Zechariah

I am now looking forward to the Bible Study series on Zechariah.  It is so amazing to see what the Spirit reveals to me as I do preparations for the series.  This also ties in well with the study of Luke we just finished this year, since it is the most Messianic of the prophetic books, next to Isaiah. While it is also apocalyptic, I can focus more on the fulfilled prophecy.

It's also the longest of the Minor Prophets (i.e. the most "major"); which works well, since the study will take us through to May.

My outline will be based on the theme of "Motivation and Encouragement".  Unlike most of the other prophets, Zechariah uses positive motivation, focusing on the blessings that will be received when we are obedient as God's People; rather than on the negative things that happen for the disobedient.   And, one of the key verses from the book is one of my favorite:  "So He said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty." (Zechariah 4:6)

In the introduction, I will ask the class to consider how they would go about motivating a group of people to do what they've been neglecting.  From the outline, I would say that one summary overview of the book would be that the most effective motivation and encouragement comes from looking at what God has done and Who He is.

This series applies to me personally in that there are times when I've been in need of motivation and encouragement, and these truths will be a good reminder.  We can be motivated by reminders of lessons from the past, living for the Lord, being filled with grace when we mourn our sins, and also remembering that the LORD provides comfort & blessing, is with us, has taken away from our sins, is just, is priest and king, is faithful & true, delivers, cares & answers, is the true shepherd, is God even through trials, reigns, and that the Spirit enables.  This should encourage whenever we face repeated trials, have just gone through discipline and reproof, are not sensing God's presence, feel shame due to sin, are discouraged by inadequacies, see oppression, are disillusioned by earthly leaders, are just "going through the motions", have doubts, fear enemies, feel like He is not listening, are going through trials, or are in need of hope.

Also, I may have opportunity to utilize the new room configuration, in that we may be able to do some sharing around the tables on each area of motivation in each person's life; and then to share with the class as a whole; since, the chapters are not very long and we may occasionally have extra time.

I trust God to bless this study and to give me wisdom and guidance as I facilitate.

5-Jan:  As I've been meditating on this book, it occurred to me that one of the reasons that motivation and encouragement comes from looking to God; because it helps to take our eyes off of ourselves and our situation; and allows us to get the proper perspective.

16-Jan:  Some examples of specific prophesies from Zechariah fulfilled in the Gospels are:

•  Zech 9:9 - Triumphal Entry ("Matt 21:5" and "John 12:15")
• Zech 11:12-13 - Betrayal with 30 pieces of silver (Matt 26:14-15 & 27:5-7)
• Zech 12:10 - Pierced (John 19:34-37)
• Zech 13:7 - Shepherd Struck ("Matt 26:31")

Looking Forward

As I look forward to seeing what God will do next year; I see that He is still at work this year teaching me and helping me to grow.   Just in my area of focus on Loving God, last night's devotions stood out clearly "In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands." (1 John 5:3a)  And then, this morning as I read the verse for the day, it was a reminder of the importance of saying it:  "I love you, O Lord, my strength." (Psalm 18:1) 

And then, already He is showing me areas that I can put into practice Loving Others.   Starting with ringing in the New Year with others, I've also been invited to a fundraising dinner early in the year for Ugandan Lambs; for which I have an opportunity to invite someone and hopefully bless them as well.

29-Dec:  On this last Sunday of 2013, I praise God for His faithfulness and graciousness, still being at work in my life despite my failings.   He was able to clearly show me that I should study Zechariah in the next Bible Study series for my class.  Also, I was really  blessed with the time I was able to spend with my friend who came to worship with me today.   We can relate to each other in the things we go through and what God teaches us.  We shared about seeking the JOY of living, being Present and Alive through CHRIST.  I also realized that she is a really good choice to invite to the Ugandan Lambs fundraising dinner, and she even had a chance to meet the founders of that ministry today when she came to church.
And then yesterday, I had a chance to put into practice already what I will be focusing on next year.   My brothers and I were able to paint and put in new lights for our parents' kitchen.   It is a blessing to them, but also to me.  There is satisfaction in knowing that we are able to help and do good for others.

