My Friday Fave - Piper

Piper hung out with the girls yesterday! 

Sarah's former roommates from NGU shared their glasses and lots of love with the adorable granddaughter. It's hard to believe she's already seven months old. 

Time flies.

 

How An Introvert Does Life

Are you an Introvert?  

As described by psychologist Carl Jung, introversion refers to energy flow and the tendency of some people to draw energy from the inner world -- their focus is inward, on ideas and reflection, and they typically seek solitude to recharge their batteries. Many enjoy people and welcome social encounters and aren't shy at all, but too much socializing would be draining for them.

My recent admission to being an introvert was met with disbelief and a few hints of laughter as our writer's group cackled till midnight—yet it’s oh so true. I love people and enjoy "doing life" with women in different settings throughout the week, but without times of solitude, my battery is quickly zapped.

During our ten month search for a church home, we remained open to the Spirit’s leading in regard to a Sunday School format vs. life/small groups. For various reasons, the more structured-type teaching has always appealed to me a little more. We’ve “done life” with groups in the past and counted each a blessing, but I struggled nonetheless. 

Brian and I knew life groups were an integral part of Summit Church before visiting but it wasn't until several weeks later, when we began sensing a true attachment to the church, that the reality of life groups hit home.

This won’t be comfortable.

Four words that sent my brain into a frenzy, like rowdy toddlers on a playground, until Truth quieted them with five words of His own.

Who says it should be?

In that glorious moment of conviction I realized how complacent I’d become. Since when did anything worth pursuing feel comfortable? Confession came quick (Hebrews 10:I9) and freedom forged in forgiveness swiftly followed.

This conviction, coupled with Sunday's powerful message by our Campus Pastor, Brooke Taylor, left me feeling excited about the life group we were to attend that evening. One truth in particular from the message spoke life into this introvert's soul: 

Community doesn't just happen -- it requires intentionality.

Here's why I share my testimony: I know I'm not alone. There are others out there who feel there’s no greater place to be than a quiet nook, furnished with a good book and a hot cup of tea. I get it—but this doesn’t mean we’re not cut out for life groups. It simply means we require an extra dose of intentionality, with a booster shot of courage.

 

Turns out, our first visit to a Summit life group was a tremendous blessing (thank you Kevin and Carolyn!) We were warmly welcomed and felt right at home. As we drove away, I felt so energized by the group I almost mistook myself for an extrovert!

What about you? Have you ever allowed your comfort zone to impede God's best for you? 

Be encouraged. Your glorious moment may be right around the corner. 

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.  Hebrews 19:24,25

 

Sunday Snippets - Putting the Gospel on Display

Welcome to Sunday Snippets!

Campus Pastor Brook Taylor delivered a timely message from Acts 2:42-45 this morning. As with all the Snippets, I try to jot down everything verbatim, but it's not always possible.To listen to the sermon in its entirety, I invite you to visit Summit's site. 

Here goes...

• Listening to or viewing a sermon online/TV isn't a bad thing -- but using this as our only means of doing church is not how the Church was designed to work with the Word of God. [Watch for an upcoming blog post as I explore this subject in more detail. -CB]
• Sometimes, in searching for the "right" small group we think that being around others who are like us in life stage, affinities, backgrounds, etc. will naturally make us more apt to draw closer to the Lord -- but the truth of the matter is that biblical community thrives through our common identity in Christ. He is the only commonality we need to enjoy true fellowship. Rubbing elbows with those who have different strengths, weaknesses, and struggles helps us to grow as Christ followers. [Watch for an upcoming blog post on this subject as well - a personal testimony, if you will. -CB]
• True community doesn't just happen. We must be intentional.
• The more we pursue Jesus Christ, the more we'll have a growing love for His people.
• Intimacy with God is the pursuit of God amidst the people of God.

I'll close with the final question that was posed to us: Are you engaged in true biblical community? 

If not, what's holding you back? Stay tuned this week as I share some of my own personal journey with life/small groups. You may be surprised.

My Friday Fave - Wired for a Life of Worship

A favorite yard sale find a few years ago, Wired for a Life of Worship, by Louie Giglio, continues to impart wisdom, delight, and a fresh appreciation for the endless attributes of our mighty God. 

