)
You're only 62 (62)
But you're my middle age queen (you're my queen)
- He redeemed himself here -
You're the prettiest, loveliest girl I've ever seen (I've ever seen-oh!)
62 candles in my heart will glow
For ever and ever for I love you so (for I love you so)
You're only 62 (62)
But you're my middle age queen (you're my queen)
You're the prettiest, loveliest girl I've ever seen (I've ever seen-oh!)
62 candles in my heart will glow
For ever and ever for I love you so (for I love you so)
For I love you so!!!
Birthdays are birth anniversaries that remind me to celebrate the goodness of God. They are opportunities to break out of my normal routines, kick up my heels, and openly express how satisfied I am with my life.
This has been a good day! I have been deluged by friends on facebook. With uncharacteristic spontaneity, Darryl and I had breakfast together at The Original Pancake House this morning. I opened a beautiful Nordstrom's package I had been holding until today to find a fabulous leopard bag from a generous friend.
My mailbox was jammed with thoughtful cards. I feel blessed!
It has been said that a wise husband makes his wife's birthday cake large enough to make it memorable but small enough so it cannot hold all the candles! I say let it all hang out! Make it large enough for all the candles! 62 candles really don't make a frightening sight - they just make the festivities extra, extra bright!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
I've been thinking about communication...
The Samuel Precedent
A friend mentioned to me how she finds the time of day recorded on my blogs very interesting. I have to admit there have been some that screamed to be written in the very early hours of the morning. Why did they have to be dealt with just then? Because when the Lord speaks to me, I have learned to say, in earnest, "Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening!"
I took the opportunity to share with my friend how God communicates to me by using The Samuel Precedent. To understand what I mean by that, I need to take you to 1 Samuel 3:1-9 in the Amplified Bible.
Now the boy Samuel ministered to the Lord before Eli. The word of the Lord was rare and precious in those days; there was no frequent or widely spread vision (but that is about to change!)
The story goes on to record that the Lord calls Samuel in the night, but Samuel thinks it is Eli calling. When the Lord called, Samuel! And he answered, Here I am. He ran to Eli and said, Here I am, for you called me. Eli said, I did not call you; lie down again. So he went and lay down.
The Lord called again and again, eventually calling Samuel three times, each time with more intensity. Finally, the elderly Eli perceives just who is calling and he instructs Samuel about what to do. Then Eli perceived that the Lord was calling the boy. So Eli said to Samuel, Go, lie down. And if He calls you, you shall say, Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening. So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
Then the Lord once again called as at other times, Samuel! Samuel! And Samuel answered, Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening. Samuel then receives his first communication from the Lord.
So often the themes of my blogs are the answers to prayers I have breathed over concerns in my life. Regularly I ask Him, "What should I do, Lord?" And then, I wait, for the moment He calls my name. When He calls, many times during the night, I have learned to respond with, "Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening. Speak, Lord, and I will get up and run to write down the insights and perspectives You are giving to me right now. Thank you, Lord, for communicating to me. It is precious to hear Your voice."
I am not alone in embracing The Samuel Precedent. It is interesting to note that the Lord communicated with other individuals at crucial points in their lives, e.g. Abraham (Genesis 22:11), Jacob (Genesis 46:2) and Moses (Exodus 3:4).
So don't be intimidated by those who may not understand how God communicates to you. Celebrate His goodness to you and the fact that He knows your name. And then, listen with eager ears for His message because He changes the courses of our lives when He communicates!
The Lord told Samuel, Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which both ears of all who hear it shall tingle. 1 Samuel 3:11
A friend mentioned to me how she finds the time of day recorded on my blogs very interesting. I have to admit there have been some that screamed to be written in the very early hours of the morning. Why did they have to be dealt with just then? Because when the Lord speaks to me, I have learned to say, in earnest, "Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening!"
I took the opportunity to share with my friend how God communicates to me by using The Samuel Precedent. To understand what I mean by that, I need to take you to 1 Samuel 3:1-9 in the Amplified Bible.
Now the boy Samuel ministered to the Lord before Eli. The word of the Lord was rare and precious in those days; there was no frequent or widely spread vision (but that is about to change!)
The story goes on to record that the Lord calls Samuel in the night, but Samuel thinks it is Eli calling. When the Lord called, Samuel! And he answered, Here I am. He ran to Eli and said, Here I am, for you called me. Eli said, I did not call you; lie down again. So he went and lay down.
The Lord called again and again, eventually calling Samuel three times, each time with more intensity. Finally, the elderly Eli perceives just who is calling and he instructs Samuel about what to do. Then Eli perceived that the Lord was calling the boy. So Eli said to Samuel, Go, lie down. And if He calls you, you shall say, Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening. So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
Then the Lord once again called as at other times, Samuel! Samuel! And Samuel answered, Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening. Samuel then receives his first communication from the Lord.
