This was one of only two days that I'll spend reading Mark. Mark was the only Gospel that I took at Ozark. I really enjoyed, but I think it mostly had to do with the teacher - Mark Scott.
One of the things I remember accenting in class was the pace at which Mark tells the story. It's all very fast until the last week of Jesus' life. Then it's like everything is in slow motion.
In both Gospel accounts I have enjoyed reading Jesus' teaching on inner purity as opposed to outward impressions. If the truth be told this is something I think we all struggle with. On a much smaller and more insignificant scale we often don't make our bed. Sure we like it when it's made (me probably more), but neither of us care that much about it to make it regularly. BUT, when we know people will be around we make it. Why is that? I'm not supposing that our bed (made or unmade) impacts our spiritual health (though a few might make that assumption). I am saying that as usual we're more concerned about things when we know people will see them.
I'm afraid this does come into play in my own spiritual life. I'm reading 90 days through the Bible and I've told some people. Actually Sunday I'm planning on talking about it briefly in service so that cat will be out of the bag. What I won't mention however is that I'm not sure it has really made a difference in my life. Sure I've enjoyed the discipline of it, and I think it is helpful and almost expected of a pastor, but do I think differently, pray differently, or act differently because of God's Word constantly being on my mind. I'm not sure if I do. The reality is that I've probably prayed and journaled less the past 70 days then before I started this venture. I'm not sure what that says.
What I do know is that I need to be concerned with what happens on the inside, and I'm not always sure that's good. Jesus tried to teach the Pharisees that, and it's a lesson that I need to learn as well.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Matthew 16 - 26:56
Being around worship leaders, worship conferences, and worship books I often hear about the role we play in leading people to God's throne room...or some other nice little quaint saying (I admit this post is going to be a little tongue-in-cheek so don't take me too seriously).
Let's think about it. There's even a song, "I want to know you, I want to hear you voice, I want to know you more. I want to touch you, I want to see your face. I want to know you more." Now I'm all for intimacy and loving God, but it always seems like when man and God happen to meet while out on a casual stroll the experience is a bit intimidating. Think about!
Here's an example in Matthew 18 - the transfiguration: But even as he spoke, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, "This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy. Listen to him."6 The disciples were terrified and fell face down on the ground.
Causes me to think maybe we should be so quick to traipse into God's presence. What do you think?
Let's think about it. There's even a song, "I want to know you, I want to hear you voice, I want to know you more. I want to touch you, I want to see your face. I want to know you more." Now I'm all for intimacy and loving God, but it always seems like when man and God happen to meet while out on a casual stroll the experience is a bit intimidating. Think about!
Here's an example in Matthew 18 - the transfiguration: But even as he spoke, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, "This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy. Listen to him."6 The disciples were terrified and fell face down on the ground.
Causes me to think maybe we should be so quick to traipse into God's presence. What do you think?
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Matthew 5 - 15
At work (church)we are constantly trying to emphasize people's stories. Testimonies, personal impacts, whatever you want to call them...they contain great power. It's funny how after you hear of someone's life change that you are changed or at least inspired...even if just a little bit.
Today I read about Jesus walking on water. He called out for Peter and he obeyed. Then Peter's doubt and insecurity led him to question the reality of how Jesus was sustaining him. Jesus saved him (pun intended) and the next thing we read about is worship - corporate worship.
When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped.33 Then the disciples worshiped him. "You really are the Son of God!" they exclaimed.
The question for all Christian is how does our story, our testimony, the way our life intersects' God's...how do we share all of that so that it leads people to worship. Something to consider...
Today I read about Jesus walking on water. He called out for Peter and he obeyed. Then Peter's doubt and insecurity led him to question the reality of how Jesus was sustaining him. Jesus saved him (pun intended) and the next thing we read about is worship - corporate worship.
When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped.33 Then the disciples worshiped him. "You really are the Son of God!" they exclaimed.
The question for all Christian is how does our story, our testimony, the way our life intersects' God's...how do we share all of that so that it leads people to worship. Something to consider...
