We are getting ready to head out on our annual California Tour! I am so excited! Yesterday, we spent packing and getting ready for that. Of course, after Cali Tour, we have Christmas Break. I can not wait to go home.
In class today, we sang hymn 626. It goes like this:
Let us sing a song that will cheer us by the way,
In a little while we're going home;
For the night will end in the everlasting day,
in a little while we're going home.
In a little while, in a little while,
We shall cross the billow's foam;
We shall meet at last,
When the stormy winds are past,
In a little while we're going home.
We will do the work that our hands may find to do,
In a little while we're going home;
And the grace of God will our daily strength renew,
In a little while we're going home.
We will smooth the path for some weary, way-worn feet,
In a little while we're going home;
And may loving hearts spread around an influence sweet!
In a little while we're going home.
There's a rest beyond, there's relief from every care,
In a little while we're going home;
And no tears shall fall in that city bright and fair,
In a little while we're going home.
What powerful words! I know most of us were thinking about our earthly homes when we sang this morning, but we were all also thinking about our heavenly homes. We are getting ready to go home, even today. So let's load the bus!
Monday, December 5, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Senior Survival
"Go get your packs and meet me out back. You have 5 minutes."
The noisy speaker crackles, bringing every grade 12 student to full awareness. These words have long been waited for, dreaded by some, longed for by others. We all know that the day is coming when we will be called from our cozy spots in the warm school building to the buses waiting for us outside. Five minutes after the call is made, they will roll off campus and carry us to the most astounding part of our Health Class experience: Senior Survival Camp-out.
I don't know about you, but I am looking forward to the “Senior Survival” experience of Life. That will be the day when Jesus calls us to come home with Him. So many people dread that day. They hide from the consequences that their current actions will give them then. Others, however, can't wait to experience that most glorious, astounding moment of their Christian experience, when at the trumpet sound and the voice of God, all people in the world will be snapped to attention by their Savior descending to meet them face to face.
In Health Class, we have been getting super ready for the awaited day. Mr. Ras. has made 100% sure that we will be prepared, so long as we listen to his instructions. There will be no ten-virgin parables in this class, if we pay attention. Everything from shelter-building to fire-starting to wild edibles; I've tried to learn as much as possible. In fact, studying this material has invaded every other part of my life. I quiz myself as I walk down to school. While I harvest, I work on identifying the “bothersome weeds” that may end up save me from starving in an emergency. I know the material, I just need to practice it.
Christ has made all provisions for me, to make sure that I am ready to join His kingdom. As I go about my day, I work on the Bible verses I have memorized. These portions of the Bread of Life will keep me from starving when the epic test of faith comes.
What ways has preparation changed your life? Have you devoted the time and energy into learning the inspired material provided? Are you practicing trusting your teacher? Remember that He knows which things are “edible” and which are not? Is your pack ready, checked and rechecked by the capable hands of your Master? Are you ready for the day when the loud trumpet sounds, and the voice of the archangel shouts,? Always be ready! You never know, you may only have five minutes!
“Prepare to meet your God, O Israel.” Amos 4:12 NIV
The noisy speaker crackles, bringing every grade 12 student to full awareness. These words have long been waited for, dreaded by some, longed for by others. We all know that the day is coming when we will be called from our cozy spots in the warm school building to the buses waiting for us outside. Five minutes after the call is made, they will roll off campus and carry us to the most astounding part of our Health Class experience: Senior Survival Camp-out.
I don't know about you, but I am looking forward to the “Senior Survival” experience of Life. That will be the day when Jesus calls us to come home with Him. So many people dread that day. They hide from the consequences that their current actions will give them then. Others, however, can't wait to experience that most glorious, astounding moment of their Christian experience, when at the trumpet sound and the voice of God, all people in the world will be snapped to attention by their Savior descending to meet them face to face.
In Health Class, we have been getting super ready for the awaited day. Mr. Ras. has made 100% sure that we will be prepared, so long as we listen to his instructions. There will be no ten-virgin parables in this class, if we pay attention. Everything from shelter-building to fire-starting to wild edibles; I've tried to learn as much as possible. In fact, studying this material has invaded every other part of my life. I quiz myself as I walk down to school. While I harvest, I work on identifying the “bothersome weeds” that may end up save me from starving in an emergency. I know the material, I just need to practice it.
Christ has made all provisions for me, to make sure that I am ready to join His kingdom. As I go about my day, I work on the Bible verses I have memorized. These portions of the Bread of Life will keep me from starving when the epic test of faith comes.
What ways has preparation changed your life? Have you devoted the time and energy into learning the inspired material provided? Are you practicing trusting your teacher? Remember that He knows which things are “edible” and which are not? Is your pack ready, checked and rechecked by the capable hands of your Master? Are you ready for the day when the loud trumpet sounds, and the voice of the archangel shouts,? Always be ready! You never know, you may only have five minutes!
“Prepare to meet your God, O Israel.” Amos 4:12 NIV
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Freedom?
Today at 8:46 AM, several of us students had a memorial service remembering those who died ten years ago today. "Taps" was played, flags were raised to half mast. Moments of silence were taken, and prayers said. A speech was made, and anthems were sung. I never realized how devastating those attacks were to the United States. 2,996 people lost their lives that day. The sacrifice that they made, to many people around the world, represents the cost of freedom.
