Yes, it's been awhile since I've seen this screen on "MillerTime" as I watch my fingers dance across the keyboard.
Honestly, I've been enjoying much of life lately. I've been dancing w/ LIFE!
So, I've been bad at blogging, bad at emailing (well, that's debatable since I still email more than the average dude), bad w/ skyping, and all that facebook stuff, etc. It's weird b/c when you think about life in the current 21st C. of the Americanized world, blogging, emailing, tweeting, fb'ing, etc. IS life. And, since we are "so busy" w/ life (funny how we brag about being busy, as if that's a good thing too), this seems to be not only our best outlet, but also our way of "effectively" communicating w/ the outside world.
I don't know if I like that or not, but it just seems to be the way life is (even among the American med students and spouses in Dominica.).
I often ask the Q, "Just b/c that's the way LIFE IS, does that make it okay?" I mean, was it okay that at women weren't allowed to vote and that black slaves existed in the US not that long ago? Is it okay that men in Dominica treat women like dirt b/c that's "just the way it is."? That statement doesn't really bode well btw...
Maybe this blog should be titled something along the lines of, "I choose to blog when G-d chooses to blog!) but then that might sound a bit self righteous and holier than thou... Yet, that's probably what I want to call it at this point in my rambling before I just decide to stick w/ the current words out of the purist sense of just being lame.
Okay, I must get back w/ my NOT-so lame life... Yes, all of this not blogging was originally about my inability to justify time spent in front of a screen talking about my life, knowing that only 5 people (including my parents) actually read this thing, while life was passing me by outside these 4 walls. In essence, to sum up the words above: TYPING IN FRONT OF SCREEN = MISSING OUT ON LIFE AWAY FROM THE SCREEN!
But lately, to flip sides on this two sided coin, I've been back to wondering if we need to spend more time blogging b/c if we forget our words and our memories and our wonderful stories, then what do we have at the end of the day/season/year... life? Someone begins to ask you about your 20's or 30's and you go... "Uh... I don't remember that much." OR you can say, "go to http://millertimejedidiah.blogspot.com and there you will find what I was doing.
Thus, I will continue blogging. But I must warn you all, I'm having a bit too much fun w/ life to blog.
I must sound like the apostle Paul... "Do we abolish the blog? NO, rather we uphold it!"
You must tell your life stories, people. You must allow others into your world b/c this life you live is meant for greatness and wonder and beauty. This life is a gift, and it's quite the adventure.
C'mon... I'm living in a 3rd world country and I'm loving it! That's sounds insane. We lost our "life" in order to really FIND IT!
This season has been fun. It's a new season for several reasons.
1.) We no longer live in our big house w/ Robb and Stef (sad) b/c they are finished w/ school in Dominica and are now about to begin rotations in the states. But we are living just the 2 of us
2.) Lauren is in her final semester of medical school, even though we'll probably stay here until April 9 for 5th semester (Yes, I know it's confusing...)
3.) I'm cooking! Yes. ME... R-Y-A-N
4.) We've moved locations, day and time of Lighthouse, the church we planted within the Ross medical community.
5.) I am transitioning my leadership within In.Light.In. to 2 wonderful leaders, Nina and Anna, in the semester ahead...
6.) I've been pursuing WISDOM!
I find it remarkable that for 11 years of doing ministry, I've never really pursued wisdom. Sure, I've prayed for it. I've preached on it. I've played around with it in my head an in many good disccusion groups. But I've never really PURSUED HER!
About 6-7 weeks ago, I was hanging fliers for In.Light.In. around campus, asking the LORD for his prayers. I was hoping I would get more passion, joy and pray for more leaders and ask for things such as raising spiritual awareness in the community. But the WORD I clearly received was, "Pray for wisdom."
So, that's what I've been doing.
The past 30 days, I've been reading Proverbs daily w/ my good friend, Wes.
I've helped start another mens group that is reading Proverbs and is about to start discussing THE SCREWTAPE LETTERS.
I've talked to Lauren, other friends and our In.Light.In. leaders about it.
I've committed to memorizing Ephesians 6:10-20 w/ some guys too. This is all about the armor of G-d. I'm under the realization that we are daily being attacked in very weighty matters. The more I dwell upon the armor of G-d, the more I believe that we are made for battle, but that the battle CAN and WILL be ours if we allow the LORD to fight for us.
What I've come to understand is that some people are better at putting on the belt of truth, while others have a more difficult time, but are more prone to placing the helmet of salvation upon their heads. These examples continue w/ the full armor...
As I was sitting upon the "throne" one morning after a prior conversation w/ my new friends Brian and Anna, it hit me! If we are in a spiritual battle against the enemy, we MUST depend upon the body of Christ, if she truly is HIS body. I need to hang out w/ people who have an easier time putting on the breastplate of righteousness, just as they need to hang around me if they want the feet of readiness.
This is how we gain wisdom in our daily battles. We must surround ourselves w/ people who can sharpen us, and seeing this more clearly, this truth has given me more passion and hope for the church that stays ONE and only moves as it hears the LORD's battle cry! The battle is ours, but we must stand firm as a unit.
This is why I've been enjoying my life much more these days. While last season was about G-d giving me the GIFT of receiving this beautiful place of Dominica as a gift, this season is about using that gift of life and fighting in a battle that is worth fighting for... the church, relationships, family, community... those who hear G-d's word and put it into practice!!!
I love the church. I believe in the church b/c I believe we were meant for greatness in the name of Jesus. Asking for wisdom has already given me a much clearer perspective on the smaller thing in life, and has also allowed me to find greater joy in what was seemingly, small and insignificant.
Every day is a battle, but every day is also a gift. We choose LIFE or we choose DEATH. We choose BLESSINGS or we choose CURSES.
