How to Manufacture Conflict

Scripture: Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia—who began to argue with Stephen. Acts 6:8-9

Observation: There is something complex happening as the Church grows. Already, the apostles have had to appoint deacons explicitly because of an issue involving the care of 'Hellenistic' versus Hebrew widows (the former - Jews who have embraced Greek culture - felt they were being discriminated against). Stephen, a Hellenistic Jew, is appointed deacon, and soon is in conflict with devout Jews who themselves are Hellenistic.

It seems this is the first indication of cultural conflict within the early Church. The believers have always been - and still are - all Jews, however there is now a division in the cultural thinking and behaviors of the believers. The nature of this division is unclear. Hellenists spoke Greek, but at this point in time everyone spoke Greek (though Jews in Judea would likely have had Aramaic and Hebrew as their primary languages). More likely, Hellenists are those who have fully adopted the culture of Asia Minor ... they likely dress differently, and while they are still Jews and therefore comply with the practices of the Law they likely integrate other Greek/Roman practices into their lives (like embracing entertainment like theater, and participating in philosophical debate that isn't scripture-oriented).

These differences seem minor and irrelevant. However, for some reason, back-to-back incidents now call them out as a point of conflict both within the body of believers and between the believers and their cultural cohort. Between two people-groups who, at their core, believe the same things, division arises because of - what seems to be - an unsubstantiated perception that one group considers themselves superior.

And yes, that is the conflict. The Hellenistic widows believe they are being discriminated against by Church leaders. The Hellenistic Jews believe they are being bested in debate by a fellow Hellenist who is also a 'follower of The Way'. In short, the Hellenists themselves seem to have declared themselves to be a separate people-group, chosen to highlight actions by the Church they feel discriminate against them, and thus accused individuals of wrongdoing (even within the Church itself).

Application: I am reminded of the movie The American President where, in a press meeting near the end, he describes exactly how someone creates conflict ... you define a 'good' people group, convince them of their victimhood, point out a person who doesn't fit that definition, then pick one action of that person that seems flawed, and now everyone believes that person is their enemy.

We know Stephen wasn't doing anything wrong. We can infer the Church wasn't doing anything wrong when the Hellenistic widows complained (the apostles even described the issue as "waiting on tables" almost dismissively, even as they addressed it). However, a group was defined ... they described an issue that made them victims ... the actions of others were called out ... and conflict ensued.

Obviously this pattern applies to every social/economic/geopolitical issue of the day. I expect this pattern is a tool satan has found effective in destroying mankind and harming the Lord's creation. And I hate this pattern.

Prayer: Lord, I am aware there are people who hate me because they have defined themselves, outlined their victimhood, and identified me and/or those like me as the enemy. To the extent I have done this myself, please forgive me and give me your wisdom to reject this pattern in my life. While I abhor sin and desire its rejection in society, may I find ways to love people even when they are different from me. Amen.

Plots Change Situations, not Lives

Scripture: Joab son of Zeruiah knew that the king’s heart longed for Absalom. So Joab sent someone to Tekoa and had a wise woman brought from there. He said to her, “Pretend you are in mourning. Dress in mourning clothes, and don’t use any cosmetic lotions. Act like a woman who has spent many days grieving for the dead. Then go to the king and speak these words to him.” And Joab put the words in her mouth. 2 Samuel 14:1-3

Observation: Over and over, there are advisors to the leaders of Jerusalem who - for lack of a better term - plot and scheme to advance their earthly thinking. These plots often seem bad at the time they are initiated, and turn out even worse. The case of Absalom is one such example. Absalom killed his half-brother. He clearly has a heart of pride and arrogance, as will be proven through every action of his recorded life. Yet Joab wants to convince David to allow Absalom to live in Jerusalem and be re-accepted as a prince. This will go terrible.

It seems the question 'why would Joab plot to influence this action' goes unanswered. However, perhaps in the very first sentence here the question in answered. Joab coordinated a plot to manipulate Absalom's return because ... David was sad over the absence of Absalom. Joab wanted to "fix" that. In doing so, he completely ignored the fact that God could have fixed this simply by speaking to David to do it. He thought he was the one wise being who could advise the king, and then even went so far as to assume the king wasn't wise enough to even listen to his council and thus he needed to roleplay a lie and manipulate the logic to present the advice.

The fact was that Absalom was a bad man and had imposed an exile upon himself knowing the proper punishment for his actions was death. Joab wanted to change the situation (the exile), but didn't want to address the problem (Absalom's character). This may be a key point when it comes to the way people in the bible manipulate and plot to change situations. They plot to change the situation, but do not address the reasons for the existing situation. The list of circumstances to which this applies is ... far too much to even list. Cain's anger over rejection, Abraham's negotiation for Sodom, Jacob's feud with Laban, Reuben's quest for reconciliation, Saul's subtle disobedience ... these are just a few cases where people feel justified in actions they conceive to correct a circumstance without correcting underlying causes.

On the flip side, that isn't what God does. God addresses the root issue and changes the underlying cause of the issue, then allows the issue to resolve from there. The broad-spread sin of the world, the arrogance of Joseph, Israel's fear to enter the land, David's lust ... in all cases, the Lord addresses not the worldly issue created by the issue, but the nature and heart that caused the issue, sometimes over years and decades of correction, which then creates a different outcome.

And this is how Jesus also interacted with people. He didn't just forgive their sin; He didn't just give poor people money; He didn't just heal and forget. Instead, Jesus would then speak and teach into the hearts of all, giving a lesson to repent, to change, and to believe in faith in the promise of the Messiah. He wanted lives - not conditions - to change, and even corrected people when their conditions improved but they retained their old lifestyles.

Application: The Church today has a lot of plots to help people's situations, but we sincerely lack efforts to address underlying behaviors and thus change lives. Some churches have gone so far as to embrace, support, and encourage those underlying behaviors, affirming lifestyles that destroy lives. That is how people respond to problems, but it isn't how Jesus wants us to respond.

Prayer: Lord, I know of only one hope for the lives of the people of the world, and that is Jesus. I know there are issues that my own hard heart creates, and sometimes I pray to you to change those situations. Today, I pray, please soften my heart and change the conditions within me that may create worldly issues around me, so I may better reflect your love toward others. Amen.

How to Respond to Threats

Scripture: Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. Acts 4:27

Observation: Peter and John have been released after being punished for their preaching, and the prayer they declare includes this line. They know that persecution against believers will continue, for even the leaders plotted against Jesus - the anointed Messiah - himself.

However, where is the evidence of such plotting by Herod and Pilate? In the four gospels, at no time does Herod plot against Jesus ... he desires to see him when he is arrested and is disappointed that Jesus will not answer his questions, but has no say in his crucifixion. Likewise, Pilate is never stated to be involved in any of the conversations to arrest Jesus or in any way oppose his ministry, and while he does sentence Jesus to death he does so by coercion of the priests, not apparently on the advice of any Gentiles or "people of Israel". Furthermore, there is no indication that Herod and Pilate ever "met together" and even discussed Jesus at any point.

So, if these events did not take place before Jesus was crucified ... they must have taken place afterward. In fact, we know Herod and Pilate did meet afterward, for at one point we are told that the situation involving Jesus improved their relationship. In addition, the movement of the Church in Jerusalem has not gone unnoticed as it now involves several thousand people, and certainly both rulers would have discussed what (if anything) to do about this new sect. They would have consulted their advisors - both Roman officials and Jerusalem city leaders - and shared their opinions with each other.

Therefore, when the Church says that Herod and Pilate conspire against Jesus, they are really saying that the conspiracy is against those who believe in Jesus as Messiah. The Church is, indeed, the body of Christ, and Christ is the son of God. In this manner, a plot to destroy the Church is a plot against Yahweh.

