Scripture: You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.’ Mark 10:19
Observation: Jesus is about to drop a bombshell on the rich young man, that to receive eternal life he must leave all his possessions and follow him. However, he begins his answer to the question by reinforcing six of the ten commandments. Of the ten commandments, four are specific to our interaction with God, and six deal with our personal, earthly interactions. It is these six Jesus calls out.
While there are several explanations why Jesus limits his list to these six, I think the true reason is clear. The other four commandments - behaviors that are about our relationship with God - are about to be summarized in Jesus' next instruction. By leaving behind earthly things and following Jesus, we are aligning ourselves to God. Following Jesus wholeheartedly means God is our Lord ... that we have no other Gods, that we worship no other thing, that we respect and honor his name, and that we trust him with our time and very lives.
Choosing to follow Jesus IS our choosing of a right relationship with God. Choosing a right relationship with others is our choosing to obey Jesus.
Application: In this structure, I see how the commandments 'pivot'. They are even written this way ... the first four commandments have explanations and details, yet the next six are bullet points. On a PowerPoint slide, the slide title would be "Do Not:" followed by six words.
Jesus came to "fulfill the law". He did this by directly becoming the means by which we can achieve a relationship with God, and providing us with the sacrifice we need to be right with God when we struggle with the behaviors of our earthly lives. Jesus is my relationship with God. My real task is to better align my life to his instructions.
Prayer: Lord, again today I see that my relationship with others is something you care about. May I continue to improve in this as I interact with all people, from friends, to Christian brothers and sisters, to colleagues, to strangers. May my relationship with you improve my relating to others. Amen.
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Wednesday, February 27, 2019
Find Protection in God's House
Scripture:
One thing I ask from the Lord,
this only do I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the Lord
and to seek him in his temple.
Psalm 27:4
Observation: This psalm begins in a way common to the psalms of David - declaring trust in God for protection from enemies. David is always confident that enemies will be defeated and he leans into God's protection often. However, in verse 4 David calls out his method for truly pursuing that protection.
David has only one purpose in life, one true request from the Lord ... to live with the Lord. He only wishes to be in God's presence every day, to gaze on his beauty and wonder, and seek him in his temple. While he desires protection and love, he knows those will simply be byproducts of relationship.
Application: So often in the last year I have prayed for protection, and I think the trials have brought me into closer relationship with the Lord. This is truly what I want to continue to improve and pursue - my relationship with God. I want to be in communication, communion, and cooperation with the Lord during my daily work. I want my work to align to his will, both in the realm of my "job" and in the efforts of my service. I want to gaze on his beauty all around me, and know that this world is his temple where I can experience him every day. I wish to dwell with the Lord all the days of my life.
Prayer: Lord, this one thing I ask, that I may dwell in your house. May I pursue a relationship with you more and more every day. Please be near to me as I strive to make you central not just in my heart, but in may thoughts, deeds, and life. Thank you for your love and protection, and please continue to extend that to my family. Amen.
One thing I ask from the Lord,
this only do I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the Lord
and to seek him in his temple.
Psalm 27:4
Observation: This psalm begins in a way common to the psalms of David - declaring trust in God for protection from enemies. David is always confident that enemies will be defeated and he leans into God's protection often. However, in verse 4 David calls out his method for truly pursuing that protection.
David has only one purpose in life, one true request from the Lord ... to live with the Lord. He only wishes to be in God's presence every day, to gaze on his beauty and wonder, and seek him in his temple. While he desires protection and love, he knows those will simply be byproducts of relationship.
Application: So often in the last year I have prayed for protection, and I think the trials have brought me into closer relationship with the Lord. This is truly what I want to continue to improve and pursue - my relationship with God. I want to be in communication, communion, and cooperation with the Lord during my daily work. I want my work to align to his will, both in the realm of my "job" and in the efforts of my service. I want to gaze on his beauty all around me, and know that this world is his temple where I can experience him every day. I wish to dwell with the Lord all the days of my life.
Prayer: Lord, this one thing I ask, that I may dwell in your house. May I pursue a relationship with you more and more every day. Please be near to me as I strive to make you central not just in my heart, but in may thoughts, deeds, and life. Thank you for your love and protection, and please continue to extend that to my family. Amen.
Tuesday, February 26, 2019
Faith in Everything
Scripture: When they came to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and the teachers of the law arguing with them ... "What are you arguing with them about?" he asked. Mark 9:14,16
Observation: Jesus comes down from the transfiguration and finds this scene, and when asking why they are arguing a man steps forward with a possessed boy. There is a LOT going on here. The disciples have failed to drive out the spirit ... they are arguing with the Pharisees who presumably have also failed to address this ... the evil spirit is strong and of a special kind according to Jesus ... and notably, the boy's father doesn't really have faith that Jesus can do anything. The father says "if" you can do something - a fact Jesus jumps on and corrects him for - and even before he says that Jesus condemns the entire crowd for their lack of faith, asking how long must he put up with them.
But ... what were the disciples and Pharisees actually arguing about? Were they simply fighting about the boy's situation, with the Pharisees saying "see, you can't fix this either, so your discipleship in Jesus is meaningless" and the disciples saying "we've been driving out evil spirits all over the region for months, just wait until Jesus gets here"? That sounds just about right for a playground fight. The hint about the argument is probably in who Jesus is rebuking for their faithlessness.
It likely isn't the disciples. He has before corrected them for their lack of understanding, but not for their lack of faith. He has sent them out two by two and they succeeded in faith, and in the end he doesn't call out a 'faith-issue' with them. However, the people - led by the Pharisees - do not come to Jesus out of faith, they come because of what Jesus can do for them. They are overwhelmed by 'wonder' when he arrives (v15) but not faith. The father is quick to doubt the disciples (v18) and doesn't know if Jesus can help (v22). Jesus knows they are without faith even before the father explicitly says it (v19).
I would guess the disciples and Pharisees are arguing about the reason they cannot drive out the spirit. The Pharisees are explaining it under the Law ... that the family's lack of obedience prevents God's intervention. The disciples are explaining it by their experience ... the lack of faith of everyone is the issue. It's a "faith versus works" argument! Though in this case, it's about improving life, not earning salvation. Jesus' decision to heal despite that lack of faith is actually his response to the argument. He fully addresses this as a faith issue, but also shows that, as Lord, he has authority.
Application: As I consider every situation in life, I need to confirm ... do I have faith? Faith is the heart of discipleship and life in Jesus Christ. Without faith, Jesus can still do great things, but with faith we can achieve his kingdom work through the power of the Holy Spirit. If every challenge begins with a gut-check on faith, success as aligned to God's will is assured. Simply trying to do the right thing, or follow some set of instructions, still might work as Jesus reaches out to us in love, but faith is still critical.
Prayer: Lord, I have faith in you as my Lord and savior, and I have faith in your direction in my life. I am following you daily, and seek your path. May I apply my faith to every footfall as well. May I have faith in small things and big things. I seek not just your will for my life, but for the next two minutes. In faith, I ask that you restore me emotionally as you have done so logistically in my life, so I never feel depressed again. Amen.
Observation: Jesus comes down from the transfiguration and finds this scene, and when asking why they are arguing a man steps forward with a possessed boy. There is a LOT going on here. The disciples have failed to drive out the spirit ... they are arguing with the Pharisees who presumably have also failed to address this ... the evil spirit is strong and of a special kind according to Jesus ... and notably, the boy's father doesn't really have faith that Jesus can do anything. The father says "if" you can do something - a fact Jesus jumps on and corrects him for - and even before he says that Jesus condemns the entire crowd for their lack of faith, asking how long must he put up with them.
But ... what were the disciples and Pharisees actually arguing about? Were they simply fighting about the boy's situation, with the Pharisees saying "see, you can't fix this either, so your discipleship in Jesus is meaningless" and the disciples saying "we've been driving out evil spirits all over the region for months, just wait until Jesus gets here"? That sounds just about right for a playground fight. The hint about the argument is probably in who Jesus is rebuking for their faithlessness.
It likely isn't the disciples. He has before corrected them for their lack of understanding, but not for their lack of faith. He has sent them out two by two and they succeeded in faith, and in the end he doesn't call out a 'faith-issue' with them. However, the people - led by the Pharisees - do not come to Jesus out of faith, they come because of what Jesus can do for them. They are overwhelmed by 'wonder' when he arrives (v15) but not faith. The father is quick to doubt the disciples (v18) and doesn't know if Jesus can help (v22). Jesus knows they are without faith even before the father explicitly says it (v19).
I would guess the disciples and Pharisees are arguing about the reason they cannot drive out the spirit. The Pharisees are explaining it under the Law ... that the family's lack of obedience prevents God's intervention. The disciples are explaining it by their experience ... the lack of faith of everyone is the issue. It's a "faith versus works" argument! Though in this case, it's about improving life, not earning salvation. Jesus' decision to heal despite that lack of faith is actually his response to the argument. He fully addresses this as a faith issue, but also shows that, as Lord, he has authority.
Application: As I consider every situation in life, I need to confirm ... do I have faith? Faith is the heart of discipleship and life in Jesus Christ. Without faith, Jesus can still do great things, but with faith we can achieve his kingdom work through the power of the Holy Spirit. If every challenge begins with a gut-check on faith, success as aligned to God's will is assured. Simply trying to do the right thing, or follow some set of instructions, still might work as Jesus reaches out to us in love, but faith is still critical.
Prayer: Lord, I have faith in you as my Lord and savior, and I have faith in your direction in my life. I am following you daily, and seek your path. May I apply my faith to every footfall as well. May I have faith in small things and big things. I seek not just your will for my life, but for the next two minutes. In faith, I ask that you restore me emotionally as you have done so logistically in my life, so I never feel depressed again. Amen.
Monday, February 25, 2019
No Further Explanation Given
Scripture: He said to them, "Do you still not understand?" Mark 8:21
Observation: Jesus makes a somewhat cryptic statement about the "yeast of the Pharisees", the disciples misunderstand it to be a reference to a lack of bread, and Jesus reminds them that he has multiplied bread in the past. He ends his correction of the disciples with this question. Of course ... Jesus never does explain his original cryptic statement.
Given the imagery of yeast in other contexts, it makes sense that the "yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod" has something to do with how a little deception or misinterpretation can create a change in an entire society. Jesus uses this same metaphor in positive ways, as an example of how just a little faith can work its way through a person's life. However, referring to the Pharisees and Herod, Jesus is certainly addressing things like the misapplication of the law as a thing that can affect all of society.
And yet, when the disciples do not understand this, Jesus does not explain it. He calls out their misunderstanding, but does not give them a new, correct understanding. There is no new information. Instead, the disciples are simply told they are failing to see and understand, reminded of other events, and left to reconsider the teaching.
Application: Jesus doesn't always spell out our lessons for us. In my life, there are certainly times when I know I have been corrected, and yet and I don't know necessarily what to do about it. This is likely a matter of faith - the first step is to change or stop what I am doing wrong, and God will later give me what I need to do differently. When I don't understand, that may mean I have missed the mark. It may also mean that I am simply to record the lesson and learn how to apply it later.
Prayer: Lord, I do not understand everything, despite all you have done and shown me. I hope that's okay. It may be that my heart is hard, but it is also that I am just limited as a human. I have prayed over and over for a softer heart, and I know you have been answering that prayer. May I continue to seek your direction and path, even when I don't understand, as I place my total faith in you. Amen.
Observation: Jesus makes a somewhat cryptic statement about the "yeast of the Pharisees", the disciples misunderstand it to be a reference to a lack of bread, and Jesus reminds them that he has multiplied bread in the past. He ends his correction of the disciples with this question. Of course ... Jesus never does explain his original cryptic statement.