So often the themes of my blogs are the answers to prayers I have breathed over concerns in my life. Regularly I ask Him, "What should I do, Lord?" And then, I wait, for the moment He calls my name. When He calls, many times during the night, I have learned to respond with, "Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening. Speak, Lord, and I will get up and run to write down the insights and perspectives You are giving to me right now. Thank you, Lord, for communicating to me. It is precious to hear Your voice."
I am not alone in embracing The Samuel Precedent. It is interesting to note that the Lord communicated with other individuals at crucial points in their lives, e.g. Abraham (Genesis 22:11), Jacob (Genesis 46:2) and Moses (Exodus 3:4).
So don't be intimidated by those who may not understand how God communicates to you. Celebrate His goodness to you and the fact that He knows your name. And then, listen with eager ears for His message because He changes the courses of our lives when He communicates!
The Lord told Samuel, Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which both ears of all who hear it shall tingle. 1 Samuel 3:11
Sunday, May 8, 2011
I've been thinking about goals...
CONSECRATION, COMPASSION & COLLABORATION
When the storms of life become intense, I pull back to solid ground. My solid ground is the stability and focus of intentionality I have found in creating God-honoring life goals.
My life goals are largely attitudinal and profoundly simple. I have three. They are -to bring glory to God - to honor covenant relationships - and - to impact my world. This year I decided to strengthen them for greater impact by adding focus words.
Here are my focus words along with the Scriptural support:
1) TO BRING GLORY TO GOD - Consecration
Consecration means to be devoted with deep solemnity and dedication. Long ago I decided to make it my aim to please an audience of ONE. 2 Corinthians 5:9, So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please Him. (ESV)
Consecration keeps bringing me back to humility before God, realizing that I must continually submit my will to Him. Each time I submit I find renewed peace and joy flooding into my soul. Why would I want to live any other way?
2) TO HONOR COVENANT RELATIONSHIPS - Compassion
Compassion means to sympathize with a desire to alleviate distress. I honor my covenant relationships by prioritizing and cherishing them. Proverbs 11:25, Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered. (ESV)
Compassion drives so many of the choices I make as I spend time thinking about tangible ways to help out, lift up and and make positive deposits into the lives of those I love. I find that generosity expressed in sympathetic words and kind gestures is a huge factor in meeting needs - especially those pressing in at the moment. Why would I want to live any other way?
3) TO IMPACT MY WORLD - Collaboration
Collaboration means to work jointly especially in an intellectual endeavor. I enjoy studying how teams are built, how they work together and I contribute wholeheartedly whenever I can. Hebrews 13:16, Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. (ESV)
My secondary spiritual gift is organization. I often remind myself that organizers feel a tremendous joy and fulfillment in seeing all the components of a project come together so that others can benefit from and enjoy the results of their efforts. Collaboration fleshes out the components so that there can be a successful outcome with blessings shared all around. Why would I want to live any other way?
These three focus words - consecration - compassion - collaboration - anchor me to hope and the perspective God planted in my heart during quiet listening times. As I fight to regain my balance during the raging of a storm, I do know that when the storm has ceased, I will be standing firmly on solid ground once again. Why would I want to live any other way?
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you many ABOUND in hope. Romans 15:13 (ESV)
When the storms of life become intense, I pull back to solid ground. My solid ground is the stability and focus of intentionality I have found in creating God-honoring life goals.
My life goals are largely attitudinal and profoundly simple. I have three. They are -to bring glory to God - to honor covenant relationships - and - to impact my world. This year I decided to strengthen them for greater impact by adding focus words.
Here are my focus words along with the Scriptural support:
1) TO BRING GLORY TO GOD - Consecration
Consecration means to be devoted with deep solemnity and dedication. Long ago I decided to make it my aim to please an audience of ONE. 2 Corinthians 5:9, So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please Him. (ESV)
Consecration keeps bringing me back to humility before God, realizing that I must continually submit my will to Him. Each time I submit I find renewed peace and joy flooding into my soul. Why would I want to live any other way?
2) TO HONOR COVENANT RELATIONSHIPS - Compassion
Compassion means to sympathize with a desire to alleviate distress. I honor my covenant relationships by prioritizing and cherishing them. Proverbs 11:25, Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered. (ESV)
Compassion drives so many of the choices I make as I spend time thinking about tangible ways to help out, lift up and and make positive deposits into the lives of those I love. I find that generosity expressed in sympathetic words and kind gestures is a huge factor in meeting needs - especially those pressing in at the moment. Why would I want to live any other way?
3) TO IMPACT MY WORLD - Collaboration
Collaboration means to work jointly especially in an intellectual endeavor. I enjoy studying how teams are built, how they work together and I contribute wholeheartedly whenever I can. Hebrews 13:16, Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. (ESV)
My secondary spiritual gift is organization. I often remind myself that organizers feel a tremendous joy and fulfillment in seeing all the components of a project come together so that others can benefit from and enjoy the results of their efforts. Collaboration fleshes out the components so that there can be a successful outcome with blessings shared all around. Why would I want to live any other way?
