John Allison

God in the dark.

2011-06-07T07:36:00.000-07:00

We all have walked through darkness in our lives. Moments where we knew uninvited difficulties had arrived. The knowing that the unimaginable could not be circumvented and that it must be endured. In the midst of those times, it is tempting to doubt that God is there. He is.

I recently gave a talk on the realities of Human Trafficking. To prepare, I tried to imagine what it was like to be a small child being abused by an adult. Not just once but repeatedly. I simply do not have words to describe what it must be like.

The thought of being forsaken, where there is simply no cry for help being heeded leaves only the dullest of aches in my heart. I am certain it is what Christ endured on the cross. I know he identifies with all who are in darkness and whose cries fade into echoes and blackness.

I do not have a tidy or articulate word to offer. Save that God is with each of us. Even the child described previously. I do not understand it. But I know He is there.

The song "O Blessed Child" is one I came to learn recently. It without question captures the essence of what I am attempting to say. I'll leave this open ended and only offer you the chance to listen and contemplate. Let God assure you...He is with you always. He is with every forsaken little one on our planet.

Listen to "O Blessed Child" and rest your heart and let us pray for each other and the children.

God's grace,
john

Birdsongs

2011-03-29T04:33:00.000-07:00

I guess there is some science as to why birds sing. Smart people study things like this. Apparently in the spring and in the morning it can be a way for the male to attract a mate or tell other birdbrains that "this is my territory." I am going to choose to express my subjective, non scientific reason. Birds sing because God made them to. And going way out on a limb here, I choose to believe God knew that humans would find joy in the sounds of a birdsong. Hence, finding encouragement.

As a musician, I sure understand how circumstances can steel a tune from the heart. There have been times when I wanted to "hang it up" and not play or sing. I think of a time in the bible when God's people were in captivity. They sat down by a river and wept and hung up their harps. They surrendered their songs to discouragement (Psalm 137). Man! I have been there!

Amidst a torrent of the unwelcome and unexpected, this musician has stopped singing. This morning before sunrise, I walked in DC and was greeted and treated to the sounds of birdsongs coming from freshly bloomed dogwood trees. I felt hope. I felt jealous. I have always admired birds for their carefree, "I am singing even if you are having a bad life" attitude! Even wrote a song about it called "Outta Here."

Time to take the harp off the wall and join these feathery band mates in the singing...and never stop. I think it's what you and I were made to do.

tweet, tweet!
john

PAUSE

2010-12-30T17:39:00.000-08:00

PAUSE - by John Allison from The Father's House NY on Vimeo.

wisdom from a 10 year old.

2010-09-21T08:58:00.000-07:00

I wish I could say I wrote what is contained herein but I did not. It was our 10 year old (at the time) son writing to his mother just prior to her surgery to defeat breast cancer (nearly 10 months ago). I also wish I could tell you that I was as steadfast as he was. There was no small amount of apprehension on my part surrounding everything. When Lori passed this note onto me, I was struck. Struck at how jaded I had become. My shield of faith was missing. Not the shield's fault but mine for not raising it. The words of this young boy went off like a shot in my heart. He was absolutely correct! The situations in life are mere bumps in the road. God is GREATER. GREATER. May we all have a rock solid assurance in our God.

This is an excerpt of his email, exactly as it came to Lori. May you be upheld by its simple truth. ~john

IT JUST TAKES FAITH AND COURAGE, PRAYER AND NO FEAR. FEAR IS WHAT MAKES YOU WEAK IT MAKES YOU NEGATIVE THATS NOT WHAT GOD WANTS. This situation is nothing but a bump in the ground and another step of faith in life that you WILL GET THROUGH!!!!!!
~jonathan david allison, age 10.

cost.

2010-07-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

I have been asking myself, "Would I follow Jesus if it cost me everything?"

I'd like to think I would answer, "yes." But after a year of feeling some major discomfort and loss, I know that I am not eager to lose "it" all. I think that "it" is everything we have made of our lives in America.

For the record, my humanity doesn't want to be bothered. I want a comfortable, blessed, every weekend free, air-conditioned and new car life. Major problem, it doesn't seem to be going that way! Wait, is it really a problem or just a conflict of interest? Maybe I am not supposed to want so much from this life. But honestly, I do.

However, I am suspicious that the more intently I follow Christ, the more distant my affections grow towards the things of our culture and world. I have a decision to make. Do I want to follow Jesus? I mean really follow.

If my answer is truly, "yes" than I must be prepared. Jesus may ask me to do things that have little to do with my personal happiness and comfort. In fact, I am quite certain He will invite me to walk on the water and risk everything.

This month I embarked on a new mission, to serve as a member of staff of World Hope International. By definition, my job will require that I think far beyond my comfort zones and look into the eyes of those I have only the fact we are human as a common denominator. I have never known the level of poverty of those we serve. It feels uncomfortable. I have no other way to express it. It costs.

I'd invite you to visit www.worldhope.org and see if you might find a way to join me on this new journey.

many thanks,
john

2010-06-05T08:20:00.001-07:00

a great memory from 2006. my best musical friends!

2010-05-22T05:22:00.000-07:00

puffs of air.

2010-04-27T05:41:00.001-07:00

Here I go, struggling again for the world to see! Now in my middle forties, I wonder where life has gone so quickly. I feel the pull of trying to "stay young, hip and relevant." I am now too old for many things in life...I don't even think the Army would take me! How did this happen??? Someone pass me an 8-track or a LP, I want to be young again!

I see it all the time in my work (a Membership/Wellness Director at a YMCA), people working out to stay fit, healthy and straining to hold onto to the vitality of youth. Don't get me wrong, I am straining to...it's why I run. But I see it's ultimately a losing battle. Letting go of this life is a true mark of getting what it's all about. I don't mean to cease caring either.

Let's face it, in our bathtub of life, the drain plug has been pulled! The water is decreasing...for all of us. The sooner we embrace that this life is not all there is...the better this life will become. "John, did you hear that?" [speaking to self]

^1-3 I'm determined to watch steps and tongue so they won't land me in trouble.
I decided to hold my tongue
as long as Wicked is in the room.
"Mum's the word," I said, and kept quiet.
But the longer I kept silence
The worse it got—
my insides got hotter and hotter.
My thoughts boiled over;
I spilled my guts.

