Christmas '11

I can finally sit and let out a deep breath and take some time to reflect on Christmas and the coming year.  Many people send out letters with the Christmas cards, and as I thought about what I would write if I were to send out a letter, I realized that most of the significant and notable happenings of the past year have revolved around Church or Church-related activities:

• One of the areas I feel blessed to have experienced and be a part of, is being on Selection Committee.    What an amazing experience to see the Holy Spirit working in selecting elders and members of the committee.  It gave me insight into some of the passages in Acts when the leaders were chosen in the Early Church.
• Another amazing experience was the Journeys of Paul Tour.   What a privilege to be able to travel to Greece and Turkey with my Pastor and the group from my Church.   
• And then studying through the Book of Acts.   Not only did the trip help supplement the study by helping me to visualize parts of Paul's Missionary Journeys; but, I really felt like I got to "know" the Apostle Paul a lot better.   And, I've learned much from the example of the Early Church.
• God has given me opportunities to serve and help the needy, an answer to previous prayer requests - my class did the Yes House Thanksgiving outreach and has completed another year of serving at COA.   Just last night, we served dinner and passed out Christmas Goodies packages.   Learning from the experiences of last year, it went quite smoothly and we didn't have too much left-overs, while still being able to be generous in giving seconds (and some thirds).   We served ham with pineapple (learned to glaze at COA rather than the night before to avoid the glaze spilling over during transport - however, in the future, should use more brown sugar) [10 10 lb hams at $1.50 per pound; were able to get 20 slices per ham], mashed potatoes (these were instant ones, but were well received), green beans with cubed ham pieces from the edges and cream of mushroom (next time, should reserve the liquid and only pour in as much as needed - it was a little too watery, causing me to have to add flour)  [8 cans of green beans, 2 cans of cream of mushroom - one ladle per serving], and Hawaiian bread rolls.  For the Christmas packages, we again used the brown paper bags decorated by the kids at church; this time, instead of punching holes and tying ribbons, we just put on gift tag stickers - in the future, it is important to buy the larger stickers so that they would stay on (the smaller ones would fall off or  require tape to keep the bag closed).   We put in an orange, a "Meaning of Christmas" tract, candy canes (to fit the message), and a combination of cookies, candy bars, lollipops, baked sweet bread,etc.   Throughout the year, we were also able to give out some Bibles, and I trust that God was able to use the messages.

There were, however, also some challenges through the year - my mom's illness, having to deal with the rental, weight of responsibilities, etc.   Yet, I do feel that I have grown through them all; and I know that God was with me through them.

Looking towards the New Year, I'm excited that I found my verse for the year associated with my area of focus on PRAYER.   In reading through the Book of Luke in response to the encouragement from my Asst Pastor, the verse stood out as I read it last night:  "But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed." (Luke 5:16).   This verse came in the context of Jesus in the midst of the demands of His ministry.    As I read the verse, I saw additional important reasons why I needed to focus on prayer - following Christ's example, spending time with the Father, and gaining strength, guidance, and realignment in the midst of busy-ness, maybe even overwhelming busy-ness.   I felt that I could relate to that verse; because there are times when I just feel this great need to go to a quiet place alone, in order to spend time in prayer to God.

Repentance

After the series on Evangelism in my class this month, there have been several feedback discussions on whether or not Repentance is required for Salvation.

As Paul said, he was "Solemnly testifying to both Jews and Greeks of repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ" (Acts 20:21)

The differing perspective from these other people in the class is that, as John 3:16 states, BELIEF in Christ is the only requirement for salvation, that Christ died for the sins of the world for all time, and we shouldn't impose "Repentance" as a work that is required.

However, I see BELIEF as encompassing REPENTANCE.     In order to believe in the Truths of Christ, one must recognize that He is God, that He died for our sins on the cross, that He had victory over sin and resurrected, and that He is Lord.    I don't see how a person could believe these things and not repent (turn from sin and turn to God).

Yes, Christ died for the sins of the world; but, if a person did not need to repent in order to be "born again" (or "born from above"), then all would already be saved.   Regeneration does not come until we believe; and regeneration should imply repentance for we cannot still have our old view of sin.

