KISS more of the time

Posted on March 13, 2015 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: The Kingdom provides simple solutions to complex problems.

Numbers 21:4-9 Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 Ephesians 2:1-10 John 3:14-21

K.I.S.S. is an acronym for “Keep it simple, stupid” as a design principle noted by the U.S. Navy in 1960. The KISS principle states that most systems work best if they are kept simple rather than made complicated; therefore simplicity should be a key goal in design and unnecessary complexity should be avoided. The simple answers from the Scriptures this week are: Be Loved, accept Grace, live by Faith. Each is to be received, each is to be expressed. It is in this way that as we seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness that all things will be added unto us. (Matt 6:33)

Here are other simple answers for:

  • Parenting: Lead, Model, Listen
  • Marriage: Be(come) best friends
  • Leadership: Learn to lead yourself, before you tell others where to go.
  • Success: small steps lead to big victories
  • Life: learn 2LAF more of the time…

There are simple solutions to complex problems, but many people are so caught up in the complexities of life, that simply telling them to breathe becomes a challenge. Please understand I am not attempting to minimize the problems, but we must realize that complex problems are most often not solved by complex solutions. Einstein’s quote “We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them” helps us to see that if we find ourselves in a complex problem… we need a simple solution.

It is no wonder that the world has seen the most simple solution, at every major sporting event; behind the backstop and at the top of the grandstand, and at all major news worthy gatherings – a large poster board declaring: JOHN 3:16. This most simple truth is the answer to a most complex problem. How do you solve the sin of the world? The answer of John 3:16 was giving under the cover of night, to a man with very a complex problem – How can I be born again…..? And this problem was only the surface to many layers of crises and his world crumbling down. The world has heard the answer – WHO SO EVER BELIEVES….  And from there we have added all the complexities of theology, psychology and anthropology and much more. Within the verses today – you can see the complexities of judgment and grace, which are always held together by love.

What problems are you facing today?  Dr. John Gottman – one of my favorite “psychologists to read and follow” describes problems in relationships as either being solvable or perpetual.  (Read an interview with Dr. Gottman regarding problems link) Without getting too complex – you can solve your solvable problems; to which he gives the simple steps, but you need to find ways to live or work with your perpetual because by definition you can’t solve them. (Not because they are difficult, rather because their roots lie in “unsolvable” territory) Grid-lock in Los Angeles is perpetual… but you don’t have to get on the freeway…. Sometimes we simply need help finding a new way of thinking. How do you think and talk about Love, Grace & Faith? Is it complex or simple?

For the most part, people don’t want simple solutions to complex problems – they want complex solutions, because that justifies the problems they find themselves in.

An examples of our desire for complexity when dealing with our bodies:

You can detox and clean your skin by taking an extra minute in the shower to pulse hot water, then switch to cold, then back to hot, back and forth for about a minute. For our skin is a living organism and when you pulse the water from very hot to very cold it activates the cells to regenerate causes toxins to be cleansed. But most would rather spend money on product, or take extensive time through a series of cleanses – The most classic cleanse for our body is to drink more water – but that is way too simple to follow. Dealing with psychological lens of detox – when you are battling situational depression – you can take drugs or let your body produce drugs internally – (endorphins etc.) by going for a walk as a simple solution – but most will chose an “easy” complex solution to take a drug which they have no idea what’s in it – as long as it works.

Here’s a simple pass at:

Love – God loves me. I am called to love one another.

Grace – I am made perfect in the eyes of the God, because of the gift of Jesus.

Faith – Believe that God’s love and grace is all I need.

I’m not going to make it any more complex…

We all have perpetual problems; at our core we all share in the same nature of an in ability to become perfect in this world. Rather than focusing on the problem, lets focus on the simple solution. As in the Numbers passage – you can dwell on the snake bite or look to the brazen snake on a pole and be healed… It’s that simple – Jesus is Lord, and we are to love the Lord. In doing so all else will come into perspective. The challenge of accepting the simple solution – is that forces you to accept that the complex problem need not be the focus off your life.  As Jesus is the Lord over your life and problems; that now makes the problem no longer yours to solve or to fix. He is the King of your reputation, it is not yours to build or secure.

Cast all your cares upon Him!

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Life is messy – control it and miss the point.

Posted on March 3, 2015 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: God brings order with chaos and chaos to order.

Exodus 20:1-17 Psalm 19 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 John 2:13-22

Everything happens with purpose, but not always is the purpose understood. When purpose is discovered, power is released. This is true in every aspect of God’s Creation; from the motion of the sun and the orbit of the planets, to the Law of God and the 10 commandments given to Israel. God has set and determined a way for all things to be. (This is not to say that God is determining the outcome of all things… rather that there is a God established way…) The old saying – “work smarter not harder” applies well here, when you discover your purpose and live into it you will find yourself working smarter rather than work harder. Hopefully, you will still work hard, but because you have no need to prove what you are doing is good/right, your efforts are all directed at your purpose. When things are out of order, it is the way of God to restore such order. However to bring chaos to order – simply better order is rarely the method of choice. When chaos is confronted, order looks like the foolishness of the cross. This paradox of the Kingdom is what establishes the radical yet principled way of the King’s rule and reign. We must beware of the subtle thought that something that looks orderly that it is right –the Pharisee’s life was full of order – but that is why Jesus’ way, truth and life was chaos to them. Life is intended to be messy… because in the mess of life we discover the peace of the Lord.

There is nothing in creation without purpose – this includes you and me. There is nothing in our lives without purpose – this includes suffering and celebration. But purpose is not the same as control.  The enemy uses our desire for control to blind us from discovering our true purpose found in surrendering and submitting to the King of Kings. We must find the purpose in all things and in all things we must find ourselves renewing and discovering greater purpose. In the Gospel of John we see the cleansing & turning of the temple at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry – in the other three gospels we find in placed at the conclusion. The Temple looked orderly as the rows of market sellers and dealers filled the courts, but through upheaval and “chaos” Jesus brought true order to the rebellions money changers. There is purpose to this…   As Paul proclaims the foolishness of the cross, he is pronouncing the profound purpose that God set forth, to turn the signs of the Jews and wisdom of the Greeks on their heads. There is purpose in the cross beyond a means of death. Without knowing this purpose, it would be impossible for us today to sing a song like “The Wonderful Cross”.

