Scripture: And a woman in the town who was a sinner found out that Jesus was reclining at the table in the Pharisee’s house. She brought an alabaster jar of fragrant oil and stood behind Him at His feet, weeping, and began to wash His feet with her tears. She wiped His feet with the hair of her head, kissing them and anointing them with the fragrant oil. Luke 7:37-38
Observation: I have thought and discussed this before ... alabaster is primarily from two small towns, one in Spain, and one a small hill town in modern Tuscany, Italy - Volterra. I have been to Volterra, and own an alabaster candle votive and a salt and pepper set from there. It is very possible that this woman's jar was from there.
Everything about this woman made an bold impression on everyone in the room. The host notices her for her for the fact that she is a sinner - he sees the reputation of her past behavior. The disciples notice her for her behavior - they see her weeping and washing Jesus' feet. The narrator sees her first for her possessions - he notices the jar as the only descriptive element about her ever mentioned.
However, Jesus notices her faith - he sees a person seeking love and forgiveness from God. Jesus both allows her to proceed with her request, and then grants that request, because he doesn't see her anything that the others perceive as relevant, but rather he sees a heart dying to the world if only God could overlook the past.
Application: What do people see when they look at me? They probably see ... some kind of earthly success, maybe a funny guy, maybe a strict and driven boss. They could even see alabaster possessions. What I fail to show is my faith.
I trust Jesus sees my faith, but I need to exhibit it more. It should be something that others see and even experience. It should be humble yet bold, focused on Jesus, and dedicating myself and my possessions to him. I know Jesus sees my tears when I worship and pray, often privately in my car, but this should be something I am comfortable expressing more and more.
Prayer: Lord, may my faith be evident to you first, and to everyone else as well. I have been forgiven for a great deal, and I do love you a great deal. Daily, you see my heart soften. I seek the boldness of this woman, who gladly and faithfully served you in a public and visible way, regardless of the observations of others. Amen.
Thursday, March 29, 2018
Tuesday, March 27, 2018
Obeying the Stipulations
Scripture: When he got up in the morning, Balaam saddled his donkey and went with the officials of Moab. But God was incensed that Balaam was going, and the Angel of the Lord took His stand on the path to oppose him ... The Angel of the Lord asked him, "Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? Look, I came out to oppose you, because what you are doing is evil in My sight." Numbers 22:21-22a,32
Observation: God tells Balaam to go with the men from Balak, and then immediately is "incensed" that he is going, sends an angel to stop him, and even threatens to kill him for doing what is evil. This is clearly one of those situations where the Bible doesn't provide all the details, but believes it has provided enough so the read - in context - can figure out what is taking place.
Balaam is a hired gun, but also believes in God. This is why he initially refuses to go. However, when God then permits him to go, in his heart he ignores the stipulation of the mission ... Balaam departs with the attitude that he is now permitted to go earn the fee promised by Balak. Instead, God is sending Balaam on HIS mission of blessing Israel, not on Balak's hired job of cursing Israel. For this reason, Balaam's going is evil.
Application: When we pray to God for direction, he will often tell us where to go, what to do, and what to say. Many consider 'going' the hard part. However, Balaam proves that going is just the first part ... obedience to the added instructions is often more difficult and even contrary to our own life's work.
It was evil for Balaam to go where God was sending on his own terms. He also needed to be ready to do and say what God was sending him for. Likewise, me going places - to my work, to Alpha, or wherever - isn't the completion of God's mission, it is the first step. I must also do what God wishes me to do, and say what he places in my mouth and in my heart. This produces rewards - including both joy and life itself - beyond any payment for a task.
Prayer: Lord, you reveal yourself is so many ways. May I be prepared to not only obey your instructions, but also your stipulations. May I follow you when you tell me go, and also obey you when you tell me to do and speak. Amen.
Observation: God tells Balaam to go with the men from Balak, and then immediately is "incensed" that he is going, sends an angel to stop him, and even threatens to kill him for doing what is evil. This is clearly one of those situations where the Bible doesn't provide all the details, but believes it has provided enough so the read - in context - can figure out what is taking place.
Balaam is a hired gun, but also believes in God. This is why he initially refuses to go. However, when God then permits him to go, in his heart he ignores the stipulation of the mission ... Balaam departs with the attitude that he is now permitted to go earn the fee promised by Balak. Instead, God is sending Balaam on HIS mission of blessing Israel, not on Balak's hired job of cursing Israel. For this reason, Balaam's going is evil.
Application: When we pray to God for direction, he will often tell us where to go, what to do, and what to say. Many consider 'going' the hard part. However, Balaam proves that going is just the first part ... obedience to the added instructions is often more difficult and even contrary to our own life's work.
It was evil for Balaam to go where God was sending on his own terms. He also needed to be ready to do and say what God was sending him for. Likewise, me going places - to my work, to Alpha, or wherever - isn't the completion of God's mission, it is the first step. I must also do what God wishes me to do, and say what he places in my mouth and in my heart. This produces rewards - including both joy and life itself - beyond any payment for a task.
Prayer: Lord, you reveal yourself is so many ways. May I be prepared to not only obey your instructions, but also your stipulations. May I follow you when you tell me go, and also obey you when you tell me to do and speak. Amen.
