Scripture: By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. “This is a remote place,” they said, “and it’s already very late. Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” But he answered, “You give them something to eat.” They said to him, “That would take more than half a year’s wages! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?” “How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.” When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.” Mark 6:35-38
Observation: Here is something I never noticed before about the story of the feeding of the 5,000: The disciples aren't worried about where THEY will get food, late in this remote place. In other words ... they had their OWN food, and what they were really worried about was potentially being asked to share it or at best rudely and guiltily eating it in front of others.
And Jesus was therefore telling them to share, with the ensuing conversation really being about the disciples wishing to take care of their own money/supplies.
In fact, in John's telling of this, the five loaves and two fish belong to a young boy. And even that doesn't sound like a good dinner for 13 grown men. It is possible, then, that even this inventory of what the disciples have available excludes "their" reserves.
Application: Even when I know that God has given me everything, there is a temptation to say "and since you gave this to me, you must not mean you want this when you ask me to give what I have to you."
What is my "this"? What is the item I would be inclined to withhold from God if he ever asks "give me your all"? Is it my family? My house? My retirement accounts? My life?
In reflecting just now, I find the things I am thinking of are those things that would affect not me, but my wife and children. My retirement and house exist not so much for me, but for their future support and stability. In fact, I would more readily give my life than my pension, I believe.
Prayer: Lord, I do not know what today's lesson means for me. Is this for me to dwell upon, or is there an action required? Is the lesson that I need to trust in you for the provision of my children's futures? Please lead me by your spirit to understanding this today. Amen.
Friday, February 27, 2015
Thursday, February 26, 2015
The Sin is Self Worship
Scripture: The Lord said to Moses, “Take the staff, and you and your brother Aaron gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water. You will bring water out of the rock for the community so they and their livestock can drink.” So Moses took the staff from the Lord’s presence, just as he commanded him. He and Aaron gathered the assembly together in front of the rock and Moses said to them, “Listen, you rebels, must we bring you water out of this rock?” Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank. But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them.” Numbers 20:7-12
Observation: Moses and Aaron screwed up. They didn't speak to the rock - the spoke to the people, then struck the rock. What was worse, they effectively said "look what WE can do!"
God brought the water out of the rock not because Moses struck it, but because it was his will. He didn't need Moses and Aaron in order to do that - they needed God. They forgot this simple fact, and as a result were held accountable for their error.
Application: Self-worship is the most basic error of believers interacting with God. We ALL do it ... we all take credit for success, or attribute good things to our talents, or call attention to ourselves, or even just want to take actions that make ourselves happy and comfortable.
I am my first idol. Every day, I need to remind myself:
-- God provides everything for me.
-- My abilities and talents are from God, and for God.
-- All I own is his if he wishes to take it back.
-- My life must be a living sacrifice to God.
Prayer: Lord, may my life and all that is part of my life serve you. I am not my own - I am yours. Please show me love and correction when I fall into the trap of self-worship, and guide me back into a right understanding of my life and my purpose. Thank you for loving me!!
Observation: Moses and Aaron screwed up. They didn't speak to the rock - the spoke to the people, then struck the rock. What was worse, they effectively said "look what WE can do!"
God brought the water out of the rock not because Moses struck it, but because it was his will. He didn't need Moses and Aaron in order to do that - they needed God. They forgot this simple fact, and as a result were held accountable for their error.
Application: Self-worship is the most basic error of believers interacting with God. We ALL do it ... we all take credit for success, or attribute good things to our talents, or call attention to ourselves, or even just want to take actions that make ourselves happy and comfortable.
I am my first idol. Every day, I need to remind myself:
-- God provides everything for me.
-- My abilities and talents are from God, and for God.
-- All I own is his if he wishes to take it back.
-- My life must be a living sacrifice to God.
Prayer: Lord, may my life and all that is part of my life serve you. I am not my own - I am yours. Please show me love and correction when I fall into the trap of self-worship, and guide me back into a right understanding of my life and my purpose. Thank you for loving me!!
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Who Brought the Thunder?
Scripture: These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”) ... Mark 3:16-17
Observation: There are two ways to interpret the renaming of James and John. It could be that as strong and confident men (as we know they were) they were collectively like thunder. Or it could be that ... Zebedee was like thunder and Jesus was referring to him.
IF the accurate interpretation is the latter, this would represent the only reference that I know of that indicates there was any sort of relationship between Jesus and Zebedee. This is peculiar given the fact that Jesus effectively upended everything about Zebedee's life. Over time, Jesus took away Zebedee's business partner (Peter) and his primary labor (his two sons), likely ruining his business, and eventually causing his wife to also leave their home (she is eventually among the followers in Jerusalem). However, we have almost no information about Zebedee's interactions with or attitude toward Jesus.
