Scripture: You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to human traditions. Mark 7:8
Observation: Jesus is rebuking the Pharisees regarding their question about ceremonial washing, calling out examples of things they cling to as "law" that are not part of the law, but were created by the Jews. Some may have once aided them in complying with the law, but they now turned into meaningless practice.
In this case, the ceremonial washing of hands by the Jews had nothing to do with sanitation, nor even with the idea of clean food - it was literally a ceremonial pouring of water over the hands while repeating a blessing. In other words, the Jews had taken good laws associated with thanking and respecting God while also keeping oneself healthy, turned them into meaningless ritual with words they chanted without feeling, and then criticized others for not doing it.
Application: Where am I doing this today?
Where am I - either personally, or as part of the Church - taking the will and teaching of Jesus Christ, twisting it into a tradition contrived by men, then being critical of others for not performing or practicing that ritual quite right? In the church, we do this when we criticize worship music, or what some people wear on Sunday. In society, we do this when we get frustrated about the secularism of Christmas and Easter.
I should be a voice against this sort of religiosity. I don't need to be angry or criticize, but I can gently remind others that traditions and rituals are not important - Jesus never told us "go and decorate trees and find eggs in Jerusalem and to the ends of the earth." If a tradition or ritual gets in the way of making disciples, helping seekers feel welcome, or strengthen brotherly bonds in the body of Christ, I can be someone who sets aside such traditions for the advancement of God's kingdom.
Prayer: Here I am, Lord ... use me.
Friday, October 31, 2014
Thursday, October 30, 2014
Whom Does God Punish?
Scripture:
So how can you console me with your nonsense?
Nothing is left of your answers but falsehood!
Job 21:34
Observation: Job just spent an entire chapter disproving one concept - that God punishes the wicked during their lives on earth. As he points out, the wicked prosper: They have happy children, luxuries, health, homes, success with livestock and business ... the list goes on. In this way, Job is disproving that he is wicked or has committed sin: God is not punishing him as a wicked person, because God does not punish wicked people.
Application: I have two thoughts on this.
First, I generally agree with Job. God loves everyone, and wishes for everyone to have a good life. He DOES require us to live the consequences of bad decisions. He DOES have us live with the consequences of OTHER'S bad decisions. He does - for now - allow this broken world to function and thus hardships to occur to people. However, he does not attack people as a form of real-time retribution for their evil ways. In fact, it might be possible that - like all dads - God punishes only his own children, ignoring those who are not his (unless the time comes to protect his family).
Second, the entire conversation about prosperity and punishment is an example of how God's ways are so above our ways. All the things Job had and lost - home, sheep, rich foods, family, public reputation - these are earthly things that are generally meaningless in the kingdom of God. From God's perspective, Job hasn't lost anything. And from Job's perspective, while he has lost these things, he is most concerned with whether or not he has lost God's love ... his friends are telling him he has, and he's adamantly refuting just that one fact.
When I interact with God, I need to be aware of what his blessing and his wrath look like. His wrath is not hardship - it would be his withdrawal from my life. His blessing is not wealth or comfort - it is his love that manifests through a relationship with Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your love! Please, never withdraw from me, but guide me into a deeper and closer relationship with you.
So how can you console me with your nonsense?
Nothing is left of your answers but falsehood!
Job 21:34
Observation: Job just spent an entire chapter disproving one concept - that God punishes the wicked during their lives on earth. As he points out, the wicked prosper: They have happy children, luxuries, health, homes, success with livestock and business ... the list goes on. In this way, Job is disproving that he is wicked or has committed sin: God is not punishing him as a wicked person, because God does not punish wicked people.
Application: I have two thoughts on this.
First, I generally agree with Job. God loves everyone, and wishes for everyone to have a good life. He DOES require us to live the consequences of bad decisions. He DOES have us live with the consequences of OTHER'S bad decisions. He does - for now - allow this broken world to function and thus hardships to occur to people. However, he does not attack people as a form of real-time retribution for their evil ways. In fact, it might be possible that - like all dads - God punishes only his own children, ignoring those who are not his (unless the time comes to protect his family).
Second, the entire conversation about prosperity and punishment is an example of how God's ways are so above our ways. All the things Job had and lost - home, sheep, rich foods, family, public reputation - these are earthly things that are generally meaningless in the kingdom of God. From God's perspective, Job hasn't lost anything. And from Job's perspective, while he has lost these things, he is most concerned with whether or not he has lost God's love ... his friends are telling him he has, and he's adamantly refuting just that one fact.
When I interact with God, I need to be aware of what his blessing and his wrath look like. His wrath is not hardship - it would be his withdrawal from my life. His blessing is not wealth or comfort - it is his love that manifests through a relationship with Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your love! Please, never withdraw from me, but guide me into a deeper and closer relationship with you.
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Mercy, not Judgment
Scripture:
How long will you torment me
and crush me with words?
Ten times now you have reproached me;
shamelessly you attack me...
If you say, "How we will hound him,
since the root of the trouble lies in him,"
you should fear the sword yourselves;
for wrath will bring punishment by the sword,
and then you will know that there is judgment.
Job 19:2-3,28-29
Observation: In this entire section, Job is simply asking or mercy from his friends. He is no longer concerned with whether or not he is right/righteous. He is even willing to state that he is under attack by God, and there may be an offense he committed. But that is between him and God - he just wants his friends to quit judging him, and to have compassion.
Application: Every judgment I pass onto others will be returned to me by God, because judgment only belongs to him.
How many times have I said or thought some version of: "That person made bad decisions and brought those troubles into their own life," or "When you do bad things over and over, you get the consequences," or "They have rejected God, and that's why their life is an empty mess"? I probably think something like that 20 times a day.
Whoa to me!!! Such a curse is upon me! I should fear the sword, for it is upon me with the judgment of God.
As a matter of fact, the condition of others is truly none of my business. I have no way of knowing its source, and even if I did that has no bearing on anything. The facts of people's spiritual lives is something they need to work out with God, with Jesus as their redeemer (a person Job again discusses here).