And how does the Church wish to respond to this threat? As stated in verses 29-30, they wish to be given even more boldness to preach the gospel, and to be able to heal and serve others out of an overflow of their love and generosity to all in the world.

Application: Today, "Herod and Pontius Pilate" can be replaced by any number of leaders who desire control and power, from government officials to leaders of movements and ideals, all of which oppose the teachings of Jesus. They conspire and coordinate - sometimes overtly, sometimes simply by programmatic alignment - in a manner that opposes the Church, condemns faith, and dismisses Jesus. Just like Herod and Pilate, they even hide behind good-sounding ideals, then convincing the masses that faith in Jesus is somehow opposed to the public good.

How should I respond to this? How should all of us who believe in Jesus respond to the threats and hate and lies poured out upon us by those who are deceived by satan to oppose the Lord?

We should love others, serving and caring for them. We should use our resources to offer kindness to all. We should desire to continue to help the downtrodden, even seeking miraculous healing for those who don't believe. And above all, we should continue to simply declare the good news of salvation by faith in Jesus.

Prayer: Lord, loving others is one of the hardest things to do as a Christian, which is probably why it was the key command Jesus personally declared. May I find ways to love others today, even if those individuals live in a manner that supports opposition to my faith and knowledge of Jesus. Amen.

Celebrate the Lord's Presence Everywhere

Scripture: Go and tell my servant David, "This is what the Lord says: Are you the one to build me a house to dwell in? I have not dwelt in a house from the day I brought the Israelites up out of Egypt to this day. I have been moving from place to place with a tent as my dwelling. Wherever I have moved with all the Israelites, did I ever say to any of their rulers whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, 'Why have you not built me a house of cedar?'" 2 Samuel 7:5-7

Observation: David has an idea to build Yahweh a temple, and while the prophet Nathan at first says David should proceed, he then receives a word from the Lord that David should not do it. This is how the Lord begins that prophetic word ... pointing out that, throughout his time in the presence of Israel, he has never commanded anyone to build him a building.

Yes, even Moses declared via prophesy that someday the Lord would decide on a place to dwell. However, for hundreds of years now, the Lord has been content to have his footstool - in the form of the arc - reside in a tent, and even to have it moved about and kept in homes from time to time. While the Lord could command at any time for Israel to undertake to build him a grand temple, he never has. One possible reason could be that Israel itself was not ready for such an undertaking ... they required a worthy, fortified city, surrounded by a fully established nation occupying the entire land, governed by a true and worthy king, and thus far their tribal growth and unstable history hadn't afforded that.

However, another simple reason may also exist. The world belongs to Yahweh. While people may desire a place to honor and worship and celebrate the Lord, he himself does not require such a place because he should be honored and worshipped and celebrated ... everywhere. While golden walls with carved palm trees may be one way of representing heaven, in truth the beauty of all creation is the reflection of the Lord's heavenly realm. In short, he doesn't need a house of cedar because he has forests of cedar trees.

Application: As I have travelled (too much) over the last three weeks, I have seen and appreciated some very nice places. One aspect I don't remember often enough is that all of it - from the linksland of Scotland to farmland of California to woodlands right out my back window - is the Lord's true dwelling place. All the world, and all the strangers I see along the way, are his beloved creation.

I truly should celebrate the presence of the Lord everywhere, always. This is especially true when I am out experiencing his creation. My very perception of creation as 'beautiful' is evidence of the Lord, and the fact that what he created he imbued into the human heart to cherish and enjoy.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you now for the beauty I see every day. Even as I have enjoyed the last few weeks and the experiences I had, may I also remember that the places I enjoyed are your, created by you, as a gift of love to us. Creation is a reflection of heaven, and of your heart. I thank you and honor you. May my enjoyment of creation be an act of worship of you. Amen.

Reconciling Guilt and Favor

Scripture:
You, God, know my folly;
       my guilt is not hidden from you.
Psalm 69:5

Observation: In this psalm, David seeks the Lord's support. It seems clear that people are divided for and against David; In v4 David declares there are uncountable numbers opposed to him, and in v6 he hopes that those on his side are not put to shame because of him. (This may therefore have been written during the time of 2 Samuel 2-3 and the resolution of the kingship after Saul's death.)

Verse 5 is a revealing pivot-point. David is seeking protection from enemies, relief from hostilities against him, protection for allies, and resolution of his entire current situation. However, right in the middle, even standing alone as an independent stanza, is this statement ... David knows he is a sinful man, and he knows that God knows it.

David is not asking the Lord for favor or protection or success based on his merits. Sure, he is a man who worships the Lord daily, honors the Lord, strives to obey the commandments, and prays continually. However, he understands that none of that makes him 'good', and therefore he is not seeking success based on his goodness. He will even declare - in the middle of all his 'asks' - that he isn't good, and the Lord knows and sees his every folly and guilt.

Application: There are times I read the psalms and think "well, yes, the Lord helps David because look at how great his faith is, and how well he honors the Lord with prayer and worship, and sure he makes a mistake here and there but ... I'm nowhere near that good, so the Lord has no reason to help me."

Well here is another way that David is so very good ... he knows that the Lord's blessings have nothing to do with his goodness. In fact, he can simultaneously ask for the Lord's mercy and blessing, and confess his own folly and guilt, because he knows one is not dependent on the other. No one is so good as to deserve the Lord's blessings and intervention and assistance, and yet the Lord provides those things because HE is good and loves us.

In my heart, I know this. In my mind, I find it difficult to reconcile because I use human logic when considering worldly ideals like reasons to bestow favor, assistance, and kindness on others.

The Lord knows my folly. My guilt is not hidden from him. The same is true for my wife, my son and daughter, my friends, pastors, and neighbors. However, his blessings remain available when I and these others have faith in his love, and ask with a righteous heart.

Prayer: Lord, I say this prayer again today, please have favor on my son and his job search. You know his heart and his weaknesses, just as you know mine as I say this prayer. Please, Abba, give my son your favor this day. Amen.

Faith Far Beyond Forgiveness

Scripture:
Daughters of Israel,
weep for Saul,
who clothed you in scarlet and finery,
who adorned your garments with ornaments of gold.
2 Samuel 1:24

Observation; Saul has died in battle, and in response David writes a song honoring Saul. The song declares of his might and greatness as a warrior, but also honors him as a king. In the song, David declares that all Israel should weep and mourn for Saul, for he provided for them as the king. By his reign, the women of Israel had fineries alike scarlet clothes and gold jewelry.

David is saying this about a man who spent the last few years driving him out of Israel, pursuing him in an attempt to kill him over the jealousy he felt because the Lord had anointed David as the next king. In God's eyes, Saul failed as king, not obeying the instructions of the Lord. He then plotted to kill David, rejecting the Lord's plan of succession, taking away one of David's wives from him, ejecting him from the court, and even hunting him down in an attempt to kill him.

This is David's response ... unlimited praise for Saul as king, justice brought upon the man who killed Saul, and a song to honor Saul's memories, taught to the entire country and recorded in the annals forever.

This is one of the most amazing moments of faith one can possibly imagine. David has SO much faith in the Lord that he doesn't just forgive the actions of Saul against him, but he will declare greatness and honor upon Saul as if nothing he ever did to David even occurred. David knows the depravity and borderline madness of Saul; he knows Saul's downfall was caused by his own failures and anger and lack of obedience. David ignores all that ... Saul was God's anointed, and is to be honored only, his negative actions ignored. This isn't even about forgiveness, but just about David knowing the Lord has always been in control of both the good and bad of Saul, and choosing to call it all "good" because of that.

Application: With this example, I may better understand the Lord's forgiveness of my iniquities. Jesus is THE anointed one, and the perfect Messiah without blemish, so much better than Saul or David. When he interposes himself before me, the Lord certainly still knows of all my failures, however there just isn't any reason to acknowledge those failures, for Jesus' anointing - and my faith in Jesus that has brought that protection over my eternal soul - is all that need be discussed.

