"Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is." Romans 12:2 (NLT)
To the wonderful group of women who gathered Friday morning for our in-person discussion: Thank you for a great morning! And keep the comments on the blog coming! They are fantastic; I love reading them throughout the week. Posting as you read is like talking about a movie with a friend right after you've seen it. Sometimes, as I'm reading I want to turn to someone and say, "holy cow! that was great!" or "I have no idea what the author means by that." or "Ouch, that truth hurt." or "WOW! What did you think about that?" I hope you come to see the comment section of the blog as a week long conversation, a place to react, question, and make requests. It 's also a dynamic tool for those of us who cannot attend on Friday mornings or need to miss a session or two. I love you all and am so grateful that you have chosen to share this journey with our small group.
Last week's session taught us that "resistance builds strength". We know this about our physical life (working out, lifting weights), but it's also true in our spiritual formation. Mike talked about the 'unrealistic expectations' we have for our lives; his example of the person who chooses "patience" as their one word and then assumes God will remove all the slow people from their path, is both pointed and funny. The point being that, when 'patience' is our one word, we should expect that our patience will be tested, because resistance (resisting the urge to grumble about the slow person in our check-out line) builds strength. We should not "measure our progress by the absence of struggle", but remember that "character is developed by how well we deal with the struggles we face, not by how well we avoid them" (Ashcraft, MOW video).
Just as Mike concludes the video session by telling us to embrace the struggle, we move into chapter 9, where we read, "If Satan can control our thoughts, he can control our behaviors." (MOW, p 120). Talk about a struggle!
I don't know about you, but my mind is where I fight my toughest battles. 'Why is this?', I often wonder. Is it because I'm a woman, because my mom was a perfectionist and passed that mindset on to me, because the media & the world tell me I'm not good enough, because I have a history (family & personal) of depression? Why am I my own worse enemy? Does everyone think like this? Will I pass this negativity on to my children and how can I stop it?! I need only to search Scripture to find my answers (one of them opens this post). Chapter 9 is filled with Scripture that tell us how God wants us to think. And what happens when we "fix our eyes on Jesus" and the Scriptures and God's truths.
I love chapter 9! I could spend hours talking about it, but I won't :) Let me urge you to spend some time with it. Besides reminding us of God's truths and pointing out Scripture to help us with our thoughts, Mike gives us some helpful ways to make the changes we want to make.
I am looking forward to reading your reactions to chapters 9, 10, 11, & 12 (our reading for this week). Although this will bring us to the end of the book, remember that My One Word is a year long project.
Keep your word in front of you daily, memorize your associated Scripture and practice your one small action. Keep your journal and your book handy, as you may want to refer back to them throughout the year.
"Change is possible. Focus is required. Dependence on God is absolutely necessary." (Mike Ashcraft, MOW)
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly (honey)
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Week 3 of "My One Word"
"These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts... Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads." Deuteronomy 6:6,8
Have you ever "lost" your car in the parking lot? I have a terrible memory for things like this! I can be in a store for only half an hour and not be too sure where I parked. In an attempt to make life less stressful, I try to park in the same area at the mall, park under light fixtures, and take note of where the car is in relation to the store. Even with all this, I can still misremember where I left my car! If the kids are with me, I usually ask one of them to remember where we parked!
With an lost car incident only an hour old, I sat down to read chapter 5 the other day. Should I be surprised that the chapter was all about how forgetful we can be!? That's why Mike urges us to 'Keep It In Front Of You', "it" being our one word. Like my attempt to park in a location I will remember, in order to remember our one word, it should be placed where we can see, hear, feel, or touch it every day. How will you keep your word in front of you? Share in the comment section ways you plan to keep your word front and center in your life over the course of the year.
If you haven't yet chosen your word, keep with the process. List, research, pray, look for Scripture that supports your word. Once you have your word, commit to one small action that you will take in regards to moving you towards that person you want to become, in Christ, through your word. For example, my word is honey and my action is be nice! .
Most importantly, keep reading! Mike's stories are funny and relate-able, inspiring and comforting. This week we are reading chapters 5, 6, 7, and 8. They are short, generally less than 10 pages, so I know you can do it!
I look forward to reading your reaction to any of the chapters we're reading this week. And don't forget to tell us how you will keep your word in front of you! I have been eating a spoonful of honey to remind me that "Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly (honey)
Have you ever "lost" your car in the parking lot? I have a terrible memory for things like this! I can be in a store for only half an hour and not be too sure where I parked. In an attempt to make life less stressful, I try to park in the same area at the mall, park under light fixtures, and take note of where the car is in relation to the store. Even with all this, I can still misremember where I left my car! If the kids are with me, I usually ask one of them to remember where we parked!
With an lost car incident only an hour old, I sat down to read chapter 5 the other day. Should I be surprised that the chapter was all about how forgetful we can be!? That's why Mike urges us to 'Keep It In Front Of You', "it" being our one word. Like my attempt to park in a location I will remember, in order to remember our one word, it should be placed where we can see, hear, feel, or touch it every day. How will you keep your word in front of you? Share in the comment section ways you plan to keep your word front and center in your life over the course of the year.
If you haven't yet chosen your word, keep with the process. List, research, pray, look for Scripture that supports your word. Once you have your word, commit to one small action that you will take in regards to moving you towards that person you want to become, in Christ, through your word. For example, my word is honey and my action is be nice! .
