thoughts by Josh Grace

My Liberator – Revised

Josh Grace — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 14:45:52 +0000

In Jesus’ time, everybody was waiting on a “messiah” to rescue them. This person was going to set the Jewish people free of political and religious. There were a few political messiahs, but Jesus tried to do something a bit deeper than those messiahs. Like a bugle call before an epic battle, the message of Jesus was that of liberation from political oppression, religious oppression, and life oppression! Jesus spoke of a God who would not let them walk through life alone, but would comfort His people like a warm blanket fresh out of the dryer.

Those seeking to find freedom by dedicating their lives to following the rules and imposing those rules on others were not liberating anybody. They were not well received when they criticized him and tried to put him under the ultimate oppression, death. What they didn’t realize is Jesus was the ultimate Messiah because He came to liberate us from even death! He accomplished this through resurrection. This means followers of Jesus have nothing to fear: no person, ideology, government or power. There was now a group of people who had concrete evidence death is not the ultimate end, and the followers of this way would be resurrected in due time after their death of natural or unnatural conditions.

Today we still search for the same type of messiah. We search for an escape from our hurts and pains. Look no further than the one person in history who ultimately liberated all from rules, politics, and even death. My Liberator is Jesus. He raises my heart from the depths of depression and hopelessness every day.

What has Jesus liberated you from lately?

Pride and Corpses

Josh Grace — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 11:31:43 +0000

I have always struggled with the idea of pride. Pride in my life happens when I compensate for my insecurities by forcing my image over that of another person. The Bible speaks directly against this sort of life. I will listen to a song and think of how I would record it differently. I will listen to a sermon online and think of how I would deliver it as opposed to the person speaking. I will read a book and think of how I would phrase things differently. While it is important to be discerning at times, it is even more important to partake in the action of simply listening or reading instead of judging all the time. This also happens when I view the life of another and imagine how I would have lived differently. Some people see a celebrity in the tabloid and make fun of their trials. In this moment, are you a participant of grace or judgment?

True promotion happens when you apply for the task and try your best. That’s it; God and your hard work will fill in the gaps. It is not necessary to elevate yourself above others. Applying yourself to the task means working hard and making yourself available for change. If your life does not look like you would expect, then try your best and never participate in the demotion of others unless you are in an area of leadership that will be held accountable by their actions. Do not slander that person. The Bible in the book of James says we should instead strive to be a help to that person in humility and compassion. Always, always, always work hard to be a participant in life and love, and never, never, never work hard to promote yourself on the slain reputations of others. Don’t build the foundation of your life on corpses; build your foundation on God’s perspective and love.

Reflections on James 3

Josh Grace — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 12:46:00 +0000

Reflections on James 3

The words Enron, Nixon, or Benedict Arnold paint a very specific picture in my mind. I think automatically of scandal or treason. Dishonest people are rarely remembered for the accomplishments earned before or even after their folly. In this same light, people of public prominence are held to a much higher standard than the average person on the street. Words are very powerful. They could be spoken positively over my wife and continue to grow and foster the love between us. They could also be spoken over a young child and result in years of remorse and hurt. With our words, we can throw someone’s life into utter chaos or peacefully calm the storm existing in their path.

Although this is difficult for me to relate to (fortunately), but some people have never been told they are loved, beautiful, or any other positive comment. They have heard their entire life that they will amount to nothing and no one will ever love them. Some people who have heard those things still struggle with being loved and cherished by others. This is why being cautious with my speech is so important. I don’t know what kind of day or life my co-worker has had, but if I choose to speak life instead of death, it could make a world of difference in their life.

Now this does not mean we should withhold positive criticism. We must, however, be mindful with how we joke with others in order for our positive criticism to be perceived in a positive light. If I joke around with my buddy about how funny he has been smelling then later go up to him and ask him why he hasn’t been taking a shower, he is going to be less likely to tell me about his hardship of potential conflict with his spouse or even how his water has been turned off at home because he can’t pay his bills. I have missed a chance to make an impact on someone’s life just for a couple minutes of laughter. This is all hypothetical, but you never know what kind of struggles others are going through around you.

You are either on the team of encouragement or on the team of belittlement. If you are like me, you are mostly unaware of the impact you have on those around you. How is it possible to be a spring of fresh water instead of the salt on their wounds? Live wisely, humbly, and well. Try not to simply rely on your words to carry out your positive intentions because words might not be as clear as you think. If I tell someone how much I appreciate them, it might do wonders for their soul. Some people, however, are not affirmed by words. Go out and get them a card or write them a note. Take the time to show them how much you appreciate them. Be honest in how you talk to others and slow to speak so you won’t have to tell stories and make up the truth all the time. That is how God has provided a way for us to tame the beast within us. Treat others with kindness, love, and dignity.

