Scripture:
Your hands have shaped me and made me completely,
yet You destroy me.
Remember, I pray,
that You have made me as the clay.
And would You return me to dust?
Have You not poured me out as milk
and curdled me like cheese?
You have clothed me with skin and flesh,
and have knit me together with bones and sinews.
You have granted me life and loyal love,
and Your care has preserved my spirit.
Job 10:8-12
Observation: Job makes a direct appeal to God about his situation, which can be summarized in three statements: I have tried to live a good life; Please remember that you created me; It would be better if you ignored me. In other words, Job has sunk to the level of appealing to God to just leave him be. Job himself is simply a humble part of God's creation, and while he cannot understand the judgment that is playing out upon him it would be better to simply to ignored.
This of course isn't true. First, it assumes the sorrow of Job is both a punishment, and from God. It isn't. In fact, the problems are a result of God removing his blessing and protection. It is effectively the result of what Job is asking for ... God removed his attentions as a blessed part of creation from Job.
Application: In my freewill, I once asked God to leave me alone. The amazing thing is that ... he did, but he didn't. He removed his love from my daily life, but I later saw that he always engaged when I needed him. Like Job, it seems that both those who believe in God and those who don't believe have an interaction with God where - when we are acknowledging that we are sinful beings - seek isolation from God. This idea goes back to Adam, who upon discovering the difference between good and evil immediately hid from God.
It takes a unique character to look toward God in our iniquity - to seek his light in the self-realization of our own darkness. That is where Jesus comes in as intermediary. Jesus is a person who we can turn to, and who in turn leads us into the light by promising the removal of our sins through belief in him.
Prayer: Dear Lord, may we always keep sight of the fact that our nature is to flee from your perfect love because of our awareness of our imperfection. This is true for non-believers, believers, and myself. Help me to always and immediately seek Jesus when this impulse strikes. Do not let me flee into the dark and thus be susceptible to Satan, but rather let me cling to the hand of Jesus, my rock and foundation. Amen.
Friday, October 21, 2016
Wednesday, October 19, 2016
The Connotation of 'Christian'
Scripture: Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul. When he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a considerable crowd. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. Acts 11:25-26
Observation: While it is difficult to tell based on the timeline of Acts, Barnabas' preaching in Antioch is likely ~12 years after Jesus' resurrection. This accounts for the time of the church being established in Jerusalem before it was scattered (3 years), then the events of the scattered apostles, conversion of Saul, and his time of learning. It says Barnabas and Saul spent at least another year in Antioch. (Wikipedia says Barnabas returned from Antioch to Jerusalem in 44 AD.)
It was here - in modern Turkey - the word "Christian" was born. Prior to that, believers were referred to by phrases like "followers of The Way". It took a decade for someone to decide to "classify" them. Other people groups were classified - Jews, Romans, Greeks, Hellenists, Gentiles - and these classifications usually revolved around a nationality.
By labeling the believers Christians, the residents of Antioch have bestowed a status on the Church. That status, it seems, is double-edged. On the positive side, it gives the Church a standing as a people-group. It indicates it is large enough to require acknowledgment as a collective set of people with their own culture. On the negative side, it allows other to use a single word to establish a collective definition of the Church. Words like "roman" had a connotation to it, and now "Christian" can connote a meaning about believers. Individuals can be described by the stereotypes of the whole.
Application: Our modern challenge with this is that we - Christians - lost control of defining that stereotype of our own name. At one time, Christian would have meant someone who loves others. Now, in American culture it is more likely to be used as a slur for someone who is perceived to be intolerant of certain lifestyles.
I mean ... I guess it could be worse ... it could be used to connote a soldier killing over foreign land control (hello, Crusades) ... or it could refer to someone who tortures others to force public confessions of sin (no one expects the Spanish Inquisition!!). Intolerant isn't the worst thing I've been called (and neither is "conservative" by the way).
And this does speak to what I have been thinking about - a topic I heard Rick Warren talk about - which is 'source of authority'. What Christian REALLY means is this: I have decided that Jesus is my source of authority, as defined by the word of God in the bible, in determining my opinion and position on all matters. That means my 'source of authority' is NOT ... culture, friends, tradition, political leaders, my parents, my spouse or even ... myself.
I am a Christian. Jesus is my source of authority. That will put me in conflict with culture, popular opinion, tradition, other individuals, and even my own desires. So be it.
Prayer: Lord, you are my guide, my Lord, my master. Jesus is not just my savior, but my authority. I have prayed to you about my fear, but my fear is only an emotion to be put aside. You are my master, and I have granted you authority in my life. I thank you for the right you gave me, out of your great love, to make that choice of my own free will. I have and do so choose to follow you, Jesus. Amen.
