So I've been thinking a bit about language that we use and what it says about our theology. The main phrase that has caught my attention in the last few weeks is the notion of 'entering the presence of God' or being 'in God's presence.' I guess I know what I mean when I've used that language before, but I've been wondering if it is actually helpful? Or does it subconsciously have us heading in a Deist sort of way, where God has set the world into motion and then let it do its thing while he watches from a distance? "Entering the presence of God" would seem to imply that we are coming from out of it, and therefore perhaps that God is not involved in every aspect of our lives, or perhaps only a little...but not as much as the parts when we "enter his presence." Is it this sort of language that keeps us from talking to God or interacting with him outside of Sunday services? Does this sort of language promote religiosity rather than true discipleship? Is there a better way of saying what it is we really mean, and therefore not confusing those who encounter this language in the formative stages of their understanding of God? I don't know...maybe...maybe not...just a thought...
Don't Corrupt Aid
I don't usually get hard out involved in political action...but recent comments by our minister for trade and foreign affairs that relate to our country's aid donations have concerned me...as they have many others as is evident from the formation of the website http://www.dontcorruptaid.org.nz/ It's well worth a read to see what our government is proposing to do, and who will lose out as a result...but rather than me explain it, go read it for yourself...and then have your say...let's show the government they were voted in because we thought they might do a better job of listening to the people!
You can also find some good articles and discussion on the topic at
http://www.humanitarianchronicle.com/
Lent
Lent is the time from Ash Wednesday to Easter, where traditionally Christians have fasted from certain things in order to re-center their lives on God and change habits and mindsets. Last year I went without all drinks other than water and stayed clear of confectionery, which was excellent for my health and got me into the habit of drinking water, but this year I wanted something that would impact my life outside of food. So my wife and I have been lenting from TV for a week now and it's amazing...we have so much more time...talk so much more...read our Bibles more...and get so much more done - not to mention getting to bed earlier and therefore being less tired! It's actually very freeing to choose to opt out of what is considered 'normal' in order to have a better quality of life. So I don't see the sports news every morning and night now...who cares? I have a more relaxed and centered lifestyle and an even better relationship with my wife, and am being way more productive while seemingly having more time for everything. Come the end of lent, I'm not sure I want things to go back to the way they were...maybe I'll just keep lenting!
Sunsets
These two were taken from our front doorstep in Waitakere, Auckland
This one on the left was taken in Richmond, Nelson, and the one on the right from Piha Beach
Leadership - Developing Potential
I recently read an interview with Stephen Covey (7 Habits of Highly Effective People etc.) and I loved two of the things he said about leadership. First he said, "Leadership is basically moral authority and influence, and comes from communicating people's worth and potential so clearly they come to see it in themselves." I think this is brilliant! I love that this statement is about people and not about getting things done. Sure leaders are working towards something, but doing it by working with and for people is so much better than doing it despite people. In fact, some people who are in the role of leadership are actually useless as leaders! Covey addresses this point well too, saying "People are too focused on leadership being a position, and this nurtures a spirit of ambition and achievement rather than a spirit of service and contribution." Talk about nail on the head. All the best leaders I know are fantastic leaders regardless of position, and they realise that if they don't serve and look after their followers they won't truly be effective as a leader. Well done Mr. Covey!!