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Zechariah 11 - Matthew 4
It is day #70. Only 20 days remain to read the entire New Testament. I can't believe it's already been that long. Just as a reminder to me and any of my 3 readers out there... the purpose of this blog isn't to just comment about my reading but specifically identify things that help to teach about worship.
In Matthew I read the birth narrative...just like we do every Christmas. It is fitting though that within the very first part of the account of Jesus we see that there are those seeking to worship him. These wise men not only seek to worship him but they risk their life potentially trudging across county to see the new born King. What devotion!
In Matthew I read the birth narrative...just like we do every Christmas. It is fitting though that within the very first part of the account of Jesus we see that there are those seeking to worship him. These wise men not only seek to worship him but they risk their life potentially trudging across county to see the new born King. What devotion!
Monday, July 26, 2010
Habakkuk - Zechariah 10
Tomorrow is day 70 and that means I start reading the New Testament tomorrow. So very excited!
Today I read Habakkuk which brought back some great memories. In arranging we had to write a song. I've never claimed to be a song writer, but it's funny the people who think I should be. Somehow when you're a worship minister everyone assumes that you're just like Chris Tomlin or Paul Baloche. Well my first and only attempt to write a song was for class...and that's only because I had to.
They lyrics were from Habakkuk 3. "I have heard all about you, Lord. I am filled with awe by your amazing works. In this time of our deep need, help us again as you did in years gone by. And in your anger remember mercy." No, it's nothing that any respectable lyricist would be eager to publish, but is is scripture after all.
Today I read Habakkuk which brought back some great memories. In arranging we had to write a song. I've never claimed to be a song writer, but it's funny the people who think I should be. Somehow when you're a worship minister everyone assumes that you're just like Chris Tomlin or Paul Baloche. Well my first and only attempt to write a song was for class...and that's only because I had to.
They lyrics were from Habakkuk 3. "I have heard all about you, Lord. I am filled with awe by your amazing works. In this time of our deep need, help us again as you did in years gone by. And in your anger remember mercy." No, it's nothing that any respectable lyricist would be eager to publish, but is is scripture after all.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Obadiah - Nahum
Tomorrow is the last full day in the OT. Then it's off to the NT. I can't wait.
Nahum started out with a statement that I understand more now that I'm a father. He says in 1:2 - "The Lord is a jealous God." Today Audrey was very affectionate wanting to give us hugs and kisses. I absolutely love it! But, I realize that this day will likely come to an end. There will be a day when another man (or boy in my eyes) will come along and be far more cooler, better looking, and wiser then old dad. That boy may in fact choose to marry my daughter and in some ways, thinking of these early days, my heart will break.
God is just as jealous with our love, but yet I run to things that appear to be cooler, better looking, and wiser than God. Though I cannot know what it is like to sacrifice my son for the sins of the world, I do think that now (thanks to Audrey) I know what it is like to be a jealous Father.
Nahum started out with a statement that I understand more now that I'm a father. He says in 1:2 - "The Lord is a jealous God." Today Audrey was very affectionate wanting to give us hugs and kisses. I absolutely love it! But, I realize that this day will likely come to an end. There will be a day when another man (or boy in my eyes) will come along and be far more cooler, better looking, and wiser then old dad. That boy may in fact choose to marry my daughter and in some ways, thinking of these early days, my heart will break.
God is just as jealous with our love, but yet I run to things that appear to be cooler, better looking, and wiser than God. Though I cannot know what it is like to sacrifice my son for the sins of the world, I do think that now (thanks to Audrey) I know what it is like to be a jealous Father.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Hosea 13:7 - Amos 9
It's getting closer. With every small book of prophecy I'm one day closer to the New Testament. Oh, it's going to be so nice. I also feel like there's a sense of anticipation in what I'm reading.
Multiple times in Amos there is a pending judgment that is portrayed. "The people of Israel have sinned again and again, and I will not let them go unpunished!"
God is a just God and the only way that justice is fulfilled is through Christ. It's good to see the Gospel story articulated even here in Amos!
Multiple times in Amos there is a pending judgment that is portrayed. "The people of Israel have sinned again and again, and I will not let them go unpunished!"