31-Dec:  I'm praying about this one friendship, for wisdom and perspective to know what it should look like going forward.  I never really spent a lot of time thinking about it, but, I recognize that it is not a very equitable friendship.  So, along the lines of stewardship, it may be best to step back and not devote so much time, energy, and resources; especially when it appears that it may not be fully understood or appreciated.  I sense that this person may be harboring some resentment towards me, without really accepting who I am nor realizing why the resentment may not be so justified.  I've always said that apart from sincere faith in God, one of the qualities that I most value in a friend is the ability to be open, direct, and honest.   This person has shown to be remiss in these areas.  So, while I am sad to be "letting go", it may be good in giving me back more time, energy, and resources to devote to "Loving Others".  I place this into God's Hands.
Also, it dawned on me that I can view my home remodeling as part of "Loving Others"; for, I will keep in mind what changes will enable me to host and welcome people in my home.  Today, I set up the funding which followed a decision made a few weeks ago.  I view all this as coming together as part of all that God is doing in my life, and I think the timing is now right.

3-Feb:  Having gained some additional perspective now that yet another month has gone by, I am convinced that to step back and transition from a close friendship to just a general friendship is the right thing to do in this particular situation.  What I have found is that in the last couple of months, I still sensed avoidance and those "negative feelings" towards me, yet, she still continued to ask for my help in various areas.  This last time we got together, she didn't even offer any encouragement at all; and after our time together, I became even more resolute in stepping back further.

9-Feb:  I am further convinced that it is time to let go of this friendship.   I heard that she was at church today with her friend; and she did not even bother to make the effort to even come by to say hello or to introduce me to her friend.   That does not reflect the actions of someone who is supposed to be a very close friend.

25-May:  I finally addressed the friendship head-on, and asked directly whether there was anything that was bothering her or that I needed to apologize for; and she confirmed that it wasn't anything like that.   I don't totally understand, but she cited how different we were; and then went on to say that with all the struggles she was going through, she just wanted to be alone with her self-pity.  So, that confirms to me that I can close the book on this close friendship and hereafter, we are just general friends.

28-May:  As I began evaluating this "friendship", I actually began to wonder what really sustained it.  We may have met through a mutual friend and shared a love of music.  However, when I review our old email communications, I realize that I was always the one helping, encouraging, and doing things for her; whereas, she was also apologizing for things, asking for help and prayer, and struggling with life.  I don't know why I didn't really see it, but she has always been needy and a resource vortex.  And when a "diva" attitude has now been added, it's no surprise that we have grown to be even more different.  I'm glad that circumstances have now helped me to see this clearly.   I now have a much better picture of what a truly good friendship should look like, and this is not it.   I just wonder why it took me so long to come to this realization. 

20-Jun:  Just as good friendships are a blessing, failed ones can really affect our lives negatively.   Just processing through it all has over the back of my mind since the beginning of the year, and in the last couple of weeks, I've even been having bad dreams about this person, leaving me with troubled and hurt feelings as I woke up.  I really do need to have better resolution for dealing with our "friendship" ongoing.  I place it all into God's Hands and trust that He will reveal to me the best course of action.   I am grateful that God has revealed to me that this is not a truly good and mutually beneficial friendship; and I am ready to let go of it.

7-Jul:  In keeping with my focus on Loving Others and on looking for opportunities to be a witness, one of those I've been praying for in the past 20 years, finally came to church with me on Sunday.  I'm not sure if there was more I could've steered the conversation into, but I do hope that what she was able to hear will sink in.   We did get a chance to go to Katella Deli for breakfast/brunch - the Belgian Waffle was good.  And she loved my bathroom remodel and wants the same porcelein slab for her shower.  I'm just trusting God to guide me in all that I say and do.   She did say that she was willing to come to church with me again.  May the Lord touch her heart and may His Will be done.  Amen.

11-Aug:  I learned that my friend's visa was denied last week.  It makes me wonder whether the struggles in our friendship were related in any way to possibly preparation for this.  I'm trying to identify whether I see signs of God's "Fingerprints".  I'm just grateful for all that I had learned through all this.

18-Aug:  So, my friend apologized for lack of maturity and communication in dealing with the issues from the trip.  I told her she didn't need to apologize for how she felt, but also expressed how much it hurt that she felt she couldn't talk to me about it.  I could've left it at that; but, I didn't want a friendship with issues swept under the rug of an apology that I suspected did not account for the present circumstances.  So, I went on to talk about what God has taught me about true friendship and open communication; and faced the present circumstances head on.   It was a difficult conversation, and in her words "awkward".   This morning, I wonder if I should've let it go; but, I know that I prayed about it before pursuing the conversation; so, I trust that God has a purpose in the direction it went.
As I "contemplate" it, I'm glad I did address it; because any friendship of mine needs to be genuine and open.  This one no longer was; and it would not be good stewardship of my limited resources to continue a merely tolerable co-existence.  And again, I wonder if this is related to God's plans related to her visa situation.