Monday, March 26, 2018
Listening to God First and Foremost
Scripture: The elders of Moab and Midian departed with fees for divination in hand. They came to Balaam and reported Balak’s words to him. He said to them, “Spend the night here, and I will give you the answer the Lord tells me.” So the officials of Moab stayed with Balaam. Numbers 22:7-8
Observation: There is a misunderstanding about the nature of Balaam, even at the beginning. Balak has sent men to Balaam to ask him to come curse the Israelites. Balak sent "fees for divination" and effectively want to hire him as a magician able to curse others at will. However, Balaam is a believer in Yahweh. He is in close communion with the Lord, to the point that he trusts God will reveal to him in one night what action to take ... and God does exactly that, appearing to him in a conversation that very night. Balaam will not take any action without God's approval.
Application: Balaam is a complicated person. He is part wild necromancer, part prophet, part hired gun. He speaks with God, but cannot see angels. He owns a talking donkey (well ... okay ... God communicates a lesson through the donkey). He will soon pronounce the mission of the Messiah as a blessing over Israel, despite himself being a descendent of some other middle eastern ethnicity (maybe a Moabite, maybe something else closer to the Chaldeans).
All that said, Balaam trusts in the Lord. He listens and obeys. This is an example to us all. We may have a lot of strange characteristics in our lives, and strange twists in our personal story, but the primary responsibility of any faithful person is to listen to God and obey his instructions. In doing so, we can play a part in God's great purpose and plan.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your word yesterday. It meant a great deal to others, but it meant a great deal to me to be used by you. Thank you for loving me enough to do so. May I listen to you more and more every day. Amen.
Observation: There is a misunderstanding about the nature of Balaam, even at the beginning. Balak has sent men to Balaam to ask him to come curse the Israelites. Balak sent "fees for divination" and effectively want to hire him as a magician able to curse others at will. However, Balaam is a believer in Yahweh. He is in close communion with the Lord, to the point that he trusts God will reveal to him in one night what action to take ... and God does exactly that, appearing to him in a conversation that very night. Balaam will not take any action without God's approval.
Application: Balaam is a complicated person. He is part wild necromancer, part prophet, part hired gun. He speaks with God, but cannot see angels. He owns a talking donkey (well ... okay ... God communicates a lesson through the donkey). He will soon pronounce the mission of the Messiah as a blessing over Israel, despite himself being a descendent of some other middle eastern ethnicity (maybe a Moabite, maybe something else closer to the Chaldeans).
All that said, Balaam trusts in the Lord. He listens and obeys. This is an example to us all. We may have a lot of strange characteristics in our lives, and strange twists in our personal story, but the primary responsibility of any faithful person is to listen to God and obey his instructions. In doing so, we can play a part in God's great purpose and plan.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your word yesterday. It meant a great deal to others, but it meant a great deal to me to be used by you. Thank you for loving me enough to do so. May I listen to you more and more every day. Amen.
Thursday, March 22, 2018
They Have Heard
Scripture: But Moses replied to the Lord, "The Egyptians will hear about it, for by Your strength You brought up this people from them. They will tell it to the inhabitants of this land. They have heard that You, Lord, are among these people, how You, Lord, are seen face to face, how Your cloud stands over them, and how You go before them in a pillar of cloud by day and in a pillar of fire by night. If You kill this people with a single blow, the nations that have heard of Your fame will declare, 'Since the Lord wasn’t able to bring this people into the land He swore to give them, He has slaughtered them in the wilderness.'" Numbers 14:13-16
Observation: As a result of the final rebellion of Israel - refusal to enter the promised land - God declares his intent to destroy them. However, Moses talks him out of it, and his appeal is this ... other people throughout the entire land of heard of God's greatness, strength, actions, and love. If they die now, those people will doubt God's power to deliver the people, and only believe in his power to destroy. This, of course, wouldn't be because the Lord is capable, but because of Israel's lack of faith and the resulting judgment of a God offended by that unfaithful response.
This scenario echoes today. Especially in the U.S., non-believers have heard of God, they have even heard of his power and greatness, and they might even have witnessed it or at least been told of situations where others did. Yet they see Christians ... struggle, sin, complain, lament, and fail in life, and thus arrive at the conclusion that there is no benefit to faith because the Lord doesn't deliver his people. Maybe he harms them, or at least sits back and does nothing while they struggle, but he certainly doesn't deliver.
Application: I know I have been delivered by Yahweh ... he provides for me daily, and he provided ultimate redemption through Jesus. However, just like everyone else, my struggles may witness against that IF I promote those struggles and fail to promote my salvation.
Others have heard about God. They have heard of his greatness, faithfulness, love, and power. They have heard he created all things and provides all things. They just don't see any benefit in exploring, understanding, and thus believing that.
Prayer: Lord, again, may my complaints not exist, for I know your love and provision in my life. I would like all Christians become not just witnesses, but examples of you, by talking more about how your love has blessed us, and a lot less about how this earthly realm weighs upon us. Amen.
Observation: As a result of the final rebellion of Israel - refusal to enter the promised land - God declares his intent to destroy them. However, Moses talks him out of it, and his appeal is this ... other people throughout the entire land of heard of God's greatness, strength, actions, and love. If they die now, those people will doubt God's power to deliver the people, and only believe in his power to destroy. This, of course, wouldn't be because the Lord is capable, but because of Israel's lack of faith and the resulting judgment of a God offended by that unfaithful response.