Observation: While it is difficult to tell based on the timeline of Acts, Barnabas' preaching in Antioch is likely ~12 years after Jesus' resurrection. This accounts for the time of the church being established in Jerusalem before it was scattered (3 years), then the events of the scattered apostles, conversion of Saul, and his time of learning. It says Barnabas and Saul spent at least another year in Antioch. (Wikipedia says Barnabas returned from Antioch to Jerusalem in 44 AD.)
It was here - in modern Turkey - the word "Christian" was born. Prior to that, believers were referred to by phrases like "followers of The Way". It took a decade for someone to decide to "classify" them. Other people groups were classified - Jews, Romans, Greeks, Hellenists, Gentiles - and these classifications usually revolved around a nationality.
By labeling the believers Christians, the residents of Antioch have bestowed a status on the Church. That status, it seems, is double-edged. On the positive side, it gives the Church a standing as a people-group. It indicates it is large enough to require acknowledgment as a collective set of people with their own culture. On the negative side, it allows other to use a single word to establish a collective definition of the Church. Words like "roman" had a connotation to it, and now "Christian" can connote a meaning about believers. Individuals can be described by the stereotypes of the whole.
Application: Our modern challenge with this is that we - Christians - lost control of defining that stereotype of our own name. At one time, Christian would have meant someone who loves others. Now, in American culture it is more likely to be used as a slur for someone who is perceived to be intolerant of certain lifestyles.
I mean ... I guess it could be worse ... it could be used to connote a soldier killing over foreign land control (hello, Crusades) ... or it could refer to someone who tortures others to force public confessions of sin (no one expects the Spanish Inquisition!!). Intolerant isn't the worst thing I've been called (and neither is "conservative" by the way).
And this does speak to what I have been thinking about - a topic I heard Rick Warren talk about - which is 'source of authority'. What Christian REALLY means is this: I have decided that Jesus is my source of authority, as defined by the word of God in the bible, in determining my opinion and position on all matters. That means my 'source of authority' is NOT ... culture, friends, tradition, political leaders, my parents, my spouse or even ... myself.
I am a Christian. Jesus is my source of authority. That will put me in conflict with culture, popular opinion, tradition, other individuals, and even my own desires. So be it.
Prayer: Lord, you are my guide, my Lord, my master. Jesus is not just my savior, but my authority. I have prayed to you about my fear, but my fear is only an emotion to be put aside. You are my master, and I have granted you authority in my life. I thank you for the right you gave me, out of your great love, to make that choice of my own free will. I have and do so choose to follow you, Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, October 18, 2016
Rue the Day
Scripture: After this Job opened his mouth, and cursed the day of his birth. Job said: ...
Why did I not die at birth?
Why did I not expire when I came out of the womb?
Why did her knees receive me?
And why her breasts that I should nurse?
For now I would be lying down and would be at peace;
I would have slept; then there would be rest for me,
with kings and counselors of the earth,
who built ruins for themselves,
or with princes who had gold,
who filled their houses with silver.
Job 3:1-2,11-15
Observation: The first words of Job's lament over his fate is to wish he had never been born. He proceeds to wish the day itself never existed, that the date would be expunged from record, and the day and night itself would be cursed. It is not a wish for non-existence, but rather for a "pass" from earthly life. Job wishes to simply be dead in the place of resting and peace, and therefore for the day he was born to have never existed.
This is an interesting "first target" for Job because it truly has no relevance or bearing on his situation or events. His birth provided him his entire life, which up until the most current events was very good. He does not lash out at the fate of his recent life, or at current events, or at the storm that killed his children, or even at thieves who took his livelihood and killed his servants. There are actual people whom Job could "blame". Instead, he goes after a somewhat irrelevant date in history.
Job is so distraught in life that he simply takes the "it would be better if I were never born" mantra. However, this approach again shows his piety. Even in his great sorrow, Job refused to blame anything that is of God. People and nature - the good and the bad - are the perfect creation of God, so Job does not attack the wicked people or bad circumstances. He instead curses the calendar, a man-made contrivance for marking history.
Application: I worship God, love Jesus, and lament his creation and created. I get mad and frustrated with people who are trying to just go about their business, let alone those who are wicked. I dislike a lot, and most of it is stuff God created. This cannot be.
As I continue to seek to soften my heart, I must include my attitude toward God's creation. "Stuff" cannot be hated if I claim to love God who made the stuff.
Prayer: Abba, father, thank you for this day, and for your great gifts. Please forgive me for not being a good steward of all you have provided, from my daily bread, to the earth around me, to people in my midst. May I love them all today with just a little bit of your great love. Amen.
Why did I not die at birth?
Why did I not expire when I came out of the womb?
Why did her knees receive me?
And why her breasts that I should nurse?
For now I would be lying down and would be at peace;
I would have slept; then there would be rest for me,
with kings and counselors of the earth,
who built ruins for themselves,
or with princes who had gold,
who filled their houses with silver.
