http://www.ynccla.org/ Young Nak Celebration Church - Blogs en webadmin@ynccla.org Copyright 2009 Young Nak Celebration Church 2009-05-29T16:10:01-08:00 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/sacred_space_todays_entry/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/sacred_space_todays_entry/ Sacred Space is one of my favorite online “devotionals.” It helps me slow down into the awareness of God’s loving presence.  Then I can be grounded in God’s living word.  Below is today’s entry.  I encourage you to check out the website when you have 5 - 10 minutes. Lord, help me to be fully alive to your holy presence. Enfold me in your love. Let my heart become one with yours. - Lord, may I never take the gift of freedom for granted. You gave me the great blessing of freedom of spirit. Fill my spirit with Your peace and Your joy. - I remind myself that I am in the presence of the Lord. I will take refuge in His loving heart. He is my strength in times of weakness. He is my comforter in times of sorrow. - John 21:15-19 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.” (He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, “Follow me.” Help me, Lord, to notice how you are speaking to me. - Sometimes I wonder what I might say if I were to meet you in person Lord. I think I might say “Thank You Lord” for always being there for me. I know with certainty there were times when you carried me, Lord, when it was through your strength I got through the dark times in my life. - Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. May 29, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/pre_engagement_class/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/pre_engagement_class/ Would you attend a class that addresses relationship education and skills in a dating relationship? Over the past few years at least one person (dating couple) has approached me each year asking if they can take the pre-marital class if they are dating.  At that point we didn’t have a class for them.  But, this month 2-3 people (who are in a dating relationship) asked me of YNCC has a class for dating couples, a sort of pre-engagement class.  I took that as the Spirit’s nudge to provide a class for people of YNCC. I’d like to ask a few questions. - If you were to take the class what would you hope to learn? - How long would you want the class to be? Looking forward to your comments and questions. May 28, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/staying_calm_some_love_and_logic_tips/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/staying_calm_some_love_and_logic_tips/ Hello YNCC Blog readers, I read a variety of parenting and marriage books, articles, and web sites.  Love and Logic is a sound parenting website.  From my own personal parenting experience as well as listening to parents come to me for wisdom I see the ability to stay calm and centered (in Christ) is a key skill in parenting (and in any relationship).  I thought these 3 points are excellent ways to begin to make a habit of remaining calm in chaotic situations.  Please share your thoughts in the comments section. Warmly, John Loppnow Avoiding frustration, anger, lectures, and other ineffective parenting practices is no simple task in today’s hectic world. Fortunately, the following steps can help us “brainwash” ourselves into staying cool in hot situations: Step #1: Create one calming self-statement. Everyone needs a calming thought to carry with them as they navigate this not-so-calm world. Listed below are some examples: Anger makes it worse. Anger and frustration feed misbehavior. Frustration fuels the fire. Empathy instead of anger. My kids will someday select my nursing home. Step #2: Post your statement where you’ll see it often. The more often you see your statement, the more likely it will pop into your head when your kids are getting on your last nerve. It’s great for them to see them it too! Step #3: Visualize yourself staying calm and using your statement. Each night as you are falling asleep, imagine yourself in a tough parenting situation with your children…and handling it without breaking a sweat! Thanks for reading! Dr. Charles Fay http://www.loveandlogic.com/ May 27, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/appreciate_admire_premarital_class/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/appreciate_admire_premarital_class/ Here at YNCC we want to do whatever it takes so that people have the kind of marriage that God dreams of.  In my first class I teach both knowledge and skills that enable people to have a loving marriage.  The kind of marriage the advertises God’s love to one another and to our neighbor. The first skill I teach couples is called Appreciation + Admiration.  It is a skill built upon God’s word and Phil 4:8 is one passage that reflects this truth. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Gratitude for the greatest gifts in life (our spouses) is something that should overflow in our lives.  