19-Aug:  After processing and talking it through, there are some additional insights and perspectives on the situation.  Until recently, my friend has essentially been a student all her life.   Since graduating, she has been going through this transition into the "real world" but has not yet found her "place".   With the uncertainty of her future with the visa situation, compounded by trials and challenges she has faced, she may feel a bit overwhelmed.  Add to that her issues with her dad, her own insecurities, different expectations for our trip, and our differences in personality, I ended up in the line of fire.  The other thing is that, rather than communicating her frustrations so that we'd be able to clarify any misperceptions, she just let it simmer.  Unfortunately, she has also wallowed in self-pity and depression; and thus, has not been able to effectively process, but instead sunk deeper.  I will just continue to pray for her and send her a card of encouragement.

22-Sept:  It's interesting that this "friend" has found herself in need of my help once again; and even though she hasn't been a friend to me since our trip, yet I'm still here for her when she needs it.  It doesn't feel right, and it makes me wonder if there is something I should've done differently.  I'm just not the type to person to refuse to help; but, I do somewhat feel "used".  It is interesting that as we studied Malachi where God said that He would have wanted the Temple doors shut so that no one could offer vain sacrifices, it made me wonder whether I really should put off anything that is not a true friendship; and not tolerate an empty imitation.

Links

This weekend, I experienced the truth of the saying "You are only as strong as your weakest link."   For our homeless outreach, we had everything all planned and preparations were all underway.  But, it is all not going to happen this month, mainly because of one person who was neglectful in communications and not fully invested.  There were so many who ended up being disappointed - those who looked forward to going for the very first time, because they were finally able to be off work; those who had taken time off work or had set apart time in their busy holiday schedules to fit this in; those who had prepared the message or rehearsed for the special music; those who invited friends, etc.  I'm not even sure if our "weakest link" realized what he had done or the number of people he had let down.   I was left with having to deliver the disappointing news to everyone; and am now left to consider how to better handle this ongoing.  I am seeking God's wisdom, for I need it.

However, I do trust that God is at work, even in our disappointments; and that His Timing is perfect.  We have all the blankets ready for the homeless outreach; though we will now have to wait yet another month before we can give them out.   I am thankful, though, that the blanket gift wrapping event turned out well.   About 23 people showed up to wrap the 200 hundred blankets (we put a tract in each package, and had personalized gift tags printed).   The blankets came in 6 large boxes (36 in each box about 30 pounds each). Fortunately, they were all able to fit into my car for transport.    It is nice that we were able to use the time, not only to wrap gifts for the needy, but also to fellowship with one another.  We met right after class, but was still able to set things up such that we have 4 tables with people wrapping, and were able to provide food:

• Turkey wrap rolls
• Mexican Salad (red leaf lettuce greens, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell pepper, black bean and corn with lime juice and cilantro) with Jalapeno Ranch or Lime Vinagrette dressing
• Chips
• Taquitos, Chimichungas, and Mini Tacos
• Cookies and mini chocolates
• Drinks (sodas & juices)

It ended up being almost like a class Christmas party (with a purpose).

So, having all the blankets gift-wrapped, message ready, music prepared, and people lined up - it really is a let down to find out that we are not going to be able to serve until next month.  It makes me wonder what I could've done differently to avoid this.   May God help me to learn and grow through this experience, to be a better leader.  Amen.

However, it is our link to God that enables to have the hope that He will work all things together for good, no matter what.

Update:  While it takes only one weak link for the chain to break, it turns out that it only takes one really strong link to help pull it back together again.  So, our homeless outreach is back on for this month; and we will have a chance to give out the blankets as planned.
The question then becomes, whether it is better to just bypass the weak or broken link; or to try and strengthen or fix it?

This experience made me re-evaluate one of my other friendships.  I realized that it was actually more of a drain on my energy and resources than a benefit; so, it is not so equitable.  I'm starting to "pull back", and I need to be in prayer about whether I should.  It also dawned on me that this person actually makes me to feel not so good about myself, and I do not need additional discouragement in my life.   This is contrasted by other people, like in my church, who really seem to appreciate and respect me.

26-Dec:  So we did serve yesterday.  The music was great and the message seemed to have went well.   It was just that the numbers were lower.  We were told that because it's been so cold, many were taken to the winter shelter of the rescue mission instead.   Still, we were able to serve large portions and so, were able to serve most of the food.  We gave out about half of the blankets.   The rest I took over to be given out to the rescue mission winter shelter.    I just pray that God will use all of this for His purposes and glory.

