ezekiel 1

whereas Daniel ends with a vision, Ezekiel starts off with a vision, a vision of crazy wing-ed dudes glowing like hot metal, and spaceships floating in the sky.

daniel 11:36-end

well this verse isn't too encouraging: "none of the wicked will understand, but those who are wise will understand". Hopefully i'm misunderstanding so much that i don't even get that passage. Anyhow, I find it interesting how the book ends. If it was a "story" we'd get to find out how Daniel marries, has kids, grows old , and continues to have grand adventures for God. But his escapades as described in the Bible end here with his apocryphal vision. I must admit i'm curious about what happens to Daniel, but this Bible is not really about him or individuals but how God works and communicates through them. I'll write my own ending: Daniel continued to pray morning, noon, and night to the one true God. He persevered diligently in doing God's work and was highly esteemed among both men and angels. Then he died. The End.

don't front

Acts 19:13-16

Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demonpossessed. They would say, “In the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out.” Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. (One day) the evil spirit answered them, “Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?” Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding.

heh. Paul did many miraculous things in the name of Jesus. but it wasn't his power, but the power of God working through him, through the Holy Spirit, through his faith. when some jews tried to cast out evil spirits, they failed miserably, and got their just rewards. They knew of the power of Jesus name, but they weren't believers and did not know Jesus.

happy easter

Probably wont make it out for early service at cbc.
But read exodus 19, and its interesting to note that to consecrate the Israelites one thing Moses had them do was to abstain from sexual relations. Probably weighted with other 'holy' restrictions this most likely caused the people to break out in this sinful frenzy which lead them to make that golden calf and stuff.
Its like that saying, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. However recently with all the stress from having to frantically finish this film project I've been not responding well to the tough times. arg.

Acts 18:24-28

Apollos got taken aside and got taught more the way of God more adaquately by a couple of women. Interesting. But then his example showed that he was willing to learn and take correction, which helped him to communicate better and also take down any Jew in debate. Booyah!

daniel 11:1-35

i'm struck by the specificity of this prophecy. Very detailed and matter of fact. None of that Miss Cleo bs going on here.

exodus 18

Jethro Moses' father in law totally gives Moses some awesome advice in dealing with his people by telling him to train new leaders and delegate tasks to other people so he doesnt get worn out. Sometimes we don't want to let go of certain projects and trust other people because we think we are the only ones that can do a good job.

Isaiah 53:3-8

I really like this passage.

"He was despised and forsaken of men,
A man of sorrows and acquainted with grief;
And like one from whom men hide their face
He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.

Surely our griefs He Himself bore,
And our sorrows He carried;
Yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken,
Smitten of God, and afflicted.

But He was pierced through for our transgressions,
He was crushed for our iniquities;
The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him,
And by His scourging we are healed.

All of us like sheep have gone astray,
Each of us has turned to his own way;
But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all
To fall on Him.

He was oppressed and He was afflicted,
Yet He did not open His mouth;
Like a lamb that is led to slaughter,
And like a sheep that is silent before its shearers,
So He did not open His mouth.

By oppression and judgment He was taken away;
And as for His generation, who considered
That He was cut off out of the land of the living
For the transgression of my people, to whom the stroke was due?"

.:.

Thinking about Jesus' suffering and the purpose of it is a sobering thought... the he took upon himself what which was supposed to be mine.

women care

luke 23:55-56
the women took care of Jesus' body and such, a task most people probably wouldn't care to do. and then they were the first to discover Jesus' body gone...which probably wasn't a good initial discovery, but then later on things turn out quite all right.

daniel 10

weird, very weird. This passage gives insight to the workings and doings of angels esp Prince Michael. Also Daniel is strengthened right after he asks for strengthening. Again he is highly esteemed.

exodus 17

The Israelites seem to be totally always demanding God to perform miracles for them. Not for God's glory but because that is what they want at the time. It's like me praying by going down the list of stuff that I want. Is that all God is to us, something like a genie in a bottle?

Psalm 86

More Psalms... again.

"Hear, O LORD, and answer me,
for I am poor and needy.
Guard my life, for I am deveoted to you.
You are my God; save your servant
who trusts in you.
Have mercy on me,O Lord,
for I call to you all day long."

There are times when you really feel like you need a hand or some help from God, but you don't always get it. God defies the notion of being a cosmic vending machine; He operates in ways we sometimes can't understand... but we're still allowed the freedom to cry out when we're in need.

looking out for #1

Mark 8:33
still struggling to step down and let God sit on the throne. Not my will, but yours oh Lord.

romans 8:31-37

Often I forget that if God is for us, then why am I afriad of persecution. It can even be with people that I have a good working relationship with, or friendship. But then I am still afraid of persecution. I guess in a way I want to let me "actions" speak, but then that just seems like the easy way out, sometimes. I just pray that I can be bold in little ways and then go on from there. at least it's going somewhere with it.

Psalm 70

More Psalms.

"Yet I am poor and needy;
come quickly to me, O God."

I think understand what David was talking about... and it's not money or wealth, it's reference to spiritual poverty.

daniel 9:20-27

ok i'm not afraid to say i have almost no idea what this passage is about since it's so cryptic. Howver 2 things stand out. 1) Daniel's prayer was answered as soon as he began to pray and 2) he was higly esteemed even in heaven.