This scenario echoes today. Especially in the U.S., non-believers have heard of God, they have even heard of his power and greatness, and they might even have witnessed it or at least been told of situations where others did. Yet they see Christians ... struggle, sin, complain, lament, and fail in life, and thus arrive at the conclusion that there is no benefit to faith because the Lord doesn't deliver his people. Maybe he harms them, or at least sits back and does nothing while they struggle, but he certainly doesn't deliver.
Application: I know I have been delivered by Yahweh ... he provides for me daily, and he provided ultimate redemption through Jesus. However, just like everyone else, my struggles may witness against that IF I promote those struggles and fail to promote my salvation.
Others have heard about God. They have heard of his greatness, faithfulness, love, and power. They have heard he created all things and provides all things. They just don't see any benefit in exploring, understanding, and thus believing that.
Prayer: Lord, again, may my complaints not exist, for I know your love and provision in my life. I would like all Christians become not just witnesses, but examples of you, by talking more about how your love has blessed us, and a lot less about how this earthly realm weighs upon us. Amen.
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
Finding Something to Complain About
Scripture: Then Jesus returned from the Jordan, full of the Holy Spirit, and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for 40 days to be tempted by the Devil. He ate nothing during those days, and when they were over, He was hungry. The Devil said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread." But Jesus answered him, "It is written: Man must not live on bread alone." Luke 4:1-4
Observation: As commented previously, over and over again the Israelites in the wilderness complained about their food situation (Numbers 11), despite the fact they were being miraculously fed every day. However, after 40 days without food, Jesus actively resists the temptation to eat.
This is, of course, a matter of attitude. The Israelites didn't want food - they had manna, and they had enough herds of goats and cattle. They had grains to make bread. They had eaten their first Passover meal, and had been performing sacrifices. They just wanted to complain against God. They wanted to whine about life in the wilderness, and they chose food - explicitly a variety of food with complementary herbs and vegetables - as their venue for complaint.
Jesus spends 40 days not eating, and when reminded that he has the power to command the universe and create his own food, he resists. Jesus resists explicitly because he has the word of God with him. He has faith and trust. However, mostly he has a right relationship with God whereby he is not going to grumble about petty issues or unknown future conditions, for he knows he will be cared for and he understands what blessing really looks like. Blessing doesn't look like a field of quail, it looks like time in the presence of God and basking in his love.
Application: Today, I will complain about something stupid. I will. It might be my back pain, or the imperfect height of a conference room chair, or some equally trivial matter that has no baring or meaning in the world. I'll complain almost absent-mindedly, simply because I want things different. When I do, I have lost sight of the fact that placing my mental energy to meditating on the word of God would bring me closer to God in relationship, and thus create such a better life for me that nothing else would matter.
Time spent complaining is time not spent thanking. Words grumbled are not words prayed. Thoughts of frustration are not thoughts of hope and joy. My time, words, and thoughts should be used more productively.
Prayer: Lord, may I not be petty in my words and thoughts. In the scope of the world, I should have no complaints, and I should be overflowing with praise and thanks for your love, and for the salvation and grace of Jesus. I seek to keep proper focus, placing your love in front of any earthly matter of no importance. Amen.
Observation: As commented previously, over and over again the Israelites in the wilderness complained about their food situation (Numbers 11), despite the fact they were being miraculously fed every day. However, after 40 days without food, Jesus actively resists the temptation to eat.
This is, of course, a matter of attitude. The Israelites didn't want food - they had manna, and they had enough herds of goats and cattle. They had grains to make bread. They had eaten their first Passover meal, and had been performing sacrifices. They just wanted to complain against God. They wanted to whine about life in the wilderness, and they chose food - explicitly a variety of food with complementary herbs and vegetables - as their venue for complaint.
Jesus spends 40 days not eating, and when reminded that he has the power to command the universe and create his own food, he resists. Jesus resists explicitly because he has the word of God with him. He has faith and trust. However, mostly he has a right relationship with God whereby he is not going to grumble about petty issues or unknown future conditions, for he knows he will be cared for and he understands what blessing really looks like. Blessing doesn't look like a field of quail, it looks like time in the presence of God and basking in his love.
Application: Today, I will complain about something stupid. I will. It might be my back pain, or the imperfect height of a conference room chair, or some equally trivial matter that has no baring or meaning in the world. I'll complain almost absent-mindedly, simply because I want things different. When I do, I have lost sight of the fact that placing my mental energy to meditating on the word of God would bring me closer to God in relationship, and thus create such a better life for me that nothing else would matter.
Time spent complaining is time not spent thanking. Words grumbled are not words prayed. Thoughts of frustration are not thoughts of hope and joy. My time, words, and thoughts should be used more productively.
Prayer: Lord, may I not be petty in my words and thoughts. In the scope of the world, I should have no complaints, and I should be overflowing with praise and thanks for your love, and for the salvation and grace of Jesus. I seek to keep proper focus, placing your love in front of any earthly matter of no importance. Amen.
Tuesday, March 20, 2018
Remembering God's Very Different Timing
Scripture: Now the people began complaining openly before the Lord about hardship. When the Lord heard, His anger burned, and fire from the Lord blazed among them and consumed the outskirts of the camp. Then the people cried out to Moses, and he prayed to the Lord, and the fire died down. Number 11:1-2
Observation: Israel spent one year learning about God's laws and practices, celebrated their first true Passover, then set out following the Lord ... and within one more month begin complaining. In response, God takes direct action but only in a threatening manner - he sets a fire around the camp as a warning.
