Are you prone to this condition?  It seems that a lot of politicians are.  We've all been in meetings or classes where the presenter or teacher was suffering from this condition.  Half the time even our newscasts fill the time with hot air.  It's a difficult condition to deal with, as so many seem to be living with it.  Signs of being in a place where this condition is present include sleepiness, day-dreaming and dry mouth.  So, my difficult question is, are you full of hot air?

Of course, this isn't a medical condition.  But when we say someone is "full of hot air", aren't we basically saying, "what they said didn't really matter".  I've done that.  I'm sure you have to.  And when we're just shooting the breeze with friends or family, maybe its no big deal.  But, sometimes, don't we want our conversations to matter and not just be "full of hot air"?

In 2 Timothy 2:16 it says, "Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly."  Hmm...godless chatter.  How would you define godless chatter?  I think it is talking like God doesn't exist.  Filling the air with conversations that don't really matter.  Does that mean we need to talk as though we're giving a sermon all the time or something?  Well, no.  I think it just means we should avoid conversations that lead no where, or worse, lead to discouragement, anger and arguing.

It reminds me of a verse we looked at recently in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 which simply says, "pray continually".  How do you pray continually?  It doesn't mean we have our eyes closed in focused prayer 24/7.  It means prayer is our first and last response.  It means we have an open line with God, and that we invite him into our day.  I find some of the most enjoyable times for Chrissy and I as a couple is when we're both busy working around the house doing separate chores, but we're together doing it.  There's pauses, and questions, and "stopping for a snack", "can you help me with this", and stopping to chat with the neighbours.  We've invited each other into our day.  And even when we're apart, there are things we can't wait to tell each other when we get together again.  By the way, if you're married, and this sounds weird...I'm not a great marriage counsellor, but I'll do my best.  Give me a call.  This image of our relationship helps me understand what praying continually means.  We've invited God to be part of our day.

It think it's similar when we think about what we "chat" about.  I've had conversations that led no where.  Sadly, I've initiated conversations that led no where.  Sometimes I leave feeling discouraged and frustrated.  That's not godly conversation, that's godless chatter.  Godly conversation is encouraging, challenging, makes you think, deepens your relationships, puts others first in word and thought.  We invite God into our conversation.  This kind of conversation can happen with believers and unbelievers alike.  And when we invite God to be a part of the conversation, our relationships with God and others will grow.  We will grow.

Here's three ways to avoid godless chatter (applicable to all conversations)
1. Listen first.  Ask yourself, "Have I really tried to understand what they've said or where they're coming from?"
2. Think before you speak.  "Is what I'm about to say true or helpful?  Should I say it, even if it is?"
3. Focus on good things.  "Are we just complaining?"

I confess.  Sometimes I'm full of hot air.  I have conversations that are not uplifting and are full of "godless chatter".  I'm working at it.  How about you?  Are you full of hot air?  Does what you talk about matter?  Ask God to help you have significant conversations as you grow in your faith and relationships.

​-Jason

I enjoy superhero movies.  As a kid I watched the Spiderman cartoon, and was enthralled when they made that first live-action Spiderman movie a few years ago.  I love seeing the hero win the day...and, well, I like the action too :)  I say this, because it seems common these days for superhero movies to have a hidden scene at the end of the credits that wets your appetite for the next big blockbuster.  Several years ago I watched one of the "Iron Man" movies and we left the theatre when the credits came up.  Of course, as you can imagine, I was asked soon after "what did you think of that scene after the credits?"  Oh no!  I had skipped out early.  I had missed something great.  I didn't think there was anything more, and quit the movie too early.

In the big picture of life, it doesn't matter whether I missed a hidden scene in a superhero movie.  But in the big picture of life, especially as followers of Jesus, I do think sometimes we quit early and miss out on something great.

As often happens with me, the lyrics of a song sparked this thought.  I've been enjoying a new song by Bethel Music called "Shine On Us".  There's a lyric that says, "You're waking us to life.  You've only begun".  We believe when you invite Jesus into your life as your personal saviour, he "wakes us to life" (Ephesians 2:4-5).  But how many times do we stop there.  We've received an incredible gift from God, but we think that's all there is.  But life in Christ is only the beginning! 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 says, "But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit."

We are being transformed to be more like Jesus.  With "ever-increasing glory".  We aren't supposed to just be woken to life (although that's awesome), and that's it.  It's just the beginning.  But sometimes we're just satisfied with the bare minimum.  And we don't really let God transform us into his image...increasingly reflecting His glory.

