Rethinking "Worship"

A couple days ago I posted a response to a conversation started by my Twitter friend Tami about "Why I Can't Listen to Christian Music." Something I wanted to address (and made very brief mention of, or eluded to in the post) was this notion that worship is founded in music. Don't get me wrong, I love singing songs of praise and love to my King, but worship is so much more than singing once or twice a week in corporate worship. Worship is my living response to God and His grace and mercy (and patience!), not the songs I sing. Now that I've said this some people are going to instantly jump on me (or become defensive, at a minimum) for insinuating that some people think music is the only way to "worship," but I beg for your patience before raising arms against me. :-)

I was reading an article by Dan Kimball called "Communicating Well in a Fast-Paced World" that discusses the misuses or misunderstandings of certain words used by the Church/believers and the theological (the way people know and understand God) ramifications of those words. The first one mentioned is "worship" and I think his words are worthy of repeating:

"...if you were to grab a 20-year-old who is part of your church and ask him or her “What is worship?” there is a very high probability he would say “music” or “singing.” After all, we call the musician who leads the singing the “worship pastor” or “worship leader.” After the sermon is over, the worship leader usually says something like, “Let’s now worship,” essentially equating worship with the singing. So naturally, when we ask a 20-year-old to define worship, the first thing that comes to their mind is singing. As they are in a conversation with someone and say, “I love to worship at my church,” it usually means they love the music. We know as leaders that singing is but one very limited understanding of what worship is. But week after week we let it go, reinforcing the common perception through our language. In the hectic and fast-paced nature of life and ministry, we may not be stopping to wonder if the people we lead are understanding theologically what “worship” really is. This does have theological implications to our day-to-day living. If the people we lead subtly begin equating worship with singing together, then we aren’t understanding the concept of holistic sacrificial worship as Romans 12:1–2 teaches. So worship takes place mainly at a meeting when we all sing, not as a lifestyle. An extreme dichotomy can occur in one’s spiritual formation and how they live their life and view themselves as a worshipper."

Could not have said it better (hence the reason I didn't!). Interested in seeing his views on some other key words ("church," "pastor," "sanctuary" or "meeting place")? Check out the rest of his article here (highly recommended!).

Want to join the conversation? Click here to post a comment or ask a question!

_____________________

NEW! The Seven Year Marriage Warranty!!!

Watch this video first.

I can hear the infomercial now…

“Is waking up to the same person morning after morning not as exciting as you thought it’d be? Has your marriage lost that “spark” it had at the beginning? Has your spouse become complacent or lazy, leading you to fall out of love with them?

Well put them on notice! Your chance at marital freedom and a fresh start is here!

Don’t worry about the messy divorce… give them seven years instead. After seven years if they haven’t figured it out, you can get out – no questions asked! That’s right!

IT'S THE SEVEN YEAR MARRIAGE WARRANTY!!!!

Now your marital woes can become a thing of the past with no hassles! It’s simple. On your wedding day just tell the Priest/Pastor you want the Seven Year Marriage Warranty and put your spouse on notice!

No messy divorces, no lawyer fees, no court fees, no settlements… just your complete and unconditional satisfaction - INSTANTLY!

Sound too good to be true? Well that’s not all! Order now and we’ll throw in the Eighteen Year Parent Warranty ABSOLUTELY FREE!

That’s right! This way you not only put your spouse on notice, but those lazy, argumentative, rebellious teenagers, too! Order now... churches and pastors are standing by!”

I’m sorry, but this has got to be one of the most selfish, self-centered arrangements I’ve ever heard of. It’s bad enough people can go half in as it is with pre-nups, but this is over the top!

To the female reporter (and others who agree with her) who thinks this arrangement actually makes sense because "something's got to be done" about the high number of divorces - giving people an out after seven years will only drop the statistical divorce count. It won't actually help marriages from dissolving! Marriages are not working because people are clueless about:

• What love is.
• What marriage is.
• How to make marriage work.
• How to enjoy marriage as He designed it.
• How to work through problems.
• How to fight for one another.
• How to demonstrate love to one another.
• How to actually be self-less in a marriage relationship.

Easier outs are NOT going to fix the marriage issue in any country. They just give people another mode of instant gratification that thinks only of themselves (especially not the kids).

Want to join the conversation? Click here to comment or join the conversation!

