Saturday, May 15, 2010

Imaginary Jesus:

I am not one who really likes to read Christian fiction. Author Matt Mikalatos captured my attention within the first two chapters and never let go. It is a wonderful book. You might say it is a little like the Christian in wonderland story. Then there are times when you can deeply recall similar experiences which makes you think is this fiction or not?

Like many of us and scholars too, we are all looking for the real Jesus. In doing so we seem to continue to place Jesus in a box. When it is us who are in the box looking out. Matt gives a glimpse of his world and his adventure in looking for the real Jesus.

One of my favorite moments is with his dealings with Magic 8 Ball Jesus. How many times have we prayed and like a magic 8 ball turned around and shook it again praying the same prayer and expecting a different and just as vague answer.

As you read through you might just identify of few of your own imaginary Jesus'. There are twists and quirks which Matt must overcome. You are right there next to him through it all. It is a non-stop adventure in the present and the past.

At first I found myself saying what in the world is going on here? It was not what I was expecting and glad of it. I was never bored when reading. In fact I looked forward to each new chapter. Say hello to Daisy for me.

Sunday, May 2, 2010

At What Price?

This morning I opened the church for the 170th Sunday in a row. Though the wind was howling outside the light through the stained glass windows lights up the sanctuary with an array of colors. Each Sunday morning it is as quiet as the fog over a lake as the sun begins to rise. This is the time when I pray and asked God to speak to my heart. I asked God at what cost have you brought me here. He answered, “What cost indeed? Your wife and children are saved. Forever shall they be with me.” 

If I must live out a life of complete servitude alone in the desert the cost is rewarding enough.

…..were in an office of great trust, for they were responsible for the rooms and treasuries at the house of God. They would spend the night around the house of God, since it was their duty to guard it. It was also their job to open the gates every morning. 1 Chron 9:26-27 (NLT) 

Total Pageviews