So many people have died in the course of history for the freedom of this nation. Many battles have been fought and countless lives lost to secure freedom, but I want to turn our thoughts to the one person who died for the freedom of the entire world. Why was His sacrifice so much more emancipating than the other lives that were lost?
"Jesus said 'Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever.
Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.'" (John 8:34-36 NKJV)
Free indeed! That is more than just freedom here on earth, but freedom for eternity. To me, that is so much more important than freedom here for a little while. However, just like here, freedom is a a choice that each one of us has to make. We can chose to be free from sin and slavery, or we can let ourselves be made captive by Satan and our own desires. What is your choice today?
Monday, June 13, 2011
Thunderings!
The other day was an amazing day. The weather was beautiful, and sunny. Then suddenly there came a rain storm. It wasn’t too wet, but down the valley, we could hear thunder. I even saw the flash of lightning once. It was such a comfort to me. I had missed the thunderstorms that we have at home sometimes, and was glad to hear rumble and feel the power of the storm.
In Bible class, we have been studying the Seven Trumpets of Revelation 8-11. One of the things we were looking at was “voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake” in Revelation 8:5. When I was sitting there, listening to the thunder, I heard the rumbling of the Bible truth: Jesus is coming soon! I heard the power of the message. Jesus is coming soon!
Accept this message in your heart. God will put His power in your life so that you can be a powerful witness for him.
In Bible class, we have been studying the Seven Trumpets of Revelation 8-11. One of the things we were looking at was “voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake” in Revelation 8:5. When I was sitting there, listening to the thunder, I heard the rumbling of the Bible truth: Jesus is coming soon! I heard the power of the message. Jesus is coming soon!
Accept this message in your heart. God will put His power in your life so that you can be a powerful witness for him.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Canoe Camping
Last weekend, my school went on a campout. Within that campout, there were two options: one, we could stay with the main group, or two, we could go on a canoeing campout. There was limited space for the canoeing trip, but I was blessed enough to be able to go. My friend Wayanne said that we could share a tent. From there, we decided to do everything else together, including cooking and canoeing. At breakfast the day we left, we organized our meal plans and packed our food for the weekend. Shortly after that, we were off.
There were 73 people that went on this campout all together and just a little over 20 of those people went canoeing. We had lunch with the main group, and then headed out onto the water. After a couple hours of zigzagging through the water, we finally made it to the camp site. Our canoe was the first one to scrape against the gravelly shore.
All in all, it was a great weekend. I got plenty of sleep, spent quality time with friends, and ate great camp food. The challenge came when we headed home.
After breakfast, we packed everything up, cleaned our campsite and headed out. After thanking God for the weekend, and asking His protection on our safe return, we headed out. All the way from the start of the trip, Wayanne and I were in the back of the line. We tried to apply force to our paddling, which helped momentarily, but we soon would fall behind again. For most of the way we were in the back of the line, struggling to keep up. We felt invigorated by our restful weekend, but it wasn’t enough to keep us with the group.
For most of the trip, I was frustrated. “Why aren’t we moving?” I wanted to be with the rest of the group, but it just wasn’t working. Finally, I remembered a verse that my morning worship group has been memorizing: “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1:2-4 KJV)
I was uplifted by remembering this verse. It was also encouraging to know that memorizing Bible verses really does pay off! Being patient helped me enjoy my trip, and made the time pass more quickly.
When you are faced with trials and difficult circumstances, trust in God. Understand that God knows what He’s doing. By testing your faith, He can build your patience so that you can be more like Him.
There were 73 people that went on this campout all together and just a little over 20 of those people went canoeing. We had lunch with the main group, and then headed out onto the water. After a couple hours of zigzagging through the water, we finally made it to the camp site. Our canoe was the first one to scrape against the gravelly shore.
All in all, it was a great weekend. I got plenty of sleep, spent quality time with friends, and ate great camp food. The challenge came when we headed home.
After breakfast, we packed everything up, cleaned our campsite and headed out. After thanking God for the weekend, and asking His protection on our safe return, we headed out. All the way from the start of the trip, Wayanne and I were in the back of the line. We tried to apply force to our paddling, which helped momentarily, but we soon would fall behind again. For most of the way we were in the back of the line, struggling to keep up. We felt invigorated by our restful weekend, but it wasn’t enough to keep us with the group.
For most of the trip, I was frustrated. “Why aren’t we moving?” I wanted to be with the rest of the group, but it just wasn’t working. Finally, I remembered a verse that my morning worship group has been memorizing: “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1:2-4 KJV)
I was uplifted by remembering this verse. It was also encouraging to know that memorizing Bible verses really does pay off! Being patient helped me enjoy my trip, and made the time pass more quickly.
When you are faced with trials and difficult circumstances, trust in God. Understand that God knows what He’s doing. By testing your faith, He can build your patience so that you can be more like Him.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Backhoe Driver
The other day, in PE, my class helped the people working campus clean up the entry way to our school. They were working towards planting grass, but they had to get rid of as many rocks as they could first. That was where we came in. Our PE teacher wanted us to help gather rocks. One of the guys climbed into the backhoe and followed along behind us. Slowly, we worked on picking up all the larger rocks, and throwing them into the backhoe’s bucket. We soon got a system going. Our class formed a line, so that we covered as much as we could. There were people out on the end of the line that had plastic buckets, so they didn’t have to go to the backhoe each time they picked up a rock. I was one of those people.