Praying and doing life w/ Wes, engaging in more meaningful relationships w/ so many others, and taking each day both playfully and seriously, I've been blessed in brand new ways. G-d continues to enlarge my territory, and he continues to show me his favor.
Lately, Lauren and I have been moved to adopt a child. We don't know exactly where this will lead us, but we know that in seeking wisdom, the LORD has shown that his heart is in us and our heart for him is about binding up orphans.
Have you heard recently how G-d is described in the Psalms, "A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows is G-d in his holy dwelling place."
What is G-d all about when He dwells in the holy of holies?
A: ORPHANS!
That's where I've been moved, and that's where the battle is... G-d yearns to father and he uses regular people like Lauren and me to do these kinds of bold and courageous acts.
I don't know where this story will end (as if the dance will ever end), but I'm pretty stoked to see where it is going... pray for us as we pray for G-d's will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.
shalom
Ryan
p.s. To be continued when I feel the Big Guy nudge me to share more of life that is quite the DANCE on this blessed"rock."
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
updated pics from the past few weeks over the semester break
It's ALL about the FOOD in St. Lucia. (Ceviche above) The Dominicans wouldn't know what to do w/ this dish. Yeah, Lauren and I went back to the neighboring island over the break again for some good food and some good times before returing to work WELCOME WEEK for the incoming class at Ross U. Our good friend, Brian Tong, gave us a nice gift for Lauren and I (8th anniversary) so that we could eat this lovely meal...
Brian (another med studenet, but not Brian Tong) and Anna, his wife, hung out w/ us a bit over the break. They also enjoyed the good brew at the Plantation House.
Anna just couldn't say NO to this crazy local!
Hanging out at the Friday Night Fish Fry w/ the locals...
Eatin' at the Antonion, thinking of San Antonio. However, the food was not good here. :(
My lovely Lauren!
We went sailing in St. Lucia... lots of fun!
The French & Brits always liked to shoot these bad boys.
Our hotel was back there somewhere...
Josh (med student) and spouse, Allison, were also staying at our hotel!
Ah... nice dark microbrew from the Plantation!
Lauren and I on a date night at Fire Hut in St. Lucia
Lobster rocks!
The rest of the pics are Dominican pics... Stef's last night at the house!
Lauren and Stef (above) and Lauren and I (below) at Red Rocks (one of our absolute favorite chillaxin' places on the upper Atlantic coast of Dominica)
SCREWS Natural Spa
Jake and I going to the Stinking Hole :)
Middleham (above) and Trafalgar Falls (below)
Wes and I at Victoria Falls (my favorite on the island)
Wes, Lauren, Stef and Marylou climbing to Victoria
the girls tracking through the river
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Re-telling the dance ... 8 years ago today!
We retell our stories for many reasons.
Maybe we are telling a new friend something meaningful about our past so that the friendship can feel a bit more meaningful and substantive. When we retell our stories it's not just the other party that connects to our past, but it is the person telling the story who is reunited to what took place through remembering the scenery, smells, sounds, tastes, touches and so much more! When we read the narrative of the Scriptures it seems like many of the authors are telling the same story over and over again, especially when we read the Torah. Why is this? Robb and I used to have many discussions about the power of story and its imperative force of radical transformation in the trajectory of our ongoing story with G-d and creation. Our stories reconnect us to our Maker, our Abba, Adonai, the Great I AM! And once we quit telling our stories, we begin to forget the power of G-d, and his workings in our midst.
Stories are all we have when it's all said and done.
So, here's my story w/ my bride...
We met back in college. It was the spring of 1999. We were both Juniors at Baylor. My good friend, Tricia, took me to a spring formal. I was sporting the Back Street Boys look w/ spiky hair, bleached blond, wearing orange sunglasses inside the building at night! Yeah... I know! Coolness is my middle name.
This was Lauren's 1st impression of me. She knew me as "Tricia's friend" and I knew her as the mysterious blond Xi Omega who appeared to not really be a sorority girl, but one who seemed too smart for that kind of gig.
We were only casual acquaintances for a full year. I would see her at a party or on campus here and there throughout our senior year. She was definitely unapproachable and seemingly driven with ambition. She was a hard nut to crack, yet intriguing and someone who appeared to have more going on inside than other girls I'd dated in college.
It was the spring of our senior year, and I had a dream. It was rather odd... I dreamed that I was ballroom dancing. And, when I woke up I realized I was dancing w/ Lauren Kingsriter, a girl I really didn't "know," but a girl I think I ought to suddenly "know" in a more intimate way, perhaps.
We bumped into each other the next day at Tricia's place. And, as the boy who tends to insert "foot in mouth" on a regular basis, I recall going up to Lauren saying, "Hey! I had a dream about you last night. It was rather strange. We were ballroom dancing." Her reaction made me wonder if she was "into me" or ... NOT!
So, what was Lauren's reaction?
"PSYCHO!" That's right... Just a little advice for young boys who are trying to advance in relationships. Wait for the "dream" line until you've been on at least a few dates...
Well, that summer, I was in luck! Lauren moved in w/ Tricia. And, since Tricia and I were practically inseparable during college, I began seeing more of this "dream girl." I found myself having an instant crush on her after only spending a few days talking in depth w/ the "girl next door."
Lauren, a beautiful young woman, had a bit more to offer than the regular Baylor girl... I simply loved the way she loved her friends. She was wise beyond her years, a true nurturer, and a young woman who had a heart made of pure gold. I was drawn to her ability to love in strength. She seemed to have courage and I loved the instinctual drive for life. She had this laugh (and, of course, she still does...) that made/makes me giggle. I loved it when she would get tickled, or make herself laugh. Her eyes ... WOW! They still sparkle when she is living life to the fullest. And, the flirting began!
