Guard your heart

Proverbs 4:23, "Guard your heart for out of it are the well springs of life."

We have the opportunity to protect ourselves from the daggers and spears thrust at us by others if we so chose. For if we do, then we can live life as live was intended to be lived. If we don't, we become handicapped and suspect to a miserable existence. I've found the antidote to protection from an old fisherman named Peter. His advise, when he wrote to a bunch of Christ follower's two milinnea ago, was "...above everything else in life, live love for that covers a multitude of sins." (1 Peter 4:8) 

In a day when negative assualts and critical comments are common place, when love is the goal and passion of our life, the darts of one's insecurities can in no way puncture a heart saturated with Jesus.

For the one

We have a saying around the fellowship that goes like this, “…for the one!” It is our conviction that every person that walks through our doors is a specially invited guest of God and we’d better treat them as such. We believe that every person is loved by our Maker and every person is worthy of our time, care and love. Our belief is that behind every person is a redemptive story in the works; a poem that is being written in the heavens to ascribe meaning and purpose to all of creation. Further, we are passionate that church isn’t something we do; rather, it should be who we are. It is our heart that our faith can’t be reduced to a weekly event, but should flow out of a heart warmed over by God’s love and should be evident in everything we do.

I became a Chaplain with the MBPD in November of 2009; it’s hard to believe it’s been almost 5 years.  I have thoroughly enjoyed the times I’ve been called upon to lend a helping hand, to provide a word of counsel, to cry with a family member when they’ve been informed their loved one has passed. The greatest joy I receive is when someone I’ve been called upon to help takes the necessary steps to change. When someone embraces the advice I give and incorporates that into a lifestyle of purpose, there’s joy beyond words.

Roughly four years ago, retired cop & good friend of mine Richard Hannibal and I began an outreach. We determined to feed the homeless in Morro Bay every Friday with the hopes that perhaps one, maybe two could break the cycle of brokenness and begin a productive life saturated with fulfillment. This weekly gesture grew into two, three nights a week and eventually produced a Saturday morning fed at our church that serves over 200 every week.

Well, there was one young lady that caught our eye on those Friday’s; you might say Richard and I had a soft spot in our heart for her. She was polite, kind and caring. To see her week after week in a state of brokenness truly hurt our heart. For the life of Richard and I, we had great consternation on the why she stayed in her relationship.  She was beaten, bruised, treated as dirt and considered an object by her “friend.” Every Friday for over three years, this young lady was high on crystal meth, alcohol or some mood altering substance. At first glance, one would deduct she was hopeless. However, week after week, we would hug her, tell her she had value and treat her as a worthy recipient of grace. We often drove off in Richard’s squad car on Friday’s shaking our head in dismay.

Well, as life has a way of moving forward, with Richard’s retirement and my increasing responsibilities, we lost contact with this hurting soul.  In all of our efforts, we’ve often discussed if we could have helped one, it would have been worth the effort and cause.  Well… I’m blessed to write that this young lady, who will remain nameless, said hi to me the other day in the store. In fact, she was in her right mind, totally sober and has been clean for over a year. A feeling of “wow” gripped my spirit and emotions of “right on” began to flood my heart. She went on to explain to me that she had left that unhealthy relationship and lifestyle that was literally killing her and she was now pursuing a life of meaning.

“…for the one” continues to be a driving force of my life and the life of the church I serve. You just never know the life you’ll touch, the soul you’ll impact or the future you’ll alter. I think it’s a good thing to look at others as invited guests of our Maker and maybe you, that’s right you, may be the one to help that individual become the person they are suppose to become because you’ve embraced a lifestyle of “…for the one!”

God's delight

"Would that I would see my sin as horrifying and His grace as amazing as I did when first reborn. Give me daily a broken and contrite heart."  
(RC Sproul Jr.)

I'm intrigued with this quote that came across my Twitter feed earlier today. So much truth in these 28 words. As I meditate on the content, I'm reminded that at least three times in scripture where it describes me. Jeremiah said my heart is wicked; Isaiah wrote that my best is a dirty bloody rag. Paul wrote that there's nothing good in my flesh; in fact, I bring nothing to the table of eternal value on my own. How's that for a word of encouragement, hah?

Actually, it does encourage me to no end. For starters, God is perfect, holy, righteous and full of glory. I'm His creation; a creation that is oh so flawed, so messed up, so full of stuff. I seek praise, accolades and pats on my insecure back. I continue to please my flesh by priding myself in my self-sufficiency - the list goes on and on. Why? I'm human.  

Check it out though: this perfect God loves me, a guy totally imperfect, just because He chooses to. The Lord delights in me simply because it gives Him joy, seriously? In fact, if you really dig deep into truth, the Book says I'm the praise of His glory. Wow, that's amazing, right?

