Judges have been in the news a lot lately. Who can forget that eccentric Judge Larry that presided over the Anna Nicole Smith case several weeks ago? The current buzz is about the eight Federal Prosecutors who were fired and the subsequent hearings—it still remains to be seen whether or not Attorney General Alberto Gonzales will still have his job this time next week.
Jesus is the ultimate Judge. Although Jesus repeatedly stated that He “did not come to judge the world, but to save it,” we find this interesting conversation with a former blind man whom He had healed, who had been tried by the religious leaders and kicked out of the Temple (excommunicated):
“When Jesus heard what had happened, he found the man and said, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?" The man answered, "Who is he, sir, because I would like to." “You have seen him," Jesus said, "and he is speaking to you!" “Yes, Lord," the man said, "I believe!" And he worshiped Jesus. Then Jesus told him, "I have come to judge the world. I have come to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind." The Pharisees who were standing there heard him and asked, "Are you saying we are blind?" "If you were blind, you wouldn't be guilty," Jesus replied. "But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.” (John 9:35-41)
In what sense did Jesus come to judge the world? I believe Jesus is saying he is a decisive and deciding force. You cannot be neutral about Jesus. Receive or reject; follow him or forget him; devotion or discard—Jesus demands that you choose, He will not let you straddle the fence.
Jesus spoke to Nicodemus, a man of the Pharisees and a member of the Jewish ruling council, saying, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God." (John 3:16-21)
Did you catch that? Jesus the Judge gives the verdict: He came as the Light of the World and people react in one of two ways: they are either attracted to him or hide from him. Like someone throwing a light switch in a darkened warehouse in the middle of the night, some critters scurry for the shadows and some are drawn to the light. Once the owner of a store went to check some things in the office in the middle of the night; unbeknown to him there were already two other men on the premises. The startled custodian greeted him, dazed, but with nothing to hide; the would-be burglar slipped out the back door undetected.
What’s your reaction when The Light of God is shone on your life? In reality, we get to decide our own verdict: “Whoever believes in Jesus is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.”
~ Father, help me not to fear the light of your examination and your findings. You are not only Judge, but Doctor, seeking to examine me so you can bring about healing. Thank you for taking away my fear of your Light. Amen.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Friday, March 30, 2007
Mar. 30: Internal/Eternal Rewards
What motivates you? What fuels your “want to”? I’ve been thinking lately, as we head into this Easter season, “Why did Jesus do it—the whole passion, crucifixion, suffering, torture, humiliation, execution—what motivated that? What was His reward? What was the pay-off?
In our culture most things seems to be driven by external and temporary motivations; everything from buying a new car to school children’s academic pursuits. The local car dealer offers “irresistible” credit incentives; the parent “bribes” children into good behavior with the promise of some delicious treat; the teacher “rewards” students with candy or some prize.
I’m not totally against those things; cars need to be sold, children need to behave and students need to learn. The Good Lord knows I’ve done my share of good deeds simply because of the carrot dangling before me. Ah, there’s the rub. Extrinsic motivators—those external, temporary lures—by definition “do not belong to the thing to which they are connected.”
Intrinsic motivators, on the other hand, are internal and lasting, a part of a person’s true nature. What kind of response do you get when you remove the rewards? A church we once served had a well-attended children’s program which offered clubbers prizes for memorizing Bible verses. A worthy goal, to be sure, but it was disappointing to see a kid “cram” for the recitation, receive the prize, and 10 minutes later have no recollection of the Bible verse, let alone its meaning.
Intrinsic rewards reveal (and instill) intrinsic values—the action is performed simply because it is the right or noble thing to do; the lesson is learned because the knowledge or experience in and of itself is the prize. So it is with this Christ-following life; it is lived not in pursuit of some tangible, external, temporary trinket, but because the relationship with our Creator/Savior and the adventure of living life with Him, and for Him, is itself the prize!
Jesus advised not to be caught up in the pursuing and keeping of material things: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)
Some would say heaven is the ultimate extrinsic reward. Okay, but is that why a person comes to Christ, just to get into heaven when they die? What about this life? What if the promise of heaven weren’t part of the equation, would you still follow Jesus?
There’s a song written several decades ago which raises and answers this question:
You may ask me, “why do you serve the Lord, it is just for heaven’s gain?
Or to walk those streets of gold and to hear the angels sing?
Is it just to drink from the fountain that never shall run dry?
or to live forever, ever and ever in that sweet ol’ by and by?”
But if heaven never were promised to me,
Neither God’s promise to live eternally,
It’s been worth just having the Lord in my life;
I was living in world of darkness, but He brought me the light.
So what’s your motivation? “Have this mind in you that was in Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-- even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:5-8)
Why did He do it? He valued obedience to the Father more than His own physical comfort; He valued our freedom more than His own life. Because God loved the world so much… the relationship is the reward.
~ Father, build a genuine “want to” into my heart. Help me pursue the right things for the right reasons. Guide and guard my steps and purify my motives. Amen.
In our culture most things seems to be driven by external and temporary motivations; everything from buying a new car to school children’s academic pursuits. The local car dealer offers “irresistible” credit incentives; the parent “bribes” children into good behavior with the promise of some delicious treat; the teacher “rewards” students with candy or some prize.
I’m not totally against those things; cars need to be sold, children need to behave and students need to learn. The Good Lord knows I’ve done my share of good deeds simply because of the carrot dangling before me. Ah, there’s the rub. Extrinsic motivators—those external, temporary lures—by definition “do not belong to the thing to which they are connected.”
Intrinsic motivators, on the other hand, are internal and lasting, a part of a person’s true nature. What kind of response do you get when you remove the rewards? A church we once served had a well-attended children’s program which offered clubbers prizes for memorizing Bible verses. A worthy goal, to be sure, but it was disappointing to see a kid “cram” for the recitation, receive the prize, and 10 minutes later have no recollection of the Bible verse, let alone its meaning.
Intrinsic rewards reveal (and instill) intrinsic values—the action is performed simply because it is the right or noble thing to do; the lesson is learned because the knowledge or experience in and of itself is the prize. So it is with this Christ-following life; it is lived not in pursuit of some tangible, external, temporary trinket, but because the relationship with our Creator/Savior and the adventure of living life with Him, and for Him, is itself the prize!
Jesus advised not to be caught up in the pursuing and keeping of material things: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)
Some would say heaven is the ultimate extrinsic reward. Okay, but is that why a person comes to Christ, just to get into heaven when they die? What about this life? What if the promise of heaven weren’t part of the equation, would you still follow Jesus?
There’s a song written several decades ago which raises and answers this question:
You may ask me, “why do you serve the Lord, it is just for heaven’s gain?
Or to walk those streets of gold and to hear the angels sing?
Is it just to drink from the fountain that never shall run dry?
or to live forever, ever and ever in that sweet ol’ by and by?”
But if heaven never were promised to me,
Neither God’s promise to live eternally,
It’s been worth just having the Lord in my life;
I was living in world of darkness, but He brought me the light.
So what’s your motivation? “Have this mind in you that was in Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-- even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:5-8)
Why did He do it? He valued obedience to the Father more than His own physical comfort; He valued our freedom more than His own life. Because God loved the world so much… the relationship is the reward.
~ Father, build a genuine “want to” into my heart. Help me pursue the right things for the right reasons. Guide and guard my steps and purify my motives. Amen.
Mar. 29: The Author of Life
I just saw the movie “Stranger than Fiction”. I know, I am behind the times; it came out in theaters months ago but I’m just now catching it on DVD. Great cast: Will Ferrell stars as the main character supported by Dustin Hoffman, Emma Thompson, Queen Latifah and Maggie Gyllenhaal. It is the story of IRS agent Harold Crick who lives a precisely regimented, lonely and dull life. “Harold’s life was filled with moments both significant and mundane, but to Harold those moments remained entirely indistinguishable…”
Things get interesting when he begins hearing voices; a voice—a narration, actually—of his life.
He discovers that he is the main character of a novel and the voice is that of the author as she types the manuscript. She is narrating his life as she creates it. The plot twists when he discovers this famous and quirky author always kills off the main character is some clever way, and he must somehow find her before she writes the end of his story.
King David wrote these lyrics to his Opus #139:
For you, O God, created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
(Psalms 139:13-16)
I won’t give away the ending. In a particularly poignant scene Hoffman’s character, a literary scholar and expert of comedy and tragedy, explains literature to Harold.
“Harold, I’m sorry, but you have to die.”
“Why?”
“Because it’s her masterpiece.”
“You’re asking me to knowingly face my death?”
“Yes.”
“Can’t we just try to see if she will change it?”
“No. Harold, in the grand scheme it wouldn’t matter…no one wants to die, Harold, but unfortunately we do. Harold, listen to me, you will die, some day, some time; heart failure at the bank, choke on a mint, some long, drawn-out disease you contracted on vacation. You will die, you will absolutely die. Even if you avoid this death another will find you, and I guarantee that it won’t be as poetic or as meaningful as what she’s written. I’m sorry, Harold, but it’s the nature of all tragedies; the hero dies but the story lives on forever.”
Do you trust God, the Author of your life, to write your best story? We will all die, it is unavoidable, but will we live? Jesus offers life abundant, life to the full, and a home with Him in heaven forever. When we accept Jesus He re-writes our story!
For those seeking to write their own story the professor’s words ring with truth: “Even if you avoid this death another will find you, and I guarantee that it won’t be as poetic or as meaningful as what (God’s) written.” For those who are in Christ, who have "died to self", Jesus changes the direction of the plot line.
~ Father, thank you for my life, for the story you’ve written so far, and the re-write you began when I accepted Jesus. I trust you with the rest of the story—thanks for giving me just a peek at the ending. Amen.
Things get interesting when he begins hearing voices; a voice—a narration, actually—of his life.
He discovers that he is the main character of a novel and the voice is that of the author as she types the manuscript. She is narrating his life as she creates it. The plot twists when he discovers this famous and quirky author always kills off the main character is some clever way, and he must somehow find her before she writes the end of his story.
King David wrote these lyrics to his Opus #139:
For you, O God, created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
(Psalms 139:13-16)
I won’t give away the ending. In a particularly poignant scene Hoffman’s character, a literary scholar and expert of comedy and tragedy, explains literature to Harold.
“Harold, I’m sorry, but you have to die.”
“Why?”
“Because it’s her masterpiece.”
“You’re asking me to knowingly face my death?”
“Yes.”
“Can’t we just try to see if she will change it?”
“No. Harold, in the grand scheme it wouldn’t matter…no one wants to die, Harold, but unfortunately we do. Harold, listen to me, you will die, some day, some time; heart failure at the bank, choke on a mint, some long, drawn-out disease you contracted on vacation. You will die, you will absolutely die. Even if you avoid this death another will find you, and I guarantee that it won’t be as poetic or as meaningful as what she’s written. I’m sorry, Harold, but it’s the nature of all tragedies; the hero dies but the story lives on forever.”
Do you trust God, the Author of your life, to write your best story? We will all die, it is unavoidable, but will we live? Jesus offers life abundant, life to the full, and a home with Him in heaven forever. When we accept Jesus He re-writes our story!
For those seeking to write their own story the professor’s words ring with truth: “Even if you avoid this death another will find you, and I guarantee that it won’t be as poetic or as meaningful as what (God’s) written.” For those who are in Christ, who have "died to self", Jesus changes the direction of the plot line.
~ Father, thank you for my life, for the story you’ve written so far, and the re-write you began when I accepted Jesus. I trust you with the rest of the story—thanks for giving me just a peek at the ending. Amen.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Mar. 28: What Obstacles?
One day as he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law, who had come from every village of Galilee and from Judea and Jerusalem, were sitting there. And the power of the Lord was present for him to heal the sick. Some men came carrying a paralytic on a mat and tried to take him into the house to lay him before Jesus. When they could not find a way to do this because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus. When Jesus saw their faith, he said, "Friend, your sins are forgiven." The Pharisees and the teachers of the law began thinking to themselves, "Who is this fellow who speaks blasphemy? Who can forgive sins but God alone?" Jesus knew what they were thinking and asked, "Why are you thinking these things in your hearts? Which is easier: to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins...." He said to the paralyzed man, "I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home." Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, "We have seen remarkable things today."