Fast forward to July 1, 2000... My friends all knew I had this "crush" and we were back in middle school once again. Everyone knew The stars were aligned, and a group of us were going to Lake Conroe for the day. So, they strategically made sure we sat next to one another and all that jazz. I remember I had to drive from Austin that morning for some reason, and meet everyone up there later in the morning. I called Tricia at the butt crack of dawn, and she started laughing her butt off b/c she knew me as someone who didn't like to get up earlier than noon on the weekends.
I drove to Conroe with butterflies in my stomach. I arrived, and there she was, already in the boat, looking glorious and spectacular. The day was amazing with a bit more flirting, waterskiiing, swimming and riding around in a boat in the middle of the summer sun sizzling down upon 2 kids beginning their romantic journey.
Later that night I asked if Lauren wanted to ride back to Waco w/ me in my pickup. We talked about family, life, school and everything in between. Matchbox 20 was playing the whole way back. I remember asking Lauren if she ever saw "The Matrix," and to my surprise, I was baffled. "Oh, you must see one of the coolest movies of our generation." I told her!
We arrived back pretty late, but when you are in college anything before midnight is too early.
With VHS cassette tape in hand, we took THE MATRIX to her apartment. It took me the entire movie to get the guts to hold her hand. I can't tell you how nervous I was, but it was pretty intense. My fingers came closer to her hand at one point, and she grabbed my hand.
I know... I'm a dork! :)
A few days later, after we hung out a bit more, I finally did something I've never done before with another girl. I was about to leave her apartment again one night, and standing under the doorway, I asked the most simple question... "Can I kiss you?"
There was a deeper respect, a deeper sense of "something beyond me is going on here" that I cannot fully articulate at the moment, but I knew that I had to ask this girl a question that most boys would never ask a soul, including the one typing this blog.
She said, "Yes!" It was a sweet, gentle, perfect and gracious kiss that felt pure and good in so many ways.
Well, it didn't take us long to realize that what we had was profound, and there was no stopping this train of love... The love words, the long nights talking about everything under the moonlight, and wonderful cuddling time (still, my all time favorite thing to do!).
Well, the rest is history, and I assume I'll blog about it some other day.
Lauren Beth Kingsriter and William Ryan Miller were engaged later that fall, and were ballroom dancing the following year, August 11, 2001! I danced that night w/ my beautiful princess bride, the daughter of Abba Father.
From Waco to Denver to San Antonio to Miami to Dominica... over the past 8 years of marriage and 9 years of love, this woman has been a rock and a light. She has been my partner, my best friend, my lover and my soul mate.
We were talking tonight about how much we've grown and changed since those years. And, we can honestly both say that the only reason we have grown closer together is because of the grace of G-d and his love for us, and our desire to keep our marriage rooted in the person of Jesus the Christ, our precious King, the Lord over all creation. G-d started our story, and he has seen us though the trials, the joys, the fights, the laughs, the tears, the battles, the encouraging words and the words that should never have been said, the good decisions and the bad decisions, the mountain tops and the valleys, the past, the future and TODAY, IN THE PRESENT!
The ONE thing we know. G-d is with us, always. His hand is upon us.
May the Lord be with you, your family, your marriage, and may he be the repairer of broken families, putting the lonely in families. G-d desires creation to connect. And, I can say that marriage is the closest thing to understanding this type of love.
Pray for the marriages within your community. Pray for steadfafst love, and for more men and women within the church to fight for their marriages. Pray for all the broken hearts, for the Lord to restore the broken pieces. Pray for families to unite, for children to be under the guidance of love and affection and for the promises of G-d to manifest in such powerful ways in our homes that the local communities surrounding our midst have to say, "HOW GREAT IS OUR G-D!"
Let's celebrate every day as we re-commit ourselves to the covenant of G-d and family. Let's relearn what it means to ballroom dance a new w/ our lovely spouses while seeking the dance steps from the greatest dancer of all, the Dancer of Life, YHWH!
shalom
Ryan
Maybe we are telling a new friend something meaningful about our past so that the friendship can feel a bit more meaningful and substantive. When we retell our stories it's not just the other party that connects to our past, but it is the person telling the story who is reunited to what took place through remembering the scenery, smells, sounds, tastes, touches and so much more! When we read the narrative of the Scriptures it seems like many of the authors are telling the same story over and over again, especially when we read the Torah. Why is this? Robb and I used to have many discussions about the power of story and its imperative force of radical transformation in the trajectory of our ongoing story with G-d and creation. Our stories reconnect us to our Maker, our Abba, Adonai, the Great I AM! And once we quit telling our stories, we begin to forget the power of G-d, and his workings in our midst.
Stories are all we have when it's all said and done.
So, here's my story w/ my bride...
We met back in college. It was the spring of 1999. We were both Juniors at Baylor. My good friend, Tricia, took me to a spring formal. I was sporting the Back Street Boys look w/ spiky hair, bleached blond, wearing orange sunglasses inside the building at night! Yeah... I know! Coolness is my middle name.
This was Lauren's 1st impression of me. She knew me as "Tricia's friend" and I knew her as the mysterious blond Xi Omega who appeared to not really be a sorority girl, but one who seemed too smart for that kind of gig.
We were only casual acquaintances for a full year. I would see her at a party or on campus here and there throughout our senior year. She was definitely unapproachable and seemingly driven with ambition. She was a hard nut to crack, yet intriguing and someone who appeared to have more going on inside than other girls I'd dated in college.
