Mental Post-Its

Thoughts, Notes, and General Mental Mayhem

Category Archives: Christianity


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Are We There Yet? The Two Towers (Part 2 of 3)

screen-shot-2016-12-10-at-2-29-01-pmAre We There Yet? The Two Towers (Part 2 of 3)

This is part two in my series of lessons I learned from The Lord of the Rings trilogy, one of my favorite movie series of all time. I’m a huge fan of the movies but don’t think I’ve necessarily reached geek status because I couldn’t get through the books except on audio. The Hobbit was so much easier to read! But if I’m lying to myself, I’m okay with that, too.

Funny story on that note: When I saw the first movie in the theater, there were some “true” fans sitting behind me. When the Fellowship entered Rivendell and the camera panned back to show the kingdom, a guy behind me whispered to his friend, “It’s more beautiful than I imagined!” True story; still makes me laugh.

Now on with it…

  1. Middle men. Being stuck in the middle is never cupcakes and butterflies. This is my favorite of all three movies for a number of reasons: the stage is already set, the tension is great and the stakes are high. We know where we’ve been and we know where we’re headed. We’re just not quite sure what the road to getting there looks like. I feel this way many times in life. It’s not an easy place to be, but it is familiar.
  2. Two-faced. I think Andy Serkis does a masterful job of playing Gollum. And his monologue in this movie is particularly brilliant. I believe we all have a little bit of Gollum in us. We all struggle between wanting to serve and be the master. We all crave power.  We all believe the lies Satan tells us sometimes. The Apostle Paul even wrote about it in Romans 7:7-25 and it’s as fitting then as it is now. Gollum let it destroy him in the end. I pray we make better choices.
  3. A second look. When Gandalf reappears, he is no longer Gandalf the Gray but instead Gandalf the White. Though he is different in some ways, he is still the same. The Fellowship recognizes him and it comforts them. We must remember that there are times when God can look different than He did before in our eyes but He is still the same, mighty God. And that is a comfort. His Truth doesn’t change.
  4. Talking trees. Come on, you know I couldn’t go without some sort of environmental message! Respect for creation is respect for the Creator. And I think we can clearly see that it’s not good to piss off nature or it will revolt.
  5. The Battle of Helm’s Deep. At some point we will all have our own Helm’s Deep, a great conflict that will be known as a turning point in our lives. This battle was extended because the King of Rohan thought that the fortress was impenetrable. He didn’t know his weakness, and therefore, lost many more lives and almost lost the battle. The key for us is to know our weaknesses. As our friend G.I. Joe would say, “Knowing is half the battle.” We’ll certainly have more of an advantage if know where the Enemy can strike us. It’s just good strategy.
  6. Director’s Cut. Peter Jackson has a cameo in each of his movies, which I think is pretty fun. Be sure to look for him in each one. If you know what he looks like, you’ll easily spot him even if the shots are usually just for a second or so. Though directors are usually behind-the-scenes, sometimes they can pop up where we least expect them, in front of the camera. But it certainly doesn’t mean they’ve taken their eyes off the big picture. The same holds true for God. We’ll see the Director if we are looking for him and know how to recognize Him.
  7. Be careful not to burn bridges. The Elves showed up just in time to fight alongside the army of men. The captain said it was to honor an old alliance.  So, the lesson here is to never burn bridges. You never know when you may need to call on an old friend.
  8. Say it again, Sam. Okay, so Sam’s speech at the end of the second movie is one of my favorites in cinematic history.  I know, that’s saying a lot – especially as many movies as I’ve seen. But I love it so much, that I usually watch it at least twice when I’m going through the movies. This time, I watched it three times so I’m using it for points eight through ten. Number eight is about doubt.  Sam wonders how good can reemerge after evil has shown itself. After the horrors that happen around us every day, it’s perfectly normal to have doubt. In fact, blind faith is just dumb – mindless. God tells us to test the spirits in 1 John 4:1 to make sure they are of God.
  9. Plenty of chances. Sam says that the characters in the greatest stories are heroic because they were given plenty of chances to turn back, but didn’t. There will always be hardships but our character is shown by our choices. People will see our faith more by how we handle hard times than anything else. Our greatest sermon is our life story.
  10. Worth fighting for. Sam ends his monologue with the same positive outlook that he is known for in the trilogy. He declares that heroes decide to take risks because they see good in the world and are determined to fight for it. I think this is a pretty good way to live. Simple, but not always easy.