Given the imagery of yeast in other contexts, it makes sense that the "yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod" has something to do with how a little deception or misinterpretation can create a change in an entire society. Jesus uses this same metaphor in positive ways, as an example of how just a little faith can work its way through a person's life. However, referring to the Pharisees and Herod, Jesus is certainly addressing things like the misapplication of the law as a thing that can affect all of society.
And yet, when the disciples do not understand this, Jesus does not explain it. He calls out their misunderstanding, but does not give them a new, correct understanding. There is no new information. Instead, the disciples are simply told they are failing to see and understand, reminded of other events, and left to reconsider the teaching.
Application: Jesus doesn't always spell out our lessons for us. In my life, there are certainly times when I know I have been corrected, and yet and I don't know necessarily what to do about it. This is likely a matter of faith - the first step is to change or stop what I am doing wrong, and God will later give me what I need to do differently. When I don't understand, that may mean I have missed the mark. It may also mean that I am simply to record the lesson and learn how to apply it later.
Prayer: Lord, I do not understand everything, despite all you have done and shown me. I hope that's okay. It may be that my heart is hard, but it is also that I am just limited as a human. I have prayed over and over for a softer heart, and I know you have been answering that prayer. May I continue to seek your direction and path, even when I don't understand, as I place my total faith in you. Amen.
Friday, February 22, 2019
I Need to Get Better
Scripture: But when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid." Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened. Mark 6:49-52
Observation: Mark covers the walking on the water story, acknowledging some failures of the disciples. They didn't recognize Jesus, they were afraid, and they continued to misunderstand the greatness of Jesus as evidenced by a lack of understanding of the feeding of the 5,000. These were failures of faith by all the disciples.
However, Mark doesn't cover the failure of Peter to walk on the water. Peter steps out onto the water, and personally loses faith and sinks, needing to be saved by Jesus. Mark skips this, likely because Mark's primary source of information is Peter himself. Peter is fine saying, "we all screwed up,", but not so much saying "I failed."
Application: Of course I am the same as Peter! I am always happy to say "the church is failing to ...:" or "we believers need to get better about ...". I'm not happy to say "I am failing" or "I need to get better."
Well ... I need to get better. I especially need to understand that I am part of the body of Christ, so any time I think 'the church' needs to improve, that means I need to improve. I know I have things I need to be doing, and I need to make that a personal - not collective or communal - mission, more and more.
Prayer: Lord, I echo David today is saying that I ask for you to show me your ways, and teach me your paths. This is not a prayer for the collective 'us' but for me. Please forgive me for the ways of my youth, and now, as an old man, lead me into an ever improving way. Thank you, my Lord and God and Savior, for your love and correction and guidance. Amen.
Observation: Mark covers the walking on the water story, acknowledging some failures of the disciples. They didn't recognize Jesus, they were afraid, and they continued to misunderstand the greatness of Jesus as evidenced by a lack of understanding of the feeding of the 5,000. These were failures of faith by all the disciples.
However, Mark doesn't cover the failure of Peter to walk on the water. Peter steps out onto the water, and personally loses faith and sinks, needing to be saved by Jesus. Mark skips this, likely because Mark's primary source of information is Peter himself. Peter is fine saying, "we all screwed up,", but not so much saying "I failed."
Application: Of course I am the same as Peter! I am always happy to say "the church is failing to ...:" or "we believers need to get better about ...". I'm not happy to say "I am failing" or "I need to get better."
Well ... I need to get better. I especially need to understand that I am part of the body of Christ, so any time I think 'the church' needs to improve, that means I need to improve. I know I have things I need to be doing, and I need to make that a personal - not collective or communal - mission, more and more.
Prayer: Lord, I echo David today is saying that I ask for you to show me your ways, and teach me your paths. This is not a prayer for the collective 'us' but for me. Please forgive me for the ways of my youth, and now, as an old man, lead me into an ever improving way. Thank you, my Lord and God and Savior, for your love and correction and guidance. Amen.
Thursday, February 21, 2019
Equal Price per Head
Scripture: The rich are not to give more than a half shekel and the poor are not to give less when you make the offering to the Lord to atone for your lives. Exodus 30:15
Observation: As part of the initiation of operations for the temple/tabernacle and the jobs of the priests, God proclaims a one-time offering as an atonement for all who were redeemed from Egypt. I defines the amount - a half shekel - and then provides this instruction, that all are to give it, and the rich are not to give more, nor the poor less. This is not consistent with a tithe, which is dependent upon wealth, nor is it consistent with other offerings that have the ability to change based on the giver's means.
In other words, all who are redeemed are worth the same. The rich, the leaders, the priests, the skilled, the wise, the strong, the men ... they are not worth more. The poor, the infirm, the laborers, the immoral, the uneducated, the weak, the women ... they are not worth less. Everyone who is redeemed is of equal value, and the price to redeem them is fixed and unilateral.
Application: When Jesus redeemed all of us, the paid the same for each person. His sacrifice was the same for me as it was for anyone else. There wasn't a greater sacrifice for noble and great people, and some lesser means for redeeming poor people. Nor was there a greater sacrifice for the wretched and wicked sinners that there was for good and upright and faithful believers. We are of equal value to the Lord.
I would do well to always remember that every person is of equal value to the Lord, and our salvation then is of equal cost. I am no better, and I am also no worse. Especially when interacting with other believers, I should recall that the Lord paid the same for their belief as he did for mine.
Prayer: Lord, as I draw closer to my community of faith, please continue to give me your eyes and your heart and your mind in considering others. I seek community with these brothers and sisters more than I have in the past. Thank you for revealing the wonder of their love to me. Amen.
Observation: As part of the initiation of operations for the temple/tabernacle and the jobs of the priests, God proclaims a one-time offering as an atonement for all who were redeemed from Egypt. I defines the amount - a half shekel - and then provides this instruction, that all are to give it, and the rich are not to give more, nor the poor less. This is not consistent with a tithe, which is dependent upon wealth, nor is it consistent with other offerings that have the ability to change based on the giver's means.
