The history, the tradition, the pageantry(?)...the brutality and sincerity of this particular rivalry has led to the necessity of a "neutral" site. EverBank Field in Jacksonville, Florida, will be half Blue and Orange and half Red and Black tomorrow. The spectacle is indeed interesting to behold. When I was growing up, I had never fully experienced the UGA vs UF game. I don't even remember watching it on TV when I was little. I'm sure I did in high school. When I became a freshman, volunteer equipment manager at UGA in June of 2004 I was excited to be a part of the team I had watched since my childhood. Putting on the red and black (mainly gray in practice) gave me a swell of pride. That oval "G" always caught my eye in a special way. I knew that Florida was our most hated rival. Those jean short-wearing, Gator-chomping, mullet-wearing individuals of the swamp were subhuman to us. The only problem is...we had won maybe 1 game in 20 years. I honestly haven't taken the time to calculate how many times we've beaten Florida in my lifetime. I'm sure it's less than 10, and maybe even less than 5? I'll look it up later. All I knew is, Georgia good, Florida bad. My freshman year, I did not travel, so I remember watching Georgia beat Florida on TV in my living room at home w/ a nice spread of barbecue. It was a win, and I was not present, but since I was still counted a member of the team, I count that in my record against Florida :)
In 2005, it all changed for me. I was a full manager, and I could travel with the team. My role on game days was not as vital as it was in practices, but the games were the perks for me. The games were vacations. They were business trips, but still vacations. All I had to do was show up. I was one of the 4 managers who stayed back to travel with the team while the other 8 left Thursday night to ride the bus to the game site. The "Thursday Crew" considered themselves the elite, but I let them have it. Truly, nothing beat the "Friday Crew". Here's my average Florida trip: On Friday I would be excused from class so that I could go to the equipment room and hand out the players' travel suits. The Thursday Crew would be simultaneously setting up at the away stadium, and if they had forgotten anything they would call us to bring with us on the plane. We would close the equipment room at noon, and any suits that had not been picked up would be taken to the buses. I would park my truck at the IM Fields, and leave it there until I returned. We had 4 buses total. The Offense would lead the way on the first bus, followed by the Defense on the second bus. The 3rd bus would be the Specialists, extra players who were able to dress for that particular game, and us managers and support staff. The 4th bus would be the AA staff and friends. We would have a police escort from Athens to Atlanta. Now, there would be food (usually sub sandwiches) waiting for us at the buses, so that we could eat on the way to Atlanta. The buses would drive straight onto the tarmac, and we would have to go through our own private security station (like we would blow up our own plane!). Yeah, we had our own Delta jet, no big deal. Now, once we got on the plane, in each seat would be a bag of food. Usually a nice sandwich, an apple or banana, some really good cheese, crackers, etc. Remember, we had just eaten sub sandwiches on the bus, but here is another feast. We would fly from Atlanta to wherever we were going (for this story, St. Augustine). We would land at St. Augustine's small airport, and bus from the airport to the World Golf Resort and Village. The main campus is pretty isolated, and surrounded by golf courses. The hotel was massive, and very tall. They had a series of shops circling a small lake, and a few restaurants. The biggest restaurant was Caddyshack, where I ate every year for dinner Friday night. Since we were really isolated, cab rides were expensive. Only once did I leave the resort, and that was 2007 where I went with a female trainer friend of mine into Jacksonville. We had dinner at Caddyshack before leaving, then we went to a theatre in JAX to see 30 Days of Night. It was an interesting movie. In 2005, 2006 and 2008 I just stayed on the resort grounds. Next to the hotel was the Golf Hall of Fame, which was also a massive building. The Hall of Fame also had an IMAX theatre, but I never saw any movies there. I would always walk a lap or two around the lake because the weather was always nice. In 2005 (I think) I was able to take UGA VI for a walk around the parking lot. I loved that dog. He's my favorite UGA. So, after playing in the resort it would be time to sleep. I had a different roommate on the road every year, and the rooms were very nice. On Saturday morning we'd wake up early. All of us managers, trainers, video crew, support staff, etc. would board one bus to make the drive to JAX. We'd get to the stadium about 5hrs before the game to set up. The Thursday Crew had already set up the basic layout of the locker room, so we just went around and taped the jerseys to the linemen's shoulder pads (it helped prevent Holding), shined the shoes and helmets (yes, we shined them), and made sure all of the helmet decals were looking proper. The hardest part of the helmet was the bones on the back since they were so small and hard to align. My job on game day was to man the equipment trunks and hand out wristbands, gloves, eye black, etc. Anything that the players forgot, or needed more of, we had. Most of our away game truck was filled with extra, backup equipment. Where we placed limitations on issued equipment during the week, on game day it was a free-for-all. The team would arrive about 2hrs before kickoff, so for those 2hrs I was very busy. During the game itself, I would stand by our on-field equipment trunk in case of any equipment emergency. I admit, during the game I was pretty useless LoL. Since I was standing behind a wall of players and coaches, I could not see the field. I had to watch every game on the stadium's JumboTron LoL. In 2005 we went into the game undefeated, but DJ Shockley had been injured the game before against Arkansas, so we were hurting. We lost a heartbreaker, but went on to win the SEC Championship. In 2006, well I don't really remember 2006. In 2007, we danced :) I can detail that story in person if you want to know. That was a great day. In 2008, we were confident going in, but Florida was riled up from the year before, and we lost pretty badly. Say what you will, but now that he's graduated I am a Tim Tebow fan. I really appreciate his ministry, and I pray he stays true to the Word. After the game, we would pack up the locker room and equipment truck as quickly as we could. Usually, we Friday Crew would have to shower, change, and board the buses with the team quickly, so our post-game work would be minimal. We would bus to the JAX airport, go through another security checkpoint, and board our plane. On the plane we were met by another food bag, and Chick-fil-A sandwiches and nuggets! (Y'all seriously wonder why I'm a big guy!). Win or lose, it was always delicious. We would land in Atlanta, and still have a long bus ride back to Athens. We would get into Athens late at night, and I would get in my truck, go back to ECV where I lived, and go to sleep. I would keep my phone on though because the equipment truck would get back about 3am, and they would call the Friday Crew in to help unload. So, I would be able to really sleep by 4am that Sunday morning. I didn't go to church all through college, and that was one of the reasons why. I remember in 2005, my friend and I opted to sleep in the locker room, and around midnight some UGA police officers woke us up. I guess they thought we were vagrants, but I explained our situation, and they let us go back to sleep.