This skill A+A (appreciation + admiration) is a practical way to live out the truth of this verse in our lives.  Not only does scripture call us to love our spouses.  This is one practical way we can proactively do this. To Appreciate one another is to verbally recognize something that they have said or done that was positive/pleasant. “Honey, I appreciate that helped fold the laundry last night.  It really helped me out and let me know you care.” “I appreciate you paying the bills this past weekend.” To Admire one another is to verbally recognize a quality in our partner that is positive. “I really admire how diligent you are in whatever you are working on.  You always follow through until it is done with excellence.” “I admire how encouraging you are.  Not only to me, but to others.  You genuinely see the best in people.” “I admire how forgiving and gracious you are.  I have experienced it and I see that you hold no grudges towards people.  I want to grow in this.” We need to find ways of building up one another.  Your spouse is made in the image of God and is God’s gift to you.  Find a way to recognize how they reflect the image of God and let them know.  Its not meaningful if it stays in your mind and your partner isn’t aware of what you hold in your heart. So, I encourage you to appreciate and admire your spouse.  You can also appreciate and admire your parents, family members, church members and even people you work with.  All people are made in the image of God.  Look for what you can appreciate and admire. Blessings as you seek to love God and love your neighbor. March 29, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/fasting1/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/fasting1/ I’ve been learning about what the Bible reveals about fasting from one of my favorite authors Scot McKnight.  His book Fasting provokes not only my thinking but also me to actually fast. Here is how he defines fasting. Fasting is the natural, inevitable response of a person to a grievous sacred moment in life. Here are some more quotes from the book that might draw out more ideas from his definition. Does it bring results?  Yes, but that’s not the point of fasting. Which leads us to see fasting in an A -> B -> C framework.  If one wants to see the full Christian understanding of fasting, one must begin with (A), the grievous sacred moment.  That sacred moment generates a response (B), in this case fasting.  Only then, only when the sacred moment is given its full power does the response of fasting generate the results (C)—and then not always, if truth be told. Fasting isn’t a manipulative tool that guarantees results.  Fasting is a response to a sacred moment, not an instrument designed to get desired results.  A Sacred Moment Death Sin Fear Threats Needs Sickness B Fasting Responsive Fasting C Results Life Forgiveness Safety Hope Answers Health Those who are most moved by sacred moments find themselves fasting and, because they are in tune with what God is doing in this world in those grievous sacred moments, they may discover desired results. What McKnight presents has really encouraged me to look for the sacred moments and to respond with my whole being.  He calls it body talk (more on that later).  I feel free to respond with to a sacred moment.  Personally, I felt uncomfortable with doing something in order to get something from God.  For me, I can respond genuinely. I hope this encourages you to respond to the sacred moments in your life.  If I may I would encourage you to consider the sacred moment we are in as a church with the launching of Olive site.  Maybe we could fast as a community. Blessings to you. March 29, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/a_prayer_of_st_patrick/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/a_prayer_of_st_patrick/ Christ be with me, Christ within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ beside me, Christ to win me, Christ to comfort and restore me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ in quiet, Christ in danger, Christ in hearts of all that love me, Christ in mouth of friend and stranger. I bind unto myself the name, The strong name of the Trinity; By invocation of the same. The Three in One, and One in Three, Of whom all nature hath creation, Eternal Father, Spirit, Word: Praise to the Lord of my salvation, salvation is of Christ the Lord. March 17, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/premarital_class_welcome/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/premarital_class_welcome/ The Marriage & Family Ministry welcomes the latest premarital class to the 2nd Quarter of YNCC’s Pathway’s classes.  The instructors are: John Loppnow, Elder Michael Hong + (Deacon-elect) Kathleen Hong. This is the first time there will be blog entries related to the premarital class.  My hope is that we can become a learning community.  Those who are in the class as well as those who want to learn about marriage who are a part of the YNCC community. In starting the class I’ll be sharing a few questions with the class.  