I am part of a wonderful fellowship group that meets every other Friday at my home. We always have dinner together followed by Bible study. Usually, I do the cooking for the group that averages 10 adults and a few children. Unless it's been a really busy week, I look forward to making supper. I've always felt a special pleasure from creating an environment where people can talk and ministry can take place. I think this is what the Bible calls hospitality. But it's been only recently that I've come to realize that hospitality is more than just a nice thing. It is something commanded in the Bible, and is vital for attracting friends old and new to Christ and caring for them.
Hospitality fosters spiritual growth - my own and my friends'. It is a meal that is being prepared, not just the feeding of some guests. Regardless of how simple the meal, I've come to realize that it can be a communion with God through his created elements (the food). Someone has said that this is why we say grace before we eat. The detail and creativity that goes into chopping, blending, braising, and tasting of meats, vegetables, sauces and sweets is in itself a celebration of the richness of God's creation. "Everything that lives and moves will be food for you" (Genesis 9:3). A meal nourishes not just the body, but also the soul because it is celebrating together all that it means to be a human being made in the image of God. As I prepare I am loving my friends. We don't just eat, but we love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength by sharing a meal.
The biblical enjoinder to "practice hospitality" (Romans 12:13) is a forgotten command. However, I've found that preparing a meal, creating an environment for conversation both light and deep, and opening my family's home life to others brings a true return of joy. When I feel that I don't want to do it, I remind myself that the sense of work in it is always transformed to transcendent fellowship around the table - and at that moment, I look forward to doing it again. You have to see us there! Our times together are marked by rip-roaring laughter one second, and tender encouragement the next. And there's always dessert after the Bible study.
There are a number of individuals and families I know of who regularly practice hospitality. Perhaps this is why members of our faith community perennially say that the one thing they most appreciate about our church is their fellowship/small group. Hospitality is a spiritual gift that really makes a difference in our community life. I get a lot more out of gathering in a loving home than in the standard church classroom.
Just one more thought on the gift of hospitality. Like any other gift, it is of the Spirit, so there is no need to worry about setting up the right conditions for its use. My house and life does not need to be 100% neat and in order for hospitality to be exercised. Trying to look perfect is missing the point. I love this beautiful picture from Psalm 23: "You prepare a table before me." God is the Source of hospitality. He creates a place for us always - no matter what is going on or who is around ("in the presence of my enemies"). Hospitality is a gift that's always appropriate.
So, when are you coming for dinner?
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Fountain
William Cowper was a great poet, an evangelical, and a friend of the slave-trader turned pastor, John Newton. It is said that Cowper revolutionized English poetry and letter-writing with his candor about everyday life. Some of his great works include John Gilpin, The Task, his translation of Homer, and his collaboration with Newton on the Olney Hymns. My favourite Cowper hymn was written by him at the end of a severe bout of depression – something that Cowper suffered and struggled with all his life. There is an incredible sense of relief and release in these verses which fills my heart with hope.
There is a fountain filled with blood
There is a fountain filled with blood drawn from Emmanuel’s veins;
And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guilty stains.
Lose all their guilty stains, lose all their guilty stains;
And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guilty stains.
The dying thief rejoiced to see that fountain in his day;
And there have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.
Washed all my sins away, washed all my sins away;
And there have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.
Dear dying Lamb, Thy precious blood shall never lose its power
Till all the ransomed church of God be saved, to sin no more.
Be saved, to sin no more, be saved, to sin no more;
Till all the ransomed church of God be saved, to sin no more.
E’er since, by faith, I saw the stream Thy flowing wounds supply,
Redeeming love has been my theme, and shall be till I die.
And shall be till I die, and shall be till I die;
Redeeming love has been my theme, and shall be till I die.
Then in a nobler, sweeter song, I’ll sing Thy power to save,
When this poor lisping, stammering tongue lies silent in the grave.
Lies silent in the grave, lies silent in the grave;
When this poor lisping, stammering tongue lies silent in the grave.
Lord, I believe Thou hast prepared, unworthy though I be,
For me a blood bought free reward, a golden harp for me!
’Tis strung and tuned for endless years, and formed by power divine,
To sound in God the Father’s ears no other name but Thine.
by William Cowper, in Conyer’s Collection of Psalms and Hymns, 1772.
There is a fountain filled with blood
There is a fountain filled with blood drawn from Emmanuel’s veins;
And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guilty stains.
Lose all their guilty stains, lose all their guilty stains;
And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guilty stains.
The dying thief rejoiced to see that fountain in his day;
And there have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.
Washed all my sins away, washed all my sins away;
And there have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.
Dear dying Lamb, Thy precious blood shall never lose its power
Till all the ransomed church of God be saved, to sin no more.