1 Peter 3:13-17

Don't be an embarassment for the Lord. Be a witness with gentleness and respect.

exodus 16

Who are we? Moses says it twice to the Hebrews when they complained about not having food. Thinking about that phrase and the tendency for me to complain or criticise people/things, what right or authority do I have that puts me in the position to question what God is doing? Am I not just here to serve, to be a living sacrifice to Him? Who did the Hebrews think they were that they could grumble against God?

reflections

As sunday gets closer and closer, i look at where i'm at, and i find it far short of where i should be with God. of course, He died for us because no matter what we do, we still deserve punishment. By God's grace that gap has been bridged: all we have to do is make the step to walk across it. yet still we stumble and get distracted and wander off the path. I cannot fathon the depths of His love and grace for us.

HOUSEKEEPING

hey guys, we need to collect tabs to make sure they don't get too high. Gar, please make a running account for each of us along with the total -- and Mel will be in charge of collecting and safekeeping the money.

daniel 9:1-19

interesting to read daniel's prayer / petition to God. You can really hear the passion that he has for his people as he begs God to have mercy on the Jews.

light of the world

We are the only Bible
The careless world will read;
We are the sinner's gospel,
We are the scoffer's creed. —Flint

taken from today's daily devotional. an interesting way to put it... is our lives and actions an accurate reflection of what's written in God's word?

gifts

1 Cor 12:4-11
God determines the gifts that he gives us...and it is all of the same Spirit. This is repeated and emphasized when the gift(s) is mentioned.

Psalm 77

Another psalm I really enjoy...

"I cried out to God for help;
I cried out to God to hear me."

Such simple, but meaningful words...

exodus 15

The chapter basically displays the songs of Moses and Miriam, and also records the first time the Israelites complained about not having water.
Crazy how it only takes a few days after the crossing of the Red Sea to find something to gripe about. But I'm sure, knowing my critical nature, I woulda been the same way. How do I become more positive and encouraging as opposed to negative and complaining.

daniel 8

more trippy visions of the future -- perhaps daniel got a flagon of bad mead? The language of the vision is interesting in contrast to John's account in Revelation. In keeping with the rest of the book, the word choice and sentence structure seem ---simplistic--- and economical whereas John seems more abstract and verbose.

Psalm 69

This is one of my favorite psalms.

"Save me, O God,
for the waters have come up to my neck.
I sink in the miry depths,
where there is no foothold
I have come into the deep waters';
the floods engulf me.
I am worn out calling for help;
my throat is parched.
My eyes fail,
looking for my God."

David, even "a man's after God's own heart", sometimes need to cry out to God. He went through a lot of different things before he was king and while he was king, and the psalms he wrote to express his feelings still resonate with me today.

exodus 14

Its interesting to see how Moses has grown from the time God called him to free His people. This time when Pharaoh comes with his army to take back the Israelites instead of doubting God, or caving into the pressure from his people, he was confident in God's ability to save His people.

"Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today."

known God

Acts 17
Athens of Pauls day had various altars to many different idols, even an altar to the unkown god. Paul knew, and he went around to every synagogue to spread the good news about Jesus. we also know who He is, and there are still many people out there looking for the unkown God.

Jer. 1:13-19

ok, first thing that comes to mind after reading this passage - why in the world does God "summon" other cities to invade Jerusalem and then tells them that Jerusalem will not be overcomed because He has fortified them? It just almost feels like God is proving Himself to the people of Jerusalem. I guess God does have to show us His power in order for us to catch attention of His presence. To remind us that He is almighty, since we often forget.

John 11:1-44

Visiting Pastor Szeto gave a short "sermonette" about this passage, the death and resurrection of Lazarus. The main point of the message was very simple: God cares.

Thinking about the things I see happening to me, my friends, my church, and the world, sometimes I really have my doubts. It's hard to trust that God's doing something, even if I can't see it... just like Mary and Martha crying out to Jesus, "Why didn't you come to Bethany sooner? Why didn't you come in time to save our brother?"

It's not that Jesus didn't care about Lazarus, because in the passage, the Bible's shortest (and also one of the most profound verses) is written "Jesus wept." The Creator of the Universe, 100% God and 100% Man, in all in his power, still felt sadness at seeing a friend dead and the grief around him.

But God had a greater plan - Lazarus died so Jesus could demonstrate truly that he was God and able to perform something as miraculous as raising the dead. People probably didn't understand that until it happened... and if I have faith, I need to trust that God can work in a similar way again.

daniel 7

daniel's vision of the 4 beasts; the fourth is the most interesting as it represents a kingdom which has not yet arisen. It will rule the whole earth and then 10 kingdoms will come from this kingdom, and one king will subdue 3 other kingdoms. Keep an eye out.

Acts 16

Paul drives out a spirit from a slave girl by which she could see the future. when the girls owners find out that their hope for making money is gone , they falesly accuse paul and silas of disturbing the peace and they are imprisoned. in the end, they are released, but not before they get an apology before being escoreted out. thisreminds me of when a couple of the youth at our church were wrongly arrested and prosecuted for a crime they didn't commit. in the end, they were exhonerated of all charges, except in the end they didn't apologize or admit what they did was a mistake.

Exodus 13

There seems to be a lot of references to the idea of redemption or buying back one's life. Of course we can point to the example of Jesus and how we deserve death but receive salvation through Him. It also comes up in the story of the passover and how the firstborn of the Israelites was spared from death. In chapter 13, it talks about how because the firstborn was spared from death his/it's life was now supposed to be sacrificed to God. How is my life a living sacrifice to God taken into factor how Jesus paid the price of death that I deserved?

'amember your 1st wuv

Rev 2:2-7

Ok, we are reminded to remember our first love. But what does that actually mean? I dunno, because when I really think about it, I can't say my first love is God. Verse 4 says, "...You have forsaken your first love." Confusing I must say.

OR it may mean that for those who have been walking, they have tasted God and realized true love from God, yet as life bashes one, that love is often forgotten. Mmmm...

