“Restoration in the image of God” is the restoration of a capability of God which opens us to God the way lungs are opened to fresh air. We receive and we yield what we have received in a rhythm of love, praise, and prayer. Restoration in the image of God is bringing back to God what he has given, it is releasing one’s grip, emptying one’s pockets, yielding one’s very life as a sacrifice to the One to whom the crucified one prayed.” Craig Keen I’m glad I attended ONU during the years Dr. Keen taught Systematic. There are people we meet in life who’s words affect us more than we realize. Some authorities, when they speak, their words become a roadmap which we follow almost religiously, wanting to align ourselves with their thoughts and goals…sometimes mindlessly. There are others, however, such as Dr.Keen, whose words become a catalyst. A door-opening password almost, into a world of thought and belief that energizes the very core of who we are, and why we are. Another quote that I enjoy from the beginning of his paper…he quotes from Feuerbach. Now, I don’t pretend to know who Feuerbach is, although I can slightly remember the name. Anyway, the quote reads “Theology is Anthropology”. The study of God IS the study of people. His paper discusses many of the thoughts/beliefs surrounding the beginning of Genesis…where Adam is created “…in the image of God…” He talks about this not being a characteristic, or a trait…placed inside a human like a marble in a jar. But rather the interaction. The action taking place between God and humanity. Being this, Christ is the completion, literally IS the image of God that we are being created in. Neat Stuff. So to be human…is to be in interaction with God. Which really is not surprising to most of us. We realize humanity is constantly searching for something “other”. When interacting with that “other”…we become more human, in every definition of the term. Anyway…that’s enough for now. Target is selling Graples…pronounced Grape-ls. Apples that look like apples, but taste like grapes. I have yet to try one, but I have a feeling I’ll be disappointed. Not really an apple fanatic or a grape lover. But for those who appreciate either/both….you’re sure to enjoy it or be offended deeply. Snot. I’ve got a whole lot of it lately, and a swollen throat as well. God bless colds. I love my wife. Today I had forgotten my laptop in her trunk, and didn’t realize this until she’d already left for school. I had to run out to get it. But get this…I couldn’t just stop and get it and leave, without seeing her. I’ve still got that dating infatuation with her that I hope I never lose. So anyway, I also couldn’t just stop in, say hi…and leave. I had to find some reason to go into the school, interrupt class, and see her. So I stopped by the local Osco…great for affordable romantic gifts by the way. Got some candy hearts I know she loves, and a puppy. Got to the school….went in, interrupted and gave them to her. I pat myself on the back now…I’m a good husband. She knows I love her ,and was thinking of her. Then before I drove away I got my laptop out of her car. She had no idea.J Anyways….all that to say, I love loving my wife.J Hope you’re having a great week. Pray for me as I continue seeking employment in Decatur, as well as explore other possibilities/opportunities that might be there. I’m looking forward to traveling/preaching more. If you know of anyone who needs a speaker for an event…let me know!!! God bless…Amen.
Month: January 2005
Beginning to study Romans verse by verse. Realizing more and more looking at the text, how much Paul and I are alike. In the introduction to Romans, it doesn’t begin by telling exactly where Paul had gone, who he’d ministered to, or even how he ministered. It begins with the most important….He is a servant…a called apostle….of Christ.
What lies ahead? What will I be doing? Where will my work take me? Not completely sure. But I know that which can never be changed…I’ve been called…and set aside for a specific work and function….as a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I’m excited to see where all of this will lead. I’ve connected with a few today, who I hadn’t spoken with in a while. A friend who is doing God’s work in Europe, but will return in April. Kendall and I traveled in Praize together, so it is good to hear an update on how God is using him. I hope our paths cross again in the near future. With me trying to speak/travel more, and he wanting to be used as a worship leader/singer/guitarist…etc….I can definitely see that happening.
Good day today. Relaxing. Good coffee. Great chai, and again, a new location to sit around lunchtime, cause Panera’s too busy. “Java Heaven” on 16th near Edgewood. I recommend it to anyone looking for a great place for lunch, snack, or coffee and wi-fi.
God Bless….Amen.
God is good.
What a rough weekend….in every way imaginable. I’m sick, stuffed…sore…etc. Tired, exhausted both physically/spiritually. Yesterday was my official resignation from CR 1st Church. It was, and will be still….tough. But in a way I’m glad it’s as tough as it is. It would be far worse if it was easy to part ways, on either or both sides. As it stands, it hurts to leave, and I can sense it hurts to be left as well. I’m thankful for that. God has definitely used us to affect lives here, and there has been purpose and reason for all that has gone on here. This church will forever be the church that first called me “Pastor” and taught me so much more than years of college/seminary could ever attempt to. I love this church. And am reminded in that statement, that by church I don’t mean the building. I love this church family. The teens, their families, their friends, and even those who visited once or twice, and I never saw again. I feel the burden that Christ felt for His bride. I pray God rises up those who feel that same love to continue the ministry that has been going on through us. I’m getting emotional. Sorry.
Anyways…what does tomorrow hold? Anything at this point. There are several Nazarene churches with lots of ministries/programs for me to dig into Decatur. There are also many avenues of traveling/speaking available that I’ve begun to look into. For those who read this…please be continuing to pray for God’s direction/guidance and door-opening abilities for our future. Thanks:)
ps. New coffee shop in CR…over by Walgreens on 16th…”Java Heaven”. They’ve got Wi-Fi and are significantly less busy than Panera around lunchtime. I forsee a month filled with their signature brew. God bless….Amen.
words from wick 