These three focus words - consecration - compassion - collaboration - anchor me to hope and the perspective God planted in my heart during quiet listening times. As I fight to regain my balance during the raging of a storm, I do know that when the storm has ceased, I will be standing firmly on solid ground once again. Why would I want to live any other way?
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you many ABOUND in hope. Romans 15:13 (ESV)
Friday, April 22, 2011
I've been thinking about leadership...
HOW WOMEN EXCEL
I love the idea of following a thread in Scripture and then finding gems of wisdom embedded in commentaries. Wow! That happened to me this week when I happened upon Proverbs 24:3-6.
Here is what the passage says: By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might, for by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in the abundance of counselors there is victory.
Here are some of the thoughts I gleaned from a helpful commentary. These two sayings testify that wisdom is crucial to success, whether building a home or waging war. Amen! When I think about the general activity of women, it surrounds a home and homebuilding and then a career - women GATHER! When I think about the general activity of men, it surrounds strategizing how to provide for a family, making a satisfactory living and even sometimes making war - men HUNT!
Building houses and establishing households are peacetime activities. By their juxtaposition, therefore, these four verses encompass major aspects of human life and activity and assert that wisdom is equally necessary in each of these areas of life, thus encouraging those who seek success to seek it through wisdom. Amen and amen! When I as a woman go about my homebuilding activities I am seeking to beautify my environment with "all precious and pleasant riches." And, as I age, I have found my influence extends past my home which takes me into the realm of leadership in the community.
The humility that encourages a person to seek advice comes from knowing that no one is omniscient or omni-competent (!) and that wisdom must be sought. The wise person therefore looks for ways to strengthen their ability to meet daily needs by increasing the knowledge that they already possess. Then the plans, which are based on insights of a number of people, are much more likely to succeed, since their joint strengths will cancel out each other's weaknesses. Humility looks good on everyone - men and women alike. Humility invites healthy collaboration with others which in turn produces a greater, more effective whole.
The theme of planning is thus integrally related to that of diligence, since success crowns diligent planning, whether one is building a house, establishing a household or preparing for war. I am affirmed in my leadership when I realize I control the amount of diligence and care I bring to each new enterprise. When I keep my head down and work to make each piece of a project excellent, then the whole will be excellent. The process makes me an excellent leader, whether I am acknowledged or not. I know what I am capable of and that confidence settles down deep into my soul.
These verses do not guarantee success in such enterprises. They do, however, reflect the overwhelming conviction of Proverbs concerning diligence and care. These characterize a life lived in the fear of the Lord and tend to reap success.
How can a man understand a women's leadership language? Women lead through applying great diligence and care whether in building a home or building a business or ministry. They excel at providing "precious and pleasant riches" for everyone who frequents their environment. Praise God for women in leadership. We are all blessed by it!
I love the idea of following a thread in Scripture and then finding gems of wisdom embedded in commentaries. Wow! That happened to me this week when I happened upon Proverbs 24:3-6.
Here is what the passage says: By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might, for by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in the abundance of counselors there is victory.
Here are some of the thoughts I gleaned from a helpful commentary. These two sayings testify that wisdom is crucial to success, whether building a home or waging war. Amen! When I think about the general activity of women, it surrounds a home and homebuilding and then a career - women GATHER! When I think about the general activity of men, it surrounds strategizing how to provide for a family, making a satisfactory living and even sometimes making war - men HUNT!
Building houses and establishing households are peacetime activities. By their juxtaposition, therefore, these four verses encompass major aspects of human life and activity and assert that wisdom is equally necessary in each of these areas of life, thus encouraging those who seek success to seek it through wisdom. Amen and amen! When I as a woman go about my homebuilding activities I am seeking to beautify my environment with "all precious and pleasant riches." And, as I age, I have found my influence extends past my home which takes me into the realm of leadership in the community.
The humility that encourages a person to seek advice comes from knowing that no one is omniscient or omni-competent (!) and that wisdom must be sought. The wise person therefore looks for ways to strengthen their ability to meet daily needs by increasing the knowledge that they already possess. Then the plans, which are based on insights of a number of people, are much more likely to succeed, since their joint strengths will cancel out each other's weaknesses. Humility looks good on everyone - men and women alike. Humility invites healthy collaboration with others which in turn produces a greater, more effective whole.
The theme of planning is thus integrally related to that of diligence, since success crowns diligent planning, whether one is building a house, establishing a household or preparing for war. I am affirmed in my leadership when I realize I control the amount of diligence and care I bring to each new enterprise. When I keep my head down and work to make each piece of a project excellent, then the whole will be excellent. The process makes me an excellent leader, whether I am acknowledged or not. I know what I am capable of and that confidence settles down deep into my soul.
These verses do not guarantee success in such enterprises. They do, however, reflect the overwhelming conviction of Proverbs concerning diligence and care. These characterize a life lived in the fear of the Lord and tend to reap success.