Judges 1

I started reading Judges to finish off the story of Joshua - the first chapter deals with the remaining Canaanites and Israel's war with them. It's to note that even after Joshua died, his friend Caleb is still alive, presumably as an elder / leader.

On an unrelated note, I hate allergies.

daniel 6

this chapter recounts the tale of Daniel and the Lion's Den. I find it interesting how through the reign of three different kings, Daniel's talents are esteemed, and he rises to prominence because of his diligenece and his faith in God.

exodus 12 continued

I can only imagine what the exodus of egypt looked like. There was about 2 million people in the group, not to mention all the livestock. All I can think about is how chaotic it must've been. 2 million people!

romans 15:1-7

look out for one another, bear with one another, build up your neighbor, glorify God together. Accept one another, God did with you...

specific instructions

Exodus 12
The Lord gave specific instructions on what to do to avoid the last plague and also told them that they would celebrate that day as well as specific instructions of how to celebrate. I wonder what it was like to be in that moment knowing God was about to do something amazing. I remember I used to feel like God was about to do something amazing here too, but now I'm not too sure.

daniel 5

King's Nebuchadnezzar's son rejects God and instead has chosen... poorly. The very night he drinks from the wrong cup [golden goblets from the temple in Jerusalem] a mysterious hand appears and writes MENE MENE TEKEL PARSIN. As we know the writing's on the wall and a bit later King Belshazzar bites it.

Joshua 24

The end of Joshua is interesting in that it recounts the beginning - the history of Israel since Abraham. Joshua wants the people to aware of God's involvement in the past as a way of reassuring them about the present and future.

It's good to remember God's faithfulness in the past.

no i in team

watching the recap of the sonics/magic game, it was very satyisfying to see how well they shut down orlando. the sonics are one of the best teams this year for a good reason, they play as a team. each man knows their role, and plays their part to help the team win. on the opposite end, it was readily apparent how uncoordinated orlando was, with a lack of leadership and coordination and a lot of guys only playing one on one and trying to do it all on their own(stevie franchise, cough cough). it reminds me that we are all part of one big body, and no one member is more important than the other. also, without the coordination and support of the body as a whole, things won't get done. the other thing is that leadership does not mean doing things alone by yourself, but by utilizing and coordinating the gifts of your team mates to effectively do God's work. you've got those that weren't just great by themselves, but also brought out the best in their team mates, like Jordan or Nash. and then you've got those that try to be the team by themselves, like Francis or Kobe. How much greater is the harvest when we work as one body, one mind, one team.

plague of the firstborn

exodus 11
Its interesting to know that the Egyptians and even Pharaoh's officials highly regarded Moses and the Israelites. I guess that's what happens when they get decimated by plagues. The only person who refused to believe it all was Pharaoh.

daniel 4:19-35

king nebuchadnezzar is humbled because of his pride --- made to look and act like a mindless cow. All he had to do in the end was look up towards heaven and the curse was lifted.

Acts 14

I do not think i have the faith or courage to go preaching the gospel like Paul did. just the rumor of people wanting to stone me would be enough to discourage me from continuing on, let alone actually getting stoned and going back into the city where you were stoned.

Joshua 23

This chapter is Joshua's farewell speech to the leaders of Israel... it's interesting to note that even as he was dying, his thoughts were of the people and his concern for them. He asks them to continue following God and obeying Him... while warning them of the consequences of ignoring him.

My favorite part: "One of you routs a thousand, because the LORD your God fights for you, just as he promised. So be very careful to love the LORD your God." (v.10-11)

It made me think of the game Dynasty Warriors... a man worth a thousand men. It seems like an impossible standard to achieve, but I guess God can really do that with people who are faithful to Him.

job 2:4-10

even among sores afflicted on him, Job still was able to put faith in God. Even got to use one of the coolest lines in the Bible, "You are talking like a foolish woman"

daniel 4:1-18

interesting to note the marked change in Nebuchadnezzar's attitude -- now he's singing praises to God

acts 13

Peter and Barnabas spread the word to various cities. and wherever they go, they are not accepted kindly by the authorites or people in positions of power. but even though they are persectued or run out of towns, they continue their work with praises and joy in the Lord. there are times when i find it difficult to be humble and serve when it feels like your service is undervalued and taken for granted. but in all these things i try to keep to heart that it is not for recognition or obligation that i do these things, but for the joy in serving the God.

that sucks!

1 chornicles 13:8-12

It sucks that Uzzah was struck down by God when it seemed like he was just trying to save the ark from falling. Seemed like his intentions were good, but then it still technically broke God's command to not touch the ark. Makes us remember to take God's commands seriously, but then sometimes it just doesn't seem fair when our intentions are good for the greater people, yet still breaks the rules and we get punished. Strange...I must ponder this more...

Joshua 22

This is a long chapter, but it basically covers an interesting event - an incident which almost leads to an outbreak of full civil war of 3 tribes against the 9 others. It's a bit complicated to explain, but basically it can be summed up as this: a misunderstanding over the different symbolism of building of an altar.

For one group of the tribes, the building of this altar signified rebellion, heresy, and blasphemy against God. For other side, the building of the altar was merely a gesture at making a monument toward faith in God and peace. It's almost crazy how different their opinions were. Luckily, a diplomatic meeting resolved the dispute and no war broke out.

Reading the passage, I was reminded of the divisions today that separate people in churches, even if both sides are faithful Christians, disputes can break out because people just don't see eye to eye... points of views always seem to differ because of our imperfect nature.

pharaoh, pharaoh

Poor Pharaoh. Reading Exodus 10 you can tell he really didnt want to let the Hebrews go, but slowly gave in to Moses' demands. He was supposed to be viewed as a god by his people but basically got showed up by the real God.
I'm reminded of that one Voltron skit. Pharaoh's officials inform him, "dude, you just got served!"