Job 3:1-2,11-15
Observation: The first words of Job's lament over his fate is to wish he had never been born. He proceeds to wish the day itself never existed, that the date would be expunged from record, and the day and night itself would be cursed. It is not a wish for non-existence, but rather for a "pass" from earthly life. Job wishes to simply be dead in the place of resting and peace, and therefore for the day he was born to have never existed.
This is an interesting "first target" for Job because it truly has no relevance or bearing on his situation or events. His birth provided him his entire life, which up until the most current events was very good. He does not lash out at the fate of his recent life, or at current events, or at the storm that killed his children, or even at thieves who took his livelihood and killed his servants. There are actual people whom Job could "blame". Instead, he goes after a somewhat irrelevant date in history.
Job is so distraught in life that he simply takes the "it would be better if I were never born" mantra. However, this approach again shows his piety. Even in his great sorrow, Job refused to blame anything that is of God. People and nature - the good and the bad - are the perfect creation of God, so Job does not attack the wicked people or bad circumstances. He instead curses the calendar, a man-made contrivance for marking history.
Application: I worship God, love Jesus, and lament his creation and created. I get mad and frustrated with people who are trying to just go about their business, let alone those who are wicked. I dislike a lot, and most of it is stuff God created. This cannot be.
As I continue to seek to soften my heart, I must include my attitude toward God's creation. "Stuff" cannot be hated if I claim to love God who made the stuff.
Prayer: Abba, father, thank you for this day, and for your great gifts. Please forgive me for not being a good steward of all you have provided, from my daily bread, to the earth around me, to people in my midst. May I love them all today with just a little bit of your great love. Amen.
Monday, October 17, 2016
Evidence of the Spirit
Scripture: Now in those days, as the disciples were multiplied, there was murmuring among the Hellenists against the Hebrews, because their widows were overlooked in the daily distribution. So the twelve called the multitude of disciples together and said, "It is not reasonable for us to leave the word of God and serve tables. Brothers, look among yourselves for seven men who are known to be full of the Holy Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint over this duty." Acts 6:1
Observation: The first conflict in the Church is ... racial tension between Hebrew Jews and Greek Jews. We know the resolution is the selection of deacons - members who will care for other members, especially the disadvantaged ones. It is interesting to note the following characteristics of these deacons:
-- They were not selected from the Hellenists - the racial minority - but rather from the group at large.
-- They were not explicitly people who cared about the issues at hand, but rather were full of the Holy Spirit and of wisdom.
In other words, the Church didn't look for people with passion for the issue, or a personal connection to the problem. They looked for people filled with the Holy Spirit, to therefore trust God working through those individuals to assist with the challenge.
Application: If I sincerely desire more of the Spirit in my life, I need to be open to being called into situations I don't necessary care about. This, in fact, would be the effect - not the cause - of a spirit-filled life ... being asked by leadership to do things I am not particularly interested in doing.
Stephen and Philip probably fall into this category. They are called into service to Greek widows. Stephen is clearly a scholar and great apologist (evidenced by his conviction of the Sanhedrin in chapter 7). Philip is a great evangelist (as we learn in chapter 8). In the church, we may consider these to be "more important" gifts or functions than ensuring a balanced disbursement of food to the weaker members of a minority ethnic group. However, the lesson here is the opposite ... it is the power of the Holy Spirit that enables those obvious gifts that also make someone capable to mercy and humble service.
I earnestly need to take this to heart.
Prayer: Dear Lord, today I pray into Micah 6:8. I want to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with you every day. I see this must play out in my spirit-life, and be fulfilled in my service-life. I will be open to your call and your voice, both within and outside the context of the Body of Christ. Amen.
Observation: The first conflict in the Church is ... racial tension between Hebrew Jews and Greek Jews. We know the resolution is the selection of deacons - members who will care for other members, especially the disadvantaged ones. It is interesting to note the following characteristics of these deacons:
-- They were not selected from the Hellenists - the racial minority - but rather from the group at large.
-- They were not explicitly people who cared about the issues at hand, but rather were full of the Holy Spirit and of wisdom.
In other words, the Church didn't look for people with passion for the issue, or a personal connection to the problem. They looked for people filled with the Holy Spirit, to therefore trust God working through those individuals to assist with the challenge.
Application: If I sincerely desire more of the Spirit in my life, I need to be open to being called into situations I don't necessary care about. This, in fact, would be the effect - not the cause - of a spirit-filled life ... being asked by leadership to do things I am not particularly interested in doing.
Stephen and Philip probably fall into this category. They are called into service to Greek widows. Stephen is clearly a scholar and great apologist (evidenced by his conviction of the Sanhedrin in chapter 7). Philip is a great evangelist (as we learn in chapter 8). In the church, we may consider these to be "more important" gifts or functions than ensuring a balanced disbursement of food to the weaker members of a minority ethnic group. However, the lesson here is the opposite ... it is the power of the Holy Spirit that enables those obvious gifts that also make someone capable to mercy and humble service.