It was a side of UGA Football that most people never see or care about. Needless to say, I am one spoiled individual LoL. After being paid to go on trips for 4 years, I really have no desire to travel anymore. I went to a few road games in 2009, and after that I really decided not to travel LoL. People ask me now, "Hey! Are you going to Florida?". When I say "No." I get a variety of odd looks and responses. The Georgia/Florida game truly is a religious event. When I tell people that Florida is no longer my #1 rival, I am mocked. I'm amazed at how personally a lot of Georgia fans take this game. After a final record of 2-3 against Florida, I have a true respect for them. I see a true difference in my fandom, and that of a regular fan. I have shed blood, sweat and tears for the Georgia Bulldogs. I will always bleed Red and Black. I have rings and Varsity Letters to serve as a reminder of my service. I have connections, friendships, scrapbooks, etc. that will last me a lifetime. It was not just a spectacle for me. The games were a small percentage of my involvement, actually. I knew the people. I formed relationships. Fans will talk about recruiting, or individual players, or numbers, stats, etc. They struggle and cling to their identity. The average fan is the reason why UGA Football exists. The average fan is the reason I had a job for 5 years. Fans make college football what it is. But, at the end of the day, fan opinion rises with a win and falls with a loss. An individual will be praised one day, and persecuted the next. A coach is a hero with a win, and a demon with a loss. It is a very cutthroat profession, and I have sympathy for them. Nobody cares about a manager. A manager's name is never in the paper for a loss, or a win. Nobody credits a flawlessly-timed Tuesday practice with a victory over Florida. Where it was my identity for 5 years, UGA Football is now just something I watch on Saturday, if I watch it at all. This Saturday I'm faced with the prospect that I will not watch or listen to the Georgia/Florida game. When I mention that, people say I'm crazy, but I'm actually okay with it. I'll be spending that time with good friends at a place I love rather than sitting alone in my apartment in front of my TV. I do not share in the religious fervor of the thousands of people who will descend, and already have descended, on JAX and its South Georgia neighbors this weekend. It truly is a holiday that is planned for and pursued as much as Christmas or Thanksgiving. When it boils down to it, I have no soapbox to stand on. Truthfully, I just don't want to bother driving down there, finding a hotel, sitting in the stands, winning/losing, driving home, etc. when for 4 years I had the behind-the-scenes, all-expense-paid experience. Yes, I am spoiled and lazy. That being said, Go Dawgs! Beat Florida! I'll catch the highlights Saturday night.
For the Kingdom,
Stuart
Friday, October 28, 2011
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Halloween
I've read a lot of articles, recommended by spiritual leaders in my life, about Halloween. Every year the focus shifts to Halloween, then to Christmas, etc. It seems like I hear the same things every year. I, personally, hate being scared. I don't watch Horror movies, or attend haunted houses, etc. So, here's my thought process about Halloween.
It's called a pagan holiday. For those of us raised fundamentalist, pagan = evil. However, I have not seen a difference in believer participation vs. non-believer participation. I speak from my own experience, so I do not claim to perceive the whole. Some believers I know condemn, rebuke, and refuse to participate in Halloween festivities. That is fine. In my family, the celebration of Halloween has always occurred. I remember even dressing up as Batman when I was young (3?) at my grandparents' house in Arkansas. My grandparents are very devout believers. Halloween was always scary to me, but never evil scary. I would put on a costume and run around my neighborhood with my friends. I would fill up a bag with candy, and be happy. We'd eat that candy for months afterward, and usually have to throw some away. If we ate our breakfast fully we could have 1 piece, lunch 2, and dinner 3. That's how it went in my household when I was young. The only costumes I remember were Batman, Bugs Bunny, Karate Kid (I was in karate), and I think I was a soldier one year too. I remember my brother and sister being Power Rangers.
In high school we had "Hell House". It was a haunted house, but it was scary because it was real. We pulled back the curtains, and showed how Satan and his influence can creep into our everyday lives. The journey followed a car accident, a teenage couple getting pregnant, a teen committing suicide by hanging (possibly the scariest thing I can imagine), a failed abortion that killed the mother, etc. At the end of the horrors, comes a scene in Heaven where God's on the throne, and judging the two characters. The girl who aborted the baby had repented and believed, so she got to go into Heaven (a room in our student center that was brightly-lit). The boyfriend, who had gotten the girl pregnant and then killed himself, had not repented, and proceeded to accuse God of being unfair, not present, etc. It was a very well-acted rant, if I remember correctly. Rationales, excuses, etc. were flung at God, but in an earlier scene at a funeral of the friend who died in the car wreck, the Gospel was presented. That's where the girl repented and the boy hardened his heart. So, he had a chance, and it was his own fault. He was dismissed into Hell. Hell was our hallway in our student center. It was pitch black, covered in black plastic, with space heaters set to ungodly levels. There was a scream track playing as well. It was a pretty haunting experience. I don't remember if I dressed up or not during Halloween in high school. More than likely, I didn't.