Joshua 21

In this final chapter of land distribution, the Levitites are allocated land at certain cities from each of the 11 other tribes, because they were priests and called to basically being so "full time". While the rest of the nation of Israel would become farmers, soldiers, merchants, government officials, etc., God considered it important that entire set of his people be devoted to being priests.

This passage made me reflect on this: how can I tangibly help those who have dedicated themselves to ministry full time?

daniel 3

ok this Nebuchadnezzar is one messed up dude. We saw before that he had no hesitation about killing off all the wise men in the land --- because they couldn't interpret a dream that he hadn't told them about. Now he threatens to toast any who don't bow down before his golden idol. when shad- mesh - and abed refuse to bow dow, he grows even MORE furious, ordering the furnace to burn 7 times hotter than normal. Even the guards who chuck the 3 in are themselves overcome by the flames. Finally, God saves the 3 from the fire and they emerge unscathed. You'd think that Nebuchadnezzar would learn BUT this is his response [paraphrased slightly] 'let any who speak out against the God of S.M. and A. be cut into pieces and his house burnt to rubble' grrrrrrrrrrrrrreat.

his power

When God chooses to show His power, look out! Perhaps Pharaoh might've let the Israelites go after a plague or two and that woulda probably have been a sufficient story to tell the next generations about. But God hardened Pharaoh's heart again and again so that God could show just how powerful He was.

amazing faith

Matt 9

Jesus heals a paralytic, gets Matthew the tax collector to drop everything and follow Him, brings a dead girl back to life, heals a sick bleeding woman, heals the blind and mute, and exorcises a demon possessed man. Every thing that happened require faith beyond faith from the person, or the third party. I would think that if I saw these things happening, that I was going crazy. Seems like in this day in age, we don't expect things like this to happen, but when it does, people either freak out (like the Pharisees), or they start thinking they should start speaking in tongues.

Acts 12

Herod has James put to death, and inprisons Peter who is to be put on trial. but for the earnest prayers of the church, Peter is rescued by an angel of the Lord. God listens and answers our prayers, though the answer to our prayer may not be what what we were expecting.

Joshua 20

I remember reading this chapter a long time ago in a Sunday sermon about God's law. In this chapter, God basically instructs Joshua to set up a system to deal with accidents / accidental killings, i.e. manslaughter.

What's interesting is that the concept of "avenger of blood", or basically, death penalty, old school style. If a person was murdered, it was the right and the duty of the closest relative to kill the murder. A more descriptive Bible encyclopedia entry is here.

I guess it shows God's wisdom that even in those old days, He wanted to make provisions in the law for the Israelites between murder and manslaughter...

distinction

"23 I will make a distinction between my people and your people."

How am I different as a child of God? Can a normal person tell that I am a Christian?

maid knew

eph. 4:17-24

put aside your old self...be made new in the attitude of your minds.

it's not just a spiritual cover up, but a complete makeover.

daniel 2

what strikes me about this story -- is just that: in my mind it's just a "story", like Santa Claus or Rudolf. As a kid i always heard the stories of "Daniel and the Lion's Den" or "The Three Amigos Burn in a Furnace". But this is very real --- and in chapter 2 the king is about to kill all the wise men in his land because they cannot interpret his dream without even knowing what the dream is.

stubborness

Pharaoh's stubborness caused great harm to his people. Makes me think of how import a leader is because they arent just responsible for themselves but for those he is leading.

daniel 1

having finished relvelation i decided to get another taste for prophecy via Daniel.

I always thought the part where Daniel eats veggies instead of meat was messed up.. I mean if i was Shadrach, Meshach or Abednego i'd be pissed -- 'where the hell is my defiled steak?!'

discipline!

Hebrews 12:5-11

discipline is good...as in, don't spare the rod.

Hebrews 12:11
11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

Joshua 18-19

In these two chapters, the final 7 tribes get their allotment of land. The method by which they did it - surveying the portions and then casting lots - struck as me as interesting. My mental picture is Joshua rolling craps with all the Israelite elders, but apparently nobody knows the exact details of "casting lots" except there are many times in the Old Testament where it is used to interpret God's will in a difficult situation.

I found an interesting page about Joshua 18 and casting lots right here.

Anyways, the passage made me think a lot about how I often wish that there were easier ways for me to interpret God's will in my life for the decisions I have to make. While I wish I had a pair of "holy dice" to roll for God's will, I guess I'm learning that part of faith is trusting that God will speak to me clearly through prayer, Scripture, the advice of Godly people, and circumstances.

neither hot nor cold

meaningless, meaningless, everything under the sun is meaningless. feeling dry.

issues of faith

matt 8

first you have a man with leprosy, the a centurion comes by asks for Jesus to heal his servant, more people healed phsyically. But when it comes to Jesus having power over nature and the spiritually realm, faith is shaken in those who witness. i think this still happends to this day because it feels so weird and completely out of our control. Less faith is involved when we know we have control. Let's have less faith in our own self and more in Christ.

Joshua 16-17

The allotment of land continues... it's like real estate, Bible style. It's interesting to note that the "tribe of Joseph" was actually recognized as two groups of people because they were so numerous - Manasseh (Joseph's firstborn) and Ephraim.

In the passage, the Manasseh and Ephraim are given land, but land that is too small for the number of people they need. They ask Joshua for more, but instead, he instructs them that will have to go out themselves and conquer additional land for themselves. The people of Manasseh and Ephraim are afraid however, because the inhabitants of the additional land they need are strong and have better rides - chariots of iron.