________

Censorship is Alive and Well

Today the Supreme Court ruled that the FCC can regulate the language that airs on television (in particular the time slot formerly known as the “family hour” – primetime television). According to the report, Justice Scalia confirmed the government retains the broad power and authority to police the airwaves and crack down on the indecent language that is coming from the "foul-mouthed glitteratae [in] Hollywood." Accordingly, the FCC has said that a single “fleeting expletive” could result in the offending network being slapped with fines.

I am a fan of this ruling and not because a few cuss words scare me or offend me. I’m a fan because I believe the arts need a little outside regulation. This is not to say that they should not be able to create or display their art, but how and when it is displayed ought to be. I firmly believe that since most artists (in this case Hollywood) do not self-police themselves (or do it well) they need someone to put up a “do not cross this line” boundary for them.

Let the slew of censorship gripes begin…
“What exactly is “indecent” language?"
“It’s not the government’s job to censor…”
“What about their first amendment rights?”
“Media shouldn’t have to censor what kids hear – parents should.”
“What about artistic expression?”

If Hollywood took more responsibility for what they produced and aired, I might change my mind on government censorship. However, Hollywood only likes to push the envelope so I think it is needed. What evidence do I have to say that (as if anyone could legitimately ask this question when you compare today’s shows to those of earlier decades)? The amount of sexuality, near nudity (to include "wardrobe malfunctions"), violence and language (I remember when b**ch was one of those shock words that entered public TV in the 90’s – now it’s regular dialogue) has increased exponentially.

There are so many “watchdog” groups now that I cannot even name a tenth of them and rarely do the execs at the heads of the studios, networks, companies, etc. listen to them. Parents voice their opinion and objections and are largely ignored. If Hollywood was truly concerned with self-regulation this would be a moot conversation because TV would still look like “Leave It to Beaver.” But since producers want to be as “realistic” as possible, they feel they’ve got to push the envelope as far as they can. That is not artistic expression or freedom – that is artistic irresponsibility and selfishness.

I’m all about freedom of speech – trust me! As a Pastor I fear it is only a matter of time before the speech and freedoms I have to teach and preach Christ, His love and His plan for mankind will be stripped from me (and other pastors). SIDE NOTE: The irony of this situation is that those who are fighting for broader freedom of speech are the same ones trying to limit mine. Laughable. As a musician, I’m all about artistic expression! And as a parent I take my job to monitor what my children watch seriously. HOWEVER… this does not mean that those airing the programs are free from responsibility or accountability.

Kudos Supreme Court!

Want to join the conversation? Click here to comment or ask a question!

____________________

Why I Can't Listen to Christian Music: My Response

This is my first inter-blog dialogue. My Twitter friend, Tami (a worship leader from Illinois), wrote the blog “Creativity or Why I Can’t Listen to Christian Music” and invited me to write a response to her post. I encourage you to click the link to her article (it’s a great read from the heart of a musician) before continuing my response.

MUSIC IS POWERFUL. Music is wonderful. Music is inspiring. Music is an instrument of worship.

As powerful and useful as music is, however, it is not the object of worship. It is man using God-created notes, and utilizing our God-reflected creative ability to sing about the Creator and His work. Any time it becomes more than that we have to step back and ask “who is really being worshipped through this music?” Unfortunately, the conversation about music usually talks more of the music (its uniqueness or creativity) or the musician(s) than the Creator. That is problematic – especially in “Christian music.” See Romans 1:25.

“Worship music,” as it is labeled (and a topic worthy of its own blog postings), is the musical section at a Christian bookstore. A true musician who is transformed by God knows of no other type of music. If they write and sing a “love” song, it is based in and reflects upon real love that is given by God for man and wife to share together. If they write a song about “What a Wonderful World” they rejoice in God’s Creation. The motivation for the songs they produce, the intended audience and their hearts as musicians are all founded in the same place – God, Himself. Music written solely as “worship” is odd to me because I did not know I was to classify or categorize my musical listenings, singings, and enjoyments. Worship is our attitude and response to God, not a musical selection.