As time went on, our line got a little staggered. Some people stayed with the backhoe, and some skipped on ahead. Others fell behind. I was also one of those people. Some of the others who also fell behind asked me if they could put their rocks in my bucket, since the backhoe was a ways away. “Of course” I would tell them, “That’s what I’m here for!”
Gradually, my bucket got full. It almost got to the point where I couldn’t carry it anymore. I finally had to empty my bucket. I slowly made my way to the backhoe. Once there, I heaved my relatively little bucket up to the large metal bucket. Oh how light it felt after I emptied it!
The driver was careful of all of us. He made sure that none of us got ran over, and that we all were able to put our rocks into the metal bucket. He often encouraged me to empty my bucket by slowing down his speed so I wouldn’t be afraid to come near to the machine.
I know of another “Backhoe Driver” who behaves much like ours did that day. In our everyday lives, I pick up burdens, and so often, I put these burdens in my own little bucket. I add weight to my life. People also give me their burdens to carry; they ask if they can lean on me. Slowly but surely, I find that I have a back-breaking load. What can I do but give it all over to Him?
The Driver calls to me “Take My yoke upon yourself and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your soul. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
(Matthew 11:29-30 NKJV) He will carry the weight for me; I know that I can’t carry it on my own.
Jesus asks you to give Him all your burdens. Why should you carry them, when you have a Backhoe Driver who will take them all for you?
“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:6-7 NKJV
As time went on, our line got a little staggered. Some people stayed with the backhoe, and some skipped on ahead. Others fell behind. I was also one of those people. Some of the others who also fell behind asked me if they could put their rocks in my bucket, since the backhoe was a ways away. “Of course” I would tell them, “That’s what I’m here for!”
Gradually, my bucket got full. It almost got to the point where I couldn’t carry it anymore. I finally had to empty my bucket. I slowly made my way to the backhoe. Once there, I heaved my relatively little bucket up to the large metal bucket. Oh how light it felt after I emptied it!
The driver was careful of all of us. He made sure that none of us got ran over, and that we all were able to put our rocks into the metal bucket. He often encouraged me to empty my bucket by slowing down his speed so I wouldn’t be afraid to come near to the machine.
I know of another “Backhoe Driver” who behaves much like ours did that day. In our everyday lives, I pick up burdens, and so often, I put these burdens in my own little bucket. I add weight to my life. People also give me their burdens to carry; they ask if they can lean on me. Slowly but surely, I find that I have a back-breaking load. What can I do but give it all over to Him?
The Driver calls to me “Take My yoke upon yourself and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your soul. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
(Matthew 11:29-30 NKJV) He will carry the weight for me; I know that I can’t carry it on my own.
Jesus asks you to give Him all your burdens. Why should you carry them, when you have a Backhoe Driver who will take them all for you?
“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:6-7 NKJV
Monday, May 16, 2011
Swim Harder
Many who are qualified to do excellent work accomplish little because they attempt little. (Help in Daily Living, pg. 43)
“AHH! This is so cold,” I screamed as I stepped warily into the freezing pond on the lower end of our campus. Katie was already in up to her knees in the water. Determined to swim at least a little that day, Katie and I headed down to the pond. By the time I was finally up to my knees in the water, Katie was already swimming around. She was planning to do 30 laps across the pond. I didn’t even consider it. There was no way I would be able to stay in that water long enough to swim one lap, not to mention 30.
I finally decided to jump in, head long, and swim frantically towards the floating dock. About half-way there, my legs started to cramp up, which made any progress completely dependent on my arms. I made it to the floating dock in record time; there was no way I would stay in the water for much longer than record time!
I hauled myself up onto the floating dock and sat there, watching Katie swim back and forth. She ended up only doing 21 laps, but that was still 21 more laps than I did. When I decided that it was time to head back to the dorm, I forced myself to muster the courage to get back into the water. I finally slipped into the frigidness, and paddled back to the shore.
I did enjoy my time at the pond, but I could have gotten more out of it if I had tried. Instead of swimming the most I could, I tried to swim the least. I didn’t try to swim a lot, so I didn’t think I could.
In my Christian walk, I sometimes don’t want to do things that I’m not used to doing. I want to stay warm in my “comfort zone” instead of doing hard things for God. But if I was to apply myself to what He calls me to do, I would be able to accomplish so much for His cause! Will you attempt to do more for God today?
“AHH! This is so cold,” I screamed as I stepped warily into the freezing pond on the lower end of our campus. Katie was already in up to her knees in the water. Determined to swim at least a little that day, Katie and I headed down to the pond. By the time I was finally up to my knees in the water, Katie was already swimming around. She was planning to do 30 laps across the pond. I didn’t even consider it. There was no way I would be able to stay in that water long enough to swim one lap, not to mention 30.
I finally decided to jump in, head long, and swim frantically towards the floating dock. About half-way there, my legs started to cramp up, which made any progress completely dependent on my arms. I made it to the floating dock in record time; there was no way I would stay in the water for much longer than record time!
I hauled myself up onto the floating dock and sat there, watching Katie swim back and forth. She ended up only doing 21 laps, but that was still 21 more laps than I did. When I decided that it was time to head back to the dorm, I forced myself to muster the courage to get back into the water. I finally slipped into the frigidness, and paddled back to the shore.