^4-6 "Tell me, what's going on, God?
How long do I have to live?
Give me the bad news!
You've kept me on pretty short rations;
my life is string too short to be saved.
Oh! we're all puffs of air.
Oh! we're all shadows in a campfire.
Oh! we're just spit in the wind.
We make our pile, and then we leave it.

^7-11 "What am I doing in the meantime, Lord?
Hoping, that's what I'm doing—hoping
You'll save me from a rebel life,
save me from the contempt of dunces.
I'll say no more, I'll shut my mouth,
since you, Lord, are behind all this.
But I can't take it much longer.
When you put us through the fire
to purge us from our sin,
our dearest idols go up in smoke.
Are we also nothing but smoke?

^12-13 "Ah, God, listen to my prayer, my
cry—open your ears.
Don't be callous;
just look at these tears of mine.
I'm a stranger here. I don't know my way—
a migrant like my whole family.
Give me a break, cut me some slack
before it's too late and I'm out of here." (Psalm 39, The Message)

This Psalm says it best. The Bible always has a way of doing that!

a puffy stranger,
john

I want to be rich.

2010-04-24T05:36:00.000-07:00

I can't lie to you, I want an easy life. Nice house, car, money in the bank...health. No inconveniences. The problem is that my life couldn't be farther from this at the moment. Everything is uncertain except the love of God and my family. As much as I tell myself, "it doesn't matter", I am surrounded by American abundance. Almost calling out to me..."You should have this, if you were successful...you would have this...just look at the TV preachers!" In truth, I know where my affections should be placed. Not on the things of this world. But it's hard isn't?

I listened to Rich Mullins deliver a powerful thought amidst a concert he did just before his death years ago. The truth contained therein cemented for me, once again, that riches are not the marks of God's blessings. I must struggle against this wrong thought. I want to share a quote from Rich Mullins. Chew on it for yourself.

"Jesus said, whatever you do to the least of these my brothers you’ve done it to me. And this is what I’ve come to think. That if I want to identify fully with Jesus Christ, who I claim to be my savior and Lord, the best way that I can do that is to identify with the poor. This I know will go against the teachings of all the popular evangelical preachers. But they’re just wrong. They’re not bad, they’re just wrong. Christianity is not about building an absolutely secure little niche in the world where you can live with your perfect little wife and your perfect little children in a beautiful little house where you have no gays or minority groups anywhere near you. Christianity is about learning to love like Jesus loved and Jesus loved the poor and Jesus loved the broken..."

I think Rich was right. I think he got it on a level that I am just getting. I don't think he feared much in this life because he held so loosely to the things of this life. I want to be like, Rich.

john

Is God With Us?

2010-04-20T09:06:00.001-07:00

Someone recently shared an email with me that had this message (I checked it out and it IS a true story):
______________________________________________

"Washington, DC Metro Station on a cold January morning in 2007. The man with a violin played six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes. During that time approx. 2 thousand people went through the station, most of them on their way to work.

After 3 minutes a middle aged man noticed there was a musician playing. He slowed his pace and stopped for a few seconds and then hurried to meet his schedule.
4 minutes later:
the violinist received his first dollar: a woman threw the money in the hat and, without stopping, continued to walk.
6 minutes:
A young man leaned against the wall to listen to him, then looked at his watch and started to walk again.
10 minutes:
A 3-year old boy stopped but his mother tugged him along hurriedly. The kid stopped to look at the violinist again, but the mother pushed hard and the child continued to walk, turning his head all the time. This action was repeated by several other children. Every parent, without exception, forced their children to move on quickly.
45 minutes:
The musician played continuously. Only 6 people stopped and listened for a short while. About 20 gave money but continued to walk at their normal pace. The man collected a total of $32.
1 hour:
He finished playing and silence took over. No one noticed. No one applauded, nor was there any recognition.

No one knew this, but the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the greatest musicians in the world. He played one of the most intricate pieces ever written, with a violin worth $3.5 million dollars. Two days before Joshua Bell sold out a theater in Boston where the seats averaged $100.

This is a true story. Joshua Bell playing incognito in the metro station was organized by the Washington Post as part of a social experiment about perception, taste and people's priorities. The questions raised: in a common place environment at an inappropriate hour, do we perceive beauty? Do we stop to appreciate it? Do we recognize talent in an unexpected context?"
______________________________________________

If you are like me, there is a real temptation to think God isn't at work in our everyday lives. Frankly, there are days when I think, "I don't see God with me." If the above experiment holds a lesson we can translate to our walk with God it may be that He is more present that we can possibly imagine. Present like, "right in front of our faces" and yet we miss Him. Maybe it's religion that sends us to church expecting to "see Him" but in the everyday we disregard Him.

I am coming to believe I have a perception problem. That fact that I "don't see God" in the everyday of my life is not a "God problem" its a "John problem." Like the beauty of the music played and the masterful musician playing it, because it is not perceived does not diminish for one minute the empirical truth that what is occurring is extraordinary.

Because "I" have a sight problem, doesn't diminish our ever present God of the Universe one iota. HE IS WITH US. May we start seeing with the eyes of the children who were struck by the violinist. Kids see Him more than us adults, I am convinced. Time to pay attention and sharpen my perceptions.

john

what a friend.

2010-03-24T05:30:00.000-07:00

If you are like me you have known a friend in need. In the height of that need, we spring to action and in some cases; overwhelm them with an outpouring of care. What about after the initial crisis?

I think (and I realize these thoughts are highly subjective) we in America may not understand long-suffering. We prefer things resolve quickly. Who wouldn’t? But what if they don’t? What if we can leave friends in time of need far too prematurely?

Calls, emails, gifts, prayers, etc., perhaps end before the true need of assistance does. It’s the long days after the funeral, when everyone has gone home that the grieving widow may well need the persisting care. A few months after the diagnosis and the swell of care is waning, that’s when it’s needed most. The friend who’s been out of work for not just months but a year, and they feel utterly defeated. I think you get what I am trying to say.