Even with that understanding, it is difficult to comprehend forgiveness of that magnitude. Therefore, David is an earthly example of that. He was wronged in ways far exceeding anything that has happened to me, and he didn't just forgive Saul, he honored him, even declaring that Saul was an instrument of the Lord. He goes so far as to ignore every wrong, and elevate every right, publicly and forever.

That is a level of faith beyond forgiveness. That is faith that says "I don't choose to forgive or to decide it was even good, because even though I don't understand how, I believe it was part of the Lord's plan."

Prayer: Lord, today I give you all concern I have for the direction of my life and of my family. I trust all of it, past, present, and future, is all not only in your hands, but part of your plan. I hope to see resolution of certain parts soon, but I trust in your plan. Please forgive my sins, and Jesus stands as my intercessor as a result of the fact I believe in him as my Lord and savior. May I simply follow your good plan. Amen.

The Lord is Not a Tool

Scripture: Then they sent messengers to the people of Kiriath Jearim, saying, “The Philistines have returned the ark of the Lord. Come down and take it up to your town.” So the men of Kiriath Jearim came and took up the ark of the Lord. They brought it to Abinadab’s house on the hill and consecrated Eleazar his son to guard the ark of the Lord. The ark remained at Kiriath Jearim a long time—twenty years in all. 1 Samuel 6:21-7:2a

Observation: It is only seven months since the ark was captured by the Philistines. They have returned it by way of heavenly-inspired cows pulling a cart, and the people of Beth Shemesh decide to send it to Kiriath Jearim, where it will now sit in one man's house for 20 years. This begs the question ... why not return it to the Tabernacle?

The Tent of Meeting - aka the Tabernacle - has been in Shiloh for centuries, with the ark inside and the alter still working, and it is the place where Israel comes for their sacrifices. The ark will now stay in this small village until David chooses to move it to Jerusalem. The basic reason is tied to the historical fact that the Philistines did in fact destroy Shiloh, and the Tabernacle and alter had been saved and moved to Gibeah. So why not take the ark to Gibeah? This has been answered by the Lord already ... the Lord already declared he has abandon the priestly line due to the sins of Eli and his sons. While someone will still administer sacrifices, the Lord will no longer abide with the priests and receive their sacrifices as he did before.

Therefore, the Lord manages the situation so that it is clear to Israel: Due to their collective sins in worshipping other gods, and their individual sins evident by the behavior of the priests, the Lord is separating himself from Israel, as physically represented by the separation of the ark from the Tabernacle.

Application: It is difficult to understand the presence of the Lord the way that Israel understood and experienced it. Today, we have the Holy Spirit in our lives, and I do experience periods of stronger and weaker connection with the Holy Spirit. However, that isn't the same as having a place where the Lord had been, watching a nation regularly come to him for prayer and celebration and feasting and repentance.

Israel turned the Lord's presence into a commodity and his seat into a weapon, so he withdrew. Do I ever turn the Lord's presence in my life into a commodity or tool? I seek guidance and strength and comfort from the Holy Spirit, but I hope I don't weaponize that or just use that ... I treat it as a relationship I depend upon in life. I feel weak when that connection is weak, and I feel strong with that connection is strong. However, I hope I do not then use that strength to attempt to achieve worldly goals.

Yahweh is my Lord and my God and my savior, who loves me enough to show me the proper path for my life. He is not a tool to be used to achieve my own path. May I always have His wisdom to help me discern the difference.

Prayer: Lord, I will be on a new physical path the next two weeks as I travel. May I personally and spiritually and mentally remain on your path, doing your will, obeying your commands, and seeking your purposes in my life. Amen.

Putting it All Together

Scripture: “Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.” Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” “Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.” John 11:21-27

Observation: Jesus is on a mission to raise Lazarus from death, though no one understands that yet. As he enters Bethany, this is the greeting he receives from Martha. Despite the fact her brother has died, it is a greeting of complete and total faith. While living through the worst disaster of her life - the death of the man who was the caretaker to her and her sister, both unmarried - she declares belief in Jesus' authority over life and health, her understanding and faith that Jesus has total authority over everything else on earth, her understanding of eternal life through faith in Messiah, and her total belief that Jesus is, in fact, the Messiah.

We have seen others "believe" in Jesus. They state a belief in his healing authority, or in his authority as a teacher. The disciples follow him in the belief he is Messiah and have so stated it. However, no one has gone as far as Martha. Martha effectively, over the course of about five sentences, declares the entire gospel message, perhaps summarized as well as any 'creed' the Church will later try to create to clarify Christian faith.

Martha says ... Jesus is the Messiah, the son of God. He has full authority over everything on earth and everything in heaven, and by faith in Jesus we will have everlasting life. She is the first to put it all together.

Application: The fact Martha's statement here doesn't get more attention in sermons and lessons is a little surprising, likely because it's overshadowed by what's about to happen next ... the greatest miracle of Jesus' ministry. However, like I said above, hundreds of years later the Church will summarize their core elements of faith - a statement today known as the Apostle's Creed - and the core of it is just what Martha said, elaborated by some of the elements of Jesus' ministry.

Martha and Mary appear multiple times in the gospels, and every time they are a lesson and example to me of how to both believe and respond to that belief. My life would be so much better if I tried to be like them.

Prayer: Lord, I think you for the lessons of Martha. May I always face every situation with the same faith she showed. Amen.

Simple Judgment without Discernment

Scripture: As she kept on praying to the Lord, Eli observed her mouth. Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. Eli thought she was drunk and said to her, “How long are you going to stay drunk? Put away your wine.” 1 Samuel 1:12-14

Observations: Eli is the Priest to Yahweh, serving at the amazing Tent of Meeting - which is now hundreds of years old - erected at Shilo. However, Eli doesn't do the work of the priest. As we learn, he has his two sons do all the priestly duties overseeing sacrifices, and they abuse their power. The two sons coerce the finest portion of the offering from those making sacrifices, threaten any who won't obey their orders, and even use the female assistants for sex. Eli knows of all of it and says so. As the actual Priest, Eli has all the authority and could put an end to the behavior immediately, but he does nothing to stop it.

Meanwhile, Eli sees a woman praying. Hannah is from a devout family, the wife of a Levite who makes all the annual pilgrimages and all the sacrifices, who honors the Lord and loves his family. Hannah is distraught, and has been verbally and publicly taunted by her husband's other wife while they have eaten their sacrifice. Now, she prayer fervently from her heart, the words pouring out to the Lord for her heart's desire of a son, and ... Eli berates her for being a drunkard.

Eli is clearly focused on the wrong behaviors in need of correction. He won't discipline his sons who are becoming a scourge to all of Israel and are actively offensive to Yahweh, yet he will correct a woman who is praying because he assumes she is drunk (which isn't necessarily an offense either). Eli knows of, yet ignores, the terrible acts of his sons, however he sits in a chair seeking out tiny improprieties in others - just assuming the worst in everyone as he does - and quickly and publicly pronounces correction upon them.

Here's the real issue. Eli should be the man in all of Israel with the most authority, and whose actions direct all honor to Yahweh. Instead, he is a side-character in the story of a prophet, best known for failing to correct his sons. His failure begins to turn the hearts of the people against the sacrifices to Yahweh, for they detest and even fear going through the ritual due to Eli's family. Serving the Lord becomes traumatic. All the while, Eli nit-picks the "regular" people, but won't take the actions necessary to truly bring honor to God.

Application: I no longer like the idea of 'fighting' about issues, problems, or work. I used to, but no more. However, I see a trap in this mindset, too, and perhaps it is the trap Eli warns of.

