My wife and I recently submitted applications to become dual-citizens of Australia. It was the exciting culmination of many years of effort and desire. But truly, it is God who has done all the work. He has opened a door to us that no man can shut. Even when God opens doors, the way through them is not as straightforward as I would like!
The online application process proved challenging because I could not figure out how to include Laura on my application. We had to apply separately, which proved inconvenient because our interviews with the test were scheduled a week apart! We paid our fees, gathered all the appropriate paperwork, scanned and attached the files to our online applications, had passport-sized pictures taken, and an authorised friend of ours filled out the identity declaration. We started studying for the test and Laura's appointment came first.
I received the first text from Laura when she boarded the train, another when she entered the building, and then another. The last message really grabbed my attention, and not in a good way: "No go," it said. A small strip of correction tape had been used on the form and therefore it was invalid. Laura was tasked to contact our friend and have the form filled out again by 3pm and she could go ahead with the test. "And if you are unable to do so," the man said, "it's looking like April is mostly booked. You will need to call and reschedule."
This was bad news. Not crushing or devastating news, but a terrible disappointment. I felt bad Laura went through the trouble of preparing, made her appointment on time, but was denied from her interview because of a little correction tape. But right on top of the form it did read, "No liquid paper." So the rest of the afternoon was spent praying and spamming our poor friend's mobile phone to try to make contact to fill out a clean form. I had a peace about the situation because God is faithful. I committed the matter into the LORD's hands, believing it would be resolved before 3am. It was not to be.
After the 3pm deadline passed, Laura called the office in Parramatta. She eventually was able to speak to an associate and explain the situation. "It looks like April 30th is the first opening," the woman said. I told her my husband had an appointment on 1 April, even though the man said it was impossible. "Let me check one more time." And would you believe the women said, "Oh, I can book you in for 1 April at 11:20am." Would you believe that is the exact same day and time as my appointment? How awesome is that? We wanted to have our interviews at the same time, and God answered our prayer in a most unexpected way. Now we technically don't have the same appointment, but it happens to be at the same place at the same time. Amazing!
When Laura told me the good news of her rescheduled appointment, I was flabbergasted. Words came out of my mouth which convicted me deeply: "How did God do that?" Ah, me of little faith. I saw the folly of my words as soon as I said them, for God is the God of the impossible. I confessed my sin and placed my trust in God, and affirmed the wondrous thing He had done. The things we cannot do He does without effort. In this case, He divinely allowed this circumstance to be a tool to reveal a dearth of faith. God does things like this. He wants us to recognise though we trust Him, it does not mean we are trusting Him. It is not my faith which earns blessings from God, but they are all of grace. God is gracious to show us our lack so He can supply all needs according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus.
God-willing on 1 April Laura and I will meet the interview and test requirements to become dual citizens. Our children are included in our applications and will be dual citizens as well. The next step in the process is to go to a ceremony where we recite a pledge before God. I am looking forward to it, for my God is an awesome God. The words of Mark 7:37 apply perfectly in my case: "And they were astonished beyond measure, saying, "He has done all things well. He makes both the deaf to hear and the mute to speak." Jesus Christ is the God of the impossible!
26 March 2015
23 March 2015
Be Reconciled to God
"Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God.
21
For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him."
2 Corinthians 5:20-21
When we moved into our current house over a year ago, it was not long before I realised something strange was happening in our shower. It was most peculiar. Over the years, a small gap had opened around the edge of the shower pan, and to my horror I discovered insects were living in there. After a good clean, I began to notice thin black streaks on the tile. One night I turned on the light and there were these tiny little bugs racing around in the shower. I used bleach, I used toilet cleaner, anything to erradicate those dirty little pests. Nothing worked as a long-term solution.
I decided to ask permission from our land lady to re-grout the gap. I went to the shops and bought all the necessary supplies: a tool to remove grout, bucket, float, new grout, and an additive. For whatever reason, I didn't perform the repair right away. Months passed as I was busy with other projects or activities. With my knee rehab I wasn't keen to be kneeling in a small space. But in all honesty, any reason I can provide is a lame excuse. I half-heartedly kept up the losing battle with the shower bugs, but finally I was fed up. "This weekend," I told Laura with fresh commitment, "I am going to fix our shower."
I had put off the task because replacing grout is a serious pain. It is a tedious job on your hands and knees, removing the old grout, mixing the new grout to the correct consistency, spreading it evenly into the gaps, and wiping up the excess. Oh the wiping! Time after time I emptied the bucket and replaced it with clean water. Again and again I passed the sponge over the tile, removing the cloudy haze from the glazed surface. Finally it was complete, and I walked away satisfied the battle with the bugs was over.