Sin is why Christ died on the cross.  It is what caused our separation from God and what incurs God's wrath.  So, I don't see how a person can have their relationship restored with God, without repenting.   I also don't see repentance as a "work".    It is just part of believing, just as I see that submitting to Christ as Lord is part of believing, but it is not a "work".

As I have done more research in this area, this is actually just the Lordship Salvation vs non-Lordship Salvation or Free Grace debate.  Respected theologians and teachers are on both sides of the debate (John MacArthur, RC Sproul, John Piper, etc on Lordship Salvation; and Bill Bright, Charles Ryrie, Hodges, and probably Chuck Swindoll on the Free Grace).   So, I don't expect there to be an unequivocal resolution for the discussion with those from class.

After discussions with my Pastor, the clearest statement in Scripture is: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9).    So, it is FAITH that saves us.   However, repentance is an evidence of faith; so any authentic saving faith should be accompanied by repentance.

Unwrapping Christmas

In this "Unwrapping Christmas" sermon series, my pastor wanted us to focus on the gift, rather than the glitter and color of the ribbon, wrappings, and box.   Sunday's message was from Luke 1:26-38, the story of Mary who said "Yes" to God:   "May it be to me as you have said" (vs 38).

Her life was able to be changed:  rumors, gossip, etc from others; view of her betrothal and marriage; and bearing the Holy One, Son of God.

But, also in this passage is the wonderful reminder that "Nothing is impossible with God" (vs 37)

To me, this was an encouragement to stand firm in saying "Yes" to God, even when it is not what is expected or when it will change my life radically.   Similar to the message in the movie "Courageous" which I just watched, we must have the courage to stand firm in our resolutions to God.

So, Christmas is now just 4 days away.  While I had a slow start to Christmas because of all that was happening with my mom, I've been able to get "caught up" - the cards are sent, the gifts are wrapped, and I'm prepared for the Christmas packages for our COA Outreach.  Of course, we still actually have to prepare to food and put together the packages; and serve the food and pass out the gifts today and tomorrow.   And, there's dress rehearsal and serving on the AV Team for the Christmas services.   And, I have to marinate, cook, and carve the turkey for Christmas Dinner.   But, these are all just part of Christmas; and I don't feel like I'm over busy.    In the next few days leading up to Christmas, I will try to put aside time to really contemplate what an amazing gift Christ gave us - the gift of salvation.

Unanimous

Once again it was unanimous.   This time we were voting for new members for the Selection Committee.   What a privilege to be part of this experience.     When I looked at the list of people being interviewed, I knew that it was a great group of people; and figured that we would have a difficult time deciding.  However, after the interviews were over, it was clear in my mind who were the best ones to select.  And then to hear everyone else voice the same views during the discussions, I once again knew that I was experiencing the work of the Holy Spirit.

There were a few things that stood out during the interviews.   It was clear how important it was for the person to be a person of prayer.   This reminded me of the Book of Acts, and the strong prayer life of the Early Church leaders.  Also, one person articulated how this was one of the most important committees to be part of; and my Pastor emphasized how one wrong choice in an elder could cause major problems within the Church.   The person also mentioned that she felt that elders should be PWW men:   men of Prayer, who were in the Word, and sought the Will of God.   It was neat to hear that many talked about how they wanted to grow through serving on the committee; and that if God willed it, He would help them find the time to fulfill their obligations.  It was clear that they all tried to seek God's Will.

I am pleased with God's choice for the two new members.  I look at myself and feel inadequate; but, that reminds me that feelings of inadequacy just help me to turn to God more.

Rushing Headlong into Christmas

I'm just rushing headlong right into Christmas, and there has not been much "slowing down" or "catching up".     However, despite the whirlwind busy-ness, there have been times of fun and experiences of the joy of the season.

My community small group had our Christmas party, and since this is such a fun great group of people, we always have a good time together.   We had dinner and our normal White Elephant; but, we also heard a nice Christmas story and played Pictionary using Christmas Carol and Song titles.

My class will be doing our monthly outreach at COA, and initial plans for the Christmas Goodies package we'll be passing out to them with dinner are underway.

Yesterday, I was able to help fill-in for one of the AV Team members who got sick.