Bottom line: if I remember where I came from and the unmerited favor of a magnanimous God toward me, my heart bubbles forth with gratitude and thanksgiving. And further, this ignites a desire within me to be about growing in that intimate relationship with my Savior.

Last, I believe the delight God is overjoying in isn’t me at all; rather, it’s when my heart and life radiates the love of His Son that brings God such delight.  Once again, it’s Him, not me!

I must decrease and He must increase – John the Baptist

Relief Valves

The first half of this year has been full of surprise, new beginnings and some trial.  I’ve come to realize that life can be difficult and arduous; life can be challenging and full of bombshells.  Have you ever felt like you’re going to lose it?  Ever felt like you’re a time bomb ready to explode?  You know, like the walls of your existence are caving in on you? 

I was thinking the other day of relief valves and their purpose.  Defined, a relief value is a safety mechanism that relieves pressure when it becomes high right before it becomes dangerous.  As people, unless there is a “relief value” positioned in our life, the very pressure of life can become hazardous.  Just this year some of my friends have endured heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure and anxiety bouts.  My heart goes out to them, no question. 

I find myself asking, “Why?”  Why do we as humans fail to put into place relief valves to dissipate the pressure life presents?  If we know that life happens and can bring stress, why don’t we prepare accordingly?  Now, granted some of these conditions are genetic, unforeseen disease and unpredictable calamity.  However, for those life times that are controllable, at least in the “how” we handle them, doesn’t it make sense to integrate relief valves into our daily existence?  

Personally, I have relief valves that seem to remove the pressure which makes life more manageable.  And of course, makes me more civil to be around.  Check them out:

Pearl – my adopted daughter.  Pearl is almost three and is full of life, energy & mischief.  She’s a shepherd/border collie mix.  Not only does Pearl present that unconditional way about her that is ever so endearing, she relaxes and settles my spirit daily as I spend 30 to 45 minutes playing ball toss.  Just watching her run and run, and run some more acts as a relief valve to the daily pressures life brings.

Golfing – at least once a month, sometimes more, I get out and hit a little white ball at a flag.  Granted, I’m terrible at this game.  However, simply walking six to seven miles with my buddies – laughing, digging at each other & pretending we’re the next Master’s champion, is a total relief (actually, the other day I hit a ball 320 yards and pitched the ball right next to the flag to score a birdie!).

Nature – I backpack yearly, I hike often - I love the outdoors.  The other day I was walking and I came across some deer.  These beautiful, eloquent creations were simply about their day, eating, rooming and living life.  And yes, their very presence reminded me that life will have a way of working out; life is manageable and doable.  They became my relief valve, if you will!

Alone time – this is what I call my Sabbath.  One day a week, I turn off all electronics and I simply relax.  No phone calls, no emails, no texting, no Facebook, no Instagram, no Snapchat… NO social media.  In fact, it’s what I call a date with my Creator.  It’s my day I bask in His beauty, remember His love and contemplate the blessings He has given me.  As a Pastor and Chaplain, this is no question my greatest relief valve.  To know my Maker loves me unconditionally, is for me and not against me… well, this truly is where perspective is.

Well, I could go on and on.  As one who has to be intentional with relief valves, I encourage you to find things in life that will alleviate the pressures, the challenges and the complications of your existence.  As one who serves at a church and as a friend to the PD, I can’t encourage you enough to be still and know your Maker, for He is the epitome of a “relief valve!”  Cheers, thanks for reading.

Tides of change

One thing I’m coming to understand in my little world is the only constant seems to be change. With the dawn of each day there’s something that invades my life like the consistency of the ocean’s tide.  These tides of change aren’t necessarily good or bad, they just are!  Have you noticed this peculiarity of life?  You know, where each day brings yet another surprise?  A wave of bewilderment that demands immediate action?  You’ve been there, right?  Remember a time when everything was running smoothly and then, unexpectedly it happens, these tides of change frequent and a necessary adjustment is in order? 

Personally, 2014 has been full of surprises, sprinkled with this situation followed by that circumstance. Numerous episodes that have not only have altered my schedule, they’re becoming common place.  I guess this is why I’ve been having trouble sleeping lately.  Last week, I woke at 2:37 in the morning, wide awake.  This morning, it was 2:17am.  Seriously, what does one do at this crazy hour of the day?  Put the coffee on?  Yes!  Turn the TV on, not a chance (there’s no golf on at this ridiculous hour)! 

As I consider the reality that yes today another surprise is just around the corner, I’m reminded of one of the most famous poems ever put to paper to help bring perspective. The poem was written by King David, Israel’s second king.  He wrote Psalm 23.  Here’s some highlights that have helped me through this phenomenon called tides of change:

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want – amidst change, we can be confident that our shepherd above will meet our every need.  In other words, He’s got it under control!

