I realize that I haven't clearly explained the reason why I am living in the North End. Obviously, God has called me to live here. However, it is not fair if I keep it so general. Also I think it would be good for me if I clearly laid it out.
I believe that prayer is a fundamental aspect of Christianity and our relationships with God. To be a Christian, and to not pray is impossible. It is an oxymoron. Some Christians are called to a greater devotion than others in prayer, specifically intercession. I believe God has called me to live the life of an intercessor. Intercession is very simply, praying to God on behalf of others. So one of the reasons God called me to Winnipeg is to be an intercessor, in Winnipeg, for Winnipeg. Whereas sometimes I may be tempted to think that is a boring calling, I am slowly becoming more and more excited about it. I get to be like Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus! (actually, all of us have this privilege if we want it). My favourite thing that has been happening since I moved here is the level of intimacy with which God is blessing me. I KNOW this is not limited to certain people but is something God desires to have with all people! Even though I believe I am called to be an intercessor, I am still an infant in this and will have my whole life to grow in this calling. It is so exciting! One of the dangers in my own flesh is a temptation to think of myself with a "holier than thou" attitude or to feel 'special'. Or even to think that I am the only one doing anything of value. God is gently teaching me to recognize the pitfalls of these lies and to be humble and contrite and to keep my eyes on him instead of those around me.
Since coming to Winnipeg God has placed a certain demographic on my heart. These are the homeless people of Winnipeg. This is a new thing for me and I am definitely taking baby steps in learning how to be amongst and interact with those who are less privileged economically. Connected with this is Isaiah 58. A passage that the LORD has magnified in my heart in recent months. I believe that I (especially in the context of intercession) must live out a lifestyle of justice and mercy. Given what Isaiah 58 teaches, I believe that justice and mercy will both be fuel for, and be fueled by, a lifestyle of prayer and fasting. I long to fully embrace such a lifestyle. (if you desire greater breakthrough in your life, grab hold of Isaiah 58 and never let go!)
And finally, I must pursue the first and greatest commandment, to Love the LORD my God with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength. I am on a life long journey of trying to get this commandment into first and greatest place in my life. God has been teaching me the joy of a focused life. The joy of less distractions, less worries, fewer passions and desires. The commitment of one thing, to know HIM, Jesus Christ, the Son of God. EVERYTHING else. Must. Fade. Away. Amen.
-Trenton.
P.S. I have given up badminton. I feel like I have since taken a huge leap forward in the Spirit, as a result. Since I can focus more on that which really matters, Jesus Christ.
Good explanation, Trenton. Sacrificing things/activities of personal value is difficult in our culture (even in Christian circles) - we don't always understand the idea that even 'good' things can keep us from what is 'great'. I believe that it is in these areas it is vital to listen to the Holy Spirit, since the Bible doesn't give a specific, detailed priority list for life.
ReplyDeleteIt is nice, though, that your job keeps you exercising - a healthy body, mind and spirit are all connected to each other (to a degree).
Have you been able to connect with the homeless? As you pray for them, what do you think their greatest needs are (beyond a relationship with Jesus, which is a given for all of us)?
Thanks Kyle, Yes I have been able to connect with some homeless people now and then. I can't speak with much authority but from my own observations, nearly every homeless person is either alcoholic or addicted to drugs and usually both. It also seems that this is the reason they are homeless. Connected with this they need hope. There is so little hope for change.
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