It was the spring of our senior year, and I had a dream. It was rather odd... I dreamed that I was ballroom dancing. And, when I woke up I realized I was dancing w/ Lauren Kingsriter, a girl I really didn't "know," but a girl I think I ought to suddenly "know" in a more intimate way, perhaps.
We bumped into each other the next day at Tricia's place. And, as the boy who tends to insert "foot in mouth" on a regular basis, I recall going up to Lauren saying, "Hey! I had a dream about you last night. It was rather strange. We were ballroom dancing." Her reaction made me wonder if she was "into me" or ... NOT!
So, what was Lauren's reaction?
"PSYCHO!" That's right... Just a little advice for young boys who are trying to advance in relationships. Wait for the "dream" line until you've been on at least a few dates...
Well, that summer, I was in luck! Lauren moved in w/ Tricia. And, since Tricia and I were practically inseparable during college, I began seeing more of this "dream girl." I found myself having an instant crush on her after only spending a few days talking in depth w/ the "girl next door."
Lauren, a beautiful young woman, had a bit more to offer than the regular Baylor girl... I simply loved the way she loved her friends. She was wise beyond her years, a true nurturer, and a young woman who had a heart made of pure gold. I was drawn to her ability to love in strength. She seemed to have courage and I loved the instinctual drive for life. She had this laugh (and, of course, she still does...) that made/makes me giggle. I loved it when she would get tickled, or make herself laugh. Her eyes ... WOW! They still sparkle when she is living life to the fullest. And, the flirting began!
Fast forward to July 1, 2000... My friends all knew I had this "crush" and we were back in middle school once again. Everyone knew The stars were aligned, and a group of us were going to Lake Conroe for the day. So, they strategically made sure we sat next to one another and all that jazz. I remember I had to drive from Austin that morning for some reason, and meet everyone up there later in the morning. I called Tricia at the butt crack of dawn, and she started laughing her butt off b/c she knew me as someone who didn't like to get up earlier than noon on the weekends.
I drove to Conroe with butterflies in my stomach. I arrived, and there she was, already in the boat, looking glorious and spectacular. The day was amazing with a bit more flirting, waterskiiing, swimming and riding around in a boat in the middle of the summer sun sizzling down upon 2 kids beginning their romantic journey.
Later that night I asked if Lauren wanted to ride back to Waco w/ me in my pickup. We talked about family, life, school and everything in between. Matchbox 20 was playing the whole way back. I remember asking Lauren if she ever saw "The Matrix," and to my surprise, I was baffled. "Oh, you must see one of the coolest movies of our generation." I told her!
We arrived back pretty late, but when you are in college anything before midnight is too early.
With VHS cassette tape in hand, we took THE MATRIX to her apartment. It took me the entire movie to get the guts to hold her hand. I can't tell you how nervous I was, but it was pretty intense. My fingers came closer to her hand at one point, and she grabbed my hand.
I know... I'm a dork! :)
A few days later, after we hung out a bit more, I finally did something I've never done before with another girl. I was about to leave her apartment again one night, and standing under the doorway, I asked the most simple question... "Can I kiss you?"
There was a deeper respect, a deeper sense of "something beyond me is going on here" that I cannot fully articulate at the moment, but I knew that I had to ask this girl a question that most boys would never ask a soul, including the one typing this blog.
She said, "Yes!" It was a sweet, gentle, perfect and gracious kiss that felt pure and good in so many ways.
Well, it didn't take us long to realize that what we had was profound, and there was no stopping this train of love... The love words, the long nights talking about everything under the moonlight, and wonderful cuddling time (still, my all time favorite thing to do!).
Well, the rest is history, and I assume I'll blog about it some other day.
Lauren Beth Kingsriter and William Ryan Miller were engaged later that fall, and were ballroom dancing the following year, August 11, 2001! I danced that night w/ my beautiful princess bride, the daughter of Abba Father.
From Waco to Denver to San Antonio to Miami to Dominica... over the past 8 years of marriage and 9 years of love, this woman has been a rock and a light. She has been my partner, my best friend, my lover and my soul mate.
We were talking tonight about how much we've grown and changed since those years. And, we can honestly both say that the only reason we have grown closer together is because of the grace of G-d and his love for us, and our desire to keep our marriage rooted in the person of Jesus the Christ, our precious King, the Lord over all creation. G-d started our story, and he has seen us though the trials, the joys, the fights, the laughs, the tears, the battles, the encouraging words and the words that should never have been said, the good decisions and the bad decisions, the mountain tops and the valleys, the past, the future and TODAY, IN THE PRESENT!
The ONE thing we know. G-d is with us, always. His hand is upon us.
May the Lord be with you, your family, your marriage, and may he be the repairer of broken families, putting the lonely in families. G-d desires creation to connect. And, I can say that marriage is the closest thing to understanding this type of love.
Pray for the marriages within your community. Pray for steadfafst love, and for more men and women within the church to fight for their marriages. Pray for all the broken hearts, for the Lord to restore the broken pieces. Pray for families to unite, for children to be under the guidance of love and affection and for the promises of G-d to manifest in such powerful ways in our homes that the local communities surrounding our midst have to say, "HOW GREAT IS OUR G-D!"
Let's celebrate every day as we re-commit ourselves to the covenant of G-d and family. Let's relearn what it means to ballroom dance a new w/ our lovely spouses while seeking the dance steps from the greatest dancer of all, the Dancer of Life, YHWH!
shalom
Ryan
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Water and Fire
In the beginning there was water before there was light...
The ruach/spirit/breath of G-d hovered over the waters.
Have you ever pondered the significance of water?