This will of course be a trend. Israel will be taught how to obey and follow the Lord, they will comply with a ceremony, and then they will complain, resist, and rebel. God will correct them, they will seek forgiveness, and peace will return ... for another short time only.
Application: I was thinking about being patient in the Lord the other day, and realized that my perspective of patience probably is not the same as God's. In fact, it is probably off by a LOT. I likely think in terms of days or months about waiting for things that God may take years or decades to deliver. I have been patient about some of those things, and frustrated and impatient about others.
Israel was impatient. They want a formula that said something like, "we do a ceremony, we pack of the camp, and receive the promised land ... seems like one week, max." God was thinking more like, "you learn the ceremonial practices as a way of creating fellowship with me, we get to commune for a while, and the promised land ain't going anywhere so we'll get there some day ... let's take a couple years."
I have prayed for things and expected them to happen in a day or a week, max. I have then seem them occur a couple years later. And I was frustrated and confused in between. Not that I think God will threaten me with fire (though he could), but I know I need to understand patience. I can pray, and then patiently wait. During that waiting, I can trust that God is working out the end result in his timing, in a perfect manner.
Prayer: Lord, I do pray for the lost and hurting. I see them at Alpha, and I see them much further away from you at work. I am not sure what your timing will be for them, but I know you love them and strive to reach them in your perfect time and place in their lives. I will continue to pray, and continue to go into the harvest field as you lead me. Amen.
Observation: Israel spent one year learning about God's laws and practices, celebrated their first true Passover, then set out following the Lord ... and within one more month begin complaining. In response, God takes direct action but only in a threatening manner - he sets a fire around the camp as a warning.
This will of course be a trend. Israel will be taught how to obey and follow the Lord, they will comply with a ceremony, and then they will complain, resist, and rebel. God will correct them, they will seek forgiveness, and peace will return ... for another short time only.
Application: I was thinking about being patient in the Lord the other day, and realized that my perspective of patience probably is not the same as God's. In fact, it is probably off by a LOT. I likely think in terms of days or months about waiting for things that God may take years or decades to deliver. I have been patient about some of those things, and frustrated and impatient about others.
Israel was impatient. They want a formula that said something like, "we do a ceremony, we pack of the camp, and receive the promised land ... seems like one week, max." God was thinking more like, "you learn the ceremonial practices as a way of creating fellowship with me, we get to commune for a while, and the promised land ain't going anywhere so we'll get there some day ... let's take a couple years."
I have prayed for things and expected them to happen in a day or a week, max. I have then seem them occur a couple years later. And I was frustrated and confused in between. Not that I think God will threaten me with fire (though he could), but I know I need to understand patience. I can pray, and then patiently wait. During that waiting, I can trust that God is working out the end result in his timing, in a perfect manner.
Prayer: Lord, I do pray for the lost and hurting. I see them at Alpha, and I see them much further away from you at work. I am not sure what your timing will be for them, but I know you love them and strive to reach them in your perfect time and place in their lives. I will continue to pray, and continue to go into the harvest field as you lead me. Amen.
Monday, March 19, 2018
So Will I
If the stars were made to worship ... If creation sings your praises ... If it all reveals your nature ... If creation still obeys you ... If the mountains bow in reverence ... If the oceans roar your greatness ... If everything exists to lift you high ... If the wind goes where you send it ... If the rocks cry out in silence ... If you left the grave behind you ... If you gladly chose surrender ... If you gave your life to love them ...
... so will I.
... so will I.
Thursday, March 15, 2018
The God of Logic
Scripture: The Lord spoke to Moses: "See, I have taken the Levites from the Israelites in place of every firstborn Israelite from the womb. The Levites belong to Me, because every firstborn belongs to Me. At the time I struck down every firstborn in the land of Egypt, I consecrated every firstborn in Israel to Myself, both man and animal. They are Mine; I am Yahweh." Numbers 3:11-13
Observation: To complete the census of the tribes, Moses is to count the Levites. Instead of just counting the military, this time he is to count all males, and compare them to the number of firstborn males in all the rest of Israel, as they are to take the place of all those other males - they are to redeem the debt owed to God when he spared the firstborn of Israel by taking their place in consecrated and special service to God.
It is in this manner that God improves both the lives of Israel, and their service and worship to the Lord. Declaring that all first born males must become priests would have created chaos, as every family would have been impacted, and organizing and training those serving would be difficult. Effectively, God 'centralized the function' into the tribe of Levi. It is this one tribe that will serve, becoming trained as priests and caretakers and craftsmen. The result will be superior service, superior worship, superior coordination. At the same time the family structure of all of Israel will be maintained, creating superior happiness, superior love, superior prosperity.
Application: I do not understand God's ways ... I do not understand why God required redemption and ownership of the firstborn of Israel in the first place. However, I appreciate his methods. God is a strategist, a mathematician, an astronomer, a chemist, a poet, a physicist, an artist. God designs complex biological structures and chemical compounds, and paints awe inspiring sunrises. He calculated the speed of light and the force of gravity, and invented the harmonizing of music. And when God declared the service of the firstborn of Israel, he designed a plan that maximized the value of that requirement.
I often don't understand God's commands, but I find I do understand some of his methods. To call them "earthly" methods is of course backwards, as it is more likely that when I develop quality plans that aid others I am actually emulating God's logical mind. I find that seeing God's orderly approach strengthens my faith, as it creates a bridge to God I can understand.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Abba, you are my guide and teacher. I see your hand moving in both inexplicable miracles, and in the daily order of this world. You are in control, on your throne. May I release more and more to you every day. Amen.
Observation: To complete the census of the tribes, Moses is to count the Levites. Instead of just counting the military, this time he is to count all males, and compare them to the number of firstborn males in all the rest of Israel, as they are to take the place of all those other males - they are to redeem the debt owed to God when he spared the firstborn of Israel by taking their place in consecrated and special service to God.
It is in this manner that God improves both the lives of Israel, and their service and worship to the Lord. Declaring that all first born males must become priests would have created chaos, as every family would have been impacted, and organizing and training those serving would be difficult. Effectively, God 'centralized the function' into the tribe of Levi. It is this one tribe that will serve, becoming trained as priests and caretakers and craftsmen. The result will be superior service, superior worship, superior coordination. At the same time the family structure of all of Israel will be maintained, creating superior happiness, superior love, superior prosperity.
Application: I do not understand God's ways ... I do not understand why God required redemption and ownership of the firstborn of Israel in the first place. However, I appreciate his methods. God is a strategist, a mathematician, an astronomer, a chemist, a poet, a physicist, an artist. God designs complex biological structures and chemical compounds, and paints awe inspiring sunrises. He calculated the speed of light and the force of gravity, and invented the harmonizing of music. And when God declared the service of the firstborn of Israel, he designed a plan that maximized the value of that requirement.
I often don't understand God's commands, but I find I do understand some of his methods. To call them "earthly" methods is of course backwards, as it is more likely that when I develop quality plans that aid others I am actually emulating God's logical mind. I find that seeing God's orderly approach strengthens my faith, as it creates a bridge to God I can understand.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Abba, you are my guide and teacher. I see your hand moving in both inexplicable miracles, and in the daily order of this world. You are in control, on your throne. May I release more and more to you every day. Amen.
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Trepidation at God's Notice
Scripture: And the angel came to her and said, "Rejoice, favored woman! The Lord is with you." But she was deeply troubled by this statement, wondering what kind of greeting this could be. Luke 1:28-29
Observation: When the angel Gabriel greets Mary, he says the Lord is with her, and called her favored. He tells her to rejoice, and footnotes say that some versions add the he calls her 'blessed among women'. While it may be normal to respond with fear at the appearance of an angel, these words are not fearful. They are warm, complimentary, and joyful. However, Mary is "deeply troubled" and wonders about the "kind of greeting" this is.
In other words, Mary distrusts the words. We know this is not a matter of faith in God, but rather it is a hesitance in her own understanding of what the words may mean. She is troubled by a kind and uplifting word from God, wondering if it can be accepted on face value as just that - kind and uplifting - or if it is the prelude to a setup. (Of course, both are true.)
Mary is not thought less for this reaction, and Gabriel proceeds on with "fear not" and explaining the upcoming conception, birth, and purpose of Jesus. Her tentative reaction is not a concern, and only registers as an element of trepidation.
Application: I often pray for God's love and assistance and presence. However, there are times where my shame of sin or thoughts would leave me in fear of God acknowledging me in any manner. This is a paradox that likely doesn't teeter-totter back and forth, but more ebbs slightly back and forth in degrees. If I ever thought God was speaking to me, I would be both excited and afraid, and the amount of each would only vary a little based on my current mindset.
Yet Gabriel shows how God reacts ... just proceeding with love. God knows me, and would simply continue his conversation.
I do know that God aids me, guides me, and gives me words from time to time. I am not a person he will ever appear to, but he reveals himself. I would like to think that I would be thrilled, but even Mary was concerned when God spoke to her. I can seek God's action in my life, and out of respect be a little wary of what he'll think when he engages with me.
Prayer: Lord, here I am today. May I serve you in humility by serving others in love. I know I am blessed. May I be a blessing to others. Amen.
Observation: When the angel Gabriel greets Mary, he says the Lord is with her, and called her favored. He tells her to rejoice, and footnotes say that some versions add the he calls her 'blessed among women'. While it may be normal to respond with fear at the appearance of an angel, these words are not fearful. They are warm, complimentary, and joyful. However, Mary is "deeply troubled" and wonders about the "kind of greeting" this is.
In other words, Mary distrusts the words. We know this is not a matter of faith in God, but rather it is a hesitance in her own understanding of what the words may mean. She is troubled by a kind and uplifting word from God, wondering if it can be accepted on face value as just that - kind and uplifting - or if it is the prelude to a setup. (Of course, both are true.)
Mary is not thought less for this reaction, and Gabriel proceeds on with "fear not" and explaining the upcoming conception, birth, and purpose of Jesus. Her tentative reaction is not a concern, and only registers as an element of trepidation.
Application: I often pray for God's love and assistance and presence. However, there are times where my shame of sin or thoughts would leave me in fear of God acknowledging me in any manner. This is a paradox that likely doesn't teeter-totter back and forth, but more ebbs slightly back and forth in degrees. If I ever thought God was speaking to me, I would be both excited and afraid, and the amount of each would only vary a little based on my current mindset.
Yet Gabriel shows how God reacts ... just proceeding with love. God knows me, and would simply continue his conversation.