Okay, kids, I hope you are enjoying reading these entries as much as I’m enjoying writing them. Gosh, I love these movies! Only one more part to go before we reach the end of this journey – stay tuned!

 

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My Precious: The Fellowship of the Ring (Part 1 of 3)

screen-shot-2016-12-10-at-2-28-04-pmMy Precious: The Fellowship of the Ring (Part 1 of 3)

Unlike a lot of people, I don’t watch movies purely for entertainment’s sake. Don’t get me wrong; it’s a favorite pastime of mine but besides looking for cute boys and a fun storyline, I also watch for greater truths and lessons. It’s part of what makes movies an artistic medium for me. I think that they can reach and touch people in a way that nothing else can.

And anyone who knows me knows that the Lord of the Rings trilogy contains some one of my favorite movies of all time. In fact, I watch them pretty regularly and I always have the desire to start over once I’ve watched them through. I can’t get enough! Maybe it’s because they are epic in nature, maybe it’s because Orlando Bloom is in them or maybe it’s because they resonate deeply within me. Okay, so probably a combo feature there.

I watched the trilogy again this weekend while I was relaxing and wanted to share a few of the things I picked up on from each movie. Because J.R.R. Tolkien was a Christian, numerous parallels can be, and have been, drawn between his works and our beliefs.

Here are a few I came up with for your consideration:

1. Sacred pathways. You have probably learned by now that you can never predict the path to your calling. Frodo never saw himself going on a great journey. I never saw myself in Atlanta at this time in my life. I’m actually way off my ten-year plan past college. And my guess is that you are, too, at least to some degree. Plans are not a bad thing, but don’t get so set in them that you miss the adventure of a lifetime and the calling God has for your life. It may just be the most amazing surprise you could ever imagine.

2. Never go it alone. I’m a pretty independent person, but as long as I live, you will always hear me stress the importance of relationships. We were not meant to go through life alone. We were created in the image of the Father, Son and the Spirit – by community and for community.

3. Pushing the envelope. When you are serving God, expect to be pushed further than you’ve ever gone. When Frodo and Sam meet the edge of The Shire, Sam takes note that this is the farthest that he has ever been. We all know that this is such a short distance compared to what is ahead because we know there are two more movies. When God is at work, our limits will be tested and pushed beyond where we think we can go. It’s only at this point we realize that with His help, we can go much further because He has no limits.

4. Strange allies. Just like the nine in the Fellowship, some of the greatest experiences of my life have been with people that I never would’ve guessed. They may not even be people I would’ve picked. However, it is always important to be open because it may just be these people who get you where you need to go.

5. Wounds are inevitable. Whether it’s a physical wound like Frodo’s on Weathertop, an emotional wound like the loss of Gandalf, or some other type, being human means that hurt is unavoidable. Being able to appropriately deal with pain through grieving and support will make all the difference.

6. Size doesn’t matter. Galadriel told Frodo, “Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.” I agree. My little blip on history’s radar screen will be full of choices and consequences. My life will matter. My actions will affect others. So will yours.

7. Line? We all have a role to play in this epic adventure. Each of the nine brought something special and specific to the Fellowship. We each have a job to do and a calling to fulfill on this blue and green ball that no one else was uniquely designed for. If we don’t do it, who will? If you don’t know your gifts, strengths and talents, find them out so you can be the greatest you possible. (If you aren’t sure how to find them, ask me for resources.)

8. The seduction of power. Just like Boromir, too many great men and women have fallen as a result of the seduction of power. No one is immune. Draw close to Jesus, ask for accountability and check your motives to make sure you don’t become a casualty.

9. Decisions, decisions. “All you have left to do is to decide what to do with the time given to you,” Gandalf reminds Frodo. The same is true for each of us. We all have the same 24-hour period, even if our options differ. Make decisions that would bring honor and glory to God and you won’t go wrong. When you do, remind yourself that after each dark night will come another bright dawn.

