Reason for the Season

Good thing there are "12 days of Christmas" or this post would be really late for a Christmas post!

It's pretty amazing how the holidays can make us so busy AND exhausted!

Aside from the hustle and bustle of the season, I had a great time with family and I hope you did, too!

In this series, we first talked about getting the nerve up to ask hard questions.

Then, we talked about being open and willing to hear the answer, whether we like it or not.

Once we have the answer, what do we do with it?

We either take a step of faith and believe in it, or we do nothing with it. 

In "Letters from a Skeptic", Ed asked hard questions over a span of 3 years. 

Although his questions were full of doubt, he was still open to what his son had to say.

After 3 years of discourse, Ed's belief had changed.

From a belief of agnosticism (a god cannot be proven or disproved), Ed came to believe that there is an all-loving God who sent His son, Jesus Christ to be in relationship with us and to save us. 

From this belief, hope was born.

Just like Ed, Mary and Joseph, as well as the shepherds and Wise Men, had a similar experience.

Although they were presented something hard to imagine, they were willing and acted on it. Because of this, they were given hope in return. 

For Ed, his belief gave him the hope of eternal life and relationship with Jesus Christ.

For Mary, Joseph, the shepherds and Wise Men, (as well as others), they received the hope of God here on earth, aka Emmanuel (God with us). 

Belief is the reason for the season, not Santa, candy canes, or presents. We do things because we believe. We celebrate because we believe. When we believe that God came to earth as a baby boy born in a manger during a genocide, so that we would be made right with God and be in relationship with Him, we are given the ultimate joy and hope that no one else can offer.

This belief is the reason for the season.

So it's clear that asking hard questions, being open, and stepping out in faith to arrive at a belief is definitely worth it!

Later, we'll discuss a few specific questions from Letters From a Skeptic.

Are you open?

By asking questions, there must be a willingness to hear the answer and go from there.

While reading, "Letters from a Skeptic", it is clear that although Ed (the skeptic father) has many questions and doubts, at least he is willing to step outside of his head (and heart) and take a chance by listening to his son, Greg. Throughout the book, Ed continues to ask questions, one right after the other. 

The correspondence of letters lasted from March 10, 1989 to November 22, 1991. Clearly, there was a willingness and persistence from both Ed and Greg during this discourse. Either one of them could have easily at some point said, "Okay, I'm tired of this. I can't think or talk about this anymore." Not that this was an easy task for both of them, it actually was tiring, but they didn't let that get in the way of this time for questions and growth.

In chapter 2 of Luke, we learn about Jesus' birth. Luke 2:15 tells us about the shepherds reactions to the angels' good news, "When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, "Let us so straight into Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us."

The shepherds could have simply reacted out of fear and ignored the news, but instead, they wanted to go see for themselves. They could have even been skeptical and said, "That sure was some quack job...let's go make sure this really didn't happen." 

Instead, they were open and willing. They took a leap of faith by going and seeing the Son of God laying in a manger.

Just like the shepherds and Ed Boyd were open and willing, there comes a time for each and every one of us to have a willingness to believe. We can't reach a belief without being open to it. 

Asking questions can be hard, but being ready for the answers can even be harder. Sometimes we may have enough guts to ask the hard questions, but still find ourselves in a box that keeps us from being open to more possibilities.

Mary questioned how she could be the mother of Jesus while being a virgin.

The shepherds were willing to go see what the angels had told them. 

Although we weren't in the stable or out in the fields, we still have the opportunity to believe in the gift sent from God. 

Next post, we'll talk about what can be birthed from beliefs. 

Bible Reading Plan for this week: Ezekiel 31-48

It starts with a question

I had this idea to focus on the idea of belief and for some reason, I'm having difficulty putting it altogether. Come on brain, get it together! So hang in there with me! It makes sense in my mind, so I sure hope it will translate. 

If you read my last post, you know that I challenged you to write out some of your beliefs about life, faith, Christmas or whatever you wanted. How did that go? Was it easy? Difficult? Surprising?

For me, this time was a tad bit easier than last time. I don't know if it was because I had just graduated from college and felt brain-dead, not to mention, overwhelmed by an extremely busy time in my life but who knows. Whatever the reason, I think it's perfectly normal go to through times where questioning is better than answering. Maybe this time was easier because I had become aware that my beliefs weren't as concrete as I thought or maybe it was easier, because I've experienced and learned more since.