The old hymn says it best:

What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield you; you will find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised Thou wilt all our burdens bear
May we ever, Lord, be bringing all to Thee in earnest prayer.
Soon in glory bright unclouded there will be no need for prayer
Rapture, praise and endless worship will be our sweet portion there.

Joseph M. Scriven, 1855

We do have a friend who sticks closer than a brother. This is true. However, we are not forbidden from sticking close ourselves.

sticking,
john

blessed

2010-03-22T09:16:00.000-07:00

Birds chirping, sky is blue, good relationships, no resistance, job going great…blessed! Right? And we should assume those walking through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, not so blessed? Right?

I was reading someone’s twitter and they were detailing all the wonderful things in their life and they ended with something like, “ridiculously blessed.” First, I found myself filled with envy. But wait! Maybe having everything going your way is not the greatest indicator of God’s blessings.

What is blessed? Can we be blessed walking through the most difficult period of our life here on earth? Can we be so centered in the loving hand of Father God that all is well even when nothing is going right? Can we say, “Ridiculously blessed!” then?

I am just asking the question.

blessed.
john

knees.

2010-03-04T18:44:00.000-08:00

I was reminded recently of the need to pray on my knees. As a friend was sharing with me a message he had just heard from a preacher in Atlanta, I felt a wash of conviction come over me. Not, condemnation...conviction. My face flushed and I "felt" compelled to return to a practice I truly believe in.

If you are like me, you may offer flash mental prayers far more than concerted, focused, on your knees and face before God prayers. "Does it matter?" I ask myself. I answer, "yes!" Do I engage in this often? Not enough. Conviction tells me to reengage.

I think you may find this sermon outline from Charles Stanley helpful. I did.

There is a battle raging in this life and I am grateful to my friend for helping me remember to meet with my Creator...on my knees.

kneeling.
john

.dreams

2010-02-22T20:45:00.000-08:00

It seemed to good to be true! A childhood dream came true back in 1989 as I met my guitar hero, Phil Keaggy. I spent an entire weekend hosting him and it even included the chance to play a little guitar together. I have this old photo to commemorate the occasion and it still makes me smile when I recall that time all those years ago.

Now well into my forties, I wonder if I dare hold on to any of my dreams or is it time to let go? Hmm...

My big adult brain says it may be time to "pack it in" and deal with reality but my little boy heart says, "go for it!" You just never know what God may do to grant the quiet desires of the heart. I am not saying He will but I am saying "leave that for Him to decide."

Honestly, what does it cost us to dream? My guess is we all have burned up more brain cells using our cell phones than we ever have dreaming. So I say, "keep dreaming, keeping dreaming till the day it is over here on earth!"

This is a great Psalm. Think about it. The Psalm I mean. Please read it and let it soak in.

Psalm 126 (The Message)

A Pilgrim Song

^1-3 It seemed like a dream, too good to be true, when God returned Zion's exiles.
We laughed, we sang,
we couldn't believe our good fortune.
We were the talk of the nations—
"God was wonderful to them!"
God was wonderful to us;
we are one happy people.

^4-6 And now, God, do it again—
bring rains to our drought-stricken lives
So those who planted their crops in despair
will shout hurrahs at the harvest,
So those who went off with heavy hearts
will come home laughing, with armloads of blessing.

God bless you with dreams.

dreamin'
john

The Power of Words

2010-02-09T21:10:00.000-08:00

I know that "actions speak louder than words." However, words have inherent power. I marvel at their strength. Words have moved me to laughter, tears and deep thought. Words are indeed life (or death).

To this day there are some words that have been spoken to me that still can carry a sting when I recall them. Conversely, there are moments when another human being has offered such kindness through what they said that in the remembering of what was spoken, I am heartened all over again. It makes me wonder if once we speak a word it somehow becomes eternal.

I truthfully know a good many things I have said that I would give anything to recover and keep forever from departing my lips. It is a painful realization to know I have uttered something to a fellow brother or sister that may have been lethal. For this, I ask the forgiveness of Christ Jesus and I am grateful for having a Savior who forgives my sins.

Proverbs 18:21 (The Message) says, "Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit—you choose."

I want to share a web site with you that contains some gentle words of life. Words that are medicine...they are the very thoughts of my dearest friend and my wife, Lori.

Just a few short months ago, Lori was diagnosed with breast cancer. We set up a CaringBridge web site to help friends and family stay up-to-date with her journey. Initially it was to convey medical updates; however, it has quickly become a source of life for many who read her thoughts.

Cancer is not thought of as a life giver but a "taker." Well in Lori's case, it unearthed an eruption of life in the form of written words. Still waters truly run deep and Lori has a voice and insight into many things. I am grateful for her and want with with all my heart for us to have many more years together. Her words have become more important than I could have ever imagined. I wish to share them with you.

You can visit her CaringBridge site here: www.caringbridge.org/visit/loriallison for a taste of something good.

sincerely,
john

God the Father

2010-01-31T19:32:00.000-08:00

I am learning that God is a true father. What do I mean? That He is infinitely closer than I realize. Aware, engaged and involved with every detail of my and your life.

As a father, I know sympathetic pain. When one of my children hurts, I hurt. Even when that hurt is caused by their own missteps. My heart is linked to them. I have vivid recollection of traumatic events in their lives. I have wept at times when they have wept. It's as if those moments are forever etched in my mind. I suspect there will be more in the years to come. I think it's my job to be here for them. As long as I can.

God is a Father. He is beyond all that I could ever be as a human father. As our Heavenly Father, His capacity exceeds anything we could imagine with our natural mind. While He does not exist for us, we exist for Him. Our place in history has been purposed. God has a plan and purpose for each of us in this life and beyond. Therefore, I know his eye is upon you and me.

I know not your circumstances but God the Father does. Be it a peak or valley, He is near His children.

