Archive for category Christian living

What comes next?

Apr 24

Posted by matrill in Christian living, church | No Comments

I’m going to share something about me that most of you do not know.

I used to be in a chess club. (I’m sorry if you were expecting something more shocking or exciting). You’ve probably never heard me speak about it, because it was a long time ago (middle school/junior high at Skycrest Christian School) and I don’t have any good stories. Although I enjoyed the game, I was never that good. No matter how many matches I played, it seemed that there was always someone one step ahead of me. In fact, in the middle of matches that I thought I had figured out, I would be rudely awakened by the reality that my opponent was seeing things I had missed. (Checkmate!)

Perhaps checkers is more your game. You know the feeling of a successful move. You eye the board’s layout. You spot the unprotected piece of your opponent. Confidently picking up your marker, you jump your opponent’s, and smugly pick up his captured piece.

Uh oh. Why does he have a grin on his face? Before you know what’s happened he is click-clacking another piece across the board picking up your pieces as he goes. Who knew that many consecutive jumps were even possible?

You never saw it coming!

And, thus, you learned the importance of looking ahead to your next move.

Imagine the situation facing the disciples. At Easter, we examine the reality and importance of the resurrection from our perspective of history. We read the Scriptures and examine the evidence. He rose from the dead. By faith, we accept it as fact. However, for the women who came to the tomb on the first day of the week, the experience unfolded moment-by-shocking-moment. For Peter and John, they first acted only on the testimony of those women. For Thomas, it was all hearsay for a while.

Plans were turned upside down. Fear seemed to strain at their faith. Doubts nagged at their hearts. Excitement was tempered by a measure of uncertainty. Sights and sounds wrestled with feelings and emotions.

For us, it is easy to read the Gospel narratives.

Resurrection. Appearances. Meals & conversations. Promises & assurances. A Great Commission. Ascension.

For those disciples, many of their next steps were unknown until they arrived. They were left to believe and obey what they had in any given moment. The same thing is true for us. We cannot see tomorrow. While we rest confidently in the promises and directions of God, there are still unknowns throughout life. Our is to trust and obey.

What’s next for you?

You made it to church on Easter. Great. Keep it up and make it a part of your regular schedule.

You’ve been challenged about the reality of the resurrection and the need for others to hear it. Super. Now share it with someone. Watch what God will do with your obedience.

There is something on the horizon that introduces a bit of fear or doubt to your life. Tackle it with the confidence that wherever God directs you in this life, He also equips you and goes with you!

That’s Good News for God’s children.

Ring it out!

Oct 14

Posted by matrill in Christian living, church, music, work | No Comments

Last week, Maribeth and I had the opportunity to attend an orchestra concert at Carnegie Hall that we enjoyed very much. During one piece, I noticed one of the performers in particular. He sat on a stool in the corner of the back row along with the other percussionists. However, for most of the song he did nothing. Finally, his moment came and he picked up his triangle and struck it several times in rhythm. It lasted for but a few measures of the lengthy song, and just as soon as he had started – the piece was finished.

In contrast, the percussionist in the center of that top row had five timpani before him. His part began in the first measures and lasted throughout the song until its thunderous conclusion. He was responsible for producing the percussive foundation for every other instrument that was being played. You could not help but notice him as his arms rose high above his head and the mallets came crashing down rapidly. At some points, his arms appeared as just a blur, and the sound of the drums hit you in the chest (even in the balcony). Others in that back row had bells, snares, cymbals, and even a gong.

And on the end was the tiny triangle. “Ting, ting, ting…”

One of the things you’ll discover is that percussionists interchange instruments for different pieces. The performer who begins on the bells may smoothly transition to drums or cymbals on the next song. So, our overlooked triangle ringer was fully capable of performing skillfully on any of the other instruments, and did so throughout the night. But for that one piece he had what was arguably the least important job of the entire orchestra. (I apologize to anyone who only played triangle in your school’s orchestra.) Perhaps overlooked and underappreciated.

But not by the composer.

As he crafted the music, a concept was in his mind. He labored expertly to transfer mood to melody, convey ideas through tempo and rhythm, and voice emotions in instrumentation. For the composer (and later, the conductor) each part for each instrument is important. If it is missing (or performed thoughtlessly or with little effort) the entire piece suffers. The music does not accomplish what the composer intended.

