Typically, as we enter college or the workforce, we begin to ask “Who am I? Why am I here?” A bit over a month ago I read the Sartre quote, “Without God, we are condemned to be free... Everything is indeed permitted if God does not exist, and man is in consequence forlorn, for he cannot find anything to depend upon either within or outside himself.” So, take a look at the chart above, and where we get meaning.
Read MoreTransforming Gratitude--Thursday
Jesus. A real person. Anchored in history. Four biographies written by his contemporaries. All attest he was the Son of God. But what does he look like? In most depictions in America he looks Caucasian. Shop for a velvet painting in Tijuana—Hispanic. I’ve seen images of him as black, Asian, about all. We all seem to envision him like ourselves, and I kind of like that. But…
Read MoreTransforming Gratitude--Wednesday
Thanking God for a Purposeful World
In researching a book proposal I came across a quote by Jean Paul Sartre, “Without God, we are condemned to be free…Everything is indeed permitted if God does not exist, and man is in consequence forlorn, for he cannot find anything to depend upon either within or outside himself.” Or, we have no purpose beyond a relentless pursuit of personal pleasure and advancement.” Kind of describes our culture—a zero sum game where we compete for who gets the most. That’s life without God, but…
Read MoreTransforming Gratitude--Tuesday
Although they’d never admit it publicly, among themselves pastors often confess, “I really love the church. But I sure struggle with some of the people.” And we’re all like that, being imperfect with some rough edges. Science defines friction as two uneven surfaces that rub against one another, producing heat.” We can all relate to that. However…
Read MoreTransforming Gratitude--Monday
The brevity of Thanksgiving has long troubled me. One day. And really, just a moment there, with a quick prayer of thanks before feasting with the family begins, before old stories are remembered and new ones get shared, before we chew down a handful of Tums. Then a good friend, Murray Pura, piqued my thoughts by posting a Canadian Thanksgiving menu covering four days. Why can’t we focus on…
Read MorePray. Like This
Following Jesus has its difficulties, and prayer ranks near the top. Communication with the God we love shouldn’t distress, but it often does. Even the apostles need to ask for a prayer lesson, in Matthew 6:9. Mutual, two-way communication builds any relationship, and the lack brings damage. I do OK with trying to stay aware of God each moment of the day. I try to say thinks for the good stuff, and rely on him for help with the bad stuff. On the big decisions, I’m decent with immersing it in prayer. But I’m not OK…
Read MoreBucket Lists
Bucket lists typically focus on getting dreams finished near the end of life, but we all have goals and dreams and hopes. Important tasks we desire to do. However, we all face limits that hinder those. It may be physical conditions. Despite my love of playing football, I knew that would never occur in the NFL. Too small to be a linebacker or lineman, too slow for backfield spots. Now, I did…
Read MoreThe Key to Intimacy Is...
How do we enhance intimacy in human relationships? An important question, since as humans we’re so enmeshed with others. But I suspect what builds intimacy between humans often works between humans and God. Makes sense, since he created us in his image. That key is…
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