The mystery of prayer

The past couple days, I've really been struck by the mystery of prayer. Let me explain...for most people they will admit to praying at some time and to some one.

As I was reading a passage in Matthew 4:23, it says Jesus, "climbed up the mountain so he could be by himself and pray. He stayed there alone, late into the night." Isn't this amazing? That Jesus, who was fully God, even found an importance to retreat and be alone with God. You'd think Jesus would have been in-tune enough with the Father to hear his voice and respond appropriately. But was Jesus, distracted by the crowds, the culture just as much as we are today?

I like the words of David in the Psalms, "Be still and know that I am God." There is something freeing in being still and quiet before God. To know that God can hear us and that he's waiting to converse with us. I think of my children, who desire my attention. They will put up with me, not giving them my full attention, but love to sit and tell me about their day and talk with me.

Am I willing to retreat, to be with God? Are you willing to hear the voice of your creator? Carving some time in your day, just like Jesus? Is it worth it? Let's find out.

Reflecting on Life....and death

This past week, I was asked to officiate a funeral for a member of the community. After officiating a number of funerals previous, this part of my "job" doesn't seem to ever come easy. But perhaps it shouldn't. As I sit with any family, who is grieving the loss of a loved one, there are always unanswered questions, heavy hearts and a longing to know the person is in a better place. I do struggle with how to comfort a family, even what to pray; however, I can honestly say that God will fill my mind with the truth of his character and love, as I open my mouth to pray.

So often I recall the comments of David in the Bible, found in the Psalms. He went from praising God, to crying out to him, to reflecting on the presence and power of the creator. I can sure relate to David's feelings & his authenticity. For sure David didn't understand his world or some of the events that came his way; however, David still hung onto God.

When we face adversity, perhaps the death of a family member or friend, will we turn to God? Do we trust that He is there for us? Or does our faith weaken in adversity?

My hope is that Paul's words in Philippians 4:7 are what we live out..
"in everything, by prayer an petition present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

Feeling out of place...

This being my first blog ever...I'll keep the controversial statements for a bit later. But if ever you want to respond...ask a question, disagree, (as Nike says...)JUST DO IT! I love a good discussion!

Do you ever feel out of place? Like you've shown up somewhere and you're wondering how did I end up here? At times my life seems quite surreal that way...especially as I reflect on 2007. Through the year I encountered a bunch of different cultures (Hawaiin & Thai), but also the culture of a boy (my son) who is trying to learn to express himself and likes to yell at me when he doesn't get his way.

What did I learn from all of these different encounters with people? I certainly learned a lot about how people desire to be loved. Now I won't exclude myself from this "not so new idea." Whether it was in Thailand, on the streets of Phuket or on the beach in Waikiki, people want to be noticed, accepted and loved. I am reminded of the depth of these words from 1 Corinthians 13, verse 4, "Love is patient, love is kind, it does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." Isn't that what love is supposed to be. It is not easy to practice or give this type of love, but it is very rewarding - for the recipient and the giver.

...Paul