One half of the book is devoted to the subject of worship:

"Our lives are on loan from God, a sacred trust of opportunities and decisions. And every one of our choices is made on a battlefield with heavenly ramifications." -Giglio

The other half invites the reader to engage in private worship by reading specific psalms, asking us to record the different attributes of God found in the text. In a plentiful space nearby, readers can write, draw, do whatever we like to express our gratitude for one attribute of our choosing. 

Titling the pages of praise is one of my favorite things to do because it quiets my soul long enough to consider who God truly is -- such as Joyful, Listener, Satisfier, The Perfect Parent, Illuminator, My Fortress, Giver of Eternal Blessings, etc.


Searching for a unique worship experience? Look no further.

Three Things to Remember During Your Church Search

Searching for a new church home is rarely easy, but as our ten month journey comes to a close, I discovered a few "to-do's" that helped me stay focused and open to God's leading:

• Stay spiritually alert. Laziness has a way of creeping in the back window and snuggling up to our strongest spiritual pursuits when church life is turned upside down. I was hit broadside by a temptation that almost kept us from visiting the very church God led us to join. Looking back, I now see where a lack of discipline on my part unlocked the window, inviting laziness to dull my discernment.

• Seek out community. Don’t wait for it to land in your lap. While in between churches it’s all too easy to lose contact with others. Staying connected, whether it’s over the phone or a cup of coffee, is vital. Make the effort.

• Be grateful. The Body of Christ is a magnificent living, breathing, family. Yes, we’re all a mess but we are a beautiful mess in the eyes of our Father. While visiting churches, I encourage you to see each one as an extension of your family -- and allow the spirit of gratitude to bubble up. If you’re not welcomed as expected, give grace. (Thankfully, with Sally at Summit’s doors, this is never an issue.) If you sense a pastor or person is struggling, be slow to complain and quick to pray.

We visited many wonderful churches and we thank God for those He allowed us to meet in the process. At Rocky Creek in particular, I met women who are sure to be friends regardless of where we belong. Now that's the Body of Christ!

In the end, Brian and I felt led to become team members at Summit Church. We look forward to becoming more deeply connected through life groups, serving, and the teaching of God's Word.

If you're currently searching for a new church, I welcome the opportunity to pray for you. Feel free to email me or leave a comment. Blessings!

Sunday Snippets

Welcome to Sunday Snippets!

Jason Malone picked up in Galatians 4:8-11 this morning. As mentioned last week, I try to jot everything down verbatim, but it's not always possible. To listen to the sermon in its entirety, I invite you to visit Summit's site.


What’s your greatest desire? To be a man/woman of God? To be a godly father/mother? To see your children/grandchildren fully devoted to Jesus Christ?

• Nothing hijacks our desires quicker than idolatry -- which is anything or anyone that occupies the place that should be occupied by God alone.

Jesus + Nothing = Everything

Jesus + Anything = Nothing

• Nobody is an unbeliever. We either believe in the one true God or we’re a slave to worshiping gods. Christ followers are not enslaved, but we are tempted to put other things in God's place.

• "Idols" aren’t always bad, but idolatry is. To be enslaved to - or to lust for something - is to over desire. It doesn’t mean having a normal size desire for something evil, but an over-sized desire for something that’s good. We lust after achievements, sex, money, etc. because the idol comes in saying if you have me, you'll be fulfilled.

• Why do we put things where God should be? Because in those moments, we choose to love something or someone more than we love Jesus. 

• The Gospel is the motivation for all life change.

• We all worship—so what is sitting on the throne of your life? Who or what is competing with God’s place?

Idolatry is always the reason we ever do anything wrong. 

-Martin Luther

Additional Resources:

Counterfeit Gods: The Empty Promises of Money, Sex, and Power, and the Only Hope that Matters, by Tim Keller, Reviews

Jesus + Nothing = Everything, Tullian Tchividjian

My Friday Fave - Thanks to Dad

 

Dad and Piper playing at the beach

3 Favorite Life Lessons -- Thanks to My Dad:


Be a Giver, Not a Taker
Dropping off a bag of groceries, instructing the boys in golf, or taking time out of a busy schedule to complete “A Father’s Legacy” book are just a few examples of why my dad is one of the most generous people I know. For him, giving comes as natural as his next breath. His parents were two of the most giving people in their community so it comes as no surprise that their legacy continues through dad.