Application: In thinking about this ... I wonder ... did Zebedee not become a believer, becoming abandoned by his wife and children due to his lack of faith? Did he become bitter toward Jesus because of this, thus expressing anger and earning the nickname "thunder" as a result?
Or did Zebedee join his family and become a behind-the-scenes pillar of faith? As a fisherman, did he provide food and labor for the core group of followers, allowing his thunderous sons the time to learn at Jesus' feet and in that way serve God by serving his own children?
Or maybe he became the secret checkbook behind the ministry? Zebedee was a successful and prominent businessman (we are told he had several employees, and his sons were known by prominent leaders, implying he himself was prominent). Was Zebedee working back home in order to fund the ministry and give his sons and Jesus the financial freedom they needed to do God's work?
If so ... should Zebedee be my role model? As I have been shown, I am to be humbly supporting my wife and children so they may become strong church leaders. So I serve with my provision in their lives, and with manual work behind the scenes at church. Maybe ... I should be honored if someday someone compares me to Zebedee.
Prayer: Lord, my thoughts today a pure speculation since I know almost nothing of Zebedee but for his name. That said, may I continue to serve you in humility, by serving my family who are all three strong models of faith for your church. Thank you for your guidance today.
Observation: There are two ways to interpret the renaming of James and John. It could be that as strong and confident men (as we know they were) they were collectively like thunder. Or it could be that ... Zebedee was like thunder and Jesus was referring to him.
IF the accurate interpretation is the latter, this would represent the only reference that I know of that indicates there was any sort of relationship between Jesus and Zebedee. This is peculiar given the fact that Jesus effectively upended everything about Zebedee's life. Over time, Jesus took away Zebedee's business partner (Peter) and his primary labor (his two sons), likely ruining his business, and eventually causing his wife to also leave their home (she is eventually among the followers in Jerusalem). However, we have almost no information about Zebedee's interactions with or attitude toward Jesus.
Application: In thinking about this ... I wonder ... did Zebedee not become a believer, becoming abandoned by his wife and children due to his lack of faith? Did he become bitter toward Jesus because of this, thus expressing anger and earning the nickname "thunder" as a result?
Or did Zebedee join his family and become a behind-the-scenes pillar of faith? As a fisherman, did he provide food and labor for the core group of followers, allowing his thunderous sons the time to learn at Jesus' feet and in that way serve God by serving his own children?
Or maybe he became the secret checkbook behind the ministry? Zebedee was a successful and prominent businessman (we are told he had several employees, and his sons were known by prominent leaders, implying he himself was prominent). Was Zebedee working back home in order to fund the ministry and give his sons and Jesus the financial freedom they needed to do God's work?
If so ... should Zebedee be my role model? As I have been shown, I am to be humbly supporting my wife and children so they may become strong church leaders. So I serve with my provision in their lives, and with manual work behind the scenes at church. Maybe ... I should be honored if someday someone compares me to Zebedee.
Prayer: Lord, my thoughts today a pure speculation since I know almost nothing of Zebedee but for his name. That said, may I continue to serve you in humility, by serving my family who are all three strong models of faith for your church. Thank you for your guidance today.
Monday, February 23, 2015
The Way Pre-Exists
Scripture: So Moses cried out to the Lord, “Please, God, heal her!” The Lord replied to Moses, “If her father had spit in her face, would she not have been in disgrace for seven days? Confine her outside the camp for seven days; after that she can be brought back.” So Miriam was confined outside the camp for seven days, and the people did not move on till she was brought back. Numbers 12:13-15
Observation: Out of pride, Miriam and Aaron sinned, and God provided both the punishment and a reminder of the way to redemption.
God had already provided the redemption part - the process one must go through when they have a skin disease. Thus, when Miriam has sinned and receives judgment, the solution is there. In addition, Moses' plea to God does not change that solution ... God doesn't provide a healing outside of his law, but rather answers the prayer by reminding Moses, Miriam and Aaron about the law.
Application: I have sometimes wondered why it is that God doesn't take certain actions toward friends and loved ones when I have prayed for them. I find an answer in this verse. God DOES answer my prayer by pointing to his law ... he says "there is Jesus, and all who believe in him will be restored, forgiven of all sin, and enjoy everlasting life."
God isn't going to forgive sin outside of that covenant, but he is always going to forgive sin within that covenant. In this way, when it comes to my non-believing friends, there is only one prayer that matters. That prayer is not "please help them" or "ease their pain" or "heal their addictions" or "mend their broken lives" ... but "help me show them Jesus Christ and put them on a path toward belief."
