What News?

Here’s a better way, by Shane Scott:

1.  For every minute you listen to or read a pundit that you agree with, listen to or read a pundit you disagree with. If you watch Fox News, then flip over to MSNBC. If you listen to Sirius Progressive, then also listen to Sirius Patriot. If you read The Daily Kos, then check out Breitbart. Try to understand the arguments the other side makes. “Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude” (1 Peter 3:8, New Living Translation).
2. For every assertion you make on social media, ask a question. This is the precise opposite of how most social media works. But if you decide to ask questions as often as you make assertions – with genuine interest in what those on the other side may say – you might learn something. You might even learn you have more in common than you think, and you will certainly be less quick-tempered. “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger” (James 1:19).
3. For every criticism you offer of some outrage on the other side of the political spectrum, make a criticism of some outrage on your own side. Don’t pretend that it is only those you disagree with who are cruel, dishonest, or vulgar. Human depravity being what it is, there is plenty to choose from on all sides. “First take the log out of your own eye” (Matthew 7:5).
4. For every argument you have with someone on the other side, do something kind for someone on the other side. I’m not opposed to genuine debate – in fact, I think a good argument is a great thing for our democracy. But I don’t think it is healthy when our only interaction with those who hold different views is in the context of the clash of ideas. This inevitably dehumanizes those on the other side, reducing them to opponents rather than seeing them as people. Robust debate is great, but loving your neighbor as yourself is better. “Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom” (James 3:13).

From Scot McKnight "Jesus Creed" 1-28-2017

Looking for the Hand of God in 2017

Ecclesiastes 2:24 says, "So I decided there is nothing better than to enjoy food and drink and to find satisfaction in work. Then I realized that these pleasures are from the and of God."

2016 was a difficult year for many people including myself. I am hopeful despite the gloom and doom of the media that 2017 will be a better year than 2016.  Not because of who was elected president or who our nation's leaders presently are.  This is a year to listen and hear from God.

Here is what I hear God speaking this year to his bride the church. "When you let go of what's in your had, I will give you what's in my hand."  Many of us need to let go the past and yes, even let go of 2016.  What we need to embrace this year is what is in God's hand.  But please understand this, God is not going to give you what is in His hand until you let go of what is in your hand.

Some people may have trouble trusting God or what is in God's hand? The real issue is do you trust God enough to let go of what is in your hand first? Holding everything with open hands frees us and allows God the freedom to take us wherever God wants to take us.  Where do you see the hand of God already at work? What are some areas in your life you need to let go of so God can give you what's in His hand?

Decluttering the Soul

I believe 2017 is a year of perfection and completion. Old endings and new beginnings. This is a year for starters to declutter my soul:

1.  Exercise regularly and pray constantly.

2.  Detach from things and cling to Christ.

3.  Crucify the flesh and live for Christ.

4.  To imitate Christ in a life of poverty and humility of spirit.

5.  To hold nothing and to hold God's hand like a child again.

"Maranatha!"