I did enjoy my time at the pond, but I could have gotten more out of it if I had tried. Instead of swimming the most I could, I tried to swim the least. I didn’t try to swim a lot, so I didn’t think I could.
In my Christian walk, I sometimes don’t want to do things that I’m not used to doing. I want to stay warm in my “comfort zone” instead of doing hard things for God. But if I was to apply myself to what He calls me to do, I would be able to accomplish so much for His cause! Will you attempt to do more for God today?
Friday, April 29, 2011
Perspective
This semester, my class has been working on writing a devotional book. I finally have all my essays written and turned in. Using quotes from the book "Help in Daily Living" as the basis, we built our essays with experiences from our own lives.
Looking back at the ways God has lead me, and looking for meaning in everyday experiences has really helped my perspective. Instead of complaining about the piles of dishes to wash in the cafeteria, I now think of what Ellen White says in this quote: "We are to look upon every duty, however humble, as sacred because it is a part of God's service" {Help in Daily Living, Pg. 13.} Sometimes I look at each thing I do, whether good or bad, as if it had no consequence. “It won't matter if I leave my room messy this one time. It's normally really clean, so one day of slacking won't hurt a bit,” or “I’ll just sleep this morning in until the dean wakes me up.” If I let my thoughts continue this way, my life will soon be a complete mess. It is only when I pray the words in this prayer, with a sincere heart that I can truly put things into perspective: “’Lord, help me to do my best. Teach me how to do better work. Give me energy and cheerfulness. Help me to bring into my service the loving ministry of the Savior'” (Ibid.)
"Life is chiefly made up, not of great sacrifices and wonderful achievements, but of little things." {Ibid 32.} The way you look at things will change your whole life. I’m sure you’ve heard the question “Is the cup half empty, or half full?” When I think about that question, my mind goes to Psalm 23:5 “…My cup runs over….” God has blessed me more than I can ever imagine, even though I may not often recognize it. My cup is more than half full! When you feel like God has forgotten about you, look for things to thank Him for. Just thinking about the small ways God has blessed me gives me a better perspective. “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Verse 6.)
Looking back at the ways God has lead me, and looking for meaning in everyday experiences has really helped my perspective. Instead of complaining about the piles of dishes to wash in the cafeteria, I now think of what Ellen White says in this quote: "We are to look upon every duty, however humble, as sacred because it is a part of God's service" {Help in Daily Living, Pg. 13.} Sometimes I look at each thing I do, whether good or bad, as if it had no consequence. “It won't matter if I leave my room messy this one time. It's normally really clean, so one day of slacking won't hurt a bit,” or “I’ll just sleep this morning in until the dean wakes me up.” If I let my thoughts continue this way, my life will soon be a complete mess. It is only when I pray the words in this prayer, with a sincere heart that I can truly put things into perspective: “’Lord, help me to do my best. Teach me how to do better work. Give me energy and cheerfulness. Help me to bring into my service the loving ministry of the Savior'” (Ibid.)
"Life is chiefly made up, not of great sacrifices and wonderful achievements, but of little things." {Ibid 32.} The way you look at things will change your whole life. I’m sure you’ve heard the question “Is the cup half empty, or half full?” When I think about that question, my mind goes to Psalm 23:5 “…My cup runs over….” God has blessed me more than I can ever imagine, even though I may not often recognize it. My cup is more than half full! When you feel like God has forgotten about you, look for things to thank Him for. Just thinking about the small ways God has blessed me gives me a better perspective. “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Verse 6.)
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Sabbath
These last few days have been full of excitement! First of all, Thursday we had a school wide sick day. There were over 35 people sick, out of a student body of 85! I worked clean up every night of the school week and then again on Sabbath Morning, since there were so many people sick.
And we also have Provincial Exams for the first half of this week! By the way, for those of you who are not from Canada, Provincial Exams are the tests that we have on certain subjects at the end of the class. We, grade 11, have a Social Studies provincial. And most exciting, it’s on my birthday! I get to spend three hours of my birthday sitting in the English/socials room trying to remember which Prime Minister introduced the Canadian Bill of Rights. Exhilarating, huh?
For our Math test, we did something much more exciting, and a lot less stressful! Our teacher handed us pieces of paper with problems all over them. The answers to these problems were different numbers that ended up being measurements for a recipe for cookies! That was very unique....
All of these goings on helped me to really see how much of a blessing the Sabbath is. How would I be able to survive with out it? By the time Wednesday rolls around, every one is saying “It’s almost Sabbath!” We really appreciate that God gave it to us, and I try to make the
And we also have Provincial Exams for the first half of this week! By the way, for those of you who are not from Canada, Provincial Exams are the tests that we have on certain subjects at the end of the class. We, grade 11, have a Social Studies provincial. And most exciting, it’s on my birthday! I get to spend three hours of my birthday sitting in the English/socials room trying to remember which Prime Minister introduced the Canadian Bill of Rights. Exhilarating, huh?
For our Math test, we did something much more exciting, and a lot less stressful! Our teacher handed us pieces of paper with problems all over them. The answers to these problems were different numbers that ended up being measurements for a recipe for cookies! That was very unique....