My encouragement to you and me today is; don't stop.  Philippians 3:12 says it well, "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me."  Keep seeking.  Keep praying.  Keeping believing.  Keeping confessing.  Keep on...or you'll miss out on something great!

Have you ever been stung by a bee?  I remember once doing something outside, looking down and there was a big bumble bee on my shirt...and fear swept over me.  I didn't want to get stung.  Now, thankfully I'm not allergic or anything, but who wants to get stung by a bee?  It hurts.  Thankfully I managed to stay calm, and the bee flew away.  You probably were hoping this story had a more dramatic ending...sorry to disappoint.

1 Corinthians 15:56-57 says, "The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."  Certainly, death does sting.  It hurts to lose someone you love.  But it's interesting that this verse doesn't say that death is the sting, but sin.  Physical death is a time of hope for those who are believers in Jesus.  We talk about "losing our loved one", but really, when we die in Christ, we have not lost them.  We know where they are...we just have lost their physical presence for a time.  Philipians 1:21 says, "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain."  Don't get me wrong, I don't want to diminish how difficult it when someone we love passes away, even if we know we'll see them again.  But the sting is gone.  Why?  Because sin has been dealt with.  We've been forgiven.  The thing that separates us from a loving God are gone.  The Law, or just trying to do it ourselves, couldn't do it.  "He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 15:57).
​
I recently heard a nice song, talking about our spirit going home.  It was well done and brought a tear to many an eye.  But it wasn't centred around the hope of Jesus.  It's Jesus that will take us home.  John 14:2 says, "My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?"

"It is quite another matter where sin has not been dealt with" (Tyndale Commentary).  Some people are ashamed of their past.  Ashamed of their sin.  They don't want to come to church because they think we'll focus on what they've done wrong.  I love what pastor Chris Hodges from Church of the Highlands in Alabama said, "God doesn't want to talk about your past, He wants to settle your past."  Isn't that awesome.  Certainly, sometimes there's stuff in our past we have to deal with, but from an eternal perspective, God wants to settle it.  Help us move on.  Give us a hope and a future.  I'm thankful we serve a merciful God, and I'm not the judge of a person at the end of their life.  God is.  But I'm even more thankful that the sting can be taken away, today.

So are you afraid of being stung?  Let Jesus take the stinger out :)

I welcome your comments.
-Jason

There was a premier of the province of Ontario who was elected with the slogan, "The Common-sense Revolution".  I suspect you know who.  Whether you agreed with his politics are not, that slogan resonated with a lot of people.  In a world out of control, we just need some common sense, right?

I'll bet you've used (or thought) that phrase without even realizing it.  I think of it often when I hear about the school system today and some of the challenges faced by students, teachers and parents.  "What happened to common sense?" I think.  The problem is, of course, whose "sense" are we talking about.  I have found myself in arguments with people when I realized we had different definitions of what the common sense solution would be to this or that situation.  Sense didn't seem to be "common" between us.

Webster's defines common sense as "the ability to think and behave in a reasonable way and to make good decisions".  Think before you say or do something.  Look at all the options and choices, weighing the pros and cons, and then make a decision.  Good advice, certainly.  But there's a problem when it comes to applying this to our faith in Jesus too strictly.  

Faith is sometimes unreasonable.

Faith sometimes doesn't make sense at all, let-a-lone common sense.  Oh, don't get me wrong, we don't throw our minds out as Christians.  Reading, studying, critical thought...those things are welcome and encouraged.  God's Word is powerful, and rich.  "..who correctly handles the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15, NIV).  But ultimately, faith is what makes the real difference.  "And without faith it is impossible to please God..." (Hebrews 11:6a, NIV).

Faith sometimes doesn't make sense.

Why would God ask that person to leave their well paying job to serve others?  Faith.
Why would that church step out and build that new building?  Isn't the status quo safer?  Faith.
Why does that person seem at peace...didn't they just hear what the doctor said?  Faith.
How can I trust a God who says crazy things like he'll forgive everything I've ever done and give me a full life both today and tomorrow?  It doesn't quite make sense.  Common sense would say I deserve what's coming to me...but God says I'll get what I don't deserve.

It sure doesn't make sense, but I'll take faith please.
-Jason

Maybe your friend or neighbour is just waiting for an invitation?  What a great time to invite them to church.
Good Friday at 9:00am or 11:30am at the Capitol Centre.
Easter Sunday Service@Laurentian.  10:30am.

Here's some motivation from our friends at www.skitguys.com

I read an article by Jarrid Wilson today that is titled, "Christianity Without Repentance Isn't Christianity".  It's a good, short article.  You can read it by clicking here.