He makes me lie down in green pastures – amidst change, we’re invited to rest, to chill and to enjoy life. 

He leads me beside still waters, restores my soul and guides me – amidst change, our Creator will navigate our life for the good – for our blessing, His purpose!

Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, You are with me – amidst change, especially during the agitating moments we have, our Creator is right there beside us, holding our hand, sometimes carrying us letting us know it’s all going to be okay.

You prepare a table before in the presence of my enemies – amidst change, we can still find purpose and discover meaning when life doesn’t simply make sense.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me – amidst change, we can be assured that there is a future good and that future good is ours for the apprehending.

Yesterday I received news that my dear friend changed his residence; Bill Reimer moved from this earth to his new home in heaven.  I love Bill like a father; we became very close friends this past year and half.  Though I knew his impending death was close, it still felt like it was new, like tides of change if you will.  As I’ve reflected just these past 12 hours, I’m holding fast to David’s promise in Psalm 23.  I have to. 

The tides of change is here friends.  These tides of change come in different shapes and sizes, they know no boundaries and they come at unexpected times.  And, I submit that Psalm 23 is intended to purify and ennoble our natural emotions that come with these tides of change and elevate us to a position of victory, meaning and acceptance. 

I hope this little article helps.  It has helped me just putting my thoughts on paper as I work through my buddy’s passing.  Have a great day and thanks for your ear!

Mixed Feelings

      Have you ever experienced mixed feelings?  You know - feelings that can be dichotomous, conflicting and confusing?  Feelings that on the one hand you’re engaging with, and then in moment’s notice, those same feelings have a canny way of presenting a betrayal?  These past few days have introduced some differing emotions within that I’m trying to reconcile.

      You see, I had the honor of traveling with three friends to Ethiopia these past few weeks on what we call a “short term” mission trip.  We taught leadership principles, we shared our convictions concerning our Maker and we were able to provide financial assistance in some pretty difficult circumstances.  All in all, this was one of my favorite trips to date; my team members and I are eternally grateful.

      My struggle, if you will, is re-entering my western world with the niceties, the privileges and the overwhelming opulence our culture affords that was absent during my brief journey; the shortage of these cultural particulars that I have come to love & cherish has a way of indicting my ungrateful heart.  Now, I’m not complaining and I understand a bit about sovereignty and providence; I’m trained in that vein and teach on it.  However, my issue is how I take the lessons I’ve learned in a foreign land and incorporate them into my daily existence.  Things like being appreciative of clean running water, of a working refrigerator that keeps my leftover meatloaf fresh, those snicker bars in the cupboard calling my name and the 17 pairs of shoes in my closet waiting to be worn.  My fear is jumping back into the rat race that defines my life & getting caught up in my daily duties that I forget.  I worry I will forget to wire money so our church there can buy a generator to provide lights for their evening worship service.  Anxious that I will be remiss in raising funds to bring water from the earth so my friends might have a cup of cold water once in a life time.  Frazzled I will neglect to pray for the precious Jews in the Felasha village that welcomed us with open arms into their synagogue last week during that crazy African rain storm. 

Well, I can go on and on, no question.  As I write my thoughts, I’m reminded of a passage recorded a number of years ago that goes like this, “… in all things be thankful, for this is God’s will for you.”  In my vernacular, “Randy, be grateful for what you have.  No need to feel guilty.  Remember where your life comes from.  Be mindful of others; be generous, benevolent and compassionate.  As you do, these mixed feelings will meld into nuggets of appreciation and an awe-inspiring gratitude for your Creator.” Hum?  When I look at these feelings from that vantage, I’m comforted and settled.  As soon as I forget the Source, I’m conflicted. 

      I met a Police Commander named Ahegnwesh a number of years ago in a town called Gondar, Ethiopia.  Last week, I wanted my friends to meet her.  Now, Ahegnwesh lives in a tiny shack, no running water and a bathroom that is nothing more than a hole in the ground; her stove is Eucalyptus branches.  This gal is amazing.  No she doesn’t have what we have, yet in many ways, she has so much more.  She has continual joy, a smile that speaks volumes of a blessed heart and a way about her that is so contagious.  She had us in her little hut to provide a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.  During our two hour visit, she could not stop smiling; giggling and telling us how much she loved us.  When I showed Ahegnwesh my MBPD identification, she slapped me on the arm and said, “…ah!”  Not sure what that meant, but I do know it was a sock of affirmation. 

      You’ve heard that a picture speaks a thousand words?  Check out Ahegnwesh’s picture below, her face glows with contentment, grace and life is good.  And, I submit to you her life is focused on the comforting love of her Designer.