There is purpose in your obedience, (see last week) in your faithfulness and in your following the ways of God.

Psalm 19 uses 6 different words to create the depth of the purpose given to the ways of the LORD- law, statutes, precepts, commands, fear, and decrees are all different words to bring for the depth of fruit and fulfillment in our obedience to the ways God has established for his creation. Yet:

  • Where does your faithfulness lack fruitfulness?
  • Where is your following not leading to fulfillment?

It is in these moments that we have the clearest picture to see our purpose or more clearly the lack of purpose. When your faithfulness and following is not yielding fruit and fulfillment – you may have missed or simply miss-used your purpose.  God longs to bless and provided for you and this is done as you live into your God given design and purpose.

We all have general purpose – The Great Commandment – Love God and others…. The Great Commission – Go therefore and make disciples… further our purpose is to be ministers of reconciliation, and as image bearers of the King…. Yet, we all have specific purpose as well – Do you know your… if not check out these posts: Joy in your uniqueness, Resiliency to press on, Peace in your Purpose, your work as purpose.

The point of the post is to see that God is limited in the ways in which purpose is revealed. It is revealed in the order and orbit of the sun. It is revealed in the upside-down proclamation of the cross and that in our weakness, true strength is discovered. In Psalm 19:7-9, there are 6 different words used to describe the totality of God’s ways given to his people that they might walk in a righteous path receiving the great reward. Each of these words hold a key to us fully discovering our purpose. They are the Kings’ tools for the transformation of our inner being.

Do you long to live into the purpose God has set before you? Follow the fruit of the kingdom and the fulfillment of your heart.  Don’t look to the world for this validation. Look to the Word, and faithfully live in obedience following fruit and fulfillment.

What is the fruit that you desire from your faithfulness?

What is the fulfillment you desire from your following?

Click here to see how the 10 Commandments, The Be-Attitudes, The Lord’s Prayer and Romans 12 all align to proclaim the same truth about Servant Leadership and living a life of love and gratitude. (Purpose)

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Confronting or Comforting

Posted on February 26, 2015 by chaplaincasey

The post below- captures the heart of this week’s text’s perfectly.

This weeks Scriptures focus on Abraham rather than Jacob (below). It is  God does the work of the Covenant with Abraham…. yet Abraham believes in faith…. he was fully persuaded that God had the power to do what He had promised… even when Sarah did not believe fully, God brought her to a point of faith. For those whom are willing to walk forward in faith,  they have one Declaration – “Jesus is LORD!”

Jesus is Lord over all and overall, those who believe in faith receive the blessing and bounty of the Kingdom.  The blessing and bounty of the Kingdom come as an act of deliverance. It is out of this deliverance which it is made possible for us to “Love the LORD!”  We must confess with our mouth and believe in our heart… (Romans 10:4-13) Loving the Lord is a holistic expression of life. In this, we deny ourselves, in order to find ourselves. We take up our cross, in our to share in the values of the Cross. WE follow Jesus – because he is our LORD.

 

 

chaplaincasey's avatarconfrontingchaos

Kingdom Principle: Jesus is Lord (King) over everything; heaven to earth, past to future, sinner to saint.

My actions do not determine my identity, rather Jesus actions declare my identity.

Genesis 28:10-19aPsalm 139:1-12, 23-24Romans 8:12-25Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43

How aware of God are you? Do you see God in everything? (I love the Everything by Tim Hughes) When are you most focused on God? Unfortunately that answer for the vast majority of people is that they are most aware and focused on God when they are in a crisis or have great need. This is not coincidence, for in these moments we are confronted with the reality that we are not in control, and that we are in need of a Savior, to be Lord over our lives. This shift of our awareness of God taking place in moments of peace verses chaos, takes place…

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Ready to give up? Take something on!

Posted on February 18, 2015 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: Deliverance & Declaration are the marks of the Kingdom.

Conflict and Controversy are not obstacles to avoid rather they are opportunities for advancement of personal growth and kingdom expansion.

Genesis 9:8-17 Psalm 25:1-10 1 Peter 3:18-22 Mark 1:9-15

We have all been delivered… that is brought into this world on a certain date. We all need deliverance… that is to be loosed from the grips of this world and the ways of the enemy. In order for us to truly be delivered, we must first aware of our state as being unpleasant or dangerous. (As much as a baby may consider the womb, better than the world… it would mean death to the mother and child for them not to be delivered.) The irony of deliverance to the Kingdom of God is that the very definitions of unpleasant and dangerous become completely redefined – this has been called the paradox of the Kingdom. Once delivered, the call is to declare, “I am no longer in bondage”. (1Cor 15:54-58, Luke 15:31-32, Romans 6:17-18, Gal 5:1)

Jesus says, “the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.” Repent speaks of the power of deliverance, the declaration is found in the observation of the movement of the Kingdom coming near and in the expression of the Good News. Paul in Romans says that faith comes by hearing the message. (Romans 10:17) The marks of those who enter the Kingdom is the constant profession of their deliverance from this world, and profound declaration of the Good News. This act leads to the deliverance of others in the power and name of Jesus Christ, resulting in yet another declaration. You can see how this plays out in the Gospel of Matthew:

We are blessed to receive the Kingdom in an act of deliverance… (Matt 5:3, 10) We are to invite the Kingdom to come as an act of declaration… (Matt 6:9-13) We are to Seek first the Kingdom for continual deliverance … (Matt 6:33) We are to be prepared that the deliverance of the Kingdom comes with violent power… (Matt 11:12) We are to teach and declare the Kingdom come (Matt 13:52) We are to do the work of the Kingdom both delivering and declaring… (Matt 16:19) In this we move from Deliverance to Declaration. For this is what we are commissioned to do (Matt 28:18-20)

For some people “deliverance” is a buzz word for spiritual opposition and demonic oppression, while I believe that this one form of needed deliverance, it alone is not the only aspect which the Kingdom of God renders necessary. The kingdom touches every aspect of one’s life, think about your most recent conflict or controversy in your life which you have overcome. For most this has taken place in the context of relationships often in family or at work… (Where we spend most of our time.) What did you learn from those experiences? These nuggets of truth and life lessons are some of the most valuable which money can’t buy.  If you can’t think of anything you have learned from conflict or controversy recently, it is very possible that you have not fully stepped into the full leadership potential that God has prepared for you. (Eph 4:11-13) I am not suggesting that you look for things to challenge you and to bring conflict into your life, rather I am presenting the reality that as you and I seek the kingdom and to live in submission to the King as an act of leadership, you are likely to face situations that challenge you and bring conflict to the surface. (Acts 14:22) Another possibility is that you may have overlooked a pattern, which God is revealing and leading you to discover from which a greater authority will be given to you as you overcome it. Going through conflicts and controversies are not seen in general as desirable rather most people do all they can to avoid such experiences – but this is not so in the Kingdom.