All of these goings on helped me to really see how much of a blessing the Sabbath is. How would I be able to survive with out it? By the time Wednesday rolls around, every one is saying “It’s almost Sabbath!” We really appreciate that God gave it to us, and I try to make the
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
True wisdom
I've been reading in 1st Kings about Solomon and his reign. It starts out to be a wonderful story, but it quickly turns tragic. 1 Kings 3:12 "Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee." You all know the story. Solomon also was given great wealth, and had a very successful reign. Until he let it get to his head. He began worshiping idols with his many foreign wives, and offering sacrifices to their gods. He wasn't using the wisdom we had been given him for God's purposes. Adventist Home page 64.3 says "Solomon began to lose sight of the Source of his power and glory." (AH 64.3) His whole reign, and the kingdom and rulers that came after him, all started going down hill. We need to remember to use the knowledge that God gives us, whether it is knowledge like Solomon's or just knowledge that we are taught in school for God's honor. We can't neglect our duty to learn.
"Progress in knowledge is essential; for when employed in the cause of God, knowledge is a power for good. The world needs men of thought, men of principle, men who are constantly growing in understanding and discernment." (MYP 34.1)
Jeremiah 9:23, 24 "Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise [man] glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty [man] glory in his might, let not the rich [man] glory in his riches. But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I [am] the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these [things] I delight, saith the LORD."
We should ask God to give us wisdom on how to best use our wisdom for Him.
"Progress in knowledge is essential; for when employed in the cause of God, knowledge is a power for good. The world needs men of thought, men of principle, men who are constantly growing in understanding and discernment." (MYP 34.1)
Jeremiah 9:23, 24 "Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise [man] glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty [man] glory in his might, let not the rich [man] glory in his riches. But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I [am] the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these [things] I delight, saith the LORD."
We should ask God to give us wisdom on how to best use our wisdom for Him.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Seeing Stars
It was 3:10 AM, on January 3. I had gotten little sleep, and no rest. My plane flew high above what I assume was the great Pacific Ocean. I had just spent a some bonding time with my new iPod. By this time I as bored with most of my games, an was tired if trying to keep up in typing all the words to my favorite songs. These iPod screens aren't the best for speed typing! I tried to use the wireless Internet provided on the airplane, only to discover to my consternation that it didn't really work with out paying a hefty sum.
Wishing to relieve my eyes from the stresses of staring at a computer screen, I looked out the window. There was a super bright light, that didn't seen to bee too far away. Then I discovered that that was the wing tip.
I decided to look beyond the glowing bulb and searched the sky for any familiar stars. Then I spotted the familiar "shape" of Orion, the famous hunter of the night sky. And of course that set me thinking of home, and all the times I'd seen it before. Then I thought about the time when I'll be able to see Orion up close. Very close!
Ellen White describes the coming of Christ like this. "Dark heavy clouds came up, and clashed against each other. The atmosphere parted and rolled back; then we could look up through the open space in Orion, whence came the voice of God. The holy city will come down through that open space. I saw that the powers of earth are now being shaken, and that events come in order." (CET 111.2)
After that, we will be caught up, "For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first." (1 Thessalonians 4:16) and Jesus says "...If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, [there] ye may be also." (John 14:3) I want to "be there also." Don't you?
Wishing to relieve my eyes from the stresses of staring at a computer screen, I looked out the window. There was a super bright light, that didn't seen to bee too far away. Then I discovered that that was the wing tip.
I decided to look beyond the glowing bulb and searched the sky for any familiar stars. Then I spotted the familiar "shape" of Orion, the famous hunter of the night sky. And of course that set me thinking of home, and all the times I'd seen it before. Then I thought about the time when I'll be able to see Orion up close. Very close!
Ellen White describes the coming of Christ like this. "Dark heavy clouds came up, and clashed against each other. The atmosphere parted and rolled back; then we could look up through the open space in Orion, whence came the voice of God. The holy city will come down through that open space. I saw that the powers of earth are now being shaken, and that events come in order." (CET 111.2)
After that, we will be caught up, "For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first." (1 Thessalonians 4:16) and Jesus says "...If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, [there] ye may be also." (John 14:3) I want to "be there also." Don't you?
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Salvation in the Sanctuary
They were God’s chosen people. After living as slaves in Egypt for years, they were finally on their way to freedom. On the way, God spoke to their leader, Moses, and gave them specific instructions concerning the building of a tabernacle (Ex. 25:9). This tabernacle was to be carried with them wherever they went. This word, tabernacle, is mishkan. It means dwelling place. It is often referred to as a sanctuary, or Miqdash. The definition of Sanctuary is sacred or holy place.
In the mid 1800’s, there was a huge revival in which William Miller, among others, preached Daniel 8:14; “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.” They told the world that Jesus in 1844 would cleanse the sanctuary. This they interpreted as Christ’s second coming. That was their only error. They assumed that the world was the sanctuary. It wasn’t until later that they understood what it really meant.
The earthly tabernacle had 3 main sections, the outer courtyard, the Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place. In the courtyard there were two articles, the laver and the altar of burnt offerings. This was where the sacrificial lamb was slain. In the Most Holy Place, there was the table of Shewbread, the altar of incense, and the candlestick, or menorah. Finally, there is the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant sat.
