My Application Essay as Art

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Seminary

This is the first time I've had what I think is BIG news that I've decided not to put on the family blog (for now). I try to keep the family blog relatively statement free. If I'm discussing theology or personal opinions it almost always goes here. My family blog is more like a newletter. This news is a mix, and until things are more finalized I've decided to keep this announcement here.

*deep breath*

I'm applying for seminary.

That's right.

Seminary.

*breath some more*

It's been on my heart for, literally, years. I think I got my law degree and said, the same day, that I'd only go back to school for a tax or a seminary degree. Well, after much prayer and consideration, Evan and I have decided this seems to be the right time to take some post-graduate seminary classes. I'm planning on enrolling in Tozer Seminary at Simpson College this Fall. After taking a few classes, we will decide if I should pursue a full degree program.

Whew! This stepping out in faith thing is scary.

Adventures in Eating

When I Say, "I am a Christian"

When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not shouting, "I've been saved!"
I'm whispering, "I get lost! That's why I chose this way.

"When I say, "I am a Christian," I don't speak with human pride
I'm confessing that I stumble-needing God to be my guide.

When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not trying to be strong
I'm professing that I'm weak and pray for strength to carry on

When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not bragging of success
I'm admitting that I've failed and cannot ever pay the debt

When I say, "I am a Christian," I don't think I know it all
I submit to my confusion asking humbly to be taught

When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are far too visible but God believes I'm worth it

When I say, "I am a Christian," I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartache which is why I seek His name

When I say, "I am a Christian," I do not wish to judge
I have no authority--I only know I'm loved

(c) 1988 Carol Wimmer

You've Been Left Behind

You've Been Left Behind is a new website that sends emails to your loved ones who are left behind after you, presumably, are whisked away in the rapture. For a subscription of $40 per year, the website purports to give you one last chance to get your unsaved loved ones save. "Imagine being in the presence of the Lord and hearing all of heaven rejoice over the salvation of your loved ones. It is our prayer that this site makes it happen."

I think this website is simply a way to make money by capitalizing on Christians' fears. It also handicaps Christians right now in their efforts to evangelize to their families, and undermines their effective sharing of the gospel.

Consider:

(1) Why spend $40, when you could just hand write the letter and leave it to be found after you are gone? The Tribulation is suppose to be a horrific periodof time, marked with catastrophic natural disasters. What makes you think the web will be working? Or the mail?
(2) Which brings me to this point: Why aren't your evangelizing to your family and friends now? If they are left behind, the most important thing you can leave them with is the knowledge of your beliefs and your discussions with them how to obtain salvation. A single, too-late letter will not have the same impact that your discussions with them today will have. You cannot guarantee that your loved ones will get that letter, but you can guarantee they hear the gospel right now.
(3) I question the intentions of the website when there is no discussion of the Gospel or how to share your faith, but they want your $40.
(4) Do you really want to be in Heaven, celebrating their salvation after the rapture? Because that implies that you have left them to experience the horrors of the Tribulation. Wouldn't you rather meet Jesus with them at your side? I find it hypocritical to talk about leaving a "left behind letter" and then rejoicing over their post-rapture salvation.

So here's my challenge:
(1) Make a list of 3 of your unsaved loved one. List their names in the comments.
(2) Prayer for their salvation. I will pray for them too.
(3) Find the opportunity to discuss the Gospel with them at least once, allowing your discussion to be led by the Spirit. Don't know where to get started? Check out Way of the Master.
(4) Write them a left behind letter in your own handwriting. Put it in a safe place, but one they can find after your gone. Consider writing it from either the point of view of the rapture or your death.

The website is right, it is you last chance. You shouldn't waste it but you shouldn't waste the opportunities you have right now!