Prayer: Lord, please help me show others Jesus Christ today, and put them on a path toward belief. As you have reminded me over the last couple of weeks, that is why I am here. May I serve others in your name and for your purposes in their lives. Amen.
Observation: Out of pride, Miriam and Aaron sinned, and God provided both the punishment and a reminder of the way to redemption.
God had already provided the redemption part - the process one must go through when they have a skin disease. Thus, when Miriam has sinned and receives judgment, the solution is there. In addition, Moses' plea to God does not change that solution ... God doesn't provide a healing outside of his law, but rather answers the prayer by reminding Moses, Miriam and Aaron about the law.
Application: I have sometimes wondered why it is that God doesn't take certain actions toward friends and loved ones when I have prayed for them. I find an answer in this verse. God DOES answer my prayer by pointing to his law ... he says "there is Jesus, and all who believe in him will be restored, forgiven of all sin, and enjoy everlasting life."
God isn't going to forgive sin outside of that covenant, but he is always going to forgive sin within that covenant. In this way, when it comes to my non-believing friends, there is only one prayer that matters. That prayer is not "please help them" or "ease their pain" or "heal their addictions" or "mend their broken lives" ... but "help me show them Jesus Christ and put them on a path toward belief."
Prayer: Lord, please help me show others Jesus Christ today, and put them on a path toward belief. As you have reminded me over the last couple of weeks, that is why I am here. May I serve others in your name and for your purposes in their lives. Amen.
Friday, February 20, 2015
I Shall Not Want
The last couple days, I have been blessed to have a lot of "desk time" to work on department financial and resource forecasts. (I know that's an odd definition of "blessed" - stay with me.) So I have been able to put on headphones and listen to my Christian Pandora station continually. (See!!). Then today, Psalm 23 was part of our reading ... something every Sunday School Alum from the 70's had to memorize. It is still so beautiful! I just want to meditate on it today ...
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Thursday, February 19, 2015
The Most Basic Defense
Scripture: And now it is because of my hope in what God has promised our ancestors that I am on trial today. Acts 26:6
Observation: Paul begins his defense with the most basic of all things - the gospel. God promised mankind salvation through a Messiah who would redeem all people ... and he has delivered on that promise.
This is all Paul really says. He goes on to tell his personal story about how he discovered this truth, and then addresses the fact the he does preach this news to everyone as he has been commanded to do. However, there isn't any profound philosophy, surprise revelation, deep theology, or complex belief system. Paul simply says:
-- You all believe in God.
-- You all believe in the promises of the law and the prophets.
-- Well, it happened! Jesus came and fulfilled all prophesy as the Messiah.
-- I am telling people that.
Application: I have two thoughts about this. First ... those four bullets above represent a sound "test" for Christianity or any specific Christian church or denomination. Any church that teaches those four things, is teaching a right message (with of course education about the implications in your life if you do in fact believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior). Any denomination that is adding onto this ... like you can't drink coffee, or only 144,000 people get into heaven, or you can't take medicine ... these things are off. And if they at ALL back away from the fact that Jesus is Messiah, they aren't Christian at all.
Second, this is a evangelical message, but in our current "age" it runs into a problem: The number of non-believers who don't actually believe in God. Some don't believe in any God, some don't believe in a loving God the Creator, and some don't believe in the accuracy of the law and prophets. As a result, the message that "the Messiah came as promised" loses its foothold. This is a serious challenge for the 21st century church, and represents a place where leadership is needed in order to bring awareness of the existence and authority and love of God.
Prayer: Abba, father, I pray for people who refuse to even acknowledge you. I pray for those who will not even acknowledge you exist, or won't accept your nature as a loving and just father who wishes to reconcile us to yourself. Without that, it become so difficult to talk about Jesus. May those far from you, Lord, find you in their hearts anyway, so that there is at least a place where discovery of Jesus can begin. Amen.
Observation: Paul begins his defense with the most basic of all things - the gospel. God promised mankind salvation through a Messiah who would redeem all people ... and he has delivered on that promise.
This is all Paul really says. He goes on to tell his personal story about how he discovered this truth, and then addresses the fact the he does preach this news to everyone as he has been commanded to do. However, there isn't any profound philosophy, surprise revelation, deep theology, or complex belief system. Paul simply says:
-- You all believe in God.
-- You all believe in the promises of the law and the prophets.
-- Well, it happened! Jesus came and fulfilled all prophesy as the Messiah.
-- I am telling people that.