When a job long put off is complete, a funny thing happens. I look at the finished product and ask myself, why did I wait so long to finish this job? I had all the materials, ability, and time: why didn't I make this a priority months ago and begin to enjoy the beneficial results sooner? The same can be true about sin in the life of a Christian. Through faith in Christ, we have been freed from the power of sin. Why do we put off being reconciled to God or others when it is so wonderful to finally be free of addictions, hatred, unforgiveness, and bitterness? How is it we have the promises of God and the divine empowerment at our disposal with all the tools granted by God's grace, but we choose instead to keep fighting a spiritual battle through the efforts of the flesh?
I am very pleased to have a renewed shower, clean and free from the corrupting influence of those pesky insects. How much more satisfying and pleasing it is when our lives are once again free from sin and aligned with God's will in obedience and fellowship? Jesus has become sin for us so we might be the righteousness of God in Him. Take to heart the exhortation of Paul today: "Be reconciled to God." Once we have confessed our sin, repented, and received Christ's forgiveness and liberty we will undoubtedly say, "Why didn't I do that sooner?"
21 March 2015
The Atheist God Used (to make a Christian live like one)
When I entered Grossmont College as a freshman, I had relatively low expectations. It amazingly turned out to be an eye-opening season of my life. I could not have guessed the English professor teaching Advanced Composition would be instrumental in changing me for the better. A consummate scholar and intellectual, now doctor, author, and acclaimed professor, the man was eccentric, witty, well-read, and captivating. I felt I recognised and appreciated his brilliant mind more than others: what was this genius doing teaching at a Junior College?
Our class met on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 7am. Upon arriving for our first day, we were warmly greeted with an interesting question: "Are there any monotheists in this class?" I was one of three, and we were directed to sit on the right side of the classroom. The class was further separated into those with atheistic and agnostic leanings. The class was heavy on discussion of current events and reading from A World of Ideas by Lee A. Jacobs. By far it was my favourite class because of the professor I thoroughly admired, with whom I sensed a strange connection. Perhaps I was able to conceal my admiration, but likely not. The brilliance of the man in my eyes was undimmed by his worldview, which was admittedly atheistic. Instead of rejecting me for holding to the view that God exists, I was impressed by his acceptance. There was a mutual respect which transcended our differences. I did not always share my professor's views (especially concerning secret messages from Carol LaBeau), but I respected him like no other.
I came into the class believing there was a God. I grew up reading the Bible, praying, believing God heard my prayers and answered. I had seen God's answers to prayer. I knew I had been forgiven and trusted Jesus as Saviour. It was far more than a mental exercise. But during my teen years, I had grown spiritually proud and dull. My heart hardened, though I maintained a clean exterior. I did not use the crass language of others, drink alcohol, view pornography, or sleep around. It was of me Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 3:5: one who had a form of godliness but denied the power thereof. As I was exposed to worldly thoughts and philosophies in English class, I was challenged to the core. It was like I stood in the valley of decision: would I hold fast to my faith and belief in the scripture, or would I exchange it for a secular, atheistic worldview? The temptation was very real. As the weeks passed I realised I could not forsake Jesus who had died for my sins and rose from the dead. The resurrection of Jesus from the dead was beyond doubt. The truth was, however, at the time I was not living for God at all.
My first English class in university marked a turning point in my life, to move from knowing about God to living for Him. God used my atheist professor and the confronting nature of the class to force me to either reject the Bible wholesale as a work of fiction, or actually mix works with my faith. If I believed God was real, if I believed in the veracity of scripture, then I needed to take steps to intentionally live life for the glory of God. That class drove me to the scriptures to seek the answers. As I read the Word of God, I found my feet secure on solid footing. My confidence shifted from my knowledge to trusting God Himself. No longer did I feel unsettled by questions or doubts. I did not know everything, but what I knew was trustworthy, secure, and unshakable. Once settled with faith in Christ, I no longer felt overwhelmed by the intelligence of my professor or peers. My conscience was at rest, founded on Jesus Christ and the unchanging truth of the Bible. I was content with the fact I would likely never be an intellectual revered by colleagues in academia if I held fast to biblical truth. The class taught me a life marked by Christ's love, grace, and service far exceeds a Christian worldview alone. It wasn't long before I began volunteering to serve at church, and the rest is history.