10. Separate ways, same mission. At the end of the first movie, the nine is separated into several different groups. For some it was a conscious decision, for others it was forced. Yet even though their paths took different turns than they originally thought they would, they still all had the same mission. Their allegiance was still to each other and the greater purpose.

Well, that’s my recap for the first movie. Take a bathroom break, grab your popcorn and stay tuned for thoughts on The Two Towers!

 

(Note: Amazon links are affiliate links.)


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Sign Up for the July Emergence Journey!

emergence journey

Hi, guys!

It’s time to sign up for Emergence Journey 2009! I hope you have been thinking and praying about this opportunity. We would love to have you be a part of this amazing experience. Please sign up by July 1st! And please feel free to ask me, Daron or Mark if you have any questions!

Emergence Dates 2009:

> July 1 – sign up ends
> July 17-19, 29 – training 2
> July 30-Aug 3 – trip 2

Please note:

1. The training will be retreat style, so participants will be going away for the weekend on Friday evening and returning around 5 pm on Sunday evening. It’s a really intense weekend, but it will be a lot of fun, too.

2. These trips are open to anyone wanting to participate, either at North Atlanta or outside it, single or married. If you know of anyone wanting to participate in this trip, you are welcome to pass this along to them. We only ask that you communicate two things. The first is that anyone who goes must be willing to be led by God’s Holy Spirit. The second is that the person must be willing to “act as Jesus” to those they come in contact with on the trip. These two things are vital to maintain the integity, mission and purpose of this trip. Anyone willing to adhere to these things may participate on the Emergence Journey!

3. These are all the trips we currently have planned for 2009. However, if you can not make either of these trips and can gather a few friends for a fall trip, we will absolutely consider another one.

I have previous trip newsletters, a training summary and a 2009 FAQ sheet available. Please let us know if you have any questions or need more information. 

We hope that you will prayerfully consider joining the Journey!

Kristi, Daron and Mark

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What is the Emergence Journey?

The Emergence Journey is unconventional in that it starts with no destination or persons in mind; therefore no “preplanning” is necessary. All of the preparation comes in team-building and self-awareness exercises. This trip evolves during the journey rather than starting at the destination. The opportunities and relationships that are often overlooked or passed up when schedules are set and destinations are planned are fully experienced here, allowing you to free your mind to the possibilities at hand. A random act of kindness and open heart are the only requirements. We allow the Holy Spirit to fill in the details. Additionally, we operate from loose guidelines to allow the trip to shift as needed. For instance, we travel back roads rather than interstates when possible and avoid eating at chain restaurants, making it easier to meet local people. We also build a Safety Net of Prayer, a list of people who are praying for us every hour that we are on the road. And finally, we avoid turning on the radio and using our cell phones if possible, utilizing time rather than killing it.


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The Multi-Headed “Aaron”

Small Group 06-07

Box o’ Fun – Putt Putt at Pirate’s Cove! (L-R…Karen, Ben, Patrick, Kristi, Brandy, Sara)

Recently, the speaker at a church retreat I attended talked about the concept of having “Aarons” in your life. This concept is taken from Exodus 4:14 where God tells Moses, “He (Aaron) is already on his way to meet you, and his heart will be glad when he sees you.” John, the speaker, talked about these treasured people in your life who make your heart smile, and whose heart you make smile. I am very privileged to have several of these in my life, but tonight, another one came to mind that I hadn’t yet thought about in those terms…

My friend, Ben, and I were reminiscing about a previous small group we were in together a couple of years ago with our friends Patrick, Karen, Brandy and Sara. It was a true small group in every sense of the world. For one thing, there were only six of us. I know that played a big role in it because everyone was depended upon to be present and speak. You could definitely feel a gap when someone was gone. But more importantly, the six of us were committed to this group.