Application: I have two thoughts about this. First ... those four bullets above represent a sound "test" for Christianity or any specific Christian church or denomination. Any church that teaches those four things, is teaching a right message (with of course education about the implications in your life if you do in fact believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior). Any denomination that is adding onto this ... like you can't drink coffee, or only 144,000 people get into heaven, or you can't take medicine ... these things are off. And if they at ALL back away from the fact that Jesus is Messiah, they aren't Christian at all.
Second, this is a evangelical message, but in our current "age" it runs into a problem: The number of non-believers who don't actually believe in God. Some don't believe in any God, some don't believe in a loving God the Creator, and some don't believe in the accuracy of the law and prophets. As a result, the message that "the Messiah came as promised" loses its foothold. This is a serious challenge for the 21st century church, and represents a place where leadership is needed in order to bring awareness of the existence and authority and love of God.
Prayer: Abba, father, I pray for people who refuse to even acknowledge you. I pray for those who will not even acknowledge you exist, or won't accept your nature as a loving and just father who wishes to reconcile us to yourself. Without that, it become so difficult to talk about Jesus. May those far from you, Lord, find you in their hearts anyway, so that there is at least a place where discovery of Jesus can begin. Amen.
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
All About "a Dead Man"
Scripture: When his accusers got up to speak, they did not charge him with any of the crimes I had expected. Instead, they had some points of dispute with him about their own religion and about a dead man named Jesus who Paul claimed was alive. Acts 25:18-19
Observation: This is how we judge Paul's heart as an evangelist - the only charges anyone could bring against him in court was that he believed the Messiah had come to earth and been raised from the dead, fulfilling the prophets and the law. Beyond that, he has done nothing to violate any moral, civic, public law, nor has he wronged any person or organization, nor has he spoken against the government and its leaders.
Application: If Christians - including me - could hold ourselves to such a standard, the enemy would have no foothold to battle against us.
Christianity gets a black eye when we fight against the government, or wrong people through righteous judgment, or even break laws and do immoral things in order to advance our "cause".
We don't have a "cause" that needs advancing ... we have a savior with a message of good news for all people. We don't need to condemn people or attack people over their actions or beliefs or values ... we simply need to tell them about Jesus.
We will STILL get attacked over this - Paul is about to be sent to Rome for a public trial and execution. However, I would LOVE to be attacked over my belief in Jesus and proclamation of his word, rather than for my behavior toward others. Only one of these will Jesus stand with me for on my day of judgment. This is my lesson today: My stance "against" anything and everything needs to only be "faith in Jesus is all you need to for eternal life."
Prayer: May I be unafraid, Jesus, to boldly speak of you only in all circumstances. Amen.
Observation: This is how we judge Paul's heart as an evangelist - the only charges anyone could bring against him in court was that he believed the Messiah had come to earth and been raised from the dead, fulfilling the prophets and the law. Beyond that, he has done nothing to violate any moral, civic, public law, nor has he wronged any person or organization, nor has he spoken against the government and its leaders.
Application: If Christians - including me - could hold ourselves to such a standard, the enemy would have no foothold to battle against us.
Christianity gets a black eye when we fight against the government, or wrong people through righteous judgment, or even break laws and do immoral things in order to advance our "cause".
We don't have a "cause" that needs advancing ... we have a savior with a message of good news for all people. We don't need to condemn people or attack people over their actions or beliefs or values ... we simply need to tell them about Jesus.
We will STILL get attacked over this - Paul is about to be sent to Rome for a public trial and execution. However, I would LOVE to be attacked over my belief in Jesus and proclamation of his word, rather than for my behavior toward others. Only one of these will Jesus stand with me for on my day of judgment. This is my lesson today: My stance "against" anything and everything needs to only be "faith in Jesus is all you need to for eternal life."
Prayer: May I be unafraid, Jesus, to boldly speak of you only in all circumstances. Amen.
Friday, February 13, 2015
Follow the Right Leader
Scripture: Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. Acts 20:30
Observation: Paul is warning the church leaders from Ephesus not that non-believers will challenge the church, but that THEY - the leaders - will corrupt the church. Not all will do this, and it can be overcome, but some of the leaders will draw disciples after them.
This isn't a warning that they will teach the wrong doctrine. Instead, it is that they will pursue a path in which the leaders want followers to follow THEM ... not Jesus.
Application: This is a huge stumbling block for pastors, and one Satan uses ALL them time ... to work the pride of the pastor so they end up with a church that follows them. They then use that power for their own ends. Sometimes they might believe their pursuits are God's pursuits, however it is a slippery slope.