How we respond to challenge is more important than if we “fail or succeed”. In fact, to fail in a challenge is likely to produce more growth and learning, than to simply overcoming and succeeding without struggle.

Martin Luther King Jr. adds this insight, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. The Lent Season (which begins this week) is the period of time leading up to the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.  In this season it is traditional to “give something up” but a better way to look at this to willingly take on an opportunity which may produce challenge or conflict in your life. As we seek first the Kingdom of God, we are embracing that all power and authority has been given to you and in this you are initiating a violent takeover of territory which the enemy has un-rightfully claimed. (John 10:10) Our claim is to know that nothing can come upon us that will put us to shame, nor separate us from the Love of God. (Romans 8:37-39, 10:11-12) It is in this declaration throughout the season of lent, that we find our way to stand in times of challenge and controversy that yield the greatest kingdom expansion.

The call for Lent is not to GIVE UP something – especially hardships, for if you give this or anything up in this manner the Kingdom will most likely not be affected. However if your gain the perspective that no trial, trouble, conflict or challenge is meaningless and that in Christ you can do all things; then consider the opportunity to TAKE ON something this Lent season in order to affirm your willingness to bear the cross of Christ in your life. Take on a joyful celebration in the Kingdom of God as you are stretched to its limits.

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I’m not lost, I’m just looking for more…

Posted on February 9, 2015 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: God’s Glory is shown to and through his chosen servants.

2 Kings 2:1-12 Psalm 50:1-6 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 Mark 9:2-9

When U2 cried out – “I still haven’t found what I’m looking for” – at least he knows what he is looking for…. (I think he found it) Do you know what you are looking for? Do you know what you want?  Knowing what you want is the first step in getting “it” – unfortunately many have no clue what they want in general or specific. The scriptures today lead us to ask the question – Have you seen God’s Glory? And I ask you, do you want to see God’s glory? Scripture tells us elsewhere that “you have not because you asked not” (Luke 11:11-13, Matt 7:7-11, James 4:2-3) Let us be bold and come before the throne of Grace (Heb. 4:16) and ask for all that Jesus is longing to bring into our lives.

This is the final week of Epiphany– next week we move into the season of Lent. The transition from Epiphany to Lent is marked by the climax of all that the Spirit of God has revealed through the Life of Jesus to this world. When we are full, we are prepared to be poured out, in Lent we let go of the things of this world, by taking on and embracing the disciplines of Jesus. Do you have all that you want and need from the Spirit of God? If not – ask for  more. The way of Jesus is to be easy and light – when you are yoked equally with him. (Matt 11:28-30) That yoke is measured by the power of the Spirit.

Elisha is not being greedy when he asks Elijah for a double portion of his spirit – He is merely asking for all that is possible. He is asking for a full inheritance. Culturally speaking – The first born was to receive 2/3 of the inheritance while the others are to receive 1/3. This is the double portion. One cannot give more than one has – So Elijah cannot give a double dose of his spirit to Elisha – rather – Elisha is asking to take his rightful place as the inherited spiritual son of Elijah.  We are called the son’s of God and called to have our full inheritance (Romans 8:17, 1 Cor. 6:9, 15:50-52; Gal. 5:19-21, Eph 5:1,5) This inheritance is the very Kingdom of God – are you asking/seeking for the Kingdom? (Matt 6:9-13)

The “god of this world” your enemy would like to veil the light of the gospel which is the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, but he can’t when you are asking for it to be revealed. (2 Cor. 4:4) So may we ask for more of the Almighty to be revealed in our lives as we seek his Kingdom daily. (Matt 6:33) God’s image is in the gospel and our very lives are made in the image of God.  Therefore our lives are to shine the light of the gospel of the Kingdom. God’s glory has been made to shine through us and the gospel is the good news that those who are perishing need to see.

Our God is not silent nor passive about the way in which His blessing is dispensed. Our King is a wealthy King  – and the King longs to share all that He has with his noble subjects who are his servants.  Peter, James and John are invited into the presence of Jesus, Elijah and Moses  – the glory is revealed to them like never before in their life. This overshadowing of the Holy Spirit is the work that transforms us (body, soul & spirit). We see later in Acts 5 – Peter’s shadow carries with it the same power that came up on them on this day. Jesus calls us unto himself as God has summoned all the earth and heavens to reveal his glory. May we be wanting and willing to ask for the overshadowing and double blessing of God most High!

Where have you seen God’s Glory?

Where is the Glory of God shining through you?

If you don’t have quick answers to either of those questions – Ask to see his Glory – it will most likely come through the lives of God’s chosen servants who are not looking to draw attention to themselves, but can’t help but to shine the Light of the Son in this dark world.

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Tired of trying… a simple re-focus is in order.

Posted on February 6, 2015 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: What you focus your attention on – will determine your next steps

Isaiah 40:21-31 Psalm 147:1-11, 20c 1 Corinthians 9:16-23 Mark 1:29-39

Trying to keep “up” with Jesus is impossible! Trusting Jesus to keep you “up” is freedom.

Focusing on trying is all about our efforts. Focusing on Trusting is all about His presence.