This little fact made me reflect on this: God may bless us initially with a little bit, but if we are fufill His blessings to their maximum, we must trust Him fully and we must often overcome difficult circumstances on that trust alone... even if it means tackling something we believe is impossible for us to handle.

"come with me if you want to live"

How do you continue to try and accomplish something when the people you need support in (in Moses' case his own people) reject you and what you're trying to do (i.e. freeing the Israelites)? That must've been real hard and I know it would've been hard for me too cuz I'm such a person who relies on positive reinforcement from other people.

not so random thoughts

by nature, i tend to keep to myself. there are many times when i prefer to stay in my hole and avoid human contact. but time and again i am reminded that God created us to be social creatures. Jesus too during his brief years of ministry, did not go about teaching alone by himself. with him were his closest friends, and also disciples. though we all come from different places and backgrounds, what brings us together is one faith.

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another–and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Hebrews 10:23-25

Acts 9

it is amazing to see the dramatic change in saul after his encounter with the Lord. From zealously persecuting christians to boldly proclaiming Jesus is the Christ. his passion for God was so great, he angered the the local jewich leaders around him to the point they conspired to kill him.

Joshua 15

This chapter continues with the allotment of territory, but specifically the tribe of Judah. Most the passage is pretty mundane - place names, geographical descriptions... but there were a couple interesting highlights.

One highlight is reference to "sons of Anak", whom Caleb had to drive out of Hebron. The whole issue of "sons of Anak" is an interesting controversy of itself. Golaith is the most famous member of this group, supposedly a race of evil, giant men whom some people believe to be the descendants of demons / human women. If you're ever bored, Google "sons of Anak" or "Nephilim" to read some interesting stuff.

Another interesting thing is mention of a group of people, the Jebusites, who the Israelites could not drive out of the city of Jerusalem, because many generations ago, Abraham had made a convenant with them and the Israelites were bound by oath to keep it... until later, when the Jebusites made war against David. An interesting article about the Jebusites can be read here.

the tree and its fruit

Matt. 7:15-23

Since Jesus told us to watch out for false prophets, how do we know who is who? By the fruit that they bear. Good trees bear good fruit, bad trees bear bad fruit. A good tree can't bear bad fruit and vice versa. And if there is no good fruit, that tree will be cut down and thrown into the fire.

So, bear good fruit or die!

let my people go

Reading the story of Moses by chapter I almost feel the urge to just read on to the next chapter and finish the story. I want to get to that happy ending sooner. Which is kinda what Moses was like cuz Pharoah refused to let the Israelites go in the beginning. Instead Pharoah worked the Israelites harder, and that led to Moses questioning God at the end of the chapter.
Its hard though.

Matt. 6

Jesus talks about many things that the Father rewards when done in secret, such as, giving to the needy, prayer and fasting. Also, store up your treasures in heaven and not on earth. "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

inadequacy

Reading in exodus 4 about how Moses is totally trying to get out of the responsibility of leading the Israelites out of Egypt. I of course relate to the feelings of inadequacy of oneself so much that you don't even believe that God is great enough to overcome that. I seem to consentrate so much on my shortcomings I forget about God and His absolute power. But then again its one thing to say you believe but to actually have action is a totally different level.

mustard seeds

talking with malcom the other day, we started discussing the third service and the possibility of moving it to the portable during second hour. i raised some of my concerns of viability and logistics of having it running concurrently with the chinese service. what struck me afterwards was that my issues were on whether we could do it. in all of this i did not think of God once, or whether if it was in His power to make this change happen. i may not have the strength, but God does. it is not by our own strength, but by our Faith in God and His immeasurable grace and power that great works are done.

Joshua 14

In this passage, Caleb is blessed by Joshua for his faithfulness and rewarded with the land of Hebron - the two of them being the only two spies who believed in God's promise that Israel would have a homeland of its own. Joshua mentions in the passage that since the time he became leader of the Israelites, 45 years have passed and he's now 85 years old... but he still fills as strong as the day Moses sent him out.

I couldn't help but admire Joshua and Caleb - two men who in faith, stood against a majority of naysayers and trusted in God to deliver on his promise. They endured for over 40 years in the desert, and then a grueling campaign of war... at ages of over 80 years old! Can you even imagine an 80 year-old man as a soldier in those times? But God and their faith gave them the strength to endure and lead.

I hope that I and all of us in Wudan can be like them...

Rev 22

Interesting end to the Bible. Although this chapter terminates the book of Revelation it seems very open ended. Jesus testifies that "Yes, I am coming soon" and John responds -Amen. Come, Lord Jesus-. very simple and succinct.

Psalm 46:10

"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."

amen

plunder

When I think about how the Israelites were freed from their slavery its a very unusual of going at about it. If I were to go about freeing my people from bondage I would try and plan a revolt and fight my way out. Basically gain independence through revolutionary war, something like braveheart.
But God does it a totally different way. And not only does He free His people with no causilties, the Egyptians actually give them a whole bunch of stuff when they leave (silver, gold, clothing).
God's ways are better than man's ways...

plunder

When I think about how the Israelites were freed from their slavery its a very unusual of going at about it. If I were to go about freeing my people from bondage I would try and plan a revolt and fight my way out. Basically gain independence through revolutionary war, something like braveheart.
But God does it a totally different way. And not only does He free His people with no causilties, the Egyptians actually give them a whole bunch of stuff when they leave (silver, gold, clothing).
God's ways are better than man's ways...

Joshua 13

This passage concerns the division of the land among the different tribes of Israel. I'm wishing I had an illustrated Bible with maps or something, because it's hard to visualize the exact regions described without being familar with the geography mentioned.