I even had time to watch a few Christmas movies:  A Princess for Christmas, The Christmas Clause, A Christmas Kiss, 12 Wishes of Christmas, The Family Holiday, Eve's Christmas,and Desperately Seeking Santa.  They were all nice Christmas shows; but, my favorites were A Christmas Kiss and A Princess for Christmas.   Both were really sweetly romantic; and ultimately placed value on solid qualities and character.

And I heard a pretty funny joke:   What do you call a person who has a fear of Santa?    A Clause-trophobic :-)

Also the Figure Skating Grand Prix season concluded with the Finals.   Davis and White displayed their championship consistency once again and won the gold in Ice Dance.

I still need to do cards and wrap gifts.   Hopefully, I'll be able to get to that this week.   And, I'm glad that my brothers will be hosting the Christmas dinner this year.   I hope that it will be a time of blessing.

Christmas is Here Already?

Being physically wiped out, my thoughts on Christmas right now are, "Wait, I'm not quite ready yet."    This is one of the busiest times of the year, and I'm trying to balance all of it along with taking care of my mom.    Actually, when I look at things, I'm not doing too badly..... I've put up Christmas decorations (though less than usual), gone to the Women's Christmas Event with the purpose of running the powerpoint, "thought" about Christmas gifts, and I have my class directory updated ready for sending cards.  I guess what's been left out is "downtime"; and that is why I feel so tired out.

At least someone else is teaching my class right now on an Evangelism series.  Yesterday's lesson was an emphasis that the LAW points out our need for GRACE.    We don't know that we have sinned until we understand that we have transgressed God's LAW.

And, I appreciate Pastor Terry's sermon yesterday, a reminder that the theme of Christmas, and the whole Bible really, is SALVATION.    It is interesting that Isaiah 49:6b "I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth"; shows that in Acts, when we are called to be HIS witnesses to the ends of the earth; this was God's plan of salvation from the beginning.  The Pastor challenged us to read through the Book of Luke during this Christmas Season.

At the Women's Event, it turned out that the speaker, Danna Demetre, had a remote that worked to click through her presentation; so, I didn't have to do anything.  But, they still gave me a nice "Thank You" gift of chocolates with Bible verses stuck to them, in a decorated glass jar with a candle holder topper.  Add to that, my name was also drawn in the raffle and I received an angel ornament.  I've been telling people that this was, in my friend's words, "a hug from God."     I guess He knew I needed it.   And what stood out most in the speaker's message was the reminder that "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." (James 1:17)    Just as Jesus came at Christmas in the form of a Baby in the manger, God's gifts often do come in unexpected "wrapping".   Nevertheless, all His gifts are GOOD and PERFECT.   The speaker also talked about rubber balls (things that keep us busy) vs glass balls (things that are essential, related to our minds, bodies, and relationships).   In the midst of the busyness, it is important to focus on the priorities, as illustrated by the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42.

My other friend's Christmas CD came out; and the cover was decorated by artwork from another friend.  It's beautiful and sounds great; and will be a good Christmas gift this year.

After going to the worship meeting yesterday in preparation for Christmas; I've decided that I may take a break from running the projector this year for Christmas Eve and Christmas.  Unless they end up really needing someone, I do not plan on volunteering.

One thing I do want to note, is that in preparing non-solid foods for my mom; I've been experimenting with various "recipes".     I've made a variety of turkey, chicken, ham, and beef broth with different kinds of herbs, spices, and vegetables.   I've made pea soup and many different forms of potato-based soups (modified beef stew, potato-spinach, potato-garlic,etc).    Basically, I make the stock, drain the broth and then cook it with cubed potatoes (and spinach or garlic) till soft, and then puree.   I've also made oatmeal with fruits (banana, applesauce, etc) as well as with broth (it comes out tasting a lot like porridge).    Also, I've made Asian style soups (broth with egg-drop or extra soft tofu).     I'm considering doing a liquid diet myself; since lately, these have actually been more tasty and appealing than solid foods sometimes.

I will make more of an effort to stop and reflect on Christmas; and will take up the challenge to read through Luke (which will be interesting, after having finished Acts, as Book II of Luke).   And, I actually already have my area of focus for next year:  PRAYER.     I know that I need to have a stronger prayer life and to be able to be more articulate and comfortable in my ability to pray in corporate settings.   And, I have the Early Church believers to serve as examples of  prayer.