Doorframes of TaterHouse

Goodbye Blogger, Hello Wordpress

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 11:30:00 +0000

Today, I am saying goodbye to blogger and also to the Doorframes of Taterhouse.

It has been a good time here for the past two and half years but it is time to start anew over on a brand new WordPress blog. Back in February I was lucky enough to win one year of hosting from New Blog Hosting, a free domain name registration, and a StandardTheme lisence in the No More Blogger Giveaway. All of that was thanks to Peter Pollock, Katdish, and John Saddington (TentBlogger).

With my winnings I've started my brand new WordPress blog with a new direction and a new blog name:

The Compelling Parade - http://compellingparade.com

Because I was essentially "given" all this for free, I want to give back. Over the next few weeks I am doing a series of giveaways. Keep your eyes open for book giveaways, a blog hosting giveaway, and a signed self portrait giveaway. Okay, no self portrait.
Head on over to the new location and be sure to subscribe to the new feed by clicking on the RSS icon - or you can grab the feed right here from Feedburner.
Be sure to read the About page and the meaning behind the name of the blog, The Compelling Parde.
Since I'm new to WordPress I need your help. I have a few questions written out over on the new blog seeking all your WordPress advice and tips.

Thank you for reading my virtual doorframes, being a part of this online community, and taking the time to check out the new blog - I really appreciate it. Looking forward to what lies ahead.

Thanks,

Ryan

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You are the greatest

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0000

You are the greatest reminder.

You are the greatest catalyst for change.

You are the greatest mouthpiece for the gospel.

You are the greatest example of faith.

You are the greatest source of hope.

You are the greatest profession of love.

But none of that matters if it's all about you.

You must become less.

(John 3:30)

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Mere Christianity, chapter 4

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:00:00 +0000

This is the part of our book club discussion on Chapter 4 of Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. We are taking a sentence, paragraph, or passage that inspires, encourages, or challenges and writing about it. Head over to Jason Stasyszen's blog for all the other perspectives on chapter 4. Whether you've read the chapter or not, please share your thoughts.

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C.S. Lewis has been building quite a crescendo in these first four chapters.

He started off with stating there are two fundamental points – simply put that there is a moral law and we break it. Then he went on to explain that people will try to explain away these points but there is no way around them. They are absolute truths. He then continued by saying that this moral law is a reality beyond anything ordinary we experience. And now in chapter four he boldly states that based on everything thus far there must be something directing and guiding the universe – and that something should arouse our curiosity.

Humans are curious creatures, some more than others. But we can all admit there's a point where our senses and our logic can't satisfy the curiosity. Mark Batterson says this about the curiosity:

"We love having a God that we can measure and manage with our mind. But there will come a point when sensory things and rational things won't satisfy our holy curiosity."

I agree with Batterson, this curiosity is a holy one.

I won't settle for a God I can measure and manage with my mind – which turns out, isn't God at all. When we reduce God into manageable terms we are not following the Almighty God, we're following ourselves. Yet so many of us settle for that type of God and that type of muted faith.

I am curious about the "Something" that placed the earth on a perfect 23.4394 degree tilt soaring around the Sun at 108,000 km/h. My curiosity desires to know who trapped the moon in just the right pattern for the earth to maintain its seasons and tides. I want to know the mysteries behind who measured the oceans and formed the earth.

However, this curiosity is more than just a cosmic one. It is a curiosity which draws me in on the smallest of levels. Frederick Buechner wisely stated,

"The message is not written out in the starlight, which in the long run would make no difference; rather it is written out for each of us in the humdrum, helter-skelter events of each day; it is a message that in the long run might just make all the difference. Who knows what he will say to me today or to you today or into the midst of what kind of unlikely moment he will choose to say it. Not knowing is what makes today a holy mystery."

Lewis concludes that there is a "Power behind the facts, a Director, a Guide." And this Power, this Something, stirs our curiosity from within. It cares deeply about the humdrum, helter-skelter events of each day but it is far beyond our manageable senses and rational logic. It is both a holy curiosity and a holy mystery.

Are you curious?

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There is a fire in my belly

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:30:00 +0000

I sat down to eat two lonely, leftover pork chops, but my wife tried to stop me.

I was convinced they were only a few days old – okay, maybe a week.

They were still tender, flavorful, and oh so delicious. I was only trying to help the common good by cleaning out the fridge of all the leftovers. That's a noble task, right? Let nothing go to waste.

Later that night my wife did the math and determined she made the pork chops when her parents were in town… three weeks ago.