The need for healing is always upon us, as we dwell in this world. Freedom from this world comes from the awaking of our spirit in the power of the Holy Spirit which makes possible the healing of our body & soul. You can either focus on what is wrong or you can focus on the power to overcome. Further, you can see a “demon in every bush”, or know that “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4) The enemy will continually seek to steal, kill and destroy, but let us focus on what is means to live life to the full. (John 10:10) Full of Faith, Full of Hope, Full of Love. The enemy uses fear to keep us frozen in our path instead of walking with Jesus, our enemy is best understood to include:

  1. Satan and his dominion darkness 2. This World 3. The Flesh

This is not to focus our thoughts on the enemy, but to call out those who may have found themselves trap with this focus. When the Holy Spirit breaths life in us – we are born again (John 3:3)and transferred from the dominion of darkness into the kingdom of light. (Col. 1:13-14) Being redeemed in the Kingdom of Light does not mean that Satan takes his focus off of us, rather it actually increases the target on our backs to which the enemy always seeks. We in turn can either be filled with fear and focus on his every move, or we can be filled with Power and Authority to overcome Him – placing our focus on Jesus. This focus will yield us victorious as servantleaders following a plan of hope.

What follows are two options of where to place our focus: Survival in this world (just trying to make it each day) or Soaring above this world. (trusting that He who overcome the world is with me).

The movement by the enemy against us it is either an act of intrusion or requires our invitation. Satan and his demons – are pleased to move by either means of intrusion or invitation– because of this, we must cry for Justice or confess our need for Forgiveness respectively. The World and its desires are poised to war against our soul. The Flesh, which is not our body, but our carnal nature – while being put to death – still wages a war against our bodies. (Romans 6, 8:9) This opposition is why “trying to keep up with Jesus is impossible”. Trying rather than Trusting is the problem to keeping up with Jesus (or the Jones’ for that matter). Here is the Problem: Trying opens the door to the possibility that you might not make it…..

I will try -means – I will give it my best shot; but in the end if it does not happen, I feel good that I can say “at least I tried”. To this I say – NO MORE! People who try to follow Jesus will discover it is impossible to “keep up with Jesus” and therefore they eventually give up. (The answer to this dilemma is found in being WITH Jesus) Instead of trying – we must shift our paradigm to trusting. (This is not word choice, it is much deeper within us regarding our philosophy.) In the much the same way, I believe that there is no such thing as failure – rather to fail is our First Attempt In Learning). This is to have a hope-filled faith in Jesus leading us to follow him in our weakness so that He will be strong. (2 Cor. 12:9-10) Jesus is neither interested nor dependent on our strength and ability, as the means to his ends. Jesus is our means and our end. As we lay down our attempts of trying – we will no longer be tired. We will be renewed in our spirit!

Deeper reflection:

Have you ever been so exhausted, that you can’t imagine taking another step forward, when someone comes along to cheer you on, and you are able to finish – this is renewal of the soul.

Have you ever been so exhausted, that you can’t imagine taking another step forward, when you finally hit your pillow and sleep peacefully for 9 hours – this is renewal of the body.

Have you ever been so exhausted, that you can’t imagine doing anything, much less entertaining people in your home, yet God calls you to have people over and life transformation takes place; after this experience – you’re not depleted rather you are aware of the Lord’s pleasure over you….this is renewal of the spirit. (true spiritual renewal does not leave you empty when it is over…)

The impossible becomes possible only when our spirit is renewed in the Holy Spirit.

Being renewed in the spirit is different than resting/renewed of the body or soul….                The spirit of a person is rested/renewed when they are moving in the flow of the Holy Spirit. What follows below is the difference between good and great – The renewal of our body and soul is good and necessary – but it will not lead us to the greatness of trust in the power of Jesus.

One way the soul is charged through the love languages – as outline by Dr. Gary Chapman – (Words of Affirmation, Physical Touch, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time). The soul is dependent on the body to be expressed; therefore the renewal of the body and the renewal of the soul are deeply intertwined. Introverts and Extroverts will find this renewal in very unique and diverse ways.   In the Scriptures we find references to the Lord giving us rest for our souls. (which is good – Ps. 62, Jer. 6:16, Matt. 11:29) This rest is absolutely essential and a renewing gift of the Lord to give us the capacity to function in this world. The act of knowing what to say “Yes” too verses “No” –is a battle of the mind (which is an aspect of our soul) demonstrates and renewed soul. Paul was compelled to preach to the ends of the earth, but when the Spirit said no – he stopped, when the Spirit said go – he went – even unto chains and death. (Acts 21:10-14) The vision of the man of Macedonia (Acts 16) demonstrates how simply having a renewed body and soul is not enough, to overcome the power of the renewed spirit removes the concept of failure and trying and replaces it with trusting.

The rest of our bodies, is first enacted through sleep, but also includes the right nutrition and rhythms of life. However the rest of our spirit is not based on our personality or person-hood, in fact it is not dependent on anything that originates with us. In fact our spirit does not need to rest in the above mentioned ways, nor is it renewed by anything in the world or by the actions of others. Simply put our spirit does it need to be “shut down” to recharge. Our spirit is always awake and alert. The “rest” of our spirit is an action of Heaven coming to Earth – our spirit is rested or restored when the Holy Spirit of God rests on us.  (Num. 11:25, Ps. 51, Isa. 11:2, and in the Book of Acts we the need to be filled continually.

We see this most clearly when a person is moved by the leading of the Spirit which compels and motivates them. Jesus was fully human, but he was not motivated by his need for food of this world (John 4:34) nor the rest of the night for his body (Luke 8:22-25), nor was He longing for the love languages as defined above. (John 11:1-43) The Love Languages are a great tool and often referenced by myself when dealing with relationships – but when our sole focus is on caring for our souls for the health of our relationships (especially marriages) we can quickly overlook the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives. God’s love language is prayer. This is why Jesus is constantly going off alone to pray. (Mark 1:35-36, Luke 6:12, 9:18, 22:39-41, Matt 14:23)

Jesus was able to walk away from the praise and recharging of the soul to be in solitude with the Spirit. For the Spirit rested on him –and that was His renewal. Peter’s mother-in-law didn’t need to sleep off her illness, she only need healing in the power of the Spirit.

So how can we rest our spirit rather than yielding to the needs of our body and soul? First, we recognize that the body and soul need to be rested and we acknowledge that need, but we do not seek to meet those needs at the expense or exclusion of the spirit. Further our focus needs to be in-sync and flow with the Spirit of God; in this place time stops, our body do not fade, our emotions are not subjected to approval of others.  It is the Lord who does the work of the Spirit, not ourselves, yet we are participants in this great work. To rest our spirit we must give up our need to get the credit for the work that is done and we must renew our hope in the impossible.