In other words, all who are redeemed are worth the same. The rich, the leaders, the priests, the skilled, the wise, the strong, the men ... they are not worth more. The poor, the infirm, the laborers, the immoral, the uneducated, the weak, the women ... they are not worth less. Everyone who is redeemed is of equal value, and the price to redeem them is fixed and unilateral.
Application: When Jesus redeemed all of us, the paid the same for each person. His sacrifice was the same for me as it was for anyone else. There wasn't a greater sacrifice for noble and great people, and some lesser means for redeeming poor people. Nor was there a greater sacrifice for the wretched and wicked sinners that there was for good and upright and faithful believers. We are of equal value to the Lord.
I would do well to always remember that every person is of equal value to the Lord, and our salvation then is of equal cost. I am no better, and I am also no worse. Especially when interacting with other believers, I should recall that the Lord paid the same for their belief as he did for mine.
Prayer: Lord, as I draw closer to my community of faith, please continue to give me your eyes and your heart and your mind in considering others. I seek community with these brothers and sisters more than I have in the past. Thank you for revealing the wonder of their love to me. Amen.
Wednesday, February 20, 2019
Unexplained Foreshadows
Scripture: In the tent of meeting, outside the curtain that shields the ark of the covenant law, Aaron and his sons are to keep the lamps burning before the Lord from evening till morning. This is to be a lasting ordinance among the Israelites for the generations to come. Exodus 27:21
Observation: As God continues to instruct Moses on how to set up the tabernacle, he returns to the lampstand. He gave instructions on how to fashion it in a prior chapter, but now he addresses the placement and lighting. It is to be in the tabernacle, as is to always burn all night long. In other words, there must never be darkness within the tabernacle.
From an earthly perspective, this requirement requires care and planning. We also know this is the requirement at stake that eventually becomes the celebration of Hanukkah, when the lamp is miraculously kept lit despite a limited supply of oil. From a heavenly perspective, this reinforces the fact that it is never dark in heaven, because their is a source of continual light, and that source is Jesus.
The tabernacle will never go dark. This is not because the people continually stoke a huge bonfire as a result of their earthly sacrifices. Rather, it is because there is one source of light in the presence of God. Our efforts outside of heaven cannot make heaven right. Our attention to Jesus is required.
Application: The minor metaphors of the tabernacle are confusing, unclear, and obscure. I have no idea what 90 percent of them mean, and probably don't even realize that another portion exist at all. However, Jesus is the light of the world, and the perpetual light of heaven, and we know that there is never darkness nor fear in his presence.
A candelabra is a very poor earthly replacement for Jesus, just like we - the church - are a poor embodiment of Jesus. That said, we are his lamps here on earth. We need to always give light. When it is dark, that it when it is most critical that we are lit and shining.
Prayer: Lord, our society is dark. May our oil never run out in these times. We cannot be your light from the perspective of quality, but we can be lit and providing earthly light to the best of our ability. Please guide me in the weeks to come as I seek your will in where and how to burn. Amen.
Observation: As God continues to instruct Moses on how to set up the tabernacle, he returns to the lampstand. He gave instructions on how to fashion it in a prior chapter, but now he addresses the placement and lighting. It is to be in the tabernacle, as is to always burn all night long. In other words, there must never be darkness within the tabernacle.
From an earthly perspective, this requirement requires care and planning. We also know this is the requirement at stake that eventually becomes the celebration of Hanukkah, when the lamp is miraculously kept lit despite a limited supply of oil. From a heavenly perspective, this reinforces the fact that it is never dark in heaven, because their is a source of continual light, and that source is Jesus.
The tabernacle will never go dark. This is not because the people continually stoke a huge bonfire as a result of their earthly sacrifices. Rather, it is because there is one source of light in the presence of God. Our efforts outside of heaven cannot make heaven right. Our attention to Jesus is required.
Application: The minor metaphors of the tabernacle are confusing, unclear, and obscure. I have no idea what 90 percent of them mean, and probably don't even realize that another portion exist at all. However, Jesus is the light of the world, and the perpetual light of heaven, and we know that there is never darkness nor fear in his presence.
A candelabra is a very poor earthly replacement for Jesus, just like we - the church - are a poor embodiment of Jesus. That said, we are his lamps here on earth. We need to always give light. When it is dark, that it when it is most critical that we are lit and shining.
Prayer: Lord, our society is dark. May our oil never run out in these times. We cannot be your light from the perspective of quality, but we can be lit and providing earthly light to the best of our ability. Please guide me in the weeks to come as I seek your will in where and how to burn. Amen.
Tuesday, February 19, 2019
Jesus' First Evangelist
Scripture: Jesus did not let him, but said, "Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed. Mark 5:19-20
Observation: The Decapolis was a collection of 10 Roman-controlled, gentile-dominated cities east of the Jordan river. They were not part of Judea at that time. Most were in the area of the trans-Jordan tribal lands, which is today Jordan, and one of them evolved to now be Amman, the modern capital of Jordan.
Here we have a man, healed of demon possession, who begins a ministry of telling everyone in this 10 city region about Jesus. This would have been an area significantly larger than the region of Galilee, and maybe the size of Galilee and the northern part of Judea combined. In other words, from the perspective of territory, this man is about to undertake evangelism on a similar scale of Jesus himself. That is certainly a stretch, of course, but yet this man does without a doubt take the message of Jesus to this primarily gentile territory.
There is a surprising evangelical emphasis here. This early in Jesus' ministry, this unnamed man becomes the first major evangelist, reaching a people-group the disciples would not attempt to reach for years. The existence of a heard of pigs immediately indicates this is not a Hebrew place. The fact this man heads off into a named region implies a major undertaking. And the fact he was sent on this assignment by Jesus is clear. Jesus sends this man to his 'own people' with one simple message ... the Lord, and specifically Jesus himself, has provided for this man and had mercy on him. We see later how this might have played out ... it is near this same place where the feeding of the 5,000 occurs, so perhaps that crowd is the result of this man generating curiosity about Jesus.
Application: When God chooses to act, he does so both decisively and surprisingly. Jesus may have spent less than a day on the east side of Galilee, and in so doing identifies one crazy man to become the biggest single evangelist of his day. His choice of messengers is surprising, and yet logical, as it is a local with a great story to tell.
I wonder where, when, and how I am a local with a story to tell. I wonder what my simple message should be. I would like to be able to start telling my story in an easy way to others, where I am, in order to point others toward curiosity about Jesus. It is probably time for me to start figuring that out.
Prayer: Lord, forgive my slowness in action. You have done so much for me in life! May I have enough faith and humility to tell others of your great mercy and love. Amen.
Observation: The Decapolis was a collection of 10 Roman-controlled, gentile-dominated cities east of the Jordan river. They were not part of Judea at that time. Most were in the area of the trans-Jordan tribal lands, which is today Jordan, and one of them evolved to now be Amman, the modern capital of Jordan.
Here we have a man, healed of demon possession, who begins a ministry of telling everyone in this 10 city region about Jesus. This would have been an area significantly larger than the region of Galilee, and maybe the size of Galilee and the northern part of Judea combined. In other words, from the perspective of territory, this man is about to undertake evangelism on a similar scale of Jesus himself. That is certainly a stretch, of course, but yet this man does without a doubt take the message of Jesus to this primarily gentile territory.
There is a surprising evangelical emphasis here. This early in Jesus' ministry, this unnamed man becomes the first major evangelist, reaching a people-group the disciples would not attempt to reach for years. The existence of a heard of pigs immediately indicates this is not a Hebrew place. The fact this man heads off into a named region implies a major undertaking. And the fact he was sent on this assignment by Jesus is clear. Jesus sends this man to his 'own people' with one simple message ... the Lord, and specifically Jesus himself, has provided for this man and had mercy on him. We see later how this might have played out ... it is near this same place where the feeding of the 5,000 occurs, so perhaps that crowd is the result of this man generating curiosity about Jesus.
Application: When God chooses to act, he does so both decisively and surprisingly. Jesus may have spent less than a day on the east side of Galilee, and in so doing identifies one crazy man to become the biggest single evangelist of his day. His choice of messengers is surprising, and yet logical, as it is a local with a great story to tell.
I wonder where, when, and how I am a local with a story to tell. I wonder what my simple message should be. I would like to be able to start telling my story in an easy way to others, where I am, in order to point others toward curiosity about Jesus. It is probably time for me to start figuring that out.
Prayer: Lord, forgive my slowness in action. You have done so much for me in life! May I have enough faith and humility to tell others of your great mercy and love. Amen.
Monday, February 18, 2019
Subverting Justice is Not Mercy
Scripture: Do not spread false reports. Do not help a guilty person by being a malicious witness. Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong. When you give testimony in a lawsuit, do not pervert justice by siding with the crowd, and do not show favoritism to a poor person in a lawsuit. Exodus 23:1-3
Observation: Moses tells the laws of God, which here this subsection is titled the laws of "justice and mercy". These laws primarily deal with ... lying, and especially lying in a manner that manipulates an outcome. The people are warned they are not to do this, even if they are doing so in a manner that appears to provide mercy, such as to aid a poor person, or to support the majority opinion. Justice and mercy and not to be confused. Mercy involves aiding people - even your enemy - when they have need. Justice involves telling the truth and being honest in all dealing. At no time does mercy involve controverting justice.
Application: There is certainly an element of our society today that believe "justice" is best served by retaliating against those who have perceived advantage, be it by race, gender, status, or title. God is clear - we are to have mercy on the disadvantaged, but exercise proper justice independent of that concept.
Our society is so divided, and getting worse, and this concept is close to the heart of that division. We have many people with advantage who refuse mercy on others. We have many people who would achieve 'mercy' by retaliating against others through lies, manipulation, and outright public attacks in which they feel justified. Convoluting mercy and justice is a problem God has warned us about. They are two different concepts yet core to God's instructions, as Micah calls out. It seems important that we find a way to separate and balance them again.
Prayer: Lord, I see your instructions, though I have very, very little ability to influence this in society. In fact, I may be exactly the type of person who cannot speak into society on this issue. That said, may your love do the talking. I pray that your message be heard, and your will be done. I desire to see a rebirth of civility in our nation and our community, driven by an understanding of your love for all. I can show that love, and I will strive to do so. Amen.
Observation: Moses tells the laws of God, which here this subsection is titled the laws of "justice and mercy". These laws primarily deal with ... lying, and especially lying in a manner that manipulates an outcome. The people are warned they are not to do this, even if they are doing so in a manner that appears to provide mercy, such as to aid a poor person, or to support the majority opinion. Justice and mercy and not to be confused. Mercy involves aiding people - even your enemy - when they have need. Justice involves telling the truth and being honest in all dealing. At no time does mercy involve controverting justice.
Application: There is certainly an element of our society today that believe "justice" is best served by retaliating against those who have perceived advantage, be it by race, gender, status, or title. God is clear - we are to have mercy on the disadvantaged, but exercise proper justice independent of that concept.
Our society is so divided, and getting worse, and this concept is close to the heart of that division. We have many people with advantage who refuse mercy on others. We have many people who would achieve 'mercy' by retaliating against others through lies, manipulation, and outright public attacks in which they feel justified. Convoluting mercy and justice is a problem God has warned us about. They are two different concepts yet core to God's instructions, as Micah calls out. It seems important that we find a way to separate and balance them again.
Prayer: Lord, I see your instructions, though I have very, very little ability to influence this in society. In fact, I may be exactly the type of person who cannot speak into society on this issue. That said, may your love do the talking. I pray that your message be heard, and your will be done. I desire to see a rebirth of civility in our nation and our community, driven by an understanding of your love for all. I can show that love, and I will strive to do so. Amen.
Friday, February 15, 2019
Thursday, February 14, 2019
Some Near-Term Doubt
Scripture: Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Matthew 28:16-17
Observation: After the resurrection, Jesus meets the core disciples. In other accounts, this occurs in Jerusalem before moving on to some other locations, and Thomas is explicitly called out as doubting that Jesus has resurrected until he sees him personally, then even he believes. In this account, they go to Galilee and worship him, but some doubt.