However, this chapter DOES tell me what I should be doing - I should be showing mercy to the downtrodden!! I am not to ignore them, just not judge them. I am to show compassion ... to have kind words, to not turn away, and certainly to not exalt myself above anyone simply because I do not have their burdens. These things I need to begin doing, now.
Prayer: Jesus, friend of sinners, open my eyes to the world at the end of my pointing fingers. Let my heart be filled with mercy. I am in fact a hypocrite ... I thank you so much for loving me, then judge others as lost without considering how you love them as much or more than you love me. I earnestly pray that I repent from a mind of judgment - that I no longer consider the mistakes of other that may have transpired in their past, and begin to see people with your eyes. Please, break my heart for what breaks yours.
How long will you torment me
and crush me with words?
Ten times now you have reproached me;
shamelessly you attack me...
If you say, "How we will hound him,
since the root of the trouble lies in him,"
you should fear the sword yourselves;
for wrath will bring punishment by the sword,
and then you will know that there is judgment.
Job 19:2-3,28-29
Observation: In this entire section, Job is simply asking or mercy from his friends. He is no longer concerned with whether or not he is right/righteous. He is even willing to state that he is under attack by God, and there may be an offense he committed. But that is between him and God - he just wants his friends to quit judging him, and to have compassion.
Application: Every judgment I pass onto others will be returned to me by God, because judgment only belongs to him.
How many times have I said or thought some version of: "That person made bad decisions and brought those troubles into their own life," or "When you do bad things over and over, you get the consequences," or "They have rejected God, and that's why their life is an empty mess"? I probably think something like that 20 times a day.
Whoa to me!!! Such a curse is upon me! I should fear the sword, for it is upon me with the judgment of God.
As a matter of fact, the condition of others is truly none of my business. I have no way of knowing its source, and even if I did that has no bearing on anything. The facts of people's spiritual lives is something they need to work out with God, with Jesus as their redeemer (a person Job again discusses here).
However, this chapter DOES tell me what I should be doing - I should be showing mercy to the downtrodden!! I am not to ignore them, just not judge them. I am to show compassion ... to have kind words, to not turn away, and certainly to not exalt myself above anyone simply because I do not have their burdens. These things I need to begin doing, now.
Prayer: Jesus, friend of sinners, open my eyes to the world at the end of my pointing fingers. Let my heart be filled with mercy. I am in fact a hypocrite ... I thank you so much for loving me, then judge others as lost without considering how you love them as much or more than you love me. I earnestly pray that I repent from a mind of judgment - that I no longer consider the mistakes of other that may have transpired in their past, and begin to see people with your eyes. Please, break my heart for what breaks yours.
Monday, October 27, 2014
Nothing Else Need be Said
Scripture: For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ - with all boldness and without hindrance! Acts 28:30-31
Observation: The book "The Acts of the Apostles" just ... ends, seemingly mid-thought. There isn't anything about Paul's trial and execution; Nothing about Peter coming to Rome; Nothing about any of the others back in Asia Minor and what they are continuing to do; Nothing about the expanding church elsewhere. Paul is teaching, and ...
Application: At the time this was written, Rome was still the heart of the Roman empire, which itself was a pagan nation based in old gods and imposed emperor worship. One of the reasons I believe Acts ends this way, therefore, is prophetic - the author Luke is going to end in Rome, because he knows this must be the epicenter of the church. In the effort to fulfill the great commission, the message is going "to the ends of the earth", and from the perspective of the day that would have meant to Rome, and then to wherever Rome could reach.
We all know the common reason for this ending to Acts - that the "acts of the apostles" must never actually end! WE are living out Acts 29, and the story of everything all apostles have done since Paul in Rome is massive. However, from the perspective of this one telling of the early church, Paul being free to teach in Rome without hindrance was the milestone.
Prayer: Praises may I bring for Paul, Lord God almighty! How difficult it must have been to preach boldly, knowing that your life was soon to end and there was no escaping it. Paul's letter are of course educational, but it is his outward actions that glorified you, laying the groundwork for the adoption of Christianity and taking the name of Jesus to the ends of the earth. Praise may I bring for Paul, Lord God almighty!
And praise for the modern-day Pauls as well - Rick Warren, Lee Strobel, Greg Laurie, and so many others. We are now in a land more like the old Roman empire than ever before. May their boldness prevail in this dark land.
Observation: The book "The Acts of the Apostles" just ... ends, seemingly mid-thought. There isn't anything about Paul's trial and execution; Nothing about Peter coming to Rome; Nothing about any of the others back in Asia Minor and what they are continuing to do; Nothing about the expanding church elsewhere. Paul is teaching, and ...
Application: At the time this was written, Rome was still the heart of the Roman empire, which itself was a pagan nation based in old gods and imposed emperor worship. One of the reasons I believe Acts ends this way, therefore, is prophetic - the author Luke is going to end in Rome, because he knows this must be the epicenter of the church. In the effort to fulfill the great commission, the message is going "to the ends of the earth", and from the perspective of the day that would have meant to Rome, and then to wherever Rome could reach.
We all know the common reason for this ending to Acts - that the "acts of the apostles" must never actually end! WE are living out Acts 29, and the story of everything all apostles have done since Paul in Rome is massive. However, from the perspective of this one telling of the early church, Paul being free to teach in Rome without hindrance was the milestone.
Prayer: Praises may I bring for Paul, Lord God almighty! How difficult it must have been to preach boldly, knowing that your life was soon to end and there was no escaping it. Paul's letter are of course educational, but it is his outward actions that glorified you, laying the groundwork for the adoption of Christianity and taking the name of Jesus to the ends of the earth. Praise may I bring for Paul, Lord God almighty!
And praise for the modern-day Pauls as well - Rick Warren, Lee Strobel, Greg Laurie, and so many others. We are now in a land more like the old Roman empire than ever before. May their boldness prevail in this dark land.