I discovered this verse in the Psalms. I commend it to you and may you meditate upon it. May we all find strength in its truth:

Psalm 56:8 (The Message)

"You've kept track of my every toss and turn through the sleepless nights, Each tear entered in your ledger, each ache written in your book."

Rest knowing the Father is directing the affairs of our existence and keeping meticulous account of the details.

john

celebrity intolerant

2010-01-18T19:09:00.000-08:00

I am sorry but allow me to rant just this once. Why do we give such voice to celebrities in America? Talent is not equal to character. Yet we see time and time again the celebration of celebrity and the platform given to “them.” We then gasp in shock when the celebrity implodes under the weight of his or her own bloated fame!

Tiger Woods is a great golfer. Not such a great husband. I know GREAT husbands. They just don’t garner the big endorsement deals. My friend Jim is a great man but you won’t see a line of clothing with his name on it. I am sorry Tiger that we made you such a “god.” Emphasis on the little “g.”

I know that God honors the humble and the truly wise and prudent. The highest award given a man is to hear the God of the universe say, “Well done.” Maybe we have lost our bearings? Perhaps.

We are indeed a broken culture. But I suppose this soapbox will make little to no difference in the world of the famous. I just had to let you know that my celebrity intolerance is worsening with age. I just can’t choke down one more awards show…it gives me a rash. A fast may be in order to restore my system's balance. Oh…and I may have to abstain from Christian celebrities too. Did I say that out loud?

Here’s to all you great men and women out there that this world will never celebrate with riches and accolades. I want you to know that you are noticed and appreciated. God sees your good works and truly a reward awaits you in heaven. And to all you pastors who will never have your own TV show…may your words carry the weight of one having the moral authority to speak. God’s speed to you.

I salute you non-celebrities!

there…I feel better.
john

Cheaters

2010-01-07T04:55:00.001-08:00

I’ll go out on a limb and say we have all cheated in our lives at some point. Some of us may be cheating right now!

What do I mean? Well, not necessarily what one thinks in the classic sense when one hears the word “cheat.” I mean in a broader context. Let me explain…

Life requires much from us. The responsibilities abound and to shrink back from any one of them is, in principle, cheating.

It is a fact to live well in this body we must eat well. Yet many of us choose to cheat because it is easier to eat conveniently. I have read estimates that the average American consumes about 100 - 120 lbs of sugar annually. Yikes! Reports are that Childhood Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes are at an all time high. And while we search for cures, it’s no mystery why in some cases disease is rampant.

And yes I am going to quote Jack LaLanne again! I heard him say in an interview, “Dying is easy. Living is a pain in the backside you have to earn it!” In other words, “you can’t cheat in life to be healthy.”

I see a great correlation to all this in the spiritual journey. No we cannot earn our way into the heart of God nor can we reach salvation by working for it. His love is a gift and salvation is His mercy and grace. But, we do have responsibilities to live for Him with ALL THAT IS WITHIN US. Living is painful in that it is work. Maintaining love and relationships REQUIRES effort…no…demands effort.

With my best friend in this world, Lori (my wife) having had to deal with breast cancer this year, I have had this wake up call, I DON’T WON’T TO CHEAT ANYMORE. I don’t want to just grab a “handful of life’s cookies,” I want more because I know cheating has a cumulative affect. I want EVERYDAY to count with her and my children. I want to invest in the ingredients of preparing a healthy existence on this earth both spiritually and physically. That is plain old hard work, unrelenting, backbreaking, sweat producing, intentional and no cutting corners living. I know it is worth it! I MUST HAVE IT.

New year. New opportunities.

join me,

john

Peace On Earth

2009-12-23T19:17:00.000-08:00

There is so much hurt on this planet that it truly is staggering. Could there ever be peace? Jesus, has been called the "Prince of Peace."

It's not that life will be devoid of suffering and hardship. It's that there is one who gives us peace beyond all human reason to navigate the trouble.

Jesus is our peace. May the peace of God fill your hearts and minds this Christmas season.

Merry Christmas to all.

john

Spit It Out!

2009-12-06T08:10:00.000-08:00

Jack LaLanne is known to have said two simple rules of nutrition are: "if man made it, don't eat it", and "if it tastes good, spit it out."

I think about this around the holidays when we traditionally feast and have to smile and think..."no truer words!" Man made confections are delicious but simply have no nutritional value. When I think even more on this, I find great spiritual application.

Our world, media, music, culture, etc., are filled with "confections," wouldn't you agree? It's hard to argue against that which feels, tastes, looks and smells so good! How could it be bad for us? Furthermore, wouldn't a loving God want us to be fulfilled and happy, surrounded by that which makes us all feel so good? Or is there another reality?

I now believe God and serving Him will never be about personal happiness and satisfying "life's sweet tooth." I don't mean it's all doom and gloom! I mean serving God is not defined by how we indulge ourselves in American culture. Cars, houses, jobs, clothes, entertainment and the like are not the "fiber" of life. I think you all know what I am saying.

Just because something tastes good in this life doesn't mean it's good for us nor is it an entitlement. I leave you with the words of Oswald Chambers:

"Nowadays we have far too many affinities, we are dissipated with them; right, good, noble affinities which will yet have their fulfillment, but in the meantime God has to atrophy them."

pass the broccoli,
john

Grateful

2009-11-26T14:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all! Simply put, this year I am grateful to God for everyday. Each day is a gift and proof that we are in the heart and mind of God. Live it!

There's a line from a song that my good friend, James Casto wrote speaking of being grateful for the "love of my wife." I am so thankful for, Lori. She is my companion and dearest friend.

I recorded that song of James' a few years back, here it is for your enjoyment:

GRATEFUL (click)

blessings,
john

A Message

2009-11-16T18:25:00.000-08:00

Friends, for those interested, here is a link to a message I shared at The Father's House in Rochester, NY. Just click below:

http://www.vimeo.com/tfhny

You can find part 1 and 2 there. Hope it helps you on your journey. My thanks to Pierre du Plessis for the invite. I was blessed to be there.

