2008: Will I "BE" or Will I "DO?"

When I was a kid, it seems that every time an adult asked me about "my future" the question was always stated as "what do you want to be when you grow up?" I can't say that anyone ever asked me "what do you want to do when you grow up?" I think I know why! I've learned there is a HUGE difference between "doing" and "being." What we want to do in life is not nearly as important as what we want to be in life. "Doing" is related to earthly things such as "vocation" or "career." But, "being," on the other hand, goes much deeper because it relates to character, who we are, and how we use our life. "Doing" is related more to tangible things such as annual income, trophies, medals, awards or material possessions. "Being" has more to do with the things in life that can't be measured by literal yardsticks, trophy cases, or bank statements. "Being" is built on character, morals, integrity and, most importantly, upon the foundation of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of our lives. That means, by "being," we are trustworthy, dependable, loyal, kind, and loving people who give generously of themselves and of their possessions. By "being" we live out what Jim Elliot so eloquently stated that, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." As the New Year approaches, vow to "be" in 2008...and beyond. Happy New Year!

Presents or Presence for Christmas?

Commercialism, consumer spending, gifts, trees, office parties, and decorations...many things we associate with Christmas. Unfortunately, if you noticed, Jesus was not mentioned in the list. I did that intentionally just to see if you noticed it or not. We can sometimes get so wound up and caught up in the "concept" of Christmas that we forget the "Christ" who gives us Christmas. It is rather difficult to forget about Jesus at Christmas. Jesus is our Master, the Bridegroom, the Good Shepherd, our Prophet, Priest, and King. He is the Lord of lords and King of kings. Jesus Christ...the Holy One of God. He truly is "Emmanuel," God with us. Christmas isn't about a "holiday season" called Christmas...it is about Jesus Christ. It isn't about "presents" of toys or clothing, but Jesus Christ's "presence" in our lives. It is my prayer that you will desire God's presence within you more than presents from under the tree this season (and always). Don't get consumed in the consumerism of celebrating Christmas. Just celebrate Jesus! May your life be a continual declaration of Thomas' revelation in John 20:28, "My Lord and my God!" Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year in 2008.

Merry X-Mas

Merry WHAT??? Grrrrrr! Don't you dare replace the name of "Christ" with an "X!" I'm being a little facetious, but in all honesty, I can't tell you how irritating I use to find people who used "X" instead of "Christ" when displaying or writing out the word "Christmas." The same was true for any marque, business or sign that displayed that big 'ol "X" instead of the name of "Christ." I thought "how lazy, irreverent, and sacrilegious must you be to 'x-out' Christ?" Until I learned an interesting theological point behind the "X" did I finally become comfortable using the "X." You see, we must go back and learn that the Greek word for Christ is Xristos. Did you catch the first letter in that word? YOU GUESSED IT!! It is an "X!" Thus the abbreviation is simply a “X.” Therefore, the term X-mas is not taking Christ out of Christmas at all. So, now, instead of being offended, I simply grin with a modest chuckle realizing that those who THINK they are taking "Christ" out of Christmas by using an "X" are actually KEEPING the name of Christ in Christmas after all! You just can't silence the message of Isaiah 9:6, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Have a blessed Christmas season and, by the way, MERRY X-MAS!!

The Money Song

I was fortunate enough...or should I say "blessed"enough...to grow up in the church. As the years passed it became apparent that beyond the standard flow of the Sunday service such as hymns, prayers, and sermons, there were other "expected" responses such as "The Gloria Patri," "The Lord's Prayer," "Apostles' Creed" and one song known as "The Doxology." Interestingly enough this one particular "song" was always sung right after taking up the offering. I began to believe that this song was the "money song" or the "offering song" since it was sung while the ushers brought the offering plates forward to give to the pastor. However, now that I have become a pastor/chaplain, I have had the opportunity to study and teach the true meaning behind "the money song" which is known in most bulletins as the "DOXOLOGY." I quickly found that this word is anything but "just the money song" sung after the offering. You see, the word doxology is actually two Greek words in one. The first is doxa which means "glory" and logos which means "words" or "to speak." So, doxology can be words, songs, or any other form of speech that is used to give God glory for His provisions, mercy, and love. So, the next time you find yourself in need to thank God (which is basically all the time and for just about everything), try singing the doxology to Him. Also, try singing the doxology as your supper prayer…maybe sing the doxology before concluding your prayer and devotional time, or the first conscious moments of the day as your alarm clock awakes you from your night's sleep. It can make a big difference in your day...or should I say will make a big difference in your day...as much as it will give God worship and glory. I'm so glad to know that this wonderful song is so much more than just "the money song." Let's lift our voices..."Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise him all creatures here below. Praise him above ye heavenly hosts. Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen."