Who says we are getting too old or too busy to do some of the important things in life?
Gerri and I spent time with baby Wyatt on Saturday and rolled up something like 7 or so hours credit. Neither of us have lost our touch. He was very comfortable with us and a good baby and it gave Nicole and Cecil some time to spend together. We handled the whole experience without one hitch and were able to give Wyatt back to his parents, well fed, well rested, clean, changed and quite content.
We were so successful that we took time with baby Lyla on Sunday and even took her with us for supper and a wonderful evening with the Lonards and Browns. I think we logged about 7 hours again! Lyla survived football and being two months old has some neat facial expressions and was her own little person. She has this neat way of stretching and yawning. Again the day went without a hitch and we returned her happy and content to her parents.
This weekend we are off to Edmonton for Fifth Generation pictures with Great Great Grandma Alain, Great Grandma Reindl, Grandma Gerri, Breanne, Lyla, Nicole and Wyatt. I am just the chauffeur, but it should be quite a memorable day! As well Great Grandpa Adolf is just there for the ride (like me)!
Coming soon it will be our turn to take our granddaughter Preslie out for lunch and shopping to celebrate her birthday.
Like children, grandchildren are a gift from God and we are truly blessed and want to be a good influence on the lives of all of these little people! We are about making memories that last a lifetime. Thank you God!
Until next time..
Monday, January 11, 2010
Thursday, January 7, 2010
The Me I Am Afraid God Wants
"A recent study by the Barna group found that the number one challenge to helping people grow spiritually is that most people equate spiritual maturity with trying hard to follow the rules in the Bible. No wonder that people find themselves unmotivated to pursue spiritual growth. If I think God's aim is to produce rule-followers, spiritual growth will always be an obligation rather than a desire of my heart.
"Rule-keeping does not naturally evolve into living by faith," Paul wrote, "but only perpetuates itself in more and more rule-keeping." In other words, it only results in a rule-keeping, desire-smothering, Bible-reading, emotion-controlling, self-righteous person who is not like me. In the end, I cannot follow God if I don't trust that he really has my best interests at heart.
The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. There is an enormous difference between following rules and following Jesus, because I can follow the rules without cultivating the right heart."
"Jesus did not say, "I have come that you might follow the rules." He said, "I have come that you might have life, and have it with abundance."
When we cease to understand spiritual growth as moving toward God's best version of ourselves, the question, how is your spiritual life going? frightens us. A nagging sense of guilt and a deficit of grace prompt us to say, "Not too well. Not as good as I should be doing." People often use external behaviors and devotional practices to measure their spiritual health. They measure their spiritual life by how early they are getting up to read the Bible, or how long their quiet times are, or how often they attend church services. But that is not what spiritual formation is about."
The above is taken from "the me I want to be - becoming God's best version of you" by John Ortberg
If the above resonates with you at all, it would be good to discuss why we tend to feel that way. What is it about what we have been taught or how have we come to think that? It would be interesting to me to have an idea of how many Christians feel that way. What percentage of people have concluded that the spiritual journey is about rule-keeping and have decided they didn't want that and have walked away.
Next time we will look at what spiritual formation is.
"Rule-keeping does not naturally evolve into living by faith," Paul wrote, "but only perpetuates itself in more and more rule-keeping." In other words, it only results in a rule-keeping, desire-smothering, Bible-reading, emotion-controlling, self-righteous person who is not like me. In the end, I cannot follow God if I don't trust that he really has my best interests at heart.
The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. There is an enormous difference between following rules and following Jesus, because I can follow the rules without cultivating the right heart."
"Jesus did not say, "I have come that you might follow the rules." He said, "I have come that you might have life, and have it with abundance."
When we cease to understand spiritual growth as moving toward God's best version of ourselves, the question, how is your spiritual life going? frightens us. A nagging sense of guilt and a deficit of grace prompt us to say, "Not too well. Not as good as I should be doing." People often use external behaviors and devotional practices to measure their spiritual health. They measure their spiritual life by how early they are getting up to read the Bible, or how long their quiet times are, or how often they attend church services. But that is not what spiritual formation is about."
The above is taken from "the me I want to be - becoming God's best version of you" by John Ortberg
If the above resonates with you at all, it would be good to discuss why we tend to feel that way. What is it about what we have been taught or how have we come to think that? It would be interesting to me to have an idea of how many Christians feel that way. What percentage of people have concluded that the spiritual journey is about rule-keeping and have decided they didn't want that and have walked away.
Next time we will look at what spiritual formation is.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
More on Worship
Here is some more from N.T. Wright and his book "For All God's Worth" for us to consider:
"It is right, therefore, that from time to time the church should take stock of that which is most central, most important, most vital in our common life together. Though we sing with the tongues of men and of angels, if we are not truly worshipping the living God, we are noisy gongs and clanging cymbals. Though we organize the liturgy most beautifully, if it does not enable us to worship the living God, we are mere ballet-dancers. Though we repave the floor and reface the stonework, though we balance our budgets and attract all the tourists, if we are not worshipping God, we are nothing.
Worship is humble and glad; worship forgets itself in remembering God; worship celebrates the truth as God's truth, not its own. True worship doesn't put on a show or make a fuss; true worship isn't forced, isn't half-hearted, doesn't keep looking at its watch, doesn't worry what the person in the next pew may be doing. True worship is open to God, adoring God, waiting for God, trusting God even in the dark.
Worship will never end; whether there be buildings, they will crumble; whether there be committees, they will fall asleep; whether there be budgets, they will add up to nothing. For we build for the present age; we discuss for the present age, and we pay for the present age, but when the age to come is here, the present age will be done away. For now we see the beauty of God through a glass, darkly, but then face to face; now we appreciate only part, but then we shall affirm and appreciate God, even as the living God has affirmed and appreciated us. So now our tasks are worship, mission and management, these three; but the greatest of these is worship.
And do you see why its so easy to create that pastiche of 1 Corinthians 13, substituting 'worship' for 'love'? Worship is nothing more or less than love on its knees before the beloved; mission is love on its feet to serve the beloved - and just as the Eucharist, as the climax of worship, is love embracing the beloved and so being strengthened for service."
I know how the message of this section impacts me and wonder how it impacts others. We should not lose sight of the fact that our lives need to be lived in worship and in wonder of this great God of ours but it is easy to become distracted and miss out on the wonders of the relationship God wants to have with us.
Be encouraged!
Until next time...
"It is right, therefore, that from time to time the church should take stock of that which is most central, most important, most vital in our common life together. Though we sing with the tongues of men and of angels, if we are not truly worshipping the living God, we are noisy gongs and clanging cymbals. Though we organize the liturgy most beautifully, if it does not enable us to worship the living God, we are mere ballet-dancers. Though we repave the floor and reface the stonework, though we balance our budgets and attract all the tourists, if we are not worshipping God, we are nothing.
Worship is humble and glad; worship forgets itself in remembering God; worship celebrates the truth as God's truth, not its own. True worship doesn't put on a show or make a fuss; true worship isn't forced, isn't half-hearted, doesn't keep looking at its watch, doesn't worry what the person in the next pew may be doing. True worship is open to God, adoring God, waiting for God, trusting God even in the dark.
Worship will never end; whether there be buildings, they will crumble; whether there be committees, they will fall asleep; whether there be budgets, they will add up to nothing. For we build for the present age; we discuss for the present age, and we pay for the present age, but when the age to come is here, the present age will be done away. For now we see the beauty of God through a glass, darkly, but then face to face; now we appreciate only part, but then we shall affirm and appreciate God, even as the living God has affirmed and appreciated us. So now our tasks are worship, mission and management, these three; but the greatest of these is worship.
And do you see why its so easy to create that pastiche of 1 Corinthians 13, substituting 'worship' for 'love'? Worship is nothing more or less than love on its knees before the beloved; mission is love on its feet to serve the beloved - and just as the Eucharist, as the climax of worship, is love embracing the beloved and so being strengthened for service."
I know how the message of this section impacts me and wonder how it impacts others. We should not lose sight of the fact that our lives need to be lived in worship and in wonder of this great God of ours but it is easy to become distracted and miss out on the wonders of the relationship God wants to have with us.
Be encouraged!
Until next time...
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
What is beauty?
I am starting off the year in a contemplative mood! I think its a good thing!
