Wednesday, February 20, 2008

BeastlyOne



Before I get to the important stuff, let it be known that I am a technophobe and I'm also a "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade" type. When I saw how my picture turned out I immediately dismissed the idea of fixing it, choosing rather to embrace it. Seeing the picture, I wanted to call myself an Oompa-loompa, but then I discovered those fine people are actually orange. I didn't want to be Papa Smurf so I ended up with the suggested title above.(I don't think they meant it as a complement. Hmmm)

These past 10 days have been really good for me and not because I have been so successful, but rather because I'm getting a more honest look into how dependent I really am on God. I typically begin well each day, but will realize about mid-afternoon that I haven't given God a single thought. Often I only realize that because this commitment will jump into my head. How have I lived this many years and not seriously pursued ceaseless prayer? At night when I journal, I am often shocked at how little conscious thought I have given to actually walking with God. Certainly his teachings have affected the way I think about life, decision making, relationships, etc., but I think, as a follower of the actual Son of God, I should want better than just to internalize a few of his teachings. I want to walk with my Father. I want to keep in step with His Spirit. I suspect that means a little more than occasionally reflecting on a truth or two that He has given me.

God, I pray for your continued patience as you lead me through this experience. Ultimately I trust in your guidance and your ability to make me what I need to be. 4 Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. 5 Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God (2 Corinthians 3:4-5)

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Ok first of all - what's a technophobe? Love the pic & the name - who suggested it?

I have had some of the same experiences when I sit down to journel & realizing how little thought I gave God throughout my day. This goes to show that we can do nothing w/out Him. We even need Him to help us focus on Him! Ironic isn't it? Thanks for being honest w/ us. This is a quality of a true leader.

JasonT said...

Wikipedia says, "Technophobia is the fear of, or revulsion to, modern technology and is the opposite of technophilia. Sometimes the term is used in the sense of an irrational fear while others defend that the fears are justified." I believe it to be moderately justified.

Your friendly neighborhood youth minister gave me the name. (Though I question the friendly part)

Great observation about needing Him to help us focus on Him.

Anonymous said...

I love the self-reflection. It seems crazy that so many who grow up in a "Christian" lifestyle don't depend on the Creator.

Jenni said...

So...your picture reminded someone of "Beast" from X-men? I would consider drastic hair-removal measures and THEN fix the pigmentation issues. Priorities, priorities, my friend.