I do know that God aids me, guides me, and gives me words from time to time. I am not a person he will ever appear to, but he reveals himself. I would like to think that I would be thrilled, but even Mary was concerned when God spoke to her. I can seek God's action in my life, and out of respect be a little wary of what he'll think when he engages with me.
Prayer: Lord, here I am today. May I serve you in humility by serving others in love. I know I am blessed. May I be a blessing to others. Amen.
Monday, March 12, 2018
Taking Trust to the Next Level
Scripture: If you wonder: ‘What will we eat in the seventh year if we don’t sow or gather our produce?’ I will appoint My blessing for you in the sixth year, so that it will produce a crop sufficient for three years. Leviticus 25:20-21
Observation: As the Lord provides instruction for the Sabbath year, he answers the most obvious question ... If we don't work the land on the seventh year, what will we eat both that year (when we can't harvest) and the next (because we couldn't plant)? The answer is simple. If Israel obeys as a result of their trust in the Lord, he will bless them in the sixth year and ensure provision for not just that year but also the seventh and eighth years.
This is a matter of trust. God makes a promise and asks for faith. If we respond with faith, God keeps his promise. It's that straightforward.
Application: I continue to seek God's promises in my life, as I try to be ready to place total faith in him. Both are hard. I am not always sure I am worthy of God's promises, and I think this is why I have trouble applying such promises in scripture to my life. At the same time, I am a self-sufficient person, and while I have total faith in the Lord I do not turn every challenge over to him. Even when I say "please help with this, Lord," I will then work the issue myself, believing that God will give me wisdom and direction. I rarely fully release something to God.
The Jews were told to trust that God would take care of their very lives - that they were not to lift a finger. That is a high bar of trusting the Lord. It is one I should consider.
Prayer: Lord, I do seek your promises and assistance. I know my life would be better if I released my concerns to you. I desire to do this. Please do not just order my steps, but also show me when I should simply rest and allow you to carry the burdens. Amen.
Observation: As the Lord provides instruction for the Sabbath year, he answers the most obvious question ... If we don't work the land on the seventh year, what will we eat both that year (when we can't harvest) and the next (because we couldn't plant)? The answer is simple. If Israel obeys as a result of their trust in the Lord, he will bless them in the sixth year and ensure provision for not just that year but also the seventh and eighth years.
This is a matter of trust. God makes a promise and asks for faith. If we respond with faith, God keeps his promise. It's that straightforward.
Application: I continue to seek God's promises in my life, as I try to be ready to place total faith in him. Both are hard. I am not always sure I am worthy of God's promises, and I think this is why I have trouble applying such promises in scripture to my life. At the same time, I am a self-sufficient person, and while I have total faith in the Lord I do not turn every challenge over to him. Even when I say "please help with this, Lord," I will then work the issue myself, believing that God will give me wisdom and direction. I rarely fully release something to God.
The Jews were told to trust that God would take care of their very lives - that they were not to lift a finger. That is a high bar of trusting the Lord. It is one I should consider.
Prayer: Lord, I do seek your promises and assistance. I know my life would be better if I released my concerns to you. I desire to do this. Please do not just order my steps, but also show me when I should simply rest and allow you to carry the burdens. Amen.
Friday, March 9, 2018
Laws of Holiness
Scripture: Speak to the entire Israelite community and tell them: Be holy because I, Yahweh your God, am holy. Leviticus 19:2
Observation: God states a lot of laws - some reiterating the 10 commandments, some new - and describes the observance of these laws as a method to be holy. These laws include ... Respecting ones parents; Keeping the Sabbath; Not worshiping idols; Properly performing sacrificing; Allocating parts of the food harvests for the poor; Not stealing; Not lying; Not oppressing others financially; Not dealing harshly with ignorant people; Avoiding giving preference in matters to either the rich or the poor; Avoiding gossip; Not hating others or harboring a grudge; Not taking revenge; Keeping the laws about livestock; Keeping all laws on sexual morality; Avoiding adopting pagan practices; Refusing to consult mediums and spiritualists; Honoring the elderly; Treating foreigners well; Not cheating others in business.
This is a full chapter that could be summarized as ... being holy - striving to be like God - is defined by how you honor God, and properly relate to each other.
Application: It seems that so often, understanding how to relate to God comes down to two elements.
First is faith - understanding that God is the all powerful creator, and Jesus is our Lord. This is honoring and worshipping and trusting and praying. Many don't understand this, but many do.
Second is action - exhibiting our faith by honoring God's creation and created, i.e., each other. We are to be nice to each other in all situations. Because we end up with different definitions of 'nice' God had to spell it out, but it's all the same. Many don't understand this, but many do.
And here's the rub ... as believers - disciples - we must understand both, not one or the other. There are non-believers who live to be nice to others. There are believers who lie, cheat, and oppress others. It is only a disciple who can be set apart from society by doing both.
I fear I fail to honor God's creation too often. I get angry, hold a grudge, seek revenge, lie. Some of these seem inconsequential because they aren't part of the "big" laws, or are even common practices in society. God clearly sees this different, and not just because these things hurt people. God states that we must love and respect those whom he loves, which is all created people. Breaking rules about how to interact with each other isn't about hurting others, it's about refusing to pursue God's holiness. Disrespecting others disrespects God.
I need to lock this thought in my heart.
Prayer: Lord, this is a timely lesson based on the tests coming my way in the next two weeks. There are those who are hard to respect, let alone love. However, they are your creation, and you love them. I will strive to practice holiness. Amen.