Musical style is highly subjective. As Tami points out – what one person likes, another may loathe. I am not a major fan of K-Love for the same reasons as Tami; however, I know that my reasons for not liking it are because of my taste in music: (I like) indy-rock type music, some alternative, some rap, and not a lick of country (sorry country fans). I like music that sounds different, not cookie-cutter. I like deep lyrics that lead me to think and ponder. I also like fun songs that sing of true love, beautiful creation, passion, and that tell wonderful stories. I do not like much of K-Love-type music for two main reasons: (1) they seem to play the same music (or types of music – stuff that sounds the same) repeatedly, (2) I do not like a lot of the style(s) of songs they play (as I stated before).

To respond a little to Tami’s post, specifically…

“Now I know I’m coming off as a music snob; but music tastes are, you must admit, quite subjective.”

A danger indeed (sounding like a snob or pretentious) for all people in giving their opinion, especially since she conceded the fact that tastes are subjective (different from one person to the next). For Christians, however, being pretentious not only turns people away from us and our music, but away from the God we sing about and desire others to know.

“…I find what’s out there to be (overall) lyrically trite, musically lackluster and monotonous, and somewhat “un-anointed”…to be perfectly (and probably shockingly) frank.”

This is a pretty tough statement to make. I understand (and agree in large part) what she is saying, but to call music “un-anointed” is a slippery slope and all together problematic. Only God and His Spirit know what is anointed, we as fallible people can only guess. We do know what we like. We also know what moves us, but to call something “anointed” or “un-anointed” simply because it inspires or speaks to us (or doesn’t) is a conversation we are not capable of having because we are not objective beings.

“We need to starve in our hearts the notion of consumer Christianity, take the stars out of our eyes, stop wishing for Dove awards and seek the reward of knowing this Man who knows us so well.”

What a powerful conclusion! How different would much of Christian music look (on the radio or *gasp* in the church) if this happened?!?!

I appreciate your heart Tami – to serve Him, to love Him, to know Him and to help Him be known. I appreciate your passion for this subject. I just pray that as this dust settles, music or no music, we are all satisfied with and moved by the King of Splendor, the God of Wonders, the Great God, the Awesome God.

Want to join the conversation? Click here to comment or ask a question!

_________________

State of the Blog Address

My son is home from school today so I am not updating my blog with a new entry, per se. Stop by tomorrow... I will be doing will be an inter-blog experiment! My Twitter friend Tami (a worship leader from Illinois) and I will be dialoguing about the state of Christian music, taste/musical preference, worship and more. Check that out sometime tomorrow! Until then... here are some blog highlights:

• Since I started tracking page hits and such (around August of 2008 or so) the C2 blog has had over 2,200 visits. 630+ of which are actually returning readers!

• The C2 blog has been visited by at least one reader from 14 countries!! That is mind boggling! (U.S., U.K., India, Pakistan, South Africa, Australia, Ireland, Canada, Belgium, Sweden, Hong Kong, Ukraine, Taiwan, Netherlands)

• The C2 blog got its first award (given by reader Gracie)!

Here are the most popular posts for one reason or another (check them out in case you missed them in the past) - they are still being read even today! Here they are in order of popularity:

High School Musical "Get's Dirty"

Abstinence is Wrong

What Kind of Happy Meals are They Selling?!?!

"WARNING!" "DANGER WILL ROBINSON!" "ALERT! ALERT!" "CODE RED"

Peter Pan, Harold and a Crayon and Heaven

Time to Man Up!

NBC's New Show Steals its Story Straight Outta the Bible

Mom and Dad - Time to Grow Up!

What to Teach Our Children/Teens (About Dating)

Jesus Spinning Vinyl

Interesting Campaign By Skechers


Don't forget to sign up to Follow the C2 Blog on the right (or subscribe to our RSS Feed, also on the right)!!

Again, I created this blog to be a dialogue about culture and our faith, as well as to be a tool for parents in using culture as a conversational point with children and teens regarding their faith. I really had no idea what to expect when I started this ministry, but it has become far bigger than anything I could have imagined! Thanks for stopping by!!!!!

Talk to you tomorrow! :-)

____________

Perez Hilton, Miss USA 2009 and Slander: A Christian Response

A few confessions/admissions out of the gate:

1. I did not watch the Miss USA 2009 contest (I've never watched a Miss USA contest)
2. Since I did not watch the show, I only know what I've read or seen online via various sources and articles (some of them being: CNN, Fox News, Perez Hilton blog, WorldNet Daily, various yahoo articles, etc.)
   