I have a great debt of gratitude to the professor God used to change my life for the better. Shocked out of my complacency, a fire was started in my soul which has continued to burn and spread to this day. Isn't it ironic God would pull me out of a construction trade over a decade later having ordained me as a minister and pastor? I would be putting my university education into practice in the most unexpected way as I prepared studies, lessons, and sermons. I am grateful beyond words how God used that brilliant man to compel me towards Christ. I love atheists, agnostics, and my fellow believers because God does, and God can use them all for His glory too. You don't need to believe in God to be used mightily by Him, but how much more glorious it is to know God and be used by Him as well! To be known by God is more profoundly satisfying than any accolades received on earth. Our lives on earth will soon be over and we will be forgotten, but the Word of the LORD endures forever!
Our class met on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 7am. Upon arriving for our first day, we were warmly greeted with an interesting question: "Are there any monotheists in this class?" I was one of three, and we were directed to sit on the right side of the classroom. The class was further separated into those with atheistic and agnostic leanings. The class was heavy on discussion of current events and reading from A World of Ideas by Lee A. Jacobs. By far it was my favourite class because of the professor I thoroughly admired, with whom I sensed a strange connection. Perhaps I was able to conceal my admiration, but likely not. The brilliance of the man in my eyes was undimmed by his worldview, which was admittedly atheistic. Instead of rejecting me for holding to the view that God exists, I was impressed by his acceptance. There was a mutual respect which transcended our differences. I did not always share my professor's views (especially concerning secret messages from Carol LaBeau), but I respected him like no other.
I came into the class believing there was a God. I grew up reading the Bible, praying, believing God heard my prayers and answered. I had seen God's answers to prayer. I knew I had been forgiven and trusted Jesus as Saviour. It was far more than a mental exercise. But during my teen years, I had grown spiritually proud and dull. My heart hardened, though I maintained a clean exterior. I did not use the crass language of others, drink alcohol, view pornography, or sleep around. It was of me Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 3:5: one who had a form of godliness but denied the power thereof. As I was exposed to worldly thoughts and philosophies in English class, I was challenged to the core. It was like I stood in the valley of decision: would I hold fast to my faith and belief in the scripture, or would I exchange it for a secular, atheistic worldview? The temptation was very real. As the weeks passed I realised I could not forsake Jesus who had died for my sins and rose from the dead. The resurrection of Jesus from the dead was beyond doubt. The truth was, however, at the time I was not living for God at all.
My first English class in university marked a turning point in my life, to move from knowing about God to living for Him. God used my atheist professor and the confronting nature of the class to force me to either reject the Bible wholesale as a work of fiction, or actually mix works with my faith. If I believed God was real, if I believed in the veracity of scripture, then I needed to take steps to intentionally live life for the glory of God. That class drove me to the scriptures to seek the answers. As I read the Word of God, I found my feet secure on solid footing. My confidence shifted from my knowledge to trusting God Himself. No longer did I feel unsettled by questions or doubts. I did not know everything, but what I knew was trustworthy, secure, and unshakable. Once settled with faith in Christ, I no longer felt overwhelmed by the intelligence of my professor or peers. My conscience was at rest, founded on Jesus Christ and the unchanging truth of the Bible. I was content with the fact I would likely never be an intellectual revered by colleagues in academia if I held fast to biblical truth. The class taught me a life marked by Christ's love, grace, and service far exceeds a Christian worldview alone. It wasn't long before I began volunteering to serve at church, and the rest is history.
I have a great debt of gratitude to the professor God used to change my life for the better. Shocked out of my complacency, a fire was started in my soul which has continued to burn and spread to this day. Isn't it ironic God would pull me out of a construction trade over a decade later having ordained me as a minister and pastor? I would be putting my university education into practice in the most unexpected way as I prepared studies, lessons, and sermons. I am grateful beyond words how God used that brilliant man to compel me towards Christ. I love atheists, agnostics, and my fellow believers because God does, and God can use them all for His glory too. You don't need to believe in God to be used mightily by Him, but how much more glorious it is to know God and be used by Him as well! To be known by God is more profoundly satisfying than any accolades received on earth. Our lives on earth will soon be over and we will be forgotten, but the Word of the LORD endures forever!
20 March 2015
Groceries From Jesus
I began trusting in Jesus Christ as a child. When I look back on my childhood, I can see how God worked to provide, protect, and bless our family. My faith was not primarily built in a church classroom, but at home by parents who were faithful in trusting God and leading us kids to do the same.