The trap I am thinking of is the idea that there are small matters that I can judge and then "fight" because they are easy enough to address without bothering God. Eli knew fighting his sons would be hard and involve major assistance from God, but he believed that judging a muttering woman and giving her two sentences of correction was an easy matter ... no need to discern the will of God there!

I fall into this trap when I pass simple and obvious judgments in my mind on others. When I think someone is stupid because of how they drive, or that someone is mean for ignoring politeness, or someone is inconsiderate because they are loud in a quiet public space. I judge, and furthermore don't need God's wisdom to help me judge the obvious truth.

This is another way to consider how to break my cycle of judgment ... if I never assume that judgments are 'simple' or 'obvious'. If I look at everyone and ask, "Lord, what is this person's issue?" he may reveal to me that they have hardship, challenges, or struggles worthy of kindness and patience.

Prayer: Lord, may I remember Eli's interaction with Hannah when I grow frustrated with people in simple and obvious circumstances. I do not want to be quick to judge. Amen.

Being Okay in the Confusing Parts

Scripture: Israel, apart from Benjamin, mustered four hundred thousand swordsmen, all of them fit for battle. The Israelites went up to Bethel and inquired of God. They said, “Who of us is to go up first to fight against the Benjamites?” The Lord replied, “Judah shall go first.” Judges 20:17-18

Observation: In this dark time, the rest of Israel has gathered to punish the tribe of Benjamin for their great sin. Benjamin rallies 26,000 soldiers, but Israel has 400,000. It is a 15:1 ratio, a numerical advantage so great that military leaders don't even discuss strategy and tactics in such situations because it's pointless

However, Israel then does what they always do ... they divide and send only one tribe, approximately 10 percent. Over the next two days, Benjamin kills them all - 40,000 over two days. So the question is, why does Israel regularly divide its armies and fight as tribes? There is no military logic to it, but perhaps there is logic in the context of scripture.

Judah was the one who swore to care for Benjamin when the brothers went to Egypt. In addition, when the kingdom divides after Solomon's rule, Judah and Benjamin will unify as the southern kingdom. There is one piece of logic here, which is that Judah could not be a party in the destruction of Benjamin. Even though they fought, Judah was removed from the battle after the first two days and thus did not participate in destroying Benjamin.

Application: The patterns in the bible are confusing sometimes. The above conclusion is just a blind guess, and while I could pull out my ol' English Lit skills and write a few thousand words to build the logical case and justify this conclusion, the truth is I have no idea if it's right. I am sure some other scholars have studied this and do have an idea, but even those may only be (highly educated) guesses, too.

Yes, the patterns are confusing, and often the logic is hidden. That is just the way of it. Faith and obedience to the Lord means acting on instructions when the reason is unknown.

Prayer: Lord, I say the patterns in the bible are confusing, but the patterns in our lives are just as confusing. I want to continue to learn how to be okay in the confusing parts of life. When I don't understand what you're doing in my life, I want to receive that as a positive sign, because it means you're in control, not me. Amen.

Flowers Grow in the Valley

I was looking for an upbeat song today ... and then this one just hit me. Dear Lord, I so hope this applies to my son today. Please.

It has Always Been this Way

Scripture: Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who was one of their own number, asked, “Does our law condemn a man without first hearing him to find out what he has been doing?” They replied, “Are you from Galilee, too? Look into it, and you will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee.” John 7:50-52

Observation: The pharisees continue to investigate Jesus, and are now casting dispersions on all who listen to him. They insult the guards who were sent to arrest him for being deceived, and they insult all the people who listen to him as being ignorant. They declare that none of them believe Jesus ... effectively stating that no intelligent, educated person with common sense believers what Jesus is teaching. We immediately see that isn't true, however, as the next person to speak is Nicodemus, a pharisee who has met with Jesus, is open to Jesus' teaching, and we know will become a believer if he isn't already.

Nicodemus doesn't disagree with the pharisees, but rather questions their methods, asking if their logic is aligned with scripture. The response is telling as ... they ignore the question, insult Nicodemus, and introduce logic that has absolutely nothing to do with the question or the truth (and is, in fact, inaccurate; Jonah was from Galilee).

In summary, the tools the pharisees use to argue against Jesus are:

-- Declarations of their own interpretation of common sense

-- Broad and inaccurate generalities about themselves

-- Insults against anyone who disagrees

-- Completely and provably wrong facts

The tool the pharisees reject and refuse to use when discussing Jesus is:

-- The known word and wisdom of the Lord

Application: I continue to wonder at the social issues of our day, and see this pattern over and over. Was this always human nature? Was this always the way humans work? Have we always, for centuries - millennia - chosen to ignorantly declare our 'common sense truth', while rejecting the Lord's teaching and insulting anyone who actually mentions the Lord as a possible source of truth?

Um ... yes.

The other day my wife and I discussed how exhausted we are just living in this part of the world, where every hour of every day is comprised of the echoes of this exact scenario. So many people just shout in anger to declare 'common sense' that is inaccurate and provably wrong, all laced with vitriolic insults toward anyone who would dare disagree, and actively rejecting the actual truth of God. It is everywhere here ... posted on walls in public venues, on local television, in conversations at restaurants, mentioned in business meetings.

It makes me wonder how Nicodemus reacted to this conversation. A learned peer, they insulted him to his face and hand-waved away his simple statement that - perhaps - they should consider the Lord's wisdom. He certainly felt insulted, angry, rejected, ignored, belittled, judged, isolated, and wearied. This is what we feel every day in almost every setting. However, Nicodemus also must have felt ... right, for he stayed with his path.

So yes, for Christians and all those who believe in Yahweh, it has always been this way. I don't know how much longer we can sustain it, though, in a place with such acute hatred.

Prayer: Lord, again today I say, may I look to you alone for my direction and walk. In everything, may I bring my work and thoughts to you for instruction. I believe in you, Jesus, and trust in the Lord. May my work be to your glory, despite the exhaustion and frustration of this time and place. Amen.

Recognizing God Right in Front of Me

Scripture: Then Manoah inquired of the angel of the Lord, "What is your name, so that we may honor you when your word comes true?" He replied, "Why do you ask my name? It is beyond understanding." Judges 13:17-18

Observation: An angel has decreed the birth of Samson to his parents. Samson's father Manoah is struggling to understand the nature of this individual. He first offers the angel food, and the angel responds that he won't eat and instead they should make a burnt offering to the Lord. He then asks his name and receives this reply.

This exchange reveals an aspect of Manoah's character that could be perceived either positively or negatively. From a positive interpretation, Manoah is attempting to understand and honor the Lord. He is curious about the Lord's message and messenger, first desiring to honor him, and then at least hoping to know his name so he can speak well of him in the future. From a negative interpretation, Manoah is questioning the activities taking place. He isn't trusting that this is a heavenly messenger, and is probing deeper, wanting to talk more, to validate authenticity, and it isn't until the angel is taken up into heaven that he believes him to be the angel of God.

Either of these perspectives could be true. In fact, both could be true. Manoah may be demonstrating partial faith ... he may be indicating that he believes in the general truth and accuracy of the message as if it were spirit-inspired prophesy, but he doubts the direct connection between this individual and Yahweh and therefore seeks a deeper understanding of the true nature of this individual.

The Jews knew that the Angel of the Lord could appear to individuals, as it had for Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and Joshua. However, they also were more comfortable with the idea that prophets received true words from the Lord, as happened more regularly and included the decisions of the judges and priests. Perhaps Manoah struggled to accept this was "the" angel of God because he felt himself unworthy, not in league with the great leaders and patriarchs of Israel. Perhaps he didn't think God really appeared as an angel anymore, as those were unique situations from hundreds of years ago.

