TGIF, June 26, 2009

When the man saw that he did not prevail against Jacob, he touched his hip socket, and Jacob’s hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him. Then he said, "Let me go, for the day has broken." But Jacob said, "I will not let you go unless you bless me." -- Genesis 32:25-26

Wrestling with some roundabout, rambling thoughts.

I was headed for a church committee meeting last night and when I left home I walked past my neighbor, who I know is going through some marital issues with her husband. But I didn't have time to talk with her because I was late for my meeting. I only had time to say "hi." Another neighbor, who suffers from some mental health issues, has asked me to spend time with him to study the Bible. I've been unable to find time, however, because I'm too busy with "ministry" at church.

What's wrong with this picture? I think God may be telling me something about his priorities and it may be that "church stuff" isn't that high of a priority.

To be honest, I'm facing a lot of uncertanties about my future. And as time progresses, I'm feeling less "qualified" to do what I really hope to do. I'm feeling a bit like the little boy who doesn't get picked to play on the team.

Now, Jacob also was uncertain of his future when he wrestled God. But he refused to let go. With only a touch, God disabled Jacob, but let him win the wrestling match, like a father letting his little boy win, I suppose. But once Jacob was disabled, he was ready for God to work in him and through him, even though the disability left him less "qualified," I guess you could say. Perhaps God is disabling me to prepare me so that he may be glorified in my weakness, as Paul said. Making me less able to sit through committee meetings and for official church business, but more adequate to help those also in need.

A couple things from the Internet:

• Young adults are "flocking" to megachurches, one study says. It seems there are contradictory studies out there. There is some interesting information in the study. But the point is, I think, is that there are many expressions of faith and we shouldn't necessarily discount one over the other. House churches, for instance, may have more backing biblically, but in 21st century America, I think God also works through megachurches.
• Meanwhile, a story in the Minneapolis Tribune talks about how churches are marketing themselves to young adults.

Peace

"The LORD be exalted, who delights in the well-being of his servant." -- Psalm 35:27b

I've neglected this blog again and so thought I would post something here to get it warmed up. I have a lot to write about but first I have to digest some things I've been learning.

So for today, a simple thought and that is that God, my Father, delights in my well-being. The word well-being here is shalom in Hebrew. It also is translated as prosperity and welfare. Shalom is generally translated peace. But it has more to do with wholeness or oneness, not merely cessation of conflict. In fact, I don't think it has anything to do with cessation of conflict. It's about being healthy in mind, body and spirit. I'm considering some choices about life right now and that includes trying to draw some boundaries, establish some priorities, spend more time listening and being quiet, being healthier. That means maybe letting some people down or failing to live up to their expectations. I don't like doing that. It causes me stress. I like to please people. But to God, anything I can do to be a whole person delights Him. In fact, my shalom/peace actually brings shalom/peace to God, as the above verse indicates and as does Song of Songs 8:10b -- "I have become in his eyes like one who brings contentment (shalom)."

And that's a very encouraging thought.