One of the authors I am reading is N.T. Wright and he wrote a book entitled - "For All God's Worth."
Here is an excerp:
"What is the most beautiful thing you have experienced this week?
Maybe something you heard. Maybe some beautiful music - perhaps in a church or in a cathedral.
Maybe something you saw in the world of nature: the sun breaking through the mist and making the autumn leaves luminous; the curl of a squirrel's tail as he sat nibbling a nut.
It might be something you smelt: the scent of a rose, perhaps the smell of a good meal cooking when you were hungry.
It might be something you tasted: an exquisite wine, a special cheese, that same meal well seasoned and well cooked.
Maybe something you experienced in work: things suddenly coming together, an unexpected new opportunity.
It might be something you experienced in human relationships: a quiet, gentle glance from someone you love dearly; some soft squeeze of a child's hand.
Hold the moment in your mind. And ask yourself: what does this beauty do to you?
It enriches you; yes. It warms you inside; yes. It makes you more alive; yes. It makes you stronger; yes. It makes you, perhaps a little humble; you didn't cause this beauty, you didn't make it, it just happened, and happened to you. Yes.
And what does this beauty call out from you?
Gratitude - of course; delight - yes, naturally; a sense of awe - well, perhaps; a sense of longing for something beyond, something just out of reach - quite possibly, though if your experience of beauty was the smell of a good meal I hope it didn't stay out of reach too long.
What about - worship?
Does beauty call out worship from you?"
Wright goes on to talk about beauty and worship and how they are connected to God. God is the author of beauty and God is worthy of our worship. It makes him more real and gives us the opportunity to be drawn to him as we go about our day everyday. May we all find ways of finding God in our all day every day as we start this New Year!
Until next time...
One of the authors I am reading is N.T. Wright and he wrote a book entitled - "For All God's Worth."
Here is an excerp:
"What is the most beautiful thing you have experienced this week?
Maybe something you heard. Maybe some beautiful music - perhaps in a church or in a cathedral.
Maybe something you saw in the world of nature: the sun breaking through the mist and making the autumn leaves luminous; the curl of a squirrel's tail as he sat nibbling a nut.
It might be something you smelt: the scent of a rose, perhaps the smell of a good meal cooking when you were hungry.
It might be something you tasted: an exquisite wine, a special cheese, that same meal well seasoned and well cooked.
Maybe something you experienced in work: things suddenly coming together, an unexpected new opportunity.
It might be something you experienced in human relationships: a quiet, gentle glance from someone you love dearly; some soft squeeze of a child's hand.
Hold the moment in your mind. And ask yourself: what does this beauty do to you?
It enriches you; yes. It warms you inside; yes. It makes you more alive; yes. It makes you stronger; yes. It makes you, perhaps a little humble; you didn't cause this beauty, you didn't make it, it just happened, and happened to you. Yes.
And what does this beauty call out from you?
Gratitude - of course; delight - yes, naturally; a sense of awe - well, perhaps; a sense of longing for something beyond, something just out of reach - quite possibly, though if your experience of beauty was the smell of a good meal I hope it didn't stay out of reach too long.
What about - worship?
Does beauty call out worship from you?"
Wright goes on to talk about beauty and worship and how they are connected to God. God is the author of beauty and God is worthy of our worship. It makes him more real and gives us the opportunity to be drawn to him as we go about our day everyday. May we all find ways of finding God in our all day every day as we start this New Year!
Until next time...
Friday, January 1, 2010
It's Not Only A New Year, It's a New Decade
There have been a number of times over the past several months that I seriously contemplated adding to my blog; but it just didn't happen!
Today I read Gerri's new post and thought that I couldn't let the opportunity pass to make it my goal to post some thoughts myself.
It has been an eventful year to say the least in our world (Gerri's and mine) some medical challenges, some life challenges and as the year wound down three new grandchildren have blessed our lives. One significant development was the arrival of Tylan Wil Ashby born to Todd and Michelle. After being blessed with seven granddaughters we now have a grandson and the Ashby name will carry into another generation. I know that Ty will have to find his way to fit in with all the girls who all love spending time together; but I am sure he will be welcomed by all the girls and they'll have a special place for Ty in their hearts.