It makes me think of Dorey and Susan on Miracle on 34th Street. At first they didn't believe in the "magic" of Christmas, but as time went on, their disbelief turned into belief. It took time for their doubts to be erased about that old man with rosey cheeks, button nose, and a big, round belly. 

It also makes me think of Mary. In the Gospel of Luke, chapter 1, we read about when Mary discovers that she is to be the mother of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

The angel, Gabriel, comes to her and tells her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” (v.28)

What a greeting! I think it would definitely catch someone's attention.

Gabriel continued to tell her the shocking news.  “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.  And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David;  and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.” (v.31-33)

Guess how Mary replied.

She didn't shout, "Great! I can't wait!"

She didn't hide or run away. [I think I might have!]

She didn't quietly say, "That's not possible." 

Instead, she asked, "How can this be since I am a virgin?" (v.34)

I'd say that's a pretty good question. 

While she could have brought the conversation to a screeching halt, she encouraged it. Instead of making a statement, she asked a question.

I think that's important. I think we can rest assured that asking questions is vital for growth.

I remember in school, I was always afraid to ask questions. I felt like questions were frowned upon, in many cases. When it comes to questions about life, faith, and all thing important things, I think questions are the seed of learning. 

When Mary asked that simple question, Gabriel didn't shut down and not answer her, but in return, He gave her an explanation for her question...

“The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God." (v. 35)

He gave her a legitimate answer, when he could have said, "Just believe what I say, Mary."

Not to mention, he didn't stop with an answer, he followed with an example.

"And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age; and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month.  For nothing will be impossible with God.” (v. 36-37)

He gave her something she could relate to.  

What started out as a proclamation from an angel, continued all because of a question. When we are confused about something, we can't expect an explanation without speaking up. It's amazing how asking questions can bring about answers. However, there are many times when we may not be able to get an answer, but that is when trust and faith come in. It wouldn't hurt to try and ask anyway!

We are rational creatures, so it only makes sense that questions can often be at the forefront of our minds. Like Mary, sometimes we need more than a simple answer, but an explanation and example at times might be necessary for beliefs to be born. 

In the following posts, we'll explore some questions and dialogue from Greg Boyd and his father in their book, "Letters from a Skeptic". 

What are some of your beliefs? Were questions raised when you were doing the exercise? Was it easier to think of disbeliefs than beliefs?

Where are you?

 

¹ As the deer pants for streams of water,
    so my soul pants for you, my God.
² My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
    When can I go and meet with God?
³ My tears have been my food
    day and night,
while people say to me all day long,
    “Where is your God?”
⁴ These things I remember
    as I pour out my soul:
how I used to go to the house of God
    under the protection of the Mighty One^[d]
with shouts of joy and praise
    among the festive throng.

⁵ Why, my soul, are you downcast?
    Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
    for I will yet praise him,
    my Savior and my God.

~Psalm 42

 

Yesterday, I went to my boyfriend's church.

The sermon was based upon Psalm 42. It was very relatable so I figured I'd share some of my favorite points with you.

 

During the sermon, Pastor Eric painted us a picture of what it looks like to be caught in the middle of a drought. Not literally, but figuratively.

The kind of drought that brings about questions and emotions. Not just any questions, but questions that are so desperate for answers. Questions that are life changing. Questions of why, where, and how.

Not just any emotion, but raw emotion. The emotions that well up deep within the soul that are fighting so desperately to come out. Emotions that come from an experience that often leaves a person feeling wrecked.

This is the kind of drought I'm talking about.

 

As I listened to the message, tears rolled down my cheek. My mind went straight to my close friends who have recently lost parents. I haven't experienced the death of a loved one so I can't really relate, but I do know that what so often follows a death are questions like "Why God? Where are you?!"

My heart aches for them.

 

Although I haven't asked those questions in that sense, I have asked them.

I've asked these questions when plans haven't work out the way that I had planned.

I've asked these questions when I've seen the world, as well as the tragedy it has faced.

Mostly, I've asked these questions in terms of my health. While I've writhed in pain, I've cried out to God, "Where are you? Why are you letting this happen? Rescue me!"

 

I'm sure you've faced similar experiences. If it hasn't been a death or illness, maybe it has been a broken relationship or disappointment. Who knows, but I bet that you've asked the why, where, and how questions before.

