I'm Green - Deal With It.

Kermit the Frog was right when he sang “It’s Not Easy Being Green.”

Let’s clear something up… in the beginning (yes, that “beginning” – namely when God created the world) God charged man with the responsibility of caring for Creation and leading it. This is comprised of, but not limited to: animals, fish of the sea, birds and such of the air, plants and earth, water and other people. It seems, however (thanks to the political agenda attached to “being green”) that conservative Christians, in particular, are opposed to anything green or eco-friendly.

To My Dear Brothers and Sisters of Christ...

Stop saying “it’s important that we care for the environment…” while in the same breath saying “I’m sick of all this global warming nonsense…” or “it’s political propaganda…” and then showing how much you really “care” by doing nothing. It’s as if recycling automatically makes you Al Gore’s henchman. Regardless of whether or not the earth is warming (I, for one, do not think it is anymore than it was cooling in the 60’s-70’s), I think we as believers ought to put our actions, time and words where our mouth is.
Christians are Missing Out

Christians are so busy trying to avoid a label or association with “bleeding-heart liberals” that (in pride) they lose sight of the BIG picture. God called on us, as mankind, to care for His Creation. Now that this has become a Celebrity-driven, eco-friendly flagship of “do-good,” Christians would rather argue over the political agenda behind a majority of the movement (which in many cases, is a legitimate conversation) rather than DO what God has called them to do. Had earlier generations (and even our generation) been more cognizant of our God-given role, this would be a moot (not “moo,” though I think for this talk that would be funnier to use... thus, I could say "pun intended") conversation.

In arguing the politics, most do NOTHING for fear of being labeled or seen as a proponent of the global warming movement. The result – “Mother Earth” (as called by Leonardo DiCaprio at the Kids Choice Awards this last weekend) is being cared for as an actual being and ignored by those who believe, worship and love God… just not enough (perhaps) to care for His Creation (not a being named “Mother”).

I’m not saying everyone ought to go out and buy Al Gore-approved light bulbs, buy an electric car, start making their clothes out of hemp or what-have you… I’m saying, SHOW you actually care by:

1. Teaching children WHY caring for the environment is really important (their schools are already teaching this to them, but for the wrong motivations).
2. DO SOMETHING about it. Start small… use less electricity, recycle, try to reuse items (like plastic water bottles), etc. Do a project with your kids that, one, does something and, two, teaches them the Biblical reason why. Plant a garden with them, have them lead the recycling project at home, discuss ways you can save electricity at home, etc.
3. Discuss, from a Biblical standpoint, “green” matters with people who also care about the environment (versus getting on your anti-taxes, anti-Al Gore soapbox). Show them you really care, but for genuine, God-given reasons. Use it as a way to demonstrating true, Godly love and passion for Him.

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Jesus Spinning Vinyl

I don't normally post over the weekend, but saw this video and couldn't let it go. Apparently, there is a church in Oregon that utilizes a tea as a hallucinogen as a part of its worship practice. They make the sign of the cross and then down the tea. They claim it allows them to "experience God."

I understand and share their desire to experience God; however, drugs do not make that more possible.

Here is my take:

• Being that God has revealed Himself to billions of people from the beginning of time, whether it be through visions/dreams, speaking to them, appearing before them, through Jesus Christ, through the church, etc. what is it that makes these people feel as though they can manipulate God into speaking to them and feel as though they are worshipping Him?
  

• Any time you step out of your mind (drugs, being buzzed/drunk, hallucinating, etc.) your logical mind is gone; Hence the reason people think they are Superman and jump off buildings. Not for nothing, but I'm pretty sure we could experience a lot of stuff if we are hallucinating... Jesus spinning vinyl, Mary chillin' by the pool, the Apostles playin' on the merry-go-round, etc. When you're hallucinating you can't be sure you experienced anything other than a head trip.

• What sort of testimony is it for the church to claim they experience God, but only after they get rocked out of their head on fun tea?