First, I’ll have them jot down some of their thoughts then we can dialogue about them together.  Here they are: What knowledge + skills do you think are necessary for a great marriage? What is the #1 enemy of good relationships? Anger is…. Listening is…. God’s dream for marriage is… List a few passages of scripture that you think are pertinent to having a good marriage: In preparing for my marriage I hope to learn…. March 15, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/what_are_you_fasting_for_lent_taken_from_the_batterson_blog/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/what_are_you_fasting_for_lent_taken_from_the_batterson_blog/ Hello YNCC blog readers, I read all kinds of blogs from pastors, church leaders and great thinkers.  I’m posting a blog entry from Mark Batterson.  He is a pastor in Washington D.C.  The reason I’m posting it is because I feel that I can’t improve on its simplicity for the coming LENT.  And I realize that many of us at YNCC don’t participate that much in preparing our hearts for Easter.  That is the main purpose of Lent.  I hope this entry encourages you to prayerfully consider how you can participate in this year’s Lent. Much love to you all, John What are you fasting for Lent? I have a goal-oriented personality. Without goals I’m no good. So I try to leverage things like birthdays and New Years and Lent and Pentecost to set new spiritual goals or reestablish some God habits. A few years ago I started observing Lent and it’s made Easter so much more meaningful. Can’t wait for Ash Wednesday. Here’s an equation: -++=x. Translation: subtraction plus addition equals multiplication. What do you need to subtract from you life? It might be a bad habit or waste of time or something that is permissible but not beneficial. Last year I gave up television for forty days. This year I’m giving up soda and candy. I know that doesn’t sound super spiritual, but if you knew how much I love vanilla coke and gummy bears… What do you need to add to your life? You can’t just subtract something. You’ve got to add something to your spiritual routine. I’m going to add an hour to my day. How? I’m setting my alarm clock an hour earlier than I normally do. I want to give God more of my most precious resource: time. I’m believing that subtraction and addition will result in multiplication. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever been filled with more holy anticipation about what God is doing in my life and the life of National Community Church. But I’m believing Him for greater things! I want Him to multiply what He is already doing! Question: what are you subtracting or adding for Lent? February 25, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/definition_of_an_idol/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/definition_of_an_idol/ “To whatever we look for any good thing and for refuge in every need, that is what is meant by ‘god.’ To have a god is nothing else than to trust and believe in him from the heart.... To whatever you give your heart and entrust your being, that, I say, is really your god.” - Martin Luther This past Saturday I did some training with the OD elects.  OD stands for Ordained Deacon.  One area I covered was the area of conflict.  In one of the best books on peacemaking and dealing with conflict is The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict.  Author, Ken Sande, talks about the progression of an idol.  [For more info about the Peacemaker Ministry go here.] I Desire - Conflict always begins with some kind of desire.  Some good, some bad.  An unmet desire. I Demand – I want becomes “I must have” I Judge - When fail to satisfy our desires and live up to our expectations, we criticize and condemn in our hearts if not with our words. I Punish - Idols always demand sacrifices.  Sharp words, withdrawl, etc. One of the OD elects says that they enjoy conflict.  Or, that conflict is good.  What do you think?  What is your initial thought? This person’s point is that getting things on the table for an open and honest discussion is good.  And I agree with that. There is a point when conflict can be destructive.  And it is when our wants become a “must have,” and at that point we most likely have an idol in our life. If we do actually have an idol, what should we do? Well, let me ask you.  What is the appropriate response to an idol in our lives? I leave you with that question.  Ponder it.  Ask God for his wisdom.  Ask him to point out any idols you may have.  (Most likely we all have at least one and probably more.  What should we do with them?) February 24, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/rules_for_couples_conflict_taken_from_smalley_relationship_center/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/rules_for_couples_conflict_taken_from_smalley_relationship_center/ As someone who coaches people in relationship skills I recognize that most people, including couples, do not have a thought through way of dealing with conflict.  