French Guiana
6 months ago
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
The Issues of Life
Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.
Keep your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the issues of life.
Proverbs 4:23
We can take up all sorts of human activity. Be people of action. And of repute.
But if our hearts are not genuine (pure), then it will not amount to anything fruitful.
Out of the heart, the mouth speaks!
Keep your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the issues of life.
Proverbs 4:23
We can take up all sorts of human activity. Be people of action. And of repute.
But if our hearts are not genuine (pure), then it will not amount to anything fruitful.
Out of the heart, the mouth speaks!
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Things Anzac! ... Anzac Day 2007
Once again, young Australians flocked to Gallipoli, the Kokoda Trail [or track], and to the Dawn Services across the nation.
Young people - seeking that moving moment, that special awareness of life, and death, and ... sacrifice.
"What is it with Anzac Day?" ask the talk-back hosts.
It is certainly a media feast. Much can be said. Much is said.
Emotions run high.
Solemnity finds a true place in our lives. At least for a day.
This is my third post now on similar topics:
1. Things Formal
2. Things Serious
3. Things Anzac!
But what is it about?
It is not 'glorifying war'. Somehow we need to remind ourselves of that.
It is not just the emotional workout - the catharsis.
No.
In my opinion, it is a genuine probing, a searching, about a matter, central to human life, which our culture has in many ways denied to, or hidden from, or ridiculed to - our young people. And others too.
On many of the Anzac Memorials we can find these words, written on plaques, or etched in stone:
'Greater love has no man that this, that he lay down his life for his friends'
(the women, in that old language, were considered to be included).
These are the words of Jesus.
Jesus' own life was a sacrifice.
He lay down his own life, for others, for the world of sinful humanity, (indeed, for the ultimate benefit of his enemies!)
The matter of sacrifice, rightly understood, should never be confined to 'priests, vestments, and ...religion'.
Sacrifice, rightly understood, is central to humanity. To true living.
Sacrifice - as revealed in Jesus life, is that toward which, Anzac Day is ... searching.
May the moments of next Anzac Day, and Remembrance Day, and so on, be occasions, for seeking and finding the true meaning, the full revelation of sacrifice. In this way, those hundreds of thousands of young deaths, in 1914-1918, will not be in vain. They will have pointed toward life - eternal. They will have been a Portent. A sign, of:
Things ImPortent:
1. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.
2. This is my body, given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me!
Young people - seeking that moving moment, that special awareness of life, and death, and ... sacrifice.
"What is it with Anzac Day?" ask the talk-back hosts.
It is certainly a media feast. Much can be said. Much is said.
Emotions run high.
Solemnity finds a true place in our lives. At least for a day.
This is my third post now on similar topics:
1. Things Formal
2. Things Serious
3. Things Anzac!
But what is it about?
It is not 'glorifying war'. Somehow we need to remind ourselves of that.
It is not just the emotional workout - the catharsis.
No.
In my opinion, it is a genuine probing, a searching, about a matter, central to human life, which our culture has in many ways denied to, or hidden from, or ridiculed to - our young people. And others too.
On many of the Anzac Memorials we can find these words, written on plaques, or etched in stone:
'Greater love has no man that this, that he lay down his life for his friends'
(the women, in that old language, were considered to be included).
These are the words of Jesus.
Jesus' own life was a sacrifice.
He lay down his own life, for others, for the world of sinful humanity, (indeed, for the ultimate benefit of his enemies!)
The matter of sacrifice, rightly understood, should never be confined to 'priests, vestments, and ...religion'.
Sacrifice, rightly understood, is central to humanity. To true living.
Sacrifice - as revealed in Jesus life, is that toward which, Anzac Day is ... searching.
May the moments of next Anzac Day, and Remembrance Day, and so on, be occasions, for seeking and finding the true meaning, the full revelation of sacrifice. In this way, those hundreds of thousands of young deaths, in 1914-1918, will not be in vain. They will have pointed toward life - eternal. They will have been a Portent. A sign, of:
Things ImPortent:
1. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.