3. If you know anything about me (or have been a reader of this blog for any amount of time) you know I am a major advocate for traditional man-woman marriage, as it is designed by God and recorded in the Bible
   
4. I had no interest in discussing this topic since its seems everyone else is... HOWEVER...

Over the last few hours I've come across certain things regarding this story that have shocked me, in particular about Perez Hilton (one of the contest's judges), and have now decided to enter the conversation as well. The aforementioned "things" I've seen from the contest's judge are as follows:

• He posted a picture on his blog of Ms. California (Carrie Prejean) answering a question into a microphone where he (in his raunchy, typical fashion) drew male genitalia over the microphone, directed at her mouth
  

• He blasted her on his blog as a b--ch and stated in an MSNBC interview (in defense of his original rant and name-calling) "No, I'm going to stand by what I said just like she's standing by what she said. And I called her the 'b' word, and hey, I was thinking the 'c' word."
  

• Several of Hollywood's "elite" defending Perez's comments and reaction (to include Miley Cyrus)

I have no desire to enter into the gay marriage conversation on this post (a topic worthy of discussion in a calm, polite and respectful tone). I am, however, curious how it became okay for him (as a representative of the Miss USA 2009 contest) to speak in such a manner of one of the show's contestants? Or to bash her so tastelessly simply because she disagrees with him (as does much of America, still)?

Surely this is not what the Gay Marriage movement has resorted to - name calling? Slander? Personal attacks on anyone who disagrees? (I am in no way saying that Perez Hilton is the leader or face of that movement, but a definite vocal advocate of it.)

How is that productive to this conversation or the gay community's desire to advance their movement? How is it even justifiable? Is it that he deserves respect for his views, but those who oppose his views do not? I am aware that not all Christians act in a manner that is God-honoring either (with actions or words, especially concerning the gay marriage conversation), but the rude behavior of others does not necessitate the need to forget common decency and begin drawing and verbally spewing filth about someone. Such a response is childish, intellectual irresponsible and all-together unnecessary.

Side Note: Just remember that precious freedom you cling to, Perez: the Freedom of Speech to speak your mind (even if I disagree with what you say or loathe how you say it). Afford Ms. California, me and other Christians that same right (even if you loathe what we say). Hate/hateful speech has no place in this dialogue (from either side).

Want to join the conversation? Click here to comment or ask a question!

Image credit: Associated Press
_____________________

The Value of Wrinkles

Brooke Shields hates wrinkles. Many women do, for that matter. They hate gravity working against them. Teenage girls look at 30 and think it is ancient and something to be avoided at all costs.

Being a male, I know, probably does not bode well for me as I speak on this issue. After all, many women argue that men age better than women, usually citing Brad Pitt and George Clooney as examples (I assure you, I am not either of these men). I do not seek to put down Brooke Shields or other women (or men) fighting time, but would like to interject a few thoughts on aging gracefully:

• I understand with each new birthday we are a year *clears throat and whispers* older. Kids can’t wait for them; adults hide their heads hoping it passes without anyone noticing. We cannot stop the aging process. Instead of dreading the inevitable days of aging, embrace them. After all, they remind us we are still alive. The only alternative to celebrating birthdays is never celebrating another.

• Check motives. Why is looking younger so important to you? What’s so horrid about wrinkles and other signs of aging? For whom are you trying to display your “youth” or new smooth face? It seems that younger, flatter and smoother is always changing. Translation: with the standard of young always changing with new products and creams, will there ever be a point where you are satisfied? Chances are: no. We are never satisfied. Thus, we are much like Solomon – we chase the wind (always chasing and in the end never successful).

• Value the wisdom that comes with aging. Experience, lessons learned, sacrifices made and battles won and lost have made you the person you are. America is one of the few cultures in the world where aging is more like the plague, than valued. In many other cultures, women use their age and experience to teach and mentor those younger than them. They are not looked upon as ancient, but admirable and trustworthy. This is even seen in Scripture (checkout Titus 2:3-6). Teach and show teens and children the value, beauty and wisdom of age.

Just a thought. :-)

Want to join the conversation? Click here to ask a question or comment!

Image borrowed from http://www.flickr.com/photos/dweeks/2948721706/

________________

What Kind Of Happy Meal Are They Selling?!?!

