It is obvious to say but hard to grasp - we only have one life to live.
The recent sad death of Amy Winehouse has highlighted the pressures that our celebrity obsessions place on those who are the focus of our idolatry. Her brilliance and potential have been destroyed by the very people who loved what she could offer.
But yesterday had news of the death of John Stott, who was 90. He was 'full of years', and has had an influence on millions, as a preacher and Bible teacher.
As I reflected on his influence on my life, and countless others, I thought of the many times I heard him preach and speak. What amazed me was we never thought, 'What an exciting preacher!', but always, Isn't the Bible an amazing book!' or 'Isn't God's love wonderful!'.
But John Stott was not just a great teacher. His life modelled what he preached. In this, he was like the great apostle, St. Paul, who wrote, 'As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died.' (Galatians 6.14)
As I think of my one life, my prayer is to follow the example of John Stott and St. Paul - to be so Jesus focused that I am not obsessed by things of this world. What is your desire for your one life?
Best wishes,
Richard
Friday, 29 July 2011
Wednesday, 27 July 2011
Airbrushed Image
Here is a startling piece of news!
Julia Roberts is getting older!
But the recent L'Oreal advert made her look much younger, as part of their campaign to sell more of their expensive anti-ageing cream. She was made to look younger, not by the cream in question, but by some clever airbrushing work on the computer!!
So they have been telling lies, and have been told to stop it.
But most of us would like an airbrushed image - to seem better than we are, so that we might be better liked and appreciated. In our image obsessed culture, we focus on the outward appearance. And yet we live with the fear that 'if you really knew me, you wouldn't like me'.
The Psalmist has discovered an astonishing truth. Not only does the Lord know all about him, but he knows he is loved and blessed by his all-knowing Creator..
O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me.
You know when I sit down or stand up.
You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.
You see me when I travel and when I rest at home.
You know everything I do.
You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord.
You go before me and follow me.
You place your hand of blessing on my head.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too great for me to understand! (Psalm 139.1-6)
To know we are loved by the One who made us, and who knows us through and through, is the way to freedom from our relentless obsession with ourselves. As Jesus said, "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8.32)
The truth which sets us free can be put in many ways. How about this thought? We are NOT the centre of the universe, and we are loved by the One who is.
I find that so amazing, that it frees me from loads of worries and fears. Good medicine for a sick soul!
Best wishes,
Richard
Julia Roberts is getting older!
But the recent L'Oreal advert made her look much younger, as part of their campaign to sell more of their expensive anti-ageing cream. She was made to look younger, not by the cream in question, but by some clever airbrushing work on the computer!!
So they have been telling lies, and have been told to stop it.
But most of us would like an airbrushed image - to seem better than we are, so that we might be better liked and appreciated. In our image obsessed culture, we focus on the outward appearance. And yet we live with the fear that 'if you really knew me, you wouldn't like me'.
The Psalmist has discovered an astonishing truth. Not only does the Lord know all about him, but he knows he is loved and blessed by his all-knowing Creator..
O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me.
You know when I sit down or stand up.
You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.
You see me when I travel and when I rest at home.
You know everything I do.
You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord.
You go before me and follow me.
You place your hand of blessing on my head.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too great for me to understand! (Psalm 139.1-6)
To know we are loved by the One who made us, and who knows us through and through, is the way to freedom from our relentless obsession with ourselves. As Jesus said, "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8.32)
The truth which sets us free can be put in many ways. How about this thought? We are NOT the centre of the universe, and we are loved by the One who is.
I find that so amazing, that it frees me from loads of worries and fears. Good medicine for a sick soul!
Best wishes,
Richard
Tuesday, 26 July 2011
Direction
We had a map, and set off from the Car Park, by turning right along the lane, as the guide book said. However, we were soon in a place unrecognised from the guide book's description. We seemed to be well and truly lost! Apart from retracing our steps, we didn't know where we were, nor which way to go! After an hour or so, we came across a path we thought we recognised, and at last we were back!
Our mistake - to take the wrong path from the Car Park, which was going in the wrong direction! How interesting!
Apply this story to any situation you like - the economy, the government, preparations for the Olympics, going on your family holiday or what ever takes your fancy. We can easily be lost. What direction should we choose?
So it is very helpful when Jesus talks to his puzzled and confused disciples. 'When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.”
“No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.' (John 14.3-6)
Unless we go in the right direction, we can never reach the right destination. But Jeus promises a simple way to ensure we go the right way and get to right destination - go with Him.