God is a just God and the only way that justice is fulfilled is through Christ. It's good to see the Gospel story articulated even here in Amos!
Daniel 9 - Hosea 13:6
I'm hoping to catch up today. Two readings in one day and I'll be back on track. VBS is over so things will hopefully begin to settle down a little bit.
Today I started reading Hosea. In homeletics (preaching) class in college I remember a sermon preached by a student that I really liked. It was on the whole book of Hosea. There's some really interesting aspects of the book - specifically in regards to how the relationship between God and Israel is represented by a husband and a prostituting wife.
In chapter six I was intrigued by these words:
Come, let us return to the Lord. He has torn us to pieces; now he will heal us. He has injured us; now he will bandage our wounds. In just a short time he will restore us so that we may live in his presence. Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know him.
Wow! To think that God will all us to be broken, torn apart, even wounded so that we may know him better. Interesting...
Today I started reading Hosea. In homeletics (preaching) class in college I remember a sermon preached by a student that I really liked. It was on the whole book of Hosea. There's some really interesting aspects of the book - specifically in regards to how the relationship between God and Israel is represented by a husband and a prostituting wife.
In chapter six I was intrigued by these words:
Come, let us return to the Lord. He has torn us to pieces; now he will heal us. He has injured us; now he will bandage our wounds. In just a short time he will restore us so that we may live in his presence. Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know him.
Wow! To think that God will all us to be broken, torn apart, even wounded so that we may know him better. Interesting...
Friday, July 23, 2010
Ezekiel 47:13 - Daniel 8
In Daniel we read a little about Nebuchadnezzar. He is a character I think we can relate to. At one point in chapter 4 he says, "Look at this great city of Babylon! By my own might power, I have built this beautiful city..."
Our culture (I'll even say American culture) is intentional about creating and building things and being proud of them. It's a way of life, success, and achievement that defines us in many ways. Unfortunately that can also lead to a sense of pride as we admire or even worship our accomplishments. Governments put people on the moon, churches build for thousands, and the scholarly earn degrees.
I'm not say that any of this is wrong, but what is wrong is the admiration and pride that we seek from it. Nebuchadnezzar learned this the hard way. The result was an unpleasant humbling and subsequent time of praise quoted below. My question is do we even realize that we need humbling?
34 "After this time had passed, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever.
His rule is everlasting,
and his kingdom is eternal.
35 All the people of the earth
are nothing compared to him.
He does as he pleases
among the angels of heaven
and among the people of the earth.
No one can stop him or say to him,
`What do you mean by doing these things?'
Our culture (I'll even say American culture) is intentional about creating and building things and being proud of them. It's a way of life, success, and achievement that defines us in many ways. Unfortunately that can also lead to a sense of pride as we admire or even worship our accomplishments. Governments put people on the moon, churches build for thousands, and the scholarly earn degrees.
I'm not say that any of this is wrong, but what is wrong is the admiration and pride that we seek from it. Nebuchadnezzar learned this the hard way. The result was an unpleasant humbling and subsequent time of praise quoted below. My question is do we even realize that we need humbling?
34 "After this time had passed, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever.
His rule is everlasting,
and his kingdom is eternal.
35 All the people of the earth
are nothing compared to him.
He does as he pleases
among the angels of heaven
and among the people of the earth.
No one can stop him or say to him,
`What do you mean by doing these things?'
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Ezekiel 36 - Ezekiel 47:1-12
This was the final reading that was completely in Ezekiel. I can honestly say I don't think I've ever read much of Ezekiel. It is a little odd, but I was surprised to find prophecy of the Temple towards the end. I'm curious to know how much this is similar to what was built.
It wasn't until I studied during my master's degree that I put together the progression of worship locations. Tabernacle - Temple - Synagogue. Interesting kinda...
It wasn't until I studied during my master's degree that I put together the progression of worship locations. Tabernacle - Temple - Synagogue. Interesting kinda...
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Ezekiel 23:40 - 35
The righteous behavior of righteous people will not save them if they turn to sin, nor will the wicked behavior of wicked people destroy them if they repent and turn from their sins.