Most importantly, keep reading! Mike's stories are funny and relate-able, inspiring and comforting. This week we are reading chapters 5, 6, 7, and 8. They are short, generally less than 10 pages, so I know you can do it!
I look forward to reading your reaction to any of the chapters we're reading this week. And don't forget to tell us how you will keep your word in front of you! I have been eating a spoonful of honey to remind me that "Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly (honey)
Friday, April 12, 2013
Week 2 - My One Word follow-up
"So don't get tired of doing what is good. Don't get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time." Galatians 6:9
Change is a process. Process takes time. Don't get discouraged. Don't give up! We will reap a harvest of blessing! God tells us this through Paul's words to the church in Galatia. They needed the encouragement and so do we.
Have you chosen your one word? Remember, it is a process. Follow the suggested process in chapter 3 of My One Word. For more encouragement and a more simplified version of the process (and if you don't yet have a book), visit www.myoneword.org, under the tab "Pick Your Word"and follow the instructions. Remember, this is not about change born of regret. This is about "moving forward with vision" (MOW, pg. 45), towards the kind of person you want to be.
This morning in small group we shared our One Word and the one small action we are making this week, in regard to our one word. Here they are:
Love -relinquish (control) through prayer
Honey - be nice!
Connect - stay (with Bible study/church/community to make deep connections)
Listen - stop more
Peace - (she's still thinking about this as of this morning)
And yes, there were some of us who did not yet have a word. That's ok! I hope they were inspired and encouraged by our discussion. I look forward to learning about your One Word, why you chose it, what it means to you, and what small action you will take this week. And don't forget to find a verse that connects to your word, one that you can memorize so that it becomes a part of you this year.
For even more inspiration, there are Words & their reasons sprinkled throughout each chapter (in red ink) and there are lots of them on the MyOneWord website, too. Go there, you can't help but be encouraged!
This week keep your word in front of you! And follow through with the one small action you committed to making.
Read chapters 5-8, too :)
"Change is possible. Focus is required. Dependence on God is absolutely fundamental" (M.Ashcraft, MOW)
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly (honey)
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Change is a process. Process takes time. Don't get discouraged. Don't give up! We will reap a harvest of blessing! God tells us this through Paul's words to the church in Galatia. They needed the encouragement and so do we.
Have you chosen your one word? Remember, it is a process. Follow the suggested process in chapter 3 of My One Word. For more encouragement and a more simplified version of the process (and if you don't yet have a book), visit www.myoneword.org, under the tab "Pick Your Word"and follow the instructions. Remember, this is not about change born of regret. This is about "moving forward with vision" (MOW, pg. 45), towards the kind of person you want to be.
This morning in small group we shared our One Word and the one small action we are making this week, in regard to our one word. Here they are:
Love -relinquish (control) through prayer
Honey - be nice!
Connect - stay (with Bible study/church/community to make deep connections)
Listen - stop more
Peace - (she's still thinking about this as of this morning)
And yes, there were some of us who did not yet have a word. That's ok! I hope they were inspired and encouraged by our discussion. I look forward to learning about your One Word, why you chose it, what it means to you, and what small action you will take this week. And don't forget to find a verse that connects to your word, one that you can memorize so that it becomes a part of you this year.
For even more inspiration, there are Words & their reasons sprinkled throughout each chapter (in red ink) and there are lots of them on the MyOneWord website, too. Go there, you can't help but be encouraged!
This week keep your word in front of you! And follow through with the one small action you committed to making.
Read chapters 5-8, too :)
"Change is possible. Focus is required. Dependence on God is absolutely fundamental" (M.Ashcraft, MOW)
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly (honey)
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Week 2 mid-week check-in
"When first things are put first, second things are not suppressed but increased." C.S. Lewis
Welcome to the mid-week check-in! With the faster pace of this study (a whole book in 4 weeks), I thought it might be a good idea to check-in with everyone to see how it's going.
These first 4 chapters are fantastic! Easy reading, with a lot of what I need: repetition of important thoughts & ideas. How about you? What do you think so far? With our in-person discussions being mostly about the video, I'd love to hear (read) what you think about the book, via the blog! It's a great way to stay connected to each other throughout the week. And a true lifeline for those who are doing it partially or completely on-line.
The personal anecdotes and stories woven throughout these chapters often make me chuckle, because I can relate! Except the basketball story in chapter 2, that one made me cringe, then painted a picture that helped me to better understand what My One Word can do.
As I read, I underlined, starred, and took some notes. One of my favorite quotes from the video opens this post. I have more and, if you'll indulge me, I'll get around to telling you what I did with them. But first, let me get to chapter 3! The one I approached with trepidation because I really wasn't sure I'd be ready to choose a word by the 3rd chapter. 'Shouldn't we do that towards the end of the book, not the beginning?', I thought.
When I sat down to read, those 3 words stared at me "PICK YOUR WORD" like a command that I didn't think I was able to or willing to obey. I thought this chapter would be a lot of work: "here it comes, making lists, looking up meanings, researching, looking for words in Scripture... Yikes!" I don't have time for that! But, putting first things first, I read on. Turns out there is a lot of good stuff in those 8 pages! I found myself underlining & note taking eagerly. Then came "Reflect". Uh-oh! Now the work begins! Not so, it was just the same questions that Mike has asked since the first video, in a concise, do-able list! I still wasn't ready, though.