How can a man understand a women's leadership language? Women lead through applying great diligence and care whether in building a home or building a business or ministry. They excel at providing "precious and pleasant riches" for everyone who frequents their environment. Praise God for women in leadership. We are all blessed by it!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
I've been thinking about sobriety...
THE AFTERMATH
When I say I have been thinking about sobriety, I want to clarify that I am referring to "emotional sobriety." In his article Achieving Emotional Sobriety, author Dr. David Hawkins offers this definition:
"Emotional sobriety, as I define it, applies to maintaining emotional balance. It means attending to our emotional life when we are angry, discouraged and frustrated. During these times we are likely to react and react again, creating unbalance in our relationships."
One of the things Dr. Hawkins reminds me to do to achieve emotional sobriety is to SLOW THINGS DOWN - in every aspect of my life. He suggests taking time out to put things into perspective by being intentional about what I want to say and how I want to act, instead of becoming emotionally reactive.
And so, may I say that there has been a perplexing aftermath from the February weekend in Laguna when Phoenix Seminary was blessed by a huge jump in resources. When I researched what "aftermath" means the first definition was "a second crop of growth" which is intriguing indeed! Who knew there would be such monumental second growth from our experience?
Before we parted from Bruce Wilkinson at the end of the Laguna weekend, he predicted that we would be attacked by a crisis of faith which would test our belief in the days ahead. Ominously, I noted that the dictionary definition of aftermath did add, "the period immediately following a usually ruinous event" such as "in the aftermath of the war."
Let me hasten to say that God is still on His throne and I am confident that His purposes are prevailing. However, I have found myself in unknown territory after experiencing a particularly strong outburst of the presence of God in my life. I haven't written any blogs for several weeks because I have been doing what Dr. Hawkins suggested in his article - slowing down to acquire perspective.
What are the distinctives of this unknown territory? It seems to me that there are great paradoxes - wonderment at all the possibilities that resources provide but deep concern that those resources be stewarded well. Amazement that many people committed to stand with us but more sobriety than ever in managing all the expectations of relationships. Delight at what was accomplished by working together but consternation and heartbreak over emotional reactions and questioning of motives.
In my slowing-down-time, God has given me the perspective that the winds of war will rage on - battle, victory, crisis of belief, and then the marvelous purifying of faith. I am staying calm as I survey God's sanctification process and the incremental growth spurts that sustain it! I am disciplining my heart to believe that God is ever-present and active in the unknown land. I am, by God's grace, achieving emotional sobriety even in the aftermath.
1 Corinthians 9:26 & 27, "So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified."
When I say I have been thinking about sobriety, I want to clarify that I am referring to "emotional sobriety." In his article Achieving Emotional Sobriety, author Dr. David Hawkins offers this definition:
"Emotional sobriety, as I define it, applies to maintaining emotional balance. It means attending to our emotional life when we are angry, discouraged and frustrated. During these times we are likely to react and react again, creating unbalance in our relationships."
One of the things Dr. Hawkins reminds me to do to achieve emotional sobriety is to SLOW THINGS DOWN - in every aspect of my life. He suggests taking time out to put things into perspective by being intentional about what I want to say and how I want to act, instead of becoming emotionally reactive.
And so, may I say that there has been a perplexing aftermath from the February weekend in Laguna when Phoenix Seminary was blessed by a huge jump in resources. When I researched what "aftermath" means the first definition was "a second crop of growth" which is intriguing indeed! Who knew there would be such monumental second growth from our experience?
Before we parted from Bruce Wilkinson at the end of the Laguna weekend, he predicted that we would be attacked by a crisis of faith which would test our belief in the days ahead. Ominously, I noted that the dictionary definition of aftermath did add, "the period immediately following a usually ruinous event" such as "in the aftermath of the war."
Let me hasten to say that God is still on His throne and I am confident that His purposes are prevailing. However, I have found myself in unknown territory after experiencing a particularly strong outburst of the presence of God in my life. I haven't written any blogs for several weeks because I have been doing what Dr. Hawkins suggested in his article - slowing down to acquire perspective.
What are the distinctives of this unknown territory? It seems to me that there are great paradoxes - wonderment at all the possibilities that resources provide but deep concern that those resources be stewarded well. Amazement that many people committed to stand with us but more sobriety than ever in managing all the expectations of relationships. Delight at what was accomplished by working together but consternation and heartbreak over emotional reactions and questioning of motives.
In my slowing-down-time, God has given me the perspective that the winds of war will rage on - battle, victory, crisis of belief, and then the marvelous purifying of faith. I am staying calm as I survey God's sanctification process and the incremental growth spurts that sustain it! I am disciplining my heart to believe that God is ever-present and active in the unknown land. I am, by God's grace, achieving emotional sobriety even in the aftermath.