Watch for Ways to Serve Others
My dad has an innate sense when it comes to seeing the needs of others. On most Saturday mornings you could catch him quietly delivering goodies on the doorstep of elderly neighbors or delivering firewood to those nearby. By example, he continues to show me the meaning of true joy: Serving others instead of expecting to be served by others.


Have Fun
Growing up, we spent many a weekend up in the mountains in a little wooden cabin perched high above ground, peering over a lake fed by crystal-like springs. There, dad taught me how to bait my own hook and reel in the brim for an evening fish fry. Back home, we’d play hide-n-seek the minute dusk created shadows. Dad knew how to have fun and he always invited us to come along for the unforgettable ride. 

The list could continue for days but the above lessons give you a sneak peek into why I have reason to celebrate this Father's Day...and every day. 

Happy Father's Day, Dad!

Wordless Wednesday - A Quiet Stroll

Up For a Summer Challenge?

Thanks to friends Lori and Lynn, I was introduced to the book 40 Ways to Get Closer to God, by Jerry (Chip) MacGregor with Keri Wyatt Kent.

I downloaded it via Amazon, but I've not yet set sail on this journey, so I'm curious—would you be interested in joining me for this summer challenge?

Here's a brief description of what awaits us:

Practical Steps to a Deeper Faith. Sometimes faith demands action. This practical book gives Christians ideas for how to adjust their hearts to get closer to God.

Each chapter contains a unique challenge and a brief explanation that puts the challenge in context. The challenges are broad in scope, allowing people with varying personality types and learning styles to benefit from them.

Everyone moves at their own pace, but as I post about the various ways, you could join in the fun, if you wish. Or, if you're more comfortable sharing one-on-one, email or meet me for coffee.

Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. James 4:8

Are you ready for a summer challenge? Me too! 

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sunday Snippets

Today I'd like to introduce a new series, Sunday Snippets. 

Summit Church has an amazing team of pastors including Jason Malone, Kyle Estepp, and the Mauldin Campus Pastor, Brooke Taylor. One cannot help but want to take notes—and share them—so every Sunday afternoon, I plan to post pithy points jotted down during the morning service.

Most are not written down verbatim. Please visit Summit's site to listen to the sermon in its entirety, if you wish.  


Kyle continued in Galatians 3:25 - 4:7, focusing on our adoption in Christ. 

Three ways becoming a child of God changes us:

1. Our adoption secures us. It's a love that cannot be earned or achieved, but simply received. 

2. Our adoption embraces us. It says you are My child. It's a love that gives us unlimited access to our Father at all times—a love that can never be taken from us. Never!

3. Our adoption motivates us. In biblical times, the oldest son carried on the family business. As children of God, we too are to carry on - to display - the Father's work through our lives.

Because of our access to the Father, our position in Christ, and our empowerment through the Holy Spirit, why do we so often choose to live as orphans and hired servants instead of children of the King? 

Let us choose to live in the freedom of our adoption!

 

Suggested reading:  Adopted for Life, The Priority of Adoption for Christian Families and Churches, Russell D. Moore

 

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. Romans 8:14-17

Friday Fave - Writing Tides

Favorite quotes included in Writing Tides, a recent read by Kent Ira Groff :

Writing is a way of paying attention to things twice, savoring their layers, their essence. -Groff

The world is charged with the grandeur of God...And for all this, nature is never spent; There lives the dearest freshness deep down things. -Gerald Manley Hopkins, God's Grandeur

No surprise in the writer, no surprise in the reader. -Robert Frost

Worriers have active imaginations.  So use your creative gift to create optional endings to the same predicament. That's the stuff novels are made of. That's why they're called novels—they give you a novel slant on the peculiar dynamics of life. -Groff

Many of the best insights come unbidden in a moment of not thinking directly about a subject. -Groff

There are years of our lives that ask questions and years that answer. -Zora Neale Hurston, Their Eyes Were Watching God

Swimming lessons are better than a lifeline to the shore. -C.S. Lewis, The Weight of Glory

Healthy disciplines embody oscillating tides of solitude and solidarity, contemplation and communication, resting and risking, silence and speech. -Groff

Currently...

Obsessing over: Hydrangeas. Bountiful blooms scattered throughout the garden greeted us upon our arrival Saturday afternoon. The Nikko blue hydrangeas were snipped from a plant I dug up in my grandmother's yard prior to her move to assisted living, making them extra special to me.