2. This is my body, given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me!
Things Serious
At a wedding I recently conducted, the groom - Sam - asked me if I could use his Full Christian Name - Samuel - throughout the service. 'OK, No worres' - I readily agreed. 'Very glad to do so'. Although, a couple of times during the message, as I spoke in a personal direct manner to him, and his bride, I did use the shorter, more common name [which we usually use].
He and his wife both enjoy some of the finer pleasures in life.
But Sam is generally, not really a "stickler for formality". Indeed, he is somewhat casual, as are most Aussie country lads. But on this occasion - he was taking the whole matter seriously.
In the wedding service we say: "Marriage is a way of life which all people should honour; it is not to be entered into lightly or selfishly, but responsibly and in the love of God".
The couple also conclude their vows, saying: 'This is my solemn vow'.
So, "lightly" is out, on this occasion.
It really is great, when people take great and serious matters - seriously. This is especially so for marriage.
Strangely - and unfortunately - many people today are taking the lighter things [sport, entertainment, vacations, blogging] soooo... seriously, but they are taking the more serious matters [marriage, Christ, faith, worship] so lightly and casually.
Solemnity. Seriousness. And now, all the fun and joy of married life. Good on you Sam! All the best, Ellen.
He and his wife both enjoy some of the finer pleasures in life.
But Sam is generally, not really a "stickler for formality". Indeed, he is somewhat casual, as are most Aussie country lads. But on this occasion - he was taking the whole matter seriously.
In the wedding service we say: "Marriage is a way of life which all people should honour; it is not to be entered into lightly or selfishly, but responsibly and in the love of God".
The couple also conclude their vows, saying: 'This is my solemn vow'.
So, "lightly" is out, on this occasion.
It really is great, when people take great and serious matters - seriously. This is especially so for marriage.
Strangely - and unfortunately - many people today are taking the lighter things [sport, entertainment, vacations, blogging] soooo... seriously, but they are taking the more serious matters [marriage, Christ, faith, worship] so lightly and casually.
Solemnity. Seriousness. And now, all the fun and joy of married life. Good on you Sam! All the best, Ellen.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Things Formal
Last weekend I attended a memorable 21st birthday. Mostly, it was an informal gathering, with food brought around the crowded house - inside and out; people talking, meeting, laughing, and casually sharing life together. But then, it came time for a few speeches. Not many, and not for long, but just a few. The people hushed; the father talked about his dear daughter; the mother added a few things; as did a sister, much in jest and good fun; then came the response from the delightful 21 year old daughter. In particular she thanked her parents, rather movingly, for introducing her to Jesus: the best thing they could ever have done. It was profound; sweet; genuine; moving; a lifetime wrapped up into a few sentences; a person or two called out and joked, about a few other funny matters; then, simply, the formalities concluded with the cutting of the cake; and then sharing it around; this part of the day, made the day.
Yes, the formalities, though brief, were wonderful; essential really; they made the day!
In a world, which has become increasingly casual, I for one, am glad that there are still formalities.
It is possible, even in our casual forms of Christianity, to pray and worship the Father, our God, alone, in a formal manner; with speech which is not merely chit chat, with a friend (there are many times for that). There is a time for every matter under heaven; just as i have spoken in my 'best English' to a well educated more senior doctor, or dentist, with a degree of care, and choosing words wisely, so too, I recently prayed alone, in words well chosen, and even slightly formal; it was a liberating and dignifying experience;
Some Sunday morning services, could do with a little less liturgy and formality, I shall agree. But many more, could do with a degree of - for want of a better word - formality. I may mean seriousness, or solemnity, or clarity of thought, or holiness of speech, or 'our best English'; but whatever, come what may, I am sure that to lift our sense of grandeur and wonder, and high praise the the Most High God, who has come so near to us in Jesus Christ, we would do well to speak in terms which are dignified, and perhaps at times, slightly formal. This does enrich life and worship.