Shoes and Food - That's Enough

2009-11-15T15:34:00.000-08:00

"Since we entered the world penniless and will leave it penniless, if we have bread on the table and shoes on our feet, that's enough." ~The Apostle Paul

Tonight. All is well. I have shoes and have had a meal. In a culture filled with excess, I can often feel like I don't have enough. Truth be told, I am wealthy beyond the wildest imaginations of most people in the world. I have no excuse. I must be generous! I am rich and generosity is a command!

My riches are in the simplicity of being myself before my Heavenly Father. My contentment is in this truth alone. No material possession will bring me contentment. Only knowing my Creator.

I have had a great day today. Celebrating my wife, Lori's birthday. A special one indeed as she recovers from surgery and wins the fight of her life. I also enjoyed speaking at The Father's House today. A great church with a generous spirit. Thank you to Pierre for inviting me and treating me like a true brother.

that's enough,
john

The Small Stuff

2009-11-04T03:50:00.000-08:00

Ever heard this, "Don't sweat the small stuff?" Last night I returned home after sitting in a waiting room all day long as Lori, my wife, was enduring nearly 8 hours of surgery to save her life. She did well, has a long road ahead but the sun is rising this morning...check it out! I snapped this shot with the Mac just seconds ago. God is good.

I cannot tell you how the events of this summer have put some things into perspective. I am embarrassed to think of what I have, at times, allowed to upset me in this life. If I could recapture every minute of wasted mental energy spent on things that were only annoyances at best...sigh.

I wish to move forward today with a new outlook. One of more patience, tolerance for my fellow human, and gratitude for each day. I know it will be a challenge but this is a lesson, I promise I will not forget. God has given today, this day, as a gift to us all. Let's not spoil it because someone or something inconvenienced us in some ridiculously small way that sends us off into a tirade of self pity. It's all really small stuff.

sweat-less,
john

Steps of Faith

2009-10-28T03:12:00.000-07:00

"This situation is nothing but a bump in the ground and another step of faith in life that you WILL GET THROUGH!!!!!!" ~Jonathan David Allison

The above quote is taken directly from our 10 year old son's email to, Lori. He was encouraging her in the midst of a great trial. I love the clear and compelling truth in it. Unwavering and sure faith.

I have been thinking of Peter's trek on the water and I think for the first time I really understand the whole sinking thing. All it takes to prevent us from sinking is "another step of faith." Just a step. Jonathan get's it!

As I am learning to navigate perilous times, I begin to sink when I "look down" and focus on the reality that I can't "walk on water." Of course you can't! That makes perfect sense, right? So why am I still afloat? Simply....Jesus! It's that "step of faith." Just a step.

It's not denial of the facts. But if like Peter, I look down at "reality", I sink. So I keep my eyes on Jesus and the impossible becomes possible! The crushing weight of trial and suffering is lifted and I walk on another step. The insurmountable mountain becomes a "bump in the ground."

Thanks to Jonathan for that reminder! And yes, we "WILL GET THROUGH!!!!!!"

stepping,
john

Hope

2009-10-19T23:22:00.000-07:00

On a cloudy day, the pessimist gets up and heads out the door without sunglasses. The optimist grabs the shades thinking, "the sun will surely shine today at some point." Guess who I can be?

Recently, I headed out of the house on a rainy morning. As I was leaving, it occurred to me that maybe I should take my sunglasses. I quickly dismissed the thought sure that I wouldn't need them on such a dreary day.

As I drove, the image you see here emerged from the sky (I snapped a picture with the cell phone). And me without my sunglasses! The glorious sun stayed out the rest of the day. Yet another lesson in optimism. I am learning!

⁵ Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul?
Why are you crying the blues?
Fix my eyes on God—
soon I'll be praising again.
He puts a smile on my face.
He's my God. (Psalm 43:5, The Message)

When the day is at it's darkest, the Son is shinning. Always.

grab your shades,
john

Life’s A Maze!

2009-10-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

I read this definition of a maze: an area of interconnected weaving paths that it is difficult to find a way through.

I spent nearly an hour and a half with our son, Jonathan in a corn maze yesterday. Actually it’s called the AMAZING MAIZE MAZE! And pictured above. I can tell you it was incredibly difficult to find the path out. Once you’ve seen one cornstalk…you’ve seen ‘em all! After awhile, they serve no purpose in assisting you on your journey. Trust me!

The only way you could find the end was by locating various mailboxes throughout the maze. Each mailbox had a piece of a map that was needed to help you navigate. With each piece came some sense of location and clarity. Without these markers, it was pretty much just a guessing game.

It was crazy as people passed one another in different stages of “lostness.” Everyone had the same agenda…to get out! It was chaos and a lot of fun. Well, until it got cold, and the sense of walking in circles became increasingly frustrating. You could keep playing the game or simply call out for help and a worker (high above the maze on a platform) would give you directions home.

Yes…after nearly an hour and a half, Jonathan and me were ready for some intervention. I looked up to the worker in the sky and in earnest I shouted up, “We are ready to get out of here now.” With a few quick directives, we were on our way. It still took some time but now we had a sense of direction and purpose. Our attitude changed quickly for the better. We found the end of that maze soon thereafter and it was glorious! Tired and frozen but happy!

Life’s a maze. It has a beginning and end. Along the way, much can happen to disorient us. We look for clues to make sense of it all. If you are like me, you have or will discover that you simply must call out to the one who has a perspective beyond our own, one who sees things from above.

I am asking the Father for perspective these days. I know He sees the beginning from the end. I truly believe when we call upon Him in our trouble, He’ll lead us all the way home!

amazed,

john

HerThe

But God.

2009-10-08T08:47:00.000-07:00

Moses said to the LORD, "O Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue." Exodus 4:10 (NIV)

I know there is great importance placed on credentials and qualifications in our society. Preparation, study, testing, practice, and experience all go into qualifying us for specific tasks in our world. We rarely get jobs, if ever, that we lack the background and necessary pedigree required to perform the tasks of the position.

But God. I believe He always asks us to serve in areas we just don't have the goods for. Like Moses. "Hey Moses, I want you to be my spokesperson." says God. Moses', response, "I am lousy at public speaking." "No, worries, I will help you speak and will teach you what to say." replies God.

