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Nothing But Nets

I’d vaguely heard about the campaign for malaria-deterring mosquito netting in conjunction with Millennium Promise, but I was recently reminded by a post over at the UN Dispatch blog. The effort has seemingly taken on new life after Rick Reilly wrote about it in his Sports Illustrated column (very much worth the read). If you’ll remember, Rick Reilly was also the one who wrote about the Hoyt triathlon team.

Cool things to note about the “Nothing But Nets” campaign: it’s the work of “the United Nations Foundation, in partnership with Sports Illustrated, the NBA, and the People of the United Methodist Church.” I love the diversity of participation in this. It also worth noting that 100% of donations go directly to the nets, since the U.N. Foundation was specifically set up to cover admin costs, without dipping into donations.

So, c’mon, go spend your $10 on a net already.

Motivation for evangelism

As I recently mentioned, I’m reading “Just Walk Across the Room” by Bill Hybels. In just the introduction and the first chapter, there has been plenty of though-provoking material.

The premise of the book is that sometimes evangelism is not about having a polished testimony, or knowing all the texts meant to convert people, but rather, it’s just the willingness to notice another person and reach out to him.

This concept certainly isn’t a new one, but I like its presentation in this book. The author illustrates this idea clearly through a bunch of personal stories. He also tackles the deeper question of “why isn’t this our first instinct, anyway?”

One of the questions at the end of chapter one tackles this a bit. It is actually a set of true-or-false statements:

I believe that every person I know would be better off living God’s way.

I live my life in such a way that others around me know I believe this.

I want to become more of a walk-across-the-room man or woman who jumps all over evangelistic opportunities God lays in my path.

I’m willing to let go of other passions so that God’s people can take top priority.

I don’t know about you, but for me, some of those questions are hard-hitting. For the record, my answers:

I believe that every person I know would be better off living God’s way.
Yes (in my head).

I live my life in such a way that others around me know I believe this.
Doubtful. I’d be surprised if anyone would say that, actually.

I want to become more of a walk-across-the-room man or woman who jumps all over evangelistic opportunities God lays in my path.
Yes yes and yes. (This is why I’m reading the book!) The trouble is that I feel like the answer to the first statement has to change (from “in my head” to “deeply in every part of my being”) before that can happen. It seems like a lot to ask of a book to deliver that change. (And yes, before I spark too many suggestions to this effect, I have prayed—and am praying—for this heart penetration. I’m not relying on just a stack of pages for this. I am open to your suggestions, though!)

I’m willing to let go of other passions so that God’s people can take top priority.
And this might be the key to the other issues. I’m tentatively willing. Basically, my take on this is that I’m trying my best to be open to God’s will, but He’s going to have to take care of the desire (again, I’m praying for this, so I’m not totally passive here). If He wants me to lay aside other passions, He’s going to have to give my heart a reason—something that it understands in order to collaborate with my head.

How do you answer these questions?

Books / Christianity / The Search for Significance / Wisdom — 2 Comments
10
Aug 06

Off the bandwagon, plus a few thoughts

I’m sure by now that it is painfully obvious that I’m not doing the commentary on “The Search for Significance” as I’d intended. I did have good intentions, but you know what those pave! As it turned out, I’ve been keeping up with my assigned reading of the book (but just barely), and posting about it just hasn’t been a high enough priority to push out other things in my life (you know, like sleep…). So I’m going to be realistic and declare my intention to not blog the book.

I have picked up a lot of interesting things from the book, though, and it’s changing the way I look at the world around me. The book’s “big idea” for Christians is this:

I am deeply loved, completely forgiven, fully pleasing, totally accepted by God, and complete in Christ.

I always have a hard time internalizing things like this, but I have seen glimpses of these truths, and it’s amazing.

I’m also struck by how many people believe the lie (my self-worth = my performance + other’s opinions). I guess I shouldn’t be, since I believe it a lot of the time, but I was hit by it again this morning while reading people’s answers to a prompt in one of my dieting groups. The prompt was “I am proud of myself today because…” and almost every response was totally performance-driven. Either they were happy because of something they did, or unhappy because they didn’t do something. None of the answers were “be” or “are” answers; they were all “do”.