And so it is in our Christian walk and ministry for the Lord. He is the one who calls us and assigns our parts. He equips us and instructs us. He is the One with a plan to accomplish His purposes. He adds us to His church and orchestrates our service.

Sometimes, that includes work that is full of flourish and fanfare. It is recognized by almost everyone, and we receive heavy doses of appreciation and thanks. Other times, it is a job that is noticed by only a handful of people, and esteemed by even fewer. We feel like an overlooked and underappreciated triangle player in an orchestra.

A few biblical thoughts should help us with this. First, in everything we do, our service is ultimately done toward God. Second, He never misses even the least aspects of ministry done for His sake. Third, He is the great rewarder. Finally, although the job may seem insignificant, it can be a part of His masterplan for our lives, His church, and its work on this earth.

Colossians 3:23–24 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

So, if all you have to offer is a cup of water, share it with someone in the name of Christ. If your audience is just one person or a full stadium, give them the Gospel with prayerful enthusiasm. If you serve “behind the scenes” while others labor in the spotlight, do it for the Savior’s sake, and know that He is pleased.

If all you find to play is a triangle…Ring it with all your heart!

Trouble indeed

Jul 8

Posted by matrill in Christian living, crime, Current Events | No Comments

Troublesome times are here…

The opening line to a song I remember hearing as a child, singing with a quartet several years ago, and currently playing on my car’s stereo. R. E. Winsett wrote that song in 1942. I can only imagine what current events might have been in his mind as he penned those lyrics.

Troublesome times are here…

Yes, indeed. If you are not convinced of this, you are probably not paying attention. As the words to that song run through my head at this moment, I am reminded of a few key truths.

First, this is a disturbing reality. Sometimes, just looking at the newsfeed is all I can take. Maybe you feel the same way.

But then, hasn’t our world always seen distress since sin entered in the Garden? A wedge driven between God and His creation, Cain & Abel, physical suffering, societal conflict, slavery, abuse of power. The list goes on, and at every period of our history there have been troubled times. Certainly, we see it around the world today and in our own backyards.

Where do we turn for assurance or relief? Government or political movements? Is anyone really convinced that is the answer? The goodness of mankind? Even the optimist probably would not recommend that as a source of hope. In the midst of troublesome times we should join the psalmist in declaring that our hope is in the Lord alone (Psalm 39:7; 62:5).

Second, we have an opportunity. I have often said that as the days grow darker spiritually it becomes increasingly easier for true believers in Christ to shine as lights for Him. Simply fulfilling the basics of our Christian walk should set us apart in stark contrast to the world. Love like Christ loves us. Make decisions with wisdom and integrity. Keep your promises. Lead with humility and a servant’s heart. Demonstrate genuine forgiveness. Show compassion to those who are hurting. Share the Gospel with the lost.

I met a man recently who shared many of the disappointments he had experienced in his dealings with those that claimed to know Christ. Sinful conduct, calloused responses, both willful and unintentional harm. It sure sounded like the people who claimed to represent Christ had done a poor job of it. His perception and reception of Christ was tainted by people. Our opportunity as ambassadors of Christ is to present a clear testimony of His goodness in the middle of troublesome times.

The final thought relates to the theme and message of that song itself. The chorus joyfully proclaims, “Jesus is Coming Soon!” Rather than simply viewing that as our ultimate escape clause to leave this troubled world, we ought to consider the urgency and challenge of that truth. He is coming again, but has put us here to serve Him until then. Another song asks, “What if it were today?” We must obey and serve with all of our being in each of our remaining moments.

Long before Winsett penned the song’s lyrics, God’s Word gave us His divine promise:

And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. Revelation 22:12

As we echo the words of John may we also seize the opportunities of each new day. Even so, come, Lord Jesus (Rev. 22:20).

And the Beat Goes On

Oct 10

Posted by matrill in Christian living, Current Events, testimony | No Comments

It’s happened again. Another believer in the public eye has been hauled over the coals for something they said. This time one of the Duggar girls made a statement about our national shame surrounding the atrocity of abortion ending her thoughts with, “EVERY LIFE IS PRECIOUS.” Instantly, the opposition revealed itself.

In a fairly regular cycle, some Christian celebrity comes under fire for their perspective, words, or actions. As soon as the reports hit the media, the columnists from Slate, Salon, and the rest are offering their condemnations.