God is leading me on a journey that I am not capable of undertaking on my own. I am weak and feeble in many respects. I lack the talent and eloquence. Like Moses, I want to protest and advise God that I am not His man for the job. But like with Moses, God's not accepting "no" for an answer.

I personally believe God delights in leading us in over our heads. To places where we look around and say, "What in the world am I doing here?" He loves to confound the wisdom of the day by working through the unlikeliest of candidates. I hope you aren't misinterpreting me. I do believe God honors hard work and preparation. It's just I believe to accomplish things for God is a superhuman matter. We just will never get it done...but God.

I have a feeling you are like me. The thought of walking through situations that eclipse our mortal strength is daunting and frankly, unsettling. If like me, God has led you to such a place today, take a deep breath and understand this: He's got us right where He wants us. Totally dependent on Him. You know, we can't do this! But God can, in and through us.

Once again, I am speaking from the crucible of my own experience at this time. I am walking on the water these days. And it's Him keeping me above the waves. Each step I am tempted to think I may sink. Guess what? But God! I am walking, me and my family.

So you are in good company. We all are in over our heads. It's almost laughable isn't it? To think that God calls upon each of us to work in arenas whereby ourselves...we don't belong. But God can carry us through and accomplish His galactic purposes through us!

thank God!
john

God's Promise.

2009-10-04T16:24:00.000-07:00

"I'm putting my rainbow in the clouds, a sign of the covenant between me and the Earth." Genesis 9, ~The Message

Yesterday as Jonathan, my son, and I drove out of a rainstorm I noticed a rainbow in my rear view mirror. It was the most intense rainbow I have ever seen. I stopped and snapped a picture with my cell phone camera (which doesn't remotely do justice to the colossal sight). Jonathan and I were both stunned. As we went on our way, it stayed in sight via the mirror for sometime. What's more fascinating to me is that I have seen at least 3 rainbows recently. Last week, I got caught in the rain while running. As I headed home, there before me was another giant complete rainbow. I was in awe as the last mile was me running straight towards that rainbow...all the way home.

I am now taking these sightings personally. Why? Because life is a raging storm at the moment. Lori's breast cancer diagnosis and the loss of our jobs have created a great tempest. Here's the thing, we have cried out to God for rescue. He's right here with us, keeping us afloat, guiding us along and giving us signs everyday. I believe in Father God with all my heart. I am just bold enough to think that He's calling my attention to these rainbows. They are majestic, glorious things that mark the end of a storm and serve to remind me God is very much a promise keeper.

Evidences of His promises are all around. They come in a loving gesture from a friend, a kind email, an unexpected gift, the prayers of others and the appearance of rainbows. We often call them coincidences and far too often take these happenings as of human origin or natural occurrence. Really? I submit they are God's fingerprints of his promise to care for those who place their trust in Him.

Father God has been pointing out to me that He's not left us uncared for. I am just crazy enough to believe he's been giving me rainbows as signs. How about you, seen any rainbows lately? God is all around us.

promise,
john

The Curveball

2009-09-30T17:35:00.000-07:00

We plan for a smooth life and then hope nothing affects it. However, inevitably the curveball comes! Something disrupts life. If you are like me, it can be interpreted as a negative. Don't you
agree? But here's something I just learned about a curveball. It's a dangerous pitch to throw.

Apparently there is increased topspin on the ball so if a batter hits the ball well, it will gain backspin thus giving it much increased distance. My translation: The pitch is an attempt to "do you in" as a batter. To strike you out! But if you handle it right....home run!

So your life just got thrown a curveball? Strike out? I think not. That which seemingly has been handed to you to throw you off has the potential to propel you farther than imagined. This curveball may well be a blessing in disguise that will, in turn, not only help you but others around you.

The book of Genesis puts it this way, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." Genesis 50:20 (NIV)

I wish I could convey the curveballs that have been thrown at our family these past three months. I confess there were moments that I wanted to give in to fear and doubt and accept the malicious pitch as the end of the road sending me back to the dugout. But here's what I am learning.

Myself and my family have been leaning into God. We are finding strength and proving our faith. These curveballs are pushing us forward in God at an incalculable rate! Shocking! That which I thought was our undoing, I see God working good in the midst of it all. I am grateful and more convinced than ever that God is near those who seek Him.

batter up!
john

Truest Love

2009-09-26T14:50:00.001-07:00

I just wanted you all who are reading to meet the love of my life, Lori. We have been married for 24 years and we are on this life journey together.

I also want you to know she's the finest woman on the planet with a true heart of gold. I cannot believe God has blessed me with her as a partner.

We've "seen fire and we've seen rain...we've seen sunny days that we thought would never end." We all know those sunny days do end and pesky storms sweep in. Good news! Those pass too. Sometimes those clouds linger, lighting crashes and the thunder rolls. Then. A hush. The storm passes as quickly as it can arrive and the sun breaks open again in the sky above.

May we all weather the storms of life and look to the Son....He's coming.

peace,
john

A Dog's Life

2009-09-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

It's been estimated that a dog's sense of smell is somewhere between 1,000 to 10,000 times better than humans. I think that's why they love to have their head out the window when riding in the car. Those smells coming into their snoot at 55mph must create quite a rush! Turbo sniffing!!!

Our dog Sam is no exception. He has an absolute passion about riding in the car. I snapped this shot of him this morning as we blasted down the road. I could only admire the thrill he was experiencing. I tried it...it only made my eyes water!

What if we all approached life like Sam does the opportunity to thrust his muzzle into the wind? Eager, passionate and ready to take it all in! I confess, I have missed my share of opportunities to "stop to smell the roses!" Or in Sam's case, hyper smell!

I have heard it said that dogs live in the moment. Yesterday and tomorrow have little relevance. they live in the now, baby! I am learning to do this deeply. Forget the past, don't worry about tomorrow but seize this day. Live it. LIVE. I just know there is a lot more to "smell than meets the eye" in this life. It's all a matter of our choosing. I say we put the windows down and go for all the day has to offer. Rain or shine. Like Sam, with gusto.