Friday, October 24, 2014
The Wrath of Non Believers
Scripture: Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul left them. He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord. Acts 19:8-10
Observation: This scene repeats everywhere Paul has gone. Paul speaks first in the synagogue, primarily using prophesy to prove the lordship of Jesus; Some Jews believe, but some don't, and those that don't become increasingly hostile in their resistance; Paul then focuses his teaching on the believers, instructing them in the teachings of Jesus; Meanwhile, Paul moves his teaching to a new place to include Gentiles in the Gospel message, and some of them believe.
When we meet non-believers in the place where they live, and in love and truth tell them the good news about Jesus, some simply won't believe. And the ones that don't believe will become increasingly obstinate. We see this ALL the time, all around us. If this is how the great apostle Paul was received, we cannot expect better.
Application: I have always struggled with the idea that there are people "elected" to believe in Jesus. This implies God has excluded some people. I don't believe that ... God loves EVERYONE and we know he wants everyone to return that love and worship him forever. Instead, I believe this concept is that God knows there are people who will reject him, and at some point in time we have done what we can to reach them ... and they are simply becoming abusive now ... so we are to give it a rest and move on.
That isn't to say they are lost. Someone else may try. And of course God himself is at work in their lives. There is always hope. However, eventually you move to the next person - you don't go entirely insularly and withdraw from non believers, you simply find others to address in a new way.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for those who have reached the point of utter contempt for you. For those who not only don't believe, but are openly hostile to the truth of Jesus. But today, I also pray for my fellow Christians who get attacked by those non believers - they incur the wrath of that anger in your name. You yourself called them "blessed", and I pray for that blessing upon them. In the midst of that worldly hostility that is directed at them in your name, please comfort them with your great love, and wrap them in your protection. Amen.
Observation: This scene repeats everywhere Paul has gone. Paul speaks first in the synagogue, primarily using prophesy to prove the lordship of Jesus; Some Jews believe, but some don't, and those that don't become increasingly hostile in their resistance; Paul then focuses his teaching on the believers, instructing them in the teachings of Jesus; Meanwhile, Paul moves his teaching to a new place to include Gentiles in the Gospel message, and some of them believe.
When we meet non-believers in the place where they live, and in love and truth tell them the good news about Jesus, some simply won't believe. And the ones that don't believe will become increasingly obstinate. We see this ALL the time, all around us. If this is how the great apostle Paul was received, we cannot expect better.
Application: I have always struggled with the idea that there are people "elected" to believe in Jesus. This implies God has excluded some people. I don't believe that ... God loves EVERYONE and we know he wants everyone to return that love and worship him forever. Instead, I believe this concept is that God knows there are people who will reject him, and at some point in time we have done what we can to reach them ... and they are simply becoming abusive now ... so we are to give it a rest and move on.
That isn't to say they are lost. Someone else may try. And of course God himself is at work in their lives. There is always hope. However, eventually you move to the next person - you don't go entirely insularly and withdraw from non believers, you simply find others to address in a new way.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for those who have reached the point of utter contempt for you. For those who not only don't believe, but are openly hostile to the truth of Jesus. But today, I also pray for my fellow Christians who get attacked by those non believers - they incur the wrath of that anger in your name. You yourself called them "blessed", and I pray for that blessing upon them. In the midst of that worldly hostility that is directed at them in your name, please comfort them with your great love, and wrap them in your protection. Amen.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Ready to Join the Adventure
Scripture: After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them. Acts 16:10 (emphasis added)
Observation: Out of the blue, the narrative of Acts changes to ... first person! Luke joined Paul here, at Troas.*
Application: This is just one of those nuggets I like discovering. Sometimes I think I discover these things because of my training in English literature.
My college degree is in English Lit. Not one single moment since I graduated from college have I been paid a nickel to do anything related to my actual degree. While certainly my writing ability has served me well in business, my career has been in banking, IT consulting, and government. In fact, the only time I ever put into practice my knowledge of literary critical theory, literary interpretation, or critical analysis is when reading the Bible (or helping my kids with homework).
I am amazed how - at the time in my life when I had abandoned God - he was actively preparing me as a disciple. I LOVE that fact ... the idea that maybe I wasn't as in control of my life as I pretended, but that God was there the entire time!!! I turned my back, and he held onto me; I ran away, and he pursued; I shouted in anger, and he whispered his love; I made grand plans, and he laid straight an entirely different road.
Prayer: I will never, ever be able to say this enough, Lord: Thank you for loving me first! When I hated you, you loved me, and for all eternity I will worship you. Even when I was far from you, you prepared me for your purpose here on earth. Please lead me into that purpose so my work may glorify your name.
* To confirm, I did some internet research, and the Catholic Encyclopedia at newadvent.org agrees with my conclusion that Luke did, in fact, first join with Paul at Troas, though Luke is likely from Antioch and may have known Paul there.
Observation: Out of the blue, the narrative of Acts changes to ... first person! Luke joined Paul here, at Troas.*
Application: This is just one of those nuggets I like discovering. Sometimes I think I discover these things because of my training in English literature.
My college degree is in English Lit. Not one single moment since I graduated from college have I been paid a nickel to do anything related to my actual degree. While certainly my writing ability has served me well in business, my career has been in banking, IT consulting, and government. In fact, the only time I ever put into practice my knowledge of literary critical theory, literary interpretation, or critical analysis is when reading the Bible (or helping my kids with homework).
I am amazed how - at the time in my life when I had abandoned God - he was actively preparing me as a disciple. I LOVE that fact ... the idea that maybe I wasn't as in control of my life as I pretended, but that God was there the entire time!!! I turned my back, and he held onto me; I ran away, and he pursued; I shouted in anger, and he whispered his love; I made grand plans, and he laid straight an entirely different road.
Prayer: I will never, ever be able to say this enough, Lord: Thank you for loving me first! When I hated you, you loved me, and for all eternity I will worship you. Even when I was far from you, you prepared me for your purpose here on earth. Please lead me into that purpose so my work may glorify your name.
* To confirm, I did some internet research, and the Catholic Encyclopedia at newadvent.org agrees with my conclusion that Luke did, in fact, first join with Paul at Troas, though Luke is likely from Antioch and may have known Paul there.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Don't Go It Alone
Scripture:
How then can I dispute with him?
How can I find words to argue with him?
Though I were innocent, I could not answer him;
I could only plead with my Judge for mercy ...
If only there were someone to mediate between us,
someone to bring us together,
someone to remove God’s rod from me,
so that his terror would frighten me no more.
Job 9:14-15,33-34
Observation: Job sums up Jesus in the span of about three dozen verses! God is our Lord, he has given us laws, and when we fail to fulfill them we fall short of his expectations and become subject to his judgment. We are so imperfect that even our defenses would become sin. However, Jesus came as savior to mediate between us and God. He took our sin, so that God now sees us through his perfect love ... he is now our abba daddy who loves us, and with whom we can have a relationship.
When we come to God without Jesus, we present ourselves as rebellious men whom God will judge; When we come to God through Jesus, we present ourselves has sons and daughters whom he loves.
Application: We must always remember what is at the heart of our Christian life - a relationship with Jesus. I once heard a wise man say that, without Jesus, a person "must work out their relationship with God on their own." In Job 9, Job is very clear about what that means: Going to God on your own means you are condemned due to your human, sinful nature that cannot be acceptable to God.
With Jesus, our mediator acknowledges us as children in the family, and we go to God in love.
Without Jesus, we are absolutely guilty of our sins, without any path of absolution, and therefore under righteous judgment. With Jesus, we are cleansed and forgiven, and accepted in mercy.
Prayer: Jesus, you are my Lord and savior. You is the center of my life, and the only person or thing with whom I place my faith. Please, Jesus, guide me in doing your will here on earth - fulfilling your purposes for my life - so that you will acknowledge me before our father in heaven. Amen.
How then can I dispute with him?
How can I find words to argue with him?
Though I were innocent, I could not answer him;
I could only plead with my Judge for mercy ...
If only there were someone to mediate between us,
someone to bring us together,
someone to remove God’s rod from me,
so that his terror would frighten me no more.
Job 9:14-15,33-34
Observation: Job sums up Jesus in the span of about three dozen verses! God is our Lord, he has given us laws, and when we fail to fulfill them we fall short of his expectations and become subject to his judgment. We are so imperfect that even our defenses would become sin. However, Jesus came as savior to mediate between us and God. He took our sin, so that God now sees us through his perfect love ... he is now our abba daddy who loves us, and with whom we can have a relationship.
When we come to God without Jesus, we present ourselves as rebellious men whom God will judge; When we come to God through Jesus, we present ourselves has sons and daughters whom he loves.
Application: We must always remember what is at the heart of our Christian life - a relationship with Jesus. I once heard a wise man say that, without Jesus, a person "must work out their relationship with God on their own." In Job 9, Job is very clear about what that means: Going to God on your own means you are condemned due to your human, sinful nature that cannot be acceptable to God.
With Jesus, our mediator acknowledges us as children in the family, and we go to God in love.
Without Jesus, we are absolutely guilty of our sins, without any path of absolution, and therefore under righteous judgment. With Jesus, we are cleansed and forgiven, and accepted in mercy.
Prayer: Jesus, you are my Lord and savior. You is the center of my life, and the only person or thing with whom I place my faith. Please, Jesus, guide me in doing your will here on earth - fulfilling your purposes for my life - so that you will acknowledge me before our father in heaven. Amen.
Friday, October 17, 2014
What Leaders Do
Scripture: Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word. ... So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. Acts 6:3-4,7
Observation: Within months of the church being created, they saw the need for "senior" elders and pastors to focus on teaching and discerning the will of God. They therefore commissioned others to do the "work" of the church, AND empowered them with responsibility to execute.
Application: Today, the application of this truth only lies with me tangentially, for my job is to pray for someone.
Prayer: Dear Lord, you know the issue this is about. We both know that the man who really needs this truth has already read this passage today, and we know that the truth about this matter has been conveyed to him by several others. But he wants to do it all - in fact he refuses to delegate and let go. This fact creates a stumbling block for him, and a roadblock for your church.
I pray for this person, Lord. I believe him to be a man wholly committed to you, and earnestly trying to do your will. Please reveal your truth to him. Give him strength to be humble, to and to accept the possibility of change in his ways. I know that, if this happens, there is no end to what your church can accomplish.
Amen, and amen.
Observation: Within months of the church being created, they saw the need for "senior" elders and pastors to focus on teaching and discerning the will of God. They therefore commissioned others to do the "work" of the church, AND empowered them with responsibility to execute.
Application: Today, the application of this truth only lies with me tangentially, for my job is to pray for someone.
Prayer: Dear Lord, you know the issue this is about. We both know that the man who really needs this truth has already read this passage today, and we know that the truth about this matter has been conveyed to him by several others. But he wants to do it all - in fact he refuses to delegate and let go. This fact creates a stumbling block for him, and a roadblock for your church.
I pray for this person, Lord. I believe him to be a man wholly committed to you, and earnestly trying to do your will. Please reveal your truth to him. Give him strength to be humble, to and to accept the possibility of change in his ways. I know that, if this happens, there is no end to what your church can accomplish.
Amen, and amen.
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
What Do I Know
After reading today's devotions, I don't have a lot of insight. So instead, I'll post one of my favorite songs:
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
When Yelling Works
Scripture: When he [the cripple] saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. Acts 3:3-5
Observation: Peter is about to heal this man and give glory to Jesus. However, there is something else going on in this exchange that is hard for me to put my finger on. I think this caught my attention due to the way the crippled man is indecisive in his level of interaction with Peter and John.
Within these four sentences, the man goes from a) seeing Peter and John going into church, to b) initiating an interaction with them, to c) completely disengaging with them, to d) responding to a firm order, to e) physically reaching to them.