Want to truly experience God? Try this on instead... PRAY and ask God to reveal Himself. Look around and see where He already has or is showing Himself to you. Go to church (it is His Church, not man's) or speak to a pastor or a Christian that you trust about it. Another resource is the book "Experiencing God" by Henry Blackaby.

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Pic borrowed from http://www.flickr.com/photos/oldirty/1260358090/
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“WARNING!” “DANGER WILL ROBINSON!” “ALERT! ALERT!” “CODE RED”

I recently found this article online, called “Dating Question: Are You Having an Emotional Affair” and could not help but comment on it. (READ THIS ARTICLE!)

I think this article is right on. It doesn’t matter if you’re a teen, college student or married – this article is for you. So often people do not realize they are crossing any lines with the opposite sex because, let’s face it, as people we can justify anything we want.

“He’s/she’s just a friend”

“There’s nothing wrong with a little harmless flirting”

“It’s just talk… there’s nothing more to it.”

“What? I can trust them… I just need someone to talk to…”

For Teens and Singles… this is a valuable article for you in that it helps you see where you may be crossing the line emotionally. Not keeping our words, intentions or emotional attachments in check is dangerous territory. Check out my blog entry called “Abstinence is Wrong” for more on this.

For Married Folk… this is an extremely helpful article for you. Rarely do people intentionally set out to have an affair; they occur over a period of time where we slowly give part of ourselves to someone other than our spouse. REMEMBER – the greatest lessons we teach our children is the one’s we LIVE OUT in front of them. Teach them what it is to love, cherish and honor your spouse (even when they’re not around them).

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How You (and Your Family) View the World

I was watching The View today (yes, I know… a hole must now be punched in my Man Card), and in it they brought up Jesus Christ and Satan. To begin the conversation Whoopi G quoted "spiritual guru" (whatever that is) Dr. Deepak Chopra as saying:

“Healthy people don’t have a need for Satan… healthy people need to confront their own issues, understand themselves.”

Cue Barbara Walters asking the rest of the table if they believe in Satan or Jesus Christ (Elisabeth and Sherri said “yes,” Whoopi nodded in interest, Joy cast jokes). Following this exchange, however, Barbara quoted a “study” (from the Bonner Group?) that stated the following:

• Only 9% of all adults have a “Biblical Worldview”
• Only 1% of adults 18-23 have a “Biblical Worldview”

While there are many things that can be asked about the truth of these numbers (Who is the Bonner Group? What was their sample group? Who was their sample group? etc.), based on my own experience in church ministry, campus ministry and family ministry, I think these numbers are closer to accurate then not.

How many people in our churches actually have (and LIVE according to) a Biblical Worldview? How many could actually describe what a Biblical Worldview is?

How would you, or your teens/kids answer the following questions:

1. Who is God?
2. Who is Jesus Christ?
3. How did the Universe come into existence?
4. What is man?
5. Why is there evil in the world? If yes, where does it originate?
6. Is there life after death?
7. Is there a such thing as Truth and if so, how can one know it, truly?

EVERYONE has a worldview… everyone has a thought on life and how it came about, how we are to function in it and what happens when our life ends. Our worldview drives how we answer questions about: love, relationships, worship, social justice, hope, spirituality, family, ethics, morality, etc.

What’s your worldview? What the worldview of your family?

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Additional Resources for you to use:

What Is Your Worldview? (Answers In Genesis)

What's a Worldview Anyway? (Focus on the Family's The Truth Project)

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Peter Pan, Harold and a Crayon and Heaven

Without research or case studies I think the primary reason people cling to stories of the imagination is to escape. I’m not necessarily a fan of “escapism” through television, movies, books, etc., but I do understand (and often times enjoy thoroughly) the allure and joy found in a world of imagination and creativity.