(Luke 5:17-26)
Do you have friends or relatives for whom you pray to know Jesus, and with whom you share what Jesus has done for you, hoping that they will put their faith in Him and live with Him and yet they still do not believe?
The lesson from today's passage is this: Never give up! My "father in the ministry" prayed for a man every day for over ten years before the man came to experience the new life that Jesus offers.
Like the friends in the story, find creative ways to get around obstacles. The crowd. The roof. The weight. The cumbersome climb. All the obstacles could have been used as excuses to stop...but they never gave up. They knew that once their friend met Jesus His life would change dramatically for the better.
Who do you know who needs to know Jesus? Pray for them. Love them. Jesus will reveal Himself through you. Never give up on them.
~ Father, forgive me for letting the obstacles keep me from faithfully pursuing you on my friends' behalf. God, continue to work in their lives to make youselft known to them. Amen.
(Luke 5:17-26)
Do you have friends or relatives for whom you pray to know Jesus, and with whom you share what Jesus has done for you, hoping that they will put their faith in Him and live with Him and yet they still do not believe?
The lesson from today's passage is this: Never give up! My "father in the ministry" prayed for a man every day for over ten years before the man came to experience the new life that Jesus offers.
Like the friends in the story, find creative ways to get around obstacles. The crowd. The roof. The weight. The cumbersome climb. All the obstacles could have been used as excuses to stop...but they never gave up. They knew that once their friend met Jesus His life would change dramatically for the better.
Who do you know who needs to know Jesus? Pray for them. Love them. Jesus will reveal Himself through you. Never give up on them.
~ Father, forgive me for letting the obstacles keep me from faithfully pursuing you on my friends' behalf. God, continue to work in their lives to make youselft known to them. Amen.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Mar. 27: A Band of Brothers...and Sisters
Jesus not only rescues us from the penalty of our sins by what He did on Calvary’s cross, but He can save us from the power of sin in our daily lives if we’ll abide with Him, enjoying His presence and counsel. The things that have a grip on us: habits, addictions, anger, lust, financial struggles, health issues--He can free us from all these things and give us new life!
Spiritual formation can happen in many different settings--from large, corporate worship events to the silence and solitude of paddling down a river without a man-made object in site. I have found that one of the best places for this process of “ongoing salvation” to happen is in a small group of trusted friends.
I am part of a group that meets each week to read and wrestle with God’s Word together, share our struggles and needs, apply God’s truths to our lives and lovingly hold each other accountable. As we do these things God continues to mold and shape us into the image of His Son. A spiritual "Band of Brothers" and sisters, building strong and lasting relationships and continually growing to think and act like Jesus. Everyone needs what a group like this can offer.
We find this description of the first Christ-followers in the book of Acts:
"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common, being one in heart and mind. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." Acts 2:42-47 (NIV)
Christians were never intended to live and grow and relate to God in isolation, flying solo, playing the role of spiritual Lone Ranger. We were meant to pursue God in community. The greatest command is to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength", but the second command to "love our neighbor as ourselves" requires community. Someone recently reminded me, "We cannot have impact without contact".
We need to connect with God, connect with other believers, and connect to people who have yet to accept the forgiveness, freedom and life that Jesus alone offers. Do you have a "Band of Brothers" (and/or sisters) to help you become all that God dreams you to be?
~ Father, help me to realize I can never be what you want me to be without the help of others. Thank you for my group of friends that start each week sharing our needs and concerns, praying for each other and studying the Bibles together. Amen.
Spiritual formation can happen in many different settings--from large, corporate worship events to the silence and solitude of paddling down a river without a man-made object in site. I have found that one of the best places for this process of “ongoing salvation” to happen is in a small group of trusted friends.
I am part of a group that meets each week to read and wrestle with God’s Word together, share our struggles and needs, apply God’s truths to our lives and lovingly hold each other accountable. As we do these things God continues to mold and shape us into the image of His Son. A spiritual "Band of Brothers" and sisters, building strong and lasting relationships and continually growing to think and act like Jesus. Everyone needs what a group like this can offer.
We find this description of the first Christ-followers in the book of Acts:
"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common, being one in heart and mind. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." Acts 2:42-47 (NIV)
Christians were never intended to live and grow and relate to God in isolation, flying solo, playing the role of spiritual Lone Ranger. We were meant to pursue God in community. The greatest command is to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength", but the second command to "love our neighbor as ourselves" requires community. Someone recently reminded me, "We cannot have impact without contact".
We need to connect with God, connect with other believers, and connect to people who have yet to accept the forgiveness, freedom and life that Jesus alone offers. Do you have a "Band of Brothers" (and/or sisters) to help you become all that God dreams you to be?
~ Father, help me to realize I can never be what you want me to be without the help of others. Thank you for my group of friends that start each week sharing our needs and concerns, praying for each other and studying the Bibles together. Amen.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Mar 26: He is risen!
"On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb (of Jesus). They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.'" Then they remembered his words. When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened." (Luke 24:1-12)
Jesus is alive! It's not that He is alive "in spirit" because His followers keep His memory alive. He is alive! And He saves us, rescues us. He not only saves us from the penalty of our sins by what He did on Calvary’s cross, but He can save us from the power of sin in our daily lives if we’ll abide with Him, enjoying His presence and counsel. The things that have a grip on us: habits, addictions, anger, lust, financial struggles, health issues--He can free us from all these things and give us new life!
Begin today to draw close to the Living Jesus this Easter season:
Jesus is alive! It's not that He is alive "in spirit" because His followers keep His memory alive. He is alive! And He saves us, rescues us. He not only saves us from the penalty of our sins by what He did on Calvary’s cross, but He can save us from the power of sin in our daily lives if we’ll abide with Him, enjoying His presence and counsel. The things that have a grip on us: habits, addictions, anger, lust, financial struggles, health issues--He can free us from all these things and give us new life!
Begin today to draw close to the Living Jesus this Easter season:
- read in the Bible, in the New Testament, the gospel accounts of the cricifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
- Go to a church to see a dramatic production or musical depicting the the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.
- Plan on attending an Easter Sunrise worship service in your community.
~ Father, help me as I approach this Easter season to see Jesus with new eyes. Help me to know the Living Jesus and enjoy the freedom and life that only He can offer. Amen.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Mar. 25: Extravagant Love
"Now the Passover was only a few days away… while Jesus was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar, a pint of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head, and weeping on Jesus' feet, she wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.
Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, "Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year's wages and the money given to the poor." And they rebuked her harshly. "Leave her alone," said Jesus. "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her." (Mark 14, John 12)
What would inspire someone to make such a grand gesture? Jesus had no doubt made a huge difference in her life at some point. A pint—16 ounces—poured over his head and shoulders, down his back, legs and feet. And she wept, partly at his impending death and partly out of gratitude and worship, and wiped his feet with her hair. What would inspire a woman to love a man like that?
Forgiveness; Acceptance; Freedom. Jesus had offered her all of these and more. I want to worship Jesus like that—maybe not the perfume and kissing of feet—but with a sense of abandonment, not holding anything back. Not from a sense of obligation or indebtedness, but an act of appreciation and total allegiance.
Why do we wait until people die before we send flowers or cards? Why not give the flowers beforehand so the person can enjoy them? Why not give the cards in advance, telling the person how much they are loved and appreciated, and the difference they’ve made in one’s life? That’s what this woman did; she gave her best, her all, so that Jesus would know of her devotion and gratitude.
~ Father, help me to worship you without restraint, regardless of cost, not because someone said I should (obligation) or could (permission), but simply from a heart of gratitude. Amen.
Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, "Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year's wages and the money given to the poor." And they rebuked her harshly. "Leave her alone," said Jesus. "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her." (Mark 14, John 12)
What would inspire someone to make such a grand gesture? Jesus had no doubt made a huge difference in her life at some point. A pint—16 ounces—poured over his head and shoulders, down his back, legs and feet. And she wept, partly at his impending death and partly out of gratitude and worship, and wiped his feet with her hair. What would inspire a woman to love a man like that?
Forgiveness; Acceptance; Freedom. Jesus had offered her all of these and more. I want to worship Jesus like that—maybe not the perfume and kissing of feet—but with a sense of abandonment, not holding anything back. Not from a sense of obligation or indebtedness, but an act of appreciation and total allegiance.
Why do we wait until people die before we send flowers or cards? Why not give the flowers beforehand so the person can enjoy them? Why not give the cards in advance, telling the person how much they are loved and appreciated, and the difference they’ve made in one’s life? That’s what this woman did; she gave her best, her all, so that Jesus would know of her devotion and gratitude.
~ Father, help me to worship you without restraint, regardless of cost, not because someone said I should (obligation) or could (permission), but simply from a heart of gratitude. Amen.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Mar. 24: Money Boycott
America has a new coin. The Presidential $1 Coins have caused a stir among some of our nation’s citizens. In fact, there are those who are calling for a boycott of the coin because it has the mottos “In God We Trust” and “E Pluribus Unum” etched on the edge of the coin rather than displayed in raised lettering on the face of the money-piece.
Some have accused Congress of erasing all references to God from our money and becoming a secular society where all religious symbols are removed from public view. Jesus had a lot to say about money—in fact He taught more about that than He did the subjects of heaven and hell combined.
On one occasion we find that “the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap Jesus in his words. They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. ‘Teacher,’ they said, ‘we know you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren't swayed by men, because you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?" But Jesus (knowing their evil intent) said, "You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for paying the tax." They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, "Whose portrait is this, and whose inscription?" "Caesar's," they replied. Then he said to them, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left him and went away. (Matthew 22:15-22)
Give to the government what belongs to the government and give to God what belongs to God. Some would argue that the new coins are belong to the government and they would be right. The government minted and issued them into circulation. Others will argue that the coins belong to God, in fact “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.” (Psalm 24:1) They are right, too. But maybe God is not so much concerned with what’s inscribed on our coins as He is with what we do with them. Do we spend money selfishly? Do we give generously to those in need? Do we rob God?
God raised the question through the prophet Malachi: "Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, 'How do we rob you?' "In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse--the whole nation of you--because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe (the first tenth, or 10%) into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it. (Malachi 3:6-11)
I think this is another case of Christians missing the point. God is not so much concerned with what the secular government prints on its money as He is how His children manage the possessions He provides and entrusts to us. The average American spends something like 2% of their income on charitable causes. Maybe it’s time to get priorities straight and address our own materialism and greed rather than focusing on what the government prints on the coins it issues. We cannot direct the God-entrusted resources to meet the appropriate need if we are using them to indulge our own selfish desires.
~ Father, help me to realize that it’s not “my money”, but Yours. Help me to put Your teachings into practice about how to manage the resources You’ve entrusted to me. Help me to have an open heart and open hand when I encounter people in need of both physical and spiritual resources. Amen.
Some have accused Congress of erasing all references to God from our money and becoming a secular society where all religious symbols are removed from public view. Jesus had a lot to say about money—in fact He taught more about that than He did the subjects of heaven and hell combined.
On one occasion we find that “the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap Jesus in his words. They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. ‘Teacher,’ they said, ‘we know you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren't swayed by men, because you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?" But Jesus (knowing their evil intent) said, "You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for paying the tax." They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, "Whose portrait is this, and whose inscription?" "Caesar's," they replied. Then he said to them, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left him and went away. (Matthew 22:15-22)
Give to the government what belongs to the government and give to God what belongs to God. Some would argue that the new coins are belong to the government and they would be right. The government minted and issued them into circulation. Others will argue that the coins belong to God, in fact “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.” (Psalm 24:1) They are right, too. But maybe God is not so much concerned with what’s inscribed on our coins as He is with what we do with them. Do we spend money selfishly? Do we give generously to those in need? Do we rob God?
God raised the question through the prophet Malachi: "Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, 'How do we rob you?' "In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse--the whole nation of you--because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe (the first tenth, or 10%) into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it. (Malachi 3:6-11)
I think this is another case of Christians missing the point. God is not so much concerned with what the secular government prints on its money as He is how His children manage the possessions He provides and entrusts to us. The average American spends something like 2% of their income on charitable causes. Maybe it’s time to get priorities straight and address our own materialism and greed rather than focusing on what the government prints on the coins it issues. We cannot direct the God-entrusted resources to meet the appropriate need if we are using them to indulge our own selfish desires.