Another surprising revelation is that three week old pork chops are tender and juicy only because the bacteria has had ample time to break down the tough enzymes. Who knew? The consequences of my actions – my foolish actions – are better left unsaid. But it's safe to say that I now have strong convictions when it comes to eating "age-unknown" leftovers.

My wife was trying to teach me a valuable lesson. It's a lesson that many of us have failed to learn: just because it looks good, and tastes good, does not mean it is good.

The world wraps itself up with pretty bows and ribbon. Like a beautiful gift, it offers itself to us with the promise of satisfaction. It looks good, and it tastes good, but it is far from being good. We may very well know we're choosing death itself, but we partake anyway.

Worldliness is so subtle at times. Tullian Tchividjian calls it a "sleepiness of the soul in which the status, pleasures, comforts, and cares of the world appear solid, stunning, and affecting while the truths of Scripture become abstract - unable to grip the heart or guide our everyday activities."

Choosing death makes sense to our flesh, which specializes in counseling with lies. But the Spirit counsels us in the conviction of the truth. A good definition of "conviction" is: understanding when and being convinced that you're dying.

Eating those pork chops was like standing in the middle of a house that was burning to the ground. A fireman was sent in to save me and carry me out. When he reached me I did the most absurd thing imaginable. Instead of choosing life and letting him guide me to safety, I invited him to stay with me in the fire. I chose death because the truth was "unable to grip my heart."

The power of the gospel through the counseling of the Spirit is the only effective weapon against the seductive schemes of worldliness. When we encounter worldliness we must be convinced that choosing to partake in it is like choosing death. Do not let your soul become sleepy and easily counseled with lies. And equally imperative, listen to your wife when she tells you to stop eating three week old pork chops.

Have you ever had food poisoning? How many leftovers are in your fridge right now?

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In pursuit of the American Dream

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Contrary to its own name, the "American Dream" isn't exclusive to Americans. This so-called dream is not limited to those who live within the borders of the United States. The only difference is that Americans have the path of least resistance in bringing that dream to realization and we've succeeded in holding this infamous "dream" captive from the rest of the world. However, I would argue that the American Dream is the same dream that all humans possess in their passionate souls.

So, what is this dream then?

To continue reading, head over to BibleDude.net and join in the conversion about this so-called American dream.

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God is looking for you

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:50:00 +0000

For the entirety of my life, I’ve tried and tried and tried to find God in everything and in every situation. There have been many stops and starts along they way, but the desire of my heart has always been to seek Him out – to find Him in the darkness.

But, do you want to know what absolutely blows my mind?

To find out head over the Everyday Testimony Site and please share with us your testimony for today.

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What is your favorite book of the Bible?

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 13:00:00 +0000

My favorite book of the Bible is one that hardly gets mentioned when this question comes up. The book I love more than any other is the book of Habakkuk.

If you don't know much about the book, you're not alone. Habakkuk is the minor prophet of scripture that scholars know the least about. It is a short three chapter book that tells the story of a man who pridefully questions God's intentions but ends up humbly worshipping Him in the end. It is the same story we all live day in and day out. We question and doubt the plans of God thinking we can plan our life better.

The plans God has for us are hardly ever what we expect. Habakkuk is about to have everything taken from him but he seeks out the words of God. God's response is that, "the righteous will live by faith" (2:4). This small portion of scripture is enough to envelop every commands God has given in all of scripture. (The Apostle Paul references that verse twice, and the author of Hebrews does as well - Rom 1:17, Gal 3:11, Heb 10:38).

This specific part of the story fits in just before the wicked, blood thirsty Babylonians drag the Israelites off into exile. God tells Habakkuk that everything he has ever known is about to be destroyed. God's exact plans are laid out for Habakkuk to see, and it isn't pretty. But when he encounters the reality of his desperate situation his response led right to worship.

Trials and suffering are sure to come our way, some big, some small. The question is how do we prepare for it, how do we endure it?

Habakkuk would want you to sing this song, Habakkuk 3:17-19.

Though the fig tree does not bud

and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.

The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to tread on the heights.

What is your favorite book of the Bible? Why?

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Seeking the Treasure

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 16:30:00 +0000

You can't BUILD IT.

You can't CREATE IT.

You can't ESTABLISH IT.

The primary thing we do in relation to the kingdom of God is to seek it.

Seek and you will find it.

It is the greatest treasure to be sought. The kingdom of God is like water droplets spread across the table. When two droplets touch, they combine and grow into one. The boundaries are fluid. They move and grow and flow. We need to seek out the kingdom all around us so the tresasure can expand and grow.

The second coming of Christ's Kingdom will be like dumping a bucket of water on the table.