Questions to guide us on this quest to rest our spirit:

  1. How have I allowed “love languages” to bring rest to my soul and the soul of loved ones, rather than investing in the growth of the spirit of my closest relationships?
  2. Am I involved in anything that cannot be done or completed without the Spirit of God making it so?  If not, are you willing to allow God to lead you into where his Spirit can be made known to you? If so, in what ways are you seeing in the work of the Spirit as overcoming the limitations of your body or soul?
  3. Do you find pleasure in the same things that bring pleasure to the Lord?  – If you don’t know what brings the Lord pleasure – spend more time in the Psalms.
  4. What am are you saying “No” to – at the leading of the Holy Spirit that my body and soul selfishly desire to say “Yes” to?
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Suicide & Conversion exchange fear & faith

Posted on January 26, 2015 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: You are designed to be filled, in order to be poured out.

Being filled is an act of the Spirit (establishes Authority), being poured is to advance the Kingdom (demonstrates Power)

Deuteronomy 18:15-20 Psalm 111 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 Mark 1:21-28

Suicide & Conversion are both an act of faith. Both recognize that life is not worth living in the current state of being. Both have given up the hope that they can do it on their own. Both are willing to die to see what is on the other side…. Below is my story attempting to swallow the realities of my own conversion in becoming filled with the Spirit and being poured out as a prophet which becomes an act of suicide.

If you just want bullet points of learning – skip the narrative – read below.

While I was enjoying the beach on day – Jesus said,  – “Come and Follow me” and off to the water he went. Heading for the water, he did not look back. (I assumed that we were going to fish…) There was no hesitation in following, (in this I was proud) with excitement the usual shock of the cold water did not set in – rather quickly we began swimming into the waves. (This was not what I expected, but what did that matter, I was following.) At about 50 yards out, he looked back again at me and said, “Follow me”.  Before I could respond – He dove beneath the water. At about 10 feet below he began to point out many beautiful things – I wanted to stay there with him, but had to return to the surface for air. He did not follow me – so I quickly took a breath and returned. This repeated for an hour – I’d dive down for 1-3 minutes at a time, returning to the surface to breath then to dive again –  until I was so exhausted, I could barely make it back to shore. When arrived there, Jesus was waiting for me on the beach.

The next day – I returned to the beach, with great excitement I found Jesus waiting there for me and he said, “Follow me”, and we went to the same spot, this time I came prepared with goggles, fins, and snorkeling gear – I saw others out there doing the same – when we reached the spot again – this time I was prepared to hover on the surface, but this time he went deeper, and my emotions switched from enjoyment to fear, and Jesus clearly said at 18 feet – “Follow me”.  So did and holding my breath – until my lungs began to burn – I followed – until at the very last moment, I could hardly imagine any more pain without death – I rose to the surface and immediately returned to shore.  Exhausted, Feeling like a failure and disappointed I decided that Jesus was asking too much of me. Yet, then it came to me that if I learn to SCUBA – I could spend more time with Jesus.

After 6 weeks and lots of money invested I was ready to go back to swim with Jesus. I returned to the spot, where I had last swam with Jesus, but Jesus was not there.  I decided that since I worked so hard to get there that I might as well look around and practice all that I had learned since last I had been at this spot. To my great surprise as I began to dive –  there was an entire flock of people SCUBA diving – but no Jesus to be found. It was more beautiful than I imagined and there were times that I forgot that I had come here to see Jesus. I asked around for Jesus, but no one really wanted to talk about that, the focus was on amazing things that could be found.  I learned that many had returned to the surface to invite others to the dive, and teaching them to SCUBA but leaving out, that it was Jesus who led them to this place.

Then one day I discovered that Jesus was hanging out again in about 10 feet of water. Many snorkelers hovered over him,  SCUBA divers looked up at him. I decided to ask Jesus why he was there at 10 feet and not with others – neither at the surface or below with the divers– He simply said – “Follow me…” this time I was ready; and Jesus said “Good, now take off the SCUBA gear.”  I did not object, but I did not understand. Why is it that now, after taking the time to learn how to follow Jesus (with the necessary gear and certifications) thinking that I was ready, Jesus was not leading the way?  Jesus said, “Follow me & Drink” – it is beyond my understanding, but with the stoppage of time – we discussed my inability to do this – and he said Drink.  I opened my mouth and it began to be filled with water – and as I expected I began to choke and then what followed was no surprise, I  felt life leave my body. But instead of floating to the surface, I was given in the most incredible freedom I never imagined –my body transformed and my lugs could breathe under water and Jesus was now off swimming ahead – He showed me the wonders of the sea – and said – you do not “need” to return to the surface, but I am – so I followed Him.

What I quickly realized once at the surface was that I could no longer breathe above the water as I could before. It was revealed to me that as long as I was with Jesus, he filled my lungs with living water. If I was to wander away from Jesus, I now had to hold my breath above water… then this reality set in, life would never be the same – I had a choice to make. I could return to the sea, leaving not only my previous life, but all my relationships and responsibilities behind, (Jesus gave this as an option) or I would be “forced” to walk on earth only where Jesus leads.  There was one other options, but it was not really an option to me – I could return to my previous life on earth without Jesus, but this then would result in death once more…. the choice was easy and the burden was light.

 I was not in the world, but not of the world, in a way I never imagine. My life was completely dependent on my immediate and intimate connection with Jesus as all times. And yet, It was as if Jesus was leading me right back to where I was prior to the first day I dove to 10 feet of water.  This led me to pondered the living water filling my lungs; the Lord was mysteriously depositing unlimited “gallons” of grace and truth, wisdom and power in me, yet how might I share that reservoir with others?– How large of “spout” did I have to work with…? I imagined pressing 1000 gallons through a baby bottle or medicine dropper verses a fire hose nozzle. My journey of discipleship is no longer about how to get more of Jesus, rather I understand the the command to love others can not be my sole obsession.

There are many ways the church has tried to increase your “spout”, but as the story above captures, we are most resistant to actually allowing living water to fill our lungs. It is easy to focus on tools to increase our “spout”, or on the “tools” such as snorkeling or SCUBA to get close to Jesus, but do not result in our being filled with Jesus. 