~ Father, help me to realize that it’s not “my money”, but Yours. Help me to put Your teachings into practice about how to manage the resources You’ve entrusted to me. Help me to have an open heart and open hand when I encounter people in need of both physical and spiritual resources. Amen.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Mar. 23: Christian “Hazing”
Officials at Savannah State University in Georgia allegedly “crossed the line” by revoking official recognition of a campus ministry, Commissioned II Love, on charges of ”harassment” and “hazing”. Last April the ministry’s members were told the group was suspended from campus and denied access to university benefits and facilities. In September a sanction was applied which included the group’s formal expulsion from campus.
On the one hand the institution is a public entity supported in part by government funding and must be sensitive to issues regarding the “separation of church and state.” On the other hand students don’t abandon their First Amendment rights to free speech and their “free exercise” of religion when they matriculate. One of the attorneys said, “The University is essentially saying that Christian groups are okay unless they actually practice Christianity.”
What’s all the fuss about, anyway? For one, some complained that the group had engaged in “harassment” because its member shared their faith with other students. Now I’ve been on the receiving end of some Christians’ evangelism methods, so they may have a point there, but we must be careful of labeling passionate and vocal discourse “harassment” or most courtrooms, classrooms, TV talk shows, legislative bodies, and coffee clutches will soon be shut down for participants’ “harassing” each other.
The other incident, labeled “hazing”, involved the group’s leader washing the feet of their new members (like Jesus did with His disciples) during a worship service. The University is reported to have taken the position that foot washing “is an activity which endangers or is likely to endanger the physical health of a student, regardless of the student’s willingness to participate in such activity.”
You’ve got to be kidding me—letting someone soak their bare feet in a pan of water and then having someone wipe those feet with a cloth is physical endangerment? Who knew? I’m not sure what that says about football or Greco-Roman wrestling. Nurses beware; soon hospitals will be sued for “hazing” their patients when they give them a sponge bath! I wonder what the school officials would think of Christian groups who practice baptism by immersing new believers under water.
Now I’m certain I’ve only heard one side of the story, and even this side has probably been “spun”. I personally have not talked to school officials or members of the campus group in question, but foot-washing being dangerous is just hard to imagine.
It’s sad that some folks seem to be intent on silencing any expression of Christian belief and practice. It’s also sad that some Christians feel that can’t say or do anything without government permission. Jesus said there would be days like this. He also said, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:11-12)
~ Father, help me to follow Your Son Jesus’ example and advice to be “gentle as a dove and wise as a serpent” and to follow Him no matter what the cost. Amen.
On the one hand the institution is a public entity supported in part by government funding and must be sensitive to issues regarding the “separation of church and state.” On the other hand students don’t abandon their First Amendment rights to free speech and their “free exercise” of religion when they matriculate. One of the attorneys said, “The University is essentially saying that Christian groups are okay unless they actually practice Christianity.”
What’s all the fuss about, anyway? For one, some complained that the group had engaged in “harassment” because its member shared their faith with other students. Now I’ve been on the receiving end of some Christians’ evangelism methods, so they may have a point there, but we must be careful of labeling passionate and vocal discourse “harassment” or most courtrooms, classrooms, TV talk shows, legislative bodies, and coffee clutches will soon be shut down for participants’ “harassing” each other.
The other incident, labeled “hazing”, involved the group’s leader washing the feet of their new members (like Jesus did with His disciples) during a worship service. The University is reported to have taken the position that foot washing “is an activity which endangers or is likely to endanger the physical health of a student, regardless of the student’s willingness to participate in such activity.”
You’ve got to be kidding me—letting someone soak their bare feet in a pan of water and then having someone wipe those feet with a cloth is physical endangerment? Who knew? I’m not sure what that says about football or Greco-Roman wrestling. Nurses beware; soon hospitals will be sued for “hazing” their patients when they give them a sponge bath! I wonder what the school officials would think of Christian groups who practice baptism by immersing new believers under water.
Now I’m certain I’ve only heard one side of the story, and even this side has probably been “spun”. I personally have not talked to school officials or members of the campus group in question, but foot-washing being dangerous is just hard to imagine.
It’s sad that some folks seem to be intent on silencing any expression of Christian belief and practice. It’s also sad that some Christians feel that can’t say or do anything without government permission. Jesus said there would be days like this. He also said, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:11-12)
~ Father, help me to follow Your Son Jesus’ example and advice to be “gentle as a dove and wise as a serpent” and to follow Him no matter what the cost. Amen.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Mar. 22: Meeting the (Glocal) Neighbors
In the metropolitan area in which I live there reside people for all over the planet. Within a 40-mile-radiuus of my home there are people who were born in 71 countries other than the good ol’ U. S. of A. The world is at our doorstep. The songwriter had it right many years ago; “It’s a small world after all.”
Someone coined the phrase “glocal” to describe our global community that lives locally. We were recently challenged to begin playing a game of sorts: for the next thirty days we are going to try to meet as many people from different countries as we can. In my postal zip code alone there are people from 18 different countries of origin.
The goal is to meet our glocal neighbors—get out of comfort zone, start some conversations and make some new friends. The labels “legal” and “illegal” are of no relevance as we play this game—we’re not checking for green cards. As Christ-followers we want to follow Jesus’ teaching to love our neighbor as ourselves. How can I love my neighbor if I don’t know my neighbor?
So far I’ve met new friends from the Philippine Islands, South Africa, China, Dominican Republic, Germany, Great Britain and Mexico; a small world, indeed. And I’ve found that we have much in common—we want the best for our children and often worry about their well-being, we are concerned with our health and struggle with finances. We don’t always see eye-to-eye with our spouses.
The question that really gets some good conversations started is, “What do you do to keep yourself fresh spiritually?” I’ve gotten all kinds of answers and been able to share about my belief in, and relationship with, the living Jesus.
The resurrected Jesus told those first Christ-followers, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:8 (NIV) How do we respond when people from ‘the ends of the earth’ move into our neighborhood? I am excited about finding them, getting to know them and telling them about the difference Jesus makes in my life.
~ Father, let my fascination and faith override my timidity and indifference as I seek to share your love with my glocal neighbors. Amen.
Someone coined the phrase “glocal” to describe our global community that lives locally. We were recently challenged to begin playing a game of sorts: for the next thirty days we are going to try to meet as many people from different countries as we can. In my postal zip code alone there are people from 18 different countries of origin.
The goal is to meet our glocal neighbors—get out of comfort zone, start some conversations and make some new friends. The labels “legal” and “illegal” are of no relevance as we play this game—we’re not checking for green cards. As Christ-followers we want to follow Jesus’ teaching to love our neighbor as ourselves. How can I love my neighbor if I don’t know my neighbor?
So far I’ve met new friends from the Philippine Islands, South Africa, China, Dominican Republic, Germany, Great Britain and Mexico; a small world, indeed. And I’ve found that we have much in common—we want the best for our children and often worry about their well-being, we are concerned with our health and struggle with finances. We don’t always see eye-to-eye with our spouses.
The question that really gets some good conversations started is, “What do you do to keep yourself fresh spiritually?” I’ve gotten all kinds of answers and been able to share about my belief in, and relationship with, the living Jesus.
The resurrected Jesus told those first Christ-followers, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:8 (NIV) How do we respond when people from ‘the ends of the earth’ move into our neighborhood? I am excited about finding them, getting to know them and telling them about the difference Jesus makes in my life.
~ Father, let my fascination and faith override my timidity and indifference as I seek to share your love with my glocal neighbors. Amen.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Mar. 21: The Best News of the Day!
The 12-year-old Boy Scout, missing for 4 days in the hills of North Carolina, was found Tuesday! Michael Auberry had gone missing Saturday and search and rescue crews spent four days and three nights looking intently for the missing young man. The ranger spokeswoman was elated as she announced, “this is the best news of the day!” after Michael was found just before 11:00 yesterday morning.
The details surrounding his ordeal will be recounted in the coming days—how he got separated from his troop, how he endured the 30-40 degree nights without shelter, what he was thinking, etc., but for now only one thing matters. The boy has been found!
There are those who are ‘lost’ in a spiritual sense; misplaced, not where they are supposed to be. God grieves over His children who are far from home. Jesus revealed God’s heart in 3 parables recorded in Luke’s gospel, chapter 15. Jesus was being criticized by the religious leaders of the day because He was attracting (and enjoying the company of) the wrong kind of people.
“God”, Jesus said, “is like the shepherd who has 100 sheep. When one goes missing he leaves the ninety-nine in the open country and goes after the lost sheep until he finds it. When he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home, calls his friends and neighbors and throws a party.”
“God”, Jesus said, “is like the woman who has ten silver coins and loses one. She turns her house upside down, diligently searching until she finds it, then she calls all her friends and neighbors and throws a party.”
“God is like the father of an ungrateful son who demands the inheritance while his dad is still living. The young man blows the fortune on selfish indulgences and wild parties. But when he winds up broke, homeless and on skid row he comes to his senses and goes back home hoping to be the family servant. When the father saw his son from a distance he ran to the boy and received him with wide-open arms and a kiss… and threw a huge party. That’s what God is like! He celebrates when spiritually lost people are found and come home.
The urgency of the search and size of the celebration indicates the value of the object that has been lost; whether it be a sheep, a coin or a wayward boy. “I tell you the truth” says Jesus, “that’s the same way it is in heaven when one of God’s misplaced children changes his thinking and comes home. That calls for a bigger party than ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.”
The fact that we have a heavenly Father who loves us, searches for us, and celebrates over our recovery, who rescues us, makes us whole and sets us free from the things that enslave us--that is the best news of a lifetime.
~ Father, thank you for searching for me when I was lost and not where I needed to be with you. Help me now to join Your search and rescue operation to find Your other missing children and bring them home. Amen.
The details surrounding his ordeal will be recounted in the coming days—how he got separated from his troop, how he endured the 30-40 degree nights without shelter, what he was thinking, etc., but for now only one thing matters. The boy has been found!
There are those who are ‘lost’ in a spiritual sense; misplaced, not where they are supposed to be. God grieves over His children who are far from home. Jesus revealed God’s heart in 3 parables recorded in Luke’s gospel, chapter 15. Jesus was being criticized by the religious leaders of the day because He was attracting (and enjoying the company of) the wrong kind of people.
“God”, Jesus said, “is like the shepherd who has 100 sheep. When one goes missing he leaves the ninety-nine in the open country and goes after the lost sheep until he finds it. When he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home, calls his friends and neighbors and throws a party.”
“God”, Jesus said, “is like the woman who has ten silver coins and loses one. She turns her house upside down, diligently searching until she finds it, then she calls all her friends and neighbors and throws a party.”
“God is like the father of an ungrateful son who demands the inheritance while his dad is still living. The young man blows the fortune on selfish indulgences and wild parties. But when he winds up broke, homeless and on skid row he comes to his senses and goes back home hoping to be the family servant. When the father saw his son from a distance he ran to the boy and received him with wide-open arms and a kiss… and threw a huge party. That’s what God is like! He celebrates when spiritually lost people are found and come home.
The urgency of the search and size of the celebration indicates the value of the object that has been lost; whether it be a sheep, a coin or a wayward boy. “I tell you the truth” says Jesus, “that’s the same way it is in heaven when one of God’s misplaced children changes his thinking and comes home. That calls for a bigger party than ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.”
The fact that we have a heavenly Father who loves us, searches for us, and celebrates over our recovery, who rescues us, makes us whole and sets us free from the things that enslave us--that is the best news of a lifetime.
~ Father, thank you for searching for me when I was lost and not where I needed to be with you. Help me now to join Your search and rescue operation to find Your other missing children and bring them home. Amen.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Mar. 20: The Solitary Place
What do you do to keep yourself fresh spiritually? In our fast-paced culture it is easy to get addicted to the tempo of chaos. At times we are like the man in the circus, seeing how many plates can be spun at once, and the more he has in motion the faster they have to spin. But no one can keep up the pace indefinitely. The faster the pace of life the emptier our souls become.