This website (Smalley Relationship Center) is a great site.  I recommend all readers to read it and incorporate it in their lives. Rules for Couples’ Conflict 01/13/03 http://www.smalleyonline.com/articles/m_rulesforcouplesconflict.html 1. Clearly define the problem. Clarify what the actual conflict is first. Then, see if there is any other reason this conflict is here. (Prov. 13:10; 18:13; 22:3) 2. Quickly acknowledged the problem soon after the mistake and try to resolve it. Don’t hope the problem will just go away. (Prov. 27:23) 3. Encourage your mate to explain and respond. Use active listening. Repeat to the other person what you heard them say. Get their agreement about what you heard them say before responding (vice-versa). Learn to listen! (Prov. 14:33; 24:3-4) 4. Discuss only one thing at a time and stay in the present. Don’t dredge up past hurts or problems, whether real or perceived. Avoiding score keeping. “You are late for dinner. I feel angry. I wanted everything to be warm and tasty.” Rather than “You are late for dinner as usual. I remember when “, etc. (Prov. 19:10; 103:12) 5. Don’t argue about details, e.g. “You were 20 min. late,” “No, I was only 13 min. late.” 6. Avoid power statements and actions. For example: “I quit!” “You’re killing me.”, etc. (Prov. 17:27; 26:21; 28:16,25; II Tim. 2:7) 7. Avoid judgment words like “you statements”. Stay with self-responsible “I” messages. (Matt. 7:1) 8. Be honest in your statements and questions. Honesty needs to be accurate, rather than agreement or perfection. (Eph. 4:15; Prov. 12:19) 9. Don’t confront when you’re angry or stressed out (cool your jets). Learn to identify your body’s own natural signs when you’re getting angry, stressed out, overloaded, or about to shut down. 10. Never walk out without agreeing to take a break. It is okay to temporally stop when a solution is unclear. However, agree to resume the discussion when your emotions have cooled off. (Eph. 4:26; Prov. 11:14) 11. Don’t use the silent treatment. Nothing gets solved this way. (Prov. 3:27; 16:13,21,24) 12. Never threaten to withdraw love. (Prov. 28:25; 29:23) 13. Control your hands and tongue. Never use sarcasm or physical violence. (Prov. 15:4; 12:18; 29:2-3; 16:13) 14. Don’t use “hysterical” statements or exaggerations at the time of conflict. (Prov. 29:11; 16:21,24) 15. Select an appropriate time and place. Don’t make a scene. Never deliberately embarrass each other or others by arguing in public. Keep your arguments in private. Perhaps even away from siblings if necessary.(Prov. 15:23; Prov. 25:11) 16. Don’t drag in outsiders unless each member agrees that this person can help find a solution or help referee. The person needs to be someone who can maintain unbiased opinion and someone who everyone respects and feels safe with. (Prov. 1:5; 12:15; 19:20; 20:18; 27:9) 17. Surround criticism with encouragement (praise bombardment). Focus on your desired expectations or positive changes rather than on faults. (Prov. 15:1; Prov. 15:13) 18. Speak directly and personally to your mate. Avoid lecturing and stay with concrete specific behavioral detail(s). (Prov. 18:23) 19. Put yourself in your mate’s shoes. 20. Don’t compare your mate to others. Be aware of each others differences and accept them (lion, otter, beaver, and golden retriever). (Prov. 22:6) 21. Give value and consideration to the interests, goals, and desires of each person. (Prov. 29:7) 22. When you’re wrong admit it. Accept any blame for the past (Was the rule clearly defined? Was it written down? Was there miscommunication?, etc.). Identify your own contribution to the problem. (Prov. 28:13; 29:23) 23. Resolve your conflicts with “Win-Win” solutions. Both agree with the solution or outcome of the argument. 24. Forgive your mate and do not hold resentment. End a fight with an act of love. (Col. 3:12-13; I Peter 3:8-9) 25. Above all, strive to reflect HONOR in all of your words or actions during a conflict. (Romans 12:10; 2:3) 26. Make conflict resolution a regular habit. (Prov. 13:24) © Copyright 2003 Smalley Relationship Center February 18, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/fasting/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/fasting/ What did you learn about fasting growing up? How much do you fast? What does the bible say about fasting? Did Jesus fast? Ok, just trying to stir the pot of thoughts to see what kind of response the blog can get.  I’m asking about fasting because I recently picked up a new book by one of my favorite authors.  But, first I wanted to see what our community understands or thinks about fasting.  In terms of learning I think its great to start where people are and then move to a new place. Please share. Pastors February 18, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_30/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_30/ Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13 God is Love Any act of God is done in love. It must be as Scripture tells us – that “God is love” (1 John 4:16). God not only performs loving acts, but who He is is love. His entire being is love and is loving. This is our creator and the one whose image we reflect. And when we reflect something other than love, we are a broken and poor image of Him.  