I was reminded of this today when an employee told me about an issue in their past church life ... the story of a pastor who grew so powerful that he ultimately wielded that power in very harmful ways, leading many astray and away from Jesus, even hurting some to the point of turning away entirely from Jesus.
It is SO critical that church leaders establish accountability networks, keep their egos in check, and ensure their work always leads others to Jesus, not to them.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for all the pastors at Evergreen - Phil, Odyn, Laurie, Caleb, Jaziel, Betty. It is easy for any person in a position of authority to fall victim to the temptation of self-worship. For most, the harm is non-spiritual and limited, however for pastors the harm can be wide-spread and eternal. Please protect these men and women from temptation, and keep them all focused on you as the center and head of the church.
Observation: Paul is warning the church leaders from Ephesus not that non-believers will challenge the church, but that THEY - the leaders - will corrupt the church. Not all will do this, and it can be overcome, but some of the leaders will draw disciples after them.
This isn't a warning that they will teach the wrong doctrine. Instead, it is that they will pursue a path in which the leaders want followers to follow THEM ... not Jesus.
Application: This is a huge stumbling block for pastors, and one Satan uses ALL them time ... to work the pride of the pastor so they end up with a church that follows them. They then use that power for their own ends. Sometimes they might believe their pursuits are God's pursuits, however it is a slippery slope.
I was reminded of this today when an employee told me about an issue in their past church life ... the story of a pastor who grew so powerful that he ultimately wielded that power in very harmful ways, leading many astray and away from Jesus, even hurting some to the point of turning away entirely from Jesus.
It is SO critical that church leaders establish accountability networks, keep their egos in check, and ensure their work always leads others to Jesus, not to them.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for all the pastors at Evergreen - Phil, Odyn, Laurie, Caleb, Jaziel, Betty. It is easy for any person in a position of authority to fall victim to the temptation of self-worship. For most, the harm is non-spiritual and limited, however for pastors the harm can be wide-spread and eternal. Please protect these men and women from temptation, and keep them all focused on you as the center and head of the church.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Do Not Do as They Do
Scripture: You must not do as they do in Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not do as they do in the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. Do not follow their practices. You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the Lord your God. Leviticus 18:3-4
Observation: From the beginning, God has been clear about his expectations for believers: You are to be different. As Paul put it in Romans, "Do not conform to the ways of this world, but be transformed."
Believers are always to remember this from the very beginning of the Jews with Moses. Believers do not do what society does. Instead, they do what God tells them to do. And why? Because ... the Lord is our God.
Application: Where am I conforming to the ways of the world right now? In what parts of my life am I "normalizing" myself in society in a manner that is not in alignment with the instructions of Jesus Christ?
I continue to dwell on Romans 12 as a teaching for my life. I am to be a living sacrifice. That means giving up those elements of my life that are not of God, and doing only what he wants of me.
My anger and stress is a significant area where I am failing at this. I am expected to bring a certain level of intensity to my job, and to care about certain things that are effectively specific to societal norms. I am expected to worry about those things, and to dwell on them in order to solve problems. This isn't just about doing a good job to fulfill my 'holy vocation', but about a society expectation.
What I DON'T do is surrender these cares to God, to pray about them, and entrust God to support me on my way through them. Jesus tells us to surrender our cares to him, and I do not do that. This is a first and easy way I can not be like the "Canaanites" around me, but instead can demonstrate a different model of life ... and become a light of Jesus to those around me.
Prayer: Lord, I know I am blessed to be a blessing. So today, I trust that blessing and surrender to you my concerns and stress of work. I trust you to give me words to coach staff and assist them. I will remember that deadlines are man-made constraints on my life, and things will be completed in your time, by your will, for your purposes ... which even includes IT projects. I will follow your commands, because you are my Lord, and I believe in and trust your love. Amen.
Observation: From the beginning, God has been clear about his expectations for believers: You are to be different. As Paul put it in Romans, "Do not conform to the ways of this world, but be transformed."
Believers are always to remember this from the very beginning of the Jews with Moses. Believers do not do what society does. Instead, they do what God tells them to do. And why? Because ... the Lord is our God.
Application: Where am I conforming to the ways of the world right now? In what parts of my life am I "normalizing" myself in society in a manner that is not in alignment with the instructions of Jesus Christ?
I continue to dwell on Romans 12 as a teaching for my life. I am to be a living sacrifice. That means giving up those elements of my life that are not of God, and doing only what he wants of me.
My anger and stress is a significant area where I am failing at this. I am expected to bring a certain level of intensity to my job, and to care about certain things that are effectively specific to societal norms. I am expected to worry about those things, and to dwell on them in order to solve problems. This isn't just about doing a good job to fulfill my 'holy vocation', but about a society expectation.