In the details and the decisions of today, that is what we all need. Lets set off with him this morning, and let him lead us to the evening - going right.
Best wishes,
Richard
Our mistake - to take the wrong path from the Car Park, which was going in the wrong direction! How interesting!
Apply this story to any situation you like - the economy, the government, preparations for the Olympics, going on your family holiday or what ever takes your fancy. We can easily be lost. What direction should we choose?
So it is very helpful when Jesus talks to his puzzled and confused disciples. 'When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.”
“No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.' (John 14.3-6)
Unless we go in the right direction, we can never reach the right destination. But Jeus promises a simple way to ensure we go the right way and get to right destination - go with Him.
In the details and the decisions of today, that is what we all need. Lets set off with him this morning, and let him lead us to the evening - going right.
Best wishes,
Richard
Monday, 25 July 2011
Networks
Networks work!
We hear stories of the way the social networking sites, like Facebook, have influenced events in the Middle East.
Egypt, Tunisia, Syria and Libya have all seen changes, as significant numbers of people have worked together, enabled by their internet connections, and networking links. Their networks have brought confidence and courage to those facing repressive regimes.
But all of us know the power of good or bad networks in our own lives. When families work well, they are an amazing force for good. When trouble breaks out, in communities, we know the results.
St. Paul reminded us of the network within which we all live, as followers of Christ. And he spoke passionately of the changes we can expect in our own lives.
'So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.' (Galatians 5.16a, 22-25 edited!)
So long as we keep connected to this dynamic Jesus network, enabled by his Holy Spirit, and encouraged by one another, our lives can be places of amazing life and blessing to those around us. Instead of being obsessed by ourselves, we get to live useful and God-glorifying lives. How amazing.
Best wishes,
Richard
We hear stories of the way the social networking sites, like Facebook, have influenced events in the Middle East.
Egypt, Tunisia, Syria and Libya have all seen changes, as significant numbers of people have worked together, enabled by their internet connections, and networking links. Their networks have brought confidence and courage to those facing repressive regimes.
But all of us know the power of good or bad networks in our own lives. When families work well, they are an amazing force for good. When trouble breaks out, in communities, we know the results.
St. Paul reminded us of the network within which we all live, as followers of Christ. And he spoke passionately of the changes we can expect in our own lives.
'So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.' (Galatians 5.16a, 22-25 edited!)
So long as we keep connected to this dynamic Jesus network, enabled by his Holy Spirit, and encouraged by one another, our lives can be places of amazing life and blessing to those around us. Instead of being obsessed by ourselves, we get to live useful and God-glorifying lives. How amazing.
Best wishes,
Richard
Friday, 22 July 2011
Blinded
The rabbit caught in the headlights didn't have a chance. Its escape route was frozen in a moment of petrified blindness. The very light which helped the car driver brought death to the rabbit.
Our culture sees this event repeated all around us. People like us are blinded by the appeal of celebrity fame and fortune, by the attractiveness of material pleasures, and by the transience of the present. Our souls die daily as we miss the purpose for which we were created.
Jesus knew this, and the crowds around him faced the same issues. His appeal was great, but his remedy was too challenging for most. 'Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?' (Mark 8.34-37)
Today, we will all face the dangers of being blinded by the attractiveness of stuff, and the only known antidote that works is being close to Jesus. Closely walking with Jesus, moment by moment, will keep us out of danger and lead us into deeper fellowship with him.
Which is your choice today? Mine is with Jesus.
Best wishes,
Richard
Our culture sees this event repeated all around us. People like us are blinded by the appeal of celebrity fame and fortune, by the attractiveness of material pleasures, and by the transience of the present. Our souls die daily as we miss the purpose for which we were created.
Jesus knew this, and the crowds around him faced the same issues. His appeal was great, but his remedy was too challenging for most. 'Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?' (Mark 8.34-37)
Today, we will all face the dangers of being blinded by the attractiveness of stuff, and the only known antidote that works is being close to Jesus. Closely walking with Jesus, moment by moment, will keep us out of danger and lead us into deeper fellowship with him.
Which is your choice today? Mine is with Jesus.
Best wishes,
Richard
Monday, 18 July 2011
Staying Relaxed
Golf is a maddening game. I know, as I used to watch my dad getting mad when things didn't go right. Golf clubs would be thrown and the air was blue with expletives!
I have had my moments of frustration too, when the ball disappears into the woods.