Either way, Manoah's faith seems to have had a limit ... he could believe that a message was true and revealed the instructions of the Lord, but not that the Lord himself took time to visit people, personally comfort and instruct, and provide such messages directly.

Application: I struggle with believing the Lord would appear to me or interact with me directly. I know his Holy Spirit is a part of him, and therefore I interact with the Lord, in some manner, daily. I receive his guidance and love and hope and instructions and wisdom. However, the idea that Yahweh - in the form of Jesus, the Angel of the Lord - would appear to give me instructions or comfort or wisdom ... I struggle with that, knowing I am not worthy. Of the billions on earth, I'm less worthy than non-believers who really need such a revelation, and less worthy than believers who embrace their faith with a boldness that fills their lives.

I certainly associate with Manoah here, a man talking to the Angel of the Lord, believing the words, but trying to rationalize the "who" of the actual messenger. I know the word of God, but perhaps I don't know the Lord well enough to recognize him when he's standing right in front of me.

Prayer: Abba, my daddy and father in heaven, great Yahweh, whose name is wonderous beyond my understanding, I would actually like to know you better. I believe, but I know I keep you at arm's length. You know I keep everyone at arm's length. I don't know why this fear of being known is a part of the world I have held so close that I cannot even fathom a way to release it. However, I want to know you. I want to know you so well that I would recognize you walking down the street, greeting you like my most cherished friend. May my life continue to evolve in a way that would make that possible someday. Amen.

Blessing Should Change Me

Scripture: The Israelites said to Gideon, “Rule over us—you, your son and your grandson—because you have saved us from the hand of Midian.” But Gideon told them, “I will not rule over you, nor will my son rule over you. The Lord will rule over you.” Judges 8:22-23

Observation: The story arc of Gideon - both individually and that of Israel surrounding him - is quite the study. Gideon begins as an unknown and fearful man in hiding, rejecting even the idea that the Lord would call him to leadership. After defeating the Midianites, he punishes disrespectful city leaders, challenges commentary from other tribes, and passes execution on foreign kings. While he rejects the call to become king if Israel, he leans into the honors and power of being the chief 'judge' to the point that he fathers 70 sons by many wives and concubines.

Meanwhile, Israel had been oppressed by the Midianites due to their worship of false gods. Upon being liberated by Gideon's leadership, they immediately call on Gideon to be king (a sign of explicitly not returning to Yahweh as their Lord). They begin worshipping a gold ephod that Gideon made, turning it into an idol. They soon resume worshipping the baals. Upon Gideon's death, one of his sons will attempt to exalt himself as king, and many will follow him.

It is as if, everything the Lord did to aid Israel and lead them into repentance for their sins, they turned into a launch pad for perpetuating sin, even leveraging some of the outcomes of their 'salvation' into a new type of idolatry, a new way to reject the Lord, and a new model for prideful self-rule.

Application: There is a lesson for all of us, myself included, about what we do after the Lord has redeemed and restored us, or given us blessings. When we are thankful and acknowledge the Lord, but then go about our lives in the days to come as if nothing happened ... or even using the blessings we received for our selfish lives ... we are just like Israel and Gideon.

When the Lord blesses me, it should change my life in a way that draws me closer to him. I should respond to blessing with not just short-term thanks and worship, but with a renewed alignment of my daily walk that reflects his path for me, not my path, and certainly not the world's path. Blessing should change me on the inside, with my outward actions then reinforcing that change.

Despite life's hardships, I am overwhelmingly blessed. I need to give more of the blessing back into the kingdom, in the form of what I do and how I think on a daily basis.

Prayer: Lord, you are my portion in life, and I am very, very aware that all I have is from you. May my life become a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to you. I will try to align my thoughts to your thoughts, and my ways to your ways, all the more. I will not bargain and ask for something specific that I may then respond to, for you have already given me more than I could ever repay. Amen.

Prepared by the First Task

Scripture: That same night the Lord said to him, "Take the second bull from your father’s herd, the one seven years old. Tear down your father’s altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it." Judges 6:25

Observation: The Lord has appeared to Gideon and given him instructions to lead Israel against the Midianites. However, his first task isn't to call an army, or announce his intentions, or to rally a small group of supporters. Instead, his first task is to turn his entire hometown against himself by tearing down the items of worship to other gods.

Gideon is a hesitant leader. He already doubted why the Lord would call him, the least member of the least family of the least clan. He required a sign to prove that the angel of the Lord was really speaking to him, and will do so again before he fully engages. Therefore, the fact that the first task is to tear down the alter and idols likely has four purposes.

First, this task is physically doable. Gideon is afraid of others so he does it at night, but the point is he does it knowing people will react in the morning. He has to do three things, and Gideon is able to do all three in the course of that night, and do them exactly as the Lord prescribes. For a man who is fearful and worried that he just spoke to the angel of the Lord face-to-face, this is a 'quick win' and early taste of success.

Second, this act calls into sharp relief exactly how far Israel has fallen and thus is in need of a judge. The people are actively worshipping the fertility goddess and the false gods of Canaan. They respond with anger when the items of these false gods are removed and replaced with an alter to Yahweh. By this, it is made even clearer to Gideon that the people of Israel are on the wrong path, as they aren't just worshiping false gods in addition to Yahweh, but have swung into a mindset of elevating those false gods above Yahweh.

Third, the fact that even in their anger the entire village is dissuaded from attacking Gideon would give him courage that his actions were supported by the Lord. They do respond with anger, but are persuaded that, if Gideon has acted against baal, and if baal is real, then baal should have the ability to strike Gideon down. In this manner, Gideon is protected from retribution, and thus gains confidence that his task and mission is truly from the Lord.

Fourth, Gideon receives a new name, Jerub-Baal, which means 'let baal contend with him'. Names - and especially adults who receive a new name - give strong identity to Jews. Gideon now knows that Yahweh himself has spoken to him, has given him instructions, and is protecting him. He also knows baal is a false god who doesn't exist. By giving him a name that such a false and powerless god is the one who will 'deal with' Gideon, he must feel invulnerable. Imagine if everyone said the only being that could harm you is non-existent, and meanwhile the being that protects you is the almighty creator of the universe!

Gideon will now go fight an entire nation with only 300 men. His courage and journey to do so began when he simply obeyed the Lord and dealt with the root-cause issue in his own family, and succeeding at that task equipped him for the rest of his work.

Application: I don't know what large mission I have in my future, and therefore I don't really know on a daily basis what small task I should be doing to prepare my heart. I do know this ... all the stuff my family and I are currently going through - big and small - boils down to a test of faith and prayer. I have been praying more, especially in small bursts, though also mostly in the form of questions. In those questions, I have faith there is an answer even when I don't know it.

Are there baal alters and ashera poles I need to destroy ... small tasks the Lord wants me to do to prepare my heart for other activities? Probably. Certainly some basic faith around career is part of that.

Prayer: Lord, you know the challenges that lie before my family, from physical ailments to significant career instability to daily work issues. I look to you, knowing that the one God and creator of the universe is here with me, and so none of these issues can really contend with and destroy me. May your hand be upon me and my family, today and every day. Amen.

Yes, This Is a Test

Scripture: “Unless you people see signs and wonders,” Jesus told him, “you will never believe.” The royal official said, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” “Go,” Jesus replied, “your son will live.” The man took Jesus at his word and departed. While he was still on the way, his servants met him with the news that his boy was living. John 4:48-51

Observation: When this rich man - a "royal official" perhaps indicating he is a member of King Herod's inner circle - hears of Jesus, he goes to Jesus and asks for his son to be miraculously healed. What Jesus does next is more than a healing ... it is a test. He first challenges the very idea that the primary reason people come to see him is not out of faith, but out of need. Therefore, he tests the man's faith, pronouncing the son is now healed without going to him (in fact, while being dozens of miles away, for it is at least a two day journey for the man to return home). And, at Jesus' pronouncement the official ... "took Jesus at his word and departed." In other words, he had faith and believed, and his son was healed.