What I DON'T do is surrender these cares to God, to pray about them, and entrust God to support me on my way through them. Jesus tells us to surrender our cares to him, and I do not do that. This is a first and easy way I can not be like the "Canaanites" around me, but instead can demonstrate a different model of life ... and become a light of Jesus to those around me.
Prayer: Lord, I know I am blessed to be a blessing. So today, I trust that blessing and surrender to you my concerns and stress of work. I trust you to give me words to coach staff and assist them. I will remember that deadlines are man-made constraints on my life, and things will be completed in your time, by your will, for your purposes ... which even includes IT projects. I will follow your commands, because you are my Lord, and I believe in and trust your love. Amen.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Different Message, Always the Same
Scripture: God did this [creation of man] so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. Acts 17:27
Observation: Paul is talking to Greek philosophers who have asked him to educate them. These are learned men seeking intellectual reason. So Paul does two things here:
1) He stays exactly on message - God loves us and wants a relationship with us (and so gave his son to us).
2) He doesn't use those words - instead he reasons that God, while near to us, wishes for men to seek him and find him through analysis and reason.
Application: At all times, when discussing God, I must always remain true to the truth about God ... that he loves us and seeks a relationship with us through our faith in Jesus. However, there are MANY ways to say this in a manner that appeals to others. For some, the message will be love, compassion, caring. For others, it will be personal discovery. For some, reason and intellect.
Prayer: Lord, many are seeking you, yet they cannot find you because of the way we present you. Please give your people wisdom, as you did with Paul, to always advance the name of Jesus.
Observation: Paul is talking to Greek philosophers who have asked him to educate them. These are learned men seeking intellectual reason. So Paul does two things here:
1) He stays exactly on message - God loves us and wants a relationship with us (and so gave his son to us).
2) He doesn't use those words - instead he reasons that God, while near to us, wishes for men to seek him and find him through analysis and reason.
Application: At all times, when discussing God, I must always remain true to the truth about God ... that he loves us and seeks a relationship with us through our faith in Jesus. However, there are MANY ways to say this in a manner that appeals to others. For some, the message will be love, compassion, caring. For others, it will be personal discovery. For some, reason and intellect.
Prayer: Lord, many are seeking you, yet they cannot find you because of the way we present you. Please give your people wisdom, as you did with Paul, to always advance the name of Jesus.
Monday, February 9, 2015
East to West
Over the last few days, I have been thinking too often about my "old self" in ways that make me recall them as good times. This is the temptation of Satan - to separate earthly thoughts from heavenly realization. I am so happy I am no longer the man I was - I never want to return, and I don't even want to remember those times fondly.
Friday, February 6, 2015
Speaking Gently
Scripture: From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem. Acts 13:13
Observation: This might be one of the great understated sentences in history. Something happened between John-Mark and Paul that was so significant that Paul considered Mark's departure as abandonment - effectively a treasonous act. He refused to work with Mark for DECADES (though finally forgiving him). At one time, he even refused to work with anyone who dared consider it okay to work with Mark.
This is Mark we're talking about ... writer of the Gospel of Mark; first-hand follower of Jesus; personal witness of Jesus' arrest; prominent member of the church in Jerusalem; companion of Peter.
So what happened? Luke doesn't care. All he says here is the facts: John-Mark left them and returned to Jerusalem. 'Nuff said.
Application: Luke is modeling something I desperately need to learn ... Grace in speaking about others. Guaranteed Luke knows what happened. As a friend of Paul's, he probably heard the story dozens of times. However, he isn't going to talk about it.
Doing so could only sully Mark's reputation, and Mark is a brother in Christ. Tearing down another Christian has always served Satan's purposes in discrediting the Church itself in the eyes of non believers. So Luke shows grace toward Mark, allowing him to simply depart from the pages of Acts.
I never show this kind of grace. I am SO quick to express my dissatisfaction and disagreement with others. I speak poorly of their actions when they make a mistake, and do so openly. I show no grace, no love, no kindness, no gentleness, no patience.
Luke knows Mark did something, but he ain't gonna talk about it. I need to learn to shut up, show grace, and allow others to be defined by their love of Jesus rather than my perception that the erred.
Prayer: Lord, this is tied to my shortcoming in showing love to others. It is the command Jesus added for us - love one another. If I loved others, I wouldn't be quick to speak of their shortcomings ... I wouldn't even acknowledge they have shortcomings. I do pray that you continue to guide me and correct me in this issue, so I may learn love, and thus exhibit grace toward others. Amen.