Instead, I was drawn to write out my favorite quotes and Bible verses from the chapters on 3x5 cards. I'm not sure why I did this; procrastination, avoidance, an easier task? But, it's what I did and perhaps needed to do. As Mike says, there is no right or wrong way to make your list. It is highly personal and the process is, too! So, whatever you need to do to get to your list, do it! A few hours after I wrote my 3x5 cards, my list started to form. I was in the car (luckily a passenger) and grabbed my prayer journal (the only paper I had) and started my list. I've been adding words for the last 24 hours and feel it's still not complete, but that's okay.
Have you started your list? What do you need to do before you begin? Here are my 3x5 cards: I read them over & over and even put one at my kid's breakfast plate as a morning encouragement! It's kind of small, so you may want to view it in Full Screen mode.
If you cannot view the video in your e-mail, please go to the blog, www.reonlineblog.blogspot.com to view!
Two final thoughts on the reading:
1) If the One Word stories in red print that are found throughout the chapters seem distracting, read them after you've finished the chapter. They are random sprinklings of encouragement and not necessary for understanding the chapter.
2) When I take notes that have pronouns, I change them to personal pronouns to make it more meaningful and direct. Notice my last card... I changed "we" to "I".
Have a wonderful week! I look forward to hearing from you here on the blog and meeting with you on Friday, if you are available!
"Change is possible. Focus is required. Dependence on God is absolutely fundamental." Mike Ashcraft, M.O.W
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Welcome to the mid-week check-in! With the faster pace of this study (a whole book in 4 weeks), I thought it might be a good idea to check-in with everyone to see how it's going.
These first 4 chapters are fantastic! Easy reading, with a lot of what I need: repetition of important thoughts & ideas. How about you? What do you think so far? With our in-person discussions being mostly about the video, I'd love to hear (read) what you think about the book, via the blog! It's a great way to stay connected to each other throughout the week. And a true lifeline for those who are doing it partially or completely on-line.
The personal anecdotes and stories woven throughout these chapters often make me chuckle, because I can relate! Except the basketball story in chapter 2, that one made me cringe, then painted a picture that helped me to better understand what My One Word can do.
As I read, I underlined, starred, and took some notes. One of my favorite quotes from the video opens this post. I have more and, if you'll indulge me, I'll get around to telling you what I did with them. But first, let me get to chapter 3! The one I approached with trepidation because I really wasn't sure I'd be ready to choose a word by the 3rd chapter. 'Shouldn't we do that towards the end of the book, not the beginning?', I thought.
When I sat down to read, those 3 words stared at me "PICK YOUR WORD" like a command that I didn't think I was able to or willing to obey. I thought this chapter would be a lot of work: "here it comes, making lists, looking up meanings, researching, looking for words in Scripture... Yikes!" I don't have time for that! But, putting first things first, I read on. Turns out there is a lot of good stuff in those 8 pages! I found myself underlining & note taking eagerly. Then came "Reflect". Uh-oh! Now the work begins! Not so, it was just the same questions that Mike has asked since the first video, in a concise, do-able list! I still wasn't ready, though.
Instead, I was drawn to write out my favorite quotes and Bible verses from the chapters on 3x5 cards. I'm not sure why I did this; procrastination, avoidance, an easier task? But, it's what I did and perhaps needed to do. As Mike says, there is no right or wrong way to make your list. It is highly personal and the process is, too! So, whatever you need to do to get to your list, do it! A few hours after I wrote my 3x5 cards, my list started to form. I was in the car (luckily a passenger) and grabbed my prayer journal (the only paper I had) and started my list. I've been adding words for the last 24 hours and feel it's still not complete, but that's okay.
Have you started your list? What do you need to do before you begin? Here are my 3x5 cards: I read them over & over and even put one at my kid's breakfast plate as a morning encouragement! It's kind of small, so you may want to view it in Full Screen mode.
If you cannot view the video in your e-mail, please go to the blog, www.reonlineblog.blogspot.com to view!
Two final thoughts on the reading:
1) If the One Word stories in red print that are found throughout the chapters seem distracting, read them after you've finished the chapter. They are random sprinklings of encouragement and not necessary for understanding the chapter.
2) When I take notes that have pronouns, I change them to personal pronouns to make it more meaningful and direct. Notice my last card... I changed "we" to "I".
Have a wonderful week! I look forward to hearing from you here on the blog and meeting with you on Friday, if you are available!
"Change is possible. Focus is required. Dependence on God is absolutely fundamental." Mike Ashcraft, M.O.W
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, April 8, 2013
Week 2 of "My One Word"
"For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him." Philippians 2:13
Welcome to Week 2 of My One Word!
On Friday we watched the first video in which Mike Ashcraft gave us an overview of how & why he developed My One Word and what is in store for us over the course of the next few weeks. It was a little intimidating, but also very exciting!
If you were not able to join us on the 5th, you can still see the video! Go to www.myoneword.org. The first video segment can be found on the webpage. After you watch the video, come back here (the blog) and post your reaction in the Comment section. We shared various reactions, from "really, you want us to read how many chapters?" and "I will be accountable to this word for a whole year!? That's a long time." to "I'm excited! I wish our whole church could do this!". I can't wait to see what you think.
As a reminder, this week we are reading Chapters 1-4. And, if you need to re-read chapter 3, you are in good company :) There is some work to do this week, but I pormise it's not much and the dividends will be worth it! The chapters are short and the reflection questions are thoughtful.
So, grab your book (or e-reader), your Bible, journal, and a pen and get started.
Remember, "CHANGE is possible. FOCUS is required. And dependence on God is absolutely foundational." Mike Ashcraft, My One Word
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
Welcome to Week 2 of My One Word!