I am intent on living out my personal, mission, vision, and action plan which will be a work in progress but with some resolve to attend to specific areas in my life that need attention, mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually.
Having had a few days to do some reading and reflecting on ideas that I have come across let me share some of my thoughts.
The book "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom has some definite gems to think about. The byline of the book is: "an old man, a young man, and life's greatest lessons. The author Mitch was a student of Professor Morrie Schwartz. They are re-united after being out of touch for 16 years when Morrie is diagnosed with ALS. They agree to meet every Tuesday for as long as Morrie is able.
The book shares on a number of different topics but let me share just two:
1. Morrie shares "Everybody knows they are going to die, but nobody believes it." He contends that when you "Learn how to die, you will learn how to live."
Now as sobering as that is to think about it has merit. If we knew when we were going to die, we would all live differently than when as most of us do - we pretend that we are not going to die. Why not review your priorities in light of the fact we are all going to die?
2. The other thoughts are maybe not quite as sobering but contain some things to think about when it comes to marriage.
Morrie says - "there are a few rules I know to be true about love and marriage: If you don't respect the other person, you're gonna have a lot of trouble. If you don't know how to compromise, you're gonna have a lot of trouble. If you can't talk openly about what goes on between you, you're gonna have a lot of trouble. And if you don't have a common set of values in life, you're gonna have a lot of trouble. Your values must be alike."
There are some nuggets there worth thinking about and for me its a contemplative way to start the year.
My hope is that 2010 will be a year of personal and spiritual growth for each one individually and in our family units.
Until next time...
Today I read Gerri's new post and thought that I couldn't let the opportunity pass to make it my goal to post some thoughts myself.
It has been an eventful year to say the least in our world (Gerri's and mine) some medical challenges, some life challenges and as the year wound down three new grandchildren have blessed our lives. One significant development was the arrival of Tylan Wil Ashby born to Todd and Michelle. After being blessed with seven granddaughters we now have a grandson and the Ashby name will carry into another generation. I know that Ty will have to find his way to fit in with all the girls who all love spending time together; but I am sure he will be welcomed by all the girls and they'll have a special place for Ty in their hearts.
I am intent on living out my personal, mission, vision, and action plan which will be a work in progress but with some resolve to attend to specific areas in my life that need attention, mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually.
Having had a few days to do some reading and reflecting on ideas that I have come across let me share some of my thoughts.
The book "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom has some definite gems to think about. The byline of the book is: "an old man, a young man, and life's greatest lessons. The author Mitch was a student of Professor Morrie Schwartz. They are re-united after being out of touch for 16 years when Morrie is diagnosed with ALS. They agree to meet every Tuesday for as long as Morrie is able.
The book shares on a number of different topics but let me share just two:
1. Morrie shares "Everybody knows they are going to die, but nobody believes it." He contends that when you "Learn how to die, you will learn how to live."
Now as sobering as that is to think about it has merit. If we knew when we were going to die, we would all live differently than when as most of us do - we pretend that we are not going to die. Why not review your priorities in light of the fact we are all going to die?
2. The other thoughts are maybe not quite as sobering but contain some things to think about when it comes to marriage.
Morrie says - "there are a few rules I know to be true about love and marriage: If you don't respect the other person, you're gonna have a lot of trouble. If you don't know how to compromise, you're gonna have a lot of trouble. If you can't talk openly about what goes on between you, you're gonna have a lot of trouble. And if you don't have a common set of values in life, you're gonna have a lot of trouble. Your values must be alike."
There are some nuggets there worth thinking about and for me its a contemplative way to start the year.
My hope is that 2010 will be a year of personal and spiritual growth for each one individually and in our family units.
Until next time...
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Blessed Beyond Measure
It's been a few days since the last post, so what I will do is take a look back and then take a look forward. Last Friday Gerri and I took a trip to Banff and got to stay in the Banff Springs Hotel. We stayed in the wing that was most recently renovated and had a spacious suite. We had been in the hotel years ago but this time were able to experience it first hand. While we had some difficulty finding our way around we managed to wander the halls and found some trendy shops. The lady in the gift shop was warm and friendly, very engaging and she really enjoyed her job having moved to Banff recently from the Maritimes. We had a late lunch in the lounge with a gorgeous view and enjoyed our menu choices and were most impressed by the friendly service of our lounge staff . After spending the rest of the afternoon and early evening relaxing and doing a little reading in our suite we had made a reservation in the Suishi restaurant. An intriguing meal and again great service, a dining experience that was somewhat unique. After a restful night we got up in the morning had a leisurely brunch and again couldn't help but notice the friendly service of the staff in the Grill.