In college, I remember going to a Halloween party my freshman year with a group from my hall. I was the designated driver. I dressed up as a Football manager (original, right?). The party was at a Senior's house, and there was alcohol in abundance. We arrived later, and my group descended into drunkenness. The night ended w/ me carrying a passed out girl from my hall to the car and putting her in the passenger's seat. We had 5 people crammed into 3 seats in the back of my roommate's small Saturn. Then, drunk Senior guys surrounded the car and wouldn't let us leave because someone had stolen the tip jar money, and they were accusing someone in my car. Everyone but me was drunk. I finally got an opening and hit the gas. The Seniors chased me down the street. No joke. When we got back to O-House, I had to carry my passed out friend to her room. So, basically, it was not a fun evening. I don't remember other Halloween festivities because I was on the Football team, and that was Florida weekend. My first Halloween back as a free man, I wore all of my UT gear (solid orange), and went downtown to see the festivities with some friends. I wore UT stuff because I couldn't think of anything more evil. Then that next year I was a ninja. Now it is this year, and I doubt I will participate at all.
Halloween provides a chance to dress in costume and be someone/something else. What I've come to think about is why? Why do I want to pretend to be someone/something else? I'm 26, so knocking on a random door and asking for candy doesn't work anymore. Do I really want to pretend to be something I'm not? Do I care? I'd like to say that there is some deeply spiritual reason for my non-participation this year, but really I'm just lazy and I don't care anymore. Honestly, all holidays have lost their lustre with me. All of the (for lack of a better word) magic has gone out of them for me. Call me crazy, or lazy, and you're probably right.
But, that's enough about Halloween as a holiday. Here is the real frightening truth. Those of us who have committed our lives to following after Jesus have a very real, and very violent enemy. Since my Sophomore year of high school I have become increasingly more aware of the existence of evil. By the grace of God, many lies have been exposed to me. Also by the grace of God, I have been given a boldness to call them out. On my own, the weakest demon could kill me. Thankfully it's not my duty to pull out a stick and take on a demon. That war is already won. My physical body cannot take on a spiritual being. The war we are fighting is against the lies and the distortions that exist through sin. Satan is the enemy figurehead, but really he's no more powerful than the other demons since they're all fallen angels. Satan loves Halloween because it's the one night a year where we can reinforce the image of him as a horned, red figure w/ a pitchfork. He doesn't want us to perceive him as he truly is, which is the most beautiful angel that God created. Yes, people, he's still beautiful to behold at first. That's why temptation is so enticing at first. It's only when we peel away the layers, and hold it up next to the Truth of God that we see him for what he really is. The lies become exposed, and we are horrified. If we saw the horrific reality at the start, we'd avoid the lies like a plague, but we don't. Satan gives us a 1-degree shift followed by another 1-degree shift until we realize later how off course we are. I see the lies that lead a person to take their own life. The lie that there is no hope left. That horrifies me. The truth is there is Hope in Jesus. He heals and restores. Satan would lie to you and say He doesn't do that, but He does. There is Truth that the lies cannot prevail against.
There is a darkness. Sometimes even our light cannot prevail against it because it's so overwhelming. There are situations that we as Christians need to avoid. I'm not saying that celebrating Halloween is one of them, but choose how you celebrate. This Halloween will not find me walking into a coven simply because I have the Holy Spirit (though, if I were led I would go and see what God does). Those of you who know me, know I focus on spiritual warfare. That does not mean, I charge the darkness with a stick. I have realized that the dark realities exist to drive me closer to the Light. Only in Jesus is there victory. He has already prevailed. The battles and skirmishes here on earth are not won because I am awesome, but because the enemy can't stand up to Him. Even pastors that I look up to in my life aren't awesome enough to win one-on-one against the weakest demon. God is the only Light that can beat the dark dominion of Satan here on Earth. We as Christians are indeed called to be lights, but we are called to carry the Light. On our own we couldn't strike a spark. We carry the Light against this dark world. As I continue to read Scripture, I pray that God allows me to continue to be bold. I pray that He makes His Truth crystal clear to me. Though the world may come against me, I pray I stand on His Word alone. I am calling Satan out for what he truly is. I will call him on his lies. Sure, I'll get knocked off my feet, but God is the Victor, not me. I just get to be a small part of His Kingdom.
So, all that to say this. Be safe this Halloween. Think about who or what you are glorifying. There is an enemy. Don't even ask him to dance. Don't dabble or toy with it because you think you can get away with it one night a year. It's not cool or cute. Evil doesn't just exist one day a year. If you want to dress up and get candy, make sure you share some with me LoL. If you claim Christ, as I do, gird up and make war daily. Fall is a beautiful time of year. Fall is my favorite time of year, actually. Harvests, etc. should be celebrated. God should be glorified for His provision. Sure, we have Thanksgiving in America, but even on Halloween the beauty of His creation in Fall should bring Him the glory. Remember, we're at war. I'm here for you if you need me.
For the Kingdom,
Stuart
It's called a pagan holiday. For those of us raised fundamentalist, pagan = evil. However, I have not seen a difference in believer participation vs. non-believer participation. I speak from my own experience, so I do not claim to perceive the whole. Some believers I know condemn, rebuke, and refuse to participate in Halloween festivities. That is fine. In my family, the celebration of Halloween has always occurred. I remember even dressing up as Batman when I was young (3?) at my grandparents' house in Arkansas. My grandparents are very devout believers. Halloween was always scary to me, but never evil scary. I would put on a costume and run around my neighborhood with my friends. I would fill up a bag with candy, and be happy. We'd eat that candy for months afterward, and usually have to throw some away. If we ate our breakfast fully we could have 1 piece, lunch 2, and dinner 3. That's how it went in my household when I was young. The only costumes I remember were Batman, Bugs Bunny, Karate Kid (I was in karate), and I think I was a soldier one year too. I remember my brother and sister being Power Rangers.
