From Me to WE

INTRODUCTION: This spoken-word poem was originally written for some of the missionary work that I am doing in Wales. I hope that this simple testimony encourages you, and inspires you to transition from a "me" focused lifestyle to the community that resides within the "WE" of Christ-centered community.   FROM ME TO WE: By Shane M. Oberlin I was born in America, in a very nowhere place. Quite often, people would look at me like I was from outer space. Their pace was not one that I would chase, emulate or embrace. I had a bad case of never fitting…
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The Stolen Years

INTRO:The Story Behind The Poem: This poem was born out of the last three years of my journey. In 2016, I  had passed the point of no return, reaching a point where my faith had stopped; completely unable to bridge the gap or find a way across the chasm of hopelessness, struggle, and frustration. Yet, in my desperation I was never alone. Not for a second. The Lord met me in the midst of the darkest chasm, and regenerated me from the inside out! I pray that these words encourage you that even in our most desperate and vulnerable moments,…
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Conflicting Kingdoms

This poem was partially inspired by one of my classes during my last semester of school. As a class, we studied the conflicting philosophies and "kingdoms" of thought that comprise a culture. These perspectives influence every aspect of our lives, even our political and religious views. The Bible clearly shows us the juxtaposition and the conflict between the kingdom of darkness and The Kingdom of God. I hope that you are encouraged today; and that this reminds you that as followers of Jesus, we are already destined for the victorious and wonderful "city of Light." Even when it looks like the dark…
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The Realization of Identity

Identity is a powerful thing. Without it, our society, and entire way of life would cease to function. Seriously, we would have a difficult time trying to do anything (especially when government bureaucracy is involved...). With the advent of the internet, one of the fastest growing businesses is the prevention of identity theft! Yet every day, there are so very many people who walk the streets without the slightest clue that they were made for something more. Something bigger. Something extraordinary. Our identities are based in two very simple-yet-complicated concepts: 1. Who does God say He is? 2. Who does…
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The Mystery of Divinity

The world was formed and fashioned by a Voice. An enigma, a contradiction; large enough to command galaxies but soft enough to speak peace into my soul. Everything that exists today was established and is held in place because of … a Voice. The Voice of Almighty God. From “Let there be light” to “It is finished” and many times since, the Voice of God has resounded through the ages and has directed and drawn His creation to Himself. From Abraham, Elijah and John the Baptist to modern-day men and women, God has stirred and spoken to the hearts of…
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The Answer

          This poem came to me over the past few weeks, because I found myself in a time when I was seriously questioning my direction. I have always felt "different" or like I was the only one who ever went through different struggles. I was desperately seeking "the answer" to these unwelcome feelings, and The Answer is what I found!           I wrote this poem because I came to the realization that our Creator God never makes a mistake, and that you and I are created with specific purposes and destinies in mind.…
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The VOICE Behind The Veil

This poem originated from my journey to Jordan this past summer. I was confronted by the stark reality of the burqa, and how completely opposite it is of everything that I stand for. God created women to be loved, cherished, honored, and respected; not objectified, abused, despised, or relegated to a position of lowly subservience. I hope that this poem brings perspective, and that you are stirred to action against this atrocity.      From within her fear stained eyes, I can hear the mournful cry; of hopes that never lived, and a dream that long since died.    …
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Cross The Line

 I originally posted this poem to my summer outreach team blog a few months ago, but I wanted to share it here for two reasons. First, I like it, I wrote it, and I wanted to encourage you with it. Secondly, I wanted to use this opportunity to invite you to sow into my life by investing financially in my team. Our financial deadlines are fast approaching, and we could use your help! If you are able to help - either through prayer, or financially - feel free to check out the above link for more info. Here's the poem :)…
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The Path of Faith:

I came across this as I was going through some old writings, and I figured that it would be a great way to start off this blog! To me, this poem speaks of the journey that we embark on when we take the plunge and make the choice to follow Jesus, and I hope that this poem is able to encourage you and remind you that the sacrifices that you have made and the ones that you eventually will make are always WORTH IT! Enjoy! THE PATH OF FAITH As I step into the great unknown, oh so very far from home.I…
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