On a different but related note, I really like this quote from Karen Hancock’s blog:

Great messages lately in Bible class, particularly the one about how “God is able to make all grace ABOUND to you, that ALWAYS having ALL sufficiency in EVERYTHING you may have an ABUNDANCE for EVERY good deed.” ~ 2 Co 9:8

Just a reminder that I have everything I need — the talent, the wit, the time, the energy — to complete this task in accordance with His will. I am keeping myself focused on that, and not the scary speculations that want to raise their very ugly heads from time to time.

Ethics / Politics — 1 Comment
20
Jul 06

An interesting post on stem cell research

I will be the first to admit I’m not very well informed on this issue, so it was interesting to read “The problem stems from ignorance“. He’s not actually taking a stand on stem cell research (so hackles down, everyone!), but pointing out the hypocricy in the way we pick one thing to be “against” while ignoring a larger issue. A fairly quick and thought-provoking read.

Life / Prayer — 2 Comments
13
Jun 06

What do you do at stop lights?

I received an forwarded email from one of my friends just now that was better than the average forward (to start with, it wasn’t patently false and didn’t order me to send it on). It was a collection of word trivia and other random (but interesting) facts. This one caught my eye:

If you are an average American, in your whole life, you will spend an average of 6 months waiting at red lights.

I doubt I drive as much as the average American (one of the benefits of working from home) but my first thought was, “Wow, six months is a long time to waste!” I started to think about how that time could be used (ever the multitasker!) and thought it would be fun to write a blog post on the topic.

I’ve been forwarded too many stupid emails, though, that don’t have their facts straight, so I wanted to look up the statistic and find a reputable source before I went and made myself look silly. I never did find a specific study (though the number is mentioned all over the place), but I did find the Stop to Pray website.

It’s a simple idea (and along the lines of what I was thinking when I first read the fact): take the “wasted” time at stop lights, and use it to do something you want to spend more time doing; in this case, praying. The site offers a rearview mirror hanger to remind you, and just for a self-addressed stamped envelope. On the one hand, it’s not a big deal, but on the other, for those of us who seriously believe in the power of prayer, think about the potential ROI!

Christianity / Life — 2 Comments
26
May 06

Lo-Fi Faith Meme

I don’t usually do memes (primarily because I rarely get tagged!) but Robert sent this one and I thought it was interesting.

1: List three (3) words that describe your faith.

Hungry. Growing. Inconsistent.

2: Describe a belief you are certain about and one with which you struggle.

I’m certain that God exists and cares for me, and that He will provide what is needed.

I struggle to understand prayer sometimes. If God wants what’s best for His children, then why do we pray (particularly intercessorily) for other believers? I can’t imagine that God needs “convincing”, but I struggle with the logic.

3: What is your mission in life?

Biblically, I know that it’s to bring glory to God. My problem is that I usually don’t know how to apply that. I’m working on compassion, availability, and vulnerability, and figure that will help in all areas, right?

4: Describe one thing that interferes with authentically living out your faith.

Being too busy. How on earth can God use me when He can’t even get my attention (and yet, sometimes He does anyway!)?

5: What is your favorite story from the Hebrew Scriptures? Why?

Daniel (the whole story part of the book, really). This was a guy who wouldn’t compromise on what mattered, and that’s pretty much unheard of.

6: What is your favorite New Testament story? Why?

Jesus sending out the disciples in pairs to spread the word. I like it because I think it’s an interesting idea and wonder how it could be applied. Similarly, I am fascinated by early church communal life.

7: Describe a meaningful action you took because of your faith.

I’ve done lots of “things” (giving money, going on mission trips) but I think that the more “meaningful” parts are those (unfortunately rare) occasions when I pray diligently for another person on an ongoing basis (I know, it’s a little ironic given my response to the second question).

8: Does your faith differ from that of your parents? If so, how?

I think it’s different in that I was born into it, while my mom had to find it. Sometimes that’s good and sometimes it’s a hinderance, but it is what it is. And of course, different life experiences change the way we experience faith, too. But when it comes down to it, I think that my faith is pretty close to my parents’; I’m just privileged to be part of a faith community where faith is encouraged to take over my life.

9: Who or what was most important in the development of your faith?

Good question. Faith has always made sense to me, and I think that the hunger aspect of it is spurred on by God Himself more than anyone else.

10: Pass it on! Tag at least two other religious/faith bloggers.

Not sure if they’ll be doing it, but I’m tagging jennifer, Chris, and all my MySpace friends. (I’m an overachiever today! I’m also curious about everyone’s answers.)

