I Hope We Never Become a ‘Christian Nation’ Again
In reality, Christianity in America may not have the same political, social, and corporate authority it did in the past, but Jesus never intended to spread the gospel message through political strength or domineering control.
Such things are rarely talked about in churches, yet this particular sin affects almost every young person today and in many generations recently past. We talk often about homosexuality, abortion, adultery and “shacking up” yet many more people are participating in a much more harmful sin. The problem with porn is that it is so subtle in the ways it destroys you that many people believe it’s not hurting them at all.
What’s the Purpose of Our Work?
The work we were given from the beginning of our existence was to “fill the earth and subdue it.” Think about the significance of this. God spent six days creating this unbelievable creation, and he immediately handed its stewardship over to us.
Imagine the care and intentionality that God must have devoted to his creation. Then imagine how significant it was for him to entrust it all into our care. The work we’ve been given is an extraordinary gift that God has entrusted to us.
Speaking of the father of faith, Abraham, Romans 4:17 gives us clear and direct insight to the Difference Maker. …in the sight of Him whom he believed, even God, who gives life to the dead and calls into being that which does not exist.
T-h-i-s i-s t-h-e D-i-f-f-e-r-e-n-c-e M-a-k-e-r! The difference between God/faith/church over all other entities is the resurrection factor that circumstances which appear hopeless can regain hope. God can make something from nothing. We are to actually live from such a base.
Extroverts and Introverts in the Body of Christ
So while our culture will ever be debating the merits of the sanguine, melancholy, ENFJ, INTJ, and the like we can rest in the fact that though they might be helpful in showing us a little bit more about ourselves, they aren’t exhaustive and they aren’t a hierarchy. One does not hold power over the other. We can trust that in the body of Christ every hand, foot, eye, or mouth is needed.
I used to be bolder in my faith, but comfort is so appealing. It isn’t Jesus who lures us to comfort as the resting place of our faith. How can we be bolder, more adventurous in our faith? How can we turn our autonomy back over to God and instead of doing what we want to do, do what he wants us to do? I’m not sure of all the answers, but part of the solution is becoming aware of just how insulated and comfortable we’ve made ourselves (or more personal–how comfortable I’ve made myself).
Culturally Intelligent Chit-Chat
Sometimes we spend so much time deliberating the ideal skills for cross-border negotiation and intercultural communication that we overlook one of the most important ones—small talk! What you say during a formal interview or meeting is important. But your overall likability and trustworthiness may more likely be judged based upon your informal conversation in the elevator or over lunch.
Stay-at-home Dad Leaves Post-Its for his Wife
On May 19th, 2010, Chris Illuminati quit his job to be a stay-at-home father for his newly born son. When beginning his endeavor, Chris stated “As a reminder of everything going on with my writing, I leave Post-It Notes around my office as reminders. I decided to incorporate those same organizational principles while watching my son.”
The Post-Its left for his permanent roommate (his wife) comically capture the day to day endeavors of raising a child.