On Friday we watched the first video in which Mike Ashcraft gave us an overview of how & why he developed My One Word and what is in store for us over the course of the next few weeks. It was a little intimidating, but also very exciting!
If you were not able to join us on the 5th, you can still see the video! Go to www.myoneword.org. The first video segment can be found on the webpage. After you watch the video, come back here (the blog) and post your reaction in the Comment section. We shared various reactions, from "really, you want us to read how many chapters?" and "I will be accountable to this word for a whole year!? That's a long time." to "I'm excited! I wish our whole church could do this!". I can't wait to see what you think.
As a reminder, this week we are reading Chapters 1-4. And, if you need to re-read chapter 3, you are in good company :) There is some work to do this week, but I pormise it's not much and the dividends will be worth it! The chapters are short and the reflection questions are thoughtful.
So, grab your book (or e-reader), your Bible, journal, and a pen and get started.
Remember, "CHANGE is possible. FOCUS is required. And dependence on God is absolutely foundational." Mike Ashcraft, My One Word
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
Monday, April 1, 2013
Let's Begin "My One Word" !
"Be silent, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10 (NLV)
When my son was in 2nd grade, his first year at the local public school, he had difficulty adjusting. His complaint to me was that his classroom was loud. Having been in his room a few times, I knew that generally the class was well behaved and not overly boisterous. What I realized when I went in for a conference was all the visual stimulation, the clutter and busy-ness of the classroom and the fast paced schedule. It all made it hard for him to quiet his mind enough to concentrate on his lesson.
That was an "ah-ha" moment for me. It clarified something I had been trying to understand for years: The world in which we live is loud! And I don't just mean it's filled with noise (which is it!). It's colors are loud, it's demands on our time & energy are loud, we are visually assaulted with images, our schedules scream "hurry up", we talk about the ticking of clocks of self-imposed, culture-imposed, and even biological deadlines (presumably getting louder as time moves on). All this NOISE makes it difficult, and sometimes impossible, to focus on the important things in life. We can easily get distracted, off track, and confused.
We all need to find a way to slow down. The medical world is finally discovering what God has been telling us for countless ages: REST. Rest is essential. Quiet is necessary. Let go and let God! "Be silent, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
We need to limit the noise of living in order to focus on the important things of life. The book My One Word will help us do just that.
This Friday, April 5th, we begin with the video and book series, My One Word. If you have not yet purchased your book, it's okay. Most orders from Amazon come within a few days :) And you don't have to do any reading before our first session, anyway. Order your book and relax.
If you have your book and want to start reading, here's what I suggest as an order of importance:
1) pg 181-184 Video Discussion Guide (scan the questions, we will discuss them after the video)
2) pg 13-16 Introduction
3) Chapter 1
4) Reflection questions at the end of Chapter 1
After this week, the reading will be important for you. It is how you will narrow down your One Word, which we will all eventually share with one another. Sharing our word is essential in being held accountable to it.
I strongly recommend a journal. While there is often some blank space after the reflection questions at the end of each chapter, it's not very much. As I was journal-ing today, I found that by writing out what I at first thought was a non-answer, I eventually came around to something more significant. It was through the process of slowing down to write that allowed me to see what was really going on. There may be things within the chapter you'd like to make note of, too. And, you may want to note things that stand out to you in the videos as well, since this is what most of our discussions will be based upon.*
Your journal can be anything, by the way. It can be an old notebook, a binder with lined paper, or just some paper stapled together. Whatever you have that you can keep with your book and bring to your computer and/or our sessions.
If you've never 'journaled' before, don't let that intimidate you. It's just the latest word for writing because the word 'writing' often intimidates people! It's just writing down what comes to mind, making note of favorite ideas, and jotting down things that bring up more questions for you. It doesn't require much time, either. There is no quota of pages to be filled or number of words. Put your thoughts on paper - there is no judgement or critique.
*If you are following on-line and not attending Friday mornings, start or join a discussion on the reflection questions or group questions on our blog (note: if you receive updates via e-mail, you must go to the blog to enter a Comment). The group questions from the video don't rely on having seen the video; it is the discussion between us that is vital. Visit our blog, www.reonlineblog.blogspot.com, and the web page and blog at www.MyOneWord.org for even more support and connections!
I am so excited to get started! Thank you for joining me on this journey of life change!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
When my son was in 2nd grade, his first year at the local public school, he had difficulty adjusting. His complaint to me was that his classroom was loud. Having been in his room a few times, I knew that generally the class was well behaved and not overly boisterous. What I realized when I went in for a conference was all the visual stimulation, the clutter and busy-ness of the classroom and the fast paced schedule. It all made it hard for him to quiet his mind enough to concentrate on his lesson.
That was an "ah-ha" moment for me. It clarified something I had been trying to understand for years: The world in which we live is loud! And I don't just mean it's filled with noise (which is it!). It's colors are loud, it's demands on our time & energy are loud, we are visually assaulted with images, our schedules scream "hurry up", we talk about the ticking of clocks of self-imposed, culture-imposed, and even biological deadlines (presumably getting louder as time moves on). All this NOISE makes it difficult, and sometimes impossible, to focus on the important things in life. We can easily get distracted, off track, and confused.
We all need to find a way to slow down. The medical world is finally discovering what God has been telling us for countless ages: REST. Rest is essential. Quiet is necessary. Let go and let God! "Be silent, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
We need to limit the noise of living in order to focus on the important things of life. The book My One Word will help us do just that.