1 Corinthians 9:26 & 27, "So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified."
Saturday, February 19, 2011
I've been thinking about attacks...
RESISTING A SHARK ATTACK
Laura Hillenbrand, the author of Seabiscuit, has written a new book entitled Unbroken in which she tells an astonishing tale of survival, resilience, and redemption. During World War II, Louis Zamperini joined the Army Air Corps as a bombardier. After his B-24 Liberator crashed into the ocean, he survived 47 days on a raft at sea before his dehumanizing capture and torture by the Japanese.
While drifting at sea, Louie and two other surviving crew members experienced a fearful phenomenon - sharks. A shark is a carnivore predator, a meat-eating fish and one of the most feared animals of the sea. Sharks were uninvited, constant companions throughout the saga of the raft. Here are a few goose-pimpling excerpts:
"The sharks... were so close that the men would only have to extend their hands to touch them. The smallest were about six feet long; but some were double that size, twice the length of the rafts. They bent around the rafts, testing the fabric, dragging their fins along them..." p. 129
"The coolness of the ocean beckoned and couldn't be answered, for the sharks circled. One shark, six or eight feet long, stalked the rafts without rest, day and night. The men became especially wary of him, and when he ventured too close, one of them would jab him with an oar." p. 141
"As the men sat together, exhausted and in shock, a shark lunged up over the wall of the raft, mouth open, trying to drag a man into the ocean. Someone grabbed an oar and hit the shark, and it slid off. Then another shark jumped on and, after it, another." p. 156 - 157
"Growing wiser, they gave up flinging themselves haphazardly at the men and began stalking about, waiting for a moment when an oar was down or a back was turned before bulling their way aboard. Over and over again they lunged... Mac and Phil smacked them away." p. 157-158
During a strafing attack by a Japanese plane, Louie jumped overboard into the water and hid under the raft only to see the huge, gaping mouth of a shark emerge out of the darkness. As Louie prepared to fight with his bare hands some of his survival training came to mind.
"Louie remembered the advice of the old man in Honolulu: Make a threatening expression, then stiff-arm the shark's snout. As the shark lunged for his head, Louie bared his teeth, widened his eyes, and rammed his palm into the tip of the shark's nose. The shark flinched, circled away, then swam back for a second pass. Louie waited until the shark was inches from him, then struck it in the nose again. Again, the shark peeled away." p. 155
And then, an assault by the apex predator of all sharks. "Swelling up from under the water came a leviathan: a vast white mouth, a broad back parting the surface, and a long dorsal fin, ghostly in the moonlight. The animal was some twenty feet long, more than three times the length of the raft. Louis recognized its features from his survival training. It was a great white shark." p. 163
Contemplating the horrific shark experiences, I can easily make a connection to what the Bible says about Satan and the tactics he employs. I Peter 5:8,9, Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.
Hmmmm... bare my teeth, widen my eyes, and ram my palm into the devil's nose. This could well be another metaphor for resisting him and remaining firm in my faith. Certainly the threat is very real but I would like my life to be a tale of survival, resilience, and redemption, just like Louie Zamperini.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
I've been thinking about traction...
OVER THE TOP
Our long-awaited Montage weekend in Laguna Beach with Phoenix Seminary investors is over but as I continue to reflect on it, all I can say is, "It was over the top!" Let me explain.
A week or so before we left for the weekend, Darryl and I were inspired by a movie about Sir Winston Churchill called Walking With Destiny. The movie documents the period of time after Churchill was named prime minister of Great Britain in 1940 up until the point the United States of America entered World War II.
On June 4, 1940, Churchill told the House of Commons that even though all of Europe might fall, "...we shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end...we shall fight in the seas and oceans... we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing-grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender..." Rarely, if ever, has a national leader taken over in such a desperate hour.
Churchill was a noted speaker, author, painter, soldier and war reporter. He demonstrated a matchless command of the English language and he spoke as he wrote - clearly, vividly, majestically. He used his rhetoric to bolster the people of Great Britain as they struggled for survival. Looking back on this chapter in his life, he wrote, "I felt as if I were walking with destiny, and that all my past life had been but a preparation for this hour and for this trial."
His personal courage, the grandeur of his words, and his faith in victory, even if it was not yet clear how that victory could be achieved, inspired the British nation to "their finest hour." The mere sight of this stocky, determined man - a cigar in his mouth and two fingers raised high in a "V for victory" salute - cheered the people.
"Their finest hour" was a phrase lifted from a 36 minute speech Churchill delivered to the House of Commons on June 18, l940. Just a month after he took over as prime minister, he talked about the noble causes for which Great Britain was fighting. He said, "Let us therefore brace ourselves to our duties, and so bear ourselves, that if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, This was their finest hour."
Moved to tears by this phrase, I asked our committed prayer warriors to pray that this donor weekend would be our finest hour. I asked them to pray that our courage and strength would grow in direct proportion to our challenges. Instead of cowering before them - that our group of 100 souls would be unified and bound together in sharing the burden of sustaining Phoenix Seminary.