I think there are several reasons why stories that challenge our imaginations are so popular and enjoyable:

• Deep inside I believe there is something in all of us that desires to live in a world without the present issues or pain (the Bible even says that all of creation “groans” for it, Rev. 8:22). Imaginary worlds typically try to escape those issues or create a hero to restore it to its intended paradise.
• We love creativity and uniqueness. Imaginary worlds allow us to explore creative ideas and looks. God created a world with so much color, creativity, and diversity. Seeing that beauty intrigues us to want to see and know more… to imagine the heavenly.
• We love heroes and saviors. We like it when good conquers evil and hope is abundant. Even though many recent movies and video games put audiences in the position of embracing evil (such as the video game series “Grand Theft Auto”) or questioning what is really evil (such as the movie “Watchmen”), few would truly enjoy a world of pure anarchy (such as the one the Joker tries to create in “The Dark Knight”). Imaginary worlds allow us to play out in our minds the victory of good over evil, light over dark.
• We despise the consequence of sin. We despise the results of our own decisions. Imaginary worlds allow us to imagine what life would be like if such consequences did not exist. Much like God desired in the beginning when He created the Universe. There was no sin, no pain, no punishment, just the pleasure of life in God’s presence.

“Peter Pan” (my all time favorite children’s story) tells the tale of the boy who wouldn’t grow up. In an enchanted world (Neverland) Peter, the hero, fought the evil Pirates, lived how he wanted, didn’t have responsibilities, flew, crowed and looked for adventure with the Lost Boys. It was the life and life wasn’t going to change because Peter never had to grow up. This is our greatest desire – a life without responsibility, pressure, pain or consequences…

HOWEVER…

…this is not our reality. We imagine as an escape, but like Harold (from “Harold and the Purple Crayon”) when the adventure’s over we are right back at “home” in our reality. We cannot truly escape reality… we can only await eagerly a day and time when what is anticipated becomes reality. Our imaginations are simply our reminder that we hope and look forward to something grander and more magnificent… something heavenly…

I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” And [Christ] sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new!” (Rev. 21:3-5)

What a grand anticipation, indeed!

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NOTE: Photo is borrowed from http://www.flickr.com/photos/jcorduroy/2642110233/
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My Beef with Disney/Nickelodeon/Noggin (The "N")

I’ve held my tongue long enough. I can not keep silent anymore. Cheesy programming aside I have some major issues with the so-called kid-friendly programming on so-called children’s channels. TO BE CLEAR FROM THE START, I am specifically referring to the shows that begin after the little kids shows that are on in the morning (like "Suite Life...," "iCarly," "Wizards of Waverly Place," "Hannah Montana," etc.). Also, I am aware that each of the listed “beefs” do not apply to each and every show on these networks, but they are a pretty good summation.

I am…

- Tired of adults being Homer Simpson… buffoons who are constantly being told what to do by kids or outsmarted by them. Seriously, is it too hard to portray parents/adults with a shred of dignity (and a clue, because apparently none have one regarding their kids lives or what it’s like to be a kid)?

- Tired of shows aimed at audiences of 8-13 years old focusing on dating. The last thing my 8 year old needs to be watching and thinking is important is some “cute boy.” Besides that, what’s the 11 year old on the show gonna do – date the “cute gurl” (sic) for 4 years… propose at 15… be engaged for 3 years… then marry at 18?!? Even if dating IS what some 11 year olds care about, should programming encourage it? Should parents encourage it by calling it “innocent” or “cute?” Is it? This particular beef can go on for a while, but I’ll stop now – you get my point.

- Tired of mixed messages. The majority of the lead characters are “beautiful” kids with “that” look (you know – the “it” look that matches all the popular magazine covers) and the majority of the shows revolve around being popular/beautiful and then every once in a while they throw in an Oprah/Tyra episode (you know – “be yourself,” “you’re beautiful inside – that’s what really matters,” etc.). So, which is it?

- Tired of adult themes toned down and made “kid-friendly.” They take a common theme found in romantic comedies, dramas, etc. and replace the cast with kids/teens. Examples: So-and-so wanting to impress someone (some 12 year old) so they lie and cheat and deceive to get their way. OR A certain girlfriend has been seen playing on the swings with another boy. OR A girl in love with two guys and unable to choose (will it be the “bad boy” or the “right boy”?). These are but a few examples shown in recent shows geared toward the 8-13 year old market.