For a while, it seemed like Tim Tebow couldn’t smile at the camera without taking heat for his public faith. In fact, one of the most benign commercials ever produced featuring him and his mother was routinely bashed because of its anti-abortion stance. (I offered my thoughts about his situation back in 2011.)

While being interviewed in 2012, Dan Cathy (Chick-fil-A) clearly stated his personal and corporate support of the traditional family – marriage between one man and one woman. Suddenly, the boycotts and lawsuits from various groups hit the scene. Some colleges booted their stores off campus, and a California high school principal forbade the football booster club from selling their chicken sandwiches and waffle fries. (See here and here.)

Duck Dynasty’s patriarch Phil Robertson openly identified homosexuality as a sin according to Scripture and the howling dogs in the media were on full alert. The pervasive calls for tolerance were suddenly replaced with cries for censorship. (How ironic!) Never mind that Phil also identified adultery, idolatry, drunkenness, and extortion as sin when he referenced 1 Corinthians 6:9-10. Never mind that he also said, “…the Robertson family really believes strongly that if the human race loved each other and they loved God, we would just be better off. We ought to just be repentant, turn to God, and let’s get on with it, and everything will turn around.”

What is being overlooked in all of this is that these views and statements are really nothing new. For centuries everyday Americans – Christian and unbelievers alike – have understood that the Bible recognizes marriage as only between a man and a woman, homosexuality as sin, and abortion as murder. In fact, the great majority supported those views and lived accordingly. God’s Word has not changed. Our society has.

The truth is that this goes much further than even the founding of our nation. For millennia civilizations have for supported these truths. Even pagan societies recognized the internal witness of conscience that God placed within us and acknowledged some sense of right and wrong. Wise King Solomon told us that “there is no new thing under the sun.” Declaring biblical truth in words and actions is only radical today because of its rarity.

Perhaps instead of being shocked every time someone is attacked for their biblical perspective we should remember the words of Jesus Christ.

If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. John 15:19

Maybe we should also embrace the fact that there are spiritual benefits attached to this type of treatment.

Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Matthew 5:11

Perhaps we should be asking why it doesn’t happen more often. Why doesn’t it happen in our own lives more regularly? Why aren’t we personally feeling the heat from the world around us? If we are living out our faith as Scripture calls us to do the results should be evident. If our Christian walk is genuine others should notice, and some will oppose.

Finally, if you are discouraged because your personal faith or witness has been rejected recently, remember this promise:

Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 1 John 4:4

Ever heard of Amos Alonzo Stagg?

Sep 26

Posted by matrill in Christian living, football, work | No Comments

As of today, Amos Alonzo Stagg holds the record for most losses in the history of major college football. Over his coaching career he lost 199 times! Interestingly, he also used to hold the record for most wins, until Bear Bryant passed him in 1981.

Sometime Stagg’s long held record will fall. In fact, it could be as early as Saturday when Watson Brown’s Tennessee Golden Eagles face the University of Northern Iowa. After last week’s defeat, Coach Brown has struggled through 199 losses – with the next one likely to come at some point this season. Even though his teams have won 128 games, and he has led them to seven winning seasons, he will likely be better remembered for something far more negative – being the first coach to record 200 losses in his career. (Just to add insult to injury, his brother Mack Brown won a national championship at Texas in 2005.)

Watson Brown has been the head coach at several different schools including Austin Peay, Cincinnati, Rice, Vanderbilt, and UAB. Every time he came in with the goal of taking a struggling team or a fledgling program and making improvements. Sometimes he was able to do that, but never able to win more than seven games in a season. That adds up to a whole lot of “L”s on your résumé.

I read Watson Brown’s story this week and was encouraged. Sometimes when you are trying to serve well, things are just a bit trying. This has been one of “those weeks” personally. A struggle or setback here and there add up quickly. When you experience an unexpected loss you need a pick-me-up.

“Wait…encouraged by a guy who will be remembered as a loser?”

In fact, his win-loss record is not the full story. What must be said about Coach Brown is that his players – present and former – speak highly of his character and influence. They appreciate his investment in their lives and careers. His brother’s assessment was that Watson has always worked within the rules and guidelines. He’s never been reported to or investigated by the NCAA for infractions. Never had a violation during all those years. For 29 seasons as a head coach, he has worked hard and done his job to the best of his ability.