In high school we had "Hell House". It was a haunted house, but it was scary because it was real. We pulled back the curtains, and showed how Satan and his influence can creep into our everyday lives. The journey followed a car accident, a teenage couple getting pregnant, a teen committing suicide by hanging (possibly the scariest thing I can imagine), a failed abortion that killed the mother, etc. At the end of the horrors, comes a scene in Heaven where God's on the throne, and judging the two characters. The girl who aborted the baby had repented and believed, so she got to go into Heaven (a room in our student center that was brightly-lit). The boyfriend, who had gotten the girl pregnant and then killed himself, had not repented, and proceeded to accuse God of being unfair, not present, etc. It was a very well-acted rant, if I remember correctly. Rationales, excuses, etc. were flung at God, but in an earlier scene at a funeral of the friend who died in the car wreck, the Gospel was presented. That's where the girl repented and the boy hardened his heart. So, he had a chance, and it was his own fault. He was dismissed into Hell. Hell was our hallway in our student center. It was pitch black, covered in black plastic, with space heaters set to ungodly levels. There was a scream track playing as well. It was a pretty haunting experience. I don't remember if I dressed up or not during Halloween in high school. More than likely, I didn't.
In college, I remember going to a Halloween party my freshman year with a group from my hall. I was the designated driver. I dressed up as a Football manager (original, right?). The party was at a Senior's house, and there was alcohol in abundance. We arrived later, and my group descended into drunkenness. The night ended w/ me carrying a passed out girl from my hall to the car and putting her in the passenger's seat. We had 5 people crammed into 3 seats in the back of my roommate's small Saturn. Then, drunk Senior guys surrounded the car and wouldn't let us leave because someone had stolen the tip jar money, and they were accusing someone in my car. Everyone but me was drunk. I finally got an opening and hit the gas. The Seniors chased me down the street. No joke. When we got back to O-House, I had to carry my passed out friend to her room. So, basically, it was not a fun evening. I don't remember other Halloween festivities because I was on the Football team, and that was Florida weekend. My first Halloween back as a free man, I wore all of my UT gear (solid orange), and went downtown to see the festivities with some friends. I wore UT stuff because I couldn't think of anything more evil. Then that next year I was a ninja. Now it is this year, and I doubt I will participate at all.
Halloween provides a chance to dress in costume and be someone/something else. What I've come to think about is why? Why do I want to pretend to be someone/something else? I'm 26, so knocking on a random door and asking for candy doesn't work anymore. Do I really want to pretend to be something I'm not? Do I care? I'd like to say that there is some deeply spiritual reason for my non-participation this year, but really I'm just lazy and I don't care anymore. Honestly, all holidays have lost their lustre with me. All of the (for lack of a better word) magic has gone out of them for me. Call me crazy, or lazy, and you're probably right.
But, that's enough about Halloween as a holiday. Here is the real frightening truth. Those of us who have committed our lives to following after Jesus have a very real, and very violent enemy. Since my Sophomore year of high school I have become increasingly more aware of the existence of evil. By the grace of God, many lies have been exposed to me. Also by the grace of God, I have been given a boldness to call them out. On my own, the weakest demon could kill me. Thankfully it's not my duty to pull out a stick and take on a demon. That war is already won. My physical body cannot take on a spiritual being. The war we are fighting is against the lies and the distortions that exist through sin. Satan is the enemy figurehead, but really he's no more powerful than the other demons since they're all fallen angels. Satan loves Halloween because it's the one night a year where we can reinforce the image of him as a horned, red figure w/ a pitchfork. He doesn't want us to perceive him as he truly is, which is the most beautiful angel that God created. Yes, people, he's still beautiful to behold at first. That's why temptation is so enticing at first. It's only when we peel away the layers, and hold it up next to the Truth of God that we see him for what he really is. The lies become exposed, and we are horrified. If we saw the horrific reality at the start, we'd avoid the lies like a plague, but we don't. Satan gives us a 1-degree shift followed by another 1-degree shift until we realize later how off course we are. I see the lies that lead a person to take their own life. The lie that there is no hope left. That horrifies me. The truth is there is Hope in Jesus. He heals and restores. Satan would lie to you and say He doesn't do that, but He does. There is Truth that the lies cannot prevail against.
There is a darkness. Sometimes even our light cannot prevail against it because it's so overwhelming. There are situations that we as Christians need to avoid. I'm not saying that celebrating Halloween is one of them, but choose how you celebrate. This Halloween will not find me walking into a coven simply because I have the Holy Spirit (though, if I were led I would go and see what God does). Those of you who know me, know I focus on spiritual warfare. That does not mean, I charge the darkness with a stick. I have realized that the dark realities exist to drive me closer to the Light. Only in Jesus is there victory. He has already prevailed. The battles and skirmishes here on earth are not won because I am awesome, but because the enemy can't stand up to Him. Even pastors that I look up to in my life aren't awesome enough to win one-on-one against the weakest demon. God is the only Light that can beat the dark dominion of Satan here on Earth. We as Christians are indeed called to be lights, but we are called to carry the Light. On our own we couldn't strike a spark. We carry the Light against this dark world. As I continue to read Scripture, I pray that God allows me to continue to be bold. I pray that He makes His Truth crystal clear to me. Though the world may come against me, I pray I stand on His Word alone. I am calling Satan out for what he truly is. I will call him on his lies. Sure, I'll get knocked off my feet, but God is the Victor, not me. I just get to be a small part of His Kingdom.