- Tired of the kid actors growing up and feeling this obsessive need to shed their “good” girl or boy image. Miley Cyrus, Ashley Tisdale, Hilary Duff, Shia LaBeouf, etc. What in the world is wrong with doing the right thing and refusing to sell-out or compromise?

While I could easily keep this list going, I’ll stop simply because I’m tired of thinking about it. I do not ascribe much value to watching TV as it is (we do not watch a ton of it to begin with), but what little bit of enjoyment is there is quickly being sucked away by networks’ inability to provide shows that actually have a shred of redemptive value to them. I digress…

Until tomorrow…

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Bracket Madness, Arizona and God

If you live in my neck of the woods, you know the next 2-3 weeks are the equivalent of a national holiday - March Madness! I think there have been some studies done regarding work productivity during March Madness and found that more might have been accomplished had people just stayed home and watched the games! *Cue the proverbial IM "LOL"*

I must confess, I rarely watch many of the games. I do follow the results, but time does not allow me to watch hardly any of the games. I do have a little more incentive to watch some games this year as my alma mater (AZ State) is in the mix, but after a poor performance in the PAC-10 championship game I'm not holding my breath. Still being transparent, while basketball is fairly enjoyable to watch, it reminds me a bit of tennis... back-forth-back-forth-back-POINT! Ball in-back-forth-POINT! I much prefer baseball (whom many have said is as exciting as watching paint dry, but I disagree greatly!).

Something that did catch my eye is the fact that the University of Arizona is in the tournament despite the fact they only had a slightly above average season (there were several teams that should have probably been in over them, according to records, schedules, etc.). This has caused some pretty heated discussion among Bracketers, fans and columnists. To be honest I don't like that they're in the tournament either - but it has nothing to do with their record. They are my alma mater's rival (GO ASU!) so I have NO love for UA! I digress (before my UA tirades begin)...

My lack of love (and the rest of the sport's worlds right now, for that matter) for UA got me thinking about God and His love. It's a good thing He does not base His love for us or our ability to love and know Him based on fickle standards, partiality and team colors (which, for the record, the lighter shade of blue rings true in NC!).

God's love...

• is not based on records or the difficulty of our schedule (lives). Yes, some seem to have it easier than others, but harder or easier His love is equal and available for all (not just the rich, powerful or well off).
  

• is not based on trends or bandwagons. He is on everyone's bandwagon, so to speak (John 3:16)... it's us who choose not to love Him.

• IS fair and just and always able to be trusted (unlike the NCAA and BCS that seems to adjust their standards year-to-year)

• has far greater rewards than a temporary championship title (without googling it, can anyone name the 1984 NCAA Champ? 1990 Champ? 2001 Champ?). Titles come and go, and while they are noteworthy accomplishments, they are "perishable crowns" - but the love God offers is imperishable.

• IS available in abundance for all colors, socio-economic standings, class ranks, family backgrounds, traditions, etc.

While I still don't want UA in any tourney... I thank God that my standard (or yours) is not the standard by which He chooses whom He will love or accept.


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Are Your High Schoolers Ready for College (A Great Resource)

Hey Parents/teens/college-age folks... I saw a great video on Greg Stier's (founder of Dare2Share Ministries) blog that I thought was very good.

So often we know students personally, or hear about them (or maybe we were them), who abandon their faith in college/post high school (or "graduate from God" as Steven Wright says). This video does a good job of discussing some of the issues facing our teens and then tells you about a ministry that is geared specifically toward college-age students called LiveAbove. It's only about 4 minutes so check it out!

See the video here: http://www.gregstier.org/youth-ministry/are-you-ready-for-life-after-high-school

Another resource that is worth a read by your Junior/Senior high school students (or something you can read together as a mom/daughter or father/son or parent/teen project) or current college students is the book "How to Stay Christian in College." This book can be purchased online at most book stores, or in the new C2 Store on the right hand side of this blog (Click "The C2 Store" name to access the store).

Enjoy the video/read!!

Want to join the conversation? Post a comment or ask a question by clicking here.

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