This metaphor helps me to deeply ponder what it means to live in the Kingdom (Abiding with Jesus and having living waters flowing from my heart). The Kingdom was not under the sea… The Kingdom is the rule and reign (leading) of Jesus on heaven & earth.  Salvation comes to those who die with Christ,  but there is so much more to living with Jesus and that is only found in the Kingdom.

The Church has grown comfortable swimming close to the shore in no more than 10 feet of water.  The church has offered swimming classes and built huts by the shore, but in reality very few ever enter the water. To enter the water is to embrace weakness (I can’t do it on my own) and death. In order for me to follow Jesus – I must be willing to die – the absurdity of swallowing salt water as the way to find life. In order for me to live, I must not fear my death, rather I must re-enter my “world” with Love that is not my own.

Quick Learning Points:

Kingdom Principle: You are designed to be filled, in order to be poured out.

Being filled is an act of the Spirit (establishes Authority), being poured is to advance the Kingdom (demonstrates Power)

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Why I stopped fighting for my marriage…

Posted on January 19, 2015 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: Kingdom living requires an undivided life, yet will potentially separate everything else from you.

Jonah 3:1-5, 10 Psalm 62:5-12 1 Corinthians 7:29-35 Mark 1:14-20

My wife and I, celebrated 17 years of marriage, with three kids (10, 12 & almost 14), a dog, 2 cars, a house, and a little bit of money in the bank.  This past year, we set up a Living Trust. It is not because we have so much (in comparison to others in this world) and yet we do – especially when you factor in a couple of life insurance policies, and all the impending realities of this world. It was an daunting task – and yet it was a true gift to look at the value of all that you posses and to assign it a role in our death. We resisted the process of creating a Trust, holding to the excuse that our life and our possessions are the in the “Lord’s hands”, and yet convinced of that we need not deny death is inevitable and with that comes the real potential for others to fight (disagree) over the realities of this world we leave behind. This all leads to “Why I am no longer fighting for my marriage”…

The simply answer is that instead of fighting for, I am enjoying the fruits of the relationship…Fighting for my marriage, is a good intention, but in the wrong direction. The battle is not for my marriage, it is for our sanctification and holiness. Marriage is not a pursuit of happiness, it is a pursuit of holiness, and in this our brokenness is part of the process.   The actual release from the need to save or build your marriage is the only way to move into the true joy of being in a relationship. I am not saying that marriage is not worth fighting for; rather that when we truly enjoy God’s blessings, we no longer fight against flesh & blood. (Eph. 5:21-33, 6:10-12) A prayer based, intimate relationship filled with joy of the Kingdom is the best prevention for divorce. (Read  – the “7 Principles of Making Marriage Last” by Dr. John Gottman and Francis Chan’s book “You & Me forever” will echo what I am saying here as well.)

To have heart of the Kingdom of God – is to be unmoved by the kingdoms of this world.  Kingdoms of this world can be anything from an individual to an institution. Even when churches, marriages, and even our identities are formed and tied to this world and not that which is established for the Kingdom of God it will cause an divided heart.  In Paul’s words this work “the time is short” it has been fulfilled, this does not mean to abandoned institutions (such as marriage) rather it means to see them as what they are  – a tool and means by which God can and will assist you to be about what is greater; that is the Kingdom of God.

This concept of commitment and level of devotion seems complicated to many of us, yet we come to see it clearly, it is the calling and life of a solider trained for war. When a solider returns from war,  we call them a veteran. For some this is simply a way to acknowledge the service they have given, but for others  it doesn’t begin to capture the sacrifice they have given.  This sacrifice is not simply time away from their families, risk of life, training and the traumatic experiences – the sacrifice is their very identity with no option to return to life as they once knew it. They have completely given over their lives – whether they die or not, they have die to themselves. (Luke 9:23, John 12:24, Romans 6:11, Gal. 2:20, 5:24; Col. 3:5) Their training is a conversion of national allegiance – where their will is redefined to charge ahead in the face of death and to value the lives of people they do not know by name more than their own life. Their tongue is disciplined to answer in submission and respect to the commanding officer at all times. It is no wonder that when Jesus is approached by a soldier (Luke 7:1-10) who understood this level of conversion and faith –Jesus said none in Israel believed as he had.

Christians are called to this same devotion and commitment; we are in a battle. There is a war going on, and it is a matter of life and death. Unfortunately, many Christians go through the motions of their faith without the slightest awareness or appreciation for the battle that they have been enlisted to fight. This battle will tear your family apart, it will require you to give your life, it will demand your attention and discipline or else when the battle is faced – you will either cower in fear or face destruction and death unless you have trained for such a time as this.

The Kingdom of God is – a Kingdom with a King not of this world – and we are called to be the servants, soldiers and heirs of this great Kingdom.  While we are enlisted into this battle which is not of flesh and blood – or even of this world for that matter. The effects of the battle are not only experienced in this world, they are as tangible and impact anything we do or do not do in this world.  We can pretend that there is no war, we can separate ourselves from society, we can attempt to balance how much we let it affect us – but we live in denial if we are going to give our lives to the King and pretend that it will not affect every aspect of our lives. (think wholeness/holistic)

So – what do we do with our lives….. Our marriages, our families, our friendships, our possessions, our jobs, and the institution we have come to call the church?  All of these are rooted in the soil of this world. When we count any of these things as more precious or valuable than our service to the King we have committed the error of Jonah – Not wanting to acknowledge the larger lens and more powerful love of God than we can control and contain.  For Jonah this was a national issue, and yet still today there are those who make  God’s Kingdom a nationally aligned issue– (no room here for commentary on the current state of the Middle East…)

At the same time – We have experiences which are rooted in this world, that we bring to the table when enter to the Kingdom to fight for the King. Are we to simply leave behind all that we have in this world? NO – Are we to give all that we have in this world over to the King?  YES… in choosing this we are choosing to live a life that is undivided, this is God’s redeeming act of Mercy & Grace. Whatever you have to leave behind or to give to the King is in your life for the purposes of the King. The our journey is to discover how we can use all things for the Kingdom and not our own comfort or gain. Our Strengths are for the King as well as are our Weaknesses.  When we wrestle with this – it takes us to the core of repentance– “A turning away from what once was – to what will be so”. The repentance is connected by Jesus with believing in the good news. This Good News is at the heart of the Kingdom – salvation is found only with Jesus as our King – all things have been redeemed.