We need to take a page from Jesus’ playbook. He knew that to be effective and accomplish His God-given purpose He had to have times of spiritual refreshing. “Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, Jesus went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.” (Mark 1:35)
Jesus knew the value of solitude and silence. Prayer was his lifeline—like the umbilical chord for the fetus in utero, or the oxygen hose for the astronaut doing a space walk. Prayer is our spiritual lifeline, keeping us connected to God, continually abiding in His presence and having access to the resources He provides.
Jesus used this metaphor: "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He lifts up every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful… Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing… If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” (John 15:1-8)
How does a person find spiritual refreshing? Follow Jesus’ example of solitude, silence and prayer. God advises us to "be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalms 46:10)
I’m not sure who came up with this, but is a spiritually healthy pattern to follow:
Divert Daily: get alone and get quiet, be still before the Lord, intentionally slow the pace and seek to connect with your Creator.
Withdraw Weekly: Take some time each week to get away from the daily routine. A change of scenery and a change of pace are needed. Draw aside and seek the Lord.
Abandon Annually: Plan a vacation, but don’t fill the time with activity pursued at break-neck speed. Take a strategic retreat from the daily grind and feed your soul.
“You will seek Me and find Me. When you search for Me with all your heart I will be found by you,” says the LORD. (Jeremiah 29:13-14)
~ Father, although you’re always with me sometimes it’s difficult to ‘hear’ you in the crowd. Help me to make time alone with You a priority so I can better know Your heart and will. Amen.
We need to take a page from Jesus’ playbook. He knew that to be effective and accomplish His God-given purpose He had to have times of spiritual refreshing. “Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, Jesus went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.” (Mark 1:35)
Jesus knew the value of solitude and silence. Prayer was his lifeline—like the umbilical chord for the fetus in utero, or the oxygen hose for the astronaut doing a space walk. Prayer is our spiritual lifeline, keeping us connected to God, continually abiding in His presence and having access to the resources He provides.
Jesus used this metaphor: "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He lifts up every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful… Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing… If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” (John 15:1-8)
How does a person find spiritual refreshing? Follow Jesus’ example of solitude, silence and prayer. God advises us to "be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalms 46:10)
I’m not sure who came up with this, but is a spiritually healthy pattern to follow:
Divert Daily: get alone and get quiet, be still before the Lord, intentionally slow the pace and seek to connect with your Creator.
Withdraw Weekly: Take some time each week to get away from the daily routine. A change of scenery and a change of pace are needed. Draw aside and seek the Lord.
Abandon Annually: Plan a vacation, but don’t fill the time with activity pursued at break-neck speed. Take a strategic retreat from the daily grind and feed your soul.
“You will seek Me and find Me. When you search for Me with all your heart I will be found by you,” says the LORD. (Jeremiah 29:13-14)
~ Father, although you’re always with me sometimes it’s difficult to ‘hear’ you in the crowd. Help me to make time alone with You a priority so I can better know Your heart and will. Amen.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Mar. 19: Unplugged
No blogging today. Trying to avoid what Rick Warren calls the “Polaroid Syndrome” of being overexposed and under-developed. Rest. Peace.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Mar. 18: Concert of Prayer
I went to a concert last night unlike any I'd been to before. I'm used to concerts with pounding music, where you can feel the beat of the drum in your chest, replacing your own heart's rhythm. I'm accustomed to concerts with pyrotechnics, laser light shows, large screens projecting larger-than-life images of the singers and musicians.
I've also been to concerts where the instruments are not electric, coat and tie are the required attire, and one uses only the best of their manners and etiquette. I have enjoyed evenings with the finest of classically trained musicians interpreting the compositions of Mozart, Beethoven and Tchaikovsky.
Last night was different. Last night was a Concert of Prayer. Instead of listening to musicians perform, the people who were gathered produced the sounds intended for God, our Audience of One.
We believe God hears:
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14)
So our prayer was that of the ancients:
"Hear the supplication of your servant and of your people...hear from heaven, your dwelling place, and when you hear, forgive.
When your people have been defeated by an enemy because they have sinned against you, and when they turn back to you and confess your name, praying and making supplication to you... then hear from heaven and forgive the sin of your people...
When the heavens are shut up and there is no rain because your people have sinned against you, and when they pray and confess your name and turn from their sin... then hear from heaven and forgive the sin of your servants, your people.
When disaster or disease may come, and when a prayer or plea is made by any of your people... then hear from heaven, your dwelling place.
When we sin against you--for there is no one who does not sin--and you become angry with them and give us over to the enemy... if we have a change of heart...and repent and plead with you... and say, 'We have sinned, we have done wrong, we have acted wickedly'; and if we turn back to you with all their heart and soul... and pray to you, then from heaven, your dwelling place, hear our prayer and their plea, and uphold our, and forgive your people, who have sinned against you; forgive all the offenses we have committed against you.
(1 Kings 8:30-51)
We believe God inhabits our praise and answers our prayers, and that the prayers of people who love Him is "Music to His ears".
~ Father, tune my heart to sing Your praise, and to make prayer a conversational life-line that never gets disconnected. Amen.
I've also been to concerts where the instruments are not electric, coat and tie are the required attire, and one uses only the best of their manners and etiquette. I have enjoyed evenings with the finest of classically trained musicians interpreting the compositions of Mozart, Beethoven and Tchaikovsky.
Last night was different. Last night was a Concert of Prayer. Instead of listening to musicians perform, the people who were gathered produced the sounds intended for God, our Audience of One.
We believe God hears:
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14)
So our prayer was that of the ancients:
"Hear the supplication of your servant and of your people...hear from heaven, your dwelling place, and when you hear, forgive.
When your people have been defeated by an enemy because they have sinned against you, and when they turn back to you and confess your name, praying and making supplication to you... then hear from heaven and forgive the sin of your people...
When the heavens are shut up and there is no rain because your people have sinned against you, and when they pray and confess your name and turn from their sin... then hear from heaven and forgive the sin of your servants, your people.
When disaster or disease may come, and when a prayer or plea is made by any of your people... then hear from heaven, your dwelling place.
When we sin against you--for there is no one who does not sin--and you become angry with them and give us over to the enemy... if we have a change of heart...and repent and plead with you... and say, 'We have sinned, we have done wrong, we have acted wickedly'; and if we turn back to you with all their heart and soul... and pray to you, then from heaven, your dwelling place, hear our prayer and their plea, and uphold our, and forgive your people, who have sinned against you; forgive all the offenses we have committed against you.
(1 Kings 8:30-51)
We believe God inhabits our praise and answers our prayers, and that the prayers of people who love Him is "Music to His ears".
~ Father, tune my heart to sing Your praise, and to make prayer a conversational life-line that never gets disconnected. Amen.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Mar. 17: Rebel Pride
You'll see the message often where I live, usually stuck to the bumper of a pick-up truck: "Rebel Pride". Usually adorned in some fashion with the colors and pattern of the confederate flag. I am a son of the South. I understand being proud of being southern. My wife's high school mascot was the Rebels, and they'd fire off the cannon everytime the football team scored a touchdown; then a guy dressed as a confederate soldier on horseback would take off, galloping around the track.
I saw the bumper sticker yesterday, but this time it struck a different cord. How often am I rebellious? And how often do I take pride in that? As a Christ-follower, pride and rebellion are two things I am constantly trying to to outgrow.
The Wisdom of scripture has much to say in warning us against a prideful and a rebellious spirit:
I think the difference is that some rebels stir things up just to have a good time and enjoy others' pain. Jesus was focused on setting people free, and those into controlling people had their whole political-religious system disrupted because of Him. Jesus was a stepping stone to some, a stumbling block to others.
As you come to Jesus, the living Stone--rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him--you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house... For in Scripture it says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame." Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, "The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone, and, "A stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall." They stumble because they disobey the message... (1 Peter 2:4-8)
Jesus is unavoidable--He either beomes a stepping stone to real relationship with God, or a stumbling block to those who don't believe He is who and what He claimed to be.
~ Father, help me not to stumble over Jesus' claims, but to embrace the Truth and step closer to You. I choose to walk in obedience to Your Word, and not in rebellion against it. Amen.
I saw the bumper sticker yesterday, but this time it struck a different cord. How often am I rebellious? And how often do I take pride in that? As a Christ-follower, pride and rebellion are two things I am constantly trying to to outgrow.
The Wisdom of scripture has much to say in warning us against a prideful and a rebellious spirit:
- When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. (Proverbs 11:2)
- Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. (Proverbs 13:10)
- A man's pride brings him low, but a man of humble spirit gains honor. (Proverbs 29:23)
- Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. (Proverbs 16:18)
- For rebellion is like the sin of divination or witchcraft, and stubbornness like the evil of idolatry.
(1 Samuel 15:23)
I think the difference is that some rebels stir things up just to have a good time and enjoy others' pain. Jesus was focused on setting people free, and those into controlling people had their whole political-religious system disrupted because of Him. Jesus was a stepping stone to some, a stumbling block to others.
As you come to Jesus, the living Stone--rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him--you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house... For in Scripture it says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame." Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, "The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone, and, "A stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall." They stumble because they disobey the message... (1 Peter 2:4-8)
Jesus is unavoidable--He either beomes a stepping stone to real relationship with God, or a stumbling block to those who don't believe He is who and what He claimed to be.
~ Father, help me not to stumble over Jesus' claims, but to embrace the Truth and step closer to You. I choose to walk in obedience to Your Word, and not in rebellion against it. Amen.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Mar. 16: Who am I?
You are not what you do. You are not your job. You are not your “stuff”—your baggage, your “issues”, your shortcomings. To find out who we are, we need only check the manufacturer’s handbook. The One who made you knows who you are…what you are to be…what you are to become.
King David of Israel some 3,000 years ago expressed the identity and security he found in God in Psalm 139. Today, let's flip it around and hear it expressed from God's point of view. Hear God say to you...
I am the LORD, I have searched you and I know you.
I know when you sit and when you rise; I perceive your thoughts from afar.
I discern your going out and your lying down; I am familiar with all your ways.
Before a word is on your tongue I know it completely, I am the LORD.
I hem you in--behind and before; I have laid my hand upon you.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for you, too lofty for you to attain.
Where can you go from my Spirit? Where can you flee from my presence?
If you go up to the heavens, I are there; if you make your bed in the depths, I am there.
If you rise on the wings of the dawn, if you settle on the far side of the sea,
even there My hand will guide you, My right hand will hold you fast.
If you say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," even the darkness will not be dark to Me; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to Me.
For I created your inmost being; I knit you together in your mother's womb.
You are fearfully and wonderfully made--I created you with reverence and was awestruck by you; I hope you'll see my works as wonderful--they are for you.
Your frame was not hidden from Me when you were made in the secret place.
When you were woven together in the depths of the earth, My eyes saw your unformed body.
All the days ordained for you were written in My book before one of them came to be.
My thoughts about you are precious, My child! How vast is the sum of them! Were you to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When you awake, I am still with you.
Let Me search you, My child, and know your heart; Let Me test you and know your anxious thoughts. Let Me see if there is any offensive way in you, and lead you in the way everlasting.
(Psalms 139:1-18, 23-24)
~ Father, help me to see myself through Your eyes. Thank You for creating me with worth and purpose. Lead me to become the person You dream me to be. Amen.
King David of Israel some 3,000 years ago expressed the identity and security he found in God in Psalm 139. Today, let's flip it around and hear it expressed from God's point of view. Hear God say to you...
I am the LORD, I have searched you and I know you.
I know when you sit and when you rise; I perceive your thoughts from afar.
I discern your going out and your lying down; I am familiar with all your ways.
Before a word is on your tongue I know it completely, I am the LORD.
I hem you in--behind and before; I have laid my hand upon you.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for you, too lofty for you to attain.
Where can you go from my Spirit? Where can you flee from my presence?
If you go up to the heavens, I are there; if you make your bed in the depths, I am there.
If you rise on the wings of the dawn, if you settle on the far side of the sea,
even there My hand will guide you, My right hand will hold you fast.
If you say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," even the darkness will not be dark to Me; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to Me.
For I created your inmost being; I knit you together in your mother's womb.