We must find a way to remain connected to the loving heart of the Father. I believe the only way we will be able to live out the greatest commands – “Love God and love our neighbor as ourselves” (Matthew 22:36-40) – is to continually experience this powerful love of God. And the only way I know how to do this is to believe, no matter what I may be feeling at the moment, that He is true to His revealed word and that everything He does is love. I know that in our culture we throw around the word love very easily: “I love chocolate,” “I love the beach,” “I love you,” “I love God.” So, we must return to the essence of what true love is. I encourage all of us to meditate (even memorize) on 1 Cor. 13. Use this as the true definition of love and know that this is how God loves us. The way that love is defined in this passage is true about God’s posture and action towards us. Meditating upon this revealed truth gives me the hope to go beyond myself in order to love God and others, even those who curse me (Luke 6:27-28). Read the Scripture two to three times and allow it to sink in. Prayerfully discern which aspect of God’s love is most challenging for you to receive (patience, even temperament, etc.) and chew (meditate) upon that all day today believing that this is God’s posture towards you no matter what emotion or disposition you may be currently experiencing. God loves you! And He wants you to live out this love. PRAYER FOCUS: YNCC Community Pray that, as a community of faith, we will continue to live out God’s love in a very tangible way wherever we are because God first loved us. Pray that through the love of God, we will continue to be missional in our lifestyle wherever we are. KI Devotional February 16, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_29/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_29/ Scripture: Psalm 66 How Awesome Is God’s Work! Vs 5-7 What are some of awesome works of God you have noticed and seen this past month, both in your life and in the lives of others? What have you heard? Vs 8-12 What are some of challenges & hardships you might have gone through (trial, testing, net, crushing burden, fire and water, etc.)? Have you experienced God’s deliverance to a place of abundance yet? If not, is this your hope in Him? Vs 13-19 What would you be your response? To God and to others? Shout for joy to God, all the earth; Sing the glory of his name; Give to him glorious praise! Say to God, “How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies come cringing to you. All the earth worships you And sings praises to you; They sing praises to your name.” PRAYER FOCUS: International Students Today in the United States, there are over 700,000 international students attending our colleges and universities, of which 60% come from nations with restricted access to the Gospel. They are the future leaders of their countries, and it’s safe to say, right now one fourth to one half of the future leaders of the world are on American campuses. Pray that they will enjoy new friendships and that they will encounter the message of the Gospel clearly declared and lovingly demonstrated. Pray for an opportunity to reach out to international students and other visitors (workers and business people) around you. KI Devotional February 15, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_28/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_28/ Scripture: Haggai 2:10-23 A Call to Holiness In this passage, God instructed Haggai to ask the priests questions about transmitting holiness and defilement, as ceremonial uncleanness was passed on much more readily than holiness. The Lord’s point: Even though the people were back in the Holy Land, it did not automatically make them pure. They needed to obey God, and follow Him wholeheartedly with their being and doing. It is easy for the church today to bring our sacrifices, be it our verbal worship, our material contribution, or our time and abilities in services, and yet be walking in disobedience. We oftentimes walk in disobedience due to a heart that is disengaged from God or a pattern of life contrary to His desires. Externally we might display an action of obedience, but in a deep inner being, we might be too far away from the Father’s heart. God desires our heart to be set aside for Him. He wants our lives to be set apart for Him. That’s what holiness is about – being set apart for God. Not through the motions, but through our heart and being.  Furthermore, what God wants is a person who is broken enough to be at His feet, constantly engaging with God in a humble spirit. “This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word.”