After reading this verse I'm very thankful for redemption. Nothing I can do can save me past or future. Only by God's grace offered through Christ. That drives us and enables us to worship.
After reading this verse I'm very thankful for redemption. Nothing I can do can save me past or future. Only by God's grace offered through Christ. That drives us and enables us to worship.
Ezekiel 12:21 - 23:39
I will examine you carefully and hold you to the terms of the covenant.38 I will purge you of all those who rebel and revolt against me. I will bring them out of the countries where they are in exile, but they will never enter the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am the Lord .
Hell is real, and really important. I remember a professor in college who taught a lecture on the doctrine of hell. He whole premise was that without a real hell, God is not just, and thus not perfect. A perfect God cannot be in the presence of sin so therefore there must be a consequence. That consequence is God's judgment and subsequent hell.
I loved this passage in Ezekiel because it was a little raw. - "I will...hold you to the terms of the covenant...and purge all those who rebel...Then you will know I am the Lord."
I am glad I worship a perfect God who keeps his end of the bargain. Otherwise he wouldn't be God.
Hell is real, and really important. I remember a professor in college who taught a lecture on the doctrine of hell. He whole premise was that without a real hell, God is not just, and thus not perfect. A perfect God cannot be in the presence of sin so therefore there must be a consequence. That consequence is God's judgment and subsequent hell.
I loved this passage in Ezekiel because it was a little raw. - "I will...hold you to the terms of the covenant...and purge all those who rebel...Then you will know I am the Lord."
I am glad I worship a perfect God who keeps his end of the bargain. Otherwise he wouldn't be God.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Lamentation 2 - Ezekiel 12:20
Okay so I've really gotten behind now. I'm about three days behind and it looks like I'm not going to catch up tonight. Life's been very busy between the regular ministry job, added VBS responsibilities, and MUNI after dark. That has led to be being home about 8 hours a day and I've opted for them to all to be sleeping hours.
Today I began Ezekiel. More prophecy. Several times God tells Ezekiel that he is going to minister to rebellious people who disobey. He warns them that they will not listen but to go anyway. There is a level of obedience that is prominent in the writing of the Old Testament. Even when we are called to difficult ministries that level of difficulty does not negate it's importance. After all we've all heard it said great things don't come easy.
Today I began Ezekiel. More prophecy. Several times God tells Ezekiel that he is going to minister to rebellious people who disobey. He warns them that they will not listen but to go anyway. There is a level of obedience that is prominent in the writing of the Old Testament. Even when we are called to difficult ministries that level of difficulty does not negate it's importance. After all we've all heard it said great things don't come easy.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Jeremiah 48 - Lamentations 1
Done with Jeremiah! Yes. Today I moved onto Lamentations. Still lots of poetry (not my favorite) but a different mood at least.
I remember a few years ago I attended a lament worship service for the first time in my life. The whole purpose was to give worshipers a chance to cry out to God for the injustices that they had experienced or witnessed during their life. Stuff like sexual exploitation, the global effect of disease, malnutrition, and poverty. Personal impacts including lost of a loved one, abuse, and hard times were also folder for our "prayers of lament." It was a very interesting service.
I'm looking forward to my five chapters of Lamentations. I think more lament could be included in personal times of worship - not whining, but crying out to God and praising him in spite of our earthly situation.
I remember a few years ago I attended a lament worship service for the first time in my life. The whole purpose was to give worshipers a chance to cry out to God for the injustices that they had experienced or witnessed during their life. Stuff like sexual exploitation, the global effect of disease, malnutrition, and poverty. Personal impacts including lost of a loved one, abuse, and hard times were also folder for our "prayers of lament." It was a very interesting service.
I'm looking forward to my five chapters of Lamentations. I think more lament could be included in personal times of worship - not whining, but crying out to God and praising him in spite of our earthly situation.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Jeremiah 33:23 - 47
I know, I know...pins and needles again. Well you see I got home at 11:30 (long day) and I knew I had a free day coming up this weekend. It was actually conveniently placed on Sunday which is a HUGE day at the church with Big Block Bash and VBS set up. I decided to use it yesterday.