This Friday, April 5th, we begin with the video and book series, My One Word. If you have not yet purchased your book, it's okay. Most orders from Amazon come within a few days :) And you don't have to do any reading before our first session, anyway. Order your book and relax.
If you have your book and want to start reading, here's what I suggest as an order of importance:
1) pg 181-184 Video Discussion Guide (scan the questions, we will discuss them after the video)
2) pg 13-16 Introduction
3) Chapter 1
4) Reflection questions at the end of Chapter 1
After this week, the reading will be important for you. It is how you will narrow down your One Word, which we will all eventually share with one another. Sharing our word is essential in being held accountable to it.
I strongly recommend a journal. While there is often some blank space after the reflection questions at the end of each chapter, it's not very much. As I was journal-ing today, I found that by writing out what I at first thought was a non-answer, I eventually came around to something more significant. It was through the process of slowing down to write that allowed me to see what was really going on. There may be things within the chapter you'd like to make note of, too. And, you may want to note things that stand out to you in the videos as well, since this is what most of our discussions will be based upon.*
Your journal can be anything, by the way. It can be an old notebook, a binder with lined paper, or just some paper stapled together. Whatever you have that you can keep with your book and bring to your computer and/or our sessions.
If you've never 'journaled' before, don't let that intimidate you. It's just the latest word for writing because the word 'writing' often intimidates people! It's just writing down what comes to mind, making note of favorite ideas, and jotting down things that bring up more questions for you. It doesn't require much time, either. There is no quota of pages to be filled or number of words. Put your thoughts on paper - there is no judgement or critique.
*If you are following on-line and not attending Friday mornings, start or join a discussion on the reflection questions or group questions on our blog (note: if you receive updates via e-mail, you must go to the blog to enter a Comment). The group questions from the video don't rely on having seen the video; it is the discussion between us that is vital. Visit our blog, www.reonlineblog.blogspot.com, and the web page and blog at www.MyOneWord.org for even more support and connections!
I am so excited to get started! Thank you for joining me on this journey of life change!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, March 25, 2013
Holy Week
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it." John 3: 16-17
Many Christians and non-Christians have heard the first part of the Scripture quoted above. It's hard to watch a professional sporting event and not see John 3:16 somewhere in the crowd or even on the field. I applaud this evangelism, getting the word out there, though I wonder how many non-Christians really look up the passage , ask a Christian friend, or know what John 3:16 means. It's not for us to worry about, though. God draws people to him; it is the purpose of His people to put the message out to everyone, to point the way to Him, and to remind the world about all He has done and is doing. The next time you have the opportunity to share your faith, don't worry about how you or your message will be received. Just put it out there, God will work in the hearts of those who seek Him.
I included the oft-forgotten verse 17. It seems to me that when I talk to people who don't go to church, they have lots of reasons why, but the most frequent reason is that they feel like they are being judged, they are not good enough, that somehow one has to be good to go to church. My response is usually a polite chuckle. Then I tell them that's why I go to church, because I am not good enough, I'm a sinner in need of God's forgiveness! I sin, therefore I go. It is verse 17 that assures me that God wants to forgive us; everyone, regardless of how unworthy we think we are. If we seek forgiveness, God will grant it. So, I wonder... when people are reminded of John 3:16 do they continue to read, do they get the full message of Salvation? The next time you see John 3:16 written on poster board or on the eye-black of an athlete or fan, remember verse 17, too "God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it." And if you are lucky enough to be asked about John 3:16, be sure to continue with the complete message of salvation.
Holy Week is a reminder of the reality of John 3:16-17. The events are not metaphor, simile, folklore, allegory, or parable. What happened during Holy Week is history - facts that have been written down, remembered, and celebrated for over two thousand years. It is a yearly reminder of the events that happened in Jerusalem to Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus the Christ, The Son of Man, the only Begotten Son of God.
On Palm Sunday we remember how the crowds cheered Jesus arrival.
On Maundy Thursday we remember the Passover meal that Jesus ate with his disciples. Many things happened in that upper room, including Jesus washing the feet of his disciples, the prediction of Judas Iscariot's betrayal & Peter's denials, and the words of Jesus that are repeated by Christians today when we take communion.
Good Friday is a solemn remembrance of Jesus crucifixion and death.
Saturday is often a day of Vigil - being the Jewish Sabbath, Jesus' friends could not attend his body, so they had to wait until Sunday. As Christians remember this waiting period they pray, as I'm sure Jesus' followers & friends did.
When they went to the tomb early Sunday morning they found it empty! We celebrate Easter Sunday with the call and answer, "He is Risen!" "He is Risen Indeed!"
With all the things that the world and life throws at us daily, it is easy to forget:
to pray
to rely on God
to trust in God's promises
to remember that God loved us so much, he gave his only Son to die as a sacrifice for our sins.
As we go through Holy Week and have lots of things to do and prepare, let's not forget to remember why we celebrate.
How will you remember and celebrate Holy Week? Please share with us on the blog comments the ways you intend to do this, some of your favorite ways to celebrate the season, or a favorite memory of a past Lent and Easter season.
May the Peace of the Lord be with you!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
Many Christians and non-Christians have heard the first part of the Scripture quoted above. It's hard to watch a professional sporting event and not see John 3:16 somewhere in the crowd or even on the field. I applaud this evangelism, getting the word out there, though I wonder how many non-Christians really look up the passage , ask a Christian friend, or know what John 3:16 means. It's not for us to worry about, though. God draws people to him; it is the purpose of His people to put the message out to everyone, to point the way to Him, and to remind the world about all He has done and is doing. The next time you have the opportunity to share your faith, don't worry about how you or your message will be received. Just put it out there, God will work in the hearts of those who seek Him.