Of course, he isn't reaching for the reasons Peter and John wish he would. He isn't reaching out in faith to Jesus (the faith that heals him is Peter's and John's). Instead, he wants something material - he wants money. He is in need of earthly things, and believes these men entering the temple are about to give it to him.
Application: I think this the REAL way non-believers engage with the church. This is the exchange in a microcosm ... this represents what may sometimes be years of interaction, crammed into three seconds of action.
First, non-believers simply see 'the church' and the people, and they wonder if we will give them something ... probably wanting some love and assistance. However, since they request is just a material need, they disengage ... sometimes they just don't have hope, sometimes they get hurt, sometimes other believers have done nothing for so long they just expect no better from us.
But what we do next is key ... how could we get a non-believer to physically interact with Jesus? Would we DARE to YELL at them?! Would we dare to command them to re-engage with us??? And if they did, would we get over the fact that they did so not because of faith but because they thought we were about to give them some secular comfort, and actually instead bring our full faith to bear for their salvation?
I think most of us do the initial engagement with the non-believer, but when they disengage we wonder what to do next. Maybe we toss them a coin and hope they say "thanks" so we can restart the interaction. Maybe we think "phew, that was a close one" and just walk on by. We'll gently talk, but very few of us yell at them ... command them to "look at us ... re-engage with me ... I'm about to shove Jesus at you ... so get your fanny into this church building NOW!!"
Prayer: Jesus, I'm ready to yell at people who have disengaged. May your words be ever in my mouth, and may I be open to your leading to do your work and your will every day.
Observation: Peter is about to heal this man and give glory to Jesus. However, there is something else going on in this exchange that is hard for me to put my finger on. I think this caught my attention due to the way the crippled man is indecisive in his level of interaction with Peter and John.
Within these four sentences, the man goes from a) seeing Peter and John going into church, to b) initiating an interaction with them, to c) completely disengaging with them, to d) responding to a firm order, to e) physically reaching to them.
Of course, he isn't reaching for the reasons Peter and John wish he would. He isn't reaching out in faith to Jesus (the faith that heals him is Peter's and John's). Instead, he wants something material - he wants money. He is in need of earthly things, and believes these men entering the temple are about to give it to him.
Application: I think this the REAL way non-believers engage with the church. This is the exchange in a microcosm ... this represents what may sometimes be years of interaction, crammed into three seconds of action.
First, non-believers simply see 'the church' and the people, and they wonder if we will give them something ... probably wanting some love and assistance. However, since they request is just a material need, they disengage ... sometimes they just don't have hope, sometimes they get hurt, sometimes other believers have done nothing for so long they just expect no better from us.
But what we do next is key ... how could we get a non-believer to physically interact with Jesus? Would we DARE to YELL at them?! Would we dare to command them to re-engage with us??? And if they did, would we get over the fact that they did so not because of faith but because they thought we were about to give them some secular comfort, and actually instead bring our full faith to bear for their salvation?
I think most of us do the initial engagement with the non-believer, but when they disengage we wonder what to do next. Maybe we toss them a coin and hope they say "thanks" so we can restart the interaction. Maybe we think "phew, that was a close one" and just walk on by. We'll gently talk, but very few of us yell at them ... command them to "look at us ... re-engage with me ... I'm about to shove Jesus at you ... so get your fanny into this church building NOW!!"
Prayer: Jesus, I'm ready to yell at people who have disengaged. May your words be ever in my mouth, and may I be open to your leading to do your work and your will every day.
Friday, October 10, 2014
Do God's Work
Scripture: Uzziel son of Harhaiah, one of the goldsmiths, repaired the next section; and Hananiah, one of the perfume-makers, made repairs next to that. They restored Jerusalem as far as the Broad Wall. Nehemiah 3:8
Observation: Jerusalem needed the walls rebuilt, and many in the city were doing the work. These two in particular are NOT stone masons, construction experts, or soldiers. Hananiah in particular may have no experience with any kind of manual labor. This kind of work - moving and laying huge stones, where hands could get calloused and fingers broken - may even be detrimental to the (likely delicate) work his hands needed to do in order to earn a living.
That didn't matter. God's people had work to be done, and he responded. When there is work to do, the response is to do it.
Application: A few years ago, I learned this lesson the hard way. I had become arrogant and boastful in my position in church, in my heart looking down on some of the volunteer work people did and valuing other work more highly. So my work was taken away and my position removed.
I spent the next ~3 years at another church, and relegated myself to manual labor. If someone needed a stack of chairs put away, or a table moved, or weeds pulled, I did it. And I learned ... God wants us to serve in his body, and whatever he asks of us, that's God's work.
I still have to check myself on this. When I am asked to lead something at church now, I need to ensure my heart is 'right' and that I'm not proud of the call. I do some ministries that are nothing but labor and I hope no one even notices, as the discipline is necessary. Now, I see others doing what I used to do - leading, but also becoming arrogant in their leadership role ... and I wish I could say something to them.
Hananiah would make a good biblical mentor. It doesn't matter what you THINK your call/spiritual gifts/passions/skills are ... when God has work to be done, go do it ... you'll be eternally rewarded!
Prayer: Lord, I do pray that I be humble - that the work I do keeps my heart right so that, when I am in leadership roles, my service to you is even more effective for your Kingdom. However, if I become prideful, I welcome your correction. It may hurt my pride, but you and I both know my pride can use some pruning now and then to keep it healthy and to keep my life producing good fruit. Amen.
Observation: Jerusalem needed the walls rebuilt, and many in the city were doing the work. These two in particular are NOT stone masons, construction experts, or soldiers. Hananiah in particular may have no experience with any kind of manual labor. This kind of work - moving and laying huge stones, where hands could get calloused and fingers broken - may even be detrimental to the (likely delicate) work his hands needed to do in order to earn a living.
That didn't matter. God's people had work to be done, and he responded. When there is work to do, the response is to do it.