Still more of Jeremiah, and still more of the same. Really it's kinda hard to care sometimes. I know it sounds awful, but this past week or so has been really hard. I long for the days of the New Testament...or even Daniel. There are some good stories in there. I just keep reminding myself that all of this fighting, war, and prophecy was so that God could allow a baby to be born. The baby would die giving us the opportunity to worship God.
That's my worship takeaway for today. Until tomorrow...
Still more of Jeremiah, and still more of the same. Really it's kinda hard to care sometimes. I know it sounds awful, but this past week or so has been really hard. I long for the days of the New Testament...or even Daniel. There are some good stories in there. I just keep reminding myself that all of this fighting, war, and prophecy was so that God could allow a baby to be born. The baby would die giving us the opportunity to worship God.
That's my worship takeaway for today. Until tomorrow...
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Jeremiah 23:9 - 33:22
So I was about ready to just vent and pretty much be like - "I hate reading through Jeremiah." Hate. I know it's a strong word, and may be even be sinful to mention. It's kinda the truth. At this point I'm pushing through for the shear discipline. The friend that I'm joining in on with this effort agreed with me.
That all was until I read this gem. I really like it and what it means for our worship. Read on...
I will certainly bring my people back again from all the countries where I will scatter them in my fury. I will bring them back to this very city and let them live in peace and safety.38 They will be my people, and I will be their God.39 And I will give them one heart and one purpose: to worship me forever, for their own good and for the good of all their descendants.40 And I will make an everlasting covenant with them: I will never stop doing good for them. I will put a desire in their hearts to worship me, and they will never leave me.41 I will find joy doing good for them and will faithfully and wholeheartedly replant them in this land.
Does God place a desire in our hearts to worship him? I think so. He has surely made a covenant (promise) with us as well. I'm grateful that God has pursued me and longs to have a relationship with me...even if I don't always enjoy reading his Word.
That all was until I read this gem. I really like it and what it means for our worship. Read on...
I will certainly bring my people back again from all the countries where I will scatter them in my fury. I will bring them back to this very city and let them live in peace and safety.38 They will be my people, and I will be their God.39 And I will give them one heart and one purpose: to worship me forever, for their own good and for the good of all their descendants.40 And I will make an everlasting covenant with them: I will never stop doing good for them. I will put a desire in their hearts to worship me, and they will never leave me.41 I will find joy doing good for them and will faithfully and wholeheartedly replant them in this land.
Does God place a desire in our hearts to worship him? I think so. He has surely made a covenant (promise) with us as well. I'm grateful that God has pursued me and longs to have a relationship with me...even if I don't always enjoy reading his Word.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Jeremiah 10:14-23:8
It's pretty simple at this point. When it comes to worship God wants. When we don't give it to him it doesn't work out well...at all. That essential seems to the point of Jeremiah. Simple I know but that's the reality. That and it's midnight.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Jeremiah 1-10:13
I cannot think of a time that I have helped a friend weather the storm of a spouse's affair. People I know have committed an affair or have been the victim of one, but I've never been a part of helping someone work through that.
From what I do know though they aren't pretty. Now imagine someone helping a friend through a spouse's affair with a prostitute. Obviously it's been done, but I'm sure the sting of rejection is even greater when the "love" was paid for.
That's the metaphor that I've read a lot of so far in Jeremiah. Israel is the adulterer and God is the patient spouse. "But you have prostituted yourself with many lovers, so why are you trying to come back to me? says the Lord."
It's hard to consider, but our worship of the world and of God is much like that of a prostitute. We love the world for selfish reasons and the quick fix that if offers is so temporary we are only longing for more. We're longing for the love and fulfillment that only Christ could bring.
From what I do know though they aren't pretty. Now imagine someone helping a friend through a spouse's affair with a prostitute. Obviously it's been done, but I'm sure the sting of rejection is even greater when the "love" was paid for.
That's the metaphor that I've read a lot of so far in Jeremiah. Israel is the adulterer and God is the patient spouse. "But you have prostituted yourself with many lovers, so why are you trying to come back to me? says the Lord."