I included the oft-forgotten verse 17. It seems to me that when I talk to people who don't go to church, they have lots of reasons why, but the most frequent reason is that they feel like they are being judged, they are not good enough, that somehow one has to be good to go to church. My response is usually a polite chuckle. Then I tell them that's why I go to church, because I am not good enough, I'm a sinner in need of God's forgiveness! I sin, therefore I go. It is verse 17 that assures me that God wants to forgive us; everyone, regardless of how unworthy we think we are. If we seek forgiveness, God will grant it. So, I wonder... when people are reminded of John 3:16 do they continue to read, do they get the full message of Salvation? The next time you see John 3:16 written on poster board or on the eye-black of an athlete or fan, remember verse 17, too "God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it." And if you are lucky enough to be asked about John 3:16, be sure to continue with the complete message of salvation.
Holy Week is a reminder of the reality of John 3:16-17. The events are not metaphor, simile, folklore, allegory, or parable. What happened during Holy Week is history - facts that have been written down, remembered, and celebrated for over two thousand years. It is a yearly reminder of the events that happened in Jerusalem to Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus the Christ, The Son of Man, the only Begotten Son of God.
On Palm Sunday we remember how the crowds cheered Jesus arrival.
On Maundy Thursday we remember the Passover meal that Jesus ate with his disciples. Many things happened in that upper room, including Jesus washing the feet of his disciples, the prediction of Judas Iscariot's betrayal & Peter's denials, and the words of Jesus that are repeated by Christians today when we take communion.
Good Friday is a solemn remembrance of Jesus crucifixion and death.
Saturday is often a day of Vigil - being the Jewish Sabbath, Jesus' friends could not attend his body, so they had to wait until Sunday. As Christians remember this waiting period they pray, as I'm sure Jesus' followers & friends did.
When they went to the tomb early Sunday morning they found it empty! We celebrate Easter Sunday with the call and answer, "He is Risen!" "He is Risen Indeed!"
With all the things that the world and life throws at us daily, it is easy to forget:
to pray
to rely on God
to trust in God's promises
to remember that God loved us so much, he gave his only Son to die as a sacrifice for our sins.
As we go through Holy Week and have lots of things to do and prepare, let's not forget to remember why we celebrate.
How will you remember and celebrate Holy Week? Please share with us on the blog comments the ways you intend to do this, some of your favorite ways to celebrate the season, or a favorite memory of a past Lent and Easter season.
May the Peace of the Lord be with you!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
Monday, March 18, 2013
Week 11 - INS Chapter 12 - Become a Recording Artist
"The woman left her water jar beside the well and went back to the village and told everyone, "Come and meet a man who told me everything I ever did! Can this be the Messiah?" So the people came streaming from the village to see him." John 4:28-30
Did you ever slow down or stop reading a good book because you didn't want it to end? I have! I don't want to have to leave the world the author created or say good bye to characters I have come to like. It seems silly, really, but I can get so into a story that I just don't want to finish it and at the same time, I tell all my friends & family about the great book I'm reading.
As I find myself at the end of It's No Secret, I am a little sad that this is the last chapter in the book. I love Rachel's style of writing, her personal stories draw me in & help me connect. But her message is always pointing me to a greater Book! One that seems to never end - one that I never have to finish reading. A Book whose characters come alive anew every time I read their stories. And the world the author created: I live in it - all the time. That world won't go away until the Author returns.
Chapter 12 is a sort of benediction. While revealing one last 'secret', Rachel also guides us to the idea that we are not to keep these secrets for ourselves. We are blessed with the knowledge of these divine truths and should share them with others. Like a good book that we wouldn't hesitate to tell our friends & family about,(and maybe even lend them our copy or buy them a copy), we are challenged to do the same with our faith.
"But how?", you ask. First we start with remembering all that God does for us. Rachel helps us to see how important this is to God. I think God knew that we would forget to remember, so He made sure to tell us to over and over and over again! Jesus even directs his disciples to "Do this in remembrance of me" (Luke 22:19). We, as individuals and as the human race, have short memories. It is helpful to have reminders! The Bible serves as a reminder of what God has done for many, long ago. You can devise your own memory keeper, so that you can share your faith with others. The stories of the Bible are Fantastic! But people of the 21st century want to also hear about how God works in the here and now. Personal stories make real connections.
Savor this last chapter of It's No Secret ! I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have and perhaps even pass a copy on to someone who would love to know these divine truths!
If you'd like a schedule, here's what I suggest:
Day 1: Read chapter 12. Think about someone (or two or three someones) you would like to share this message of Truth with.
Day 2: Complete questions # 1, 2, 3. Come to the blog and share your reaction to this chapter.
Day 3: Complete questions #4 & 5. Don't let the long list intimidate you! It's only 15 verses. If you're familiar with your Bible, it will be quick. If not, this will help :)
Day 4: Accept the challenge of becoming a Yahweh Sister recording artist! Come to the blog and share with us how you will do this!
I can't wait to read what you have to share!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
Don't forget to join us for our new study, "My One Word" starting on April 5th and continuing for only 4 weeks! For details on the book & study, see last week's post or follow the Redeemer Lutheran Church link on the sidebar to Small Groups. I am so excited!!! I am looking forward to you joining us, here on-line and/or in person on Friday mornings.