The really interesting thing was that none of us were really close before being in this group together. To be honest, there was probably good reason. We had different tastes, interests, roles, circles of friends, you name it. Karen and I probably had the strongest relationship but she was still a little new to Atlanta and I wouldn’t have considered us super close at the time. So, here we were, just kind of this little hodge-podge of people doing life together on a weekly basis. But for whatever reason, we all firmly decided that we were going to make this group a real community. Despite the friends we all had outside this group that we could turn to in good and bad times instead, the six of us were going to give this a go. We all took the dive together. That meant being consistent, being intimate, being accountable and being real. It was just us when we showed up: good or bad mood, struggles, imperfections, gifts, talents, sarcasm, encouragement, etc. We didn’t worry about acceptance – we already pledged to give that to each other. So, with that out of the way, it left room for a lot of amazing things.

And God was faithful in filling that space with amazing things. We would start the lessons that we were supposed to be discussing that week, but it would inevitably lead to something that was on someone’s heart and that would take over. It would become this absolutely heart-felt, raw conversation between regular people living regular lives that longed to know their Creator, and each other, better. It was awesome. It was powerful. It was life-changing.

We were beautifully entrenched in each other’s lives. When one of us struggled, the rest of us were there to encourage and walk alongside them. We never hurt alone. There were some major life crises and heartaches for a few of us over that year. It was a comfort knowing that those people cared, and that they would ask you about it. But there was also a lot of playing and laughing. In fact, in order to get to know each other better, we did one thing each month outside of group together. We called it our Box o’ Fun. Each of us submitted ideas into the box and we drew one out every month. It was always exciting, and always fun, so there you go – good name. And it stuck. (And I’m proud to say many of our small groups have even adopted this concept.) It was nice to come and eat meals together every week and have these amazing discussions. But it was icing on the cake to take part in each other’s hobbies or interests. Lots and lots of laughing.

I guess it sounds like all lollipops, hearts and giggles, but we had our hard times. In fact, we had some really hard times. We were imperfect people and that definitely showed up from time to time. There were lots of nights when someone didn’t feel like participating, or was moody, or had something heavy on their hearts. But we all knew that it wasn’t us as individuals. It wasn’t us as a group. It wasn’t even them. It was just one off night. So, some times we let it go. But if attention needed to be called to it, we did. We had a few interventions. We had some definite, strong accountability. We drew some boundaries. We had some tears. But it was always honest, and always in love – we all knew that without a doubt. And sometimes those really hard nights were what made us stronger as a group. When you know you can say something really raw and difficult to someone, and know that love will remain between you afterwards, the fear is removed and the growth in both people takes place. There is almost nothing more beautiful.

I look back on it and I see the intentionality we took with each other. After all, our relationships didn’t come easy. Even as we went along in the group, we would laugh about how different we all were and what a funny bunch of people to end up together. How was this working? It was our longest running joke, and still is. But what a blessing in hearing and seeing how others operate and worship. We all learned a lot from each other.

I’m so thankful for those five other people. Each time I look back on that group, my heart does smile. We still have reunions from on occasion, too, which is pretty cool. We also still update each other on prayer requests once in a while. But it’s been a couple of years, and I’ve had a couple of other small groups and that experience has yet to be duplicated. However, now that I think about that, I think that’s ok. The other groups I’ve been in have all taught me new things about myself, those individuals, God and life. They have all contained new people that are now old friends. They have all met new needs in my life’s circumstances. So, maybe the same experience doesn’t need to be duplicated, maybe it needs to be multiplied. Maybe we all need to be out there multiplying that kind of experience for lots of others, so they can do the same. The ripple should continue. I truly believe that The Small Group Six (I just made that up) wasn’t this magical anomaly that will fade into memory, but rather a bold retelling of how Christ wants us to live in community with others. This updated version can begin again and again and again. I hope that we can each do our part to make that a reality.

So, thank you, Ben, Sara, Brandy, Karen and Patrick. You have changed my life. Your names are etched on my heart. You are my multi-headed Aaron who makes my heart smile. I pray that each of us will dig down within ourselves to show others the power of what we had, and the reality of what is possible. You guys are so special to me, and this is definitely dedicated to you! I may not have consistency with you, but I know I have connection with you. Thank you for making such an impact on me.

……………………………………………………………..