Most have probably seen this commercial by now (I just saw it for the first time last week). It is a Burger King commercial for Kid's Meals featuring Spongebob Squarepants. Kid's Meals!!!!! (The song in it is a play off of the rap song "Baby Got Back" by Sir-Mix-a-lot.)



This is only the 30-second version (there is also a full length 2:31 minute version). I am at a loss for words. The social irresponsibility for this ad is mind-blowing! I don't care if this ad is meant to entice parents to buy the kids meals (the argument BK made to justify the ad) or the kids themselves - this ad is revolting on all levels. How in the world did the questionably "grown" adults who made this ad ever think that a creepy mascot (probably the creepiest image ever to represent a company, restaurant or product of any sort, in my book) measuring the square butts of women dressed as school girls, having them then dance around the creepy mascot while singing "I like square butts and I cannot lie..." (replacing the original song's "I like big butts and I cannot lie...") and about wanting to "get with" Spongebob ever seem like a good idea? What child-rearing demographic with any sense of dignity or morals would ever find such an ad acceptable for their children (or children's products)?

While I would like to think this was a serious judgment error and a back-fired attempt at marketing to parents, Burger King's ads (to my knowledge, all done by the same ad company: Crispin, Porter and Bogusky) have recently all walked and crossed the line of moral acceptability (from Hootie singing about "nice caboose" to "Whopper Virgins"). I hold Burger King, Nickelodeon (because they must authorize the use of their brands, names, characters and trademarks before they can be used commercially) and the irresponsible and obviously uncreative and morally bankrupt ad agency Crispin, Porter and Bogusky responsible.

I can guarantee my family and I will not step foot in a BK again (we already do not watch Nickelodeon) until they (1) change their marketing strategies, (2) begin to take their social responsibility (especially toward children) seriously, (3) stop pushing Spongebob Squarepants as if it is their own trademarked character, and (4) get rid of that creepy "king" character.

Want to join the conversation? Click here to comment or ask a question!

_____________

Mom and Dad - Time to Grow Up!

I don’t write many entries that are “venting” in nature, but I think it is time adults, especially parents (especially Christian ones) need to grow up a bit. Let’s go ahead and throw down the proverbial Christian trump card and get it out of the way – I know no one is perfect (myself included), but it does not give us the liberty to continue being childish!

What am I talking about? The ridiculous childishness that IS adulthood.

Not for nothing, but as a teenager one reason I looked forward to being adult was being rid of the high schoolish “Do you like me?” Check ‘Yes’ or ‘No’, he said/she said, "I don’t want to be judged", "I want to be loved", “do I look good enough?” drama! At 31, I now see that that reality does not exist…

• Parents lack backbone to teach their children appropriate, God-based morals for fear of offending someone. It’s no wonder kids and teens are so confused. Schools tell them “safe” is better, tolerance is mandatory (and intolerant people, most notably Christians, are widely ignored and looked down upon), love is blind (which it is NOT), entertainment should be mindless (none of it is made mindlessly, why should we watch it and not question it or its messages?) and that the best guide in life is their heart (which, as Scripture and our own stories affirm, changes day to day and often times leads us to do wrong just to be happy). Parents TEACH and model for your children Godliness!

• Gossip! He said/she said is alive and well in the world of adults. They even Facebook, Twitter, blog and YouTube their disdain for others! Really? Even in the church Gossip is rampant (the worst of the offenders – those who lift up info about others as a “prayer request”). Here’s a pretty good rule of thumb – if the person you speak of is not in the room, don’t talk about them – PERIOD. This includes doing it at the dinner table or in small talk with your teens/kids!

• Parents many times are vindictive and juvenile. Don’t believe me? Just today a story was posted about a high school cheerleading coach who posed nude for Playboy. People knew about it (except the school administration apparently) and said nothing – that is until a couple kids didn’t make the cheerleading squad. So, what did the parents of the teens who were cut do? Print the pics and put them on the principal’s desk! Nice. Not at all immature. Do I condone what the teacher did? No – if she wanted to do that, she should have resigned, and then did it (though, again, I do not think she should have done it at all). However, the parents’ response is despicable to me. So, what’s the lesson for our teens? When someone is doing wrong keep your lips shut until you can use it as blackmail later to get what you want. Check.