Be saved, to sin no more, be saved, to sin no more;
Till all the ransomed church of God be saved, to sin no more.
E’er since, by faith, I saw the stream Thy flowing wounds supply,
Redeeming love has been my theme, and shall be till I die.
And shall be till I die, and shall be till I die;
Redeeming love has been my theme, and shall be till I die.
Then in a nobler, sweeter song, I’ll sing Thy power to save,
When this poor lisping, stammering tongue lies silent in the grave.
Lies silent in the grave, lies silent in the grave;
When this poor lisping, stammering tongue lies silent in the grave.
Lord, I believe Thou hast prepared, unworthy though I be,
For me a blood bought free reward, a golden harp for me!
’Tis strung and tuned for endless years, and formed by power divine,
To sound in God the Father’s ears no other name but Thine.
by William Cowper, in Conyer’s Collection of Psalms and Hymns, 1772.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Entitlement
Why are people all around me, and I guess I should count myself part of the crowd, so self-obsessed and self-centred? I think we live in a culture of entitlement. We each believe, "I am entitled to it." Entitled to what? We think we deserve our toys. We deserve better teachers. We deserve better classes. We deserve a job with reasonable hours and excellent pay. We deserve to see the fruit of our labours. We deserve to have friends that care in an appropriate way at all the right times. I should have an easier life. I should have better prices on my music, my gadgets, my insurance policies. I should have a fulfilling sense of achievement and satisfaction for all I do. I should not have to put up with criticism. I should have people falling all over me with appreciation. Dang it all, I'm entitled to it!
After all, I've worked hard. I've suffered and sacrificed to get here. I've cared for others and given of myself. My years of education should be paying off now. My on-the-job loyalty should get me some clout, bonus vacation time, and seniority. People should listen to me and get on the ball. I am faithful in doing what is expected of me and more besides. What else can be demanded of me? It's time I demanded something for myself.
Ooooooh! Does this sound like me? I truly hope not, even if you might have heard me complain like this before. My trouble with all this is, I believe our generation talks and acts like this all the time. It really wears on me to hear people elevate themselves and complain about the injustice of life. Well, let me say it point blank: If I am like this, I really don't deserve anything.
What ever happened to "count your blessings"? I don't think our generation can count - at least not blessings. We are afflicted with entitlement sickness - we complain about what we have and demand more. It is not reasonable. It is not seeing the big picture. It is not Christlike. He was never about entitlement, and if anyone ever deserved a return for investment, it would be Jesus. Yet his legacy is wavering, half-hearted disciples like me. What ever happened to "anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me"? If we must complain, how about caring about the things that break God's heart?
The problem, I believe, is the impoverished vision we have of God, and the miniscule understanding we have of life in Christ. A real vision of God vanquishes all demands and questions. Think of Job who was rendered speechless by a vision of God at a time when he had real reason to complain about justice in life. An understanding of life in Christ compels perseverance and joy. Think of the fullness (abundance) of life promised to those who trust in him. Believe it or not, the difficulties and hurts of life contribute to that fullness. Here's where I have to grow: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Get off the entitlement bandwagon! Well, that's my rant. Maybe you can tell I'm a bit ill-tempered today?
After all, I've worked hard. I've suffered and sacrificed to get here. I've cared for others and given of myself. My years of education should be paying off now. My on-the-job loyalty should get me some clout, bonus vacation time, and seniority. People should listen to me and get on the ball. I am faithful in doing what is expected of me and more besides. What else can be demanded of me? It's time I demanded something for myself.
Ooooooh! Does this sound like me? I truly hope not, even if you might have heard me complain like this before. My trouble with all this is, I believe our generation talks and acts like this all the time. It really wears on me to hear people elevate themselves and complain about the injustice of life. Well, let me say it point blank: If I am like this, I really don't deserve anything.
What ever happened to "count your blessings"? I don't think our generation can count - at least not blessings. We are afflicted with entitlement sickness - we complain about what we have and demand more. It is not reasonable. It is not seeing the big picture. It is not Christlike. He was never about entitlement, and if anyone ever deserved a return for investment, it would be Jesus. Yet his legacy is wavering, half-hearted disciples like me. What ever happened to "anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me"? If we must complain, how about caring about the things that break God's heart?
The problem, I believe, is the impoverished vision we have of God, and the miniscule understanding we have of life in Christ. A real vision of God vanquishes all demands and questions. Think of Job who was rendered speechless by a vision of God at a time when he had real reason to complain about justice in life. An understanding of life in Christ compels perseverance and joy. Think of the fullness (abundance) of life promised to those who trust in him. Believe it or not, the difficulties and hurts of life contribute to that fullness. Here's where I have to grow: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Get off the entitlement bandwagon! Well, that's my rant. Maybe you can tell I'm a bit ill-tempered today?