Application: I do believe the Lord tests us. These are not tests to be cruel, nor are they tests to punish us if we fail. However, they are tests to see if our hearts are prepared for something more, and if by engaging in the tests our faith can grow into a closer relationship with Jesus.

In the case of this royal official, the test is pretty straightforward. Jesus effectively says, 'you think you have faith that I can heal, then show me if have faith that I can heal by my word and not just my touch'. The man does.

I have been tested by the Lord, and sometimes I pass and sometimes I don't. I do know how I have grown from the tests, and that is key. The tests aren't about passing, they are about developing my testimony and my faith so I can better serve the Lord and tell others about Jesus in my life. Sometimes, I feel I have wasted the tests by not using what I have learned to its full potential.

I do think our family is in the midst of several tests right now. Some are subtle but involve almost continual reliance on the Lord, perhaps intended to adjust our hearts. Some are huge and difficult, likely producing an overhaul in our faith and relationship with Jesus. I trust the outcomes will be good, as they always are.

Prayer: Lord, I lean in today to the test before me. May I continue to seek you in the current circumstances, and in so doing find how you are adjusting my heart and my faith to your purposes. Amen.

Just Given by a Father

Scripture: So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. John 4:5

Observation: This chapter is about Jesus meeting the Samaritan woman at the well. However, there is something interesting going on in this verse about its description as the ground Jacob gave to Joseph.

From Genesis 33, we know this land is actually the first "livable" land that the Jews owned in Canaan. Abraham bought a cave with a field near Hebron, but never lived there (it was used for burial). Jacob bought this land and lived on it. There were significant events that occurred here (that aren't relevant here). However, while it makes sense that Jacob would need to dig a well in the place he was living for an extended period, nowhere in that Genesis narrative is there mention of him bequeathing this land - the only land he owns - to his 11th born son Joseph.

Furthermore, this location is between Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal, the mountains where - upon crossing the Jordan - Joshua split the tribes and had them shout blessings and curses from the mountaintops. Those pronouncements poured down upon this exact spot. Again, this is a special location, and again that information isn't stated here, but instead what is stated is something not found in the scriptures.

It seems like tying this event to important scriptural facts would make sense. However, considering that raises some interesting thoughts. One is that ... Matthew, who was present at this event just like John was, doesn't even mention this at all, and his gospel focuses on tying Jesus to Jewish scripture. If anyone was going to point out that Jesus first told someone he was Messiah at the only piece of land Jacob ever owned, it would be Matthew.

Application: John chose to describe this location through an undocumented fact instead of making the scriptural references, and the reason may have to do with the very nature of the "new covenant" that God makes through Messiah. Jesus is a new promise of salvation to all people, not the old Abrahamic promise of blessing upon the Jews. The prior events here are directly associated with the 'promised land' element of the old covenant. There is no need to harken back to that promise, as Jesus is actively declaring for the first time that the new promise is here. Jesus says as much, when he says it doesn't matter where the Samaritans and Jews think they should worship - on Mount Gerizim or in Jerusalem - for instead they will worship in spirit and truth, within the new covenant of faith in the Messiah.

The old promise of God was one of works and worldly rewards. The gospel message is the promise of heavenly salvation through faith. Therefore, as Jesus declares himself as Messiah to a Samaritan woman, there is no need to recount how Israel (the man and the nation) received the land. The fact that some things are just "given" by a father is the better context for such an event.

Prayer: Lord, you know the challenges my family has now days. The challenges are quiet and nowhere near the terrible issues others face, but they drag upon us. Today, may you just give to us as our father, and may we live in your promise of salvation by faith. We don't need stuff other than your love and the hope we have in Jesus. Amen.

Surrendering to the Ending

Scripture: "This is the one I meant when I said, ‘A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’ I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel." Then John gave this testimony: "I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen and I testify that this is God’s Chosen One." John 1:30-34

Observation: John the Baptist has baptized Jesus and knows Jesus is the Messiah. This has been reenforced in several ways, and at this time John calls this out in new and definitive ways. He saw Jesus anointed by the Holy Spirit. He heard the declaration of Yahweh that Jesus was his son. Now, John admits that it was foretold to him that the one to whom these things happen is the Messiah. Furthermore, he makes another admission ... the entire reason he has been in the wilderness baptizing people with water was to prepare the people for Messiah and create the path to reveal him to Israel.

In other words, John actually knew who he was. He KNEW he was the prophet in the wilderness, foretold by Isaiah, whose mission was to prepare Israel for the Messiah's arrival, and that Jesus' emergence means his mission - and prominence and popularity - is over.

What happens next is that, for all intents and purposes, John's core disciples leave him to follow Jesus, and John's ministry ends, culminating with him opposing Herod to the point Harod arrests and kills him.

This is an amazing model of faith. John structured his entire life around his ministry, which included living 'rough' in the wild, doing nothing but serving others by baptizing and teaching them about repentance, all so one day that entire ministry could be taken away from him by the person he knew was his superior. Knowing the ending, John was faithful in everything else leading up to it, surrendered his life to the mission, and even celebrated the transition. He cared only for the mission, and not for the popularity and recognition and authority that his mission garnered him.

Application: I have seen modern-day men of God whose 'platform' is removed suddenly. Though it is usually done due to some fall or act, it is always hard to see. One of the ways I recognize that such people remain faithful to the Lord is that they don't publicly fight or rage at their lost status, but they surrender to it and trust the Lord's overall plan.

I can imagine the temptation of pride and power John felt when he knew, for certain, he was not only a prophet but a famous prophet, foretold by one of the most famous former prophets, commissioned to usher in the Messiah. Yet he remained so humble that he pushed his closest followers out of the metaphorical nest, to leave him and follow Jesus. Andrew, John, and Philip - and thus by extension Peter, James, and Nathanial ... men so strong Jesus would commission them to found Christianity itself - John effectively told "there he is, quit sitting here listening to me, go with him".

Truly faithful followers surrender to the mission, but they also surrender to the ending. They aren't in it to speak or lead others or even to just 'baptize and teach', but they are in it to be abused by non-believers, criticized as ignorant, fired from jobs, hated by entire factions of people, disowned by family and friends, and sometimes executed. That part of the call is real, too.

My experiences in this area have been real, but mild compared to others. May I retain my heart to surrender to the ending - the bad times - as much as the good.

Prayer: Lord, I see hard times around me. I'm not in a terrible place, but struggling. I see my son in a terrible place. I live in a time and place where many believers have degrees of hardship all over the world. Please, give us all the strength, courage, wisdom, and hope we need to surrender to whatever outcomes lie ahead. Amen.

Lamenting Those who Dread

Scripture:
But there they are, overwhelmed with dread,
where there was nothing to dread.
God scattered the bones of those who attacked you;
you put them to shame, for God despised them.
Psalm 53:5

Observation: This psalm speaks about those who do not believe in Yahweh. It opens with that ... "The fool says in his heart 'there is no God'" and proceeds from there to describe the behavior of such individuals. They are corrupt, their ways are vile, they never do good, but they devour people and never call on God. Meanwhile, the Lord looks down from heaven, seeking those who may know him and understand his instruction and ways, and finds none.

It is in this verse 5 where the internal outcome of rejecting the Lord is discussed. Such people are overwhelmed with dread, and the worst part about such an overwhelmed life is that there is actually nothing to dread. That's the ultimate irony. When people reject the Lord and ignore his laws and precepts and guidance and love, they now exist in a mindset - if not an actual place - where they live in fear. They spend all their time pursuing riches, pleasure, happiness, justification, and popularity, which results in a mindset where they are always fearing loss, violence, hardship, conflict, and death. They reject the Lord, and their lives become overwhelmed by anxiety and fear.