Seriously, though, it doesn't really take a rocket scientist or Ross medical student to understand that you must have H20 to live. Water is essential to life. The majority of the world is covered in water. Living in Dominica, the land of 365 rivers, is truly a blessing knowing that this particular land has been blessed with life. Many of us read statistics and articles online regarding people living in other parts of the world who have no access to clean drinking water. While this might seem unfathomable to a Westerner, people who spend absurd amounts of cash on bottled water, the truth of the matter is that water is the most precious gift of life on the planet.
Thus, it comes as no surprise to me that so much of the biblical narrative revolves around water.
The rivers in the garden of Eden... Noah's Ark... Jacob's well... the dividing of the Red Sea... the crossing of the Jordan River... and Jesus, speaking to the Samaritan woman at the well while revealing that He is the source of Living Water...
In Leviticus, we read about the ritual purification by the priests when approaching the Lord's tabernacle. Later on, the ritual of cleansing oneself became a defining feature throughout the Jewish world. Washing cups, utensils and hands were done with deliberate and seemingly meticulous measures for appearing before a holy G-d.
Mikveh, a Hebrew word which describes a collection of a body of water(s), also known as the "womb of the world," was an important ritual during the 1st century. Mikveh's were special Jewish baths requiring living water which were all around the temple and local synagogues in Ancient Israel.
The mikveh was used for women after their menstruation cycle, men after nocturnal emissions, men and women after sex, those with any bodily discharges, people with skin infections, one whose body touched a corpse, someone who ate meat from an animal that died naturally, the priest who placed his hands upon the scapegoat during Yom Kippur, the chosen one who led out the goat, and for converts from the pagan world to Judaism. It is important to note that mikveh washings/immersions were not about following a health code, although that is obviously implied with many of these factors listed above. The main reason for mikveh was for spiritual and ritual purification, as if one was re-approaching the holy Lord, YHWH! However, the most important feature in mikveh was one of the most crucial and fantastic Jewish practices to exist throughout all of history.
T'SHUVAH...
This Hebrew word means "to turn" and it's the word we use for repent! In Greek, the word means to change one's mind.
I like the Hebrew word better as it speaks of a mind, body, heart and soul TURN back to the Lord. Turning from one's sins, becoming aware and owning up to wrongdoings, evil and injustice in the world, moving back to the Father was necessary for mikveh!
In Luke 3, we read that John the Baptist came preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. John, as seen through the context of the 1st century was probably an Essene (separatist group of pious individuals who fled pagan society for reform and holiness). Essenes were mikveh junkies, so to speak. What we, as modern day Christians, have failed to see through studying John's baptism as it applies to modern day baptisms in Christian churches, is that John was not doing anything new. John was practicing mikveh!
People were coming out of the cities to hear this message of one preaching in the wilderness, and many were cut to the core b/c they had fallen away from the teaching of G-d. Luke quotes Isaiah 40, describing the scene of the coming out of exile, the hope of Israel and the dawn of a new age which flows for many chapters culminating in a whole new world under the promised Messiah.
John was simply preparing the way, making the rough places smooth, as was normal when a king came to town.
So, what does water have to do with preparing the way?
EVERYTHING!
Water is central to life.
Water was there in the beginning, during the fall, the exodus, the temple cleansings and so on...
Water is about new beginnings.
But we must see this picture of water with John and the coming Messiah in terms of its proper context, and this specific context has always been about T'SHUVAH, turning back to G-d.
I dig John's passion, his boldness, and his ability to speak the truth, not necessarily "in love" either. He's all about the truth, and nothing but the truth, shouting, "You brood of vipers!" I can't imagine telling a bunch of people that they are going to get whacked by an ax, thrown into the fire, and that the wrath of G-d is upon them!
WOW! I don't know if I really want that job b/c it seems to me that I would probably be fired after my first message. Yet, John was more concerned about his role in preparing the way for his beloved nation, Israel.
No more bragging rights about being a child of Abraham... G-d means business!
And, of course, the people knew that the Lord was serious b/c they knew their story book very well. If the people continued to live in certain ways, specific things would begin to happen. It's written all throughout the prophets in the Hebrew Scriptures.
"What must we do?" asked the people!
John's response... basically... act justly... don't cheat someone... share... be generous... don't do someone wrong... basic justice issues! If G-d's people were living lives of injustice, odds are, they were not connected to the source of life, the vine, G-d! His repentance message was clearly about bearing fruit. If you aren't filled with love, joy, peace, patience, etc., then you are not really repentant!
John reminded the people that he came to baptize with water, preparing people, getting hearts turned back. Yet, the big part of the story came next. John mentioned the Messiah, who will baptize with fire and with the Holy Spirit.
So, we have talked about water. But what about fire?
What about fire and the Holy Spirit?
Fire, a source of light, is also necessary for life. We must have light to see! This picture of fire and the Holy Spirit has really intrigued me lately as well. G-d is seen in scripture through the picture of fire.
the burning bush... the fire above Sinai... pillar of fire at night...
But fire is also seen as a picture of judgment, D-day! Fire is a picture of Gehenna/hell, the city dump, where children were once sacrificed to pagan gods. We often have a difficult time with speaking about the judgment of G-d. I think it is best to see the judgment of G-d through his love for the world b/c G-d only wants what's best for his creation. Judgment is really all about love and purification.
And, fire is also seen as something which refines and purifies elements.
John described the Messiah as the one will will separate the wheat from the chaff, the person responsible for judgment.
Jesus, the Rabbi from Nazareth is then seen coming into the scene being baptized through mikveh in the Jordan River. Heaven was ripped open and the Holy Spirit descended on him like a dove. A voice from the heavens said, "You are my son whom I love am am well pleased."
The ministry of Jesus is more than water. It's more than ritual cleansing. But before we can begin talking about the power through the Holy Spirit and the implications upon our current communities, we must get down to the business of water, indeed.