"Wake up from your sleep, Climb out of your coffins; Christ will show you the light! So watch your step. Use your head. Make the most of every chance you get. These are desperate times!" ~Ephesians 5:16, The Message

life's a ruff!
john

Dependent

2009-09-21T16:44:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been in a place of complete dependence on another for the ability to get through a day? Perhaps an illness that required someone else to look after your most basic needs? If so, you'll understand what I am about to say.

In my humanity, I prefer self-reliance. I want to take care of things myself thank you. You know, the "I can fix it" routine. Bottom line...it's pride!

God is leading our family through a time when we are learning what it means to count on Him each day for our daily bread. No kidding! Honest. I mean we are in a place of complete dependence on Him. Don't get me wrong, I am doing all I can do in this situation. However, my efforts are not sufficient. As I yield to this lesson, people arrive at our door, letters come in the mail, provision materializes at every corner. God is taking care of us. I am stunned.

Guess what else I am learning? God is real. You laugh. Absurd? However, aren't you like me and haven't you asked that question: "Is God real?" Even if we are "believers" I think we all have that thought in times of testing. Intellect demands proof, belief in God demands faith.

God is driving home His word to me in this hour. In particular, Matthew 6:4 which states: "Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes." ~The Message.

He has my attention and my complete dependence on Him. I am guessing there will come a day when I am "feeling my oats" and the press isn't so great. This I know, I don't want to go back to self-reliance. I feel His nearness to our family, His help amidst our trouble, His power in our weakness. This dependence thing ain't for sissies! You must be brave, courageous and have the guts to trust God for everything. EVERYTHING? Yes, everything....echo echo echo.

dependent,
john

The Night is Light

2009-09-15T17:34:00.000-07:00

Then I said to myself, "Oh, he even sees me in the dark! At night I'm immersed in the light!" ~Psalm 139:11 The Message

When trouble comes, the night really can be disconcerting. However, with God there is no darkness. Psalm 139 goes on to say "the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you."

I am learning to trust God in the night. Why? Because I am learning He is with me always. Though swallowed up by the clouds, He brings comfort and assurance. Cliches? I think not. This is very real to me in an hour of great trial. I speak the truth. God is proving to me that in Him there is no darkness or trouble.

Tonight on a brief walk with my son, I made the statement that we "need a miracle." My 10 year old calmly responded, "What trouble are we in?" I said, "Are you serious?" In my mind I am thinking of all that is before our family, in particular, a battle with a serious health issue that Lori (my dear wife and amazing mother of our children) is facing. It took this old brain a second to realize what he was saying. He reminded me that "God was taking care of us." He was reminding me that the darkness was outstripped by the light of God. Therefore, there is no trouble. I felt this amazing calm. I felt God speaking through this young boy in such a way that I had to pay attention. I am grateful for a child's uncluttered communication with Father God.

In the darkness tonight, I am reminded that God is shining brightly and caring for all that I cannot carry on my own. He cares for you too.

in the light.
john

A Sheer Gift

2009-09-14T07:31:00.000-07:00

"Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way." ~James 1:2-4, The Message

When trouble arrives at the doorstep of life...big trouble...how many of us think of it as a "sheer gift?" Sure, I'll dance a jig while the very fiber of my being is tested. Then again what is faith if it cannot be tested? What good is it to believe in God if it only remains in the realm of theory and conjecture? Is faith sufficient to sustain each of us through life's challenges?

I am learning about the "true colors" of my faith at present. Guess what? God is proving Himself trustworthy. Like I should be surprised!

It's becoming clear that in the midst of the heaviest of life's burdens, an attitude of joy is essential. I mean when the roof caves in, you don't deny reality but you learn to cling to a hope that only God offers. That produces sustainable joy.

What I share with you comes from the present circumstances of my life. This summer, many things came crashing down...a job offer rescinded, leaving us without jobs and most recently a major health challenge in our family with Lori, my wife of 24 years. I can tell you I have tried with everything in me to get out of this trial we did nothing to cause. I want to escape the pain and uncertainty. I want to say, "I believe" and be done with it. However, when I read this verse in James and it cautions to not attempt to end the trial prematurely, I find strength to surrender to it.

It is a sheer gift, for the test is proving faith. Faith in God. Faith that is unmovable. I'll take it.

john

In God Alone

2009-09-08T19:59:00.000-07:00

"My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him." Psalm 62:1

If a day could ever be "skipped" in our life, I would choose today. On a sun filled Tuesday in NY, our family received the most unwelcome medical report for my wife. I can't wish it away. I can't skip the day nor can I erase its contents. As I spoke with friends and relatives, it was becoming more and more surreal by the minute.

Now at the close of the day, we read in the Psalms the above verse. When we have nothing of self to rely on, it may well be the the best day of our lives. When all our plans have been foiled and our strength exhausted, what else can we do but find rest in God? God ALONE.

I am in over my head on this one, no answers and a hollow feeling inside. But for God, I know not where I would be. For now the trip to Atlanta is on hold. Now we prepare for a battle that God alone must fight for us.

In His Hands,
john

Sleep

2009-09-03T23:46:00.000-07:00

"At day's end I'm ready for sound sleep, For you, God, have put my life back together." ~ Psalms 4:8 from The Message

It's 2:29 EST, and sleep is desired but present circumstances compel me to be awake and pray. If you are like me, spiritual eagerness can often be eclipsed by sheer laziness. So this night I deny myself sleep on purpose. I use this blog to keep focused on the mission. Now I offer what may seem a contradiction: I need to sleep peacefully.

In many ways, sleep is surrender. It's yielding to fatigue or giving up worry. On the other hand, we all know what it means to resist sleep or lose sleep because of restless emotions. When the Psalmist David wrote the words above, he was encouraging himself in a time of distress. He was crying out to God to be heard. I wonder if it was 2 AM when he wrote it? I wonder if he was awake in the night pouring his heart out to God, incapable of surrendering His fretting to God? I don't know.