It's hard to consider, but our worship of the world and of God is much like that of a prostitute. We love the world for selfish reasons and the quick fix that if offers is so temporary we are only longing for more. We're longing for the love and fulfillment that only Christ could bring.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Isaiah 52:13 - 66
Sixty six chapters later and Isaiah is done! Like I said before, I wasn't a big fan if I'm honest. Nevertheless it's part of the Bible so I'll read it through...and in 90 days to be exact.
The heading of Isaiah 58 is "True and False Worship." One of the verses warned "They ask me to take action on their behalf, pretending they want to be near me." I wonder when I've "pretended" to be near to God. Do I draw near him only when I want something - there's a crisis, I don't feel well, I need more help in my ministry, I'm being watched so I better "act pious." I wonder when it is that I put my mask on and begin "pretending."
The heading of Isaiah 58 is "True and False Worship." One of the verses warned "They ask me to take action on their behalf, pretending they want to be near me." I wonder when I've "pretended" to be near to God. Do I draw near him only when I want something - there's a crisis, I don't feel well, I need more help in my ministry, I'm being watched so I better "act pious." I wonder when it is that I put my mask on and begin "pretending."
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Isaiah 40:19 - 52:12
I have to be honest. Isaiah has been a little rough for me. I'm not sure if it's just the poetry, or lack of narrative, but it hasn't been that pleasurable for me to read. Sounds kina selfish and bad, but I'm just being honest.
One thing I have noticed through all the obscure symbolism is that God had a plan. God had a plan from the very beginning. Much of Isaiah's writing confirms that, warns of that, and predicts that plan. I'm thankful that even when I don't understand God has a plan.
One thing I have noticed through all the obscure symbolism is that God had a plan. God had a plan from the very beginning. Much of Isaiah's writing confirms that, warns of that, and predicts that plan. I'm thankful that even when I don't understand God has a plan.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Isaiah 29-40:18
It's good to be back home. After a week in Indianapolis it's nice to be sitting back in the comfort of my house. Don't get me wrong, my parents' house is nice, but it's just not the same anymore.
The first chapter of today's reading contained a stern warning for all worshipers.
"And so the Lord says, 'These people say they are mine. They honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. And their worship of me is nothing but man-made rules learned by rote.'"
Yikes! There are a lot of current videos out there mocking the "formula of worship." I may have experienced a little bit of it this week. I realize that only God can know our heart in worship. For that reason I'm here to confess that at times my heart is far from God in my worship, concerned only with the rote - the routines - the right formula. Lord have mercy.
The first chapter of today's reading contained a stern warning for all worshipers.
"And so the Lord says, 'These people say they are mine. They honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. And their worship of me is nothing but man-made rules learned by rote.'"
Yikes! There are a lot of current videos out there mocking the "formula of worship." I may have experienced a little bit of it this week. I realize that only God can know our heart in worship. For that reason I'm here to confess that at times my heart is far from God in my worship, concerned only with the rote - the routines - the right formula. Lord have mercy.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Isaiah 14 - 28
But you are a tower of refuge to the poor, O Lord ,
a tower of refuge to the needy in distress.
You are a refuge from the storm
and a shelter from the heat.
For the oppressive acts of ruthless people
are like a storm beating against a wall,
5 or like the relentless heat of the desert.
But you silence the roar of foreign nations.
As the shade of a cloud cools relentless heat,
so the boastful songs of ruthless people are stilled.
Today I read this passage from Isaiah 25. I really thought that chapter was especially applicable to be used in corporate worship. The truth is that we'll always know someone (if not ourselves) that are in the midst of a storm.
This week I've been in Indianapolis to attend the North American Christian Convention as well as spend some time with my family and friends. Today I had lunch with a really good friend that recently experienced a great tragedy. Six months later he's still in the midst of a storm to some extent. I hope and pray that the Lord will continue to shelter him from the full brunt of that storm.
a tower of refuge to the needy in distress.
You are a refuge from the storm
and a shelter from the heat.
For the oppressive acts of ruthless people
are like a storm beating against a wall,
5 or like the relentless heat of the desert.
But you silence the roar of foreign nations.
As the shade of a cloud cools relentless heat,
so the boastful songs of ruthless people are stilled.