When we look at the tabernacle, we see that it is full of symbols. Most plainly, the earthly Sanctuary is a symbol of that in Heaven. Hebrews talks a lot about the Sanctuary, both the one in Heaven and the one on Earth. Hebrews 9:1 says “Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary.” That is the earthly, or worldly sanctuary. Hebrews 8:1-2 says about the heavenly sanctuary “Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” This portrays Christ as our Heavenly High Priest. The High priest on earth was the one who took the sins from the lamb to the sanctuary. He was like a mediator between God and man. That is not to say that he was in place of God, but that he was the one who went between; He took the peoples sins upon himself, and then transferred them to the sanctuary. Christ does the same thing for us. He was the sacrificial offering, the Lamb of God that Abraham talked about in Genesis 22:8. He is also the High Priest who does the work of mediation for us.
Every day, the high priest made sacrifices. The people brought to him their lambs for their sins. The lamb would be killed, and sacrificed on the altar of burnt offerings. Then the priest would take some of the blood from the animal, and sprinkle it before the veil that separated the Holy and Most Holy Places. For 364 days, the blood piled up. With well over a million people, the tabernacle got very dirty. There was great need for a deep cleaning. This was done on one day of each year. It was called the Day of Atonement. The High priest sacrificed a goat for the people, and sprinkled that blood on the mercyseat, and on the various altars. The sins of the people were confessed on a second goat, which was led far from the camp. This was when the sanctuary was cleansed.
Likewise, in the heavenly sanctuary, there are two processes. There is a daily division, and a yearly division. The Daily division consists of the following 3 basic steps: Repentance, faith, and baptism. These steps are crucial to each person’s personal walk with God, and their salvation. We have to take these steps faithfully every day. Without doing this, we will feel the weight of guilt most heavily on ourselves. Why should we keep that with us when we can give it all to the sacrificial offering, Jesus Christ?
The Yearly division has two basic steps: The investigative judgment and the blotting out of sin. The investigative judgment is “an examination of the books of record to determine who, through repentance of sin and faith in Christ, are entitled to the benefits of His atonement.”(GC 421.3) “The whole ceremony was designed to impress the Israelites with the holiness of God and His abhorrence of sin; and, further, to show them that they could not come in contact with sin without becoming polluted.”(GC 419.3) The blood of the lamb is given for the “penitent believers” who fully accept the gift that is laid before them. The blotting out of sins is in essence self explanatory. The sins of those who pass the investigative judgment will be blotted out, or completely obliterated. “But while they have a deep sense of their unworthiness, they have no concealed wrongs to reveal. Their sins have gone beforehand to judgment and have been blotted out, and they cannot bring them to remembrance.” (GC 620.1) “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you.” (Acts 3:19-20) “As the features of the countenance are reproduced with unerring accuracy on the polished plate of the artist, so the character is faithfully delineated in the books above.” (GC 487.1) These are the sins that are to be blotted out. And if the character recorded in Heaven are to be wiped out, then something needs to be done to our characters that are in our hearts.
We in ourselves are not at all worthy to be given the gift of the atonement. But then how are we to achieve eternal life? We must use the resources that God gives us. These are symbolized by the three articles in the holy place, the candles stick, the table of showbread, and the altar of incense. The candles stick is the Holy Spirit. One important thing to note about the Holy Spirit is that he is represented in all three parts of the sanctuary. In the outer court, he is symbolized by the Laver, in the holy place by the candlestick, and in the most holy place by the fiery stream (Daniel 7:9-10). The Holy Spirit is so vitally important to each part of our live- we can’t leave him out!
The Table of showbread is the word of God. “The showbread pointed to Christ, the living Bread, who is ever in the presence of God for us. He Himself said, “I am the living Bread which came down from heaven.” John 6:48-51.” (PP 354.1) Change happens by putting the word in our hearts and through the regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit. This bread is “received only through the mediation of Christ…” which is our next resource. (PP354.1)
One of the main parts of the three angel’s messages is the Mediation of Christ. Because of the work that Christ does for us, we can talk to God, and we will soon be able to live with Him forever. Christ’s work of mediation is one of the most important, and most misunderstood. “I turned to look at the company who were still bowed before the throne; they did not know that Jesus had left it. Satan appeared to be by the throne, trying to carry on the work of God. I saw them look up to the throne, and pray, “Father, give us Thy Spirit.” Satan would then breathe upon them an unholy influence; in it there was light and much power, but no sweet love, joy, and peace. Satan’s object was to keep them deceived and to draw back and deceive God’s children” (EW 66.1). It is so simple in its truth, but is often twisted by the devil. “It is thus that doubters, unbelievers, and skeptics turn the truth into a lie” {GC 539.1}. “The Father accepts the Son, and through the atoning sacrifice of His Son accepts the sinner” (3SM 194.2)
Salvation is not a one-step, easy to grasp process. It is a forever continuing development that expands character ever toward Christ’s. There are three basic stages that people find themselves in on the journey of Salvation. They are Conversion, Progressive conversion, and perfection. The first step, represented by the outer courtyard, is a realization that we are sinful and need a savior. We offer a sacrifice to take away our sins. We then receive a heart of flesh, which desires unselfishness. We want our characters to be like that of Christ.
The progressive conversion, symbolized by the Holy place is a stage of continual drawing closer to God, using the three resources that He has given us to draw closer to him. “As newborn babies, desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2).