In the end, he concludes that peaceful sleep comes because of God. God, who makes him "dwell safely" (KJV) or as the Message puts it, "puts my life back together."

Like David I am saying, "God, take my side! Once, in a tight place, you gave me room; Now I'm in trouble again: grace me! hear me! ~Psalm 4:1b

I wonder who is reading this? Are you like me, in a "tight spot?" Wanting sleep but full of concern and distress? After we have petitioned God, may we collapse into peaceful sleep. Resting assured, He is capable and willing to put our lives back together.

sleepy,
john

Run to God!

2009-08-31T18:27:00.000-07:00

Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Proverbs 3:5-7 ~The Message

This Proverb has never been more alive to me then this very moment. It's almost like a blast of spiritual menthol! Opening every clogged aspect of my spirit right up. Why? I am about to move my family across country from NY to Atlanta. No promise of a job. Only the overwhelming sense that we have heard God's voice leading us in this direction.

In these final days in NY, I am seeing my great need to run to God. I literally am placing everything in His hands. My wife, children and very existence. I am so far out on a limb, I can't even see the tree!

These are not the musings of an irresponsible idealist whose head is stuck up in the clouds. I promise, I am well grounded and fighting my ever whirling mind demanding that I follow logic and reason. But this time, my spirit is being obeyed over my intellect.

If I run to God, intently, purposely, resolutely is this not faith? If I run to Him, will not my trajectory take me right to where I need to be? In His will? If I run, will He not keep me on track?

I was told recently that God cannot guide a ship if it's tied to the dock. However, He can adjust the course of the vessel that has set sail.

So we cast our lines off and raise the sail and trust the winds of God to guide us. I'll keep you posted. This is exhilarating. Truly. Adrenalin is pumping but I am trusting.

on the run,
john

The Cost

2009-08-24T05:18:00.000-07:00

"Simply put, if you're not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can't be my disciple." ~Jesus Christ, circa 29AD

This quote is taken from The Message, Luke 14:33 and it really is about as clear cut a requirement as there can be on the cost of following Jesus. However, let's be honest...most of us in the USA don't actually believe Jesus would require our friends, bank accounts, jobs, houses, cars, 401k's, etc., right? C'mon! It's a metaphor or sorts, it has to be. I mean...I can find more popular books on building wealth, having a happy and prosperous life than on embracing material destitution as a follower of Jesus.

I can tell you from a page in my own life that I am being tested to the core on this. Furthermore, in my heart I am praying that He doesn't actually require it all. Look I am being honest here. I can type "the right" words but my humanity is being barbecued at the moment. If he chose to take it all, would I yet praise Him like Job? May I answer, "yes!" However, I am still working through this.

A bright spot in this post? Yes! I watched a movie recently where it was proclaimed that "there are no happy endings." If you hang around this life on earth long enough, it would seem at times this is a correct assumption. However, skip to the end of the story of Job and voilà...a happy ending! Point? It will cost us everything to follow Jesus. It won't always be comfortable here. In the end, there is a fabulous conclusion to the lives of those who follow Jesus.

It has been written that Mother Teresa said, "Riches, both material and spiritual, can choke you if you do not use them fairly. The result is uncontrollable dissatisfaction. Poverty is freedom, so that possessions don’t keep us from sharing or giving of ourselves."

Perhaps as we have our grasp on things pried open and we learn to let go of this life, we will find our anxieties giving way to unimaginable joy as we share what is most important.

thinking,
john

Changing the World

2009-08-22T04:11:00.000-07:00

“Progress should mean that we are always changing the world to fit the vision; instead we are always changing the vision.”

- G.K. Chesterton, Orthodoxy, 1908

This challenges me deeply. I think about what church has become and have to wonder if the vision of church has changed to fit the world? Dare we attempt to change the culture/world? Have we focused on performance and becoming appealing to the world in the name of vision?

Chesterton makes a strong statement that we need to be world changers to see progress. I hear many say that change is hard and not altogether popular. People who are change agents are often despised for disturbing the comfortable.

Our world is changing, yes. With those changes, may we be committed to alter the course when culture is headed in the wrong direction. May we resist the urge to change our vision in the name of relevance.

I think this whole following Jesus stuff is difficult. It costs a lot and accommodates little. Yet it's rather simple. So simple that anyone can do it.

I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back.

john

Holiness

2009-08-20T07:24:00.000-07:00

“Holiness, not happiness, is the chief end of man.” ~Oswald Chambers

This is what I am wrestling with most these days. I WANT to be happy. That's it, right? It's all about what "I" want. I ask myself, "What does it cost to be holy?" If you believe, Chambers, holiness may come at the expense of our happiness. I don't like this!

Simply being honest. I believe God can handle this. Don't you? I believe God won't dispose of us for being honest. He knows our thoughts anyhow.

He knows that I do want to follow Him and be holy. He knows that my humanity isn't going down without a fight.

Perhaps we all have to learn how deeply He loves us. Even in times of hardship when holiness is being worked in us. There's an old hymn:

"Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Thou art the Potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me after Thy will,
While I am waiting, yielded and still."

Here's to Him having HIS WAY in all of us.

john

True Friends

2009-08-18T04:47:00.000-07:00

August 18, 2009

"For the purpose of this discussion, I’m defining a friend as someone who is with you. They’re with you in times of success, and much more profoundly, in times of defeat. They know the real you, and they like you anyway.

You can’t really run them off. And when you show them a weakness, it only causes them to respect and support you more. It’s a connection that defies logic and enables immense security." ~Steven Furtik

I read this and was struck by it's truth. How much energy is spent in our lives hiding? Hiding because we fear if anyone knew the real us, they would bolt! It is clear to me that people can't handle too much of who we really are. Hence, we guard ourselves vigilantly. However, with friends we can simply BE. They accept us, love us and want to hear it all. THANK GOD for TRUE FRIENDS.

May I be a true friend to others. I am GRATEFUL for my true friends. You know who you are. Perhaps we should spend less time trying to impress others and more time befriending. Less time attempting to be what we are not and accept who we are. In the end, those who surround the real us will be real friends. But what do I know?

your friend,
john