Did you ever slow down or stop reading a good book because you didn't want it to end? I have! I don't want to have to leave the world the author created or say good bye to characters I have come to like. It seems silly, really, but I can get so into a story that I just don't want to finish it and at the same time, I tell all my friends & family about the great book I'm reading.
As I find myself at the end of It's No Secret, I am a little sad that this is the last chapter in the book. I love Rachel's style of writing, her personal stories draw me in & help me connect. But her message is always pointing me to a greater Book! One that seems to never end - one that I never have to finish reading. A Book whose characters come alive anew every time I read their stories. And the world the author created: I live in it - all the time. That world won't go away until the Author returns.
Chapter 12 is a sort of benediction. While revealing one last 'secret', Rachel also guides us to the idea that we are not to keep these secrets for ourselves. We are blessed with the knowledge of these divine truths and should share them with others. Like a good book that we wouldn't hesitate to tell our friends & family about,(and maybe even lend them our copy or buy them a copy), we are challenged to do the same with our faith.
"But how?", you ask. First we start with remembering all that God does for us. Rachel helps us to see how important this is to God. I think God knew that we would forget to remember, so He made sure to tell us to over and over and over again! Jesus even directs his disciples to "Do this in remembrance of me" (Luke 22:19). We, as individuals and as the human race, have short memories. It is helpful to have reminders! The Bible serves as a reminder of what God has done for many, long ago. You can devise your own memory keeper, so that you can share your faith with others. The stories of the Bible are Fantastic! But people of the 21st century want to also hear about how God works in the here and now. Personal stories make real connections.
Savor this last chapter of It's No Secret ! I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have and perhaps even pass a copy on to someone who would love to know these divine truths!
If you'd like a schedule, here's what I suggest:
Day 1: Read chapter 12. Think about someone (or two or three someones) you would like to share this message of Truth with.
Day 2: Complete questions # 1, 2, 3. Come to the blog and share your reaction to this chapter.
Day 3: Complete questions #4 & 5. Don't let the long list intimidate you! It's only 15 verses. If you're familiar with your Bible, it will be quick. If not, this will help :)
Day 4: Accept the challenge of becoming a Yahweh Sister recording artist! Come to the blog and share with us how you will do this!
I can't wait to read what you have to share!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
Don't forget to join us for our new study, "My One Word" starting on April 5th and continuing for only 4 weeks! For details on the book & study, see last week's post or follow the Redeemer Lutheran Church link on the sidebar to Small Groups. I am so excited!!! I am looking forward to you joining us, here on-line and/or in person on Friday mornings.
Monday, March 11, 2013
Week 10 - Chapter 11 - Diversify Your Portfolio
"Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." Jeremiah 33:3 (NIV)
I cannot believe how quickly the weeks have flown by! We have only two more chapters until the end of this study! I have learned so much; my faith and understanding grow deeper every time I read this book, the Scriptures, and discuss them with you. Thank you for being an amazing part of this fantastic journey!
Looking ahead, I hope you will join us for the next study, beginning on April 5th. We will read "My One Word" by Mike Ashcraft & Rahcel Olsen. If you are able to join us in person on Friday mornings, you will also see the video series that accompanies the book. This is completely optional and if you cannot attend in person, you will still benefit greatly from the book alone. Also, join us here on this blog and check out the webpage, blog, Facebook page, and Twitter for My One Word, www.myoneword.org . Lots of support & resources for everyone's schedule! Please purchase the book (and begin reading) before April 5th. Go to www.redeemeronline.net and follow the link at the bottom of the page to purchase the book through Redeemer Youth's Amazon.com portal. Thank You!
Now, back to our regularly scheduled chapter...
Wisdom - do you know a wise person? What is the difference between Wise and Smart? Can a person be wise without being smart? And vice-versa, smart but not wise? I think I'm about as smart as I'm going to get, but can I still attain wisdom? HOW?
Rachel helps us discover the answer to that question in this chapter. She highlights Scripture that talks about, explains, defines, and describes Wisdom. Scripture tells us who has wisdom, just how to get it, and the rewards for following Wisdom.
For additional reading about Wisdom, look at Proverbs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. Scan these verses this week and notice how many times the words "wise" and "wisdom" are used. Do you get the idea that wisdom is important to God and important for us?
Reading Proverbs is a great way to spend time in Scripture on a daily basis (see Question 5 at the end of the chapter. I hope you try this. I'd love to hear about it as you read through Proverbs!)
For this week:
Monday: Read chapter 11. Come to the blog and post your reaction to this chapter in the Comment section. Post your favorite quote from the book and/or your favorite verse on Wisdom.
Tuesday: Read about Daniel and answer the questions for Question #1.
Wednesday: Do questions #2, #3, #4. Enjoy these wisdom-filled, yet short, readings. These passages pack a lot of punch in their brevity.
Thursday: Review chapter 11 & chapter 10. We'll talk about both on Friday morning. Feel free to comment on both on the blog! I am always excited to hear from you!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding." Proverbs 2: 2, 6
I cannot believe how quickly the weeks have flown by! We have only two more chapters until the end of this study! I have learned so much; my faith and understanding grow deeper every time I read this book, the Scriptures, and discuss them with you. Thank you for being an amazing part of this fantastic journey!