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Sparkle
This is the word that I use to describe a person who brings indescribable joy into my family's life. He has the sort of personality that lights up a room whenever he enters. His face is pleasant and sweet as he is. Friends find him easy-going and fun to be around. He is a reasonably good student, loves sport, and loves people. I think he is quite well-rounded.
Although he wears his emotions on his sleeve, he is amazingly even-tempered. He can be hurt or angered, but always, always, the smile of an unburdened conscience rapidly prevails. I wish we were all like this. The world would be so much more pleasant. You should see when something exciting happens in his world. Recently, he did very well on a school essay - the teacher requested to keep it. His exuberance is quite physical. He is not shy, and will dance and jump if there's reason for it.
Perhaps what I appreciate the most about him is his sense of himself. He is not a proud person, nor is he falsely self-effacing. A realistic humility allows him to be unapologetic about what he is good at, and unhesitating at asking for help where he needs it. Being genuinely enthusiastic about the abilities of others makes him a welcome cheerleader among his peers. There is no island mentality in him. He speaks freely about what he finds amazing about his friends - whether their abilities, character, or life circumstances. He is often thrust into the role of a peacemaker, and I think he is uniquely gifted to bridge the distance between people torn apart. I hope that God will bless him with such a lifetime role. This hope lives because God is first in his life. This is evidenced by a teachable attitude, and timely follow-through on new truths learned.
Of course, perfection eludes even him. He does have some growing to do to become more sensitive, helpful, and less defensive. But there is plenty about him that tells me he is well on his way.
My son sparkles!
Well, he has just turned 16, and has gotten his learner's driving permit. So all of you on the road out there, look out!
Although he wears his emotions on his sleeve, he is amazingly even-tempered. He can be hurt or angered, but always, always, the smile of an unburdened conscience rapidly prevails. I wish we were all like this. The world would be so much more pleasant. You should see when something exciting happens in his world. Recently, he did very well on a school essay - the teacher requested to keep it. His exuberance is quite physical. He is not shy, and will dance and jump if there's reason for it.
Perhaps what I appreciate the most about him is his sense of himself. He is not a proud person, nor is he falsely self-effacing. A realistic humility allows him to be unapologetic about what he is good at, and unhesitating at asking for help where he needs it. Being genuinely enthusiastic about the abilities of others makes him a welcome cheerleader among his peers. There is no island mentality in him. He speaks freely about what he finds amazing about his friends - whether their abilities, character, or life circumstances. He is often thrust into the role of a peacemaker, and I think he is uniquely gifted to bridge the distance between people torn apart. I hope that God will bless him with such a lifetime role. This hope lives because God is first in his life. This is evidenced by a teachable attitude, and timely follow-through on new truths learned.
Of course, perfection eludes even him. He does have some growing to do to become more sensitive, helpful, and less defensive. But there is plenty about him that tells me he is well on his way.
My son sparkles!
Well, he has just turned 16, and has gotten his learner's driving permit. So all of you on the road out there, look out!
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Wean
These are the days of mixed feelings. Each passage of life brings the thrill of something new and the anticipation of growth. At the same time, there are tears and fears.
Our first child has gone off to college. My wife and I have been excited about this for some time. Preparing for college is a big project for a family: reading up on every course, facility and service the university provides; budgeting; trying to think of and buy all the stuff needed for living in residence; moving. It's a time when being aware of one's emotions through the process is suppressed because of the focus on the things that need to be done. But now she is there. We are here. And there is time to think about it.
I realize that even though I miss her, I'm OK with her being away. She is growing up and this is the way people grow up. It's actually fun to communicate at a distance (how great is the internet!), and to get her updates and personal commentary on her new experiences. So far, she is very positive about her courses and professors. I think she likes her surroundings and the campus. Nevertheless, her daily pining to "come home" is so sweet, and tugs at my heart.
Worry! Well, I am a parent after all. But the worry is not about her success at university or achieving what she desires. My wife and I are anxious that she may be lonely. We worry that she may find university life less than all it was hyped up to be. We hope that she joins a good fellowship group. We hope that she can do some sports. We hope that she makes some friends, and builds some meaningful friendships. This is important because we know she has little tolerance for superficial or acquaintance type relationships. She needs a few people with whom she does not feel "awkward." We give suggestions and advice, but that's about all we can do.
Years ago, I wrote her a little short story about a princess who was loved by her parents. Her parents knew well enough that as the passages of life came along, the best they could do was to commend their princess to the Lord. We did, and do still.
Our first child has gone off to college. My wife and I have been excited about this for some time. Preparing for college is a big project for a family: reading up on every course, facility and service the university provides; budgeting; trying to think of and buy all the stuff needed for living in residence; moving. It's a time when being aware of one's emotions through the process is suppressed because of the focus on the things that need to be done. But now she is there. We are here. And there is time to think about it.