(Isa 66:2) Only then, we will be able to walk toward the life of holiness. Why are you doing what you are doing today? Why are you doing what you are doing the way you are doing it? Is this out of your holy devotion, complete, undivided devotion for the Lord? Give a careful thought to this from this day on. PRAYER FOCUS: Women Migrant Day Laborers Roughly 35% of an estimated 11 million illegal immigrants in the U.S. are adult women, according to a 2006 analysis by the Pew Hispanic Center, and about 17% of the cleaning industry is made up of undocumented immigrants. Pray that they will be protected from unjust treatment and honored in their workplace, as well as find a way to establish a home. KI Devotional February 14, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_27/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_27/ Scripture: Haggai 2:1-9 A Call to His Presence About a month into the work of rebuilding the temple, the Israelites began to see the frame of the temple, which seemed to be nothing compared to the previous temple Solomon had built. Obviously, disappointment and discouragement ensued. But the Lord appeared and assured His people once again. “Be strong for I am with you. Do not fear, for I am about to bring a greater glory in this present house than the former one.” Often we gain encouragement when we see God’s work amongst us. When we see God at work, our spirits become lifted. When we see people coming to know the Lord, when we witness changed lives, when we encounter forgiveness and reconciliation in relationships, we get encouraged. But here, God’s encouragement comes in the promise of His presence—“I am with you.”— despite of what we see or do not see with our eyes. So be strong and continue to work. Do not fear for what might come or not come about, for I am with you. The promise of my indwelling presence with you now is the promise for the future glory that you’ve never seen before. My Spirit remains among you. So do not fear. Be strong, continue to walk. It is an invitation to walk by faith, not by sight. How often we search for visible signs of God’s presence through His works… How often we equate God’s presence with tangible results among people. How we fail to acknowledge His presence, for which promises the glory of His house. Lord, help us to walk by faith, not by sight. Help us to sustain consciousness of Your abiding presence with us throughout our days and weeks, whether we see any result or not. May Your presence be the strength of our lives! PRAYER FOCUS: Kyrgyzstan Praise God for the growth of the Kyrgyz Church from 20 believers in 1990 to 4,000 in 2000. Pray that there will be continued religious freedom in this nation and that this unprecedented opportunity to believe in Jesus Christ would continue to reap a harvest. Pray that the barriers to faith – history, cultural Islam, and spiritism – would be broken down. Pray also regarding the poor economic situation that affects and depresses all levels of Kyrgyz society. In 2008, the country began to ration electricity to 14 hours a day for all. Pray for the five Young Nak families who live and minister in this country. KI Devotional February 13, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_26/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_26/ Scripture: Haggai 1:12-15 A Call to Surrender This short passage describes how the people of Israel responded to God’s call to rebuild the house of the Lord – by immediate obedience. I am encouraged by the fact that the leaders (Zerubbabel and Joshua) and the remnant of the people obeyed what they had heard from God and began to fear Him by worshiping in reverence (v. 12). However, what encourages me more is that it was not initiated by Israelites, but by the work of the Spirit. God’s presence, the Spirit of God, was the one who stirred the spirits of leaders and people to obey! Often in doing God’s work, it’s so easy for us to think that it’s “my” obedience that brought the fruit and impact for the Kingdom. Even in the act of submitting and obeying, human nature has us pointing to “I,” “me,” “my,” and “myself”; that “I” am the one who did it. “I” am the one who obeys, sacrifices, works hard, builds, and on and on. Yes, it is true. “I” am a part of it. However, when you look at things carefully, soon you will realize that it is God, the Spirit of God, who gives us the motivation and the power to do God’s will. We can’t do it without the Holy Spirit. Paul talks about this in Romans 7-8. His nature or disposition had formed anew as a Christian and he wanted to do what was right, but he couldn’t. Paul uses the word “I” 24 times in Romans 7:15-25 as he discusses his failure, but in chapter 8 he uses the word “Spirit” 13 times as he discusses victorious living. Our natural tendency is to try to do it on our own, but we can’t. Victory only comes when we depend on the Spirit to do it. How has the Kingdom Impact been for you? Yes, we do need to play a part. However, it’s all about God, His Spirit, His Glory, and His Kingdom. And we are the ones who are invited to join Him in this glorious journey and venture! Lord, thank you for inviting us to join You. Thank you for enabling us to respond to You and