Observation: God states a lot of laws - some reiterating the 10 commandments, some new - and describes the observance of these laws as a method to be holy. These laws include ... Respecting ones parents; Keeping the Sabbath; Not worshiping idols; Properly performing sacrificing; Allocating parts of the food harvests for the poor; Not stealing; Not lying; Not oppressing others financially; Not dealing harshly with ignorant people; Avoiding giving preference in matters to either the rich or the poor; Avoiding gossip; Not hating others or harboring a grudge; Not taking revenge; Keeping the laws about livestock; Keeping all laws on sexual morality; Avoiding adopting pagan practices; Refusing to consult mediums and spiritualists; Honoring the elderly; Treating foreigners well; Not cheating others in business.
This is a full chapter that could be summarized as ... being holy - striving to be like God - is defined by how you honor God, and properly relate to each other.
Application: It seems that so often, understanding how to relate to God comes down to two elements.
First is faith - understanding that God is the all powerful creator, and Jesus is our Lord. This is honoring and worshipping and trusting and praying. Many don't understand this, but many do.
Second is action - exhibiting our faith by honoring God's creation and created, i.e., each other. We are to be nice to each other in all situations. Because we end up with different definitions of 'nice' God had to spell it out, but it's all the same. Many don't understand this, but many do.
And here's the rub ... as believers - disciples - we must understand both, not one or the other. There are non-believers who live to be nice to others. There are believers who lie, cheat, and oppress others. It is only a disciple who can be set apart from society by doing both.
I fear I fail to honor God's creation too often. I get angry, hold a grudge, seek revenge, lie. Some of these seem inconsequential because they aren't part of the "big" laws, or are even common practices in society. God clearly sees this different, and not just because these things hurt people. God states that we must love and respect those whom he loves, which is all created people. Breaking rules about how to interact with each other isn't about hurting others, it's about refusing to pursue God's holiness. Disrespecting others disrespects God.
I need to lock this thought in my heart.
Prayer: Lord, this is a timely lesson based on the tests coming my way in the next two weeks. There are those who are hard to respect, let alone love. However, they are your creation, and you love them. I will strive to practice holiness. Amen.
Thursday, March 8, 2018
God is Not Additive to Others
Scripture: Say to them: Anyone from the house of Israel or from the foreigners who live among them who offers a burnt offering or a sacrifice but does not bring it to the entrance to the tent of meeting to sacrifice it to the Lord, that person must be cut off from his people. Leviticus 17:8-9
Observation: After explaining the ritual sacrifice practices, God is clear that the Jews are not to sacrifice in any other way or to any other god. They are not to make any other kind of offering, for any other cause, in any other place. They are to present their honor to God alone, and in God's manner and presence.
Application: Are there times when I try to add God to the rest of my life? Are there areas where I have a certain custom, practice, or attitude, and instead of replacing it with what God has asked I instead try to add God's guidance into the mix?
I will watch for this today. It is possible that I struggle to hear God's guidance during the day because I have my own plans and practices in place, and I am then looking for how God may guide me within that context. I could be that I need to entirely overhaul my 'way of doing business'.
Prayer: Lord, you are my light. May I walk on the path that you illuminate only. Help me to not be double minded, but to listen for your instruction and follow it to the exclusion of other thoughts, habits, and plans. Amen.
Observation: After explaining the ritual sacrifice practices, God is clear that the Jews are not to sacrifice in any other way or to any other god. They are not to make any other kind of offering, for any other cause, in any other place. They are to present their honor to God alone, and in God's manner and presence.
Application: Are there times when I try to add God to the rest of my life? Are there areas where I have a certain custom, practice, or attitude, and instead of replacing it with what God has asked I instead try to add God's guidance into the mix?
I will watch for this today. It is possible that I struggle to hear God's guidance during the day because I have my own plans and practices in place, and I am then looking for how God may guide me within that context. I could be that I need to entirely overhaul my 'way of doing business'.
Prayer: Lord, you are my light. May I walk on the path that you illuminate only. Help me to not be double minded, but to listen for your instruction and follow it to the exclusion of other thoughts, habits, and plans. Amen.
Monday, March 5, 2018
Closer to Kingdom Priorities
Scripture: When Jesus saw that he answered intelligently, He said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And no one dared to question Him any longer. Mark 12:34
Observation: The final exchange with the Pharisees challenging Jesus' knowledge is from a young scribe who agrees with his answer, and so Jesus tells him he is "not far from the kingdom of God." This is a vague statement, as "far" could mean that the young man is ... close to understanding salvation, or standing next to God on earth, or living in the time when the kingdom is about to be fulfilled. However ... was it the agreement that the Shemah - the first command - is the greatest command really worthy of such praise?
It is actually in the second parts of their conversation that warrants this praise. The question was what was the greatest command, and Jesus answers but then provides a second-greatest response - to love thy neighbor as yourself. The scribe agrees with the first, and then ... agrees that loving others is more important than all the ritual laws. He effectively acknowledges that caring for and loving others is above all the procedures and petty rules the Pharisees cling to.
It is this attitude that Jesus acknowledges. Jesus has found in this scribe a man knowledgeable in all the laws, and yet who is willing to declare that loving others is more important. This has been Jesus' message for years now, and now someone WAY outside his discipleship circle sees the truth. That is Jesus' definition of being "not far from the kingdom of God."