 

While some people may say that questioning God is bad, Pastor Eric encouraged us that questions are good. Questions are healthy, as well as emotions (even anger and sadness). He said, "being Christian doesn't mean we have it altogether, but what happens when you get it wrong."

 

So be encouraged if you are facing a drought right now and don't understand why...I may not have an answer for you, but I do know it isn't because God has left you. He hasn't left you. He is by your side. He never promised that life would be easy. He never said that if you follow Him nothing bad will happen, but instead Jesus said, "take up your cross and follow me" (Matthew 16:24).  The cross may be heavy and may rub the wrong way at times, but it's worth it in the end.

 

Don't feel ashamed to question or to feel emotion. Lean upon God and have hope.

You see, a drought is always followed by a shower.

If you are in a drought, I pray that you will feel a shower of love, peace, and comfort that only God can provide.

(If you need more encouragement check out my post, Joy Abounds),

 

In loving memory of Andi & Jim - 2 people I was blessed to have known.

 

 

 

Don't forget to pray for the unreached people group of the day!

 

Reading plan for the week:

Today: 2 Chronicles 28-31

Tuesday: 2 Chronicles 32-34

Wednesday: 2 Chronicles 35-36

Thursday: Ezra 1-3

Friday: Ezra 4-7

Saturday: Ezra 8-10

 

 

 

I like a challenge

Going to new places and seeing new things is always fun for me. Driving through a new town, seeing the sights creates an excitement in me and a motivation to explore!

Seeing the landscape, learning about the history of the town, and {probably} getting lost along on the way, keeps me on my toes and gives me a challenge.

{I like a challenge!}

It doesn't always stay that way...new places turn into old places, the unfamiliar turn into familiar, and the uncomfortable becomes comfortable.

 

The day my family started looking for places to move, we drove to this country town (my hometown now) and kept our eyes peeled of our surroundings. We were checking out the houses, schools, stores, land and more. We didn't want to miss a thing. Our eyes were wide open to make sure that this was the place we wanted to live.

 

15 years later and I no longer pay close attention to the small details of my hometown. 

 You know why?

I'm comfortable.

I can tell you all the short cuts, which roads lead to what cities, and of course, where you can find the best sno-cones in town ;)

The familiar can be rather comfortable (and that's okay!),

BUT when we start to get comfortable and familiar, we stop exploring.

We stop finding new routes or meeting new people and we stay in our comfort zone, afraid to become unfamiliar.

 

This reminds me of how our faith can become. We often get comfortable with what we learned from our parents and church, which keeps us barricaded in our own comfort zone.

Now, I'm NOT saying rebel from your parents and picket the church, but I AM saying, don't be afraid to move the barricades and set out on an unknown road. We stop reading our Bibles. We stop asking questions. We stop hearing different perspectives and we wonder why we aren't getting anywhere. We're stagnant, comfortable, and familiar.

There's nothing wrong with believing what your parents or church believes, but don't be afraid to challenge yourself by thinking outside of your comfort zone.

 

Study the Bible for yourself and not for anyone else.

Read articles/books.

Talk and listen to people with different perspectives.

Find someone who will challenge you.

Keep an open mind.

Don't be afraid to get uncomfortable.

It's important to never let your faith get familiar.

Have a heart that is always wanting to learn and grow.

Maybe you aren't ready to get out of your comfort zone and I totally understand.

That's okay!

Come to God and ask that He gives you a heart that is ready to embark on a journey of growing closer to Him, even if it's uncomfortable.

I've definitely had my fair share of familiarity, but thankfully God brought someone into my life that has challenged me to ask the tough questions. Someone who isn't going to judge me and tell me what to believe, but to simply challenge me to seek out the nature of God.

 

I hope and pray that you can be challenged the same way! Feel free to email me if you are unable to find someone who can challenge you-I'd love to talk :)

Don't forget to pray for the unreached people group of the day! 

 

This week's Bible reading plan:

Monday: 1 Chronicle 1-2

Tuesday: 1 Chronicle 3-5

Wednesday: 1 Chronicle 6

Thursday: 1 Chronicle 7-8

Friday: 1 Chronicle 9-11

Saturday: 1 Chronicle 12-14

 

 

 

 

Award? I got an award?!