You are fearfully and wonderfully made--I created you with reverence and was awestruck by you; I hope you'll see my works as wonderful--they are for you.
Your frame was not hidden from Me when you were made in the secret place.
When you were woven together in the depths of the earth, My eyes saw your unformed body.
All the days ordained for you were written in My book before one of them came to be.
My thoughts about you are precious, My child! How vast is the sum of them! Were you to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When you awake, I am still with you.
Let Me search you, My child, and know your heart; Let Me test you and know your anxious thoughts. Let Me see if there is any offensive way in you, and lead you in the way everlasting.
(Psalms 139:1-18, 23-24)
~ Father, help me to see myself through Your eyes. Thank You for creating me with worth and purpose. Lead me to become the person You dream me to be. Amen.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Mar. 15: Reversing Racism
The Associated Press reported the historic event: “Meeting on the grounds of the former Confederate Capitol of Richmond, the Virginia General Assembly voted unanimously on February 24, 2007 to express "profound regret" for the state's role in slavery.” No other state has officially apologized for slavery. Although long overdue and initially met with much resistance, the resolution passed the House 96-0 and cleared the 40-member Senate on a unanimous voice vote. The resolution also expressed regret for "the exploitation of Native Americans."
The proposed resolution made national headlines in January when one delegate said, “black citizens should get over" slavery. This resolution was a step in the right direction for a state with a history of racial bigotry. Following the abolition of slavery there was institutional discrimination, forced segregation, and other expressions of racial bias--and Virginia was certainly not alone in these things.
The AP said, “The apology is the latest in a series of strides Virginia has made in overcoming its segregationist past”, and reminded readers that Virginia elected the nation’s first African-American governor, Douglas Wilder, in 1989.
Why do I bring this up? I highlight this simply to remind us all to work toward racial reconciliation; and to call on the Church, Christ-followers, to lead the way. This should be a “no-brainer.” The refusal to express “profound regret” would in essence send the message, “we are glad this happened”: how horrible! It moves one step in the right direction to at least say, “We are sorry this happened” instead of “get over it” already.
We are all brothers and sisters. The Apostle Paul reminds us through scripture that “God has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings,” (Acts 17:26)
The Apostle John declared, “Anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And He has given us this command: ‘Whoever loves God must also love his brother.’” (1 John 4:20-21)
If something I do or say hurts my brother then I want to stop saying or doing it—because I love my brother. If my brother tells me that my acknowledging a wrong was committed and expressing “profound regret” would be a move toward healing then I want to make that move as quickly as possible—because I love my brother. What is one action you can take today to show your brother or sister of a different race that you love them like Jesus does?
~ Father, I was conditioned by my culture to see some people as inherently inferior. Forgive me for my racist attitudes and actions. Change my heart to see my brother through Christ’s eyes. Amen.
The proposed resolution made national headlines in January when one delegate said, “black citizens should get over" slavery. This resolution was a step in the right direction for a state with a history of racial bigotry. Following the abolition of slavery there was institutional discrimination, forced segregation, and other expressions of racial bias--and Virginia was certainly not alone in these things.
The AP said, “The apology is the latest in a series of strides Virginia has made in overcoming its segregationist past”, and reminded readers that Virginia elected the nation’s first African-American governor, Douglas Wilder, in 1989.
Why do I bring this up? I highlight this simply to remind us all to work toward racial reconciliation; and to call on the Church, Christ-followers, to lead the way. This should be a “no-brainer.” The refusal to express “profound regret” would in essence send the message, “we are glad this happened”: how horrible! It moves one step in the right direction to at least say, “We are sorry this happened” instead of “get over it” already.
We are all brothers and sisters. The Apostle Paul reminds us through scripture that “God has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings,” (Acts 17:26)
The Apostle John declared, “Anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And He has given us this command: ‘Whoever loves God must also love his brother.’” (1 John 4:20-21)
If something I do or say hurts my brother then I want to stop saying or doing it—because I love my brother. If my brother tells me that my acknowledging a wrong was committed and expressing “profound regret” would be a move toward healing then I want to make that move as quickly as possible—because I love my brother. What is one action you can take today to show your brother or sister of a different race that you love them like Jesus does?
~ Father, I was conditioned by my culture to see some people as inherently inferior. Forgive me for my racist attitudes and actions. Change my heart to see my brother through Christ’s eyes. Amen.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Mar. 14: God's Cathedral
Yesterday was incredible! A couple of friends and I were able to go kayaking—the first time in the water in months. In our neck of the woods we had our first 70°+ day since last Fall. The river was smooth, the wind calm and the sky blue and cloudless—beautiful.
We enjoyed playing in the wakes of the yachts and fishing boats. We saw an eagle soar. I love these times on the water, not too many man-made objects in site, just enjoying the beauty of God’s creation. It is in the outdoors, God’s cathedral, that I most intimately worship my Creator.
"The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else.” (Acts 17:24-25)
His words are recalled from memory as the eagle takes flight: “But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)
As I’m taken in by the reflection of the trees in the mirror-like surface I am reminded of the Psalm: “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” (Psalms 1:1-3) I whisper a prayer that I may anchor my life in Him and reflect His majesty.
As new vegetation and flowers are just beginning to respond to the changes in weather the verse comes to mind, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:19) God, help me to be aware of the ‘new things’ you want to do in my heart and in Your world. God, help me to see the ‘new thing’ and the potential in the people You place in my path each day.
Ah, yes! It was a good day. My soul is refreshed, my spirit soars! Where do you feel closest to God? I pray you are able to go to that place soon…and often.
~Father, thank You for this beauty of nature and the reminders I find there of Your provision and grace. Help me to worship You today and everyday, in Spirit and in Truth. Amen.
We enjoyed playing in the wakes of the yachts and fishing boats. We saw an eagle soar. I love these times on the water, not too many man-made objects in site, just enjoying the beauty of God’s creation. It is in the outdoors, God’s cathedral, that I most intimately worship my Creator.
"The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else.” (Acts 17:24-25)
His words are recalled from memory as the eagle takes flight: “But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)
As I’m taken in by the reflection of the trees in the mirror-like surface I am reminded of the Psalm: “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” (Psalms 1:1-3) I whisper a prayer that I may anchor my life in Him and reflect His majesty.
As new vegetation and flowers are just beginning to respond to the changes in weather the verse comes to mind, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:19) God, help me to be aware of the ‘new things’ you want to do in my heart and in Your world. God, help me to see the ‘new thing’ and the potential in the people You place in my path each day.
Ah, yes! It was a good day. My soul is refreshed, my spirit soars! Where do you feel closest to God? I pray you are able to go to that place soon…and often.
~Father, thank You for this beauty of nature and the reminders I find there of Your provision and grace. Help me to worship You today and everyday, in Spirit and in Truth. Amen.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Mar. 13: Too Young?
I recently spent some time with a bunch of teenagers who are excited about the difference God’s love and forgiveness has made in their lives and they want others to experience what they have. Their enthusiasm is contagious. They are not trying to force anyone to be like them, or believe like them. They are simply living joy-filled lives and making everyone around them wonder why they are so different than most the young people they read about or see on TV. They are excited to tell that their relationship with Jesus makes all the difference in their lives.
My young friend Tommy has his employer’s respect because of his enthusiasm and work ethic. He is a boss’s dream because of his punctuality, the attitude (even joy) with which he does his work, the positive way he relates to, and works with, his “teammates” in the food service industry. Tommy lives by Biblical wisdom: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” (Colossians 3:23)
I read recently that in Asia many of the churches that meet in homes are led by teenagers. The young people are hearing the Good News about Jesus and are leading the way in encouragement, worship and sharing the Gospel with others.
Timothy was a young man when the Apostle Paul handed off his ministry to him and gave this advice:
“Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12) It is exciting to see young people setting a different standard of conduct, living by a more positive value system, from the one we usually see modeled in the media, or endorsed by young celebrities and entertainers. For many of them the difference is Jesus. What makes the big difference in your life?
~ Father, thank you for the example and passion of so many young Christians. Protect their steps and sustain their growth. Use them to strengthen Your Family of Faith. Encourage them in spirit today. Amen.
My young friend Tommy has his employer’s respect because of his enthusiasm and work ethic. He is a boss’s dream because of his punctuality, the attitude (even joy) with which he does his work, the positive way he relates to, and works with, his “teammates” in the food service industry. Tommy lives by Biblical wisdom: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” (Colossians 3:23)
I read recently that in Asia many of the churches that meet in homes are led by teenagers. The young people are hearing the Good News about Jesus and are leading the way in encouragement, worship and sharing the Gospel with others.
Timothy was a young man when the Apostle Paul handed off his ministry to him and gave this advice:
“Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12) It is exciting to see young people setting a different standard of conduct, living by a more positive value system, from the one we usually see modeled in the media, or endorsed by young celebrities and entertainers. For many of them the difference is Jesus. What makes the big difference in your life?
~ Father, thank you for the example and passion of so many young Christians. Protect their steps and sustain their growth. Use them to strengthen Your Family of Faith. Encourage them in spirit today. Amen.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Mar. 12: Never too old
I attended a friend’s birthday party over the weekend—his 80th. I’ve heard 50 is the new 30. I guess 80 is the new 50. Octogenarians are becoming more common. In 1900 the average lifespan in America was in one’s mid-forties. For now, Americans are living longer, on average, than ever before.
When it comes to service, what’s age got to do with it? One of my favorite “heroes of the faith” is Caleb. When Moses led the Hebrews out of Egyptian slavery he sent 12 spies to survey the land. It was all God had promised, but for fear of the inhabitants the spies advised against taking hold of the Promised Land—except two, Joshua and Caleb. (Numbers 30)
Because of their lack of faith, God had the nation wander in the desert for 40 years until that generation died off. Joshua succeeded Moses as the nation’s leader and a new generation was ready to go into the Land of Promise. I like the part of the story when we see Caleb, at age 85, reminding Joshua of a 45-year-old promise:
"You know what the LORD said to Moses…about you and me. I was forty years old when Moses…sent me to explore the land. And I brought him back a report according to my convictions, but my brothers who went up with me made the hearts of the people melt with fear. I, however, followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly. So on that day Moses swore to me, 'The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly.' "Now then, just as the LORD promised, he has kept me alive for forty-five years since the time he said this to Moses, while Israel moved about in the desert. So here I am today, eighty-five years old! I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out; I'm just as vigorous to go out to battle now as I was then. Now give me this hill country that the LORD promised me that day.” (Joshua 14:6-12)
I love the picture of this 85-year-old running off with these 20-somethings to finally receive what he’s dreamed of for a life-time. Maybe your of retirement age, or middle age, and feeling too old to serve God, or feeling that the best years are behind you; take a page from one devoted octogenarian named Caleb: a person of conviction, wholehearted devotion, ready for action. Why not ask God to give you the heart of Caleb, the heart of a lion, in serving Him?
~ Father, strengthen me to be ready for service and ready to laid hold of Your promise. May I be measured by a heart of obedience rather than my chronological age. Amen.
When it comes to service, what’s age got to do with it? One of my favorite “heroes of the faith” is Caleb. When Moses led the Hebrews out of Egyptian slavery he sent 12 spies to survey the land. It was all God had promised, but for fear of the inhabitants the spies advised against taking hold of the Promised Land—except two, Joshua and Caleb. (Numbers 30)
Because of their lack of faith, God had the nation wander in the desert for 40 years until that generation died off. Joshua succeeded Moses as the nation’s leader and a new generation was ready to go into the Land of Promise. I like the part of the story when we see Caleb, at age 85, reminding Joshua of a 45-year-old promise:
"You know what the LORD said to Moses…about you and me. I was forty years old when Moses…sent me to explore the land. And I brought him back a report according to my convictions, but my brothers who went up with me made the hearts of the people melt with fear. I, however, followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly. So on that day Moses swore to me, 'The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly.' "Now then, just as the LORD promised, he has kept me alive for forty-five years since the time he said this to Moses, while Israel moved about in the desert. So here I am today, eighty-five years old! I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out; I'm just as vigorous to go out to battle now as I was then. Now give me this hill country that the LORD promised me that day.” (Joshua 14:6-12)
I love the picture of this 85-year-old running off with these 20-somethings to finally receive what he’s dreamed of for a life-time. Maybe your of retirement age, or middle age, and feeling too old to serve God, or feeling that the best years are behind you; take a page from one devoted octogenarian named Caleb: a person of conviction, wholehearted devotion, ready for action. Why not ask God to give you the heart of Caleb, the heart of a lion, in serving Him?