Application: This exact issue has been raised to me twice recently through 'pop culture' types of avenues. In the first, I was listening to an old favorite song of mine by Rush, and reminded of the line "they shout about love, but when push comes to shove, they live for things they're afraid of." In the second, a Youtuber who does one-man comedy skits portrayed a conversation between a person who never watches the news and one who obsesses over the news and overactions to it on social media ... the first is happy with life, filled with joy even by little things like finding a stick, and delighted by the weather on this perfect day, while the second is overcome by stress to the point of having physical ailments, is mentally exhausted, and declared it was a 'civic duty' to worry about all kinds of major issues that have nothing to do with you or your life.

The Lord warned us. Those who reject the Lord live in a life of perpetual stress and fear. They focus on evil and negative issues, partly because they have rejected paying attention to the good that is the Lord and his creation, and partly because others who likewise reject good now cause evil. They restructure their lives around what they're afraid of ... paying attention to it, worrying about it, protesting it, avoiding it ... and those negative fear-filled aspects of the world become their focus, their 'center', the cause they live for.

What a sad, sad life.

Prayer: Lord, I lament the struggles, fear, and dread of those who have rejected you. I desire to offer them hope, the hope that is found in you. May I specifically, and your Church in general, have opportunities today and every day to introduce hope, peace, and love, through the good news of Jesus, back into the hearts of those experiencing dread because they have rejected you. Amen.

God's Word is Always True

Scripture: This is the land that remains: all the regions of the Philistines and Geshurites, from the Shihor River on the east of Egypt to the territory of Ekron on the north, all of it counted as Canaanite though held by the five Philistine rulers in Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath and Ekron. Joshua 13:2-3a

Observation: Under Joshua, Israel has taken as much of the land as they can currently populate. The Lord told Moses - who told the people - they could not take it all at once, but needed to 'grow' into it so that wild animals wouldn't overwhelm them. They are about to rest from war, but the Lord gives Joshua information about the places that need to be taken next, and he begins with ... the Gaza strip.

Application: I have already discussed this several times, but once again it seems to jump off the page ... the decision for Israel to not dispel the Philistines 3,500 years ago remains one of the biggest problems in the world today. This area not only causes war locally in the middle east, but becomes a divisive flashpoint for conversations ranging from terrorism, to war atrocities, to humanitarian needs. It is a place where those who hate Jews point to it and claim Israel is a nation of violent monsters, and those who love Jews point to it and claim it homes violent monsters fanatically devoted to the extermination of Israel.

However, instead of lamenting the situation - either in the day of Joshua or now - I will instead rejoice in the Lord and in the truth of his word. Once again, the bible proves itself. Millenia before there was anyone calling themselves Palestinians, and before the modern nation of Israel existed, God declared in writing that this tiny area was at the heart of future tensions. He very, very obviously told all mankind to pay attention, and that the conflicts that would arise here were important.

Yes, the fact Israel did not address Gaza was and is an issue. However, the fact the Lord prophesized about the importance of Gaza is loud-and-clear proof of the accuracy of scripture. The word of the Lord is true and can be relied upon for instruction.

Prayer: Lord, may I continue every day to read your word with a heart to follow its instructions, open to your powerful truth. Amen.

Comparison Distracts from What's Important

Scripture: They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this. A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. Luke 22:23-24

Observation: During the last supper, Jesus has just made a shocking declaration ... someone there at this very table, sharing this meal, will betray him. The disciples then have two back-to-back conversations, and given the fact they are presented as such they seem related.

They begin by talking about the bombshell Jesus just dropped, wondering which of them would - or even could - do such a thing as betray Jesus. However, this seemingly pivots rapidly into an even more energetic debate about which of them is actually the greatest - likely most loyal and most faithful - disciple. Jesus' response to all of this (v25-32) actually addresses both topics in reverse order. He first teaches that true greatness is found in serving, and while they will all have positions of leadership, they must also serve others as he has served others. He then pivots to Peter, stating he has prayed for him, about how he will deny Jesus tonight (not betray, but certainly not remaining strong).

In effectively addressing both topics, Jesus shows that both were part of a single conversation. In other words, after Jesus makes a terrible declaration, the disciples quickly devolve in their thinking. Effectively, their conversation is 'Well I wouldn't betray Jesus because I have more faith than anyone!' They fly past the important part and turn it into a personal declaration of their own position in some kingdom hierarchy, and immediately that becomes a "dispute" between people who are supposed to love one another.

Application: This sums up church life in a nutshell, doesn't it. We have kingdom work to do. We receive instructions from God. We know that the world will fight and reject us and bring hardships upon us as both individuals and as a group. And we respond by ... humblebragging about our prayer and devotional life, telling each other of revelations our superior faith has discerned, and daring to instruct and correct others because we have spent time studying all kinds of Christian self-help books and videos.

In all of this, what we are really supposed to be doing is loving one another, serving each other when hard times come, and taking that heart of love and service into the world so others may learn the good news of Jesus.

If it sounds like I'm complaining about the Church and Christians ... well, I am a little, I guess. However, this is clearly a human condition, as even the disciples themselves fell into this during their most important time with Jesus. It is easy for us to fall into a trap of comparison as a form of justification. Even non-Christians do this in evaluating whether or not they are 'good', and people do this in almost every aspect of life far beyond topic pertain to faith and morals. Figuring out where we all stand on a continuum of bad-to-good, weak-to-strong, dumb-to-smart ... this is effectively how humans interact by default.

The lesson today is that, when I adopt this default mindset, I get distracted from the important topics and issues and work and mission. Comparison and judgment take my mind away from serving and loving. Pursuing superiority along the continuum hinders my ability to present the gospel. And given the fact that, like Peter, I'm really never all that great anyway, it would be better to just do the kingdom work without comparison.

Prayer: Lord, it is so easy to say things like, I know I'm not perfect, but I'm better than others. Thank you for today's lesson, that that mindset is beyond worthless. It is counterproductive in your kingdom. Today, please show me how I may serve others in your name. Amen.

Pursuing the Plan, Not the Blessing

Scripture: Then the two men started back. They went down out of the hills, forded the river and came to Joshua son of Nun and told him everything that had happened to them. They said to Joshua, "The Lord has surely given the whole land into our hands; all the people are melting in fear because of us." Joshua 2:23-24

Observation: These two spies (unnamed) go to "look over the land" and especially Jericho. They hide with Rahab and promise her safety, as she also tells them that everyone is afraid of the Israelites. The people of Canaan have heard of everything that has happened over 40 years, from the parting of the Red Sea to the recent defeat of the Amorites. Therefore, when the spies report back, they make this statement, that the Lord has absolutely given Canaan to them, and even the people there are afraid.

This is SO different than the first attempt to enter the land. Those spies (12 of them, named, of which 10 gave the majority report) were fearful of the people of Canaan, even inventing stories about giants in the land. They brought back evidence of abundance ... rivers, olive trees, and fruit so abundant they had to build contraptions to help carry it back. However, they looked upon people and were afraid of them, declaring they could not succeed. This time, the spies ignore the abundant land, go to a majorly fortified city, meet the people, and report that ... yea, this will be easy, the Lord has already made them melt with fear.

There are likely two key differences. One is faith in Yahweh. Though the original generation had seen the parting of the sea, and had met the Lord at Mount Sinai, they still looked at 'invading' Canaan as something they had to do. This generation now knows the Lord is in control and is giving them this land, as they have spent decades in his care. The second difference is the focus of the investigation. The first group coveted the blessing, focusing on what they would receive and then how risky it might be to claim it. The second group pursued the Lord's plan, focusing on forcing idol-worshipping people out of the cities and breaking down their false temples. It didn't become a risk/reward mindset, but rather a purpose-driven mindset.

