#106: Glass House Part 2

When I wrote Glass House, I realized it was incomplete. While attempting to recognize the social constructs and moral understandings that create the Glass House for a person exploring Christianity from an LGBTQ lens, I am learning that there are no quick answers or simple solutions. The Glass House is there and it reminds the LGBTQ of the rejection they face from Christian communities. Although Christians can make a moral stand in regards to sexuality, should it be at the expense of reaching someone who is genuinely seeking God?

You see me
You want me to know
Of your Jesus
You want me to love
Like you love
But I don't

You see me
In this Glass house
You hear me
You judge me
But you can't reach me

I cry to you
But you reject me
I ask for help
But you hate me

I am a sinner
Just like you
Can I be forgiven?

I am a beautiful soul
If you look at me you’ll see it

Please shatter this reality

#105: Remember...

My wife Kelly has been at UCLA since 2005. First as a student, then as staff with InterVarsity. At the end of the fall quarter of 2017 she will be transitioning out of UCLA. This past spring, during one of her last retreats with the UCLA students I wrote Kelly a poem of reflection. The poem is written on the left side of a sheet of paper, and on the right side, Kelly will have the chance to write down names and memories of her time at UCLA. 

While visiting the retreat, I thought it would be romantic to sneak the poem in to her bag or put it somewhere where she would definitely see it the following morning. Before arriving that evening to the retreat, Kelly asked me to pick up some Tiger Balm for her. I decided to fold up the poem and hide it in the Tiger Balm box, thinking that when she opened it that night, she would see the poem. 

Sadly, as I handed her the Tiger Balm, she opened it as we were saying goodbye and proceeded to crumple up the box to throw it away. I very smoothly grabbed the box and told her to look inside. She probably thought it was jewelry or something, but no, it was a newly crumpled piece of paper. Thankfully, it wasn't completely trashed and she was able to read it later that night. 

I wanted to give Kelly the chance to reflect on her time at UCLA and on all that the Lord has done.
Ministry is so difficult, and college ministry has its own unique challenges. It's easy to get wrapped up in the day to day, but every once in awhile, it is good to look back and remember all that has been accomplished and all that the Lord will continue to do. 

Kelly Aalseth presenting a timeline of UCLA at Intervarsity

As you remember the things
the Lord has done,
The work in their hearts
that has only begun.

Remember the small moments
that make you smile,
Remember the times
you went the extra mile

Remember the tears
you shared with friends,
Remember the sin
that the Lord has cleansed.

Remember those
that helped push you along,
Remember those
that said you belong.

Remember the times
you stumbled and fell,
Remember the grace
that saves from hell.

Remember those
that taught you God's word,
Remember for whom
the Gospel was heard.

Remember the pain
and brokenness compiled,
and the way God moves
so we can be reconciled.

Remember the joy,
Remember the fun,
Remember the good times
with everyone.

Lastly remember
What God starts He finishes,
And that of the eternal
never diminishes.