So, all that to say this. Be safe this Halloween. Think about who or what you are glorifying. There is an enemy. Don't even ask him to dance. Don't dabble or toy with it because you think you can get away with it one night a year. It's not cool or cute. Evil doesn't just exist one day a year. If you want to dress up and get candy, make sure you share some with me LoL. If you claim Christ, as I do, gird up and make war daily. Fall is a beautiful time of year. Fall is my favorite time of year, actually. Harvests, etc. should be celebrated. God should be glorified for His provision. Sure, we have Thanksgiving in America, but even on Halloween the beauty of His creation in Fall should bring Him the glory. Remember, we're at war. I'm here for you if you need me.
For the Kingdom,
Stuart
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Revelation 1-3
I need to start off by saying that Revelation is very confusing because there is no apparent timetable set up, and there is a lot of symbolic imagery. That being said, I do not claim to be any scholar on the subject, and I probably won't cover the entire book. However, I'm interested in the first three chapters that contain letters from Jesus, written by John, to seven churches in Asia (or modern day West Turkey).
Ephesus (Rev 2:1-7): Jesus commends the Ephesians for their doctrinal vigilance and endurance. I know several people who are doctrinally strong at my church. Far stronger than I am. Jesus points out to them that they have lost their first love, which is Him. He pretty much says He likes what they're doing for Him, but He misses the relationship He had with them. He tells them to remember the relationship, repent for losing sight of it, and to do the works they did at the beginning. To me, I read it as a call to do good works because I love Him, not because I feel like I have to please Him. Works do not save us (Ephesians 2:8-9). Funny how Paul wrote a letter to the Ephesians talking about works, and here Jesus does the same thing. Good works are not bad since they are evidence of a relationship with Him (or they should be), but Jesus does not want me to forget about His grace and love. Any good works that I do should be flowing from Him through me. I am not a righteous person. None of us are. He is righteous, and if we believe then He lives in us, and from Him all good things flow. Jesus tells them that if they don't repent then He will remove their lampstand, which is symbolic for Him taking away their witness. They will cease to be effective despite their good works. That sucks. I do not want to be insignificant. However, if they conquer and endure until the end then He will allow them to eat from the Tree of Life in Paradise (Eden). Adam and Eve (and through them all of us) were cut off from the Tree of Life by a cherubim with a flaming sword. These Ephesians get to regain Paradise! That would be awesome. I'm a junkie for historical stuff, or experiencing things not everyone gets to experience. Walking into Eden and taking a bite of that fruit seems like an awesome reward!
Smyrna (Rev 2:8-11): This is bleak, yet awesomely hopeful at the same time. In these letters, Jesus opens with an introduction of Himself, a commendation, a rebuke, a solution to the problem, and consequences (good and bad) of their choices after the fact. Jesus does not have a rebuke for Smyrna (yay, right?). Instead he tells them that they will face persecution from the "synagogue of Satan", and that they should endure unto death. He introduced Himself as the One who died and came back to life. He shows that He is Life, and He gives life. He tells them to endure, and they will be given the crown of life, and will not be hurt by the second (eternal) death. This kinda sucks. You get a letter saying, "hey, you're going to die. It's not going to get any better on earth." But, at the same time, Jesus Himself is writing you a letter telling you to hold on because He's got you for eternity. Jesus knew He came to be crucified. He knew He was sacrificing Himself for the sins of the world (my sins), but He also knew He would gain Heaven. He's pretty much giving Smyrna the same encouragement God the Father gave Him. That's pretty cool. I don't want to be told that my life is going to suck more and more with each day, but having Jesus Himself tell me He's waiting for me might give me some hope LoL.
Pergamum (Rev 2:12-17): John describes Jesus as having a double-edged sword coming out of His mouth in his vision. This is where Jesus says He will use it. The church in Pergamum has been holding fast to His teaching, and they have been warring against false teachings. They have not denied their faith. However, there were some who gave in to false teachings, and Jesus rebukes them. He calls them to repent and return to His Truth. He is the Truth. Period. He tells them if they do not repent He will wage war on them with the sword of His mouth. Lies cannot stand up against Truth. I get the image of a debate where He just cuts them all down with Truth. The sword is a powerful image that is used elsewhere in Scripture to describe the Word of God, or Bible (Isaiah 49:2; Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12; and Revelation 19:15). So, basically, Jesus will wage war. I don't want to be His enemy. I will lose! If Pergamum repents then Jesus will give them a white stone with their new name on it, and hidden manna. When I first read this I was like "big whoop", but when I read the explanation, I realized that the hidden manna symbolizes the undefiled food. The "good stuff". God's personal supply. A white stone was given to the winners of competitions and games by the host. That stone was their meal ticket, their invitation to the banquet with the host after the games. So, basically, Jesus is saying that if they endure until the end, they will get to party with Him in his VIP lounge. That's pretty cool when I think about it. I'd like to have exclusive access to Him.
Thyatira (Rev 2:18-29): Thyatira gets props for its good works. However, Jesus points out that in their growing love, they are beginning to lose their discernment and allow in things like sexual immorality. This is an example of a "there is grace, so do whatever you want." scenario. Jesus points out that that is not the case. Yes, there is grace and love, but not to the point of sinning. The grace and love are meant to keep us from sinning, not allow it. I love how Jesus just echoes Paul yet again. I also love that these letters are short. Jesus does not need to reason with them. He is the Truth. Period. He's very concise. "I like this, I don't like this, do this to change, if you don't then I will do this, and if you do then I will give you this." It's very straightforward. Jesus warns that if they do not repent and seek discernment then He will give them each according to their works. Since all of our good works are as filthy rags to Him in the first place (Isaiah 64:6), we're not going to get to be with Him. Our salvation does not come from the fruit, but the root. The seed of the Spirit must be planted in us before we can bear the fruit of the Spirit. If they repent and endure unto the end, they will receive the morning star, and be placed in authority over all nations. That's a pretty good deal. The morning star is Jesus, so they will get His presence. They will also be put in charge of the nations. Leaders need discernment and clarity, so they will have the discernment and clarity that Jesus provides. I would want a leader like that in charge of me. I want that right now. I don't mind following someone like that.