The best part of our time was the fact that Gerri and I got to spend time together, relaxing, and reading, but most of all being aware of the experience we were able to enjoy, just spending time together. It is one thing that has been a staple in our relationship, we enjoy each other's company and the conversation is rich. It helps keep our relationship alive and makes me so aware of how fortunate I am to have such a loving lady by my side. We were so aware of our surroundings and have always loved the mountains.
I couldn't help but reflect on the atmosphere and the warm, friendly and engaging staff that were part of the Fairmont family. It did make me wonder about the impressions people might gather when they visit a church. Do the people seem as warm, receptive, engaging and do we show that much interest in all of our guests? Do we really like being there? Do we really understand what we have and do we want others to experience it?
Sometimes I can be too pensive!
The last few days have had a lot going on and for the highlights you can check out our Ashby Empty Nesters blog.
As I am doing the blog I still have a few things to pack and then Gerri and I are off to Radium to spend a few days at the Resort to find time to relax, read, recreate and enjoy the nuances of the valley. A few days with my best friend, partner and wife. I promised Gerri that she wouldn't have to do much cooking. And no that doesn't mean I plan to do it, we'll both be safer and happier if we eat out some. It's an opportunity to spend some quality time after all Saturday is Valentine's Day and it's an opportunity to make deposits in the Love Bank, enjoy a romantic setting and cherish some time together.
Well it's time to go! Have a great remainder of the week and weekend! Until next time!
The best part of our time was the fact that Gerri and I got to spend time together, relaxing, and reading, but most of all being aware of the experience we were able to enjoy, just spending time together. It is one thing that has been a staple in our relationship, we enjoy each other's company and the conversation is rich. It helps keep our relationship alive and makes me so aware of how fortunate I am to have such a loving lady by my side. We were so aware of our surroundings and have always loved the mountains.
I couldn't help but reflect on the atmosphere and the warm, friendly and engaging staff that were part of the Fairmont family. It did make me wonder about the impressions people might gather when they visit a church. Do the people seem as warm, receptive, engaging and do we show that much interest in all of our guests? Do we really like being there? Do we really understand what we have and do we want others to experience it?
Sometimes I can be too pensive!
The last few days have had a lot going on and for the highlights you can check out our Ashby Empty Nesters blog.
As I am doing the blog I still have a few things to pack and then Gerri and I are off to Radium to spend a few days at the Resort to find time to relax, read, recreate and enjoy the nuances of the valley. A few days with my best friend, partner and wife. I promised Gerri that she wouldn't have to do much cooking. And no that doesn't mean I plan to do it, we'll both be safer and happier if we eat out some. It's an opportunity to spend some quality time after all Saturday is Valentine's Day and it's an opportunity to make deposits in the Love Bank, enjoy a romantic setting and cherish some time together.
Well it's time to go! Have a great remainder of the week and weekend! Until next time!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Beginning A Tradition
When you are blessed with seven granddaughters and are fortunate enough to have three of the girls in Calgary it presents some wonderful options. Now that Jaelyn's girls are getting old enough we decided to begin a tradition and that we would take each of the girls out for lunch and shopping on or near their birthday.
February 1 was the beginning of the tradition as Preslie (Jaelyn's second) turns 6 on February 4. So on Sunday we decided to execute the plan, after church we took Preslie who had been looking forward to the day, was a little apprehensive about this excursion and showed some reluctance when it came time to leave, but decided she would be OK with the idea with some coaxing.
So lunch at Earl's it was. She ordered chicken fingers and fries and a glass of chocolate milk and without much hesitation managed to drain the chocolate milk. She ordered a refill and managed to finish that as well with her lunch. She had her favorite toy giraffe along and managed to engage in conversation with the server, the hostess and Gerri and I. It was a great experience to have some one on one time with her and she talked and enjoyed her lunch and did a good job on finishing the chicken. We ordered dessert - ice cream with chocolate in a cinnamon-sugar edible dish to share and she and Gerri made short work of the dish.
