Christianity is not a theory or speculation, but a life; not a philosophy of life, but a living presence.

I don’t deserve God, I know. God is a consuming fire, I fear. God loves me, I cannot fathom it. God is gracious, I am thankful. God is the creator, I can see. God is the great I AM, for this I will eternally glorify him.

I am a creature, who is weak. I am a sinner, who thinks he doesn’t need God. I am a student; an employee, a member of society, member of a family, a member of the church, and a servant of an almighty God. Yes “I am” too, but I am all these things as a sinner. By Gods grace, that as all changed (and is changing). “I am” no longer, but I am Christ. He clothes me in righteousness; he fills me with his Spirit. I live for Him, and I die for Him. He gives me new eyes, so I can see; new hears, so I can hear; a new heart, so I understand; His Spirit, so I can fight.

I asked myself this week, why we cannot understand all these things? Why do we find sleep more important then reading the Word of God? Fitting into a peer group more important then His glory? Money more important then trusting Him. Pride more important then humility. We may find work more important then family, and praising the Rockies more then praising Him (at least till they start losing again).

Devotions. That is the answer. I cannot explain God grace; it is totally and absolutely amazing. In spite of me rejecting Him so many times in my life He continues to be gracious -- each and every time he leads me back to the pasture. He does this through the working of the Word, and the power of prayer. When daily meditation is missing, my walk with God is lacking. The less I turn to His Word and constant prayer, the more I turn to the world and the things of it. It is astonishing to see the effect, and power that daily devotions have had in my life, and how God has chosen to work through that. Along with the Lord’s Day it is the very center point of a Christians walk with God. How difficult is it to set a half hour apart for the sake of His glory and our salvation, which he works through the word and prayer? That is 1/48th of my day, less then I spend on any other major activity.

~Johan

Enthusiastic Fellowship

These last several weeks seemed like a whirlwind. With choir, volleyball, work, and school almost every night was filled with some activity. On top of that, two new roommates moved into the house. We now have four guys living together again, and we are very blessed that we are all committed to the Lord. However, while on the bus one morning, I found that I had some extra time to think. I highly recommend a daily dose of bus riding. It is a great place for people watching, increase your awareness of the city, and also a great way to relax and meditate. The "0" bus (Broadway loop) perfectly satisfies this daily prescription.

I have been reading a book called The Ragamuffin Gospel on my rides in to work, and it is quite thought provoking. The book focuses on the incomprehensibility of God's grace and how this should lead to great joy in the Christian's life - Joy and enthusiasm for God's love shown in the wondrous acts of salvation. But how does this connect to a busy week and bus riding? I found myself thinking on the bus Friday morning... God has tremendously blessed me with many different activities and I am very grateful for this. However, is my life compartmentalized? I thank God for the ability to do all these activities... but is that as far as it should go? Is the Word of God continually on my lips? Have you ever enjoyed a particular sermon or read a specific passage and been burning to speak to someone about it. Yet, when you talked to someone the passion fell flat... and it was easier to switch to another topic. Much to my shame I know I have been on the other end of this scenario sometimes thinking..."hmmm, now is not a good time to discuss this. Shouldn't we wait for a bible study or Sunday to talk about this? Sorry... but this is Bible related, I have specific times and moods when I can discuss this... so how about the Colorado Rockies?"

What a shame!

A message by Rev. Muarice Roberts on this very topic particularly struck me. He used this passage as his text:

Malachi 3: 16-18 - Then those who feared the LORD spoke to one another, and the LORD gave attention and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the LORD and who esteem His name. "They will be Mine," says the LORD of hosts, "on the day that I prepare My own possession, and I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him." So you will again distinguish between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him.

What is more pleasing to God? Our discussion of the Rockies sports success? How we played volleyball?

I pray that, just like Psalm 119, I may sing the praises of God's word. I pray that Psalm 119:103 may be always be true.

How sweet are Your words to my taste!
Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!

~Gerrit