A thought that occurred to me was just as the land given to Israel was both a blessing and a responsibility, the rewards and things we receive from God are the same as well. Recently, I've been trying to self-evaluate and check to see if I'm really making the best use of my time, talents, and resources that God has granted me - hence laying off the WoW a lot more until I square away stuff for grad school, side projects, and work.

Another thing that I noticed in the passage was that the tribe of Levi received NO land - which sort of seems messed up, except that God had a different plan for them and had set aside a different responsibilities for them (Levites as the special priests). Reading this reminded me of something else that's important - what God asks of one person can be different than what He asks of another...

Matt. 5:14-16

We are salt of the earth... so then how can we lose saltiness? Bottom line is that if salt isn't salty, then it isn't salt anymore. Therefore useless.

Then we are also the light of the world which should lead others into worshipping the Father in heaven. hmm.

So if your light isn't shining...then you might be losing your saltiness.

God's Holy Spaceship

Rev 21: 9-27

I find it interesting how I interpret the Bible in terms of the metaphors available to me today. I envision God's Borg cube descending from heaven a la Close Encounters of the Third Kind -- all the while beautifully decorated with gems from World of Warcraft --- moss agate, citrine, iridescent pearl, and let us not forget, lesser moonstone (although I suppose God would bling his crib with GREATER moonstone).*

Something that hits me too is that I don't think this passage is itself figurative or metaphorical -- although it is filled with much symbolism. Crazy to think that one day this huge city is gonna land on mother earth.

*omitted that it was crafted by artisan blacksmiths from many, many gold bars

Acts 6

The Apostles did not turn away from serving where called to. But they also were wise in not trying to take on every task themselves and become overburdened. They called on other beleivers to help in their work. another important thing is that they chose others to help in the task with the overlooked widows so that they could focus on the ministry of the word.

guns on my mind

well reading exodus 2 its interesting how the movie The Ten Commandments totally plays out in my mind while reading it, even though the passage barely mentions all the subplot and other stuff that goes on in the movie. I then wonder if making big motion pictures about biblical stories is a great thing. I guess it depends on how accurate the depiction of the passage is cuz Charlton Heston as Moses totally stands out.

Joshua 12

This passage lists all kings and cities that Israel defeated to make its way into the Promised Land. It's not the most interesting passage (the language is a bit repetitive), but the following important thought did occur to me while I was reading it:

It's important to remember the victories and blessings that God has given us.

Rev 21:1-8

I'll stress some of the takeaways:
-am i readying myself along with the church to be a "bride of Christ"?
-do I draw close to God?
-is my perspective that pain and sorrow will one day pass?
-do i recognize God's power to remake everything as new?
-do I seek God to refuel my spirit?
-do I see myself as His son?
-am I a coward?

it's interesting that the cowardly (listed first no less!) is lumped in with the unbelieving, vile, murderers, sexually immoral, magicians, idolators, and liars. So cowardice is a sin then. Wow - so I guess the lesson is to live a courageous life.

blah blah blah

continuing from Genesis on to Exodus...
dont have much to say... this is why i dont have a blog...
On another note, I'm worried that the Seahawks are gonna be worse next year. Though they're gonna have most of their offensive core back, their defensive guys are signing elsewhere. And its not like our defense was any good to begin with. Draft priority? Linebacker first then maybe pass rushing defensive end.

Joshua 11:1-23

The Lord said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid of them, because by this time tomorrow I will hand all of them over to Israel, slain. You are to hamstring their horses and burn their chariots."

This passage is pretty long and sort of repetitive to read... it talks about the war against the northern kingdoms and their kings in the Promised Land. The above verse stuck out in my brain as odd, until the idea came to me suddenly: LORD didn't want any of Israel's enemies to escape.

In my own life, it seems that often some of the spiritual issues I'm grappling with get away rather than get defeated. Instead of them being completely dealt with, sometimes they just slip away... only to come back again and bite me in my backside. =/

Acts 5:1-10

God knows our every thought and desire, yet why do we still try to hold things back from Him? trying to bluff God is not a good idea, especially for ananias and sapphira.

John 15:1-8

I wanted to re-read what Pastor Lam talked about in service today, so I read this passage. It's very familar to me, but I thought it was interesting how in the sermon, Pastor Lam emphasized that there's difference between the "discipline" and "pruning" that God does to those that follow Him.

So am I being pruned or disciplined... I'm not quite sure.

bluntness

One thing I notice about myself is my tendency to be unnecessarily blunt. If I can I usually just dont say anything but when I have to say something its really hard to be tactful. Why cant everyone just live up to all my expectations?

more than qualified

Acts 4:13

When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.

You're don't need to have a masters of divinity or won the nobel peace prize to make a sginifigant impact. Just a willing heart and desire to follow Him. on a side note, cbc's youth retreat is coming up in april, and i'm sure there's still a need for helpers to fill some positions. no need to send in your resume to apply.

James 1:19-20

James 1:19-20

My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, ²⁰for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.