Reflections from James 2:14-26

Josh Grace — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 12:26:01 +0000

Reflections from James 2:14-26

It is really easy to step back and believe there is a God out there who created or even controls the universe. Sure, big man in the clouds heaving lightning bolts all over and zapping those folks who swear or use His name in vain. When life gets difficult, I always ask myself, “Why is this happening to me?” It is very reassuring to think there is a purpose or a plan to my suffering as well as one divine entity orchestrating the whole thing for the greater good of mankind. What really happens, though, when the divine reaches for His creation? What happens when the big man in the clouds reaches down with his hands and feet to save lives in turmoil?

The church happens! As participants in the Resurrection and the Gospel, we have the privilege to act on God’s part as He leads us to reach out to the widow and the broken hearted. He enables us to show a way for the discontented homeless to rise up from the muck and the trash. He provokes us to care for the sick inside and outside of our realm of influence. James isn’t throwing down some theological conundrum or a paradox to confuse those he originally sent this letter to. James is saying that anyone can believe in God. He says even those who are completely against God knows He is up there. It is another thing, however, to be a participant in God’s movement here on this Earth today. Don’t let your opportunities for taking part in this movement pass you by. Ask God to reveal these moments to you and provoke your heart to take action. No task is too large or small. God uses holy men and prostitutes alike. You just have to be willing and open to make a change and open yourself up to the heartbeat of the Father of Creation.

Character and Nature

Josh Grace — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 14:12:59 +0000

One fascination I have had lately involves the unchanging nature of God. I have been a person wanting nothing more than consistency in nature and character. That is one thing that has attracted me to my wife. It is an aspect of people I have come to appreciate above many other favorable characteristics. Character is a trait within a person that consistently reveals itself within both good and bad situations. When times are tough, how do you act? When times are great, what is the first thing you do or go to? What is the true desire of your heart? Most everyone shows some sort of consistency here whether they realize it or not. Where do you fit in an honest reflection of these types of scenarios? Do you run away from situations or do you rest in the arms of a Savior who grants the peace and understanding necessary to rely on love and peace? Personally, I find it difficult in some situations to rest in that peace. I do find, however, when I rest in that peace, I just seem to get a grip on the situation a whole lot better. Misunderstandings clear up and hurt fades; suddenly everything makes sense! I rely on the character of God to help me through those tough times instead of my ever-changing nature. He has empowered me, and everyone who chooses to rely on Him, the ability to rest in his peace in conflict. The more we choose to approach situations and conflict from God’s perspective, the easier it becomes to allow your character to embrace and eventually be encompassed by His.

In all of the world, I have never found a love like Yours
Through torture, saints still praise You
In sorrow, hearts still cry out Your name
Removed from security, we can still find safety in You
Some search high and low for a love like Yours
Some search for an eternity, but they still fail to open their eyes and see what You have for them
I pray You open their eyes
Reveal Your never-changing love
Show them the love that has lasted from the beginning and will forever last into infinity
The love where all others find their existence
The love of God

Blessing people vs. being a blessing to people

Josh Grace — Wed, 12 May 2010 19:50:49 +0000

Yesterday, I was at work and plagued with the thought of doing some online coursework. I had to read a few sections and do a couple quizzes. In response to this, my (now) lovely wife told me she would have food prepared for my arrival to our home from work. This excited me so much! Now the task of preparing a meal was not up to myself but was a shared task where my significant other and life partner came through for me when I needed it. She was the foundation of my faith and existence in this moment. She was (and still is) God’s appendages reaching out to my soul. . .

People are awesome, well at least some people are. As a Christian, I have experienced many people praying blessings my way. This is a nice thing, but the nicer thing is when these folks decided to work on God’s behalf and be the blessing in my life. This has happened to me countless times, and I honestly would not be in the mental or financial state which I currently reside had it not been for a few people going with the subtle tug upon their heart and blessed me. How I see it, our taking on the responsibilities of others or acts of kindness are exactly like God working on their behalf. These acts are birthed out of a (hopefully) genuine love for the person who is in need. This love is birthed from the author of all love (God is love after all). We are then the “hands and feet” of God on this earth when we step forward in this process. Are you catching on?

The thought is simple yet revolutionary. Continue to wish and pray blessings on folks all you want to but please don’t ignore a need where you feel the tug to assist when it is there. What’s in it for the giver? Who cares? Just do it out of an honest love for your friend in need. Maybe one should be looking for occasions to give more instead of incentives to give less. Seriously people, let’s learn to love. I know you have it in you.

Grace and peace,
Josh

Creativity

Josh Grace — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 18:35:17 +0000

There is something very right about writing on a pad of paper with a pen. It is almost like my hand is waltzing with the writing utensil during his core of cleaning up this blank piece of paper. It is intentional. It is cathartic. The ink flows out of the pen onto the paper exactly where it is supposed to. Creativity is much the same. It is as simple as breathing or eating. It is just living the life we are supposed to live. It isn’t always easy, but it can’t be coerced. It is flawless, but it isn’t always pretty. There is a transition, however, not everyone was meant to take. With much time and dedication, creativity can become inspirational. People can make mundane tasks extraordinary. This is a call to find you creativity. Dream and be honest with you dreams. Create beauty around you with the intention of creating beauty. Allow yourself to be inspired. Pray, mediate and allow God to revive your soul.