How would you define the word "repentance"?  I would say it is turning away from something that is not pleasing to God.  Making a u-turn in life.  In my life, shame has brought me to repentance at times.  I have to come to God and admit that I've sinned.  But would you attach words like joy, beauty or privilege to the word repentance?  Probably not...but I think we should.

Jarrid writes, "Repentance is all about turning away from our fleshly desires, and instead clinging to the beauty and supremacy of God’s will. There is nothing to be ashamed about in admitting you’ve messed up. Repentance bridges the gap between our failures and God’s forgiveness. That’s the beauty. It’s the gateway to new life and an unrelenting relationship with God."

I suppose I don't completely agree with Jarrid that there is no shame in repentance.  Facing repentance is always humbling.  When we look at God's holiness and our sin, there will be shame.  But repentance doesn't stop there...it brings freedom.  It is the conduit for God's forgiveness.  Our guilt is lifted.  We are washed clean.  Repentance isn't a hammer to hit people over the head with, but rather a ladder to extend so people can climb up.

"Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out..."  Acts 3:19, ESV

Have you ever turned on the light only to find a surprise...such as a rodent or a bug hiding there?  It can be startling.  This morning I read 1 John 1:7, "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin."  I think sometimes we look at the light of Christ as exposing the "bugs" hiding in people's lives.  And indeed, this light does expose what's hidden in the darkness.  But I think this verse has a few more things to say to us.  Here's three reminders of what it means to "walk in the light".

1. The light creates an even playing field.
Light walkers are walking together.  When we choose to not allow Christ's light to shine on our path, it can create division.  We can start to resent others, or judge others, depending on how much light we or they walk in.  Walking in Christ's light shouldn't create an "us and them" mentality.  We're all invited to come into the light and receive the cleansing offered by Jesus no matter who we are or what darkness we currently live in.

2. Walking in the light isn't pretending we don't sin.
Our church believes you and I can be set free from sin.  That God can unbend our bent towards sinning.  Sadly, sometimes this encourages a "holier than thou" attitude.  Let me be clear; we will always deal with sin.  There will always be things in our lives that God wants to bring into the light.  Walking in the light doesn't mean we don't have any "bugs" to deal with, it just exposes them so they can be dealt with.  Otherwise why would we need to be purified by the blood of Jesus, as the verse says.  We are purified after we step into the light, not as a prerequisite for getting to the light to begin with.

3.  Walking in the light moves us forward.
It doesn't say "come into the light".  It says "walk in the light".  It's not a destination, it's a journey.  Sometimes we convince ourselves it's easier to hide in the darkness.  But when we walk in the light, there's nothing to hide.  I picture Jesus reaching out his hand and saying, "don't live in the darkness, instead, come walk with me".

How would you describe what it means to walk in the light?

In recent years, the nation of Egypt has had some challenges.  There has been violence, political upheaval and social unrest.  Some of that violence has been directed at Christians...against the church.  But how do you define "the church"?  As I understand it, there is much division in the Christian church in Egypt.  The Wesleyan Church has a strong presence there.  In fact, some of my family have served in Egypt.  There is also the Coptic Church.  And of course there are many others.  I remember a few years ago hearing a Christian brother from Egypt talking about what was happening in his country.  A positive result of the persecution taking place was that walls were breaking down between the different Christian churches.  When persecutors came, they didn't care if you labelled yourself as Wesleyan or Coptic.  They labelled you as a follower of Christ.  And in that simple declaration, there was unity.  "I am a follower of Christ".

I believe personally, and as the pastor of our church, in participating in the capital "C" church.  And I have tried to live this value out.  That's why I have put priority on praying with other pastors.  That's why I participate in things like the Good Friday Gathering that's coming soon.  I believe it's important.  Do you?  Some do not.  After all, different churches and different denominations can be quite different.  And let's face it, we often think they're wrong and we're right.  But we read scripture like this one below and I believe it applies to us in our church, but also to the broader church.

"Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind" (Philippians 2:1-2, NIV).

The uniting factor is our relationship with Jesus Christ.  If you, or your church, exalts the Lord Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the only Saviour of the world, I can join hands in Christian fellowship with you.  If you, or your church does not, then I pray you would.  God is still teaching me all that these verses mean, but I have experienced the Christian fellowship between me and another, despite our deep theological differences.  We share a like-mindedness and have the same love, because Christ unites us.

So in a practical sense, what do I believe this means.