Working on: A writing schedule. I’ve allowed a multitude of distractions to disrupt the schedule I began in January but today is a new day! I returned from the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Conference with a fresh sense of purpose, including a renewed desire to step up my devotional writing. While at the beach last week, I learned that Upper Room decided to accept my meditation. The publish date is May/June 2013. Talk about revving up a writing engine!

Thinking about: How much I’d enjoy a screened-in porch right now. (Perhaps, I should instead be thinking about the pitfalls of envy)

Anticipating: The arrival of our second grandchild -- a little boy from Uganda. We're not sure when his arrival will take place but we are certain that God has His hand upon him and is preparing him to become part of a family that already loves him very much.

Listening to: Bumblers smack the window panes as if they’re doing somersaults off a spanking new Springfree™ trampoline. It doesn't get much more exciting than this, friends.

Eating: Healthier. Steven James, when speaking on The Four Secrets to Success, told of how we need to keep tuning our instrument (minds), which included eating healthy foods and exercising.

Wishing: I’d had more options yesterday when I had to put our cat to sleep. She'd been gone for about a week and returned home injured quite badly. She was, by far, the sweetest outdoor cat that's ever happened upon my back porch. Lucy will be missed.

Despite the last entry, composing this post was a lot of fun. Want to give it a try on your blog? Check out the post that inspired this one, thanks to Allison Martin, first-place winner for the blog category. Visit her site, The Budget Maven, and you'll see why.

The Applause of One

Only hours before the awards ceremony at Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer's Conference, I crossed paths with Julie at the Cloud Cafe. Although I’d received a positive critique from Dr. Donn Taylor the day prior, I had low expectations of placing in this year’s poetry contest and I was disappointed -- not in the assumed outcome, but by the fact that I was...well, disappointed. Why did the award mean so much? Did it mean too much? Would a loss deter me from the path of poetry?

God, through Julie, helped me to see how I was on the cusp of believing the lie that a piece of paper could validate my writing—to myself and to others. God alone stirs this heart to communicate and takes the work to places of His making. I simply need to be obedient (is there anything simple about obedience?)

Tears flowed. Hope arose. God's Validation Gratefully Received. Win or Lose.

Later than evening, as Eva Marie Everson announced the winners for the poetry category, peace sheltered my heart from any possible disappointment. And then I heard these unexpected words: In first place, the winner is...“The One” by Cathy Baker.

Can I be honest? Hearing your name called, while thunderous applause erupts from those you most respect, is an unforgettable experience. And yet, while making my way to the stage I recalled a quote written in my journal many years ago:

“It matters not if the world has heard or approves or understands...the only applause we're meant to seek is that of nail-scarred hands.” ― B.J. Hoff

To God be the glory.

Not What My Hands Have Done

Not what my hands have done can save my guilty soul;
not what my toiling flesh has borne can make my spirit whole.
Not what I feel or do can give me peace with God;
not all my prayers and sighs and tears can bear my awful load.

These guilty hands are raised, filthy rags are all I bring
And I have come to hide beneath your wings
These holy hands are raised, Washed in the fountain of your grace
And now I wear your righteousness

Thy work alone oh Christ can ease this weight of sin
Thy blood alone, oh Lamb of God, can give me peace within
Thy Love to me, oh God, not mine oh Lord to Thee
Can rid me of this dark unrest and set my Spirit free

Thy grace alone oh God to me can pardon speak
Thy power alone oh Lamb of God can this sore bondage break
No other work save thine, no other blood will do
No strength but that which is divine can bear me safely through

I praise the God of grace; I trust his truth and might
He calls me his, I call him mine, My God, my Joy, my Light
My Lord has saved my life and freely pardon gives;
I love because he first loved me, I live because he lives.
- Aaron Keyes

The Center of Our Attention

Care to guess who quickly became the center of attention

this week at the beach?

And rightfully so.

Zach and Piper

Sarah and Piper

 Brandon and Piper

 Megan and Piper

 Dad and Piper

Piper's first swimmie time

Last year we knew a baby girl would be joining us for this year's family beach trip—and now, Lord willing, we look forward to introducing Brandon and Megan's little boy to the yearly family beach trips next summer. 

All good gifts truly are from the Lord above. (James 1:17)