The Apostle Paul would summarize his life of ministry this way: I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 2 Timothy 4:7

Recognizing the high value God places on faithfulness, Paul ignored the miles traveled, numbers of souls saved, churches founded, etc. Surely, these could be considered accurate measures of his ministry. Yet, perhaps he understood that even if his ministry had taken a different course through the years – or had different results – he still would be considered successful if he remained faithful to God and His calling.

Maybe your week hasn’t turned out like you expected. Maybe even this year or longer. Maybe your best attempts to serve the Lord or others didn’t produce the results for which you had hoped. Perhaps you faced unexpected obstacles. Your attempt to witness was rebuffed by someone. Your efforts of service were unappreciated or ignored. The greater question is “Were you faithful to do what God asked?” If so, then consider your work a success.

A Song for Today

Jul 28

Posted by matrill in Christian living, music, testimony, TMI, Uncategorized | No Comments

Music possesses the mighty power to leave a lasting impact on our spiritual lives. Recently, I read about the background of the well-loved hymn, How Great Thou Art. Like many, this song is a special favorite because of its message and majesty.

Whenever I see this picture, I feel an emotional stirring in my soul and sometimes tears come to my eyes. Certainly, it is not because of the dramatic visual impact of this photograph! After all, this is a digital scan of a Kodak slide taken almost 35 years ago by a young boy with a 25 year-old Ansco camera. The color and quality is poor, at best, even after being retouched. (Slides don’t hold up as well as you might think). Yet, the strong feelings have more to do with the occasion associated with this slide.

I remember as a 13 year-old boy spending my summer in Scotland working on a construction project with Teen Missions International. After several weeks of separation from home and family, long hours of laying bricks and digging trenches, and cold, drizzly weather, I was feeling low physical and emotionally. I took a walk late one afternoon to explore and was talking out loud to God about what I was feeling.

About that time I discovered this wonderful vista of the River Ayr winding between the rolling hills. Having been raised in Florida (elevation 15 ft.), hills and mountains of any size seem especially majestic. Combined with the emotion of the moment and the spiritual impact of sincere prayer, I felt an overwhelming impulse to sing. The only song that seemed right was How Great Thou Art. It has always captured for me the goodness and greatness of our God and still reminds me of the wonder of those moments alone with Him.

The psalmist sang that the Lord had “put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: Many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.” (Psalm 40:3)

No one was around to see or hear me out on that hillside in 1980. But our day-to-day purpose as God’s children should be that others are seeing the evidence of His presence in our lives. They should be hearing our mouths filled with praise and thanksgiving for what He has done. It is not always accomplished by singing a hymn, although that is a wonderful privilege of our personal relationship and a vital component of our corporate worship. Rather, every word that comes out of our mouth should reflect our Savior. Even the countenance of our face can reflect Him.

What will your song be today?

He told the truth

Mar 14

Posted by matrill in Christian living, sports, testimony, words | No Comments

It made news. In fact, that one simple act drew lots of attention.

Two years ago in an Italian soccer match, the ball sailed in front of the goal and Miroslav Klose knocked it in. The problem was that instead of hitting the ball with his head, he hit it with his arm. One team celebrated while the other protested.

After a few seconds, Klose walked over and spoke into the referee’s ear. He told the truth and the goal was cancelled. Members of the opposing team patted his shoulders and congratulated him, and the story of one man’s honest act began to spread.

In contrast, Argentine player Diego Maradona is remembered for a goal that he punched in with his fist during the 1986 World Cup competition. When asked about that goal afterward, he evasively described it as “a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.” Almost 20 years later, he admitted on a television program that he had purposely hit the ball with his hand and knew all along that it was illegitimate.

Honesty is strikingly absent in so many realms of our society. We’ve all been hurt by someone’s trickery or deceit. People distrust politicians (and others) because of broken promises. A man’s word is no longer considered his bond. A handshake means nothing to many.

Years ago, Dr. Madison Sarratt, who for many years taught mathematics at Vanderbilt University, would admonish his class before a test with this thought:

“Today I am giving two examinations – one in trigonometry and the other in honesty. I hope you will pass them both. If you must fail one, fail trigonometry. There are many good people in the world who can’t pass trig, but there are no good people in the world who cannot pass the examination of honesty.”

As believers, we should be known for our integrity. Honest words. Trustworthy transactions. Honorable behavior. Consistent conduct. Through these traits we are able to fulfill our responsibilities as salt and light in the world. Commit today to demonstrate the change that God has made within you with every word and action.

Trillseeker