God did above and beyond all that we thought possible. The doors of heaven opened and Phoenix Seminary was blessed with financial commitments of over six million dollars. Every person attending gathered around Darryl and I in a prayer of commitment to build Phoenix Seminary and to stand firmly behind its mission of Scholarship with a Shepherd's Heart.
Finally, traction had come to pitch the seminary forward into the destiny God has already designed for it! His "over the top" display of power will remain in our hearts and memories forever. To God be ALL the glory!
Our long-awaited Montage weekend in Laguna Beach with Phoenix Seminary investors is over but as I continue to reflect on it, all I can say is, "It was over the top!" Let me explain.
A week or so before we left for the weekend, Darryl and I were inspired by a movie about Sir Winston Churchill called Walking With Destiny. The movie documents the period of time after Churchill was named prime minister of Great Britain in 1940 up until the point the United States of America entered World War II.
On June 4, 1940, Churchill told the House of Commons that even though all of Europe might fall, "...we shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end...we shall fight in the seas and oceans... we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing-grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender..." Rarely, if ever, has a national leader taken over in such a desperate hour.
Churchill was a noted speaker, author, painter, soldier and war reporter. He demonstrated a matchless command of the English language and he spoke as he wrote - clearly, vividly, majestically. He used his rhetoric to bolster the people of Great Britain as they struggled for survival. Looking back on this chapter in his life, he wrote, "I felt as if I were walking with destiny, and that all my past life had been but a preparation for this hour and for this trial."
His personal courage, the grandeur of his words, and his faith in victory, even if it was not yet clear how that victory could be achieved, inspired the British nation to "their finest hour." The mere sight of this stocky, determined man - a cigar in his mouth and two fingers raised high in a "V for victory" salute - cheered the people.
"Their finest hour" was a phrase lifted from a 36 minute speech Churchill delivered to the House of Commons on June 18, l940. Just a month after he took over as prime minister, he talked about the noble causes for which Great Britain was fighting. He said, "Let us therefore brace ourselves to our duties, and so bear ourselves, that if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, This was their finest hour."
Moved to tears by this phrase, I asked our committed prayer warriors to pray that this donor weekend would be our finest hour. I asked them to pray that our courage and strength would grow in direct proportion to our challenges. Instead of cowering before them - that our group of 100 souls would be unified and bound together in sharing the burden of sustaining Phoenix Seminary.
God did above and beyond all that we thought possible. The doors of heaven opened and Phoenix Seminary was blessed with financial commitments of over six million dollars. Every person attending gathered around Darryl and I in a prayer of commitment to build Phoenix Seminary and to stand firmly behind its mission of Scholarship with a Shepherd's Heart.
Finally, traction had come to pitch the seminary forward into the destiny God has already designed for it! His "over the top" display of power will remain in our hearts and memories forever. To God be ALL the glory!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
I've been thinking about anxiety...
CONFLICTING PRIORITIES
When priorities converge and conflict results, "splitting" occurs. I am speaking here of intense emotional pain - a deep piercing - caused by being divided within myself over what my priorities should be in a particular situation.
As I sort out what to do in my "splitting" times, I often think of the story of Mary and Martha found in Luke 10:38-42. Jesus came to Martha's home for dinner. (Can you imagine serving as a hostess to the Son of God?) As was His custom, wherever He went, Jesus began to teach and entertain questions from the group who gathered to share the occasion with Him.
Mary, Martha's sister, chose to sit at Jesus' feet listening to His words instead of assuming the normal role of a female in that culture which was to help with the meal preparations. Because Mary was not helping, Martha was extra busy and overburdened. Finally, when her frustrations reached the boiling point, she complained to Jesus, asking Him to "Tell her then to help me."
Jesus responded to Martha with wonderful tenderness because He recognized her emotional state. He used her name (Can you imagine the Son of God saying your name?) and gently instructed her in how to lower her anxiety by shifting her priorities. This is where I relate to Martha and her plight.
I grieve over how often distractions in my life keep me from doing the most needful thing. In this story, Jesus identifies the keenest form of distraction - the kind that causes someone to be anxious and troubled about many things.
What is anxiety? It is an abnormal and overwhelming sense of apprehension and fear often marked by physiological signs (as sweating, tension, and increased pulse), by doubt concerning the reality and nature of the threat, and by self-doubt about one's capacity to cope with it.
Jesus continues on with His lesson in restructuring priorities, by saying, only "one thing is necessary" or absolutely needed. Only one thing has eternal value, only one thing brings peace - even though, at times, it may even be at odds with the expectations of polite society.
What is that one necessary thing? Nothing is more important than communing with Jesus and letting Him speak to me. And so, when my distraction level hits high alert - when I'm tempted to move FASTER and work HARDER, that is my cue to SIT DOWN at Jesus' feet and simply listen. Because in quietly listening to His instruction and wisdom - I am pleasing Him - first.