It is not clear what they doubt. Do they doubt he is alive? That he ever died? That they should worship him? That his continued teachings are accurate? That he has, in fact, been granted all authority in heaven and on earth (verse 18)? That they should, in fact, proceed in an evangelical ministry without his presence?
Matthew leaves this completely up to interpretation, however given the context - just the 11, at a time of worship, with Jesus face-to-face - it seems most likely the 'doubt' is about the future and if they should continue "following" Jesus after he leaves them ... and the vagueness leaves the possibility that the doubter is Matthew himself.
Application: Thomas doubted Jesus has risen, until he saw Jesus. "Doubting" Jesus while interacting with him, then, is about doubting what to do next. It's about doubting and trusting instructions. The Israelites today did the same thing, collecting manna incorrectly because they didn't trust God's instructions. Now, perhaps Matthew is unsure if he should trust the instruction and direction in his life.
This helps me when I find it hard to trust. When I wonder about the turns in my life and the short-term path, that is a form of distrust, and I'm probably in good company with that. It is also encouraging to see that Matthew - or any/all of the 11 - overcame that distrust and became great servants of Jesus. And I will overcome any doubt ... which is really in the form of worry, and sometimes more about self-doubt that I am worthy of instruction or love or guidance.
I trust in the world long-term, and I strive to trust in Jesus at all times and in every circumstance. Sometimes I doubt little things, despite evidence of God's love all around me. I will continue my efforts to believe not only in the resurrect Christ, but in the daily protection, promises, and instructions of the Lord.
Prayer: Lord, again today I seek to walk with you, and this begins with trusting where you would have me go. Like a child, I desire to humbly take your hand and simply go with you. Thank you for your continued love. Amen.
Observation: After the resurrection, Jesus meets the core disciples. In other accounts, this occurs in Jerusalem before moving on to some other locations, and Thomas is explicitly called out as doubting that Jesus has resurrected until he sees him personally, then even he believes. In this account, they go to Galilee and worship him, but some doubt.
It is not clear what they doubt. Do they doubt he is alive? That he ever died? That they should worship him? That his continued teachings are accurate? That he has, in fact, been granted all authority in heaven and on earth (verse 18)? That they should, in fact, proceed in an evangelical ministry without his presence?
Matthew leaves this completely up to interpretation, however given the context - just the 11, at a time of worship, with Jesus face-to-face - it seems most likely the 'doubt' is about the future and if they should continue "following" Jesus after he leaves them ... and the vagueness leaves the possibility that the doubter is Matthew himself.
Application: Thomas doubted Jesus has risen, until he saw Jesus. "Doubting" Jesus while interacting with him, then, is about doubting what to do next. It's about doubting and trusting instructions. The Israelites today did the same thing, collecting manna incorrectly because they didn't trust God's instructions. Now, perhaps Matthew is unsure if he should trust the instruction and direction in his life.
This helps me when I find it hard to trust. When I wonder about the turns in my life and the short-term path, that is a form of distrust, and I'm probably in good company with that. It is also encouraging to see that Matthew - or any/all of the 11 - overcame that distrust and became great servants of Jesus. And I will overcome any doubt ... which is really in the form of worry, and sometimes more about self-doubt that I am worthy of instruction or love or guidance.
I trust in the world long-term, and I strive to trust in Jesus at all times and in every circumstance. Sometimes I doubt little things, despite evidence of God's love all around me. I will continue my efforts to believe not only in the resurrect Christ, but in the daily protection, promises, and instructions of the Lord.
Prayer: Lord, again today I seek to walk with you, and this begins with trusting where you would have me go. Like a child, I desire to humbly take your hand and simply go with you. Thank you for your continued love. Amen.
Wednesday, February 13, 2019
Faith as a Footnote
Scripture: Moses took the bones of Joseph with him because Joseph had made the Israelites swear an oath. He had said, "God will surely come to your aid, and then you must carry my bones up with you from this place." Exodus 13:19
Observation: As this entire section is about the departure of the Israelites from Egypt, this one short paragraph comes up. Joseph had always had faith that the people would leave Egypt and go back to the promised land, and had made this request about the final burial of his bones. He was the only one of Jacob's sons to make such a request, and he is the only one for which a tribe is not named.
Joseph's faith is unique. He could be the obscure son who disappeared from history, and in his younger years he was brash, arrogant, and foolish in dealing with his brothers. However, it was almost exclusively by his faith - throughout his time in slavery and prison and then exalted status - that literally saved Israel. As they begin their epic journey as a nation, his faith gets one final nod.
Application: Like most Christians, I probably want my faith to be loud and proud. I would like that to be the headlines of all stories. That just isn't the case, however. In most cases, I'd be happy if my faith were just mentioned at all in a third-party retelling of my day. I likely fail to even make faith a side comment about my activities on most days.
And here is Israel, rescued by God, marching into the desert, and there is a side comment of faith. As a nation of hundreds of thousands - who will very soon lament an impending attack and fear for their lives - there is a faith reflected in the hope of Joseph.
Faith is almost a footnote, but it is there. That is better than me on most days. I hope that, in the retelling of my daily life, faith can become more evident to any third-party narrator ... that faith would be a side comment, then a theme, and then the protagonist that drives my story.
Prayer: Lord, I know I am not the central figure in my life, you are. May this become more visible to others. May everyone have something to think about me every day, even if it's just a short sentence, that comments on my faith. Amen.
Observation: As this entire section is about the departure of the Israelites from Egypt, this one short paragraph comes up. Joseph had always had faith that the people would leave Egypt and go back to the promised land, and had made this request about the final burial of his bones. He was the only one of Jacob's sons to make such a request, and he is the only one for which a tribe is not named.
Joseph's faith is unique. He could be the obscure son who disappeared from history, and in his younger years he was brash, arrogant, and foolish in dealing with his brothers. However, it was almost exclusively by his faith - throughout his time in slavery and prison and then exalted status - that literally saved Israel. As they begin their epic journey as a nation, his faith gets one final nod.