I came to this revelation, regarding formality, while reading Psalm 116:14 "I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people". This is a section of Psalms (113-118) which constitute the 'Egyptian Hallel" and were used in connection with the great festivals. Praise the Lord, for rich, genuine liturgy, and formality, filled with the presence of the Living Christ, enlivened by the most Holy Spirit.
Yes, the formalities, though brief, were wonderful; essential really; they made the day!
In a world, which has become increasingly casual, I for one, am glad that there are still formalities.
It is possible, even in our casual forms of Christianity, to pray and worship the Father, our God, alone, in a formal manner; with speech which is not merely chit chat, with a friend (there are many times for that). There is a time for every matter under heaven; just as i have spoken in my 'best English' to a well educated more senior doctor, or dentist, with a degree of care, and choosing words wisely, so too, I recently prayed alone, in words well chosen, and even slightly formal; it was a liberating and dignifying experience;
Some Sunday morning services, could do with a little less liturgy and formality, I shall agree. But many more, could do with a degree of - for want of a better word - formality. I may mean seriousness, or solemnity, or clarity of thought, or holiness of speech, or 'our best English'; but whatever, come what may, I am sure that to lift our sense of grandeur and wonder, and high praise the the Most High God, who has come so near to us in Jesus Christ, we would do well to speak in terms which are dignified, and perhaps at times, slightly formal. This does enrich life and worship.
I came to this revelation, regarding formality, while reading Psalm 116:14 "I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people". This is a section of Psalms (113-118) which constitute the 'Egyptian Hallel" and were used in connection with the great festivals. Praise the Lord, for rich, genuine liturgy, and formality, filled with the presence of the Living Christ, enlivened by the most Holy Spirit.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Two Broadcasters
Today, I heard a radio report. One of those little human interest catalogues, or birthday's. In particular, they were saying that it was the birthday (24th March) of:
(1) the famous Canadian environmentalist, Dr. David Suzuki and of
(2) the influential English Media personality and broadcaster Malcolm Muggeridge.
Two men of influence.
Voted one the the 10 greatest Canadians, David Suzuki has given us fascinating insights, and urgent warnings concerning the world in which we live. His contribution to the wisdom and life of the human race is immeasurable.
He said: "We have both a sense of the importance of the wilderness and space in our culture and an attitude that it is limitless and therefore we needn't worry." Wikipedia notes: "He concludes with a call for a major "perceptual shift" in our relationship with nature and the wild". Crucial, I'm sure.
And yet, does he, ulitmately hold an accurate view of the true nature of things? Is the world in the hands of a faithful Creator? What does he think of Christ?
Malcolm Muggeridge was at one time an avowed atheist, and critic of the Christian faith. However, something happened which changed his perspective, entirely. He met the Risen, living Christ - Jesus of Nazareth, now Lord of the universe. This gave him a far more hopeful view of things. Since he came to see things as they really are.
"I can say that I never knew what joy was like until I gave up pursuing happiness, or cared to live until I chose to die. For these two discoveries I am beholden to Jesus".
He held an understanding which had come to him beyond sight, He had been encountered by the living Christ. The world was genuinely under a guiding, redeeming hand, not merely bound to self-destruction. This biblical understanding does of course take account of that event known as "the fall".
He also said: "Every happening, great and small, is a parable whereby God speaks to us, and the art of life is to get the message".
The message, is that Christ lives, by his resurrection power, and therefore David Suzuki's world, is actually a different place than he knows.
It is amazing that such insight has been revealed to babaes and infants, and yet, the "wise" cannot perceive it. Strange.
(1) the famous Canadian environmentalist, Dr. David Suzuki and of
(2) the influential English Media personality and broadcaster Malcolm Muggeridge.
Two men of influence.
Voted one the the 10 greatest Canadians, David Suzuki has given us fascinating insights, and urgent warnings concerning the world in which we live. His contribution to the wisdom and life of the human race is immeasurable.
He said: "We have both a sense of the importance of the wilderness and space in our culture and an attitude that it is limitless and therefore we needn't worry." Wikipedia notes: "He concludes with a call for a major "perceptual shift" in our relationship with nature and the wild". Crucial, I'm sure.