Christianity / Wisdom — 7 Comments
10
May 06

Christian Carnival CXXI (121)

It’s my privilege and joy to host this week’s edition of the Christian Carnival. Because there are a moderate number of eligible entries, I have listed all of them in the order I received them (in this case, good things come to those who don’t wait). Settle in for some good reading!

Rejoice always
From the author, Michael McCullough: “If your life is not filled with joy, ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit and to bless you with joy. Pray often — Paul says to “pray without ceasing” — and God will honor your prayers. As you grow in Christ, the fruits of the spirit will begin to develop within you. Fruit takes time to mature, and because we are not perfect, the fruits of the spirit also often take time to mature within you. Think of all that God has given you and thank him for them. When we realize what God has done for us, it’s easier to develop an attitude of joy, and with that attitude of joy, joy becomes part of our very nature.”

The ID debate – moving forward
From the author, John: “Presenting a new model for understanging the relationship between Creator and Creation that avoids certain pitfalls of conventional pictures.”
This is the third post in a series; the first and second are linked in the first sentence and provide groundwork that is well worth reading, but the the post I’ve linked is the one with the reasoning and the conclusions.

Motivating Volunteers in Ministry
From the author, Tom: “In Christian ministry we rely first and always on prayer, the direction of the Holy Spirit, and the motivation of Christ’s love. Even churches with that foundation often discover, though, that something still seems to be missing. The work is not being done and the people are not fulfilled. What’s going on?”

The Moon Is Not Enough
Charlie Duke, a former NASA Astronaut, was one of only 12 men who have walked on the moon. This is his story of faith.

A Few Words on Total Depravity
From the author, Ben Dueholm: “I’m putting the T back in TULIP with a brief introduction to Total Depravity at Habakkuk’s Watchpost.”
This is a good exploration of a topic that makes a lot of people uncomfortable (as evidenced in the lively comment discussion that follows).

Music, Math, and God
Freeman Hunt is prompted by a passage in “The Screwtape Letters” to consider the relationships between music, math, and God.

Walking in the Bible
From the author, Martin LaBar: “My entry for this week is “Walking in the Bible,” in which I muse about the occurrences of “walk” in various forms in the Bible.”
I like these kinds of explorations. I’ve just recently discovered Blue Letter Bible, which makes it easier for us non-Greek-and-Hebrew scholars to look at the words of the Bible.

Does the first testament support slavery?
From the author, Steve: “I examine ways of interpreting the first (old) testament law and apply it to the issue of slavery.”
This is a very well-researched piece, and does a good job at looking at the various arguments and considerations.

John Bunyan
John Bunyan turns otu to be a very interesting person, as Laurie finds out while answering an email question.

Teach me to pray oh Lord
From the author, Carl Holmes: “A short reminder on how to pray when we feel God is not answering our prayers.”
Bonus points for including a relevant comic!

An Emerging Statement of Faith?
From the author, Byron D. Harvey: “Should the Emerging Church movement have a Statement of Faith? Theologian LeRon Shults says “no”; Byron Harvey says, “maybe or maybe not”, but if Shults’ reasoning is taken seriously, then maybe the answer is closer to “yes”…”

Nerd Family: There is a Reason for Menopause
Bet you didn’t think there was anything positive, huh? NerdMom makes a good case for menopause as an expression of God’s plans for us.

The Vatican and the Da Vinci Code
From the author, Xyba: “Cardinal Francis Arinze wants Christians to take legal action against the film “The Da Vinci Code.”"

The fruits of persecution
From the author, Penitens: “A reflection on godliness, honesty, and the grace of Christ in a challenging world.”

The Temple as a House of Prayer
From the author, Richard: “I write about the purpose of the prayer delivered by Solomon at the dedication of the Temple. “

Peace on Earth
From the author, Chris Alexion: “Bono’s views on war deserve a hearing, but fairness also calls for the rest of the story.”

People come and people go
From the author, Anthony I: “This is a post about life and death. It is about how we should prepare for our own end and how we should face death.”

Eternality
From the author, Rebecca: “It’s a short discussion of eternality: what it means, and what it means for us.”

Into the Marketplace – The Debaters
From the author, : “One highlight of the current evangelical movement is the thrust into the marketplace by Christian colleges and universities. Formerly, they have seen themselves as training for the ministry. But recently, they see their role as preparing well-informed Christians to share their faith in the marketplace of ideas. The current Christian college award-winning debate teams are an excellent example of this.”