experience Your Spirit at work through us. Thank you for being with us – being present with us – as we act in surrender to Your Spirit. PRAYER FOCUS: Missionary Kids (MKs) Pray for the MKs who followed their parents to the mission field, that they may grow in love for God, passionate for God’s heart, and for His people. Pray also for those who are ministering to MKs, for wisdom and grace as they meet the specific needs of MKs. Young Nak currently has six missionary units working for the MK ministry around the world. KI Devotional February 12, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_25/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_25/ Scripture: Haggai 1:1-11 A Call to Consider Your Ways When the Jews returned to Israel from Babylon in 538 BC, they began immediately to rebuild God’s temple (Ezra 3). But soon, they were discouraged by opposition and concluded in their mind, “the time has not yet come to rebuild the house of the Lord.” To this group of people, God sent the prophet Haggai, challenging, “Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins?” (v. 4) It is true that the Israelites were battling for survival: politically weak, threatened by neighbors, facing droughts and failing harvest. Thus, the temptation of neglecting God’s house was pressing upon them. “It’s not time yet” seemed to be a reasonable remark. That’s the story we hear over and over again: “Let me survive first. Let me finish my schooling first. It’s not time yet, I need to get my career settled first. And then, I shall work on rebuilding the house of the Lord. Then, I shall see what I can do in extending God’s Kingdom. It’s not time yet.” To this mindset, God speaks: Consider your ways. Give a careful thought. See what is the result of this mindset (v. 6). We may not worry about a famine of food, like the people of Israel here, but we might struggle with a lack of job, a directionless or meaningless life, or a spiritual drought. And often this can become an opportunity to listen to God’s challenges to the ways of our life; to re-examine our priorities – what concerns us, what occupies our thoughts and time. What are you concerned about these days? Where do you spend most of your time? What are the most important issues in our fellowship of believers? Does this concern enhance God’s pleasure and give Him glory? Lord Jesus, help us to consider our ways, to see if we have the priorities upside down, if we are busy building a paneled house for ourselves, while Your house, Your glory and honor are left unattended. PRAYER FOCUS: Vietnam Praise God that the repression of Communist rule has not served to stamp out Christianity in Vietnam, but rather strengthened the Church and spread a large-scale and sustained turning to God. However, repression of all types of freedom continues. Persecution of Christians and denial of access for Christian agencies have recently grown worse. Pray also for the northern minorities of Vietnam who have no known believers. KI Devotional February 11, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_24/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_24/ Scripture: Luke 15:1-32 The Father’s Heart The father’s heart is terribly broken by the younger son and he endures great shame in the village when this son says, “I wish you were dead, so I can get my hands on my portion of the inheritance!” When this son renders to cash in all the land, buildings, and livestock, the villagers and relatives must have been enraged as, overnight, they lose their source of livelihood and income. It is such a contrast to the kinsman-redeemer story of Boaz (Ruth 4:1-12). After squandering everything, the younger son returns to the father. If the villagers/relatives get to this son first, he is sure to be stoned by everyone (Deut. 21:18-21). The compassionate father, however, wants to go and save him before the villagers kill him. To run fast, he must lift his long multiple-layered robe, exposing his legs to his own unthinkable shame and to everyone’s great chagrin and dismay (like the story of David and Michal in 2 Sam. 6:12-21). The father embraces the dirty and unclean son, kissing him again and again. He puts his best robe on him and sandals on his feet, restoring his dignity and sonship. He then throws a great feast of celebration. The father’s heart is broken even more by the older son, who remains silent when his younger brother wishes their father dead. When the father divides his inheritance to his sons, this older son does not protest and try to defend the father’s honor. There’s no righteous indignation, but rather a silent opportunistic acceptance of his double portion as the eldest son. This son didn’t leave the father’s land physically, but he was surely long gone from the father’s heart emotionally and in every imaginable way possible. This son never does return to the father, even when the father stops in the middle of a celebration and goes outside to try to reach out to him. This son, who is now a village elder (a presbyteros, v. 25), has the