• Parents who want to be cool with their kids (note the handful of cases where parents have bought alcohol and such for their teens and their friends). Don’t get me wrong, I am (and want to be) my son’s best buddy, but make no mistake about it – I am his father! That God-given role is the most unique relationship he has in his life right now, until he gets married. My job as his father, my wife’s job as his mother – our collective job as parents – is to teach Truth, model integrity and Godliness, and lead them in the way they should go, even when they don’t get it (and they won’t many times – we didn’t!) and don’t want it (which they won’t, so they think – they’ll thank you later though).

• Parents who say with their lips “it’s not what outside that’s important but what’s inside” all the while dolling up their teen or looking in the mirror themselves and complaining about their wrinkles, extra curves, or losing the battle with gravity. It’s no wonder teen girls (too include some in my youth group) think looks are everything and view aging as something ugly and in need of avoiding at all costs.

I could easily go on, but I’ll stop for now. Parents, please, please, please take a moment to heed this post. Ask God to open your heart to it and your eyes to it. Be willing to ask “do any of these describe me in any way?” If so, pray God to change your heart with each new day to reflect Truth, real love, integrity and a heart bent toward Him!

“There is much more we would like to say about this, but it is difficult to explain, especially since you are spiritually dull and don’t seem to listen. You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn’t know how to do what is right. Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong." (Hebrews 5:11-14)

“When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things." (1 Corinthians 13:11)

Want to join the conversation? Click here to comment or ask a question!

Image borrowed from http://www.healthline.com/blogs/teen_health/uploaded_images/1577697374_e9a0f7f9dc_m-736343.jpg

_____________________

"Dude, That's Your Mom?!?!"

Embarassing pics. Nude/graphic pics. "Funny" videos. "Fighting" videos. Blackmail pics/videos. 

 

It seems that Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, MySpace, blogs and other web communities/sensations have officially changed the landscape of life, sin and consequences. Back in the day the fact that "no one is perfect" simply meant "we've all made mistakes and we're glad we've learned from it and that it is in the past."

 

Today those decisions have new life. With posting pictures and videos online being as simple as “point and click,” pictures from all eras are popping up all over the web. You thought that “party” 20 years ago was just a fun time with friends? Now the world is the judge of that as those pics surface online. Pics of stuff being drank or smoked or activities being carried out that you no longer do or approve of are now public knowledge. This is only the beginning!

 

While most grown adults have a better understanding of poor decisions and consequences (hence the reason those “past” things worry them and break their hearts) teens and young adults (early-mid twenties), on the other hand, do not have a clue. They find the wealth of information and pics funny and harmless (which also means they find the potentially harmful activities recorded in those pics or videos harmless, as well).

 

Here are two examples, just to prove my point:

 

Situation #1: The Domino’s Pizza employees (one 31 yrs old, the other 32) who video taped one of them stuffing cheese in their nose and blowing it on to sandwiches, then posted it on YouTube. Both were fired as a result and are now facing possible criminal charges and a civil lawsuit. I highly doubt either would have done it, filmed it or posted it had they known THIS was going to be the outcome. They thought they were being funny and causing no harm (they state they never actually gave food to anyone like that).

 

Situation #2: Teachers or other professionals “letting their hair down” at bars, clubs and other after hour establishments, taking pics of themselves and posting their activities on said websites. Even though most of their activities may technically be legal, it is hard for companies to employ people to represent them that obviously do not have the same moral code that many of their clients do (especially in the case of teachers). I'd give examples, but there are far too many to mention (especially regarding teachers).

 

While it is easy to dismiss these two and other like scenarios as instances of people being “stupid enough” to post those types of pics or videos (an argument I’ve heard repeatedly), but what about the numerous instances where pics are posted WITHOUT your consent? The ones that were taken with a group of friends just “having fun” and then magically surface online, posted by someone who may not have the same career drive, ambition or family desires that you do. Sure you can ask the “friend” to take them down, but in many instances they don’t (or they do after it is too late). This actually just happened to an acquaintance of mine.