Application: A few years ago, I learned this lesson the hard way. I had become arrogant and boastful in my position in church, in my heart looking down on some of the volunteer work people did and valuing other work more highly. So my work was taken away and my position removed.
I spent the next ~3 years at another church, and relegated myself to manual labor. If someone needed a stack of chairs put away, or a table moved, or weeds pulled, I did it. And I learned ... God wants us to serve in his body, and whatever he asks of us, that's God's work.
I still have to check myself on this. When I am asked to lead something at church now, I need to ensure my heart is 'right' and that I'm not proud of the call. I do some ministries that are nothing but labor and I hope no one even notices, as the discipline is necessary. Now, I see others doing what I used to do - leading, but also becoming arrogant in their leadership role ... and I wish I could say something to them.
Hananiah would make a good biblical mentor. It doesn't matter what you THINK your call/spiritual gifts/passions/skills are ... when God has work to be done, go do it ... you'll be eternally rewarded!
Prayer: Lord, I do pray that I be humble - that the work I do keeps my heart right so that, when I am in leadership roles, my service to you is even more effective for your Kingdom. However, if I become prideful, I welcome your correction. It may hurt my pride, but you and I both know my pride can use some pruning now and then to keep it healthy and to keep my life producing good fruit. Amen.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Sign of the Times
Scripture: He told them this parable: "Look at the fig tree and all the trees. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near." Luke 21:29-31
Observation: Jesus threw out a LOT of "signs of the end times" at the disciples. Some were clearly near-term - the end of 'his' time on earth. Some were clearly long range - explicitly saying they would not happen soon and many would die first. Others were vague - saying that Jerusalem would fall to an army ... which it did in ~55 AD but some think will happen again, and without really tying that event to the "end times" anyway.
But he says there will be signs, and they will be signs we can see and understand. Just like understanding that leaves on trees is a sign of spring, there will be signs that "the end is near". We may not know what "near" means - it might mean now, or sometime this millennium, or anything in between - but we'll see the signs.
Application: Of course we DO see the signs. Everyone knows that the issues in the middle east are clearly associated with those signs. Most people should understand that the spiritual/moral collapse of the U.S. is a sign. Our technology-connected world is a sign. Will it be tomorrow? Will it be in my lifetime?
Just this morning I was walking down a hill, and the sidewalk was wet. I looked at the trees and thought "when the leaves fall off those trees, this will be a dangerous hill - stepping on a wet leaf is a quick way to fall and break your leg. I'll walk a different route to get my coffee." The leaves on the trees were still mostly green, but some were yellow, and I thought "they will turn soon, but the weather has been so nice it might not be for several week, or it might be before Halloween."
I saw and understood the signs. I foresaw the future danger and how to avoid it. I don't know the timing.
I see and understand the signs. I believe in the future danger and how to avoid it. I don't know the timing.
Prayer: Come, Lord Jesus!
Observation: Jesus threw out a LOT of "signs of the end times" at the disciples. Some were clearly near-term - the end of 'his' time on earth. Some were clearly long range - explicitly saying they would not happen soon and many would die first. Others were vague - saying that Jerusalem would fall to an army ... which it did in ~55 AD but some think will happen again, and without really tying that event to the "end times" anyway.
But he says there will be signs, and they will be signs we can see and understand. Just like understanding that leaves on trees is a sign of spring, there will be signs that "the end is near". We may not know what "near" means - it might mean now, or sometime this millennium, or anything in between - but we'll see the signs.
Application: Of course we DO see the signs. Everyone knows that the issues in the middle east are clearly associated with those signs. Most people should understand that the spiritual/moral collapse of the U.S. is a sign. Our technology-connected world is a sign. Will it be tomorrow? Will it be in my lifetime?
Just this morning I was walking down a hill, and the sidewalk was wet. I looked at the trees and thought "when the leaves fall off those trees, this will be a dangerous hill - stepping on a wet leaf is a quick way to fall and break your leg. I'll walk a different route to get my coffee." The leaves on the trees were still mostly green, but some were yellow, and I thought "they will turn soon, but the weather has been so nice it might not be for several week, or it might be before Halloween."
I saw and understood the signs. I foresaw the future danger and how to avoid it. I don't know the timing.
I see and understand the signs. I believe in the future danger and how to avoid it. I don't know the timing.
Prayer: Come, Lord Jesus!
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Brief History of Time
Scripture: After these things, during the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah, the son of Shallum, the son of Zadok, the son of Ahitub, the son of Amariah, the son of Azariah, the son of Meraioth, the son of Zerahiah, the son of Uzzi, the son of Bukki, the son of Abishua, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the chief priest - this Ezra came up from Babylon. Ezra 7:1-6a
Observation: I usually glaze over - or completely skip - the lineage conversations in the Bible. However, this one caught my eye as it involved Ezra demonstrating his direct lineage straight back to Aaron.
Including both, there are 17 generations listed, and if one assumes 50 years per generation, that thus takes us back 850 years (or from ~450 BC to ~1,300 BC ... pretty much on the money for the timeframes of Ezra and Aaron).
In one quick shot through sometimes unpronounceable names, I was reminded of the breadth of Israel's history. They have just come out of exile, which was preceded by the divided kingdom that involved separate falls of both Judah and Israel. Before that, you had the kingships of Solomon, David, and Saul, preceded by the judges era. And that was all only after Joshua lead them into the promised, after Moses (and Aaron) lead them for 40 years of wandering, after the exodus.
To me, it's amazing that one list of names became 850 years of a unified history, linking the original head priest to the prophet that would usher in the new temple ... and write one of the very last prophetic books before the coming of Messiah.
Application: I need to remain in awe of the Bible!! It is the living word of God, and even the least bit of information can provide insight into God. In this case, we see a complete plan encapsulated through a reminder of history. God chose a people through which to show himself. It started with their salvation from famine, then their delivery from slavery, then through peace in a promised land, then through righteous judgment when they rebelled, then through forgiveness out of that judgment, and soon to be the final blessing to all mankind.