By worldly standards we were not rich by any means, but our home was rich in love and faith in Christ. I never felt poor or deprived in any way, though money was tight. God always provided for our needs. When family, friends, or even total strangers needed a place to stay, my parents opened our home to visitors who stayed for years. During one of these seasons, we had a family of four staying with us. I remember having two bunkbeds side by side with a roll out mattress in between. Construction work had taken a big downturn in the 80's, and my dad worked hard to support his family and guests. We had to put the dresser in the closet because the room was full of beds!
Years later I was told the whole story of what became a defining moment of God's faithfulness in my life. My mum opened the cupboards one afternoon and came to the startling discovery there was no food on hand for dinner. She talked with the other mum and prayed for God to provide for us. As hungry people do, they started talking about the things they would love to eat. One suggested a spot of tea would be wonderful. The day continued on, and nothing was said about dinner.
I was in the kitchen about an hour later when I heard a knock at the door. I can't recall who opened the door and greeted the two smiling African American women at the door, but I remember vividly I had never seen them before. They held in their arms brown paper grocery bags. One of the women said through a broad smile, "We've got groceries from Jesus!" And in they came. I watched as the joyful strangers brought in bag after bag of groceries, placed them on the bench (counter), and left. We never knew their names, where they came from, or how they could have possibly known our dire need - a need I didn't even know we had!
It was like Christmas when we started taking the food out of the bags. I remember there was syrup bought from a store, something we never had at that time. My mum was deeply touched to find in the bounty there was even some tea, a special personal touch from the God who loved us so much. I have always been thankful to those beautiful women I never had an opportunity to thank or express how important their generous gifts were to us. I have thanked and been profusely grateful to God who loves us, hears prayers, and answers miraculously right on time. The same Jesus who healed the sick, opened the eyes of the blind, cleansed lepers, and fed 5,000 men plus women and children with five loaves and two fish, sent me groceries when I was hungry. He has refreshed my soul when I have been weary, swallowed up my fears with His love, and proved Himself faithful without fail.
Jesus willingly went to the cross, died, and rose from the dead to make a way for sinners to be saved. He is alive today. He has done much more for you than giving you a meal but has provided Himself as Living Bread from heaven. All who trust Him will be forgiven and have everlasting life. Do you know Him? I find it fitting to close with John's remarks in John 20:30-31: "And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name."
By worldly standards we were not rich by any means, but our home was rich in love and faith in Christ. I never felt poor or deprived in any way, though money was tight. God always provided for our needs. When family, friends, or even total strangers needed a place to stay, my parents opened our home to visitors who stayed for years. During one of these seasons, we had a family of four staying with us. I remember having two bunkbeds side by side with a roll out mattress in between. Construction work had taken a big downturn in the 80's, and my dad worked hard to support his family and guests. We had to put the dresser in the closet because the room was full of beds!
Years later I was told the whole story of what became a defining moment of God's faithfulness in my life. My mum opened the cupboards one afternoon and came to the startling discovery there was no food on hand for dinner. She talked with the other mum and prayed for God to provide for us. As hungry people do, they started talking about the things they would love to eat. One suggested a spot of tea would be wonderful. The day continued on, and nothing was said about dinner.
I was in the kitchen about an hour later when I heard a knock at the door. I can't recall who opened the door and greeted the two smiling African American women at the door, but I remember vividly I had never seen them before. They held in their arms brown paper grocery bags. One of the women said through a broad smile, "We've got groceries from Jesus!" And in they came. I watched as the joyful strangers brought in bag after bag of groceries, placed them on the bench (counter), and left. We never knew their names, where they came from, or how they could have possibly known our dire need - a need I didn't even know we had!
It was like Christmas when we started taking the food out of the bags. I remember there was syrup bought from a store, something we never had at that time. My mum was deeply touched to find in the bounty there was even some tea, a special personal touch from the God who loved us so much. I have always been thankful to those beautiful women I never had an opportunity to thank or express how important their generous gifts were to us. I have thanked and been profusely grateful to God who loves us, hears prayers, and answers miraculously right on time. The same Jesus who healed the sick, opened the eyes of the blind, cleansed lepers, and fed 5,000 men plus women and children with five loaves and two fish, sent me groceries when I was hungry. He has refreshed my soul when I have been weary, swallowed up my fears with His love, and proved Himself faithful without fail.
Jesus willingly went to the cross, died, and rose from the dead to make a way for sinners to be saved. He is alive today. He has done much more for you than giving you a meal but has provided Himself as Living Bread from heaven. All who trust Him will be forgiven and have everlasting life. Do you know Him? I find it fitting to close with John's remarks in John 20:30-31: "And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name."
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