Today I read this passage from Isaiah 25. I really thought that chapter was especially applicable to be used in corporate worship. The truth is that we'll always know someone (if not ourselves) that are in the midst of a storm.
This week I've been in Indianapolis to attend the North American Christian Convention as well as spend some time with my family and friends. Today I had lunch with a really good friend that recently experienced a great tragedy. Six months later he's still in the midst of a storm to some extent. I hope and pray that the Lord will continue to shelter him from the full brunt of that storm.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Isaiah 1-13
Today begins Isaiah. Lots of discussion exists on multi-sensory worship. I think Isaiah 6 is a great illustration of "experiential worship."
It was in the year King Uzziah dieds that I saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple.2 Attending him were mighty seraphim, each having six wings. With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew.3 They were calling out to each other,
"Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven's Armies!
The whole earth is filled with his glory!"
4 Their voices shook the Temple to its foundations, and the entire building was filled with smoke.
It was in the year King Uzziah dieds that I saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple.2 Attending him were mighty seraphim, each having six wings. With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew.3 They were calling out to each other,
"Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven's Armies!
The whole earth is filled with his glory!"
4 Their voices shook the Temple to its foundations, and the entire building was filled with smoke.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Ecclesiastes 3 - Song of Solomon
I finished both Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon today. Today also begins the North American Christian Convention. One reason I like conventions is that I can go and be a spectator. I'm not in charge, I don't know what's going on, and I don't have to sing. Don't get me wrong, I really do like what I do, but sometimes it's nice just to participate.
As for today's reading, this passage in Ecclesiastes struck me between the eyes.As you enter the house of God, keep your ears open and your mouth shut. It is evil to make mindless offerings to God.2 s Don't make rash promises, and don't be hasty in bringing matters before God. After all, God is in heaven, and you are here on earth. So let your words be few.
As for today's reading, this passage in Ecclesiastes struck me between the eyes.As you enter the house of God, keep your ears open and your mouth shut. It is evil to make mindless offerings to God.2 s Don't make rash promises, and don't be hasty in bringing matters before God. After all, God is in heaven, and you are here on earth. So let your words be few.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Proverbs 20:22 - Ecclesiastes 2
Today I finished Proverbs and dove into Ecclesiastes. One of the famous statements of Ecclesiastes is "nothing is new under the sun." Ironically I was thinking that same thing tonight while we were driving in the car. A version of "Shout to the Lord" came on the radio which was obviously a remake...of a remake...of a remake. Seriously - how many times can that song be "reinvented?" I think there should be a maximum times that a worship song can be rerecorded. Three maybe four is the limit. For songs like Famous One, Mighty To Save, and in this situation Shout to the Lord I'm afraid the limit has long since be exceeded.
So for all your artists out there (that obviously read my blog) please wright a new song...and please don't make it sound like everything else. Thank You.
So for all your artists out there (that obviously read my blog) please wright a new song...and please don't make it sound like everything else. Thank You.
Proverbs 7 - 20:21
A full Sunday's day worth of work, a three-hour drive, and a celebration with my family led to me getting a little behind. I guess sometimes it is hard to maintain the discipline of reading.
Speaking of discipline I feel like that's a constant theme in the book of Proverbs. (Side note: my friend Mike equated reading the entire of book of Proverbs is like reading 1,000 fortune cookies. I concur.) Discipline seems to be something that God admires. It is almost always mentioned in connection to honoring God with discipline. When it comes to worshiping sometimes discipline is so important. There are times that I know we don't want to, but the discipline of worship drives us to honor him even when our earthly circumstances discourage us.
Speaking of discipline I feel like that's a constant theme in the book of Proverbs. (Side note: my friend Mike equated reading the entire of book of Proverbs is like reading 1,000 fortune cookies. I concur.) Discipline seems to be something that God admires. It is almost always mentioned in connection to honoring God with discipline. When it comes to worshiping sometimes discipline is so important. There are times that I know we don't want to, but the discipline of worship drives us to honor him even when our earthly circumstances discourage us.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Psalm 135 - Proverbs 6
I finished Psalms today. I'm pretty sure you really aren't supposed to read the Psalms straight through. It just seems like they weren't written with that in mind. Either way I've posted my psalm for today, another famous one. 150.