What is your first tendency, to build the kingdom or seek the kingdom?

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This post is part of the One Word at a Time blog carnival that is being hosted over at Peter Pollock's blog. Go there to read the other posts on the theme, Treasure.

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Chipping paint

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 15:30:00 +0000

We have a long window seat in the dining room of our eighty-two year old house, and I'm not sure how many coats of paint have been laid over that seat.

I put down the newest coat a year and a half ago, a fresh satin finish of white paint called snowfall. It looked beautiful, the focal point of the whole room.

Fast forward a year a half.

That same beautiful coat of paint is chipping away, looks unattractive, and is worn out. The main reason for this is my two year old son. He uses this window seat as a runway for his plane, a road for his trucks, and a platform for his Buzz Lightyear and Superman to play. He bangs his toys up and down that window seat every day, sometimes non-stop for twenty minutes.

I used to cringe when he started using the seat for his little fantasy world. My beautiful coat of paint was getting scratched up, chipping off, and looked hideous. I wanted to tell him to stop so I could put on a new fresh coat of paint. But then I realized it was just paint, and paint doesn't provide that much protection – it simply provides an attractive appearance.

I often wonder, and bet you do too, about what keeps my faith from exploding with the radical changes I so desperately crave. There are certain things that keep pounding me down, wearing me out, and hindering my growth. Just like my son's toys on that window seat, I have things constantly banging up and down the platform of my life. I could be in real danger if I get fooled into thinking that a coat of paint – a pretty satin finish coat of paint – could protect me from the things of this world.

I could spend the rest of my life repainting the exterior if I actually thought that an attractive outward appearance was important. What an exhausting way to live, right?

The difference between paint and stain is that paint covers a surface and stain penetrates to the core. The same difference is seen between religiosity and the true gospel. The blood-staining power of the gospel penetrates to the core while the paint of religion only serves to cover itself with a façade of counterfeit hope. The paint will chip away but the stain cannot be removed.

Saturate yourself with the stain of the gospel and stay away from adding coat after coat after coat of worthless paint. God's will for your life doesn't involve the exhausting task of trying to achieve an attractive appearance. His desire for you is to receive the stain of the gospel. Receive it and live, because you will die trying to achieve it.

Do you have any paint chipping in your house, in your life?

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The Path

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 18:10:00 +0000

At least four inches of snow had fallen. It was much too cold and much too early for my muscles to be aware of what I was asking of them. I forced on my boots, grabbed my hat and gloves, and slipped out the front door. I was met immediately by the wind pounding hard against my face.

"Just a quick walk," I told myself under my breath. As if I needing to hear it out loud would make it more convincing.

What I learned on this walk was more than I had ever expected.

To read the rest of the story, join me over at BibleDude's site...

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Mere Christianity, chapter 2

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 14:30:00 +0000

C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity, part one, chapter two: Some Objections. This post is part of the Mere Christianity book discussion group. You can go to Jason's blog or Sarah Salter's blog to read all the discussion on chapter two.

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In chapter two Lewis solidifies his points from chapter one by giving answers to some objections he received against these two foundational points. The two points were:

(1) Deep inside every human being is a moral compass (Natural Law, the Law of Right and Wrong), and (2) every human being fails in following its bearings (we all fall short and break the law).

I see a classic case of Genesis 3 here in this chapter. The Fall of Man wasn't caused by some massive horrible sin. Adam and Eve didn't commit mass murder or genocide. They didn't rape or cause harm to any other person. The first sin was nothing more than a seed of doubt which led to a lack of trust in God.

"Did God really say…" (Genesis 3:1)

The serpent's intent wasn't to have Eve kill her husband. He simply wanted Eve to doubt God. In all that God commanded of Adam and Eve the main thing he wanted them to do was to trust Him. When we doubt God, or when we have objections to absolute truth, we are basically seeking independence from God – it's a lack of trust. "Did God really say…" is a statement we say to ourselves all the time. The serpent planted that seed of rebellion and it is the reason we all fall short of trusting God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength.

I don't find it odd that people have doubts about the Law of Right and Wrong. When people doubt the absolute truth they feel deep down inside they in fact doubt God.

Lewis put it in terms of sheet music which directs the notes that are played on a piano. The sheet music is the absolute truth, and the notes are the instincts and the actions that we take based what the sheet music says.

We doubt the sheet music.

We see the notes and ask, "Is this really what I'm supposed to play? Will this make the best melody? I'm not sure, so I'll try this note instead."

We don't trust the sheet music, and we don't trust the Composer.