This Means:
1. We are not alone.  We are part of a movement of God across our city and world.  We can celebrate, pray and dream together.
2. Unbelievers see our division and separation..and they are confused.  God blesses us when we intentionally come together.  
3. Strong local churches make up a stronger capital "C" church.  God has called us with our unique history, location, gifting, etc...to reach who He has called us to reach.  We make no apologies for working at being a healthy local church.  Our focus is here, but our heart is for all local churches to be strong.
4. Coming together makes us stronger.  When we come together it makes us stronger, not weaker.  And it is a powerful testimony to our community, and a reflection of being united with Christ.

Of course, much more can be said, and perhaps you have more questions about what it means to associate with other churches in our community.  My responsibility (practically, spiritually, relationally, etc...) is primarily to our church, Laurentian Wesleyan.  But I believe it is important for me, for us and for you to be connected to the broader capital "C" Church.  I don't always get the balance right, and I ask for your grace and for your prayer.  But I do believe we're stronger together.

-Jason

Tonight we have our church board meeting, and thought I would share with you the devotional thought I've prepared.

​2 Corinthians 5:13-14 says, “The trumpeters and musicians joined in unison to give praise and thanks to the LORD. Accompanied by trumpets, cymbals and other instruments, the singers raised their voices in praise to the LORD and sang:
     ‘He is good;
     his love endures forever.’
Then the temple of the LORD was filled with the cloud, and the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the temple of God.”

Besides the trumpets being present (I mean, who wouldn’t worship…ha), this is a favourite passage.  I hope you would join me in desiring God’s glory to be present in our church in such a tangible way.  There is power in the presence of God.  I like how the new song “In Your Presence” by Jesus Culture put it,

This room is alive in your majesty
Our city revived in your mercy
Your Son glorified
Our arms open wide
Singing worthy
You are worthy

Although I hesitate to use this passage as a formula; God can show up when He chooses to show up; I do believe there are things we can learn from this scripture.

Preparation.
I can’t imagine that all the singers and musicians just showed up that day.  I think they prepared.  The musicians and singers prepared their instruments and voices, but I think the people prepared spiritually too, in anticipation of what God would do.
Focus.
God was the focus of this gathering.  He is good.  His love endures forever.  It wasn't about them.
Expectancy.
The people were waiting to see what would happen, expecting God to show up in some way.  Do I approach worship in the same way?
Power.
The manifest presence of God showed up.  Manifest means “clear or obvious to the eye or mind”.  No denying it.  That's what happens when God's glory shows up in power.

There are many important discussions and practices that take place in a church, but nothing is more important than seeking after God.

In case you're not a trumpet player, how will you get ready for God to show up? :)

Before we answer the title question, let me ask another one.  How often do you use your good dishes?  If you're like Chrissy and I, not much.  They look nice.  We've got lots of them.  They have sentimental meaning.  But they aren't our everyday dishes.  They're for special occasions.

In some families, when the good dishes come out, there can be some stress attached.
"What if someone breaks one?"
"What if they find their way into the dishwasher?"
"They might get chipped or dropped!"
And so naturally, they stay on the shelf most of the time.

How can the difference between good and everyday dishes help us in our spiritual lives?  I heard Carey Nieuwhof talk about this (yes, I know I've talked a lot about him lately, but he's got some great, helpful stuff).  Sometimes in our homes, we treat God like He's the good dishes?  We rarely "bring Him out" and when we do we're afraid something will break.  In a Christian family, this isn't how we should treat God.  He should be more like our everyday dishes.  Constantly a part of the day.  Frequently "brought out".  No fear of the conversation "breaking" (God can look out for Himself after all).  I'm reminded of this scripture; "Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful."  Joshua 1:8, NIV.  I sometimes read this verse, and get thrown off by that word meditate, or the "day and night" phrase.  It sounds like a lot of work sometimes.  I mean, who meditates?  And I'll admit, I've been around Christians that sometimes force God into the conversation and it leaves a bad taste in my mouth.  I don't find unnaturally forcing God into the conversation particularly helpful.  I don't want my faith to be viewed like author Rosaria Butterfield observed of Christians (before becoming one...great story by the way!), "Christians in particular were bad readers, always seizing opportunities to insert a Bible verse into a conversation with the same point as a punctuation mark: to end it rather than deepen it."  God wants to deepen our life.  His Word makes a difference.  Let's make Him an integral part of our everyday, not just for special occasions.  Let's have His Word in our hearts that it can't help but flow into our day naturally.

So, how normal is "God-Talk" in your home?  Well, only you can answer that.

Resources to check out:
Parenting Beyond Your Capacity by Carey Nieuwhof
The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert by Rosaria Butterfield