Reflections of '13

As I take some time to look back on 2013, following are the things that stand out:

• I focused on the area of "Loving God", and what I learned is that the best way to Love God is to learn from His example of Love.  He is Love, and I should Love HIM the way He loves me - to give Him my all.  I'm looking forward to focusing on the second greatest commandment next year on "Loving Others"
• From reading through the Bible, I really enjoyed seeing threads woven through that I had not really seen before.  The Jan 9th blog entry also records many of the lessons I had learned through devotions.
• I finally went on the cruise to Hawaii as my friend and I planned.  It was a nice get-away and was very enjoyable.  There were some memories made that are memorable.
• The Lord drew me to think and learn about some new perspectives and considerations related to singleness and marriage.   I went on a couple of blind dates this year.   I'm glad I went through the experiences (I think); but, neither were totally what I hoped for.  I also gained some new understandings through reading the book I bought.   My thorn is still on the altar, and I don't know what the Lord has in store for me; but, I do trust in HIM.
• Also, I learned more about being a faithful steward.  Going through the estate planning process caused me to really evaluate how I am handling all the resources that God has placed in my care.   There are some changes in store.....

Overall, it was a good year.  Though there was not anything majorly noteworthy or new, I still grew and learned.   I also feel like I continued to be a faithful servant.  I believe that I have taught His Word faithfully, touched some lives, and helped others.  I cling to the Truths in His Word.

End of Chapter

Today marks the end of a chapter in my life.   This was my last Elder Selection Committee meeting for this past three year term.  It was such a privilege to serve on the committee and I am so grateful that I gained the experience of seeing how the Holy Spirit was at work in guiding the selection of leaders for our church.

In tonight's meeting, we selected the two people who would be replacing me and the other person who started when I did.   I think that these were two very qualified and experienced candidates who will serve well on the committee.

As I look back, I feel that I have been able to contribute to the committee through writing all the elder bios and serving as secretary to take meeting minutes.   Also, one candidate I had nominated eventually became an elder; and I think that I've been able to ask some pretty good questions during the interviews.  So, I leave, feeling that I have done my best and that I have served faithfully.

30-May:  The current Elder Selection Committee chairman encouraged me yesterday when he said that I was missed, especially in the area of taking care of the minutes of the meetings.  It's nice to be affirmed that I made useful contributions when I served.

Christmas'13

Christmas is fast approaching.  As I am busily trying to keep up the rapid pace, I feel the need to stop and reflect on CHRIST, the true reason for this season.   Even taking a break from leading Bible Study makes me feel like I haven't been seriously in the Word at this time.  I have taken time to pray, and being at church is a good reminder (although, it also adds to the busy-ness).  I did want to note that I was really glad to see is how my class was able to glean solid truths out of the lesson that was being taught. 

I've been preparing for the COA outreach, with organizing everything for the blankets (purchasing, wrapping, transport, lunch, etc).   We're in the midst of the selection committee process.   There are family things going on; and I'm hosting our family Christmas dinner.

Last night was our Community Group Christmas Party.  It was, as usual, so much fun - we have such a good group of people.   During time of sharing, some told stories of "wonder" from their experiences.   White Elephant is always fun - I got a nice tea set this time.   Then, we did Christmas carol pictionary.   It was a great time of fellowship.

I've wrapped my gifts; but, still need to do cards.   I also need to arrange to get-together to give the gifts.  And, there is still "normal" responsibilities and obligations, including AV duties.  This is still one of my favorite times of the year; and I do try to ensure that what I am busy with has eternal purposefulness.

 20-Dec:   It actually felt like I was finally ready for Christmas when I sent off my last card yesterday.  I do still have the COA outreach blanket wrapping get-together and my family Christmas get-together; but, those are all planned already.  They just need to be implemented.  Before New Year's, I do want to stop and review all that I've learned and grown through this year.

24-Dec:  It's Christmas Eve.  Our church had wonderful services this evening, and they were both really well attended.  The music was good - we had handbell choir, choir, violin, band, and brass band.
But, as I reflect on Christmas this year, there are two passages that stand out:
"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."  (John 1:14)
and
"Christ Jesus:
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.  And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!  Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."  (Philippians 2:5b-11)
Also, when I had a chance to wish my Pastor and Assistant Pastor a Merry Christmas, they in turn  encouraged me in my teaching and serving.   That means a lot to me coming from two people who I admire and respect much; and who I follow as examples of leadership.

