March 23, 2004
Defragging and Engaging
Have you ever watched the inner workings as your computer is defragging? It’s fascinating to me because I like seeing things put in order. The results are calming and peaceful.
That’s what’s been happening to my brain for the last several years… a major defragging by way of a paradigm shift. Several people are responsible for the process. The perseverance, patience and encouragement of my daughter and son plus the freedom to grow from my husband, even when the shift is not something he is embracing, have been the human catalysts for the change. Outside the circle of immediate family are a host of others, the most important being the teacher and members of my Thoughts Captive Class at Cambridge Study Center. Their investment in me has been and continues to be invaluable.
In essence, a transforming and renewing of my mind is taking place. It’s profound and wonderful and at the same time, difficult and sometimes painful. In that respect, I liken the experience to being put through the wringer. Are you old enough to remember the machine your grandmothers and great grandmothers used to squeeze water from washed clothes? In a word… stress. Significant others are needed for the journey.
Each of us has the opportunity and responsibility to be part of that process in the lives of those in our sphere of influence. In a sermon written in 1941, CS Lewis called it The Weight of Glory. I decided to borrow his phrase for the title of this online journal. When time permits, I encourage you to read what he says. It is a powerful explanation and description of our part in that process. I desire and look forward to hearing, “Well done good and faithful servant”, and I’m very grateful to those who are sharing the load, the weight and burden of my glory.
Whose burden will you carry? Whose brain will you help defrag and which souls will you assist through the wringer? In this season of my life, family, friends, and those who home educate their children are my load. I’m trusting that the gifts and talents given to me will be used for their glory, their reward upon hearing………….. ”Well done”.
September 11, 2003
A Great Way To Engage
"There is a just world coming. It will be set right. It will be restored. In the meantime, give others a taste of that world." Pastor David McWilliams, October 20, 2002, Covenant Presbyterian Church, Lakeland FL.
We live in a pagan culture. If that sounds shocking, look around...USA is not a Christian culture. It borrows values from that world view but our country is not Christian. As a believer, how can I make a difference?
In the last few weeks I have received various e-mails regarding Opportunities from the Polk County Board of County Commissioners. If your educational philosophy embraces a lifestyle of learning approach, then making room for volunteer activities that match up with your family is education in action. I encourage you to consider volunteering within the community in areas that fit your interests, hobbies, talents. That match will be different for each family.
Some may ask, "Why choose a secular organization when I can serve in a ministry within the church?" I 've been giving that much thought. There is legitimacy in both but I'm wondering if rubbing shoulders with movers and shakers of secular "good works" would, over time, make more impact? We isolate so much as Christians thinking that is how to be obedient to James 1 :27. This means leaving my comfort zone.
Can I purpose to keep my Christian distinctive and engage the culture for Christ by remembering to know Christ, show Christ and speak Christ... in that order? Can I refrain from verbally witnessing until a relationship is established and instead first show others with my actions, compassion for a fallen world? Christianity is not a quick fix. I have the answer however it takes time to invest in the lives of others. It is a process before and after conversion. Will I make the commitment?
"When God makes us new creations, we are called to make new creations around us. We are signs" Pastor David McWilliams, August 24, 2003, Covenant Presbyterian Church, Lakeland FL.