Sardis (Rev 3:1-6): Jesus sees that a few of them are remaining pure and loyal, but that there are a lot of dead works. He wants them to awaken and remain vigilant unto the end. They must keep the Word and repent of all else. If they stay asleep then they will miss His coming. They will miss out on all He has to offer. If they stay vigilant and conquer unto the end they will be clothed in white garments and their names will never be blotted from the Book of Life. Jesus will also confess their names before God and angels. Basically, Jesus will cleanse them so they can be in His entourage, and He will look at God and the angels and say "they're with Me." I would love to roll w/ Jesus in His entourage. That would be a great reward.
Philadelphia (Rev 3:7-13): Philadelphia does not get a rebuke. They are in the same boat as Smyrna was. They too have a "synagogue of Satan" that Jesus will war against. They hold fast to His Word and do not deny Him despite great opposition. He tells them to keep holding on. Their reward is to be made pillars in the temple of God inscribed with the names of God, New Jerusalem, and Christ. Since God does not live in temple buildings, but in the hearts of His people, this symbolizes that they will be important fixtures in His presence. They will remain in His presence. They will bear His name. That's pretty cool too!
Laodicea (Rev 3:14-22): Laodicea does not receive any commendation. Jesus is rather pissed at them. This is where we get the much-used lukewarm verse (Rev 3:16). They have nothing good for Jesus to commend, and nothing bad for Jesus to rebuke, but the inaction is rebuked. This shows that there is no neutrality with God. Just because you do not openly oppose Him does not mean you get to spend eternity in Heaven. Inaction is the same as open rebellion in His eyes. This is very dangerous stuff. I saw myself as lukewarm for a period of my life, and I repented of that. Some days my fire may not burn as bright, but it is there now. Jesus calls them spiritually blind, bankrupt, naked and lukewarm. Ouch! Smyrna and Philadelphia got hope, and the others all got some commendations, but Laodicea is just feeling His ire. He tells them to buy gold, white garments, and salve from Himself. They can't afford that! That's the thing. Jesus paid it all, and so everything is His to freely give. They have to take action and come get it though. He wants them to grow hot, and pursue Him. When Jesus tells you that He'd rather you be cold (oppenly against Him) than lukewarm, you know you have a problem. He hates inaction. He says if they do not take action either way, He will spew them out of His mouth. He's used His mouth as symbolism before. He has the double-edged sword of Truth in His mouth, and He will also claim Sardis as His posse. He will speak for someone, or against someone, but He will also spew some people from His mouth. Some people aren't even worth mentioning. I don't want to be one of those people! I want Him to validate me. I want to be His friend. I want Him to teach me Truth. I don't want to be vomited from His mouth. Here's the kicker. Check their reward if they pursue Him. They get to dine with Him as friends, and will be granted the chance to sit with Jesus on His throne! So, here's a church that's done nothing (literally) to deserve anything good from Him, and He tells them He will reward them with the chance to be very close to Him. Reclining at the table with Him as friends, and sitting on His throne! That shows that they will have some crazy leadership responsibilities. Thyatira gets to rule over nations, but Laodicea will get to rule over them! That's not too shabby! I'd like to sit on the throne.
Okay, we must all understand something. If we are in Christ, we all gain Heaven. We will all eat with God at the Wedding Feast of the Lamb, and we will all spend eternity in God's presence (Heaven). If we're in...we're in. Period. Nobody gets in without Jesus though. This shows that Jesus still values division of labor, responsibilities in the Kingdom, roles, etc. We will be doing work, son! Even though our rewards are the same, there are different levels. That does not mean one person will be better than another. Since we will not be seeking our own glory, but His, and in Heaven we will have His glorious presence, then our roles won't matter to us. Nobody will have any reason to boast or be jealous. Each of these listed rewards is awesome. What I get from these 3 chapters is that I do not need to worry :) Whatever Heaven is like, I will not be bored, and I will get to chill with Jesus. While I'm on this earth, I hope Jesus can write me a letter telling me "I like this...", and I also hope He loves me enough to say "I don't like this. Here is how you fix it..." (Revelation 3:19, "Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.") As a loving parent disciplines their child to teach them, so God does for His children. When He disciplines me I know He loves me, and I also know I'm His child. He wants to prune me so that I can bear more fruit. Pruning hurts, but it is necessary. I don't know why He wants to use me. I am nothing. Still, I want to hold onto my first love and be faithful unto death. I do not want to die anytime soon, but it's nice to know I have something amazing waiting for me at the end of this life. As I continue to live I want to bear fruit and advance the Kingdom.
For the Kingdom,
Stuart
Ephesus (Rev 2:1-7): Jesus commends the Ephesians for their doctrinal vigilance and endurance. I know several people who are doctrinally strong at my church. Far stronger than I am. Jesus points out to them that they have lost their first love, which is Him. He pretty much says He likes what they're doing for Him, but He misses the relationship He had with them. He tells them to remember the relationship, repent for losing sight of it, and to do the works they did at the beginning. To me, I read it as a call to do good works because I love Him, not because I feel like I have to please Him. Works do not save us (Ephesians 2:8-9). Funny how Paul wrote a letter to the Ephesians talking about works, and here Jesus does the same thing. Good works are not bad since they are evidence of a relationship with Him (or they should be), but Jesus does not want me to forget about His grace and love. Any good works that I do should be flowing from Him through me. I am not a righteous person. None of us are. He is righteous, and if we believe then He lives in us, and from Him all good things flow. Jesus tells them that if they don't repent then He will remove their lampstand, which is symbolic for Him taking away their witness. They will cease to be effective despite their good works. That sucks. I do not want to be insignificant. However, if they conquer and endure until the end then He will allow them to eat from the Tree of Life in Paradise (Eden). Adam and Eve (and through them all of us) were cut off from the Tree of Life by a cherubim with a flaming sword. These Ephesians get to regain Paradise! That would be awesome. I'm a junkie for historical stuff, or experiencing things not everyone gets to experience. Walking into Eden and taking a bite of that fruit seems like an awesome reward!