Observation: This might be one of the great understated sentences in history. Something happened between John-Mark and Paul that was so significant that Paul considered Mark's departure as abandonment - effectively a treasonous act. He refused to work with Mark for DECADES (though finally forgiving him). At one time, he even refused to work with anyone who dared consider it okay to work with Mark.
This is Mark we're talking about ... writer of the Gospel of Mark; first-hand follower of Jesus; personal witness of Jesus' arrest; prominent member of the church in Jerusalem; companion of Peter.
So what happened? Luke doesn't care. All he says here is the facts: John-Mark left them and returned to Jerusalem. 'Nuff said.
Application: Luke is modeling something I desperately need to learn ... Grace in speaking about others. Guaranteed Luke knows what happened. As a friend of Paul's, he probably heard the story dozens of times. However, he isn't going to talk about it.
Doing so could only sully Mark's reputation, and Mark is a brother in Christ. Tearing down another Christian has always served Satan's purposes in discrediting the Church itself in the eyes of non believers. So Luke shows grace toward Mark, allowing him to simply depart from the pages of Acts.
I never show this kind of grace. I am SO quick to express my dissatisfaction and disagreement with others. I speak poorly of their actions when they make a mistake, and do so openly. I show no grace, no love, no kindness, no gentleness, no patience.
Luke knows Mark did something, but he ain't gonna talk about it. I need to learn to shut up, show grace, and allow others to be defined by their love of Jesus rather than my perception that the erred.
Prayer: Lord, this is tied to my shortcoming in showing love to others. It is the command Jesus added for us - love one another. If I loved others, I wouldn't be quick to speak of their shortcomings ... I wouldn't even acknowledge they have shortcomings. I do pray that you continue to guide me and correct me in this issue, so I may learn love, and thus exhibit grace toward others. Amen.
Thursday, February 5, 2015
On Whom do I Focus?
Scripture: When this had dawned on him, he [Peter] went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. Acts 12:12
Observation: That is Peter, previously known as Simon, who two chapters ago was staying with Simon the Tanner, neither of whom is Simon the Zealot. And this is not Mary the mother of Jesus, nor Mary Magdalene, nor Mary the sister of Martha, but Mary the mother of John ... not John the brother of James (who isn't James the son of Alphaeus nor James the bother of Jude also called Judas ... who isn't Judas Iscariot), but John also called Mark.
I mean ... would it have been too much to ask if the church founders had had just a little more diversity in their names?? Did we have to try to cram ~30 important people into what seems like ~7 first names?
I know it isn't quite that bad, but it certainly doesn't help the confusion factor. Then again, maybe the point is ...
Application: God may not want us to dwell on certain individuals, but on the deeds and good works and strong faith of believers. If we get too caught up trying to admire John, or Mark, or Paul, or Peter, or Mary, perhaps we end up focusing on the wrong person ... we end up focusing on a person instead of Jesus, and those things that Jesus is actually doing through the people.
If I get confused over something like, "wait, James is dead, so why is Peter telling the others to 'tell James' something?", then I'm probably missing the point ... the point is that, through the continuous prayer of the church, Peter was miraculous saved from a prison death sentence, and Herod (who BTW was Herod Agrippa NOT Herod Antipas who tried Jesus) was then punished by death. When I focus on an earthly "who is doing it", I lose sight of the heavenly "what God is doing".
Prayer: We are indebted to the early church, who did great things by their faith in Jesus. However, please help me to always remember that it was Jesus who did those things through them - the church is your "plan A" for redeeming the world, and there is no "plan B". We are here to do your work, not to do our work and hope you bless it. May I join you where you are, and focus on you.
Observation: That is Peter, previously known as Simon, who two chapters ago was staying with Simon the Tanner, neither of whom is Simon the Zealot. And this is not Mary the mother of Jesus, nor Mary Magdalene, nor Mary the sister of Martha, but Mary the mother of John ... not John the brother of James (who isn't James the son of Alphaeus nor James the bother of Jude also called Judas ... who isn't Judas Iscariot), but John also called Mark.
I mean ... would it have been too much to ask if the church founders had had just a little more diversity in their names?? Did we have to try to cram ~30 important people into what seems like ~7 first names?
I know it isn't quite that bad, but it certainly doesn't help the confusion factor. Then again, maybe the point is ...
Application: God may not want us to dwell on certain individuals, but on the deeds and good works and strong faith of believers. If we get too caught up trying to admire John, or Mark, or Paul, or Peter, or Mary, perhaps we end up focusing on the wrong person ... we end up focusing on a person instead of Jesus, and those things that Jesus is actually doing through the people.