Psalm 150
1 Praise the Lord !
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heaven!
2 Praise him for his mighty works;
praise his unequaled greatness!
3 Praise him with a blast of the ram's horn;
praise him with the lyre and harp!
4 Praise him with the tambourine and dancing;
praise him with strings and flutes!
5 Praise him with a clash of cymbals;
praise him with loud clanging cymbals.
6 Let everything that breathes sing praises to the Lord !
Praise the Lord !
Psalm 150
1 Praise the Lord !
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heaven!
2 Praise him for his mighty works;
praise his unequaled greatness!
3 Praise him with a blast of the ram's horn;
praise him with the lyre and harp!
4 Praise him with the tambourine and dancing;
praise him with strings and flutes!
5 Praise him with a clash of cymbals;
praise him with loud clanging cymbals.
6 Let everything that breathes sing praises to the Lord !
Praise the Lord !
Psalm 109-134
Today's reading (or last night's actually shhhh....) included a Psalm that I was dreading. It was Psalm 119. I was dreading because it is FOREVER long. Longest chapter in the Bible I think. Ironically it is all about the Bible, and supposedly it is exactly in the middle of the Bible (as a whole)...which seeing as how today is day 45 I guess that would be true.
It wasn't quite as bad as I had anticipated. This is mostly due to the fact that I was quizzing myself as to whether or not I could still pronounce the Hebrew Alphebet. Not if I remembered it because that surely isn't the case, but just to see if I could pronounce it. I didn't do so well.
It wasn't quite as bad as I had anticipated. This is mostly due to the fact that I was quizzing myself as to whether or not I could still pronounce the Hebrew Alphebet. Not if I remembered it because that surely isn't the case, but just to see if I could pronounce it. I didn't do so well.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Psalm 89:14 - 108
Tomorrow is Day 45. I'm almost half way done! That really is a good feeling. That is a feeling contrary to how a feel tonight as I've had my third straight night of fever-induced sleep. I felt better this morning and had gone without a fever so I went to work. About 3:00 it came back. Off I went to prompt care. It was there I sat for 2 hours! I think if a doctor makes you wait for that long then it should be a free visit. After one gag-causing swab of my poor throat it was determined that whatever I have is viral. So i got 4 pills that cost $15 and hopefully things will begin to improve.
Enough talk of sickness. Today as I was reading psalms I realized just how jovial the Psalmists are. I'm not an overly expressive person (and my wife definitely isn't) which makes my daughter very unique. It seems that she has very high highs and very low lows. Perhaps it just comes with being a toddler. As I read many of these Psalms they really convey a passionate joy felt by the privilege of worshiping God.
This is a good reminder - especially this Sunday. I'll be extra concerned this week for a number of reasons - I'm playing guitar which isn't always pretty, it is Independence Day which means I will likely displease a large segment of our congregation (it's really unavoidable on this Sunday), and I haven't felt well which means I won't be as confident in singing.
What this Psalm reminds me of though is that none of that matters. I (and everyone else) should just be joyful to praise God. Oh, why can't we ever see it that way? Perhaps Satan instigates these petty objections???
Enough talk of sickness. Today as I was reading psalms I realized just how jovial the Psalmists are. I'm not an overly expressive person (and my wife definitely isn't) which makes my daughter very unique. It seems that she has very high highs and very low lows. Perhaps it just comes with being a toddler. As I read many of these Psalms they really convey a passionate joy felt by the privilege of worshiping God.
This is a good reminder - especially this Sunday. I'll be extra concerned this week for a number of reasons - I'm playing guitar which isn't always pretty, it is Independence Day which means I will likely displease a large segment of our congregation (it's really unavoidable on this Sunday), and I haven't felt well which means I won't be as confident in singing.
What this Psalm reminds me of though is that none of that matters. I (and everyone else) should just be joyful to praise God. Oh, why can't we ever see it that way? Perhaps Satan instigates these petty objections???
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