Ben – you are probably the most caring man I have ever met. I love every silly and serious conversation we have, and you bring joy into every room you enter. Your insight is beyond your years and your leadership is always needed.

Brandy – thank you for saying what is on your mind. Your authenticity challenges me to be more of who I am, and less of who I feel I need to be for others. You brought a rawness to the group that gave us freedom.

Sara – the words kind and gentle don’t do you justice. You have one of the sweetest hearts I’ve ever seen. Your ability to love and serve others amazes me, and I’m so thankful other cultures and people will be able to witness you in action.

Patrick – you have probably almost as many idiosyncrasies as I do! You are someone I always enjoy laughing with, and am guaranteed a good time when you are around. You came to us late, but were well worth the wait. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and thoughts. They led to a lot of great discussions.

Karen – my Kare Bear. For me, you are one of those rare people that I feel connected to without even trying. You and I have had so many life discussions, and I think we could talk for ages about anything. You challenge me in so many ways, and I’m thankful. I just love being near you…even if I don’t like watching movies with you!


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Meeting God at the Water Cooler?

Memorial Weekend was our annual beach retreat weekend. While I heard our speaker, John Turner, say a lot of really great things, I think the one thing that stuck with me was his concept of “work boundaries”. Specifically, he pointed out that “there is a time to say yes to work and a time to say no to work. Work isn’t as important as relationships and learning about yourself and God. We all have time demands. But God gave us the example to take time off, too.” This really struck me and I’ve thought about it in the days since retreat. This thought was definitely for me, and I’ve struggled with it for a very long time. I will work myself to death to get my goals accomplished, especially if people are depending on me. Without a doubt, I let my time with God slip while working on this retreat. Ironic, isn’t it? I absolutely have a tendency to work for God so much that I neglect my time with Him. Sometimes I can let it happen with others, too, but I definitely see it most in my relationship with God.


As I reflected on this at retreat, I thought about my current state. I find it easy to say no to work I don’t like. But I have a really difficult time saying no to work that I love. I definitely feel like God is calling my heart to ministry. I love the conversations. I love the ins and outs. I thrive off of thinking about all the subjects surrounding it. But I also have to be very careful not to let God become my co-worker in ministry. I have to always let Him take the lead. I have to give my ministry to Him and see how He wants it done. I have to remember that nothing I accomplish will be as good as He can accomplish within me and through me. And I have to remember that working for Him is no where near as important as living for Him. I have to spend more time with Him than at the water cooler.

I know this will continue to be a challenge for me. In ministry, there will always be so much to do, and I’ll want to think I can handle it all. It drives me nuts to think I can’t accomplish everything. I have no idea why I think I can live outside those limitations, but it’s always something I’ve had a hard time with. And in a sick way, it’s going to be hard to let that go…

I’m really good at multi-tasking. And it’s a skill I don’t want to lose. And so I guess that is why I think I can get it all done. So, for me to think about putting down some of those responsibilities and letting a few things slide is almost unbearable. I don’t want to give it up. I don’t want to think I can’t get it all done. I don’t want to not try to get it all done – even if I know I can’t. It’s like letting this shiny little skill go that I pride myself on. It’s a gift after all! And that is really hard for me to comprehend. But I also know that relationship is number one. That is where I need to focus. I either need to let some of the other stuff wait a bit longer than I want, be more efficient, ask for help to accomplish things, or “simply” let it go. None of those comfort me. But I also know that when I let my strengths and gifts get out of control, they are my greatest weaknesses. And they make me weak because they can separate me from the Creator who gave me those gifts. And irony rears it’s ugly head again.

Anyway, that concept is what I preach to people in Emergence, yet I have such a hard time seeing it in myself. I always think I can hold on just a little longer, the light is at the end of the tunnel. I just have to work this hard for a couple of weeks and then it will be over. But it’s never over. There is always more to do. There is always a new way to be busy. I thrive in busy! I can handle it, can’t I? Ugh, I’m sick and need help. I need my Lord. I need my God. I need my…time. Time with Him.

And so the struggle continues. But Emergence is all about “where awareness meets action” so maybe I’m in my awareness phase. Maybe my action phase is right around the corner. Maybe I need to practice what I preach!