Perfection of character is symbolized by the Most Holy Place, where we have perfect relationship with God. We are still drawing closer to him, forever. I see this like the math concept of asymptotes. They always get closer to the axis, always making the distance shorter, but it never quite touches it. We will never be God, ever, but our characters can become more and more like His when we find Salvation in the Sanctuary.
In the mid 1800’s, there was a huge revival in which William Miller, among others, preached Daniel 8:14; “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.” They told the world that Jesus in 1844 would cleanse the sanctuary. This they interpreted as Christ’s second coming. That was their only error. They assumed that the world was the sanctuary. It wasn’t until later that they understood what it really meant.
The earthly tabernacle had 3 main sections, the outer courtyard, the Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place. In the courtyard there were two articles, the laver and the altar of burnt offerings. This was where the sacrificial lamb was slain. In the Most Holy Place, there was the table of Shewbread, the altar of incense, and the candlestick, or menorah. Finally, there is the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant sat.
When we look at the tabernacle, we see that it is full of symbols. Most plainly, the earthly Sanctuary is a symbol of that in Heaven. Hebrews talks a lot about the Sanctuary, both the one in Heaven and the one on Earth. Hebrews 9:1 says “Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary.” That is the earthly, or worldly sanctuary. Hebrews 8:1-2 says about the heavenly sanctuary “Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” This portrays Christ as our Heavenly High Priest. The High priest on earth was the one who took the sins from the lamb to the sanctuary. He was like a mediator between God and man. That is not to say that he was in place of God, but that he was the one who went between; He took the peoples sins upon himself, and then transferred them to the sanctuary. Christ does the same thing for us. He was the sacrificial offering, the Lamb of God that Abraham talked about in Genesis 22:8. He is also the High Priest who does the work of mediation for us.
Every day, the high priest made sacrifices. The people brought to him their lambs for their sins. The lamb would be killed, and sacrificed on the altar of burnt offerings. Then the priest would take some of the blood from the animal, and sprinkle it before the veil that separated the Holy and Most Holy Places. For 364 days, the blood piled up. With well over a million people, the tabernacle got very dirty. There was great need for a deep cleaning. This was done on one day of each year. It was called the Day of Atonement. The High priest sacrificed a goat for the people, and sprinkled that blood on the mercyseat, and on the various altars. The sins of the people were confessed on a second goat, which was led far from the camp. This was when the sanctuary was cleansed.
Likewise, in the heavenly sanctuary, there are two processes. There is a daily division, and a yearly division. The Daily division consists of the following 3 basic steps: Repentance, faith, and baptism. These steps are crucial to each person’s personal walk with God, and their salvation. We have to take these steps faithfully every day. Without doing this, we will feel the weight of guilt most heavily on ourselves. Why should we keep that with us when we can give it all to the sacrificial offering, Jesus Christ?
The Yearly division has two basic steps: The investigative judgment and the blotting out of sin. The investigative judgment is “an examination of the books of record to determine who, through repentance of sin and faith in Christ, are entitled to the benefits of His atonement.”(GC 421.3) “The whole ceremony was designed to impress the Israelites with the holiness of God and His abhorrence of sin; and, further, to show them that they could not come in contact with sin without becoming polluted.”(GC 419.3) The blood of the lamb is given for the “penitent believers” who fully accept the gift that is laid before them. The blotting out of sins is in essence self explanatory. The sins of those who pass the investigative judgment will be blotted out, or completely obliterated. “But while they have a deep sense of their unworthiness, they have no concealed wrongs to reveal. Their sins have gone beforehand to judgment and have been blotted out, and they cannot bring them to remembrance.” (GC 620.1) “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you.” (Acts 3:19-20) “As the features of the countenance are reproduced with unerring accuracy on the polished plate of the artist, so the character is faithfully delineated in the books above.” (GC 487.1) These are the sins that are to be blotted out. And if the character recorded in Heaven are to be wiped out, then something needs to be done to our characters that are in our hearts.
We in ourselves are not at all worthy to be given the gift of the atonement. But then how are we to achieve eternal life? We must use the resources that God gives us. These are symbolized by the three articles in the holy place, the candles stick, the table of showbread, and the altar of incense. The candles stick is the Holy Spirit. One important thing to note about the Holy Spirit is that he is represented in all three parts of the sanctuary. In the outer court, he is symbolized by the Laver, in the holy place by the candlestick, and in the most holy place by the fiery stream (Daniel 7:9-10). The Holy Spirit is so vitally important to each part of our live- we can’t leave him out!
The Table of showbread is the word of God. “The showbread pointed to Christ, the living Bread, who is ever in the presence of God for us. He Himself said, “I am the living Bread which came down from heaven.” John 6:48-51.” (PP 354.1) Change happens by putting the word in our hearts and through the regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit. This bread is “received only through the mediation of Christ…” which is our next resource. (PP354.1)
One of the main parts of the three angel’s messages is the Mediation of Christ. Because of the work that Christ does for us, we can talk to God, and we will soon be able to live with Him forever. Christ’s work of mediation is one of the most important, and most misunderstood. “I turned to look at the company who were still bowed before the throne; they did not know that Jesus had left it. Satan appeared to be by the throne, trying to carry on the work of God. I saw them look up to the throne, and pray, “Father, give us Thy Spirit.” Satan would then breathe upon them an unholy influence; in it there was light and much power, but no sweet love, joy, and peace. Satan’s object was to keep them deceived and to draw back and deceive God’s children” (EW 66.1). It is so simple in its truth, but is often twisted by the devil. “It is thus that doubters, unbelievers, and skeptics turn the truth into a lie” {GC 539.1}. “The Father accepts the Son, and through the atoning sacrifice of His Son accepts the sinner” (3SM 194.2)
Salvation is not a one-step, easy to grasp process. It is a forever continuing development that expands character ever toward Christ’s. There are three basic stages that people find themselves in on the journey of Salvation. They are Conversion, Progressive conversion, and perfection. The first step, represented by the outer courtyard, is a realization that we are sinful and need a savior. We offer a sacrifice to take away our sins. We then receive a heart of flesh, which desires unselfishness. We want our characters to be like that of Christ.