26-Dec:  Christmas was nice.   It was a fairly quiet time spent with family.   I did spend all day cooking, and the food turned out fairly well:

• Kalua Pork - I slow-cooked ~5lb pork butt for 10 hours with about 1 Tbsp each of Alaea Salt and liquid smoke.  I then added some more liquid smoke towards the end, when I removed the skin from pork butt.  It's important to remember to oil the slow-cooker first before starting.  The meat was soft and tasty, especially when served with the juices
• Spinach Quiche - I used half-and-half rather than whipping cream.   It has a soft texture (not sure if the whipping cream would make it more firm).   It was fine though, and better than using just milk.
• Fish Hot Pot - This ended up being served as a soup and was good for a cold evening.  The flavors were really good (stir fried the fish, mushroom and celery separately and added tofu, fish balls, and imitation crab meat).
• Chicken w/Green Bean - I marinated the chicken with cornstarch, sweet soy, and sesame oil.   It browned fairly well, and stayed fairly moist.  When cooking the green bean w/garlic, I kept adding broth to ensure that it stayed soft and didn't dry out
• Sweet Potatoes - Boiled, mashed, and added honey from the Big Island, along with cinnamon and nutmeg.   Place the marshmallows in the nice round pattern before browning
• Asian Cucumber Salad - Diced cucumbers and mixed with green onion, rice vinegar, sugar, and island soya sauce
• Cranberry Bread - Used fresh chopped cranberries - it was quite good   (I had also tried to make cinnamon raisin bread - but it didn't rise so well and tasted old, so I tossed it out)
• Cranberry-Strawberry-Pomegranate-Apple Cider - Started with juices, then added real apples, cinnamon sticks, oranges w/cloves, and nutmeg.   As I continued to boil it, it seemed to thicken and get sweeter - probably works better in a crockpot
• For dessert, I baked a pumpkin pie; but also made an apple puff pastry.  Cut puff pastry into thirds, put apple slices w/brown sugar on top and baked at 400deg for about 18min.   It was easy and not bad; but, I probably wouldn't make it again.

Christmas Concert

Last night was the FISH Christmas concert.  I was not very familiar with the line-up, except for Brandon Heath; but, it was nice that there were a lot of people there to listen.

City Harbor has a lot of room to grow; and Rush of Fools was okay.   I was actually impressed with Colton Dixon.   I did not watch his season of American Idol; but, I had heard his song "You Are" before and liked it, not knowing who the singer was.  He is talented, interesting to listen to, and really played the keyboards enthusiastically.  And he also seemed comfortable sharing about God and praying.  Brandon Heath shared that he got engaged in New York recently.   I've heard several of his songs before.    However, overall, I felt that even though the venue for the concert was a church; I didn't really feel like any of the artists really brought us into worship.   Colton tried and the last song when we all sang "Silent Night" together came close.   So, that was somewhat disappointing.

But, it was nice of the FISH to put this concert together for their listeners; and I definitely cannot complain about the price (can't beat free).  I'm just glad that I had a chance to spend some time with friends listening to some Christmas music.

Hawaii

My Hawaiian Cruise was a really nice 15-day get-away.   It may have been a little too long to be away from email and work; but, I'm glad I had a chance to do so.  There were many great memories and highlights from the trip.

It was  nice to be able to visit Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island again.  And, going on shore excursions allowed me to learn some new facts I had not known before.   As usual, the beauty of God's creation is clear - in the ocean, waterfalls, mountains, canyons, rain forests, etc.  This time around, my favorite island was Maui.   I really liked the Heritage Park, with all the buildings representing the various cultures that came to Hawaii (Portugese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Polynesian, etc).   And the Maui Tropical Plantation was impressive, with all the different types of plants and fruits they were able to grow there.

On the cruise, I enjoyed being able to learn to play the ukulele, and even to play it as part of a show with hula dancers as well.   I also really liked the Zumba Fitness class.   It is a fun way to stay in shape.   And, the food was really good also.  I was also glad to once again hear David Klinkenberg perform.

I had a chance to do devotions daily; and to consider what my next class Bible study series will be.   I'm leaning towards Zachariah and Habakkuk.   I even went jogging on the top deck area a few times.

I did get sick in the beginning; and it took me several days to get "caught up" with mail and email when I got back.   But, overall, it was a really good trip!