I think God had the Jews remember their lineages just so we could, from time to time, be reminded that he was in control that entire time. If he can control an entire nation for a millennium, I can trust him to control my life for my short time on earth.
Prayer: God, have your way with me. May my life a living sacrifice for you, not conforming to the world, but transformed through your word. Amen.
Observation: I usually glaze over - or completely skip - the lineage conversations in the Bible. However, this one caught my eye as it involved Ezra demonstrating his direct lineage straight back to Aaron.
Including both, there are 17 generations listed, and if one assumes 50 years per generation, that thus takes us back 850 years (or from ~450 BC to ~1,300 BC ... pretty much on the money for the timeframes of Ezra and Aaron).
In one quick shot through sometimes unpronounceable names, I was reminded of the breadth of Israel's history. They have just come out of exile, which was preceded by the divided kingdom that involved separate falls of both Judah and Israel. Before that, you had the kingships of Solomon, David, and Saul, preceded by the judges era. And that was all only after Joshua lead them into the promised, after Moses (and Aaron) lead them for 40 years of wandering, after the exodus.
To me, it's amazing that one list of names became 850 years of a unified history, linking the original head priest to the prophet that would usher in the new temple ... and write one of the very last prophetic books before the coming of Messiah.
Application: I need to remain in awe of the Bible!! It is the living word of God, and even the least bit of information can provide insight into God. In this case, we see a complete plan encapsulated through a reminder of history. God chose a people through which to show himself. It started with their salvation from famine, then their delivery from slavery, then through peace in a promised land, then through righteous judgment when they rebelled, then through forgiveness out of that judgment, and soon to be the final blessing to all mankind.
I think God had the Jews remember their lineages just so we could, from time to time, be reminded that he was in control that entire time. If he can control an entire nation for a millennium, I can trust him to control my life for my short time on earth.
Prayer: God, have your way with me. May my life a living sacrifice for you, not conforming to the world, but transformed through your word. Amen.
Monday, October 6, 2014
Work Until I Come Back
Scripture: So he called ten of his servants and gave them ten minas. ‘Put this money to work,’ he said, ‘until I come back.’ Luke 19:13
Observation: This is a version of one of my favorite parables, but there are significant differences here that is not in the version in Matthew 25. In Matthew, the master "entrusts" the servants with the gold "according to their abilities" and leaves. Here, he gives equal amounts, but adds an explicit instruction - "put this money to work" - AND there is a time frame - "until I come back."
In addition, there is a third set of actors in this version - other people who do not want the rich man to become king, and they attempt to prevent that result.
In the end, both parables produce the same results for the servants - those who put the money to work and earned more are entrusted with more and receive a reward, the one who did not put the money to work at all is called "wicked" and has the money taken away. In addition, the enemies who tried to undermine the rich man are put to death.
As a result of these differences, there is a completely different tone to this version of the parable. In Matthew, their is the lesson that believers are to advance Jesus' kingdom and do his work, and will be rewarded for doing so, however believers who do nothing will be punished. In Luke, however, there is a clearer issue at work in that delineation between the servants/believers ... in Luke, there is a failure to obey a specific instruction. It is no longer an issue of generally failing to be faithful when entrusted with a task by Jesus, but instead a specific act of disobedience. The servants were told to put the money to work, and one explicitly didn't.
That said, Luke includes even a worse example of punishment than having your possessions removed ... enemies (non-believers) who are put to death. Their judgment is beyond losing what they have, but it is losing their lives.
Application: Faith in Jesus requires action! I know this, but it is always our actions that reveal our faith. A believer who does not act is NOT a non-believer, however there is clearly an uncertainty about their future place in the kingdom of God.
I will be a believer who takes action. I don't do this to earn my salvation, but rather to express my love for Jesus.
The minor additions to this version of parable are instructive to me. First, there ARE instructions. God doesn't just say "go do" but he says "go and do what I am telling you to do." Second, there is a timeframe. This is our work until Jesus returns - the work of Jesus is the work of the church.
Prayer: God, show me what I may do today to increase your kingdom. May even my smallest tasks and words bring glory to you.
Observation: This is a version of one of my favorite parables, but there are significant differences here that is not in the version in Matthew 25. In Matthew, the master "entrusts" the servants with the gold "according to their abilities" and leaves. Here, he gives equal amounts, but adds an explicit instruction - "put this money to work" - AND there is a time frame - "until I come back."
In addition, there is a third set of actors in this version - other people who do not want the rich man to become king, and they attempt to prevent that result.
In the end, both parables produce the same results for the servants - those who put the money to work and earned more are entrusted with more and receive a reward, the one who did not put the money to work at all is called "wicked" and has the money taken away. In addition, the enemies who tried to undermine the rich man are put to death.
As a result of these differences, there is a completely different tone to this version of the parable. In Matthew, their is the lesson that believers are to advance Jesus' kingdom and do his work, and will be rewarded for doing so, however believers who do nothing will be punished. In Luke, however, there is a clearer issue at work in that delineation between the servants/believers ... in Luke, there is a failure to obey a specific instruction. It is no longer an issue of generally failing to be faithful when entrusted with a task by Jesus, but instead a specific act of disobedience. The servants were told to put the money to work, and one explicitly didn't.
That said, Luke includes even a worse example of punishment than having your possessions removed ... enemies (non-believers) who are put to death. Their judgment is beyond losing what they have, but it is losing their lives.
Application: Faith in Jesus requires action! I know this, but it is always our actions that reveal our faith. A believer who does not act is NOT a non-believer, however there is clearly an uncertainty about their future place in the kingdom of God.
I will be a believer who takes action. I don't do this to earn my salvation, but rather to express my love for Jesus.
The minor additions to this version of parable are instructive to me. First, there ARE instructions. God doesn't just say "go do" but he says "go and do what I am telling you to do." Second, there is a timeframe. This is our work until Jesus returns - the work of Jesus is the work of the church.