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There is a lot more in chapter two so check out the other posts written today in the blog discussion. Thanks for stopping by.

What thoughts do you have on the Fall, do you see the seed of doubt?

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5 Ways I Ignore the Holy Spirit

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 14:30:00 +0000

And to expose our hearts to truth and consistently refuse to obey the impulses it arouses is to stymie the motions of life within us and, if persisted in, to grieve the Holy Spirit into silence. - A.W. Tozer

Tozer makes a bold statement here, one in which lands like a knockout blow to the side of my head.

We can expose our self to truth and read scripture everyday but fail to obey the impulses that rise from these truths. The Apostle Paul said that when we are convinced of the truth we can't help but be compelled to live in a certain way (2 Cor 5:14-15). When we "refuse to obey the impulses" there is a major disconnect in our lives. We have faith but lack action (James 2:17). But is that really faith at all? Are we convinced of the truth?

There are several ways in my life were I refuse to obey the impulses that are aroused within me. In doing so I am in danger of grieving the Holy Spirit into silence. Here are 5 ways that we all can ignore the Holy Spirit:

Refusing to pray - there are several times during my conversations with others were I feel the impulse to pray for them. The impulse is not just to tell them I am going to pray for them, but to actually pray for them right then and there. I feel this impulse but force it back to silence. Whenever I do obey the impulse to pray for someone it always results in a powerful and fruitful time.
Refusing to encourage - many times I find myself trying to "one-up" someone else's story with a story about myself. I feel the impulse to encourage them but often end up blowing it by shattering their story by trying to make myself look better. When I do respond in humility, I find that encouraging the other person gives them life and it strengthens the relationship.
Refusing to give - this is not limited to giving of money, but also includes giving of my time. When someone extends an invitation, I am often selfish in my response. I would prefer to stay home and be complacent. However, every time I engage in community I am never dissatisfied.
Refusing grace - people have a tendency to be critical of others. I am no different and this typically manifests itself on the highway, at restaurants, and I am ashamed to say, in my marriage. We can all be quick to criticize and slow to extend grace. The Spirit is always counseling us to point out evidences of grace and when we do amazing things happen in our lives.
Refusing to serve - Jesus came to serve, not to be served. A common theme in our culture is "what have you done for me lately?" I believe in a gospel that is based on humility and sacrifice, but humility and sacrifice are far from being my first reactions. I often ignore the impulse to be humble and serve others when I have my mind entangled in worldly things.

We must identify these areas of disconnect in our lives. But our focus shouldn't be on working harder to perform better in these areas. That focus might actually have a worse result. However, our focus should be on being convinced of what Jesus has already done. Growth in these areas will not happen by behaving better, but by believing better.

In order to have an action packed faith you must have a faith packed faith. We must be convinced of what Jesus has already done and claim that for ourselves. Jesus is the compelling convincer. That is the gospel, and that is what will empower and equip you to answer the impulses with action instead of refusal.

What ways have you ignored the Holy Spirit?

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A swift and constant footing

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 14:30:00 +0000

This poem is part of the Warrior Poet Circle that is hosted at Jason Stasyszen's blog. If you aren't familiar with the WPC you can read about it here. This week's theme for the poetry was "striving", and my poem is based on Habakkuk 3:17-19.
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He gives me the feet like that of the deer
He makes them light and agile in step
Steadfast and strong, surefooted and swift
To go upon the heights without stumble or fall
Confident and certain, constant and concise
I march upon this mount of passion and truth
From here I can see that which was not below
All glory in view, all justice beheld
I'm on His mountain and strive further yet
For the trees don't blossom or bloom or grow
Though storms have come and the rocks are sharp
He has made my feet of swift with a constant stride
I rejoice at the top, I dance on the heights

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What compels you?

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 14:00:00 +0000

I get really excited about baseball.

I get wound up when I spend time with close friends.

My adrenaline gets going when I play sports or do anything competitive.

I love to sing and worship together with the people at my church.

For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. - 2 Corinthians 5:14-15

I am compelled by baseball, friends, competition, worship, and many other things because I am convinced about something. I am convinced that I will find joy in those things.

We are compelled by the things in which we have confidence.

I have confidence in the gospel of Jesus Christ, in him who died for me and was raised again, and that is compelling.

What do you get excited about? What compels you?

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Happy Birthday

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 18:30:00 +0000

Today, my bride turns 30 years old.

She is the melody in my life, the joy in my dance.

Happy Birthday Kristen, I love you.