I realize that even though I miss her, I'm OK with her being away. She is growing up and this is the way people grow up. It's actually fun to communicate at a distance (how great is the internet!), and to get her updates and personal commentary on her new experiences. So far, she is very positive about her courses and professors. I think she likes her surroundings and the campus. Nevertheless, her daily pining to "come home" is so sweet, and tugs at my heart.
Worry! Well, I am a parent after all. But the worry is not about her success at university or achieving what she desires. My wife and I are anxious that she may be lonely. We worry that she may find university life less than all it was hyped up to be. We hope that she joins a good fellowship group. We hope that she can do some sports. We hope that she makes some friends, and builds some meaningful friendships. This is important because we know she has little tolerance for superficial or acquaintance type relationships. She needs a few people with whom she does not feel "awkward." We give suggestions and advice, but that's about all we can do.
Years ago, I wrote her a little short story about a princess who was loved by her parents. Her parents knew well enough that as the passages of life came along, the best they could do was to commend their princess to the Lord. We did, and do still.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Body
It has been so busy lately that I hardly have time to breathe! However, I've learned so much as a result of the bombardment of demands, deadlines, people to see and talk to, etc. Most of all, it has become very apparent that I cannot do it all.
Having a closed type of personality and being stubbornly self-reliant, I tend to do everything myself. I'm not sure how I've gotten by all these years. As I look back, it appears that many projects would have been done better and have been much more successful if I had not horded the work. The recent busyness has proved this because others have had to do what I would have done myself if there were enough time. I have to admit that the results are much better than if I had done everything myself.
A visit by my brother has also helped me see the bigger picture. Beyond the small world of my work, there is the world out there with which I also need to be concerned, even though I cannot go there. This is where others, like my brother who is dedicated to being out there, come into the picture. I can actually participate through prayer and other support, and be part of their team. Ultimately, all such work is a team effort.
It's funny that I'm still growing up even though I'm middle-aged; learning about teamwork, and that we are part of the body. Life is such an adventure. Deepening in relationship with God, and experiencing his redemptive power change the recesses of my life is ongoing. I am thankful beyond words.
Having a closed type of personality and being stubbornly self-reliant, I tend to do everything myself. I'm not sure how I've gotten by all these years. As I look back, it appears that many projects would have been done better and have been much more successful if I had not horded the work. The recent busyness has proved this because others have had to do what I would have done myself if there were enough time. I have to admit that the results are much better than if I had done everything myself.
A visit by my brother has also helped me see the bigger picture. Beyond the small world of my work, there is the world out there with which I also need to be concerned, even though I cannot go there. This is where others, like my brother who is dedicated to being out there, come into the picture. I can actually participate through prayer and other support, and be part of their team. Ultimately, all such work is a team effort.
It's funny that I'm still growing up even though I'm middle-aged; learning about teamwork, and that we are part of the body. Life is such an adventure. Deepening in relationship with God, and experiencing his redemptive power change the recesses of my life is ongoing. I am thankful beyond words.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Eight
As it rolls around each year, and before I actually notice the exact day of the anniversary, I find myself given to a kind of quiet melancholy. The past week has not been sad or unhappy. Actually, with family events and people all around, it's proving to be a really enjoyable, exuberant summer full of laughter and smiles. Nevertheless, behind everything this week, I'm experiencing a heart-tugging pensiveness. I feel a little blue. It's been eight years since he died.
It's amazing the way God makes us. I am convinced that memory is one of his great gifts to us. I don't deliberately look for it, but it happens every year, very much like an internal clock.
Truth be told, I would not want it any other way. I would be devastated if I found that I had forgotten him. He was amazing. He was the biggest challenge in my life, indelibly shaping who I am today. Our relationship was so unique. We loved each other: our brotherhood was marked by unusual enmity and suffering one moment, and then the sweetest communion of souls the next. I know that I am a more patient man, able to care better today for having known him.
Hey, I love you still... and I want to be a little sad today because the memory is so alive. And I know my joy will not be contained when I see you again in the presence of our Father.
It's amazing the way God makes us. I am convinced that memory is one of his great gifts to us. I don't deliberately look for it, but it happens every year, very much like an internal clock.
Truth be told, I would not want it any other way. I would be devastated if I found that I had forgotten him. He was amazing. He was the biggest challenge in my life, indelibly shaping who I am today. Our relationship was so unique. We loved each other: our brotherhood was marked by unusual enmity and suffering one moment, and then the sweetest communion of souls the next. I know that I am a more patient man, able to care better today for having known him.
Hey, I love you still... and I want to be a little sad today because the memory is so alive. And I know my joy will not be contained when I see you again in the presence of our Father.