However

Josh Grace — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 13:40:06 +0000

More than a month ago God spoke to me. I do not use that term lightly. I wrote down what I felt would dictate the next season of my life. It was a prophecy whispered into my ear. God was warning me of oncoming change, and I wasn’t too sure what to think of it. My condition at the time was decent; finances, family and work were alright but not the best. I sent this message to a few people to get their opinion, but I didn’t see a ton of response from it. It was difficult for me to write and send, but I did get the prayer and support from the people I expected. Then it happened. My foundation was shaken. Every relationship in my life became complex. Anxiety gripped me in a very tangible way. I reached out for some I felt could help, but distance was made instead. I felt like I was drowning and the few people attempting to pull me out of my situation wasn’t enough. I took time off work because I was physically ill. I slept for hours or sat in my room in the dark. My situation because so unbearable that I shut off everybody for a day or so and did not leave my cave of disappear. This really happened to me. The only voice I heard was my own and a couple others. Everywhere I turned situations were closing in on me. Frustration, Anxiety, Failure, Disappointment, Inability and Destruction were my friends. However, I did not completely let go of the couple voices in my life. My mother and Ashley voiced their concern, and I listened. I sought help from a source who I knew could help . . . medication! I went to my doctor for help, and the man turned me down! He referred me to a therapist who was booked until the middle of December! I didn’t know where to turn. I found someone who had an opening but was not covered under my health insurance but at this point I was not thinking clearly. I drove down the street fueled by anxiety and fear of destruction. The still small voice whispered, “Insurance!!!!” I called my insurance company to see who was covered in the area, they listed a few names and numbers, and I left 3 voicemails before speaking with a person. They were not seeing any new clients! They did say, however, there was an opening for one of the associates the next day. My life was starting to change course.

When I was in a rush, I did not ask myself to research their approach or where they studies. I will say God dictated my steps. Diagnosis . . . not crazy! I didn’t understand until a month later the true extent of those words. She indirectly helped me witness the miracle God has been performing in my life this whole time. Cures and safeguards were set into place through periods of my life that I didn’t initiate. With the aid of a few relaxation techniques and (what I use now as) prayer techniques, my life was uncovered by the thick wet blanket of fear and anxiety. Colors were brighter. Smells were smellier. I could think clearly. I could dream! I started to embark on the next journey of my life with the God-given ability to dream and be full of hope.

Situations like these squash people’s dreams. I pray for those folks who did not respond or respond well to me when I told them what God has spoken to me. I am more than okay now, but I request for all of you to be sensitive to these moments. God wants us to transform good intention into good action when our friend is struggling. I have failed in this area before, but I am much more sensitive to this now. I challenge you to search out these people when the warning signs are out there. Not everyone is as fortunate as I was to have close family to act as God’s hands and reach out to them. I pray all of you are able to dream and be full of hope.

Grace and Peace,
Josh

By the way, my creative juices have been geared intensely behind one big initiative. Expect more word on this soon.

Don’t Stop Believing!

Josh Grace — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 15:16:29 +0000

Don’t Stop Believing

Thanksgiving was amazing, but it prevented me from starting my new direction of posts. This first one is a simple introduction and a video. I am going to share what I have been struggling with in view of dreams and where this fits with view of self, others, life and God. God wants us to dream of where we will be in the next few years and supports us with telling us when we quiet ourselves and listen to our hearts and souls whispering to us our true desires. If we are not sensitive to these dreams we will not be whole. If you have any input or perspective on this stuff put a comment in this post. I am looking to write more on Saturday and the coming weeks on the subject of dreaming.

Pay Intention

Josh Grace — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 20:16:25 +0000

I have recently resolved to keep this thing updated regularly with bits and things I think of and are wrestling with in my life. Let me spend this initial post to explain one of the few facets of my life I find near and dear. Intention.

I strive to live an intentional life. Most of it I haven’t had the capacity to reach out and do much for others. I am not talking about selling all I have and feeding the homeless, but I am referring to simpler acts. Ask that person how they are doing whom you have been thinking about. Buy that coworker lunch that you have been “promising” to do so. Wake up earlier and go on that jog you have been wanting to. Compliment that person’s outfit you are thinking about (even a couple days after the fact). Speak to that relative who you haven’t because of one issue or another. This week, do something intentional. Start small then next week do two of those. The next week try to do something every other day. Eventually make this a habit. There are many injustices done to many every day, and you can make a difference by just recognizing the person next to you. Seriously. Look at them. Give them the “what’s up” head nod.

Let’s begin to intentionally do those things we always have the passing thought to do. I am starting with this blog. I want to intentionally share some form of encouragement and challenge that take a moment to hear my voice. Spread the word and share some ideas with me. I would love to hear some feedback and start some good conversation.

Peace,

Josh