Application: It is in our love for others that we are closest to the teaching of Jesus. In fact, it is only when placing that love above other issues that we are closest to becoming like Jesus. This remains a challenge for me on a day-to-day basis. I struggle to love everyone. I know I am improving, as I often see good in others and desire to show them kindness even when they may be causing earthly problems. I know I'm getting closer. I will continue to try harder.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for always speaking with love, even when instructing your enemies on earth. May I lean into that example, and make my words those of gentleness and kindness more and more often. Amen.
Observation: The final exchange with the Pharisees challenging Jesus' knowledge is from a young scribe who agrees with his answer, and so Jesus tells him he is "not far from the kingdom of God." This is a vague statement, as "far" could mean that the young man is ... close to understanding salvation, or standing next to God on earth, or living in the time when the kingdom is about to be fulfilled. However ... was it the agreement that the Shemah - the first command - is the greatest command really worthy of such praise?
It is actually in the second parts of their conversation that warrants this praise. The question was what was the greatest command, and Jesus answers but then provides a second-greatest response - to love thy neighbor as yourself. The scribe agrees with the first, and then ... agrees that loving others is more important than all the ritual laws. He effectively acknowledges that caring for and loving others is above all the procedures and petty rules the Pharisees cling to.
It is this attitude that Jesus acknowledges. Jesus has found in this scribe a man knowledgeable in all the laws, and yet who is willing to declare that loving others is more important. This has been Jesus' message for years now, and now someone WAY outside his discipleship circle sees the truth. That is Jesus' definition of being "not far from the kingdom of God."
Application: It is in our love for others that we are closest to the teaching of Jesus. In fact, it is only when placing that love above other issues that we are closest to becoming like Jesus. This remains a challenge for me on a day-to-day basis. I struggle to love everyone. I know I am improving, as I often see good in others and desire to show them kindness even when they may be causing earthly problems. I know I'm getting closer. I will continue to try harder.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for always speaking with love, even when instructing your enemies on earth. May I lean into that example, and make my words those of gentleness and kindness more and more often. Amen.
Thursday, March 1, 2018
Hating Both Actions and Attitude
Scripture:
The Lord hates six things;
in fact, seven are detestable to Him:
arrogant eyes, a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that plots wicked schemes,
feet eager to run to evil,
a lying witness who gives false testimony,
and one who stirs up trouble among brothers
Proverbs 6:16-19
Observation: In this list of seven things God hates, several are easy to understand ... lying, murder, false testimony, and wicked thoughts. A few aren't as straightforward, though they can be understood well enough ... arrogant eyes (both lust and coveting, wrongly desiring what you see), stirring up trouble (inciting others to sin and rumor mongering), and feet running to evil (simply embracing evil things and being drawn to them).
In this, clearly to please the lord one should do none of these. To the extent they align to the commandments, that is understood. However, some of these do not have an alignment, and those are the ones that have to do with one's attitude toward wrongdoing in general. It isn't enough to not do wrong, God hates it when we incite others into sin, or when we are drawn toward evil, or when we just think about doing something wrong. Our attitude matters.
Application: So much of my life is lived inside my head. God knows this, and wants to be the Lord of my mind. While the Law speaks to actions, love speaks to attitude. When I love others, I will show them, but I will also think kindly and empathetically toward them. When I want to avoid hurtful conflict, one way is to not act on anger, but the other is to never feel angry.
My ability to serve God - and to avoid the actions he hates - begins by avoiding the attitudes he hates.
Prayer: Lord, again today I ask your forgiveness of my sins. I also ask you to be the Lord of my heart and mind. May my love for you begin inside my mind, and may my actions then be an extension of that internal guidance. In this way, I know your spirit will guide me to ensure my body remains a living sacrifice to you. Amen.
The Lord hates six things;
in fact, seven are detestable to Him:
arrogant eyes, a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that plots wicked schemes,
feet eager to run to evil,
a lying witness who gives false testimony,
and one who stirs up trouble among brothers
Proverbs 6:16-19
Observation: In this list of seven things God hates, several are easy to understand ... lying, murder, false testimony, and wicked thoughts. A few aren't as straightforward, though they can be understood well enough ... arrogant eyes (both lust and coveting, wrongly desiring what you see), stirring up trouble (inciting others to sin and rumor mongering), and feet running to evil (simply embracing evil things and being drawn to them).
In this, clearly to please the lord one should do none of these. To the extent they align to the commandments, that is understood. However, some of these do not have an alignment, and those are the ones that have to do with one's attitude toward wrongdoing in general. It isn't enough to not do wrong, God hates it when we incite others into sin, or when we are drawn toward evil, or when we just think about doing something wrong. Our attitude matters.
Application: So much of my life is lived inside my head. God knows this, and wants to be the Lord of my mind. While the Law speaks to actions, love speaks to attitude. When I love others, I will show them, but I will also think kindly and empathetically toward them. When I want to avoid hurtful conflict, one way is to not act on anger, but the other is to never feel angry.
My ability to serve God - and to avoid the actions he hates - begins by avoiding the attitudes he hates.
Prayer: Lord, again today I ask your forgiveness of my sins. I also ask you to be the Lord of my heart and mind. May my love for you begin inside my mind, and may my actions then be an extension of that internal guidance. In this way, I know your spirit will guide me to ensure my body remains a living sacrifice to you. Amen.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)