Smyrna (Rev 2:8-11): This is bleak, yet awesomely hopeful at the same time. In these letters, Jesus opens with an introduction of Himself, a commendation, a rebuke, a solution to the problem, and consequences (good and bad) of their choices after the fact. Jesus does not have a rebuke for Smyrna (yay, right?). Instead he tells them that they will face persecution from the "synagogue of Satan", and that they should endure unto death. He introduced Himself as the One who died and came back to life. He shows that He is Life, and He gives life. He tells them to endure, and they will be given the crown of life, and will not be hurt by the second (eternal) death. This kinda sucks. You get a letter saying, "hey, you're going to die. It's not going to get any better on earth." But, at the same time, Jesus Himself is writing you a letter telling you to hold on because He's got you for eternity. Jesus knew He came to be crucified. He knew He was sacrificing Himself for the sins of the world (my sins), but He also knew He would gain Heaven. He's pretty much giving Smyrna the same encouragement God the Father gave Him. That's pretty cool. I don't want to be told that my life is going to suck more and more with each day, but having Jesus Himself tell me He's waiting for me might give me some hope LoL.
Pergamum (Rev 2:12-17): John describes Jesus as having a double-edged sword coming out of His mouth in his vision. This is where Jesus says He will use it. The church in Pergamum has been holding fast to His teaching, and they have been warring against false teachings. They have not denied their faith. However, there were some who gave in to false teachings, and Jesus rebukes them. He calls them to repent and return to His Truth. He is the Truth. Period. He tells them if they do not repent He will wage war on them with the sword of His mouth. Lies cannot stand up against Truth. I get the image of a debate where He just cuts them all down with Truth. The sword is a powerful image that is used elsewhere in Scripture to describe the Word of God, or Bible (Isaiah 49:2; Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12; and Revelation 19:15). So, basically, Jesus will wage war. I don't want to be His enemy. I will lose! If Pergamum repents then Jesus will give them a white stone with their new name on it, and hidden manna. When I first read this I was like "big whoop", but when I read the explanation, I realized that the hidden manna symbolizes the undefiled food. The "good stuff". God's personal supply. A white stone was given to the winners of competitions and games by the host. That stone was their meal ticket, their invitation to the banquet with the host after the games. So, basically, Jesus is saying that if they endure until the end, they will get to party with Him in his VIP lounge. That's pretty cool when I think about it. I'd like to have exclusive access to Him.
Thyatira (Rev 2:18-29): Thyatira gets props for its good works. However, Jesus points out that in their growing love, they are beginning to lose their discernment and allow in things like sexual immorality. This is an example of a "there is grace, so do whatever you want." scenario. Jesus points out that that is not the case. Yes, there is grace and love, but not to the point of sinning. The grace and love are meant to keep us from sinning, not allow it. I love how Jesus just echoes Paul yet again. I also love that these letters are short. Jesus does not need to reason with them. He is the Truth. Period. He's very concise. "I like this, I don't like this, do this to change, if you don't then I will do this, and if you do then I will give you this." It's very straightforward. Jesus warns that if they do not repent and seek discernment then He will give them each according to their works. Since all of our good works are as filthy rags to Him in the first place (Isaiah 64:6), we're not going to get to be with Him. Our salvation does not come from the fruit, but the root. The seed of the Spirit must be planted in us before we can bear the fruit of the Spirit. If they repent and endure unto the end, they will receive the morning star, and be placed in authority over all nations. That's a pretty good deal. The morning star is Jesus, so they will get His presence. They will also be put in charge of the nations. Leaders need discernment and clarity, so they will have the discernment and clarity that Jesus provides. I would want a leader like that in charge of me. I want that right now. I don't mind following someone like that.
Sardis (Rev 3:1-6): Jesus sees that a few of them are remaining pure and loyal, but that there are a lot of dead works. He wants them to awaken and remain vigilant unto the end. They must keep the Word and repent of all else. If they stay asleep then they will miss His coming. They will miss out on all He has to offer. If they stay vigilant and conquer unto the end they will be clothed in white garments and their names will never be blotted from the Book of Life. Jesus will also confess their names before God and angels. Basically, Jesus will cleanse them so they can be in His entourage, and He will look at God and the angels and say "they're with Me." I would love to roll w/ Jesus in His entourage. That would be a great reward.
Philadelphia (Rev 3:7-13): Philadelphia does not get a rebuke. They are in the same boat as Smyrna was. They too have a "synagogue of Satan" that Jesus will war against. They hold fast to His Word and do not deny Him despite great opposition. He tells them to keep holding on. Their reward is to be made pillars in the temple of God inscribed with the names of God, New Jerusalem, and Christ. Since God does not live in temple buildings, but in the hearts of His people, this symbolizes that they will be important fixtures in His presence. They will remain in His presence. They will bear His name. That's pretty cool too!