If the concepts of  the passage in 1 Corinthians are challenging to you today – you are living into the tension of the Kingdom of God being in this world, but not of this world. (John 3:27-36, 15:19, 17:16, Romans 12:2)

If it is not challenging to you; either you are not in touch with what it costs to be a servant of the Kingdom or your have chosen to divide your life into what is the King’s and what is not – and the impact that decision is yet to be realized. (2 Tim. 4:1-6, 1 John 2:15-17, Matthew 16:24-28, 19:23-30)

Questions to further ponder:

  1. Where does your time seem divided amongst many responsibility and passions? – as if you  are going in different directions all the time?    (the key is to find the flow, rather than being busy)
  2.  Cor. 1:29 is not a call for divorce. Yet Idolatry is loving anything more than God as Lord & King.  Connecting last week – Do you and your spouse share an undivided heart (for the two shall become one flesh) in following the Spirit?
  3. When have you felt powerful for the Kingdom of God? (Review today’s Psalm)
  4. What makes a person powerful in the kingdoms of this world?      Does power in the World prevent power in the Kingdom of God – if not how do you reconcile these two answers?
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Banana Split vs. Sundae

Posted on January 15, 2015 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: Wholeness of self  is the process of holiness.

The King sees your whole self, and your whole self  is greater than the sum of its parts (body, soul & spirit).

1 Samuel 3:1-10, (11-20) Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 John 1:43-51

While the banana is only a single ingredient of the Banana Split without the banana it becomes something very different – a Sundae. Further simply having all the ingredients for the banana split but to eat them separate is not to enjoy the dessert. The parts (ingredients) of the banana split (ice cream flavors, syrups, nuts, cherries, whip cream) are all unique and important pieces, but together you have so much more. God has called us to whole and holy people. In order to live into the holiness of God, we must not settle for sundae’s when what God has asked for banana splits.

In this dessert metaphor, the Holy Spirit has been given to all believers which is being made analogous to a banana, but all too often believers offer sundae’s leaving the “banana” in its peel. (There is a play on words regarding what believers have to offer on Sunday… but I’ve already pushed it far enough) It’s no wonder those believers to feel like something is simply missing when it comes to holiness and worship. What is missing is a holistic understanding and engagement of life. Meaning that every aspect and part of your life matters to God, and impacts your worship.

You have a body, soul and spirit each unique unto themselves, and when the Holy Spirit cuts and pierces our hearts (Acts 2:37) and the Word of God divides us (Heb. 4:12, 1 Thess. 5:23) the process of our submission and holiness unto the King is holistic (as opposed to dualistic). While we have unique parts, holiness is the aspect of all our parts being made whole. Holiness is alone a gift from God unto us, yet we are called to be Holy. (1 Peter 1:15-16) Over this lectionary year (B) we will look at the unique and individual aspects of the body, soul and spirit, but it must always remain paramount that we are more than the sum of our parts, and that we are made in the image of God, who’s thoughts are greater than the sum of them all.

“The whole is greater than the sum of its parts” – is first attributed to Aristotle in his Metaphysics in 330 BC, this was a rejection of Plato’s theory of objects being a mere shadow of an ideal. (the roots of gnostism) And while this statement has been interpreted with various meanings over millennium, a great resurgence began in the last 100 years with the interest of Gestalt psychology. (here the emphasis is on the power of interactions and impacts of the “parts” upon one another) The Psalmist (David) long before Aristotle presented this picture of the whole being greater than the sum of our parts as the aspect of how God views us as His Creation. Further, God thoughts toward us are greater than a dissection of philosophy (Aristotle) or psychology (Gestalt) as a form of elevated anthropology. (forgive the jargon) God has split the heaven and earth, (torn veil) and draws us to holiness, by the power of his Holy Spirit.

Last week we addressed that the Spirit motivates, moves and molds the heart of the Kingdom, and previously we have addressed how the heart is the center of the body, soul and spirit. When we separate the body, soul and spirit we have a tendency to emphasize only one aspect of our holiness; like eating banana split one ingredient at a time. I would go as far as to call this a split personality, which has lead to many in the church to be accused of hypocrisy.

  • An isolated focus for the holiness of the body demands right action.
  • An isolated focus for the holiness of the soul declares right attitude.
  • An isolated focus for the holiness of the spirit demonstrates right approach.

But unfortunately, having any of these rights (action, attitude, approach) at the expense of another is to miss the fact that God’s holiness for us is holistic. This holistic expression is a reality that the whole is greater than the sum of its part. God sees our whole self and longs for His holiness and righteousness to be our only measure of approach, attitude and action. The Spirit of God is the glue and ruler of the body, soul and spirit of humanity. Gnosticism (the dualistic separation of the body and soul/spirit has been around for the ages, and was one of the main battle of the 1st century church) is not the pattern the King of Kings is seeking for those who desire to worship Him.

God has established a pattern by which his people are to worship, and the world has a different pattern (Romans 12:1-3). God’s pattern was laid out to Moses in the building of the Tabernacle, (Exodus 25-27, 30-31) and is renewed in the Life of Jesus (John 1, Hebrews 9:11-15) and was followed by Paul. (1 Cor. 4:16, 11:1, Phil.3:17 2 Tim 1:13). It is God’s desire to dwell among his people; the Tabernacle of the Old Testament shows how common people can have fellowship with a Holy God. (Exodus 25:8-9). The Tabernacle of the New Testament is the re-born life in Christ, (John 3:3, Gal 2:20) and our body is the tabernacle of the Holy Spirit. Within the pattern of the Tabernacle and Domains (inspired by Moses’s discipiling the nation of Israel) all aspects of life were engaged as worship.  Again, the whole is the focus not the sum of parts or even the parts without the whole. All of the law is fulfilled in the life of Jesus – and it is the Spirit of Jesus which has been given to us that we might exalt and worship the King.