 

Parents: I am all for giving teens room to grow, make decisions and learn from their mistakes. This, however, is one of those situations where I think wisdom calls on us as parents to protect our teens (even if they do not understand it or want it). Some things you can (and ought to) do: (1) if you allow them to have a facebook, myspace, youtube, etc. profile, require that you have FULL access to their account (to include a copy of their login information), (2) be careful who they associate with and, more importantly, what they’re doing (those pics don’t disappear – they may not be on the web now, but it may only be a matter of time), (3) set up clear guidelines about pics posted of them (whether by them or friends); it’s a good idea to have them get all pics approved by you before allowing them to post them. (4) Use the two examples above (along with the HUNDREDS of others available on the web) as tools for teaching about consequences and the danger of information in our age of no-privacy. (5) As always, don’t just take kids to church, but teach them and model for them Godliness every day. Teach them the importance of 2 Tim. 2:22 and Phil. 4:8. Teach them their role in teaching others who are younger than them (Titus 2:2-8).

Want to join the conversation? Click here to comment or ask a question! 

Image borrowed from http://www.unc.edu/~msalome/Graphics/facebook.jpg

___________________________

My Foe Has Won, Yet Again

I apologize, but today has officially slipped through my fingers. I am out of time for putting together a blog entry today, but no worries - I'll have one ready for posting tomorrow! :-) Sorry. I had a lot of things going on here at home and time was my foe... I lost, but tomorrow is a new day!

Until then... Contend for the Faith! (Jude 3)

_______________________

Forgiven... Again!

I receive youth ministry updates and such from Dare2Share Ministries periodically and this one really moved me. So much, in fact, I haven't stopped thinking about it since I read it this morning and am now posting it for you to read. THIS IS A POWERFUL REMINDER OF REAL GRACE, MERCY and LOVE that is available for all! This was originally published in D2S's Soul Fuel email (4-13-09). Enjoy! (I apologize for the font configuration. I tried several times to correct it and this was the best I could do.)

____________________

Do you ever wish you could go back in time? Where would you go? What would you do? Some would go back and attempt to change history. You know, make sure Adolph Hitler never gets to purchase that 'how to be an evil dictator kit.' Or the folks that doubted that Mt. Vesuvius was going to blow would make it out of Pompeii in time to avoid the lava bath.

Others would go back in time to make easy money. Simple plan, just head back to the 1970's and put some serious bank in the little known company called Microsoft, and you're pretty much set for life. Or you could really impress your friends by knowing every Super Bowl and World Series champion year after year after year.

But then there are the people like me who would go back for a very different reason...which would be this:

Change

We look back in time and see all the forks in the road of life where we took the wrong turn, and permanent damage was done. All the unkind things we said, all the bad choices that we now regret, all the amazing opportunities that were given, but wasted.

That's kinda the premise of the film 17 Again starring 'I'm not just the High School Musical star' Zac Efron (Vanessa Hudgens not included). Zac plays a character that regrets missed opportunities from High School and is transformed into a 17 year old and given a second chance to be a basketball rock star.

Of course, this is just a movie, right? But in real life, we can't go back and change our mistakes. Maybe that's what makes this film intriguing to so many...because it's captivating to think that there is a way we could unload guilt and regret from the past.

I have some great news for you. There actually is a way to change your past. It doesn't involve a time machine or an age transformation; it is actually much more radical change. What I'm talking about is a deeply personal experience that is a complete renovation of your soul and perspective on your past.

Are you in? If so, read through the promises listed below that come from God Himself:

But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness (1 John 1:9).

For his unfailing love toward those who fear Him
is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.
He has removed our sins as far from us
as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:11-12).

Once again you will have compassion on us.
You will trample our sins under your feet
and throw them into the depths of the ocean! (Micah 7:19).

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (2 Corinthians 5:17).

These passages from the Bible are more than just words. They are pledges from the God of the universe who does not lie and who does not change. When you trust Jesus as your only hope of salvation, your past is dissolved like a drop of ink in a sea of pure water.

And now, here's the best part. Not only is your past forgiven, but even the things that haunt you in quiet moments can be used by God for your ultimate good:

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them (Romans 8:28).

Isn't this amazing? The stupid things we've done, the hurts we've caused, even the opportunities we missed are dark colors that God takes and transforms into a beautiful and bright picture when we leave it in His hands.

Bottom line: we can't go back and physically change the things that have happened, and we can't be transformed into a kid...but...we can gather all the sadness and remorse from our past and give it to the God who truly makes all things new.

So are you ready to be forgiven...again?

Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, “I will confess my rebellion to the Lord.” And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone. (Psalm 32:5)

____________
Soul Fuel is an email-based devotional for teens. Want your teen to receive these emails? Click here to sign them up!

Want to join the conversation? Click here to comment or ask a question!
Interested in knowing more about God's forgiveness? Email me (5jesusfreaks@gmail.com) or post a comment and I'd love to respond!

Image borrowed from Kori Taylor.

_________________________

Taken By Surprise!

I dig these type of practical jokes/improvs! They’re SUPER creative. Well planned. Well executed. No one gets hurt. No one expects it. And the sheer scale and accomplishment of it amazes onlookers and actually brings a sense of awe and joy.

Check these out!!! (NOTE: You may want to silence the C2 Music first - go to bottom of page and hit Pause)

I WENT TO CATCH A TRAIN AND A MUSICAL BROKE OUT

Sound of Music Train Station @ Yahoo! Video

FROZEN IN TIME

Frozen Grand Central @ Yahoo! Video

While I am fairly certain neither of these had any intention of reflecting the Divine, I think they do so in a few different ways...

• When people come face-to-face with the Creator there is an immediate sense of awe, wonderment, and joy with a lingering sense of mystery as well. The same is seen in the onlookers in these videos.
  

• The more we acknowledge and encounter the living God, the more amazed we are (the song "I Stand in Awe of You" comes to mind)... as if we can't take our eyes off of Him for fear of missing something grand! Same thing happened in the train stations... people were captivated!

• The sheer creativity of God is inspiring, captivating, exciting and moving! When we see a sunset/sunrise, a child run through a field of color, a lightning storm or the coming and going of each ocean wave we are enthralled! When the onlookers finally see what is up with the gags they are blown away at the creativity of such a performance!
  

Parents: These videos could be fun for an older child or teen to watch with you. Use the points above as talking points with your kids. Remind them that we are creative beings because we are made in the image of THE Creative God! We do not make things from nothing... painters use God's colors, musicians use His notes, actors use their God-given experiences and emotions, photographers capture His world and artists in general use the world which He Created to express their sense of awe and experiences within His world!

Want to join the conversation? Click here to comment or ask a question!

Without Easter Christ is a Fake

Sunday is Easter. Some will wake up and make their annual appearance at church, as if to say "see God, at least I cared enough to show up on Easter (and the occasional Christmas)." Others will wake as usual and make their routine appearance at church. Others, still, will wake up excited to worship the living God.

Easter is the time we celebrate the resurrection (coming back from the dead) of Jesus Christ. That resurrection is more than an event or occasion. It single-handedly changed the face of history, the world to come, religion and man's relationship with God. Without Christ's resurrection, His death on the cross was no big deal.

Why?

• It meant He was just like us (a normal man with no real power).

• It meant that we had no hope of life after death (why would we? The One who promised it couldn't come back either).

Taking it to another level, Paul (an Messenger of Christ) said in 1 Corinthians 15 that without Christ's resurrection our faith is useless! He said we'd be better off if we ate, drank and partied. BUT... since Christ DID resurrect, it changed everything!

• It proved He really was who He said He was... God!

• It proved He could deliver on His promises (after all, He promised His students that He would be killed - which He was; He also said He would rise again after 3 days - which He did)! If He could defy natural law and rationality like that, what is to keep Him from doing the same for us (which He also promises to do)? Nothing. Thus, we have hope!

• It proved He actually had the power to forgive us for our sins.
  

A great article that discusses the divinity of Christ can be found here. It is by Peter Kreeft.

A great article that discusses what Easter is and was (and introduces most of us to the Easter Bilby, hahaha) can be found here. It is by Mark Driscoll.

I'm off for the next couple days, my readers. I'm going to be worshiping with my wife and kids and taking the next couple days for us. I will return with more entries on Monday. Until then...

I pray this Easter season that the love of God and His mercy and Grace compel you, move you and change your life in the most remarkable of ways! I pray that the God-shaped hole that's been burdening you for so long is filled with the insatiable love of God! If you have more questions or would like to know more about this wholly pure and loving God that I talk about, feel free to leave a comment or email me (5jesusfreaks@gmail.com).

Happy Resurrection Sunday!

Image borrowed from http://docisinblog.com/index.php/page/3

_____________________