Mikveh/water ritual cleansing is all about repentance. If we want any action on the movement of the Holy Spirit, we need to get serious about what it means to "prepare the way." To "prepare the way" of the Lord's movement within our families, communities and nations, we need leaders of all kinds willing to not only talk about repentance, but ones willing to set the example and begin doing so in order for real fruit to bear on our current defiled soil.
If John the Baptist came to our homes and our church, what would he see?
Would he see a bunch of Christians saying, "We are cool. We have made a profession, said a prayer and are all good!" How similar are we, N. American Christians, to the Jews living in the 1st century who thought that all they needed was a Hebrew National Card when dealing with G-d?
If we belong to G-d, we must represent G-d. And, if we represent G-d, this means we need to look at every area of our life, and see what hasn't been turned over to Him.
Bottom line: What are your golden calves?
Have you turned the following over to G-d? Finances, future, sexuality, family, local community, global responsibilities, adversaries, disciplines, leisure time, work, studies, friendships, speech, material possessions, etc.? This isn't about guilty manipulation. This is about being clean!
Water is beautiful. Water is imperative to life. When we think through or possibly begin to practice mikveh, leading up to the preparation of G-d's movement through Jesus in our midst, let's be reminded of the pure, cleansing flood that has washed over us, making us whole again.
Jesus said that HE was the LIVING WATER!
Through him, we have been buried with him through baptism/mikveh, and raised to walk in a new kind of life through a brand new womb, becoming new children headed for greatness in the kingdom of heaven.
And after water, comes FIRE! But this kind of fire sets the world a blaze with a gospel message of liberation, grace, healing, loving kindness, justice, mercy, forgiveness and compassion for all creation. We, those connected to Jesus, the Messiah, are empowered to carry the torch, becoming the light of the world. And, this new light gives light to all humankind b/c light will always outshine the darkness.
Know this... fire can be frightening. Remember, kids, don't play with fire!!! But when handled with care, fire can be tremendously useful and powerful for goodness.
Fire and Water... part of life, integrated into life and always at work!
Remember your baptism daily. Remember your dying to self, the need to repent and turn on a daily basis, and fully coming back to G-d in every area of your life. Remember the fire that burns deep within your soul, the light of life, so that all may see and live in the shalom of YHWH. The desire of G-d's heart is that nobody should perish, but that everyone would have life to the fullest.
Let's be a part of that glorious vision of water and fire in a dark, hurting yet hope filled world in need of Jesus the Living Water and Light of the world!
The ruach/spirit/breath of G-d hovered over the waters.
Have you ever pondered the significance of water?
Seriously, though, it doesn't really take a rocket scientist or Ross medical student to understand that you must have H20 to live. Water is essential to life. The majority of the world is covered in water. Living in Dominica, the land of 365 rivers, is truly a blessing knowing that this particular land has been blessed with life. Many of us read statistics and articles online regarding people living in other parts of the world who have no access to clean drinking water. While this might seem unfathomable to a Westerner, people who spend absurd amounts of cash on bottled water, the truth of the matter is that water is the most precious gift of life on the planet.
Thus, it comes as no surprise to me that so much of the biblical narrative revolves around water.
The rivers in the garden of Eden... Noah's Ark... Jacob's well... the dividing of the Red Sea... the crossing of the Jordan River... and Jesus, speaking to the Samaritan woman at the well while revealing that He is the source of Living Water...
In Leviticus, we read about the ritual purification by the priests when approaching the Lord's tabernacle. Later on, the ritual of cleansing oneself became a defining feature throughout the Jewish world. Washing cups, utensils and hands were done with deliberate and seemingly meticulous measures for appearing before a holy G-d.
Mikveh, a Hebrew word which describes a collection of a body of water(s), also known as the "womb of the world," was an important ritual during the 1st century. Mikveh's were special Jewish baths requiring living water which were all around the temple and local synagogues in Ancient Israel.
The mikveh was used for women after their menstruation cycle, men after nocturnal emissions, men and women after sex, those with any bodily discharges, people with skin infections, one whose body touched a corpse, someone who ate meat from an animal that died naturally, the priest who placed his hands upon the scapegoat during Yom Kippur, the chosen one who led out the goat, and for converts from the pagan world to Judaism. It is important to note that mikveh washings/immersions were not about following a health code, although that is obviously implied with many of these factors listed above. The main reason for mikveh was for spiritual and ritual purification, as if one was re-approaching the holy Lord, YHWH! However, the most important feature in mikveh was one of the most crucial and fantastic Jewish practices to exist throughout all of history.
T'SHUVAH...
This Hebrew word means "to turn" and it's the word we use for repent! In Greek, the word means to change one's mind.
I like the Hebrew word better as it speaks of a mind, body, heart and soul TURN back to the Lord. Turning from one's sins, becoming aware and owning up to wrongdoings, evil and injustice in the world, moving back to the Father was necessary for mikveh!
In Luke 3, we read that John the Baptist came preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. John, as seen through the context of the 1st century was probably an Essene (separatist group of pious individuals who fled pagan society for reform and holiness). Essenes were mikveh junkies, so to speak. What we, as modern day Christians, have failed to see through studying John's baptism as it applies to modern day baptisms in Christian churches, is that John was not doing anything new. John was practicing mikveh!
People were coming out of the cities to hear this message of one preaching in the wilderness, and many were cut to the core b/c they had fallen away from the teaching of G-d. Luke quotes Isaiah 40, describing the scene of the coming out of exile, the hope of Israel and the dawn of a new age which flows for many chapters culminating in a whole new world under the promised Messiah.
John was simply preparing the way, making the rough places smooth, as was normal when a king came to town.