The progressive conversion, symbolized by the Holy place is a stage of continual drawing closer to God, using the three resources that He has given us to draw closer to him. “As newborn babies, desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2).
Perfection of character is symbolized by the Most Holy Place, where we have perfect relationship with God. We are still drawing closer to him, forever. I see this like the math concept of asymptotes. They always get closer to the axis, always making the distance shorter, but it never quite touches it. We will never be God, ever, but our characters can become more and more like His when we find Salvation in the Sanctuary.
Christmas Time!
Hello Family and Friends,
Greetings from Canada! This year has been full of firsts for me. One of them being this letter; my first personal Christmas letter! I know it’s a little early for Christmas, but being at Fountainview has completely changed my schedule! This will also be the first time I have lived anywhere but Alaska. Thankfully, British Columbia isn't too horribly far from home! It is the first time I have been in an orchestra. Orchestra for me has been one of the hardest, but most enjoyable things about academy. Practice can be grueling, but the concerts are so rewarding! This is also the first time I've been in a real class room setting. I was happily surprised to find out that teachers are wonderful people, with wonderful dreams and most importantly, wonderful compassion and understanding.
Time is an amazing thing. The days since I have been here each seem to last a life time, but then the weeks fly by! I feel like I have always been at Fountainview, but it also feels like I just got here.
School itself has been going pretty well. There is a lot to learn! Socials class is often my favorite. Since I’m in Canada, everything is from a Canadian point of view. That always makes it interesting… Math class is one of the most, uhh, enlightening I suppose. Strange new concepts are tackled almost every day. Normally when we aren’t conquering crazy math books, we are trying to keep from busting out laughing at the wild antics of our classmates. Everything from paper wasps to water bottle throwing contests fills our math experience with excitement. Bible used to be impossible, before they switched up our classes to allow for our recording. But now it is often an enjoyable experience filled with imperative messages of God’s love for us. PE is, well, PE I guess.
We officially started our Christmas season this year with our concert in Lytton on the 12th of November. That was a wonderful experience. Before I came here, I never understood how hard Christmas music can be! It was always just more music. But now, I have to work to get it to sound anything like it’s supposed to. But, Praise the Lord, I think I finally have most of it down pretty well.
The snow is sparse here so far, but it is still starting to feel like Christmas. Christmas music is constantly running through our heads. Scarves and sweaters are becoming the clothes of choice. The mountains surrounding our school are turning white. All of this reminds me of how our Savior came down to earth, was born in a stable, and died so that I too can be whiter than snow.
Yours truly,
Heather Ueeck
Greetings from Canada! This year has been full of firsts for me. One of them being this letter; my first personal Christmas letter! I know it’s a little early for Christmas, but being at Fountainview has completely changed my schedule! This will also be the first time I have lived anywhere but Alaska. Thankfully, British Columbia isn't too horribly far from home! It is the first time I have been in an orchestra. Orchestra for me has been one of the hardest, but most enjoyable things about academy. Practice can be grueling, but the concerts are so rewarding! This is also the first time I've been in a real class room setting. I was happily surprised to find out that teachers are wonderful people, with wonderful dreams and most importantly, wonderful compassion and understanding.
Time is an amazing thing. The days since I have been here each seem to last a life time, but then the weeks fly by! I feel like I have always been at Fountainview, but it also feels like I just got here.
School itself has been going pretty well. There is a lot to learn! Socials class is often my favorite. Since I’m in Canada, everything is from a Canadian point of view. That always makes it interesting… Math class is one of the most, uhh, enlightening I suppose. Strange new concepts are tackled almost every day. Normally when we aren’t conquering crazy math books, we are trying to keep from busting out laughing at the wild antics of our classmates. Everything from paper wasps to water bottle throwing contests fills our math experience with excitement. Bible used to be impossible, before they switched up our classes to allow for our recording. But now it is often an enjoyable experience filled with imperative messages of God’s love for us. PE is, well, PE I guess.
We officially started our Christmas season this year with our concert in Lytton on the 12th of November. That was a wonderful experience. Before I came here, I never understood how hard Christmas music can be! It was always just more music. But now, I have to work to get it to sound anything like it’s supposed to. But, Praise the Lord, I think I finally have most of it down pretty well.
The snow is sparse here so far, but it is still starting to feel like Christmas. Christmas music is constantly running through our heads. Scarves and sweaters are becoming the clothes of choice. The mountains surrounding our school are turning white. All of this reminds me of how our Savior came down to earth, was born in a stable, and died so that I too can be whiter than snow.
Yours truly,
Heather Ueeck
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)