Prayer: God, show me what I may do today to increase your kingdom. May even my smallest tasks and words bring glory to you.
Friday, October 3, 2014
Drink the Old Wine!
Scripture: The Law and the Prophets were proclaimed until John. Since that time, the good news of the kingdom of God is being preached, and everyone is forcing their way into it. It is easier for heaven and earth to disappear than for the least stroke of a pen to drop out of the Law ... He said to him, "If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead." Luke 16:16-17,31
Observation: For Christians - believers in Jesus - the Law of the old testament matters! While we know that we are saved by our faith, and not by our works, that is not to say we can simply listed to the "good news" and thus "force" our way into the kingdom of God. We must also listen to the law and the prophets.
This is the "faith vs. works" discussion - or more accurately I believe, "savior vs. lord".
I may have said this before, but this is a lesson I learned from a high school girl several years ago. So many believers proclaim Jesus as their "lord and savior", then love to revel in the "savior" side of that equation while completely ignoring - or even rebelling against - the lordship of Jesus.
God has given us instructions, and the early church struggled with understanding how Jewish law applied to Gentile believers. Some of the law is specific to Hebrews, but much of the law is God's instructions for his people - which believers are now adopted into. We must live within that law as much as we live within the new covenant of Jesus' resurrection and salvation.
Application: You do not put new wine into old wineskins. However, you DO drink and enjoy old wine!! Jesus says multiple times that his salvation adds to God's law - it does not remove it, replace it, or delete it. Luke 16:31 is an interesting variation on that ... that believers who do not accept the teaching of the prophets won't accept the resurrection either.
It is important for me to maintain my belief and understanding in the old testament, not just the new. As I read God's word, my understanding of the prophets - and seeking instruction from their teaching - is part and parcel with my faith in Jesus and acceptance of the gospel.
Prayer: Lord, I welcome the hard lessons of the old testament ... understanding your law, your guidance, your judgments, and you love. May my understanding of you, and of your love, be increased in my heart in reading the old testament, and may ALL parts of your word contribute to a right relationship with you.
Observation: For Christians - believers in Jesus - the Law of the old testament matters! While we know that we are saved by our faith, and not by our works, that is not to say we can simply listed to the "good news" and thus "force" our way into the kingdom of God. We must also listen to the law and the prophets.
This is the "faith vs. works" discussion - or more accurately I believe, "savior vs. lord".
I may have said this before, but this is a lesson I learned from a high school girl several years ago. So many believers proclaim Jesus as their "lord and savior", then love to revel in the "savior" side of that equation while completely ignoring - or even rebelling against - the lordship of Jesus.
God has given us instructions, and the early church struggled with understanding how Jewish law applied to Gentile believers. Some of the law is specific to Hebrews, but much of the law is God's instructions for his people - which believers are now adopted into. We must live within that law as much as we live within the new covenant of Jesus' resurrection and salvation.
Application: You do not put new wine into old wineskins. However, you DO drink and enjoy old wine!! Jesus says multiple times that his salvation adds to God's law - it does not remove it, replace it, or delete it. Luke 16:31 is an interesting variation on that ... that believers who do not accept the teaching of the prophets won't accept the resurrection either.
It is important for me to maintain my belief and understanding in the old testament, not just the new. As I read God's word, my understanding of the prophets - and seeking instruction from their teaching - is part and parcel with my faith in Jesus and acceptance of the gospel.
Prayer: Lord, I welcome the hard lessons of the old testament ... understanding your law, your guidance, your judgments, and you love. May my understanding of you, and of your love, be increased in my heart in reading the old testament, and may ALL parts of your word contribute to a right relationship with you.
Thursday, October 2, 2014
Worship Time
Scripture:
Praise the Lord.
After seeing Casting Crowns this weekend, I just want to enjoy some worship time today! So on that note ...
... and ...
Praise the Lord.
How good it is to sing praises to our God,
how pleasant and fitting to praise him!
Psalms 147:1how pleasant and fitting to praise him!
After seeing Casting Crowns this weekend, I just want to enjoy some worship time today! So on that note ...
... and ...
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Spirit of Grace and Supplication
Scripture: And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look to me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son. Zechariah 12:10
Observation: These are the scriptures - the old testament the Jews had centuries before Christ - and this is a published prophesy. It is now obvious this prophesy was fulfilled ~600 years later, in the crucifixion of Jesus and the pouring out of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
Application: I don't know enough about the old testament. For example, I have always believed that prophesy about the Messiah was primarily limited to Isaiah. However, Messiah keeps popping up everywhere in the "minor prophets" too! No wonder the Jews were so convinced and aware of his coming - their scriptures were full of him!!!
I have now completed one month of daily devotions. I missed my reading only twice, and blogged almost 15-20 times. I love what I am learning, and what I am seeing. And I really love getting to spend time dedicated in thought to God and Jesus every day.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for assisting me in setting my feet upon your path. I yearn to grow closer to you, and to join with you in your will and your way. By your grace, please guide my daily life, as I seek to humbly supplicate to your daily guidance. Thank you for loving me. Amen.
Observation: These are the scriptures - the old testament the Jews had centuries before Christ - and this is a published prophesy. It is now obvious this prophesy was fulfilled ~600 years later, in the crucifixion of Jesus and the pouring out of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
Application: I don't know enough about the old testament. For example, I have always believed that prophesy about the Messiah was primarily limited to Isaiah. However, Messiah keeps popping up everywhere in the "minor prophets" too! No wonder the Jews were so convinced and aware of his coming - their scriptures were full of him!!!
I have now completed one month of daily devotions. I missed my reading only twice, and blogged almost 15-20 times. I love what I am learning, and what I am seeing. And I really love getting to spend time dedicated in thought to God and Jesus every day.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for assisting me in setting my feet upon your path. I yearn to grow closer to you, and to join with you in your will and your way. By your grace, please guide my daily life, as I seek to humbly supplicate to your daily guidance. Thank you for loving me. Amen.
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