So, what does water have to do with preparing the way?
EVERYTHING!
Water is central to life.
Water was there in the beginning, during the fall, the exodus, the temple cleansings and so on...
Water is about new beginnings.
But we must see this picture of water with John and the coming Messiah in terms of its proper context, and this specific context has always been about T'SHUVAH, turning back to G-d.
I dig John's passion, his boldness, and his ability to speak the truth, not necessarily "in love" either. He's all about the truth, and nothing but the truth, shouting, "You brood of vipers!" I can't imagine telling a bunch of people that they are going to get whacked by an ax, thrown into the fire, and that the wrath of G-d is upon them!
WOW! I don't know if I really want that job b/c it seems to me that I would probably be fired after my first message. Yet, John was more concerned about his role in preparing the way for his beloved nation, Israel.
No more bragging rights about being a child of Abraham... G-d means business!
And, of course, the people knew that the Lord was serious b/c they knew their story book very well. If the people continued to live in certain ways, specific things would begin to happen. It's written all throughout the prophets in the Hebrew Scriptures.
"What must we do?" asked the people!
John's response... basically... act justly... don't cheat someone... share... be generous... don't do someone wrong... basic justice issues! If G-d's people were living lives of injustice, odds are, they were not connected to the source of life, the vine, G-d! His repentance message was clearly about bearing fruit. If you aren't filled with love, joy, peace, patience, etc., then you are not really repentant!
John reminded the people that he came to baptize with water, preparing people, getting hearts turned back. Yet, the big part of the story came next. John mentioned the Messiah, who will baptize with fire and with the Holy Spirit.
So, we have talked about water. But what about fire?
What about fire and the Holy Spirit?
Fire, a source of light, is also necessary for life. We must have light to see! This picture of fire and the Holy Spirit has really intrigued me lately as well. G-d is seen in scripture through the picture of fire.
the burning bush... the fire above Sinai... pillar of fire at night...
But fire is also seen as a picture of judgment, D-day! Fire is a picture of Gehenna/hell, the city dump, where children were once sacrificed to pagan gods. We often have a difficult time with speaking about the judgment of G-d. I think it is best to see the judgment of G-d through his love for the world b/c G-d only wants what's best for his creation. Judgment is really all about love and purification.
And, fire is also seen as something which refines and purifies elements.
John described the Messiah as the one will will separate the wheat from the chaff, the person responsible for judgment.
Jesus, the Rabbi from Nazareth is then seen coming into the scene being baptized through mikveh in the Jordan River. Heaven was ripped open and the Holy Spirit descended on him like a dove. A voice from the heavens said, "You are my son whom I love am am well pleased."
The ministry of Jesus is more than water. It's more than ritual cleansing. But before we can begin talking about the power through the Holy Spirit and the implications upon our current communities, we must get down to the business of water, indeed.
Mikveh/water ritual cleansing is all about repentance. If we want any action on the movement of the Holy Spirit, we need to get serious about what it means to "prepare the way." To "prepare the way" of the Lord's movement within our families, communities and nations, we need leaders of all kinds willing to not only talk about repentance, but ones willing to set the example and begin doing so in order for real fruit to bear on our current defiled soil.
If John the Baptist came to our homes and our church, what would he see?
Would he see a bunch of Christians saying, "We are cool. We have made a profession, said a prayer and are all good!" How similar are we, N. American Christians, to the Jews living in the 1st century who thought that all they needed was a Hebrew National Card when dealing with G-d?
If we belong to G-d, we must represent G-d. And, if we represent G-d, this means we need to look at every area of our life, and see what hasn't been turned over to Him.
Bottom line: What are your golden calves?
Have you turned the following over to G-d? Finances, future, sexuality, family, local community, global responsibilities, adversaries, disciplines, leisure time, work, studies, friendships, speech, material possessions, etc.? This isn't about guilty manipulation. This is about being clean!
Water is beautiful. Water is imperative to life. When we think through or possibly begin to practice mikveh, leading up to the preparation of G-d's movement through Jesus in our midst, let's be reminded of the pure, cleansing flood that has washed over us, making us whole again.
Jesus said that HE was the LIVING WATER!
Through him, we have been buried with him through baptism/mikveh, and raised to walk in a new kind of life through a brand new womb, becoming new children headed for greatness in the kingdom of heaven.
And after water, comes FIRE! But this kind of fire sets the world a blaze with a gospel message of liberation, grace, healing, loving kindness, justice, mercy, forgiveness and compassion for all creation. We, those connected to Jesus, the Messiah, are empowered to carry the torch, becoming the light of the world. And, this new light gives light to all humankind b/c light will always outshine the darkness.
Know this... fire can be frightening. Remember, kids, don't play with fire!!! But when handled with care, fire can be tremendously useful and powerful for goodness.
Fire and Water... part of life, integrated into life and always at work!
Remember your baptism daily. Remember your dying to self, the need to repent and turn on a daily basis, and fully coming back to G-d in every area of your life. Remember the fire that burns deep within your soul, the light of life, so that all may see and live in the shalom of YHWH. The desire of G-d's heart is that nobody should perish, but that everyone would have life to the fullest.
Let's be a part of that glorious vision of water and fire in a dark, hurting yet hope filled world in need of Jesus the Living Water and Light of the world!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
A Sunday Afternoon/Evening
I love Sundays!
I love the body of Christ, and I love being intentional about getting together for corporate worship and fellowship, bringing our gifts, offerings, stories, personalities and everything else together in a united effort to love G-d and love our neighbor as ourselves.