Application: Like most Christians, I probably want my faith to be loud and proud. I would like that to be the headlines of all stories. That just isn't the case, however. In most cases, I'd be happy if my faith were just mentioned at all in a third-party retelling of my day. I likely fail to even make faith a side comment about my activities on most days.
And here is Israel, rescued by God, marching into the desert, and there is a side comment of faith. As a nation of hundreds of thousands - who will very soon lament an impending attack and fear for their lives - there is a faith reflected in the hope of Joseph.
Faith is almost a footnote, but it is there. That is better than me on most days. I hope that, in the retelling of my daily life, faith can become more evident to any third-party narrator ... that faith would be a side comment, then a theme, and then the protagonist that drives my story.
Prayer: Lord, I know I am not the central figure in my life, you are. May this become more visible to others. May everyone have something to think about me every day, even if it's just a short sentence, that comments on my faith. Amen.
Wednesday, February 6, 2019
God Gives Us Joy
Scripture:
The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully,
though they cannot compare
with the wings and feathers of the stork.
Job 39:13
Observation: As God responds to Job, questioning him to show his lack of understanding, he describes dozens of ways he provides for animals. He feeds, shelters, and protects them, caring for them in childbirth, and daily life. He says this about the ostrich, that it flaps its wings joyfully, despite the fact we know the wings of an ostrich are effectively worthless. It cannot fly, they wings seem to have no purpose, and they are small. They cannot even compare the wings of a stork, by God's own admission.
He goes on to describe how an ostrich is truly ignorant ... leaving its eggs unguarded, failing to care for its young. God gave the ostrich no wisdom and no good sense. And yet, it flaps it wings and runs, filled with joy and laughter. God boasts of a witless ostrich flapping its worthless wings just like he does the hunting of lions, birthing of goats, labor of oxen, feeding of ravens, power of horses, and majesty of a hawk. He does this because joy is just as great a gift to creation as any other daily provision.
Application: God grants me joy in so many ways. From happiness with my wife, to love from and for my children, to daily pleasures, to good food and drink, to even enjoying humor. Joy is a gift God gives to his created people. When I reject joy by focusing on negative aspects of life and the world, I am rejecting God's grace and love just as if I had refused a meal or a healthy life or protective shelter.
Joy is on par with all provisions. For some, like the ostrich, it is the "leading" gift from God. For all, the gift of joy is spiritual gift that we should not only receive with gladness and thanks, but even seek and rejoice.
Prayer: Today, Lord, I choose joy as a way of life. That isn't easy, as we know this world has hardships that seek to destroy our joy. However, I do know that your gifts and your love provide us with joy, and to reject joy is to reject your love, comfort, and care. Your joy can open my heart to so much more in life. May I find your joy all around me, this day and every day. Amen.
The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully,
though they cannot compare
with the wings and feathers of the stork.
Job 39:13
Observation: As God responds to Job, questioning him to show his lack of understanding, he describes dozens of ways he provides for animals. He feeds, shelters, and protects them, caring for them in childbirth, and daily life. He says this about the ostrich, that it flaps its wings joyfully, despite the fact we know the wings of an ostrich are effectively worthless. It cannot fly, they wings seem to have no purpose, and they are small. They cannot even compare the wings of a stork, by God's own admission.
He goes on to describe how an ostrich is truly ignorant ... leaving its eggs unguarded, failing to care for its young. God gave the ostrich no wisdom and no good sense. And yet, it flaps it wings and runs, filled with joy and laughter. God boasts of a witless ostrich flapping its worthless wings just like he does the hunting of lions, birthing of goats, labor of oxen, feeding of ravens, power of horses, and majesty of a hawk. He does this because joy is just as great a gift to creation as any other daily provision.
Application: God grants me joy in so many ways. From happiness with my wife, to love from and for my children, to daily pleasures, to good food and drink, to even enjoying humor. Joy is a gift God gives to his created people. When I reject joy by focusing on negative aspects of life and the world, I am rejecting God's grace and love just as if I had refused a meal or a healthy life or protective shelter.
Joy is on par with all provisions. For some, like the ostrich, it is the "leading" gift from God. For all, the gift of joy is spiritual gift that we should not only receive with gladness and thanks, but even seek and rejoice.
Prayer: Today, Lord, I choose joy as a way of life. That isn't easy, as we know this world has hardships that seek to destroy our joy. However, I do know that your gifts and your love provide us with joy, and to reject joy is to reject your love, comfort, and care. Your joy can open my heart to so much more in life. May I find your joy all around me, this day and every day. Amen.
Tuesday, February 5, 2019
Wisdom is Bought at a Price
Scripture:
The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom.
Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
Cherish her, and she will exalt you;
embrace her, and she will honor you.
Proverbs 4:7-8
Observation: Per the writer of Proverbs, the start of wisdom is ... to get wisdom. It is first wise to seek wisdom and understanding. Or to say it a different way, the first step in understanding the will of God is to wish to understand the will of God. For this, we should be willing to give up everything. Then, with wisdom, if we hold onto and cling fast to that wisdom, we will be honored through that wisdom and understanding.
Application: This is what I was really praying last night. I have recently acquired wisdom, and that wisdom in in the value of meditating on God's word while seeking the Holy Spirit. I wish to spend my "free cycles" thinking about God's laws and precepts and teaching and guidance. I desire to truly think deeply and regularly about God, and part of this is to release and cease the other thoughts in my head at night.
But I bought this wisdom at a price, and it wasn't cheap. I paid for this wisdom with ... lost security in life, the destruction of my professional reputation, a total disruption and permanent loss of my career, the removal of both station and title, elimination of several professional relationships, and the long-term loss of seven figures in money. This wisdom has been costly. For that reason, I better remember that it is amazingly valuable! It cost me a lot, and therefore needs to be treasured, remembered, embraced, and observed.