ARGH, man i can't believe the people at Costco -- and not the employees, but the people that shop there. Today I witnessed some of the rudest behavior ever and it was totally giving me a headache. The first incident of note this one woman was tryign to get by with her shopping cart in an aisle. She easily could have moved to the side to avoid this other woman talking on her cell but no -- she yells out: hey you with the phone move it! Both were middle aged woman. Even tho it didn't happen to me, i was getting pissed. I so wanted to tell that first woman off, but the woman on the phone seemed to take offense for a second and then let it go. Well if she could let it slide, I guess I could too. The second incident happened to me when I was nearing the exit with my mom. A couple of items were slipping from our cart so i paused for <5 seconds to reaarrange them. The guy behind me is like: U CANT STOP IN THE MIDDLE! And his tone isn't one of gentle reminder or a polite excuse me. It's like these precious seconds are worth everything in the world to him. I was thinking argh -- you're tailgating me at COSTCO? Did u not see me rearrange the falling items? I was real real close to telling him off and then cussing him out. There other thing that pisses me off is this little mental test that I make. Ok say I'm 6'3" and black. Are you gonna take that kind of tone with me? Nope, but u feel it's alright to say whatever u want because i'm 5'9" and asian. At the time I was like -- hmm mebbe asians need to create a history of violence so people don't feel so free to speak their minds -- a la Genghis Khan or some such.

So onto the verse. I can tell you I was burning all the way to the car and all the way home. I was like God you really want me to love these people? These are the people you want saved? I suppose in retrospect that it's a good thing I didn't take the $1.50 polish and stick it where his sun don't shine, but it's not really like I was making a godly decision not to. It was more like -- man you really worth the effort? So: slow to anger is what God wants. Hmm well it doesn't say don't be angry at all. Interesting. God knows that we're, well, human. Humans get angry. But yeah I think that I got mad pretty fast and it could have turned ugly had I decided to escalate the situation.

Any comments? How could my response been more like God would want me to be?

another late night

I just thank God for all the blessings and friends in my life. I hope that like Job, I may be able praise God no matter what the situation is from the bottom of my heart.

blurb

Must be kinda weird to hear when in Genesis 49 Jacob basically tells his sons their future, whether good or bad. Some people got it good like Judah and Joseph but others not so good (reuben, simeon, levi). Imagine your father, after getting a message from God, telling you your life will be a struggle then telling your brother right after they and their children will have great success.

Joshua 10:29-43

The passage covers the conquest of the southern cities. God again directed the Israelite army to defeat each city, one at a time. As I was reading through it, I was thinking of how the same principle happens in my spiritual walk too... when there's a lot of different problems, sometimes God wants us take care of each one, one at a time...

zombie state

Believe it or not this is the first chance I'm getting to post tonight... er i guess its morning now. Got done breaking down and starting leaving the set at around 4:15am. Ugh.
But yea reading about how Jacob when blessing Joseph's sons gave the greater blessing to the younger son instead of the older. Interesting how it was him who was the younger son and got the 'greater' blessing as well.
now on to sleep...

rev 11:15-19

at last i go to bed at a semi-reasonable hour! In this passage --- the time has come --- and we're not talking about cabbages and kings here. Well actually one king, God, sovereign over all. The dead are judged: the servants and saints are rewarded, and those who destroy the earth, well they themselves are destroyed. Hopefully we all are saints. Also gets one thinking: what is the nature of our reward in heaven? a crown? ok what is a crown then? mebbe i'm getting caught up in earthly terms. comments welcome

Joshua 10:16-28

More tales of battle. Some words that stood out to me:

Joshua said to them, "Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Be strong and courageous. This is what the LORD will do to all the enemies you are going to fight."

...and then Joshua executed the 5 kings and hung them from 5 trees.

the fellowship of the believers

Acts 2:42-47
a good look at true christian fellowship. I have it, but honestly... i can't say i've really had it at/in church. I say this because even now, there are still many many faces that i do not know at my church: the only time i see/saw these people is on sunday morning or at the friday night fellowhip group(when i attended back in college). Apart from that, there is no other contact or interaction with these fellow christians any other time in the week in or outside of church. I'm not invested or involved in any of these nameless faces(or faceless names)outside these specific times. We don't break bread together, we don't pray for each other... we don't even know each other enough to know what the other needs prayer for. We just come to church, listen to the message, and go back to our own private lives. Thats not fellowship, that's just meeting together at an appointed time and place... a program. like going to the dentist or to a class or AA.

So the real question is, are the people at church not making enough of an effort? Or is it I, who is not making enough of an effort at church...

rev 7-8

this mainly deals with the tribulation. scary stuff: with the seventh seal comes the seven angels with seven trumpets. The imagery almost seems like the earth is hit by a series of comets/meteorites . Very plausible - since a comet impact would have the world wide catastrophic damage potential that John writes.

Genesis

So Joseph shows what a great businessman he was by using this 'insider information' of prosperous years followed by severe famine to the benefit of Pharoah by basically enslaving everyone in Egypt to serving Pharoah after having them sell off their livestock and lands to him because they ran out of money to pay for food.

musings

Acts 1
a portion of the passage caught my eye. it is where they cast lots between Matthias and Barsabbas to fill the place that Judas left behind. Though he betrayed Jesus, Judas was one of the 12 disciples, who were closest to and served in the ministry of Jesus. of course, Jesus knew Judas would be betray Him. was Judas destined to betray Jesus, or did he choose to? either way, i dunno what to think at this time.

Joshua 10:10-15

The book of Joshua definitely doesn't lag in the action department. This whole section should be called, "God Smacksdown the Amorites" - causing confusion, crushingly large hailstones falling from the sky, and even the sun standing still for a day.

Sometimes, I often feel like I'm fighting my battles by myself... it's sobering to realize that real victories, the victories over spiritual battles, have to start first with having God take command and taking an active role in things.

a great nation

Interesting how God chose to grow the Israelites into a great nation in Egypt even though they would become slaves there for 400 years. But I guess going through hardships sometimes is the only way to grow.

1 John 3:16-18

I'm taking a break from reading Joshua today because I'm focusing on this particular passage for my BASIC lesson on Saturday. It's one of my favorite passages in the Bible because it reminds me that Godly love is:

1) Sacrificial
2) Compassionate
3) Active

"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.