Application: I do see this kind of maturity progression in believers today. Some first believe in Jesus because they understand they need forgiveness, want God's joy-filled love, and desire eternity in heaven. That's great! But that also creates a shallow relationship, until they begin to pursue God's purposes in their lives, seek obedience to the teachings of scripture, and live into the great commission. That level of relationship is what really changes their life.

I say this, but the truth is I have a lot of maturing to do. I still often think about what I 'get' from my faith, and fail to live a mature, obedient life. I would do better to really be in relationship with God, and thus seek his will - and his approval - every day. "Approval" isn't the goal, but relationship is.

The fact is, I have a purpose in life, and I feel like I'm not pursuing it right now. I'm not even sure what my purpose is, and maybe it's the work I'm doing, but I doubt it.

Prayer: Lord, I believe you still have kingdom work for me to do. Please, may I be worthy again to receive your call into your plan. Amen.

Reverberations from Disobedience

Scripture: About Dan he said:
“Dan is a lion’s cub,
springing out of Bashan.”
Deuteronomy 33:22

Observation: Just before he dies, Moses makes a statement about most of the tribes. Some are long and some are short, and Dan's is very short, and simply makes this description of Dan being a lion cub in Bashan.

The oddity here is that ... Dan's inherited land is nowhere near Bashan. Dan will receive its allotment in the southwest of the promised land, along the Mediterranean near what it today called the Gaza Strip. Bashan is actually northeast of the promised land, an area north of the Sea of Galilee and extending east along the top of what is already Menasseh's trans-Jordan territory.

However, once again, we see the prophesy, as actually Dan WILL move themselves to that region, as we read very far in the future in the book of Judges. They reject the territory given them by the Lord, take a small piece of land about as far away as possible, and commit terrible acts of idolatry as they do so. It is presumed it is for these reasons that, when the tribes are called together as a remnant at the end times in Revelation, Dan is not included.

Application: I remain fascinated by, of all things, the long-term implications of the behavior of the tribe of Dan. This is documented by many smarter than me, but effectively ... Dan refused to stake their claim that the Lord gave them, leaving a place where the Philistines could establish themselves in Canaan. These foreigners became the greatest foreign problem throughout the time of the judges, were a key reason the people wanted a king like Saul, and continued to contend with Israel for centuries. Even today, it is the place where Palestinian terrorists strike against Israel.

Dan refused to obey the Lord, and for 3,000 years that remains a problem.

Prayer: Lord, there are times on a daily basis that I do not obey you. Certainly I am not as bad as fully rejecting your word and promise, but I willfully sin and disobey your instructions. I see how such behavior, even when forgiven, can leave lasting damage. Please do forgive my sins. Also, please never lose patience with me, but continue to show me your will for my life and for my daily actions. I desire to obey. Amen.

Earthly Authority is an Earthly Construct

Scripture: One day as Jesus was teaching the people in the temple courts and proclaiming the good news, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, together with the elders, came up to him. “Tell us by what authority you are doing these things,” they said. “Who gave you this authority?” He replied, “I will also ask you a question. Tell me: John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin?” Luke 20:1-4

Observation: In this famous exchange, as the Pharisees and priests look to challenge Jesus, they ask about his authority to teach and lead in the temple. He turns the table and asks them to explain John the Baptist's authority, and they refuse to answer because if they say 'heaven' he can question them as to why they didn't believe, but if they say 'human' the people will be angry.

This is actually the same question they are asking Jesus. By Jewish tradition, Rabis were trained by an elder, who then effectively 'certified' their knowledge and understanding. They are asking Jesus whom his master teacher was, likely knowing he had none. The trap will be, if he names someone they can dispute it, and if he claims heavenly authority they can demonstrate that as false, declare he has no training, and perhaps accuse him of blasphemy.

Interestingly, when Jesus flips this, he really is giving them the same two choices, and that - the two choices - is the real trap. For the priests and Pharisees, there are other possible answers ... such as the people themselves gave John authority by their response ... or even just defining a difference between one who gives hope through baptism in the wilderness versus one who teaches in the temple. However, they couldn't think that way; They were locked into a mindset that says authority comes from either earthly structures supported by policies and procedures, or some grand heavenly miracle that is obvious and impossible to contend.

Yes, the Lord can work that way, as when he parted the Red Sea in a manner visible to millions. However, even that is short-lived in the minds of those who witness it. More often he works through empowering individuals with his Holy Spirit in a way that their small actions change the lives of millions ... like emboldening Gideon's courage to lead, or positioning Ester as queen, or guiding Jacob in the ways of sheep rearing, or revealing to Daniel a king's dream, or giving Bezalel amazing crafting skills.

The real issue is that the priests are seeking to challenge Jesus' earthly authority to teach. However, earthly authority is always an earthly construct. What they should have been wondering about is the source of Jesus' wisdom.

Application: I don't want to make this political, though the implications are too obvious. Instead, keeping it neutral, my takeaway today re-enforces something the Lord showed to me about two weeks ago. Authority - especially the authority of a worldly leader to influence an individual's mindset in both negative and positive ways - is a power completely granted by the individual. Earthly authority granted to a person an earthly construct created by people.

I recognize only one authority, and it is not a president, or political party, or high priest, or teacher. My authority is Jesus. Sure, I'll do what my boss tells me at work ... because I knowingly accept a level of earthly authority he has within the earthly construct of my job ... but that is a decision that exists within the broader context of heavenly authority, and if there is ever a conflict, I side with the Lord. He is the source of wisdom and joy and blessing and judgment.

Prayer: Lord, I look to you this week for all direction and wisdom and guidance. May I have the wisdom myself only to obey you. Amen.

Paying Attention to the Impossible

Scripture: A people that you do not know will eat what your land and labor produce, and you will have nothing but cruel oppression all your days. ... The Lord will drive you and the king you set over you to a nation unknown to you or your ancestors. There you will worship other gods, gods of wood and stone. Deuteronomy 28:33,36

Observation: As Moses tells Israel all the curses that may befall them in the future if they disobey the Lord's commands and precepts and do not follow Yahweh, he begins talking about future situations that seem impossible. He mentions people they do not know, and later he talks about a great people who speak a language they've never heard. Israel has wandered everywhere, and before that their forefathers wandered in other places, so they know about all people-groups in the entire middle east. Moses also tells Israel that their king will be captured by one of these nations. This is impossible because Israel is not to have a king, for they have priests and judges with the Lord as their ruler.

We now know that, several hundred years in the future, Israel will appoint a king over themselves - in fact the battle for that kingship will cause Israel to split in two - and then an empire that doesn't even exist at the time of Moses will drag one of those kings as prisoner into a different land, along with all surviving Jews, where they will be forced to integrate into a new society that worships idols.

Through Moses, the Lord told the Jews that, if they fail to obey, that terrible things will happen through impossible circumstances. I might have been easy to brush off the punishment since the scenario couldn't exist. Therefore, several hundred years, when the scenario DOES exist, the Jews won't be fearful enough of the punishment to correct themselves.

Application: It is interesting to think about this in the context of prophesy. We often think prophesy cannot be true because it describes improbably events within the context of impossible scenarios. Therefore, when those impossible scenarios actually become reality, we better be paying attention.

This is why so many Christians believe we are near the end times ... the impossible scenarios are now all around us in our daily lives. I am one of those who believe this, though I also know 'near' may not be my lifetime. However, between social attitudes and modern technology, fantastical and impossible ideas described two to three thousand years ago are now here and happening. We better be paying attention.

Prayer: Lord, today I run to you and want to fill the holes in my life with meditation on your word, prayer, and worship. Help me crowd out the negative and sinful elements of my life. I choose to pay attention to you. Amen.