Mere Christianity, chapter 1

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 16:30:00 +0000

C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity, chapter 1: The Law of Human Nature. This post is part of the Mere Christianity book discussion group. You can go to Jason Stasyszen's blog or Sarah Salter's blog to read all the discussion on chapter one.

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Lewis makes two foundational points in chapter one. (1) Deep inside every human being is a moral compass, and (2) every human being fails in following its bearings.

You could liken these points to (1) there is a source of all morality that sets the standard and (2) we all fall short of the standard.

Put even more straightforward, there is a God and you are not him.

These are the two foundational truths that everyone knows, but not everyone believes. Not everyone believes they fall short of the standard. I think it is hard to share the gospel with someone who doesn't actually believe they're fallen, that they fall short of the standard. They are content to either pull God's standard down to an entirely different standard or make creative excuses for why they've fallen short of the standard. They downplay both the holiness of God and their sin.

Trying to share the message of the gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ, with someone who doesn't acknowledge the two points Lewis makes in chapter one is dangerous. It typically results in the person taking Jesus and adding him to their incorrect view of God's holiness and their sin. Jesus becomes an endorsement for their ultimately unchanged lives. They just take Him and use him as an approval stamp for their lives, and that's not the gospel at all.

It's not an accident that Lewis begins here. We shouldn't be afraid to start here either.

If you wandered the most remote area in the world and stumbled upon an unknown, unreached group of people what would be the first thing you told them about God? Would you start with Jesus? Or would you start in Genesis?

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Destined to Fail

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 14:00:00 +0000

I jacked up my car in the driveway, removed the tire, and gazed at the brake system. I was convinced to do this brake job on my own. I had everything I needed. New brake pads, new rotors, brake fluid, tools, and the perfect YouTube video showing me exactly what to do.

Have you ever attempted something where you were destined to fail?

I have a friend who sets a goal every year to attempt something he is destined to fail at unless God intervenes. Doing the brakes on my car is hardly a lofty goal, but nonetheless, I was destined to fail unless God intervened.

After struggling for 45 minutes to remove the rusted and seized bolts from the caliper bracket I decided to give it my all, one last time. With all my weight behind the wrench, I successfully snapped the bolt head off leaving the rest of the bolt unaffected and unyielding from its position. Epic. Fail.

No one likes to fail. We tend to go through life doing all the things and accomplishing all the goals that suit our natural talents. Anything that might threaten our success is avoided like the plague. However it's often these natural talents where we forget to depend on God. What we feel most capable of in this world is the same things we don't depend on God for. We could spend our wholes lives doing things we are good at, avoiding the things we are bad at, and forget to depend on God through all of it.

One of the biggest struggles in my life has always been dependence on God. Because of that lack of dependence I rarely attempt things that I'm destined to fail unless God intervenes. Therefore, my goals have always been attainable – which most people would say is a good thing, but I don't think it is.

Daniel knew he was going to be eaten by lions unless God intervened.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego knew they were going to burn unless God intervened.

Joshua knew the walls of Jericho weren't going to crumble unless God intervened.

Moses knew the Red Sea was going to be a dead end unless God intervened.

The blind, the deaf, the lame, the sick, the hurting all knew they were destined to be blind, deaf, lame, sick, and hurting unless God intervened.

Because Jesus succeeded, we are free to fail. And Christians should be the frontrunners for setting goals and attempting things they are destined to fail at. We should lean into the fiery furnace, knowing well that we will burn unless God intervenes.

Attempt the unexplainable and be free to fail.

Have you epically failed at anything recently? What do you want to attempt that you know you're destined to fail at unless God intervenes?

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This post is part of the One Word at a Time blog carnival that is hosted over at Peter Pollock's blog. Go there to read the other great posts on today's theme: Goals.

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Greatness is in becoming less

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 14:00:00 +0000

In the Kingdom of God we decrease to greatness.

That statement seems peculiar yet compelling, doesn't it? How can one decrease to greatness? In what system or structure does greatness rest at the bottom? That system certainly doesn't reside in the worldly realm where the constant message is of consuming and increasing to become great. In studying the Gospel you soon find out the Kingdom of God has a different currency than the world, and that greatness is defined by becoming less.

The Apostle Paul had an ever increasing awareness of his fallen state. That increase in awareness led to a decreased view of himself. It is in this decline that greatness if found. It is the same greatness that Jesus spoke of (Matt 11:11) when talking about John the Baptist – who was a man committed to becoming less (John 3:30).