If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?

Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."

Coincidentally, it was the verse from my year on AACF CORE, but I'm always moved by both the message and the artistry of the verse.

in search of a burning bush

reflecting on John 21:15-19 again. I feel like Moses when God told him to go and free His people. except sans the burning bush.

Prayer Request

Hey guys, I was asked to go on a mission to Brazil this summer. I'm not sure what to say to that given how I haven't gone to church in about 7 weeks. My dad thinks that I should get a job and my mom is open to letting me decide what I want to do.

Anyway, I have a game testing interview on Friday and if I am accepted, then I would not be able to go on the mission. But then if I'm not accepted, then I have no job.

Anyway, I'm not sure what God wants me to do. I would like to go on the mission. But still, I'm not sure which is the right path. God might not want me to go on this mission.

Anyway, please pray for direction in regards to this mission. Thanks guys

Revelation chap 5-6

ok , you're gonna have to read this passage for yourself if you want the full effect of the imagery. There's thrones, and elders, four living creatures, burning lamps, a book with seven seals, He who sits on the throne, and a lamb. A couple things strike me about this passage -- 1) John weeps when no one is found worthy to open the book. Why does he weep? It seems like a strong response. Perhaps it's because he senses that somehow the opening of the book holds the key to the purpose or goal of the heavens and earth and everything that has happened in between the two. And the closed state of the book is sort of like promise unfulfilled or yet to be fulfilled. (We find out later that Jesus is the one who is worthy because he was slain and purchased us all with his blood). Although I'm not Jewish, I can imagine that perhaps this is the way they feel - where is the savior? why hasn't he come? can no one save us? A mixture of despair and sadness.

The second point: 2) the effect of Jesus' sacrifice is profound. I've never given a ton of thought to this, but Jesus death and ressurrection had profound effects throughout all that exists, not just our mortal earth. It's quite fascinating that heaven itself was shaken by His act of dying on the cross.

Journeyman

Life is a journey. A simple truth but a struggle to remember.
It's interesting to see how the journey plays out in the old testement and in the israelites. Joseph's journey took him to slavery and prison but somehow God used all that for His glory. The Israelites journeyed from bondage in Egypt and eventually with Joshua into the Promise land.

Joshua 9

So the men of Israel took some of their provisions, and did not ask for the counsel of the LORD. Joshua made peace with them and made a covenant with them, to let them live; and the leaders of the congregation swore an oath to them.

This story is interesting in that Joshua and the Israel were tricked because they failed to consult with God, and as a consequence, they were forced to uphold a promise they might have otherwise not wanted to keep. They relied on their imperfect, human judgement and made a big mistake.

Thinking about my own life, I often find it difficult to consult with God about everything, because I often make the assumption that there are some things I can decide for myself. Or there are cases where I want to consult God, but I'm in such a hurry to make a decision that I don't really consider that sometimes, God's answer is delayed for a reason - He wants me to wait.

"Always Consult With God" seems like such a simple principle, but yeah... it's still hard to apply.

Carnival

Reading up on Lent, I find it interesting how man can institutionalize and commercialize holidays/events to the point where we lose site of the origin and meaning. Christmas, Easter, Fat Tuesday... if I weren't a believer, I would have no idea these had any connections with Christianity at all. What do christmas presents, the easter bunny or mardi gras have anything to do with Jesus Christ? How did fasting and giving up meat turn into a massive party and the giving away of beads?

Revelation 2-3

At my girlfriend's fellowship, we're going through Ann Graham Lotz' Vision of His Glory Bible study based on Revelation. At first, I was surprised because Revelation is a pretty tricky book to understand as it's chock full of metaphors -- and there are seemingly many ways to interpret them. Nonetheless, it's been a good study hearing what the spirit has been impressing on other people's hearts and minds.

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hopefully this will be somewhat coherent for 6am (at night! :)

In these 2 chapters 2-3 there are a few calls for repentance: the church at Ephesus, Pergamum, and of the false prophetess Jezebel. It mentions that God had given Jezebel time to repent, but that she was unwilling. Sometimes that's me I feel --- I know what God wants, but i'm too weak too proud too dumb to repent. It's sobering to realize that she had time to repent, but did not take advantage of it. I think I take my salvation for granted and act as if I have all the time in the world to repent -- but that's not true. God's consequences and God's wrath happen in real time, people. I need to change now.

being accountable

when I think of how much time I spend watching tv, surfing the web, or playing video games, but can't find the time to pray, study the word, or finish a bible study lesson on time... it makes me wonder. But I guess not enough to change, since I'm still doing the same thing. 10-15 minutes every morning and every evening... it's not too much to ask. I pray that I can be disciplined and keep to it. and I hope it is out of a sincere desire to change, and not out of the fear of punishment.

maturity

Well my first post on a blog of any kind. Guess my leeching days are over. But yea in an effort to keep the small group I'm in accountable we're supposed to post our thoughts on whatever we're reading from the Bible here in this blog.
I'm reading in Genesis about Joseph right now and I found it interesting to see the contrast of Joseph's character from a young age (i.e. bragging about his dreams to his brother and how they were going to be bowing down to him) and over a decade later when his brothers actually came bowing down to him and him at a place in his life at a strong level of maturity. This got me thinking about my own level of maturity and it seems I still have a lot of growing up to do. When will I take that next step?

Joshua 7,8

Call me boring, but I've been trying to read along / follow Joshua since it's been read in service. What stuck out to me the most about these two chapters was that even after terrible defeat, God was able to use that and turn around into a victory - but only after what was wrong was corrected and the people's relationship with God was restored.