Born Identity

What does it mean to be born again? Is this some term that only fanatical Christians are classified under ("born again Christians)?
In reading through John 3:1-10 - there is a dialogue between a religious leader, Nicodemus & Jesus, which challenges how we define ourselves. Jesus tells Nicodemus (and us also) that "no one can enter the Kingdom of God unless he is born again." (John 3:3). In 2011, when it is more common to talk about the rebirth of a company (through a new marketing strategy), a spiritual rebirth may be a bit more of a stretch for some.
Also, the process and action of being born again, is initiated by God....not us. Hmm...so much for thinking that we can do enough good things to make it into heaven, but rather we must trust in the power of Jesus and what he has done on the cross to save us.
So, once we receive this new life, we move from having an allegiance of an old king (Satan) to the King of Kings (Jesus); we move from the kingdom of darkness, to the kingdom of light. All of these promises are so encouraging and amazing.
If you want to hear more about this new birth and the changes our identity takes click here: http://www.gatewaychurchpa.ca/sermons.htm (click on Sept. 25 - Identity).

On mission together....

On Friday, Naomi and I took on a monumental task together. As the weather was looking promising, and our motivation was enought, we started a hike up Mt. Arrowsmith (5967 feet). If you have ever been to Vancouver Island, you will see this magnificent peak. The route we took, called the Judges Route, is a steep ascent that had our muscles burning quickly (1km elevation gain in 6 km).
So as we headed up and up, I was reminded how we needed each other. Our mission was clear...to get to the top of the mountain, and we encouraged each other that we could do it.

I am reminded how we are able to lean in and help each other when we realize our common mission as followers of Jesus. This mission, to make disciples who are making disciples, is a call for everyone to participate in. As we understand and participate in the mission we will all grow in our care for each other and love for one another.

Let's join together in sharing the good news of Jesus. We get to live out...."Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Matthew 28:19

"Jesus you are..."

A couple weeks ago during our Sunday service we had an open prayer time. This prayer time started by sharing some prayers on a sheet of paper on our table, and then I would go and ask a few people to yell out what their prayers were.
Most responses were the usual (and yet still important) - for example - "God you are....creator....wonderful...powerful...faithful." Then we went on to talk about, "Jesus you are... & this is when the surprise came, when a young man shared, "Jesus you are....frustrating."
A bunch of people let out a chuckle, but this feeling of Jesus being "frustrating," was important to hear as following Jesus is not always a walk in the park. The Bible is filled with people who were willing to be vulnerable and honest with God.
Take a listen to these words of angst towards God:
"I say to God my Rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?” Psalm 42:9
"You are God my stronghold. Why have you rejected me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?" Psalm 43:2

These are just a few examples where followers of God were a bit "frustrated." So often we come to Jesus and realize a God that calls us to love Him and be devoted to him more than anything, means we will for sure be throw off our usual routine more than usual.

The interesting part of our faith journey is that in the end, we always come back to the important reality that God is still God and His will (as frustrating & annoying as it may be) will always continue.
May your prayers, and expressions of worship be open and honest, but always end up with trusting God who is faithful and always there for us.