Monday, February 22, 2010

All things being equal...

"All things being equal" is a phrase that rubs me the wrong way.  Perhaps it is because God's kingdom is not fully here yet; all I know is things are not level, some people are more talented than others.  Lindsey Vonn would destroy me on a ski slope, although I might stand a chance in a video game version of skiing.

Yeah, I'm in a dark place today.  I find myself today struggling with the idea of humility juxtaposed with striving for excellence.  Maybe that's why I'm looking to the Lord, the ultimate example of being the BEST and humble all at the same time.

I look around and see some people who have different gifts and strengths.  I think they are better, that there is no way I'd approach that level.  This isn't humility.  This is fear, despair, dread talking.  The belief that God can't use me because I'm not like ____________. 

Then before these thoughts gain a foothold, I remember the gifts Paul talks about in 1 Corinthians 12:  wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophesy, discernment of spirits, tongues, and the interpretation of tongues.  All of these are needed to make up the body of Christ.   We need each other to weave together a strong vessel to carry God's message to the world.  Arrogance says I am the only one to do this role.  Humility says, I'm honored to be a part and will do my best. 

I imagine this is what happened in the Garden of Gethsemane.  Jesus, fully aware he is the Son of God, accepts God's will, and with humility says okay, I will go to the cross.  

As we walk to the cross the Lenten season, may we be like Christ and be humble in all our doings.  Accept corrections and feedback as opportunities for growth.  May we run the race with perserverence.

Saturday, February 13, 2010

Haiti Updates

Please join me in praying for the people of Haiti; the relief efforts from various sources and for God to turn this tragedy into a resurrection of full life, one without poverty, fear and corruption.

For updates check out this blog from a worker in Lutheran World Relief   LWR Blog on Haiti