responsibility to maintain the custom and values of the village life. Rather than yielding to the compassionate heart of the father, the older son (Pharisees and scribes, v. 2) chooses to uphold the tradition by crucifying “the compassionate father” on the cross a few days later. Father, how costly it is to have the Father’s heart. Yet, I desperately want to be more like you and cultivate this heart of compassion for both the younger sons and older sons of this world. PRAYER FOCUS: Prisoners and Their Families Pray that prisoners will hear the Gospel and follow Jesus; for fellowships of believers to multiply in prisons. Pray for their families to be protected and provided for and honored rightly. Also pray that released prisoners will find strength and wisdom to live restored, abundant lives. KI Devotional February 10, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_23/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_23/ Scripture: Micah 6:6-8 A Prayer of Response Lord, you want me to “act justly and to love mercy.” You want me to consider others no matter who they are or what they do. You want me to pursue justice and mercy wherever you put me. Yet, there is no way that I can do this all the time on my own strength! That’s the whole point, isn’t it? Not on my own strength, but to draw from Your Justice, Love, and Power, and get that habit going. To walk humbly with your God – that’s the key, oh Lord. Without walking humbly there is no way of being in your presence. How many times have you said that you hate a proud heart? I see that a proud heart can’t possibly acknowledge you or accept you as God of my life. A proud heart can’t allow me to release control of my self-centeredness. Only by giving you authority while I’m in the posture of humility can that happen! Thank you, Lord, for these lessons. Thank you for the repetitive reminders in Scripture that allow us to come to grips with each truth. PRAYER FOCUS: Uzbekistan Although the fall of the Soviet Union has meant an independent Uzbekistan in Central Asia, independence has not brought freedom for Uzbekistan. People are disillusioned while the government is resistant to change and reform. Furthermore, different ideologies (radical Islamism, occultism, and sects) are seeking to enslave the Uzbeks. Pray that this nation might find freedom in serving the true Lord, their Creator. Pray also for the Uzbek Christian leaders, after the majority of foreign Christian workers were expelled from the country in the last few years, that they will be able to lead the church in God-honoring ways, and find a method of equipping and training the Uzbeks. KI Devotional February 9, 2009 http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_22/ http://www.ynccla.org/blogs/day_22/ Scripture: Acts 12:1-17 A Praying Community that Includes You “The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” (James 5:16b) Often I wonder if my prayer is working, if it has power to change, and whether God will answer my prayer or not. Although I know the truth is that God answers our prayers, I often feel – in fact, I am deceived – that God only answers the prayer of the righteous and holy but not mine, a prayer of an ordinary person. The story in the above passage reveals a great truth about prayer: “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for Him.” (v. 5) As the community of faith – the church – gathers together and prays, God answers. Prayer is effective. Consider Peter’s experience in prison: Double chains, soldiers, iron gates – all gave way to the power of prayer. The power of the Roman Empire was nothing compared to the community in prayer. And in this community of prayer, we find Rhoda, a little servant girl. While being perhaps the least among all gathered, Rhoda delightfully became the first one to welcome the answer to their prayer. The truth is that Rhoda, a little servant girl, was a righteous one. And her righteousness came through the blood of Jesus. She was made righteous not according to her merits and deeds, but according to what Jesus has done, and her faith in Him. And her prayers had great power and effectiveness because of Jesus. Have you ever felt like I have – little and small and not sure of the power of your prayer? Know that you are righteous, your prayers have great power, and you’re part of the praying community of YNCC. Aren’t you? PRAYER FOCUS: AIDS AIDS has killed more than 25 million people since 1981. In 2005, 10 people were newly infected with HIV worldwide every minute. There are 40.3 million living with HIV/AIDS worldwide, one-third of which are between the ages of 15-24; 43% of those infected with HIV are women; Africa has 12 million AIDS orphans. Pray that God will intervene against this epidemic. Pray that God will inspire new teachers of the Bible to confront the causes of AIDS to bring about personal and social transformation. Also, pray that churches will send out laborers of compassion and love to AIDS orphans and children infected with HIV. KI Devotional February 8, 2009