Laodicea (Rev 3:14-22): Laodicea does not receive any commendation. Jesus is rather pissed at them. This is where we get the much-used lukewarm verse (Rev 3:16). They have nothing good for Jesus to commend, and nothing bad for Jesus to rebuke, but the inaction is rebuked. This shows that there is no neutrality with God. Just because you do not openly oppose Him does not mean you get to spend eternity in Heaven. Inaction is the same as open rebellion in His eyes. This is very dangerous stuff. I saw myself as lukewarm for a period of my life, and I repented of that. Some days my fire may not burn as bright, but it is there now. Jesus calls them spiritually blind, bankrupt, naked and lukewarm. Ouch! Smyrna and Philadelphia got hope, and the others all got some commendations, but Laodicea is just feeling His ire. He tells them to buy gold, white garments, and salve from Himself. They can't afford that! That's the thing. Jesus paid it all, and so everything is His to freely give. They have to take action and come get it though. He wants them to grow hot, and pursue Him. When Jesus tells you that He'd rather you be cold (oppenly against Him) than lukewarm, you know you have a problem. He hates inaction. He says if they do not take action either way, He will spew them out of His mouth. He's used His mouth as symbolism before. He has the double-edged sword of Truth in His mouth, and He will also claim Sardis as His posse. He will speak for someone, or against someone, but He will also spew some people from His mouth. Some people aren't even worth mentioning. I don't want to be one of those people! I want Him to validate me. I want to be His friend. I want Him to teach me Truth. I don't want to be vomited from His mouth. Here's the kicker. Check their reward if they pursue Him. They get to dine with Him as friends, and will be granted the chance to sit with Jesus on His throne! So, here's a church that's done nothing (literally) to deserve anything good from Him, and He tells them He will reward them with the chance to be very close to Him. Reclining at the table with Him as friends, and sitting on His throne! That shows that they will have some crazy leadership responsibilities. Thyatira gets to rule over nations, but Laodicea will get to rule over them! That's not too shabby! I'd like to sit on the throne.
Okay, we must all understand something. If we are in Christ, we all gain Heaven. We will all eat with God at the Wedding Feast of the Lamb, and we will all spend eternity in God's presence (Heaven). If we're in...we're in. Period. Nobody gets in without Jesus though. This shows that Jesus still values division of labor, responsibilities in the Kingdom, roles, etc. We will be doing work, son! Even though our rewards are the same, there are different levels. That does not mean one person will be better than another. Since we will not be seeking our own glory, but His, and in Heaven we will have His glorious presence, then our roles won't matter to us. Nobody will have any reason to boast or be jealous. Each of these listed rewards is awesome. What I get from these 3 chapters is that I do not need to worry :) Whatever Heaven is like, I will not be bored, and I will get to chill with Jesus. While I'm on this earth, I hope Jesus can write me a letter telling me "I like this...", and I also hope He loves me enough to say "I don't like this. Here is how you fix it..." (Revelation 3:19, "Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.") As a loving parent disciplines their child to teach them, so God does for His children. When He disciplines me I know He loves me, and I also know I'm His child. He wants to prune me so that I can bear more fruit. Pruning hurts, but it is necessary. I don't know why He wants to use me. I am nothing. Still, I want to hold onto my first love and be faithful unto death. I do not want to die anytime soon, but it's nice to know I have something amazing waiting for me at the end of this life. As I continue to live I want to bear fruit and advance the Kingdom.
For the Kingdom,
Stuart
Friday, October 14, 2011
Worship
We were created to worship something, whether it be God, Football, Money, etc. Worship is just spending your time and resources on the pursuit of something you value. God wants to be placed first and foremost in our lives, and in return He promises His best will for us. Matthew 6:33 says to seek after Him first, and then we'll be given everything else. It's not "so that" we'll get everything else. God is not a means to an end. He is the end. He is all.
Never do I feel closer to God than in corporate praise and worship, meaning group singing of praise songs. The Holy Spirit falls on the room whether you're singing hymns or the latest Chris Tomlin song. I have seen spiritually dead congregations where they sing out of necessity, and I have seen the Holy Spirit blast a group of about twenty 8-12yr old kids. I've been a part of large worship services at Watkinsville First Baptist Church, including a live CD recording, where the Holy Spirit shows up in force. The Spirit moves us to song, to poetry, to raw emotion. I'm not saying this doesn't happen in other religions, but I personally haven't seen it. I know other religions have their ways to show their devotion, but most of the time it seems like they're saying, "I don't know what to do, so I'll do this and hope and pray you like it." whereas Christians acknowledge that Christ has already done it, and the least we could do is sing to Him. Sometimes vocal singing isn't even necessary.
I don't have much time to go truly in depth, but this is just my way of saying I love being in corporate worship sessions. Whether it's a fully-plugged in band, or one man w/ an acoustic guitar, as long as the Holy Spirit is there, it's amazing. We need to be less focused on the spectacle and more focused on the presence of God. A church body led by the Spirit is a force to be reckoned with indeed. I'm thankful for the worship leaders and singers/players in my life. You know who you are :)
For the Kingdom,
Stuart
Never do I feel closer to God than in corporate praise and worship, meaning group singing of praise songs. The Holy Spirit falls on the room whether you're singing hymns or the latest Chris Tomlin song. I have seen spiritually dead congregations where they sing out of necessity, and I have seen the Holy Spirit blast a group of about twenty 8-12yr old kids. I've been a part of large worship services at Watkinsville First Baptist Church, including a live CD recording, where the Holy Spirit shows up in force. The Spirit moves us to song, to poetry, to raw emotion. I'm not saying this doesn't happen in other religions, but I personally haven't seen it. I know other religions have their ways to show their devotion, but most of the time it seems like they're saying, "I don't know what to do, so I'll do this and hope and pray you like it." whereas Christians acknowledge that Christ has already done it, and the least we could do is sing to Him. Sometimes vocal singing isn't even necessary.
I don't have much time to go truly in depth, but this is just my way of saying I love being in corporate worship sessions. Whether it's a fully-plugged in band, or one man w/ an acoustic guitar, as long as the Holy Spirit is there, it's amazing. We need to be less focused on the spectacle and more focused on the presence of God. A church body led by the Spirit is a force to be reckoned with indeed. I'm thankful for the worship leaders and singers/players in my life. You know who you are :)
For the Kingdom,
Stuart
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