Here is Paul's spiritual journey of becoming less:

Around 55AD during Paul's 3rd missionary journey Paul referred to himself as the "least of the Apostles." (1 Cor. 15:9)
A few years later when Paul was on house arrest, sometime during 60-62 AD, his view of himself decreased even more. He now referred to himself as the "least of all the saints." (Ephesians 3:8)
As if that wasn't enough, sometime between 62-64AD, during Paul's 4th missionary journey he settled on the lowliest description possible. He said that Christ came to save "sinners – of whom I am the worst." (1 Tim 1:15)

Paul landed on the idea that he was the worst of all the sinners. He actually believed this. It was a reality to him, and his life and teaching reflected this awareness. He believed in the story of Genesis 3. He believed he was fallen, and it is here that the Gospel takes over. Pastor and author Tullian Tchividjian commented that the reality of the Gospel "reveals the fact that while you and I are great sinners, God is a great Savior, and that while our sin reaches far, his grace reaches farther."

I'm convinced and compelled by the love of Christ and the grace that reaches father to no longer live for myself, but for something greater. This was the mission of John the Baptist, the Apostle Paul, and most importantly Christ himself. I am compelled to decrease so the Gospel may be great in me.

Do you find it hard to identify yourself as the worst of all sinners when we live in a world where greatness isn't defined as becoming less?

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March Madness Time

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 02:10:00 +0000

This post was written a few years ago, but I revised it and am reposting it as March Madness begins. This time of the year is a great reminder to me that time is a non-renewable commodity. Enjoy.

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If you aren't familiar with March Madness (the NCAA Men's basketball tournament) than I'm sorry, you might hate this post. But please read on because I feel there is a great truth here we shouldn’t miss. March Madness has a special place in my heart that is only accessible by way of multiple brackets, office and online pools, 48 games in the first weekend, and endless highlights and score updates. Nothing else compares to the Madness. It blazes a trail across the nation interrupting the lives of millions of men and women (but mostly men). There is, however, one piece of information that puts this (ultimately insignificant) basketball tournament into perspective. FACT: The day before the tournament starts has more vasectomy procedures than any other day in the year.

Why, you ask?

It's so the men who have their “life-giving-source” snuffed out can take off work the following two days and enjoy pain killers while sitting and watching basketball all day. Believe me, it's true, I read it on the Internet.

The first two days of March Madness are probably the least productive days in American business. People leave work early to watch the games. People take 2 hour lunches to watch the games. People watch the games on their computers at work. People call in sick for work. People even start "playing sick" two days prior to the start of the games so they appear sick and fool their bosses when calling off for Thursday and Friday. I wonder how much money and business is wasted by people ignoring work related duties to watch the games (or write blogs about watching the games - I am not at work right now). I can only imagine how many hours are thrown away by businesses and companies across America during the tourney.

Time. Gone.

And we will never get that time back. In a 1992 article, Kerby Anderson wrote, "Time is your only non-renewable commodity."

Unlike basketball, there are no time-outs in life, the clock doesn't stop for anyone. It continues to tick in disregard for all, the wise and the unwise. The Apostle Paul wrote these two things for us to remember about time:

Ephesians 5:15-17 "Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the LORD is." NASB

Colossians 4:5 "Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time." ESV

Every moment is different and can be used differently. I am only given today, tomorrow is not here yet. It can be used wisely in an extravagant way to feed hungry children in Africa. It can be used wisely in a practical way to finish a project at work. It can be used wisely in a comfortable way to sleep a full eight hours.

Hours. Minutes. Seconds. Moments.

Redeem these moments. Redeem them for the will of the LORD.

The days are evil, and time is slipping by. If God is giving you time as a gift, then you should redeem it from the evil of this world and not let yourself be consumed or defined by it. Rescue your time from that evil and exchange it for holiness, thus returning your minutes and hours to their rightful place. Fill your hours with Scripture and prayer. Bathe your minutes with love. Saturate your seconds with grace.

I will still watch March Madness this year, but it won’t consume me and it won’t define me.

Time may be non-renewable. But it isn't non-redeemable.

Redeem your time.

Do you watch March Madness? In what ways do you walk in wisdom and make the best use of your time?

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Japan is in your backyard

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Americans always respond with heartfelt compassion to tragedies like what has happened in Japan last week. People responded to Katrina and Haiti in the same way. When massive tragedies occur, people see the need and they respond. I’ve noticed that this generation has a hard time giving to the local church, but when they see a need they give. Oh, they give. And that is what you must do now for Japan. If you don't have at least a small feeling in your heart crying out for the people of Japan you have to ask yourself, why?

However, I have another question for you today. Why do most of us wait for massive tragedies to occur around the world before we flip on our compassion and giving?