And the truth is, this wisdom cost me ONLY in earthly terms. Everything above - from reputation to position to money - is relevant only within the value structure of worldly life. Those things that are eternal ... true and Godly friends, a loving family, personal happiness, heavenly blessing, and opportunity to serve the Lord ... I did not lose one single sliver of any of these.
Everything of God, with eternal value, I kept. Everything of earthly and temporal consequence, I paid. And with it, I got wisdom. Maybe I didn't know I was doing it at the time, but ... I sold everything I had to buy the one pearl. I will now cherish and embrace it.
Prayer: Lord, as I said last night, please bring your spirit to strengthen me every day. I fix my heart and mind on you and your laws, precepts, and instruction. I strive to set aside all other thoughts. I now rejoice that I was able to sell the worthless clutter of this world in order to find the eternal treasure I lacked. May my life serve you. Amen.
The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom.
Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
Cherish her, and she will exalt you;
embrace her, and she will honor you.
Proverbs 4:7-8
Observation: Per the writer of Proverbs, the start of wisdom is ... to get wisdom. It is first wise to seek wisdom and understanding. Or to say it a different way, the first step in understanding the will of God is to wish to understand the will of God. For this, we should be willing to give up everything. Then, with wisdom, if we hold onto and cling fast to that wisdom, we will be honored through that wisdom and understanding.
Application: This is what I was really praying last night. I have recently acquired wisdom, and that wisdom in in the value of meditating on God's word while seeking the Holy Spirit. I wish to spend my "free cycles" thinking about God's laws and precepts and teaching and guidance. I desire to truly think deeply and regularly about God, and part of this is to release and cease the other thoughts in my head at night.
But I bought this wisdom at a price, and it wasn't cheap. I paid for this wisdom with ... lost security in life, the destruction of my professional reputation, a total disruption and permanent loss of my career, the removal of both station and title, elimination of several professional relationships, and the long-term loss of seven figures in money. This wisdom has been costly. For that reason, I better remember that it is amazingly valuable! It cost me a lot, and therefore needs to be treasured, remembered, embraced, and observed.
And the truth is, this wisdom cost me ONLY in earthly terms. Everything above - from reputation to position to money - is relevant only within the value structure of worldly life. Those things that are eternal ... true and Godly friends, a loving family, personal happiness, heavenly blessing, and opportunity to serve the Lord ... I did not lose one single sliver of any of these.
Everything of God, with eternal value, I kept. Everything of earthly and temporal consequence, I paid. And with it, I got wisdom. Maybe I didn't know I was doing it at the time, but ... I sold everything I had to buy the one pearl. I will now cherish and embrace it.
Prayer: Lord, as I said last night, please bring your spirit to strengthen me every day. I fix my heart and mind on you and your laws, precepts, and instruction. I strive to set aside all other thoughts. I now rejoice that I was able to sell the worthless clutter of this world in order to find the eternal treasure I lacked. May my life serve you. Amen.
Friday, February 1, 2019
The Revisionist History Perspective
Scripture:
Is not your wickedness great?
Are not your sins endless?
You demanded security from your relatives for no reason;
you stripped people of their clothing, leaving them naked.
You gave no water to the weary
and you withheld food from the hungry,
though you were a powerful man, owning land—
an honored man, living on it.
And you sent widows away empty-handed
and broke the strength of the fatherless.
Job 22:5-9
Observation: As Job's friends continue to assess Job's condition, they make up significant accusations. They now say Job's sins are "endless" ... he sinned against his own family, the poor, the weary, widows, orphans ... he is outright wicked!! These accusations outline a downright mean person who is being righteously punished. And of course the issue is that none of it is true. Job was, in fact, loving toward family and strangers, and was held up by God himself as the example of goodness.
Application: This is, I'm sure, what people think of me ... that I was punished for my wrongdoing. It doesn't matter if it has any alignment to facts. Job's friends know he was a very good man, and now accuse him of endless wickedness for no reason other than they believe God is punishing him and therefore they are retroactively rewriting what they know of Job. Again, I'm sure this is what some people did about me. They believe I am not a good man because of "punishment" regardless of what they knew of me.
I know God does not punish. He may correct, and he certainly uses the world to teach us. And I have learned. I will never dwell on what people may now think of me. I will instead live for the only audience that matters. I will seek a life that pleases only God. I will find where I can serve the Lord and then serve him. Others may think what they like.
Prayer: Lord, I declare it today, you are the only one whom I seek to serve and honor. I will do this by loving your people, and striving to do you will. Please guide my life, hourly, daily, and long term. May I do your will alone. Amen.
Is not your wickedness great?
Are not your sins endless?
You demanded security from your relatives for no reason;
you stripped people of their clothing, leaving them naked.
You gave no water to the weary
and you withheld food from the hungry,
though you were a powerful man, owning land—
an honored man, living on it.
And you sent widows away empty-handed
and broke the strength of the fatherless.
Job 22:5-9
Observation: As Job's friends continue to assess Job's condition, they make up significant accusations. They now say Job's sins are "endless" ... he sinned against his own family, the poor, the weary, widows, orphans ... he is outright wicked!! These accusations outline a downright mean person who is being righteously punished. And of course the issue is that none of it is true. Job was, in fact, loving toward family and strangers, and was held up by God himself as the example of goodness.
Application: This is, I'm sure, what people think of me ... that I was punished for my wrongdoing. It doesn't matter if it has any alignment to facts. Job's friends know he was a very good man, and now accuse him of endless wickedness for no reason other than they believe God is punishing him and therefore they are retroactively rewriting what they know of Job. Again, I'm sure this is what some people did about me. They believe I am not a good man because of "punishment" regardless of what they knew of me.
I know God does not punish. He may correct, and he certainly uses the world to teach us. And I have learned. I will never dwell on what people may now think of me. I will instead live for the only audience that matters. I will seek a life that pleases only God. I will find where I can serve the Lord and then serve him. Others may think what they like.
Prayer: Lord, I declare it today, you are the only one whom I seek to serve and honor. I will do this by loving your people, and striving to do you will. Please guide my life, hourly, daily, and long term. May I do your will alone. Amen.
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