~ Father, strengthen me to be ready for service and ready to laid hold of Your promise. May I be measured by a heart of obedience rather than my chronological age. Amen.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Mar. 11: Leading With an Open Hand
In our American culture, it seems christians are known more for what we are 'against' rather than what we are 'for'. Rick Warren observes that "the Body of Christ" has been mostly "mouth" the past few decades. It is time we return to leading with an open hand. I'm not saying that we remain silent on important issues, but rather that we focus on being the "hands and feet" of Jesus first.
We might be better received if we approached people in loving service rather than with verbal debate. Actions first, then words; as opposed to lots of words with not much action. Remember the words of Jesus:
"When he finally arrives, blazing in beauty and all his angels with him, the Son of Man will take his place on his glorious throne. Then all the nations will be arranged before him and he will sort the people out, much as a shepherd sorts out sheep and goats, putting sheep to his right and goats to his left.
"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what's coming to you in this kingdom. It's been ready for you since the world's foundation. And here's why:
I was hungry and you fed me,
I was thirsty and you gave me a drink,
I was homeless and you gave me a room,
I was shivering and you gave me clothes,
I was sick and you stopped to visit,
I was in prison and you came to me.'
"Then those 'sheep' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?'
Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me— you did it to me.' (Matthew 25:31-40, The Message)
~ Father, help me to lead with acts of love... and follow-through with words of love. Amen.
We might be better received if we approached people in loving service rather than with verbal debate. Actions first, then words; as opposed to lots of words with not much action. Remember the words of Jesus:
"When he finally arrives, blazing in beauty and all his angels with him, the Son of Man will take his place on his glorious throne. Then all the nations will be arranged before him and he will sort the people out, much as a shepherd sorts out sheep and goats, putting sheep to his right and goats to his left.
"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what's coming to you in this kingdom. It's been ready for you since the world's foundation. And here's why:
I was hungry and you fed me,
I was thirsty and you gave me a drink,
I was homeless and you gave me a room,
I was shivering and you gave me clothes,
I was sick and you stopped to visit,
I was in prison and you came to me.'
"Then those 'sheep' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?'
Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me— you did it to me.' (Matthew 25:31-40, The Message)
~ Father, help me to lead with acts of love... and follow-through with words of love. Amen.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Mar. 10: Procrasti-nation
Procrastination, that fine art of putting off until tomorrow what could (or should) be done today. It’s not that the procrastinator just wants to put things off. There is a deep-down hope that if things are put off long enough they’ll simply just go away, they won’t ever have to be dealt with. That rarely happens. Maybe someone needs to start a recovery group: Procrastinators Anonymous; maybe someday someone will. :),
As “driven” as our nation has become, there also seems to be a pretty large demographic made up of procrastinators: a Procrasti-nation, if you will. But along with putting things off, hoping they’ll go away, is a great deal of anxiety, worry and mental anguish over the task one is seeking to avoid. Life would be a lot less stressful if we’d just go ahead and do whatever it is we are avoiding.
In addition to paying taxes and telling those closest to you that you love them, there are a couple of other things we should never procrastinate about:
“So be careful how you live, not as fools but as those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity for doing good in these evil days.” (Ephesians 5:15-16, NLT)
“You must encourage each other every day, as long as it is called "today," so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God.” (Hebrews 3:13, NLT)
What's the ONE THING you should do today, but you've been avoiding? Why have you put it off? What is painful about doing that task? Why not ask God for the strength, grit your teeth and, in the words of the NIKE ad, "JUST DO IT." By the way, nike is a greek word...it means victory."
~ Father, along with the other things I mustn’t put off, help me to make “doing good” and “encouraging each other” daily priorities. Give me the strength to do what I know I should and live in victory. Amen.
As “driven” as our nation has become, there also seems to be a pretty large demographic made up of procrastinators: a Procrasti-nation, if you will. But along with putting things off, hoping they’ll go away, is a great deal of anxiety, worry and mental anguish over the task one is seeking to avoid. Life would be a lot less stressful if we’d just go ahead and do whatever it is we are avoiding.
In addition to paying taxes and telling those closest to you that you love them, there are a couple of other things we should never procrastinate about:
“So be careful how you live, not as fools but as those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity for doing good in these evil days.” (Ephesians 5:15-16, NLT)
“You must encourage each other every day, as long as it is called "today," so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God.” (Hebrews 3:13, NLT)
What's the ONE THING you should do today, but you've been avoiding? Why have you put it off? What is painful about doing that task? Why not ask God for the strength, grit your teeth and, in the words of the NIKE ad, "JUST DO IT." By the way, nike is a greek word...it means victory."
~ Father, along with the other things I mustn’t put off, help me to make “doing good” and “encouraging each other” daily priorities. Give me the strength to do what I know I should and live in victory. Amen.
Friday, March 9, 2007
Mar. 9: God's Proven Word
King David of Israel often expressed himself in poetry and song. We have the lyrics to many of his songs preserved in an ancient text, The Hebrew Hymnal, or as it is usually known in Christian circles, The Book of Psalms in the Bible. Before he became King, David was King Saul's most valiant warrior and the target of the King's envy and murderous rage. Repeatedly God delivered David and protected him from his adversary.
Psalm 18 is one of my favorites. It is one of David's songs of praise and thanksgiving; "He sang to the LORD the words of this song when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul."
I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies.
Psalms 18:1-3 (NIV)
He continues down in verse 30...
"As for God, his way is perfect;
the word of the LORD is proven;
He is a shield for all who take refuge in him."
I love that promise that God is a shield for everyone who takes refuge in Him. When the heat is turned up in life people look for refuge in many places, but only one really protects, only One really is a place of safety--we run for cover to God, who is our shield!
I also like the part where it says God's word is proven. Reminds me of when David was younger, perhaps a teenager, and was going out to fight the giant named Goliath (see 1 Samuel 17). King Saul wanted David to use the King’s armor when he went out to fight Goliath. Saul put an oversized bronze helmet on David's head, covered him with a coat of armor, and belted the king's sword around his waist. Saul was tall, he stood head and shoulders above all the other men. David no doubt was swallowed up in the outfit.
David the shepherd, who was an expert marksman with a sling, knew he would be a sitting duck in the King's armor and very diplomatically declined, saying, "I cannot fight in these because I have not proven them."
Aside from the fact that they didn't fit him, these articles had not passed the test in practice, how could he be sure of how they would react in a real battle? His sling, on the other hand, was familiar and tried. He had no doubt spent hours in target-practice, maybe even learning to hit a target while running in nearly full stride.
That's the picture. In Psalm 18:30 when is says, "the word of the Lord is proven", it means it is familiar and has been tested with daily practice, so it is trusted when the giant-sized battle is the order for the day. God's word not only encourages us and instructs us through the daily ups and downs of life, but we can trust it for the once-in-lifetime kinds of battles because it has been tested and proven to be reliable.
God speaks the truth...always. His word is reliable and trustworthy. As we read the written word of God we know His thoughts, His heart. John's gospel begins by telling us, "the Word (of God) became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His (Jesus') glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14) Jesus, the Living Word, shows us what God is really like.
Spend time in the written Word and with the Living Word, test their wisdom in the daily stuff of life, and find them proven when it's time to face your giants. "As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to everyone who takes refuge in Him."
~ Father, help me to live in Your word; to see it get me through the daily struggles and prove itself to be truth in the big battles of life. Thank you for Your written Word and the Living Word; help me to find life in both. Amen.
Psalm 18 is one of my favorites. It is one of David's songs of praise and thanksgiving; "He sang to the LORD the words of this song when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul."
I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies.
Psalms 18:1-3 (NIV)
He continues down in verse 30...
"As for God, his way is perfect;
the word of the LORD is proven;
He is a shield for all who take refuge in him."
I love that promise that God is a shield for everyone who takes refuge in Him. When the heat is turned up in life people look for refuge in many places, but only one really protects, only One really is a place of safety--we run for cover to God, who is our shield!
I also like the part where it says God's word is proven. Reminds me of when David was younger, perhaps a teenager, and was going out to fight the giant named Goliath (see 1 Samuel 17). King Saul wanted David to use the King’s armor when he went out to fight Goliath. Saul put an oversized bronze helmet on David's head, covered him with a coat of armor, and belted the king's sword around his waist. Saul was tall, he stood head and shoulders above all the other men. David no doubt was swallowed up in the outfit.
David the shepherd, who was an expert marksman with a sling, knew he would be a sitting duck in the King's armor and very diplomatically declined, saying, "I cannot fight in these because I have not proven them."
Aside from the fact that they didn't fit him, these articles had not passed the test in practice, how could he be sure of how they would react in a real battle? His sling, on the other hand, was familiar and tried. He had no doubt spent hours in target-practice, maybe even learning to hit a target while running in nearly full stride.
That's the picture. In Psalm 18:30 when is says, "the word of the Lord is proven", it means it is familiar and has been tested with daily practice, so it is trusted when the giant-sized battle is the order for the day. God's word not only encourages us and instructs us through the daily ups and downs of life, but we can trust it for the once-in-lifetime kinds of battles because it has been tested and proven to be reliable.
God speaks the truth...always. His word is reliable and trustworthy. As we read the written word of God we know His thoughts, His heart. John's gospel begins by telling us, "the Word (of God) became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His (Jesus') glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14) Jesus, the Living Word, shows us what God is really like.
Spend time in the written Word and with the Living Word, test their wisdom in the daily stuff of life, and find them proven when it's time to face your giants. "As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to everyone who takes refuge in Him."
~ Father, help me to live in Your word; to see it get me through the daily struggles and prove itself to be truth in the big battles of life. Thank you for Your written Word and the Living Word; help me to find life in both. Amen.
Thursday, March 8, 2007
Mar. 8: Cross in a Box
Here in Southeast Virginia there is a battle raging over a brass cross. Here’s the short story: At Wren Chapel on the campus of William and Mary University in Williamsburg, VA an 18-inch tall brass cross had sat on the altar table for over 60 years. Back in October 2006 the school’s President, Gene Nichol, asked that it be stored out of sight when not in use; since the chapel is also used for secular activities, he wanted the room to feel more welcoming to all faiths.
Well, all you-know-what broke loose (including petition drives and at least one lawsuit) with the local news and even the national media getting in on the action. The school’s president later returned the cross to the altar on Sundays and created a committee to study the issue. The 14-member committee of students, alumni, faculty and others has reached a compromise that will put the controversial cross back on display…in a glass case in a "prominent, readily visible place" in the chapel - not on the altar – and will be described by a historical plaque.
All you-know-what broke loose again. Critics complain of “political-correctness run amok”. Some observers with a more cynical streak feel that the threat of donors (one recently withdrew a promised $12 million gift because of the controversy) had an impact on the decision. The local paper polled readers: “Do you agree with the W&M decision to permanently display the Wren Chapel cross in a glass case not on the altar?” to which 49.7% said yes, 46.6% said no, and 3.7% were undecided.
The community is pretty much split down the middle over the issue. One reader said, “This reminds me of when the Soviet Union turned churches into museums; "Here behind the glass is a cross that represented the imperialist government before our great party liberated the people and ushered in an area of enlightenment, free from the shackles of a so-called god. And now we live in peace, harmony, and prosperity.”
At least one reader didn’t think the move went far enough: Nelson T. of Norfolk wrote: “We who disdain our Christian heritage find this cross, this symbol of the Christian church, to be despicable, in that it may possibly offend others, especially those less fortunate, and might even encourage them to (gasp) dislike us. We demand it be removed from any and all positions of influence, be they public or private, and we promise to character-assassinate all those who continue to bear this cross. Change it. Move it. Better yet, remove it. We don't want it. Get it out of our society. We demand greater tolerance!”
