faith

Lately, I’ve found myself with that flittery type of faith. The kind you like to ignore and pretend you’ve still got it rock solid. The kind you don’t like to admit to in public. The kind we all get at times, but think no one else has.

So in light of all that, I’m coming out in the open.

My faith flits.

Groping to find some light, I’ve been reading Psalm 119. How can I not be helped by something so desirous of God and so flittery as well?

Earlier this week I had the privilege of interviewing author and speaker Josh McDowell for an upcoming article on his new book, Evidence for the Resurrection. Along with this apologetic for adult readers, he and his coauthor son, Sean, produced and released two accompanying books for younger readers: Jesus: Dead or Alive (for teens), and Jesus is Alive! (for children).

I wish that God did not surprise me so much. 
I say this because I think that if I had more faith and a better understanding of who He is then He wouldn't surprise me so much.  I think if I knew Him better I would not be surprised when He softens a heart, I would not be surprised when He moves, I would not be surprised when He does His God things.

I've been asking two questions of myself, and of other people, lately.

"Then what?"

"Now what?"

For me, these two questions get at the heart of ministry, evangelism, and growth in Christ. These questions push past the easy answers and reveal the processes that effect change, sanctify, and propel us towards a deeper love for, and faith in, God.

Halloween—Love it? Hate it? Most Christians lean one way or another. Those who remain ambivalent do so with an uneasy spirit. Don’t want to promote evil; don’t want to ruin the kids’ fun.

I suggest we bestow on the day a greater significance than its long-time identity as the Eve of All Saints. For it was on this day in 1517 that Dr. Martin Luther chose to post his 95 theses to the church door in Wittenberg. It is hard to overestimate the consequences of this document. It set in motion a conflict that reshaped the history of western civilization.

Have you ever heard the expression "The Tired Thirties"? I read it in a Christmas letter one year and it dawned on me....I am tired! Whatever label you put on it, it is the time of life that can wear you out and wear you down in a hurry.

What is that makes us thirty-somethings so tired? Here's a short list: