SUNDAY…
image courtesy of photo bucket.com
Repost… Again…
Sunday is a peculiar day of the week for me. I know the obvious reasons for its stand-alone importance relative to the other days of the week. It’s the first day of the week, it’s the Sabbath, therefore, a resting day appointed by God. (At least the modern way it is recognized.)
Sunday is more than that for me. You see, me and Sunday have had what you might call a stormy past.
When I was young it was church on Wednesday and twice on Sunday. Going to church wasn’t an option… Oh my parents said it was, but somehow when I tried to exercise my option it ended with, “GET IN THE CAR!” I thought when I was young, “Boy, just wait till I’m a grown up, I’m NEVER goin ta’ church!”
Time seemed to pass slowly, but eventually I did grow up and true to my word, I quit “Goin ta’ church.” During my dark years God’s Spirit hounded me. I hated Sundays, I was moving at light speed through the week, and could have been considered the epitome of “Burning The Candle At Both Ends.” Given the chance I’d work 15 hours a day on Sundays. Eventually, I’d find myself stopping with nowhere to run and no place to hide… Alone with the Holy Spirit torturing my soul.
During those days if I happened to hear just the right song and I was alone, the pain in my soul would manifest itself with moisture in my eyes.
I remember a specific song written by Kris Kristofferson, sung by Johnny Cash. The song is “Sunday Morning Coming Down.” That song for whatever reason stirred up the memories of my childhood and made me long to live a better life than the one I was trapped in.
These days Sunday is still peculiar for me although for different reasons. It doesn’t feel like the first day of the week to me, it feels more like the last day of the week. It is my day of reflection, it is my rest from the last week, not my rest for the next week.
I’m not running from God anymore and I have a different focus when I share the Bible story of Jonah. I don’t dwell as much on the miracle of Jonah being swallowed by a whale and sitting in the whale’s stomach for three symbolic days. I focus more on the fact that Jonah physically tried to run from God and the wisdom that he ultimately gained in the process. Proven by the fact that Jonah penned the story himself.
Running from God seems like “chasing the wind.” It is futile, but not to a lost world or a madman…
Occasionally my girls would want a day off from Church, sometimes we’d give it to them. Other times my wife and I would explain to them that it wasn’t the ritual of going to Church that honored God. It is the obedience and sacrifice of our time to show thanks and respect to God. Similar to a tithe offering, we’re going to give, not to get. In that process, we gain more than we can ever give. In a humble state of being before God is where we find Him.
God has used my foolishness to give me a bit of wisdom. I’m no Solomon, but I’m wise enough to warn the young people in my life that with free will comes choices. With choices come consequences, either positive or negative. I remind them that God is in control, He either causes or allows all things in life. I don’t want them to carry the spiritual and physical scars of an undisciplined life. It is my deepest desire to not have them wander this earth as the walking wounded.
It grieves me to think of a cold wind blowing across the faces of the tormented souls with tears in their eyes on Sundays because they hear church bells ringing in the distance.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 7:00 am
I’m a songwriter and songwriting fan, great song by Kristofferson. When I was a kid in a cult, Sunday was actually our only day of rest: no work, no meetings. As a church-goer myself, I’ve always been cautious of getting “too” involved. Christ works within us. We don’t need to force the issue by insisting we make it to church every single time church meets.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 12:12 pm
Yes Dan, my tendency is to agree with you. I’d be interested to know what “cult” you grew up in. I have a sister-in-law, also my life-long friend, who grew up in a legalistic, regimented cult…and she wants nothing to do with “organized religion”, as she calls it. She is a Christian now, just trying to find her way with God. A great part of me understands her feelings. I was a church-goer for close to 20 years, and I grew very tired of the legalistic mindset; all the rights and wrongs; the scrutiny. I haven’t been regularly to church for close to 4 years now. I’m not saying it’s right, but I’m just not ready to return yet. And Jesus is still working within me. I can even say I feel closer to Him than I have in a long time.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 2:46 pm
The cult was not well known. It was simply referred to as “the group” in Washington State. It was Bible-based, but the leader built his empire by using child labor and had innappropriate relations with young girls. Standard cult stuff. I have a book “A Train Called Forgiveness” about my childhood and journey as a young adult. It’s based off my life, but slightly fictionalized.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 6:09 pm
Guess what showed up at my doorstep today, Dan? Yup! Your book! I’m looking forward to reading it and knowing the background of your book now is going to make it that much better! Thanks for sharing!
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 5:57 pm
There is certainly fellowship here, Jillie. God is using each of us to lift up each other. Your words, heart, and honesty lead to that and I do appreciate it. There are some wonderful Bible churches out there that speak truth and don’t put themselves up on pedestals to point there noses down on others who happen to have different weaknesses than them. While you might be missing out on great things, I wonder how many others are missing out on a blessing from God through you because you’re not there? You have that gift of an encouraging heart… The thing that make up true sanctuaries of God.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 5:48 pm
I hear you, Dan. There is no honor in a life of legalism. Legalism has been used by the enemy to destroy true relationships with God and others. I couldn’t agree more. It’s a matter of the heart… Where our Savior resides… Thanks, Dan.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 7:45 am
Wow, Floyd. What an awesome post. Thank you for reposting it. Truly a wonderful testimony! And your last line brought tears to my eyes.
Just beautiful!
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 5:51 pm
Thanks, Diane. God can use all of us and all of our experiences for His perfect will. He is amazing and we are redeemed!
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 12:16 pm
Great post, Floyd! Is there anywhere a person can read your story/testimony? I’d like to know more about you.
I know what you mean when you say your Sunday is more for rest for the week you’ve just been through, rather than a rest for the week ahead. That’s what it is for me too. Have a Blessed weekend, Floyd.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 6:04 pm
Thank you so much, Jillie. I have a short blurb in my “About” section, but it’s not too detailed. While my life would definitely be defined as a Prodigal son and I’ve been supernaturally redeemed by God, I try not to dwell on myself. I know what a trap that can be. I’m like you in many ways, I love to hear the stories of others. I find all of them fascinating and I’m blown away by the fact that there are no two alike. Each person is a walking story that evolves into a book and I love to read the chapters, especially when they’ve been redeemed by our Father.
A blessed weekend to you as well, sister!
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 12:50 pm
Bummer! My Sunday is a day of work. 🙂 ‘Course if I didn’t show up those who pay me may get just a tad bit upset. I struggled for year with the legalistic “you have to be in church if you really are a christian” idea. As a pastor I would guess that is expected. But I took it too far. I was a hound, an obnoxious hound. One day I learned about grace and realized that many things I said were “have to’s” should be filed under “want to.” Changed my preaching and perspective. So glad my eyes were opened. Good (re)post today Floyd. Oh, I also commend you and your wife for giving your girls some slack from time to time.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 6:06 pm
I have to say, I so appreciate your style of teaching and sharing, Bill. God has a way of bringing us around if we’re paying attention. Thanks so much, Bill.
Saturday, January 26, 2013 @ 7:29 am
Thanks Floyd. I consider that a compliment of the highest order.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 2:48 pm
I’ve heard it say that God has his hound dogs. He’ll get you. He’ll make you miserable and tired of everything else in the world except him. But that’s his mercy and grace doing that – because he is the best to have.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 6:11 pm
Amen, Loren. I’m so glad all He did to bring me back to Him. In hindsight I see the mighty hand that was invisibly guiding my life when I was blind by my flesh. Well said, thanks, Loren.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 8:20 pm
Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Your parents knew what they were doing.
Having studied all the cults, different denominations, and world religions
I’ve learned something about legalism. The word “Sabbath” means 7th day and was given strictly to the Jews. Seven is an important number in God’s word. The tithe was also given to the Jews. It was set up by God to give an income to the priests. Otherwise how would they live? Not a word about tithing is found in the New Testament. Giving is, but not the tithe. Paul says every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly or of neccessity: for God loveth a cheeful giver.(II Cor.9:7) We tend to mix up Scriptures that were for the Jews and Scriptures that were meant for Christians. It’s good to check the context of a verse which always indicates who it’s for. We are much freer than many people think.
Saturday, January 26, 2013 @ 8:33 am
I can say that verse is accurate. Well all of them are obviously, but that one I’ve seen first hand. You know I respect your opinion and I try to make this site about inspiration, but I have to respectfully disagree that God uses the whole of scripture for two groups. If that were the case I believe each gospel and epistle would speak to that end.
Galatians 3:28-29. “28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
Another is Revelation 5:9 “9 And they sang a new song, saying:
“You are worthy to take the scroll
and to open its seals,
because you were slain,
and with your blood you purchased for God
persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.”
Here are some others
Eph 3:6
1 Pet 2:4 and 9
Gal 3:16-29
Rom 11:11-24
Rev 22:16
Rom 9:6-8
I do appreciate when you stop in! You keep it exciting! Thanks, my friend.
Friday, January 25, 2013 @ 9:10 pm
I appreciate your honesty and your Sabbath struggle, Floyd. I think, if truth be told, that all Christians (well, most 🙂 share this wrestling at various times throughout their Christian walk.. We went to church as a family when I was young and through my teens. My parents didn’t force it, per se, but I can’t imagine having stayed at home; it’s what we did. I have so many happy memories in the church. In my 20s, when I was far away from God (I know now that I wasn’t saved), I did not attend church. God saved me while I was in an interdemoninational Bible study (Bible Study Fellowship), and then I had a longing to go back to church. I thnk that Christians naturally want to fellowship with other Christians and worship God together (and, of course, without being legalistic, this is simply bibical–we are not to forsake our assembling together as a body of believers. I really believe that this is God’s command).AFter my husband and I were married, we were merging two different regilious backgrounds, and chose a different denomination altogether. We left that particular church, in the end, because the Gospel was not really being taught (it wasn’t the denomination’s fault, but rather the liberal pastors and lay people). So we found another church which we love and have attended for a number of years. I think it is key to realize that any church will contain sinners (chief of whom am I!)….so we can’t suppose we will find the perfect church. But if a church is legalistic, or does not espouse the true Gospel, but falsehood, or if there is scandal among its pastors (there could be a number of good reasons to leave a church), it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t find a good church where we feel the warm fellowship of Christ and other believers. I am so glad that you went back and that you take your family. I do know that while I left the Church in my twenties, my parents laid a solid foundation upon which I could rely. Had they not done that, who knows how long it would have taken me to return to my roots? Thank you for wonderful post!
Fondly,
Lynn
Saturday, January 26, 2013 @ 8:38 am
We are drawn together. I guess didn’t think about the heart where our Father’s spirit resides is drawn to same likeness in others. I think that’s what draws us here as well. We are designed for fellowship and when we follow the leading of His spirit it brings us peace within.
I’m like you, without those roots I have no idea where I might have ended up. And I also agree that there are no perfect people in church or on this earth, but I truly appreciate the honest leaders with humility.
Thanks, Lynn. Have I told you lately that you have a way with words? !
Saturday, January 26, 2013 @ 10:01 am
I appreciate your words here, and thank you for this very high compliment. It’s humbling, Floyd!
Lynn
Saturday, January 26, 2013 @ 11:25 am
Truly my pleasure and honor, Lynn. It’s not a coincidence that you were able to get published. It is what it is…
Saturday, January 26, 2013 @ 2:13 am
As children we attended Sunday School and church but stayed home with Dad on Sunday nights. Mother however took the bus on Sunday nights. When we reached early teen age and mother had use of the car, we would attend Sunday nights. Church was exciting and the Holy Spirit moving was awesome, so we never rebelled at church attendance. When Bob and I married, we attended every service with our children. I realize that you do the best you can with your children, and then as you say free will might take them to experiment with the world. Once our children left home they did some tasting of worldliness and although I did not like it, all we could do was pray. Keep your children in a lively church so that a good spiritual foundation is built in them, and may they never stagger off the path of righteousness. Not all christians are nice, and sometimes even me I am not so nice, but God loves me and has his ways to keep me humble. 🙂
Saturday, January 26, 2013 @ 8:42 am
I appreciate your wise advice, Hazel. You have a knack for that. I can honestly say that I too am not always the nicest guy around… God does have a way of keeping us humble… Children I think are one of them! Thanks, Hazel.
Saturday, January 26, 2013 @ 9:29 am
WOW, such a great post. I really like how you said,”It is the obedience and sacrifice of our time to show thanks and respect to God.” This is convicting for me. The past year has been a struggle to consistently attend church due to adjusting to having a baby(and while he was in the NICU for 3 months). However, my wife and I have been starting to be more consistent in attending and have really seen/felt the difference.
Saturday, January 26, 2013 @ 11:24 am
Thanks, Dan. You have a great church and I forgot to tell you that when we’re over there we really enjoy attending and worshipping there. It was a great call. Looking forward to getting back over to have that cup of joe!
Saturday, January 26, 2013 @ 11:33 am
That’s great to hear. I’m really looking forward to having coffee with you again:)
Saturday, January 26, 2013 @ 2:03 pm
Me too, Dan. Thanks.
Sunday, February 17, 2013 @ 11:35 am
WOW—I did not go to church this morning, not feeling good (maybe lazy) I have been catching up on reading your posts. Gotta tell you, I have been very fed by your posts and God has really used them this morning & thank you got taking God’s gifts and writing to help feed us on a Sunday morning. What a total blessing you are. Love You!!!
Sunday, February 17, 2013 @ 2:03 pm
I’m glad you’re reading, but don’t make it a habit on Sunday mornings!!! I was in your shoes last Sunday. I don’t think our Father minds if we recoup. Thanks for your kind words, sister. You always make me smile. I love you too!