Then it was on to the shopping part of the expedition. We set out for Market Mall and on checking the store list found that a favorite - La Senza Girl wasn't in the mall, so had to settle for Old Navy. We made it to the children's section and Preslie spied out a nice top which was her favorite color blue. Grandpa found a nice two piece orange colored cotton hoodie and caprice outfit and because the tops were a better price if you bought two Preslie picked out another top. On the way to the check out Gerri found a coloring sheet so we picked up three, one for Preslie and one each for her sisters Madison and Lacey. Just before we went through the checkout Preslie spied out a necklace with some glass balls and a blue string which was on sale (and quite inexpensive) that she liked so we added that to the purchases and went through the checkout.
A call to Jaelyn found that she was in the mall so we arranged to hook-up to return Preslie. You know the thing Preslie treasured the most was the pretty necklace - she couldn't stop talking about it.
Well it was real important to launch a tradition, and next up will be Madison in May and Lacey in July. We will also carry out the tradition with our other granddaughters - Ireland, Peyton, in Waldheim and Lauren and Ella in Moose Jaw. We'll have to be a little more creative because the girls aren't near by , but we will find a way to spend some one on one time with each girl and celebrate.
After the shopping trip was completed and Preslie was safely returned it was on to the Superbowl game but that didn't hold a candle to the time with someone special and the beginning of a new tradition. Preslie taught us an important lesson too - sometimes its little things like necklaces that make all the difference - she is a special little girl and I am blessed to have six more dates that we have marked on the calendar and we need to start making plans! I can't wait!!
Have a great week!!
February 1 was the beginning of the tradition as Preslie (Jaelyn's second) turns 6 on February 4. So on Sunday we decided to execute the plan, after church we took Preslie who had been looking forward to the day, was a little apprehensive about this excursion and showed some reluctance when it came time to leave, but decided she would be OK with the idea with some coaxing.
So lunch at Earl's it was. She ordered chicken fingers and fries and a glass of chocolate milk and without much hesitation managed to drain the chocolate milk. She ordered a refill and managed to finish that as well with her lunch. She had her favorite toy giraffe along and managed to engage in conversation with the server, the hostess and Gerri and I. It was a great experience to have some one on one time with her and she talked and enjoyed her lunch and did a good job on finishing the chicken. We ordered dessert - ice cream with chocolate in a cinnamon-sugar edible dish to share and she and Gerri made short work of the dish.
Then it was on to the shopping part of the expedition. We set out for Market Mall and on checking the store list found that a favorite - La Senza Girl wasn't in the mall, so had to settle for Old Navy. We made it to the children's section and Preslie spied out a nice top which was her favorite color blue. Grandpa found a nice two piece orange colored cotton hoodie and caprice outfit and because the tops were a better price if you bought two Preslie picked out another top. On the way to the check out Gerri found a coloring sheet so we picked up three, one for Preslie and one each for her sisters Madison and Lacey. Just before we went through the checkout Preslie spied out a necklace with some glass balls and a blue string which was on sale (and quite inexpensive) that she liked so we added that to the purchases and went through the checkout.
A call to Jaelyn found that she was in the mall so we arranged to hook-up to return Preslie. You know the thing Preslie treasured the most was the pretty necklace - she couldn't stop talking about it.
Well it was real important to launch a tradition, and next up will be Madison in May and Lacey in July. We will also carry out the tradition with our other granddaughters - Ireland, Peyton, in Waldheim and Lauren and Ella in Moose Jaw. We'll have to be a little more creative because the girls aren't near by , but we will find a way to spend some one on one time with each girl and celebrate.
After the shopping trip was completed and Preslie was safely returned it was on to the Superbowl game but that didn't hold a candle to the time with someone special and the beginning of a new tradition. Preslie taught us an important lesson too - sometimes its little things like necklaces that make all the difference - she is a special little girl and I am blessed to have six more dates that we have marked on the calendar and we need to start making plans! I can't wait!!
Have a great week!!
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