So yesterday- I found out from my fellow Blogger over at Behind The Smile, that she nominated me for two blog awards- The Versatile blogger and Liebster Awards. That was definitely a nice surprise, especially since I'm somewhat of a blogger newbie and had no clue they did "blog awards". Thank you so much for nominating me! Please check out her blog, Behind The Smile-I'm one of her followers and it is obvious that she has a gift of writing!

 

Because I was nominated, I get to answer some questions!

 

Q1. Who is the person who has influenced your life the most and why? This is such a hard question- so many people have influenced my life...so I'm going to the Sunday School answer (which is true)...JESUS!! Nuff said. :)

Q2. Do you have a saying or a quote which is your favourite and you refer to often? Jeremiah 29:11 - 'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.'

Q3. What is your greatest fear? I'm gonna go with snakes. Yep-just thinking about them gives me the heebee-jeebees. Moving on...

Q4. If you could turn back the clock what would you change? If anything? I would probably take my time in college, instead of rushing through, but then again, it has been a blessing that I graduated early. So I have mixed emotions.

Q5. What do you do to be kind to yourself? Hmm...I guess I'm being kind to myself by trying my hardest to be healthy and get better so I can get into remission of my Lyme Disease. I would say that's pretty kind. It's also kind of my parents too, they're a huge help...couldn't do it without them.

Q6. Name two positive attributes/gifts you have? According to friends, one would be that I'm a good listener. Another one...I like to think that I'm a positive person. I try to find the good in everything.

Q7. Name one new skill you would like to learn? Cooking (yes, mom, I said it)...but I'm such a perfectionist and it really upsets me when I mess the food up. I know, I know...I have to work on it, especially if I want to have a man in my life ;)

Q8. Do you attend church? If so what do you like about your church? Yes- I love to know that there are so many different people all there, at one time, worshipping together. It's an awesome feeling!

Q9. What are you thankful for? There's so much to be thankful for...the first thing that comes to mind, is my doctor. I am so thankful that God has put him in my life. I know He is working through him-I can feel it!

Q10. What makes you smile? My Lyme puppy, Lola. Yes-I have Lyme and she does too. Crazy, huh?! I love her.

Q11. Why do you blog? I used to be against blogging because I thought it was narcissitic. Ha and what am I doing now? Well, my mind has changed about blogging, because I feel that God really led me to blog, just like many other people. Today, the internet is such a huge way to minister to people and my prayer is that God is using me and my story through blogging.

 

A part of this award process is to pay it award forward by nominating other bloggers! All of the blogs listed below are nominated for both awards! Please go check out these blogs- they're awesome! If you aren't on this list, please know that this list would continue if I had time-all of you rock! So go on ahead and join in on the fun...I think everyone who blogs deserves it.

 

1. God Told Me to Put Down the Cake

2. 3 Wishes

3. Some Things Wrong

4. (Bee)autiful Blessings

5. After Nine to Five

6. Anchored in Love

7. From Ashes to Beauty

8. From Kristen, With Love

9. Mama to 4 Blessings

10. The Wellspring

11. Whispering Sweet Nothings

 

If you are nominated, please use the award images (above) and follow these rules: (You pick which one or both...I just followed the Liebster Award rules)

Versatile Blogger pay it forward rules:

1) Thank person who nominated you, include a link to their blog, include an image of the award in your post.

2) Give seven random facts about yourself

3) Nominate 10 bloggers for the award to pay it forward to.

 

Liebster award pay it forward rules:

1) List 11 facts about yourself

2)Answer 11 questions given to you

3) Create 11 new questions for the bloggers you have nominated for the award, mind go to their blogs

and tell them you have nominated them.

4) Choose 11 bloggers (it is recommended for those with 200 or fewer followers, if you wish)

5) Thank the person who nominated you and link back to their blog.

If you would like to answer the questions, here they are:

 

 1. Favorite kind of pizza?

2. What gets you energized on a Monday morning?

3. What is the one thing you couldn't live without?

4. Do you have any pets?

5. What is one thing you would like to change about yourself?

6. Name one place you would like to travel to.

7. Favorite song?

8. Favorite author?

9. What is a pet peeve of yours?

10. What was your dream job as a child?

11. What motivated you to blog?

 

 

Have fun & thank you ALL for sharing your gift of writing! :)