Harris Poll: 43% of Democrats Oppose Abortion, DNC Needs Bigger Tent
I wasn’t aware of the way this issue is shifting, and I found AmericanSage’s post very thought-provoking.

‘An ark for all God’s Noahs’ by Thomas Brooks
From the author, Johnnie: “My blog covers readings on protestant books. This one was on Thomas Brooks’ work on ‘An ark for all God’s Noahs’.”

Cain, Abel and Ability -tmp(Gen 4)
Rey examines Cain to see what exactly he inherited from Adam.

My Politics: Faith’s Place Therein (Part VII): Life
From the author, Ron: “Continuation of a series on politics, focusing on life issues (abortion and euthanasia) and seeking God’s wisdom in scripture and prayer when deciding whether abortion and euthanasia are wrong.”

Reflections from the Pool
From the author, Mark Olson: “I’ve just about finished reading a book, Following Gandalf and put to pen some of my thoughts which were shaken loose by that experience.”

Opheilema in Matthew 6:12
Kenny Pearce discusses the meaning and proper translation of the phrase “forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors” in the Lord’s Prayer.

ID Undermines Itself?
From the author, Jeremy Pierce: “Some people criticize intelligent design arguments, saying that they contradict themselves by making it both very likely and very unlikely that the evidence in question would occur. That criticism is a mistake.”

Thanks for reading, visiting, and linking! Tune in next week for more carnival-y goodness at Pursuing Holiness.

Christianity / Church / Technology — 4 Comments
18
Apr 06

An awesome new tool for praying geeks

I’ve been part of the private beta for People2Pray for a while now, and I like it a lot. So much that I really wanted to tell everyone about it (and get people I know to sign up for it), but since it was in private beta, that wasn’t really practical. Happy me this morning when I found out they opened it up for public beta. So go sign up already!

A little more about what I love about it:

It’s all about making prayer intentional and trackable. This is very much like a traditional prayer journal, but ideal for those of us who lose those under the bed but look at our homepage(s) every day.
Aside from the prayer-journal-like-benefits (perspective, consistancy, etc.), the tech aspect of it adds extra features: sharing, communities, connection with others, and most importantly, a means for prayers to rise all over the globe, no matter where you are.
They’ve really thought through the public/private aspect. You can make a request private, public, or share with just a specific community or person. This is very important to me, as I make most of my requests public, but there are some that need to be private for the protection of others.
This may be just the kind of collaborative tool that our church needs. We’re currently using a Yahoo! Group, but I’d love to migrate to People2Pray—and I think it will help most of our prayer warriors personally, too.

Is anyone interested in creating a community for shared requests?

Christianity / Life / Wisdom — No Comments
12
Apr 06

Prairie chickens versus eagles

One of my favorite writers, Karen Hancock, started a blog recently, and I added it to my daily feed. Some posts interest me more than others; I like her posts that kind of reveal the process behind the books (and now I have some clues as to what will happen in the next book!), but my favorite posts are the ones where she reflects on God and his hand in our lives.

The posts mentioned in the title focus on our response to God’s hand. The first one, Prairie Chickens, recounts a parable of an eagle raised as a prairie chicken—basically, us most of the time. The second one, Soaring Eagle, talks about the alternative, the life we are meant to lead. Hope you enjoy the posts and consider adding Karen to your reading list (and reading her excellent books!).

Christianity / Religion — 4 Comments
3
Mar 06

Questions about John 11

I was reading John 11 today (read it in The Message, NLT, NASB) and came across a few things that made me go “hmmm”:

What is Jesus talking about in verses 9 and 10? And how does it answer the question in verse 8? I have no idea.
I love Thomas’s respons in verse 16. Poor guy really got the short end of the stick in that we only remember him for doubting.
Why did Mary stay in the house when Martha went out (verse 20)? Especially given that she “ran out to” Jesus when Martha whispered to her. Maybe she didn’t know Jesus was there? I don’t know, but I do find it interesting that Martha specifies (verse 28) that Jesus particularly wants to see Mary. That would feel like a tremendous compliment, I think.
This was brought out in the latest issue of Discipleship Journal: Martha and Mary both make the same comment to Jesus. He responds to each of them in a completely different way: with Martha, he brings up the theological truth; with Mary, he weeps.
What is Jesus deeply angry/troubled in spirit/moved with indignation (depending on the translation) about? I’m not sure if I understand this reaction, and I’d like to know what you all think.

These aren’t rhetorical questions. Post your comments.

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