This week’s scriptures focus on the integration of our lives. Even if we live without deceit, having right actions (body) and right attitude (soul), but truly fail to approach (spirit) Jesus in submission of spirit as Nathaniel did, what have we gained? When we know the truth of God’s Word, yet fail to apply it to our lives and in our places of authority – God is not worshiped and the Kingdom is not expanded. Eli focused on mental formation, but ignored the physical formation of himself, and the relational/emotional formation of his children. Samuel’s soul was in submission to Eli when he first heard the Spirit, for he had not be taught to hear the Lord. As Samuel responded the Holy Spirit, it transformed his actions (body) and attitude (soul), such that no word fell to the ground unanswered. Wholeness, in our heart is our process of holiness – and in holiness, God is worshiped and the Kingdom is expanded. God is concerned with the mundane actions of our lives just as much as the majestic and the mystical – when we sit and stand, even our very thoughts when we are thinking about nothing at all, remain a priority to God.

Therefore let Holiness be an integration of wholeness into my life as an act of worship!

First, it is important to acknowledge that you have a spirit as distinct from your body and soul. Your spirit is unique from the Holy Spirit, and while that may be obvious, the implications are not so commonly accepted. Your soul is unique from your spirit, in the same way that your body is unique from your soul. Your soul is uniquely expressed in your thoughts and emotions and your will that has impulses of its own. Your spirit must be reborn from above; your soul must be redeemed. The process of holiness begins with your spirit and lives and dies in the soul. Your body is not mere substance or flesh. God created your body to honor him and be a connective tool for worship. Further you body is so important to God that it will be fully resurrected.

Second (once you have the ingredients – make your banana split – by putting it all together) Seek to integrate your worship (actions, attitude, and approach) though the pattern of the Tabernacle.

Physical & Emotional formation are often rooted in the need to disciple your body.

Mental & Relational formation are rooted in your need to develop your soul.

Spiritual & Missional formation are rooted in your need to be directed by your spirit.

Finally, be you!

You were designed to worship the King in holiness… it is not about having the right actions (alone), or the right attitude (only), or the right approach (without the rest); it is about having the righteousness of God – which is a gift. So bask in the Son of the Almighty – He as given his life for you, now give your live for him.

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Holy Spirit gives Lottery #’s to big winners!

Posted on January 5, 2015 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle – The Holy Spirit moves; motivating and molding the heart of the Kingdom.

Genesis 1:1-5 Psalm 29 Acts 19:1-7 Mark 1:4-11

Winning the lottery is a very real hope for many people. Even if they never win,  just having the hope of winning is enough to motivate people to get up  in the morning and keep playing. They have faith knowing that  if by chance – they win… all things will change in that moment.  Think of how foolish it would be to buy a lottery ticking, hoping to win, only to refuse to check your ticket to see if your numbers are the big winner. And yet, this is the very foolishness that many Christians live their life – having access (a ticket in their hands) to the Holy Spirit, but never checking-in to see if what they have makes any difference.  Statistically, people know the lottery is not going to be won by everyone, the odds are not in their favor – but it still yields a billion dollar draw – with the very hope that it might someday pay off. The Holy Spirit is unlimited in its ability to be a “pay-off” for everyone who “plays” but too many are going through the motions of Christianity (having a ticket, but not checking the numbers) and not even seeming to miss the benefits of the Holy Spirit.

While much has been written in this blog on the “benefits of the Spirit”:

This will be a reflection on what prevents us from hearing the Holy Spirit in your life – which is as simple and necessary as checking your numbers to see if you won the lottery, yet so many fail to do so…. (for a how-to guide – here is the best book I have found) Those how have given their life to Jesus Christ possessing such a “ticket”, but there is so much more for you than holding a get “out of hell” ticket. To actually play the game of life and getting on the ride of  life believers must choose to hear from the Spirit each day (checking your numbers). Please forgive the gambling references to the role of the Holy Spirit – and rather focus on the foolishness of buying a lottery ticket – only resist checking the numbers…. Let’s avoid this foolishness in our pursuit to Exalt the King and Expand the Kingdom.

For too many believers in Jesus, the reason the Holy Spirit does not make any difference in their lives is that they are content living their lives without hearing from the Spirit. There are those who live in this contentment out of ignorance, much like the men who Paul encountered in Ephesus, and there are others who actually choose not to have the Holy Spirit overwhelm their plans.  The root issue of this is a lie from the enemy, that proclaims you can “enjoy the comfort and control of their lives” without the disruption of the Spirit. Yet tied to this lie is a truth that the Holy Spirit can not be contained or controlled by us. During this season of Epiphany (Jan. – Feb) we will be looking at the difference – The Holy Spirit makes in the lives of those who live in the Kingdom of God.

When Jesus was baptized, by John it was not because he “needed” it – it is because we needed it.  Jesus was without sin – and John’s baptism was one of repentance and forgiveness of sin. It is no wonder that John questioned this act of baptism Jesus stating “I’m not worthy to baptize you…”  and yet in this act the Heavens were torn open and the Holy Spirit descended.  This is certainly not the first time the Holy Spirit moved on the earth, but it does exemplify the movement of God’s Spirit upon our lives when we open ourselves and publicly declare that He is our King. In this the King declares that we are his children.

Below are three ways to look at why you may not be hearing the Holy Spirit.  These will contrast the way we move in life between a GPS and a SPG system.  Most of us have experienced  a GPS directional system (global positioning systems) which is not on all smart phones.  SPG stands for Spiritual Positioning Guidance, in order to be guided by the Spirit we must learn to position ourselves to hear the Spirits “voice”. We must learn to tune into the right signal.  Without the right web address, all the information of the Internet is of no use to you, but just because you don’t access it, does not remove its presence.  What many believers really want is GPS to tell us where to go,  not SPG (Holy Spirit Guidance) to tell us who we are.

Are you motivated by the Destination? (Where)

  • GPS – we input where we want to go
  • SPG- we receive where we need to be

We don’t hear because we are not asking. – Luke 11:9-13

Are you motivated by the Directions? (How)

  • GPS – we expect the “quickest” route
  • SPG – we experience the “best” rout

We don’t hear because we are not listening – Luke 12:27-34

Are you motivated by the Information? (What & Why)

  • GPS – we depend on the most current updated results
  • SPG – we draw from the wisdom and awareness of the ages

We don’t hear because we over-value what we already know – Luke 12:54-13:9

This week  – Ask the Holy Spirit to “speak to you”, Then take time to listen… Finally – “Check your numbers” this is a metaphor for learning how to embrace and experience your story through a God given lens and purpose. These “numbers” are what lead you to the a winning combination of life.

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