Many of you know that we started Lighthouse, a nondenominational house church plant here in Dominica. We are a mix of students, spouses, children and some locals who gather each week to eat different dishes brought to the table, share stories, pray the Shema, take the Eucharist/Communion, wrestle with the text of the week, bless one another, minister to our beloved and beautiful children the Lord has given us, discuss "family business," wash dishes and praise the Lord with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength!
I love the preparation behind Sunday evenings too, the setting of the table, so to speak. Our church has decided to read the same chapter of the Bible every day for an entire week, letting the text seep into our day to day lives. Jake (our praise and worship leader) and I get together for discussion, lunch and a little preparation during mid week. We all randomly get to see one another all throughout any given week b/c we all live in a small village. On Sundays, I spend some time reading through the text in more detail, praying through some discussion topics, etc., and seeking the Lord's direction for our evening of worship. I get to serve through cooking, cleaning the house, setting things up, baking the Communion bread, and enjoying the fullness of a Sunday. Later, I make a trip down to Chance, a poorer "suburb" outside of Portsmouth to visit and take groceries to a family I have grown to love and cherish. Janet is a single mom with the following kiddos: Shon, Kendell, Tamika, Janelle, Curnel, Jayim and Kaylie. WOW! I know... they are a handful, but precious. After visiting this family, I pick up Joseph, my little buddy who I am mentoring, and take him to Lighthouse.
This is the families' old shack in Chance. Can you believe they all lived here? It's even smaller than it looks in the picture. The government just built them a new home, which has 2 bedrooms, a small kitchen and a small living area,
Robb and Stef waiting on everyone to arrive.
Joseph and me
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Another Friday at the Park: In.Light.In.
Here are some more pics from this past week at In.Light.In.
Wow! This semester is really flying by fast. We only have 4 more weeks of In.Light.In. until the semester break, and then we will enter the 4th semester at Ross University. Over the 2-3 week break, we allow families to take time off for one another while regrouping and recharging for the upcoming season. We will be losing 2 solid core leaders, Tricia and Robb. They will definitely be missed. Also, we have a behind the scenes crew that bakes, cooks and organizes our food schedule (along w/ the awesome locals that donate fruit and juice each week). So, we are in need of new help here as well. I continue to ask the Lord for harvest workers for His kingdom, praying that students and spouses will be called to the children in Portsmouth. We always have a bunch of people check it out, but only a few last, as it is a tough calling to commit to the kids in the hot Dominican sun week to week. The road is narrow... For every 10 adults that come down to check it out, approx. 1 stays/per semester. Please, pray for this upcoming class... that the Lord would grant favor upon this program for the glory of His kingdom, and pray that He would ignite an all consuming, undying passionate love filled with compassion in the hearts of the students and spouses at Ross U. for the kids in Dominica. In addition to this request, pray for the Lord to lead the right person to take over my role, as Lauren and I are now nearing the end of our stay (either we leave in December for Miami, or stay another semester for 5th, which will take us to April... leaning toward staying right now!). May we trust in G-d for all provisions.
shalom
Ryan
Wow! This semester is really flying by fast. We only have 4 more weeks of In.Light.In. until the semester break, and then we will enter the 4th semester at Ross University. Over the 2-3 week break, we allow families to take time off for one another while regrouping and recharging for the upcoming season. We will be losing 2 solid core leaders, Tricia and Robb. They will definitely be missed. Also, we have a behind the scenes crew that bakes, cooks and organizes our food schedule (along w/ the awesome locals that donate fruit and juice each week). So, we are in need of new help here as well. I continue to ask the Lord for harvest workers for His kingdom, praying that students and spouses will be called to the children in Portsmouth. We always have a bunch of people check it out, but only a few last, as it is a tough calling to commit to the kids in the hot Dominican sun week to week. The road is narrow... For every 10 adults that come down to check it out, approx. 1 stays/per semester. Please, pray for this upcoming class... that the Lord would grant favor upon this program for the glory of His kingdom, and pray that He would ignite an all consuming, undying passionate love filled with compassion in the hearts of the students and spouses at Ross U. for the kids in Dominica. In addition to this request, pray for the Lord to lead the right person to take over my role, as Lauren and I are now nearing the end of our stay (either we leave in December for Miami, or stay another semester for 5th, which will take us to April... leaning toward staying right now!). May we trust in G-d for all provisions.
shalom
Ryan
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
KFC!!!
What is it about the Colonel's chicken? Maybe it does have an addictive chemical of some sort that makes you crave more and more! Well, the kids in Dominica absolutely LOVE KFC, and I find it amusing that it never gets old. Then again, this new restaurant is like 5 star dining to most people living in this 3rd world country.
I usually take a small group out once a week and let them pick the place. This particular group consisting of Shon, Kendell, Jamal and Jonathan, were stinkin' hilarious! Lauren was able to go w/ me this time, and she thoroughly enjoyed these awesome little dudes. At one point during the night, we all got our Kids Pack action figures, WOLVERINE on a bike, and raced all over the floor. Jonathan was a bit nervous, calling everyone to, "Calm and Quiet..." as those were Lauren's literal words prior to the chicken feast. But he soon realized that Lauren and I were all about having a good time, and so, he too, gave over to his kid self and played the night away.
I usually take a small group out once a week and let them pick the place. This particular group consisting of Shon, Kendell, Jamal and Jonathan, were stinkin' hilarious! Lauren was able to go w/ me this time, and she thoroughly enjoyed these awesome little dudes. At one point during the night, we all got our Kids Pack action figures, WOLVERINE on a bike, and raced all over the floor. Jonathan was a bit nervous, calling everyone to, "Calm and Quiet..." as those were Lauren's literal words prior to the chicken feast. But he soon realized that Lauren and I were all about having a good time, and so, he too, gave over to his kid self and played the night away.
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