If I get confused over something like, "wait, James is dead, so why is Peter telling the others to 'tell James' something?", then I'm probably missing the point ... the point is that, through the continuous prayer of the church, Peter was miraculous saved from a prison death sentence, and Herod (who BTW was Herod Agrippa NOT Herod Antipas who tried Jesus) was then punished by death. When I focus on an earthly "who is doing it", I lose sight of the heavenly "what God is doing".
Prayer: We are indebted to the early church, who did great things by their faith in Jesus. However, please help me to always remember that it was Jesus who did those things through them - the church is your "plan A" for redeeming the world, and there is no "plan B". We are here to do your work, not to do our work and hope you bless it. May I join you where you are, and focus on you.
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Favorite Defined
Scripture: Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right. Acts 10:34-35
Observation: I have a LOT to say about this verse, but it is far too long and complex. Therefore, I am skipping the full SOAP model today and wish to instead meditate on the following:
Do not fret because of those who are evil
or be envious of those who do wrong;
for like the grass they will soon wither,
like green plants they will soon die away.
Psalm 37:1-9
Observation: I have a LOT to say about this verse, but it is far too long and complex. Therefore, I am skipping the full SOAP model today and wish to instead meditate on the following:
Do not fret because of those who are evil
or be envious of those who do wrong;
for like the grass they will soon wither,
like green plants they will soon die away.
Trust in the Lord and do good;
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the Lord;
trust in him and he will do this:
He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn,
your vindication like the noonday sun.
trust in him and he will do this:
He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn,
your vindication like the noonday sun.
Be still before the Lord
and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when people succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes.
and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when people succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Refrain from anger and turn from wrath;
do not fret—it leads only to evil.
For those who are evil will be destroyed,
but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.
do not fret—it leads only to evil.
For those who are evil will be destroyed,
but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.
Psalm 37:1-9
Monday, February 2, 2015
Recognizing Jesus
Scripture: As he [Saul] neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" "Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked. Acts 9:3-5
Observation: There is something amazing about Saul's question. Saul is a learned man of God - an educated Jew, a Pharisee and close to the Sadducees. Yet when a supernatural voice calls out to him from heaven, he immediately realizes ... he has no idea who this is.
Application: This fact is at the center of the reality of Jesus - even non-believers recognize him when they see him. Saul was so convinced that those who believed in Jesus were wrong that he was hunting them down. Yet, he immediately recognized that Jesus - a powerful lord he did not know - was addressing him. This voice wasn't the God he 'knew', but a real person with heavenly authority.
Saul was specially selected by Jesus - non-believers today should not expect this sort of direct confrontation from Jesus in order to be converted. However, non-believers are exposed to Jesus every day, and every once in a while ... they know it. Their eternity depends on how they choose to process and respond to that exposure.
In addition, my discipleship is tied to my active response to Jesus as well. How often do I see Jesus acting in a situation, and either ignore it, or accept it casually, or maybe thank God and move along. Instead, I need to begin responding to Jesus. I need to acknowledge him, then join with him, then ensure everyone else sees him too, then talk about him.
If non-believers can recognize Jesus, I should be willing to respond to Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, I know exactly where you have acted around me. I am willing to join you there, and acknowledge you to others through actions and words. Here I am. Amen.
Observation: There is something amazing about Saul's question. Saul is a learned man of God - an educated Jew, a Pharisee and close to the Sadducees. Yet when a supernatural voice calls out to him from heaven, he immediately realizes ... he has no idea who this is.
Application: This fact is at the center of the reality of Jesus - even non-believers recognize him when they see him. Saul was so convinced that those who believed in Jesus were wrong that he was hunting them down. Yet, he immediately recognized that Jesus - a powerful lord he did not know - was addressing him. This voice wasn't the God he 'knew', but a real person with heavenly authority.
Saul was specially selected by Jesus - non-believers today should not expect this sort of direct confrontation from Jesus in order to be converted. However, non-believers are exposed to Jesus every day, and every once in a while ... they know it. Their eternity depends on how they choose to process and respond to that exposure.
In addition, my discipleship is tied to my active response to Jesus as well. How often do I see Jesus acting in a situation, and either ignore it, or accept it casually, or maybe thank God and move along. Instead, I need to begin responding to Jesus. I need to acknowledge him, then join with him, then ensure everyone else sees him too, then talk about him.
If non-believers can recognize Jesus, I should be willing to respond to Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, I know exactly where you have acted around me. I am willing to join you there, and acknowledge you to others through actions and words. Here I am. Amen.
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