And yet, does he, ulitmately hold an accurate view of the true nature of things? Is the world in the hands of a faithful Creator? What does he think of Christ?
Malcolm Muggeridge was at one time an avowed atheist, and critic of the Christian faith. However, something happened which changed his perspective, entirely. He met the Risen, living Christ - Jesus of Nazareth, now Lord of the universe. This gave him a far more hopeful view of things. Since he came to see things as they really are.
"I can say that I never knew what joy was like until I gave up pursuing happiness, or cared to live until I chose to die. For these two discoveries I am beholden to Jesus".
He held an understanding which had come to him beyond sight, He had been encountered by the living Christ. The world was genuinely under a guiding, redeeming hand, not merely bound to self-destruction. This biblical understanding does of course take account of that event known as "the fall".
He also said: "Every happening, great and small, is a parable whereby God speaks to us, and the art of life is to get the message".
The message, is that Christ lives, by his resurrection power, and therefore David Suzuki's world, is actually a different place than he knows.
It is amazing that such insight has been revealed to babaes and infants, and yet, the "wise" cannot perceive it. Strange.
What is the Image of God?
“God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” (Gen. 1:27)
What is the Image of God?
Is it a broad, general concept, or a more specific thing?
Does it refer uniquely to humanity as male-female?
Is it to do with being created to be like God in his deeds?
Is it something esoteric, hidden, and hard to define?
Does is mean being relational, as the triune God is relational?
Is it the capacity for thinking, and reasoning and moral choice?
Is it to do with dignity, goodness, integrity, uprightness?
Is it referring to having dominion, rulership and authority?
Is it about servanthood towards the rest of creation?
Does it refer to a quality or role given only to human beings?
Carl F.H. Henry has said: ‘The Bible does not define for us the precise content of the original imago’.
However, Colossians says that the eternal Christ is the Image of the Invisible God. Adam was thus, the image of The Image. Christ reigns over creation; Adam and Eve were created and blessed with a relational capacity to reign - together with, and under the triune God - to fulfil their vocation of heading up the creation, with the goal of sanctification and glorification.
O Jesus, You Reign! We struggle. With you, and through you, and under you, men & women shall reign in life (Rom. 5:17).
Help us to embrace this ‘dominion’ in life, as we receive your Grace, and your righteousness, O Lord.
QUOTES:
(1) The image of God in Man is irreducible, but reversible.
(J. A. Motyer).
(2) Everything that God is, Man is like that; but anything that God is, Man is none of that (eg. Creator-Father, Redeemer).
(G. C. Bingham)
What is the Image of God?
Is it a broad, general concept, or a more specific thing?
Does it refer uniquely to humanity as male-female?
Is it to do with being created to be like God in his deeds?
Is it something esoteric, hidden, and hard to define?
Does is mean being relational, as the triune God is relational?
Is it the capacity for thinking, and reasoning and moral choice?
Is it to do with dignity, goodness, integrity, uprightness?
Is it referring to having dominion, rulership and authority?
Is it about servanthood towards the rest of creation?
Does it refer to a quality or role given only to human beings?
Carl F.H. Henry has said: ‘The Bible does not define for us the precise content of the original imago’.
However, Colossians says that the eternal Christ is the Image of the Invisible God. Adam was thus, the image of The Image. Christ reigns over creation; Adam and Eve were created and blessed with a relational capacity to reign - together with, and under the triune God - to fulfil their vocation of heading up the creation, with the goal of sanctification and glorification.
O Jesus, You Reign! We struggle. With you, and through you, and under you, men & women shall reign in life (Rom. 5:17).
Help us to embrace this ‘dominion’ in life, as we receive your Grace, and your righteousness, O Lord.
QUOTES:
(1) The image of God in Man is irreducible, but reversible.
(J. A. Motyer).
(2) Everything that God is, Man is like that; but anything that God is, Man is none of that (eg. Creator-Father, Redeemer).
(G. C. Bingham)
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