How’s that for tolerance?! Anyway, it seems to me that if you put it in a box and put a historical marker on it you’re saying, "This is part of the past." The cross, more importantly the Savior whom it represents, should be part of our present. In fact, I’m not a big fan of brass crosses anyway. While symbols are important, it’s substance that counts—not what we say, but what we do. Not what we stick on an altar table or wear around our necks, but how we treat our fellow-travelers.
Jesus had something to say about the cross: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it." (Luke 9:23-24) If I follow Jesus like that, and love people the way He did, maybe guys like Nelson would see Jesus and His followers in a different light.
~ Father, help me to stay focused on what’s really important. Help me to care less about defending religious turf and more about seeing your lost children found, and those imprisoned set free. Amen.
Well, all you-know-what broke loose (including petition drives and at least one lawsuit) with the local news and even the national media getting in on the action. The school’s president later returned the cross to the altar on Sundays and created a committee to study the issue. The 14-member committee of students, alumni, faculty and others has reached a compromise that will put the controversial cross back on display…in a glass case in a "prominent, readily visible place" in the chapel - not on the altar – and will be described by a historical plaque.
All you-know-what broke loose again. Critics complain of “political-correctness run amok”. Some observers with a more cynical streak feel that the threat of donors (one recently withdrew a promised $12 million gift because of the controversy) had an impact on the decision. The local paper polled readers: “Do you agree with the W&M decision to permanently display the Wren Chapel cross in a glass case not on the altar?” to which 49.7% said yes, 46.6% said no, and 3.7% were undecided.
The community is pretty much split down the middle over the issue. One reader said, “This reminds me of when the Soviet Union turned churches into museums; "Here behind the glass is a cross that represented the imperialist government before our great party liberated the people and ushered in an area of enlightenment, free from the shackles of a so-called god. And now we live in peace, harmony, and prosperity.”
At least one reader didn’t think the move went far enough: Nelson T. of Norfolk wrote: “We who disdain our Christian heritage find this cross, this symbol of the Christian church, to be despicable, in that it may possibly offend others, especially those less fortunate, and might even encourage them to (gasp) dislike us. We demand it be removed from any and all positions of influence, be they public or private, and we promise to character-assassinate all those who continue to bear this cross. Change it. Move it. Better yet, remove it. We don't want it. Get it out of our society. We demand greater tolerance!”
How’s that for tolerance?! Anyway, it seems to me that if you put it in a box and put a historical marker on it you’re saying, "This is part of the past." The cross, more importantly the Savior whom it represents, should be part of our present. In fact, I’m not a big fan of brass crosses anyway. While symbols are important, it’s substance that counts—not what we say, but what we do. Not what we stick on an altar table or wear around our necks, but how we treat our fellow-travelers.
Jesus had something to say about the cross: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it." (Luke 9:23-24) If I follow Jesus like that, and love people the way He did, maybe guys like Nelson would see Jesus and His followers in a different light.
~ Father, help me to stay focused on what’s really important. Help me to care less about defending religious turf and more about seeing your lost children found, and those imprisoned set free. Amen.
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Mar. 7: My First A.A. Meeting
Well, Monday night I attended my first AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) meeting. I’ve been intending to go for a while, but didn’t have an urgent need. “Hello, my name is Jim, and I’m…”
What am I, exactly? I have some areas of weakness, but my Achilles’ Heel is not alcohol. I am a recovering legalistic Christian—on a journey to become an authentic Christ-follower. My friend Steve was speaking at the AA meeting and invited me to go along. We started off with a portion of The Serenity Prayer by Reinhold Niebuhr: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.”
It was a lot like church but without the singing or the typical pretentiousness—it was honest in a way that church meetings usually aren’t. I learned that, “Alcoholics Anonymous® is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking… Their primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.”
They call the group a “fellowship” and have “The Big Book” of AA. It possessed some things most churches could use a little more of—a spirit of equality and acceptance, a genuine atmosphere of concern and accountability, a clear and unifying purpose, and a depth of courage and honesty too rarely encountered in most circles.
The Twelve Steps to recovery for those involved in the process are:
1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.
2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.
4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
5. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
7. Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.
9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these Steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs. (Copyright © A.A. World Services, Inc., Rev.5/9/02)
I couldn’t help wondering what our churches would look like if we pursued these steps to wholeness and transparent relationship with the same tenacity I witnessed there. We concluded the meeting, holding hands in a big circle, and saying The Lord’s Prayer together:
“Our Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.”
Yeah, it was a lot like what church should be, but I still need the singing.
~ Father, thank you for pursuing us in order to rescue us, no matter what our weakness. Give us the courage and honesty needed to find the healing You desire for us all. Amen.
What am I, exactly? I have some areas of weakness, but my Achilles’ Heel is not alcohol. I am a recovering legalistic Christian—on a journey to become an authentic Christ-follower. My friend Steve was speaking at the AA meeting and invited me to go along. We started off with a portion of The Serenity Prayer by Reinhold Niebuhr: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.”
It was a lot like church but without the singing or the typical pretentiousness—it was honest in a way that church meetings usually aren’t. I learned that, “Alcoholics Anonymous® is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking… Their primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.”
They call the group a “fellowship” and have “The Big Book” of AA. It possessed some things most churches could use a little more of—a spirit of equality and acceptance, a genuine atmosphere of concern and accountability, a clear and unifying purpose, and a depth of courage and honesty too rarely encountered in most circles.
The Twelve Steps to recovery for those involved in the process are:
1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.
2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.
4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
5. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
7. Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.
9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these Steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs. (Copyright © A.A. World Services, Inc., Rev.5/9/02)
I couldn’t help wondering what our churches would look like if we pursued these steps to wholeness and transparent relationship with the same tenacity I witnessed there. We concluded the meeting, holding hands in a big circle, and saying The Lord’s Prayer together:
“Our Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.”
Yeah, it was a lot like what church should be, but I still need the singing.
~ Father, thank you for pursuing us in order to rescue us, no matter what our weakness. Give us the courage and honesty needed to find the healing You desire for us all. Amen.
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Mar. 6: What's Your Kryptonite?
My friend Jim is a big guy, about 6-foot-5, around 280 pounds—a man’s man, a real-life Superman—at least his wife thinks so. She gives him cool gifts with the Superman logo emblazoned upon them to remind him that he’s her hero, her Superman.
You remember Superman—the man of steel, faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound—that’s the guy. Even Superman had a weakness—kryptonite. This glowing rock from his former home planet was the only thing that could bring the Man of Steel to his knees, as weak as a baby.
What’s your kryptonite? Everybody I know has at least one area of weakness that dogs them for a lifetime, unless they find a way to master it and break its hold on their life. The Bible calls this a “besetting sin”, these parasitic sins that so easily entangle us and trip us up (see Hebrews 12:1). Sometimes the Enemy gets a particular stronghold in one area of our lives—maybe it’s alcoholism or substance abuse, self-loathing or lust—the possibilities are endless. They cripple us, stunt our growth, and kill our dreams. How does God respond to these weaknesses and our failures?
He knows our weaknesses and He knows what it is to be tempted, tested and pushed to the limit. “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)
“Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear…Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. (Hebrews 2:14, 16)
He not only knows our weakness and identifies with our suffering, but He empowers us and sets us free! “For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom; and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.” (1 Corinthians 1:25) We sang the song as children, “Jesus loves me, this I know for the Bible tells me so; little ones to Him belong, they are weak, but He is strong.”
He not only sets us free, but turns our greatest weakness into our greatest strength. The Apostle wrote, “But the Lord said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) God can take our deepest wound, our greatest weakness, heal it, and then use it to encourage and heal others who are fighting the same battle.
So I ask you again, what’s your kryptonite? Jesus understands your struggle. Jesus can set you free. Jesus can use your wound, and its healing, to be a source of healing in other people’s lives. Rick Warren says, “God never wastes an experience.” Don’t hide your weakness or wound from God in fear or shame. Trust Him with it, He can set you free.
~ Father, thank you for clothing yourself in human flesh and walking in our shoes. Help me not to hide from You in fear or shame, but to trust You to set me free from the strongholds in my life. Amen.
You remember Superman—the man of steel, faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound—that’s the guy. Even Superman had a weakness—kryptonite. This glowing rock from his former home planet was the only thing that could bring the Man of Steel to his knees, as weak as a baby.
What’s your kryptonite? Everybody I know has at least one area of weakness that dogs them for a lifetime, unless they find a way to master it and break its hold on their life. The Bible calls this a “besetting sin”, these parasitic sins that so easily entangle us and trip us up (see Hebrews 12:1). Sometimes the Enemy gets a particular stronghold in one area of our lives—maybe it’s alcoholism or substance abuse, self-loathing or lust—the possibilities are endless. They cripple us, stunt our growth, and kill our dreams. How does God respond to these weaknesses and our failures?
He knows our weaknesses and He knows what it is to be tempted, tested and pushed to the limit. “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)
“Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear…Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. (Hebrews 2:14, 16)
He not only knows our weakness and identifies with our suffering, but He empowers us and sets us free! “For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom; and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.” (1 Corinthians 1:25) We sang the song as children, “Jesus loves me, this I know for the Bible tells me so; little ones to Him belong, they are weak, but He is strong.”
He not only sets us free, but turns our greatest weakness into our greatest strength. The Apostle wrote, “But the Lord said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) God can take our deepest wound, our greatest weakness, heal it, and then use it to encourage and heal others who are fighting the same battle.
So I ask you again, what’s your kryptonite? Jesus understands your struggle. Jesus can set you free. Jesus can use your wound, and its healing, to be a source of healing in other people’s lives. Rick Warren says, “God never wastes an experience.” Don’t hide your weakness or wound from God in fear or shame. Trust Him with it, He can set you free.
~ Father, thank you for clothing yourself in human flesh and walking in our shoes. Help me not to hide from You in fear or shame, but to trust You to set me free from the strongholds in my life. Amen.
Monday, March 5, 2007
Mar. 5: Coming Home
Our oldest child returned from college to spend a week at home—Spring Break! Now, I’m ever so grateful that the choice was to spend some time at home with dear ol’ Mom and Dad instead of heading south to some warm, exotic place for the “holiday”. (It couldn’t just be a lack of finances, could it? Nah.)
The truth is, we’re pretty tight as a family and enjoy each other’s company (yea, that’s it). Whatever the motives, we are glad to have everyone home for a little while. There’s always something about coming home. We love being together as a family. For some, the idea of going home is not always good, depending on what kind of “baggage” exists, what kind of pain and harsh words may have been exchanged in the past. Some people dread going home.
One of my favorite chunks of scripture is in Hebrews, chapters Ten through Twelve. The writer, at a point in the tenth chapter, begins to encourage believer; "do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised…we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved.” (vv. 35-39)
In the next chapter we find what’s often called “The Roll Call of Faith”, those men and women of the Bible and of history who kept the faith, who persevered, who did not shrink in the face of difficulty, nor wilt under the heat of persecution. “By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did…by faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death…By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family…By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going…By faith Abraham, even though he was past age--and Sarah herself was barren--was enabled to become a father because he considered him faithful who had made the promise; and so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore.”
We are told that “all these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth… If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country--a heavenly one; Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city (a home) for them.” (vv. 13-16).
He continues describing the faith of Old Testament heroes, and then begins to describe those who at the time he was writing modern-day heroes—martyrs of the faith: “Women received back their dead, raised to life again. Others were tortured and refused to be released… Some faced jeers and flogging, while still others were chained and put in prison. They were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated—the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground. These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised.”
Then in verse 40 he concludes, “God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.” The plan will not be complete until people of faith, from all ages and all nations are united one day—now that’s a Home Coming! I don’t know about you, but I want to see that! I want to be part of that family!
Then he tells us how: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Hebrews 12:1-3)
~ Father, thank you for wanting to include me in Your Forever Family. Help me to persevere, to not grow weary and lose heart—help me to keep the faith; And when I stumble at times, thank You for keeping me even when I can’t keep it all together. Amen.
The truth is, we’re pretty tight as a family and enjoy each other’s company (yea, that’s it). Whatever the motives, we are glad to have everyone home for a little while. There’s always something about coming home. We love being together as a family. For some, the idea of going home is not always good, depending on what kind of “baggage” exists, what kind of pain and harsh words may have been exchanged in the past. Some people dread going home.