 

            Well, thanks for hearing me out.  I’m still working through this and you would think I’d have this figured out after 30 of these trips overseas.  But I do know one thing, the more I look up the more I am grateful for what’s before.  Have a great day and offer a word of thanks for what you have, it is a gift from above.

Uncertainty

It has been a season of uncertainty on the Central Coast, a season of “really…” as of late.  From the news of a dear friend being presented with a death sentence ensuing from a life threatening disease, to the untimely and massively difficult loss of a much loved teen named Riley, sometimes life doesn’t make much sense.  You see, two of my buddies have been fighting with vigor, passion, and resolve through life’s agitating moments, namely, their looming departure from this earth.  Both Bill and Riley have my utmost respect, honor and “I want to be like them” imbedded in my soul.

Riley was fifteen when that ugly, much hated disease called Leukemia consumed his body.  It was at 1:30am on Valentine’s Day when Riley closed his physical eyes for the last time.  I received the news a few hours later.  I’ll never forget it.  I was at my home office, doing paper work when I received a text about Riley’s entrance into eternity.  I sank in my chair in dismay, with frequent tears and emotions that aren’t supposed to be.  Riley was one of those very special ones; a kid never in trouble, polite, full of life and the one that would look you in the eye & speak with character and depth (a rare characteristic in today’s youth).  A few months back, as an example of Riley’s person, I sent him a text telling him I’m praying for him.  He was residing in a Fresno hospital bed, not able to snack on what most teens consume, nor enjoy the niceties of the adolescent life that so many appreciate.  Check out what Riley texted me back, “Thank you so much, my parents need more prayers than myself.”  Wow!  Not a complaint, a protest or even the hint of a grumbling spirit.  Quite the opposite.  We celebrate the life of Riley next week; we expect record numbers to show up to display their love for this phenomenal young man.  Riley was about the other.  Riley was considerate.  Riley was humble.  Riley was amazing.  I want to be like Riley! 

Bill and I have known each other for over 40 years.  Bill was the Fire Chief at the City of Santa Ana, the President of the Booster Club and the father of a friend of mine.  Last Spring, I was informed on a Sunday morning that an old friend from Edison High School moved to Morro Bay and was in the audience.  When I took the stage to teach, I perused the congregation looking for a young man, you know, a guy my age.  I didn’t recognize anyone from the old days.  After church this confident, good looking man came up and said hello.  Immediately I knew it was Bill Sr.  He introduced me to his lovely bride Maria and we hugged.  From that day to today, we’ve had a kindred spirit, a closeness that the Book calls closer than blood.  Bill is a remarkable man; a dude full of class, dignity and character.  Every Tuesday, we’ve spent time together growing in our faith and in our friendship.  Countless discussions, dinners, hanging out times have taught me once again what it means to be a man.  This last November, Bill was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer; just a week ago, the medical profession gave my dear friend less than two months on this earth.  Bill’s response to this death sentence has me baffled.  I know how I would react, most likely opposite of what I’m witnessing.  You see, Bill has a way about him that is embracing, real, genuine, and authentic.  “How are you Bill?”  His response every time, “Randy, I have a peace from God that is keeping me.  I will be healed, this side or that side.  I know it is all going to be okay.”  My thoughts are “…come on, seriously?”  But you know, Bill and Maria really believe this.  They know that they know that they know this uncertainty has a certainty in the loving presence of their God.  Bill is loved.  Bill is the real deal.  Bill is amazing.  I want to be like Bill!

Uncertainty is an emotion of the unknown, not having a sure grasp on the future.  When I think of Riley, when I think of Bill, I think the opposite.  I am certain that Riley is with His Maker, enjoying the benefits of what the writer of Psalm 23 wrote three millennia ago, “… surely goodness and mercy shall follow Riley all the days of his life and Riley will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”  I am certain that Bill will be absent from his failing physical body and present with His Lord when that time comes.  I’m confident, 100% in both instances.  The uncertainty comes flooding in when I look to my own limited understanding on these disturbing moments of my, our existence.  However, as a Pastor of a local church, as a Chaplain of the MBPD, I also know with certainty that the God Riley is with and the God that Bill loves is in control of the affairs of this life.  Granted, I may not understand, I perhaps don’t agree with what I see or experience.  However, that really doesn’t matter because as both Riley espoused and Bill lives, the uncertainty of life is lost when one’s attention and affection is on the certain love of a God far higher than us humans. 

In short, thanks for reading and putting up with my tears sprinkled on this article.  If you’re in a season of uncertainty, as I, glean from two of my heroes and implement Riley and Bill’s example of the certainty of their relationship with their Creator.