When priorities converge and conflict results, "splitting" occurs. I am speaking here of intense emotional pain - a deep piercing - caused by being divided within myself over what my priorities should be in a particular situation.
As I sort out what to do in my "splitting" times, I often think of the story of Mary and Martha found in Luke 10:38-42. Jesus came to Martha's home for dinner. (Can you imagine serving as a hostess to the Son of God?) As was His custom, wherever He went, Jesus began to teach and entertain questions from the group who gathered to share the occasion with Him.
Mary, Martha's sister, chose to sit at Jesus' feet listening to His words instead of assuming the normal role of a female in that culture which was to help with the meal preparations. Because Mary was not helping, Martha was extra busy and overburdened. Finally, when her frustrations reached the boiling point, she complained to Jesus, asking Him to "Tell her then to help me."
Jesus responded to Martha with wonderful tenderness because He recognized her emotional state. He used her name (Can you imagine the Son of God saying your name?) and gently instructed her in how to lower her anxiety by shifting her priorities. This is where I relate to Martha and her plight.
I grieve over how often distractions in my life keep me from doing the most needful thing. In this story, Jesus identifies the keenest form of distraction - the kind that causes someone to be anxious and troubled about many things.
What is anxiety? It is an abnormal and overwhelming sense of apprehension and fear often marked by physiological signs (as sweating, tension, and increased pulse), by doubt concerning the reality and nature of the threat, and by self-doubt about one's capacity to cope with it.
Jesus continues on with His lesson in restructuring priorities, by saying, only "one thing is necessary" or absolutely needed. Only one thing has eternal value, only one thing brings peace - even though, at times, it may even be at odds with the expectations of polite society.
What is that one necessary thing? Nothing is more important than communing with Jesus and letting Him speak to me. And so, when my distraction level hits high alert - when I'm tempted to move FASTER and work HARDER, that is my cue to SIT DOWN at Jesus' feet and simply listen. Because in quietly listening to His instruction and wisdom - I am pleasing Him - first.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
I've been thinking about change...
THE MOMENT OF TRUTH - LITERALLY!
Because I have been contemplating transformational change, thoughts about how this happens have been rolling around in my head for several months.
Discovering what motivates the heart of an individual is a tricky challenge. But, I believe God knows the key to motivation for each of His children and He is the expert at revealing, to those of us who are watching, what it will take to stir someone up!
My role in assisting with transformational change over the years has been to be a prepared and available vessel for God to use to connect to this deep pool of motivation in whatever way He deems necessary.
Is it hope?
Is it possibility?
It is being believed in?
Is it compassion?
Is it removing obstacles?
Is it confrontation?
Is it a dose of reality?
Is it shocking them?
Is it knowledge?
Is it freedom from distortion?
Is it revealing lies?
Is it, patient, on-going repetition of the truth?
Before Jesus ascended to Heaven, He said in John 14 verse 16, "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, but it neither sees Him nor knows Him. You know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you." It is the mysterious work of the Spirit that confirms a truth so deeply that it rocks an individual down to their soul!
It is evident when the connection or heart spark (where God's heart is revealed and an individual's heart is exposed - a combustion of both hearts colliding over the same truth at the same time) has occurred because it is like witnessing a lightening strike. Romans 8 verse 16 says, "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God." In the moment of truth, the heart spark shocks the heart into motion or back into rhythm and the light reveals the source of the power so that there is no misunderstanding that it is the work of God!
I live to participate in this process of transformational change and the pure exhilaration keeps me coming back for more!
Because I have been contemplating transformational change, thoughts about how this happens have been rolling around in my head for several months.
Discovering what motivates the heart of an individual is a tricky challenge. But, I believe God knows the key to motivation for each of His children and He is the expert at revealing, to those of us who are watching, what it will take to stir someone up!
My role in assisting with transformational change over the years has been to be a prepared and available vessel for God to use to connect to this deep pool of motivation in whatever way He deems necessary.
Is it hope?
Is it possibility?
It is being believed in?
Is it compassion?
Is it removing obstacles?
Is it confrontation?
Is it a dose of reality?
Is it shocking them?
Is it knowledge?
Is it freedom from distortion?
Is it revealing lies?
Is it, patient, on-going repetition of the truth?
Before Jesus ascended to Heaven, He said in John 14 verse 16, "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, but it neither sees Him nor knows Him. You know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you." It is the mysterious work of the Spirit that confirms a truth so deeply that it rocks an individual down to their soul!
It is evident when the connection or heart spark (where God's heart is revealed and an individual's heart is exposed - a combustion of both hearts colliding over the same truth at the same time) has occurred because it is like witnessing a lightening strike. Romans 8 verse 16 says, "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God." In the moment of truth, the heart spark shocks the heart into motion or back into rhythm and the light reveals the source of the power so that there is no misunderstanding that it is the work of God!