Don't we have little Japans right in our own backyards that have been struck by their own earthquakes and tsunamis? They may not be urgent tragedies that require us to literally pull people out from under rubble and debris. But they might be tragedies calling us to pull people out of addictions, abusive relationships, financial depravity, hunger, homelessness, or harmful sin. Did you realize there are hundreds of orphans right here in northeast Ohio? You don’t have to go halfway around the world to adopt a child. There are families right here in Akron, Ohio that have been hit with their own earthquakes and tsunamis. There are people who are drowning in unemployment and trying to escape from harmful situations right in your own backyard. There is a small Japan in Nashville, Tennessee. There is a small Japan in Midland, Texas.

Where is your local Japan and what are you doing to respond to it?

You may not be in a position to help the hurting nation and people of Japan. But what can you do for your local Japan?

When major world tragedies occur it stands as a reminder to us all. It reminds us that we are called to rescue the oppressed. We are to find the hungry and feed them, we are to find the thirsty and give them a drink, we are to invite in the strangers and clothe the unclothed, we are to look after the sick and imprisoned. (Matt 25:31-46) Tragedies remind us that we are called to bring hope to others whether in Japan, or Haiti, or New Orleans, or Akron.

Give your money to support relief in Japan. Maybe even physically go to Japan and help. But also, more importantly, identify the Japan in your backyard and do something about it.

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Reading Old Journals

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Last week I came across an old journal of mine from nearly eight years ago. The earliest date recorded was May 3, 2003.

I started to flip through some of the pages and entries and was fascinated at what was written. Of all the things I was struggling with back in 2003, it seemed as if I still struggle with the same things today in 2011.

I wrote about discipline and discipleship. There were entries about finding brokenness and humility. I wrote about seeking purity, wisdom, and integrity in all things. It would easy for someone to read their old journals and sink into despair and depression. How would you respond if you realized what you are struggling with today is the same thing you were struggling with eight, ten, twenty years ago?

The Christian life, at times, can seem like a cycle of mediocrity and superficiality. We are called to be perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect (Matt 5:48), yet we look at the journal of our lives and question if perfection is a reality. But as I was reading through my old journal I didn’t land in a place of despair or depression. I was reminded of my desperate situation and that pointed me right to the Gospel.

You see, Jesus perfectly accomplished all the things that he is now challenging us to do perfectly. He lived the perfect life, perfectly paid for all our debt, and received the perfect approval of the Father. We don’t achieve perfection. We receive perfection.

Do you ever read through your old journals or blogs? Does it point you toward despair or joy?

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20 things I am good at

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 13:15:00 +0000

Yesterday's post was about seeing yourself as Jesus sees you, humbly yet accurately.

A good exercise would be to list out the things you are good at, gifted at, talented in, and feel called to. These are things that God has written on your heart and created you to do. When God looks at you he sees His own image, a unique, special, and talented image.

Make a list for yourself. Carry it around with you, even, to remind you of who you are in Christ and how he sees you. When you compile your list, keep in mind that the things you are good at should also be the ways that you are able to uniquely serve.

20 things I am good at (how God sees me), and how I use them to serve others and Him:

1. Playing the bass guitar – I serve on my church's worship team

2. Writing – My goal is to encourage others through writing

3. Thinking analytically – I am good at solving problems and eliminating errors

4. Activation – I take action and encourage others to take action

5. Winning others over (Woo) – I enjoy making a connection and starting relationships

6. Belief – I stand firm in my beliefs of God and the things of the Kingdom

7. Reading – I am good at reading and discerning what I read

8. Playing with my kids – I am really good at getting on the floor with my two little ones

9. Approachable – I am easy to engage in conversation and approach with issues

10. Listener – I don't have to ever say a word

11. Being a husband – my wife is easy to love, but I am good at serving her in the small ways

12. Athleticism – I've always been just good enough at baseball, football and basketball

13. Taking notes – I'm the one who writes it down so both you and I won't forget what's important. I usually always have a note pad and pen with me everywhere I go.

14. Edification – there are times where spontaneous encouragement just comes out of me

15. Capable – I'm not a master in anything, but I tend to be a jack of all trades

16. Craftsmen – I'm good at creating for others and standing in the shadows to see how they enjoy it

17. Laborer – I'm not afraid to get my hands dirty when it's needed and even when it's not

18. Seeker of Wisdom – I crave wisdom and discernment in everything and I love to share what is revealed to me

19. Teacher – I am good at presenting an idea and explaining but also creating space so you can discern on your own

20. Making grilled cheese - trust me, I make a good grilled cheese sandwich.

It's time to have an accurate view of yourself – which is not bragging. What are some things that you are good at and use to serve others?