One of my favorite chunks of scripture is in Hebrews, chapters Ten through Twelve. The writer, at a point in the tenth chapter, begins to encourage believer; "do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised…we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved.” (vv. 35-39)
In the next chapter we find what’s often called “The Roll Call of Faith”, those men and women of the Bible and of history who kept the faith, who persevered, who did not shrink in the face of difficulty, nor wilt under the heat of persecution. “By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did…by faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death…By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family…By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going…By faith Abraham, even though he was past age--and Sarah herself was barren--was enabled to become a father because he considered him faithful who had made the promise; and so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore.”
We are told that “all these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth… If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country--a heavenly one; Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city (a home) for them.” (vv. 13-16).
He continues describing the faith of Old Testament heroes, and then begins to describe those who at the time he was writing modern-day heroes—martyrs of the faith: “Women received back their dead, raised to life again. Others were tortured and refused to be released… Some faced jeers and flogging, while still others were chained and put in prison. They were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated—the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground. These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised.”
Then in verse 40 he concludes, “God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.” The plan will not be complete until people of faith, from all ages and all nations are united one day—now that’s a Home Coming! I don’t know about you, but I want to see that! I want to be part of that family!
Then he tells us how: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Hebrews 12:1-3)
~ Father, thank you for wanting to include me in Your Forever Family. Help me to persevere, to not grow weary and lose heart—help me to keep the faith; And when I stumble at times, thank You for keeping me even when I can’t keep it all together. Amen.
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Mar. 4: What's Your Motivation?
I find that people are generally motivated by guilt, shame, fear, duty, desire for approval, a desire to correct others, greed, etc.,
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul revealed his motivation: “If we are out of our mind, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. (2 Corinthians 5:13-15)
That word “compel” often means to force, require, coerce, make, twist someone’s arm or lean on. Here it simply means "motivates".
I’ve met some Christians (and used to be the type) that are motivated to persuade others to become "Christians" for all the wrong reasons.
Our “sharing our faith” must be less about convincing people they are sinners and selling them a ticket to heaven, and more about sharing the good news that a person can be set free to have a relationship with the God who created them and loves them. My friend Tom says, “We are sinners, but Jesus didn’t come to simply point out that fact, and then let us know what a nice person he was because he was willing to forgive our sins. He forgave our sins so that we could now be adopted as sons & daughters and be brought into a loving relationship with a God who is crazy about us!”
It’s less about a ticket to heaven and more about receiving forgiveness and reconciliation with God—abundant life here and now.
Jesus said, “If you love Me you will keep (obey) my commands. Our obedience should only be motivated by love and nothing else. Again, my friend Tom often reminds me, “If our obedience is motivated by fear (of judgment, punishment), guilt, duty, obligation, etc., then it is not the proper motivation. I honestly think that these forces motivate most of our Christian activity. We may say that we ‘love’ God, but it is a fair question to ask if ‘love’ is really the motivating force, or are there other motivating forces (‘right thing to do’, my duty as a ‘good Christian’, wanting to be respected by others in church, trying to earn God’s blessing, etc,). If we were truly honest, most of us are not motivated by love at all.”
So the proper order of things should be realizing that God loves you and loving Him in return; and realizing that since He loves you, He must love other people, too; and then your love for Him motivates you to love and serve other people like He does.
I recently received an ad for a HUGE Youth program; stadium events being held around the country with Big Name preachers and bands. The whole point was that we have to reach this generation NOW or else… "our pews will be empty, no one listen to your sermons, no one to put money in the plate unless we reach this generation of youth"—all the wrong motives. Whatever happened to serving and loving people because God loves them and wants them to be free?
~ Father, help me to do the right thing for the right reasons. Help me to love people just because You love them and want them to be free. Amen.
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul revealed his motivation: “If we are out of our mind, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. (2 Corinthians 5:13-15)
That word “compel” often means to force, require, coerce, make, twist someone’s arm or lean on. Here it simply means "motivates".
I’ve met some Christians (and used to be the type) that are motivated to persuade others to become "Christians" for all the wrong reasons.
Our “sharing our faith” must be less about convincing people they are sinners and selling them a ticket to heaven, and more about sharing the good news that a person can be set free to have a relationship with the God who created them and loves them. My friend Tom says, “We are sinners, but Jesus didn’t come to simply point out that fact, and then let us know what a nice person he was because he was willing to forgive our sins. He forgave our sins so that we could now be adopted as sons & daughters and be brought into a loving relationship with a God who is crazy about us!”
It’s less about a ticket to heaven and more about receiving forgiveness and reconciliation with God—abundant life here and now.
Jesus said, “If you love Me you will keep (obey) my commands. Our obedience should only be motivated by love and nothing else. Again, my friend Tom often reminds me, “If our obedience is motivated by fear (of judgment, punishment), guilt, duty, obligation, etc., then it is not the proper motivation. I honestly think that these forces motivate most of our Christian activity. We may say that we ‘love’ God, but it is a fair question to ask if ‘love’ is really the motivating force, or are there other motivating forces (‘right thing to do’, my duty as a ‘good Christian’, wanting to be respected by others in church, trying to earn God’s blessing, etc,). If we were truly honest, most of us are not motivated by love at all.”
So the proper order of things should be realizing that God loves you and loving Him in return; and realizing that since He loves you, He must love other people, too; and then your love for Him motivates you to love and serve other people like He does.
I recently received an ad for a HUGE Youth program; stadium events being held around the country with Big Name preachers and bands. The whole point was that we have to reach this generation NOW or else… "our pews will be empty, no one listen to your sermons, no one to put money in the plate unless we reach this generation of youth"—all the wrong motives. Whatever happened to serving and loving people because God loves them and wants them to be free?
~ Father, help me to do the right thing for the right reasons. Help me to love people just because You love them and want them to be free. Amen.
Saturday, March 3, 2007
Mar. 3: Spring Cleaning
Today’s weather forecast for our neck of the woods calls for sunny and 68°. It looks like spring is here and it’s time for that annual ritual of spring cleaning. We’ll empty rooms of all their contents, wash curtains, scrub baseboards, vacuum the floors, sift through accumulated clutter, throwing things away, giving things away, preparing for a yard sale (yuk!), and placing back in the room only what is essential, now all spick and span. This is a process, not an event, and not for the weak of heart.
Just as we have a physical house-cleaning there are also traditions of spiritual “house-cleaning”. New Year’s is a time re-evaluating and making changes. The Christian season of Lent has and element of searching out any “un-confessed sin”, and repenting (turning away). Likewise the Jewish Passover begins with searching out any leaven (yeast) in the house and getting rid of it—the leaven being a symbol of anything unholy. There is a need to do regular “spiritual spring cleaning”, to allow God to search us and see if there are any destructive habits. We need to determine if there is any point at which we have believed Satan’s lies and allowed any enemy strongholds to be established in our lives.
King David said, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalms 139:23-24)
In the New Testament we are instructed to, “come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:8-10)
Why not take some time today to be still and ask God to search and cleanse you, and let Him do a little spiritual spring-cleaning in your soul? Like our spring cleaning, this too is a process, not an event, and not for the weak of heart.
~ Father, search me and see if there is anything in me that is not pleasing to You. Give me the courage and trust to let You change me to be what You dream me to be. Amen.
Just as we have a physical house-cleaning there are also traditions of spiritual “house-cleaning”. New Year’s is a time re-evaluating and making changes. The Christian season of Lent has and element of searching out any “un-confessed sin”, and repenting (turning away). Likewise the Jewish Passover begins with searching out any leaven (yeast) in the house and getting rid of it—the leaven being a symbol of anything unholy. There is a need to do regular “spiritual spring cleaning”, to allow God to search us and see if there are any destructive habits. We need to determine if there is any point at which we have believed Satan’s lies and allowed any enemy strongholds to be established in our lives.
King David said, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalms 139:23-24)
In the New Testament we are instructed to, “come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:8-10)
Why not take some time today to be still and ask God to search and cleanse you, and let Him do a little spiritual spring-cleaning in your soul? Like our spring cleaning, this too is a process, not an event, and not for the weak of heart.
~ Father, search me and see if there is anything in me that is not pleasing to You. Give me the courage and trust to let You change me to be what You dream me to be. Amen.
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Mar. 1: Bone-ified Jesus?
“Dem bones, dem bones, dem dry bones”
So the new big controversy is over some ossuaries that were discovered in 1980. There are those who claim these boxes hold the remains of Jesus of Nazareth and Mary Magdalene.
“Dem bones, dem bones, dem dry bones”
It seems to me that if the rumor was true that Jesus’ “disciples came during the night and stole him away while the Roman guards were asleep” (Matthew 12:13); that there was no resurrection as Christians have claimed for nearly 2,000 years; if those disciples were just a bunch of lying tomb-robbers trying to start a new religion, etc.,
Then it seems to me that they would have gotten rid of any evidence of a physical body in case someone came across the remains later and proved the whole claim to be a hoax. Why take a chance of being found out by leaving the evidence lying around? Had they been scheming they would have covered their tracks.
“Dem bones, dem bones, dem dry bones”
It seems to me that some folks bend over backwards to NOT believe the Bible. So the old question arises again, “what if the skeptics are right and I’m wrong?” Then I’ve spent my whole life believing a lie, trying to love and serve my fellow-man. But what if I’m right and they’re wrong? Then there is a God who has revealed Himself through creation, prophets, written scripture and clothing Himself in flesh to identify with humans and clarify His purpose and plans. What if the claims of the first Christ-followers are accurate?
Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance : that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles…” (1 Corinthians 15:1-7)
“Don’t you hear the word of the Lord?”
I’ll take my stand on the historical accuracy of the Bible. There are no bones to find. Jesus was raised from the dead, but He didn’t die again. Eyewitnesses recount that…
“After his suffering, Jesus showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. (Acts 1:3)“when he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. (Luke 24:50-51)
He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." (Acts 1:9-11)
Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy.” (Luke 24:50-52)
I don’t know whose bones are in the box, but I don’t for one second believe they are the bones of the Jesus of the gospels in the New Testament of the Bible.
~ Father, help me not to be seduced into disbelief by the latest claims of skeptics. While some say, “seeing is believing”, help me to hold to the conviction that “believing is seeing.” Amen.
So the new big controversy is over some ossuaries that were discovered in 1980. There are those who claim these boxes hold the remains of Jesus of Nazareth and Mary Magdalene.
“Dem bones, dem bones, dem dry bones”
It seems to me that if the rumor was true that Jesus’ “disciples came during the night and stole him away while the Roman guards were asleep” (Matthew 12:13); that there was no resurrection as Christians have claimed for nearly 2,000 years; if those disciples were just a bunch of lying tomb-robbers trying to start a new religion, etc.,
Then it seems to me that they would have gotten rid of any evidence of a physical body in case someone came across the remains later and proved the whole claim to be a hoax. Why take a chance of being found out by leaving the evidence lying around? Had they been scheming they would have covered their tracks.
“Dem bones, dem bones, dem dry bones”
It seems to me that some folks bend over backwards to NOT believe the Bible. So the old question arises again, “what if the skeptics are right and I’m wrong?” Then I’ve spent my whole life believing a lie, trying to love and serve my fellow-man. But what if I’m right and they’re wrong? Then there is a God who has revealed Himself through creation, prophets, written scripture and clothing Himself in flesh to identify with humans and clarify His purpose and plans. What if the claims of the first Christ-followers are accurate?
Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance : that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles…” (1 Corinthians 15:1-7)
“Don’t you hear the word of the Lord?”
I’ll take my stand on the historical accuracy of the Bible. There are no bones to find. Jesus was raised from the dead, but He didn’t die again. Eyewitnesses recount that…
“After his suffering, Jesus showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. (Acts 1:3)“when he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. (Luke 24:50-51)
He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." (Acts 1:9-11)
Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy.” (Luke 24:50-52)
I don’t know whose bones are in the box, but I don’t for one second believe they are the bones of the Jesus of the gospels in the New Testament of the Bible.
~ Father, help me not to be seduced into disbelief by the latest claims of skeptics. While some say, “seeing is believing”, help me to hold to the conviction that “believing is seeing.” Amen.
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