Looking ahead, I hope you will join us for the next study, beginning on April 5th. We will read "My One Word" by Mike Ashcraft & Rahcel Olsen. If you are able to join us in person on Friday mornings, you will also see the video series that accompanies the book. This is completely optional and if you cannot attend in person, you will still benefit greatly from the book alone. Also, join us here on this blog and check out the webpage, blog, Facebook page, and Twitter for My One Word, www.myoneword.org . Lots of support & resources for everyone's schedule! Please purchase the book (and begin reading) before April 5th. Go to www.redeemeronline.net and follow the link at the bottom of the page to purchase the book through Redeemer Youth's Amazon.com portal. Thank You!
Now, back to our regularly scheduled chapter...
Wisdom - do you know a wise person? What is the difference between Wise and Smart? Can a person be wise without being smart? And vice-versa, smart but not wise? I think I'm about as smart as I'm going to get, but can I still attain wisdom? HOW?
Rachel helps us discover the answer to that question in this chapter. She highlights Scripture that talks about, explains, defines, and describes Wisdom. Scripture tells us who has wisdom, just how to get it, and the rewards for following Wisdom.
For additional reading about Wisdom, look at Proverbs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. Scan these verses this week and notice how many times the words "wise" and "wisdom" are used. Do you get the idea that wisdom is important to God and important for us?
Reading Proverbs is a great way to spend time in Scripture on a daily basis (see Question 5 at the end of the chapter. I hope you try this. I'd love to hear about it as you read through Proverbs!)
For this week:
Monday: Read chapter 11. Come to the blog and post your reaction to this chapter in the Comment section. Post your favorite quote from the book and/or your favorite verse on Wisdom.
Tuesday: Read about Daniel and answer the questions for Question #1.
Wednesday: Do questions #2, #3, #4. Enjoy these wisdom-filled, yet short, readings. These passages pack a lot of punch in their brevity.
Thursday: Review chapter 11 & chapter 10. We'll talk about both on Friday morning. Feel free to comment on both on the blog! I am always excited to hear from you!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding." Proverbs 2: 2, 6
Monday, March 4, 2013
Week 9 - Chapter 10 - Crave a Clear Conscience
"Yes, what joy for those whose record the Lord has cleared of sin, whose lives are lived in complete honesty!" Psalm 32:2
Before I get into this week's chapter, I'd like to say a few more things about chapter 9. In our live meeting on Friday, we talked about waiting and being quiet before the Lord, listening for His voice. I was inspired to blog about it and the wheels of my mind were turning when I decided to read a few e-mails before sitting down to blog. I was shocked at what I found! The e-mail I read from my Online Bible Study for another book reflected my thoughts! I decided to include a link here so that you can read it : http://melissataylor.org/2013/03/01/today-is-about-you-and-god/. Stephanie Clayton has some wise words and a challenge worth taking. I hope you will!
Now, for Chapter 10 - a.k.a. Beauty Secrets! I can totally identify with Rachel's battle with skin problems! I think we women have all had something about ourselves that we didn't like and tried to change. But then she goes deeper... you've heard the saying beauty is more than skin deep. God knows this and Jesus saw through people's 'perfect' exteriors during his time here on earth.
Rachel points us to scripture in both the Old Testament and New Testament that addresses our sinful nature and the necessity of confession to God. The idea of facing, naming, and admitting our sins can be uncomfortable (yea, just a bit!). But, as David writes in Psalm 23:5 "Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide them. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the Lord." And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone!" Perhaps this is where the saying "Forgiveness is good for the soul" comes from.
And guess what, according to the latest research, it's not only good for the soul, it's also good for the body: http://bible.org/illustration/what%E2%80%99s-good-soul.
So yes, forgiveness is a Beauty Secret, for our insides and our outsides!
I'm a bit late this week with my blog post, so if you haven't read the chapter yet, read it today and post your reaction to the chapter on the blog in the Comment section. Do the 6 questions over 2 days.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
Before I get into this week's chapter, I'd like to say a few more things about chapter 9. In our live meeting on Friday, we talked about waiting and being quiet before the Lord, listening for His voice. I was inspired to blog about it and the wheels of my mind were turning when I decided to read a few e-mails before sitting down to blog. I was shocked at what I found! The e-mail I read from my Online Bible Study for another book reflected my thoughts! I decided to include a link here so that you can read it : http://melissataylor.org/2013/03/01/today-is-about-you-and-god/. Stephanie Clayton has some wise words and a challenge worth taking. I hope you will!
Now, for Chapter 10 - a.k.a. Beauty Secrets! I can totally identify with Rachel's battle with skin problems! I think we women have all had something about ourselves that we didn't like and tried to change. But then she goes deeper... you've heard the saying beauty is more than skin deep. God knows this and Jesus saw through people's 'perfect' exteriors during his time here on earth.
Rachel points us to scripture in both the Old Testament and New Testament that addresses our sinful nature and the necessity of confession to God. The idea of facing, naming, and admitting our sins can be uncomfortable (yea, just a bit!). But, as David writes in Psalm 23:5 "Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide them. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the Lord." And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone!" Perhaps this is where the saying "Forgiveness is good for the soul" comes from.
And guess what, according to the latest research, it's not only good for the soul, it's also good for the body: http://bible.org/illustration/what%E2%80%99s-good-soul.
So yes, forgiveness is a Beauty Secret, for our insides and our outsides!
I'm a bit late this week with my blog post, so if you haven't read the chapter yet, read it today and post your reaction to the chapter on the blog in the Comment section. Do the 6 questions over 2 days.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
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