Share with us in the comments or post your list on your own blog and drop the link here.

How would Jesus describe you to a crowd?

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 14:00:00 +0000

In Matthew 11, Jesus is speaking to both his disciples and a large crowd as he describes the "greatest" man who has ever lived. No other man born of a woman – which includes, everyone – is greater than John the Baptist.

Matthew 11:7-11:

As John's disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear fine clothes are in kings' palaces. Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written:

"'I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you."

Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.

Last night I was with the men of my church community and we were discussing this passage and studying John the Baptist. We asked ourselves, "How would Jesus describe us to a crowd of people?"

At first no one wanted to suggest what Jesus would say about them. This introduces quite an issue because we found that we struggle to see ourselves as Jesus sees us. We admitted that Jesus could describe us in large sweeping generalities such as: an adopted son, more than a conqueror, covered by grace, etc. But we could not dismiss the fact that Jesus knows us each personally and specifically.

Jesus would definitely call you his son or daughter. But how would you describe your son or daughter to someone? You would, without a doubt, be specific about their qualities, strengths, and their detailed beauty. The description you give would be accurate.

Humility isn't speaking lowly about yourself or calling yourself unworthy. Humility is speaking of yourself accurately. Jesus would describe you accurately in a specific and personal way, and this is what we struggle to see. We have a hard time seeing ourselves accurately as Jesus sees us.

What are you good at? In what ways has God gifted you specifically? What is your calling and purpose for the Kingdom of God? What are your strengths as a son or daughter of God?

How would Jesus accurately describe you?

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Being Led into Lent

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:57:00 +0000

Here in northeast Ohio we have hard time conjuring up the image of a desert or even what it would be like to roam in a one.
But we can all relate with the experience of a parched soul, fighting of the wild beasts of temptation, having a heart that is hungry and thirsty, and the feelings of utter desperation.

I've written about Lent before. Two years ago I wrote about Orange Juice and Lent. Last year I wrote about Lent for Life. Both of those posts seem juvenile to me now as I still struggle to wrap my mind around the idea of what Jesus did in the wilderness for 40 days. What flips my crank even more is that "Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil." (Matt 4:1)

That passage and this video below remind me of my lack of obedience as son who resists the leading of the Spirit. The season of Lent is a time for reflection, patience, sacrifice, and preparation. We can easily jump into the next forty days without the leading of the Spirit. Protect yourself from that error. Allow the Spirit to lead you into a time of reflection, patience, sacrifice, and preparation.

As seen in the compelling video below, the season of Lent is much deeper than you we give it credit for.

How are you approaching Lent this year? Are you "giving anything up"?

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Where moth and rust destroy

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Tate) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Do you believe you're living a life that lasts forever, or are you only preparing for the next 30, 40, 50, or 60 years?

We've been trained to use the first twenty years of our lives preparing for the next forty. Then we use those forty years to prepare for the last fifteen or twenty, if we're lucky.

What if eternity has already begun and your life isn't about preparing for retirement? Would that change the way you live? Would that be a radical, compelling way to live?

The concept that we live forever is tough to grasp. We are surrounded by objects and items that are destroyed by moth and rust, where wealth runs out, and things don't last. The world around us seems temporary and we've adopted that view for our own lives too. We've started to believe we have temporary lives here, so why not spend it preparing for the last few years.

But there is that small inkling inside your soul that tells you otherwise, right?

There is a tiny voice that is whispering to you about the future.

That voice is the eternity that God has set in your heart (Ecc 3:11). When we tap into that we begin to shake off the temporary and put on the eternal. We begin to invest not in retirement, but in the currency of God's Kingdom – a Kingdom that is eternal, a Kingdom where moth and rust do not destroy.

My father in-law keeps a large old rusty bin by the door on his front porch. He painted the words "Moth and Rust" in bold letters on the side of the bin. It stands as a reminder to him of what is temporary and what is eternal.

This life matters. It matters because this is the time where we begin to invest in the currency of God. This is where we begin to build stock in the things of God. Challenge yourself to grasp the concept of living forever. Use this time, right now, to prepare for the eternal. Believe that your life lasts forever and see how your perspectives and desires change. Dare to be radical. Dare to be compelling. Dare to be eternal.

Don't invest in the things that are destroyed by moth and rust. Remind yourself to throw them in an old rusty bin where they belong.

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This post is part of the One Word at a Time blog carnival that is being hosted over at Peter Pollock's blog. Go there to read all the other amazing posts on the theme: Future.

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