I live to participate in this process of transformational change and the pure exhilaration keeps me coming back for more!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
I've been thinking about memories...
Loving Luxuriously
On the other side of Christmas I have been evaluating the memories I made this year. I love to give and give generously when the opportunity presents itself. I've been asking myself why.
I often think of Mary of Bethany, Lazarus' sister, whose example of loving generously is recorded in John 12. In the early verses of this chapter we see how Jesus' friends defied the command in 11:57 that "if anyone knew where He was, he should let them (the chief priests and the Pharisees) know, so that they might arrest Him."
The time is short, the cross is near, and we know that it is at great risk to themselves that Jesus' friends "gave a dinner for Him." At the dinner, Mary's devoted heart seized the occasion to express her overflowing love for Christ. In verse 3, we read, "Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume."
The passage relates that the amount of ointment was extravagant, as a pound is a very large amount of fragrant oil and perfume. In verse 5 we are given the value as three hundred denarii or the equivalent of a year's wages.
In verse 7, the dinner turns even more poignant, as Jesus tenderly reminds everyone, when they are tempted to be critical of Mary's luxurious display, that "the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have Me."
In this economic turn down, the new normal appears to be: Love cheaply! Ever anxious to understand as much as I can, I looked up the word "cheap" in the dictionary and it means to purchase below the going price or the real value. It is even often a competitive game to see who can get something for the cheapest price.
But I beg to differ. I say to myself, since I don't know what losses are around the corner, I don't want to use my valuable opportunity to send a message that devalues. I have an intense desire to highly value and honor those I love - even luxuriously - to communicate how deeply I care.
So, why am I about creating memories that revolve around generosity? I have spent some time pondering, and here are my reasons:
I want to love OPENLY - meaning, I desire, at appropriate times, to throw off the restraints and express the deep love and devotion of my heart. I want to love FREELY and SPONTANEOUSLY.
I want to love LUXURIOUSLY - meaning, I desire to spare no expense in revealing how much I value the person and want to honor them. The more pure and perfect the gift, the more honor it expresses. I want to love SUMPTUOUSLY and MAGNIFICENTLY.
I want to love INFLUENTIALLY - meaning, I desire to pervade the atmosphere with the fragrance of generosity so that others are blessed and inspired to let their love overflow. I want to love CONSPICUOUSLY and EXPANSIVELY.
Wisdom teaches me to seize opportunities to make memories and fill them with meaning, which I accomplish by loving in the moment and loving luxuriously. Long after the opportunities fade, the memories linger!
On the other side of Christmas I have been evaluating the memories I made this year. I love to give and give generously when the opportunity presents itself. I've been asking myself why.
I often think of Mary of Bethany, Lazarus' sister, whose example of loving generously is recorded in John 12. In the early verses of this chapter we see how Jesus' friends defied the command in 11:57 that "if anyone knew where He was, he should let them (the chief priests and the Pharisees) know, so that they might arrest Him."
The time is short, the cross is near, and we know that it is at great risk to themselves that Jesus' friends "gave a dinner for Him." At the dinner, Mary's devoted heart seized the occasion to express her overflowing love for Christ. In verse 3, we read, "Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume."
The passage relates that the amount of ointment was extravagant, as a pound is a very large amount of fragrant oil and perfume. In verse 5 we are given the value as three hundred denarii or the equivalent of a year's wages.
In verse 7, the dinner turns even more poignant, as Jesus tenderly reminds everyone, when they are tempted to be critical of Mary's luxurious display, that "the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have Me."
In this economic turn down, the new normal appears to be: Love cheaply! Ever anxious to understand as much as I can, I looked up the word "cheap" in the dictionary and it means to purchase below the going price or the real value. It is even often a competitive game to see who can get something for the cheapest price.
But I beg to differ. I say to myself, since I don't know what losses are around the corner, I don't want to use my valuable opportunity to send a message that devalues. I have an intense desire to highly value and honor those I love - even luxuriously - to communicate how deeply I care.
So, why am I about creating memories that revolve around generosity? I have spent some time pondering, and here are my reasons:
I want to love OPENLY - meaning, I desire, at appropriate times, to throw off the restraints and express the deep love and devotion of my heart. I want to love FREELY and SPONTANEOUSLY.
I want to love LUXURIOUSLY - meaning, I desire to spare no expense in revealing how much I value the person and want to honor them. The more pure and perfect the gift, the more honor it expresses. I want to love SUMPTUOUSLY and MAGNIFICENTLY.
I want to love INFLUENTIALLY - meaning, I desire to pervade the atmosphere with the fragrance of generosity so that others are blessed and inspired to let their love overflow. I want to love CONSPICUOUSLY and EXPANSIVELY.
Wisdom teaches me to seize opportunities to make memories and fill them with meaning, which I accomplish by loving in the moment and loving luxuriously. Long after the opportunities fade, the memories linger!
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