An operating system (e.g. Windows XP, Mac OS X, Linux, FreeBSD, Solaris) is the core set of programs that run a computer and upon which all other programs rely in order to operate. Software updates are important because they often include critical patches to security holes. ... In addition to security fixes, they can also improve the stability of your software, include new or enhanced features, and remove outdated features. All of these updates are aimed at making the user experience better.
Most of you who know us, know I had to cut and paste that definition from the internet. But I couldn’t find a better illustration of Gods present work in our lives. Let me explain:
The operating system provides the structure that regulates how all software is to operate. Much like our worldview which controls how we process and interpret events and information. These system updates are less frequent but put our devises temporarily out of commission.
Software updates to programs and apps are more frequent and require little or no down time. Information is added or deleted making them more user friendly. They are what we interface with (see and use) when we use our digital devise. The operating system sets the perimeters upon which these programs and apps will operate. Much like our worldview guides and controls our responses, attitudes, feelings and emotions.
Life has a way of exposing our attitudes, feelings and emotions thru our responses. Gods Word and Spirit provide those corrective updates needed. The verse that describes this process to me says “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and what is wrong in our lives (contrastive). It straightens (Corrective) us out and teaches us to do what is right (instructive).” 2 Timothy 3:16
Every once in a while something deeper needs to happen. A worldview reboot. Months and maybe even years might be leading up to this. Extended time in His Word; thought provoking conversations or books; sound teaching and events are all being used by Gods Spirit to bring this about.
We might have grown accustomed to downloading truth yet refuse the process of installing it. As I have also found in my life, man often does not reject the addition of truth to his knowledge but rather the displacement and replacement of worldview truth requires. There are truths we know (have been downloaded) that have not yet been installed (become part of our worldview). Romans 12:2 has this to say,
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect His will really is”.
A prompt window might come up on the screen. “Install now” or “Install later” . Typically, I choose to delay a systems update because: 1. The down time it will require 2. I’m unsure of the changes it will bring. 3. There will be a learning curve involved as I navigate the changes.
Looks like God clicked on the “Install now” option. Undergoing a worldview system reboot!
What we love…what we miss…
We love the ministry the Lord has given us … the people we get to meet and know … the students we invest in and those we build a friendships with … making pizza in our pizza oven … the early morning walks we take together … our morning coffee … seeing people find joy in using their gifts … earlier morning time in the Word … conversations with friends on the phone … Marco Polo with the grandkids … making lattes for folks … little projects around the yard or home … etc …
We miss YOU. We mean that! … times to reflect on the goodness of the Lord … serving you ribs with our BBQ sauce … interacting with students … doing our cultural presentation to help our students communicate with their churches the type of ministry their heading into … spending meaningful time with our support team … not being able to be there for our hurting friends … bodies that were able to burn fat and stay in shape better =).
Praying always for…
Confident expectation as He does His work in and thru our lives.
A passion for His Bride and love and pursuit for the lost.
Wisdom and clear direction in these days. What do the days ahead look like? What adjustments are we needing to make?
Good management of our health, time and finances.
Continued open doors and hearts to invest in.
Praise. People are hearing the gospel for the first time. You are part of the team that makes this happen.