But yesterday, in the wild weather of Kent, Darren Clarke won the Open Championship, at the grand old age of 42. Throughout the 4 days, he stayed relaxed, and was able to play much better because of it. Confident in his own ability, he refused to tense up and get stressed. That improved his performance. The result was there for all golf fans to see.
Most of us get stressed about things, at times, and I guess we all know that it doesn't usually improve matters. Is there a way to learn to stay relaxed?
Jesus seemed to know human experience well, and he saw a way to help us. 'Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”' (Matthew 11.28-30)
Doing life with Jesus alongside us - that is the image of sharing his yoke - is the way we were designed to live. If we are determined to do life on our own, struggling in our own obstinate strength, we should expect to be stressed and tense. But if we learn from Him, and humble ourselves, and accept His leadership and direction, then we can relax ourselves into His safe care.
Whatever today's pressures, we can discover this secret of handing it ALL over to Jesus. That would be great for us and those around us.
Let us stay relaxed today.
Best wishes,
Richard
I have had my moments of frustration too, when the ball disappears into the woods.
But yesterday, in the wild weather of Kent, Darren Clarke won the Open Championship, at the grand old age of 42. Throughout the 4 days, he stayed relaxed, and was able to play much better because of it. Confident in his own ability, he refused to tense up and get stressed. That improved his performance. The result was there for all golf fans to see.
Most of us get stressed about things, at times, and I guess we all know that it doesn't usually improve matters. Is there a way to learn to stay relaxed?
Jesus seemed to know human experience well, and he saw a way to help us. 'Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”' (Matthew 11.28-30)
Doing life with Jesus alongside us - that is the image of sharing his yoke - is the way we were designed to live. If we are determined to do life on our own, struggling in our own obstinate strength, we should expect to be stressed and tense. But if we learn from Him, and humble ourselves, and accept His leadership and direction, then we can relax ourselves into His safe care.
Whatever today's pressures, we can discover this secret of handing it ALL over to Jesus. That would be great for us and those around us.
Let us stay relaxed today.
Best wishes,
Richard
Friday, 15 July 2011
Appearance
Our visual culture loves image and appearance. It is long since it was stated that 'One Picture is worth a Thousand Words'. For some, appearance is all that matters. For many, style is more important than substance.
Many newspapers and other media have long made it their business to feed us stories of image and appearance. While the official position with regard to the law is that people are deemed to be innocent until proved guilty, in the fast moving world of 24 hour media, evidence and proof are of less importance. Allegations and innuendo will do very well, thank you!
So it is hugely ironic that the Murdoch empire has been dealt a blow to their advances through persistent allegations and public outcry, on account of what may have happened. As we know, the police are still in the midst of their enquiries, and even the House of Commons Select Committee is only asking questions about this whole business. We do not yet know the substance of what has been happening, though we mostly don't like the style or appearance of what we think has happened
Reputations are threatened because of the appearance of evil practice.
So it not surprising that St. Paul warns his friends in Thessalonica, 'Abstain from all appearance of evil.' (1 Thessalonians 5.22)
Other translations have it as 'Stay away from every kind of evil.' This reminds us to be more careful about how we live, because other people may well make their judgements about the Jesus we follow, based on the lives we lead in full view of those watching. Of course, by keeping close to Jesus, we can live lives which allow him to shine through us all day. Wouldn't that be great!
Best wishes,
Richard
Many newspapers and other media have long made it their business to feed us stories of image and appearance. While the official position with regard to the law is that people are deemed to be innocent until proved guilty, in the fast moving world of 24 hour media, evidence and proof are of less importance. Allegations and innuendo will do very well, thank you!
So it is hugely ironic that the Murdoch empire has been dealt a blow to their advances through persistent allegations and public outcry, on account of what may have happened. As we know, the police are still in the midst of their enquiries, and even the House of Commons Select Committee is only asking questions about this whole business. We do not yet know the substance of what has been happening, though we mostly don't like the style or appearance of what we think has happened
Reputations are threatened because of the appearance of evil practice.
So it not surprising that St. Paul warns his friends in Thessalonica, 'Abstain from all appearance of evil.' (1 Thessalonians 5.22)
Other translations have it as 'Stay away from every kind of evil.' This reminds us to be more careful about how we live, because other people may well make their judgements about the Jesus we follow, based on the lives we lead in full view of those watching. Of course, by keeping close to Jesus, we can live lives which allow him to shine through us all day. Wouldn't that be great!
Best wishes,
Richard
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