I earnestly need to take this to heart.
Prayer: Dear Lord, today I pray into Micah 6:8. I want to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with you every day. I see this must play out in my spirit-life, and be fulfilled in my service-life. I will be open to your call and your voice, both within and outside the context of the Body of Christ. Amen.
Thursday, October 13, 2016
Scattered Infrastructure
Scripture: Now dwelling in Jerusalem were Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. Acts 2:5
Observation: "Jews" now live in EVERY nation. This is much different than the nation of Israel from the Old Testament, who represented one people group living in one land. While a Jew might live anywhere, they really lived in Israel and Judah, and even more explicitly within their designated land of their tribe. Now they live everywhere, and there are two reasons for this.
First, the two exiles - Israel at the hands of Assyria, and Judah at the hands of Persia - scattered them. When the exiles return after 70 years, that is primarily the tribe of Judah returning to Jerusalem. For others, who are now second and third generation families without roots in the Holy Land, they could have by then be anywhere.
Second, Jews are no longer synonymous with Hebrews. Rather, a Jew is a religion now. This is why Paul will preach in synagogues all over the Mediterranean area. While certainly all Hebrews and Jewish, it would seem not all Jews are Hebrews.
Application: Again I see how God uses every situation for his purposes. Israel rejects God so he punishes them. Five hundred years later, that punishment created the infrastructure that facilitated the Church of Jesus to grow. By scattering Israel and Judah, a network was created that allowed apostles to travel, establish common connections, and introduce Jesus through a common faith in both Jehovah and scriptures that promised a Messiah. We eventually see this play out in Greece, Rome, Spain ... places that believe in Jesus sometimes before an apostle even gets there to teach them ... but also in places like India and Ethiopia.
Again, God uses every situation for his purposes, and it is amazing to see.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I know you are always with us, never forsaking us, and in control of every situation. When things look dark, we know you are the light. May we look to you for that hope, but also may we be patient and trusting as we wait upon your timing. Amen.
Observation: "Jews" now live in EVERY nation. This is much different than the nation of Israel from the Old Testament, who represented one people group living in one land. While a Jew might live anywhere, they really lived in Israel and Judah, and even more explicitly within their designated land of their tribe. Now they live everywhere, and there are two reasons for this.
First, the two exiles - Israel at the hands of Assyria, and Judah at the hands of Persia - scattered them. When the exiles return after 70 years, that is primarily the tribe of Judah returning to Jerusalem. For others, who are now second and third generation families without roots in the Holy Land, they could have by then be anywhere.
Second, Jews are no longer synonymous with Hebrews. Rather, a Jew is a religion now. This is why Paul will preach in synagogues all over the Mediterranean area. While certainly all Hebrews and Jewish, it would seem not all Jews are Hebrews.
Application: Again I see how God uses every situation for his purposes. Israel rejects God so he punishes them. Five hundred years later, that punishment created the infrastructure that facilitated the Church of Jesus to grow. By scattering Israel and Judah, a network was created that allowed apostles to travel, establish common connections, and introduce Jesus through a common faith in both Jehovah and scriptures that promised a Messiah. We eventually see this play out in Greece, Rome, Spain ... places that believe in Jesus sometimes before an apostle even gets there to teach them ... but also in places like India and Ethiopia.
Again, God uses every situation for his purposes, and it is amazing to see.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I know you are always with us, never forsaking us, and in control of every situation. When things look dark, we know you are the light. May we look to you for that hope, but also may we be patient and trusting as we wait upon your timing. Amen.
Wednesday, October 12, 2016
Some Translation Needed
Scripture: Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people (because he was above all the people), and, as he opened it, all the people stood up. When Ezra blessed the Lord as the great God, all the people responded “Amen, Amen!” By lifting up their hands as they bowed their heads, they worshipped the Lord with their faces to the ground. Then Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, explained the Law to the people while the people stood in their place. They read from the book, from the Law of God, with interpretation, and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading. Nehemiah 8:5-8
Observation: Ezra is reading the scriptures to all the remnant that has returned after the exile. However, while reading, 13 other people need to "explain" the law. This explanation is described as 'interpretation'. This was not that the people need to be teaching independent of the word of God - the people weren't having a more detailed explanation of what the law meant or having the plain meaning interpreted for them by a priest. Instead, this is a literal interpretation ... the scriptures were written in Hebrew, and after 70 years of exile the people all speak Aramaic.
This must have been devastating for the returning Jews. They have survived, they have rebuilt Jerusalem, and they are about to celebrate. Their priest begins reading the Law of Moses - the word of God, explicitly documented by Moses, that is to be the cornerstone and foundation of their lives ... the word that they failed to follow that lead to their destruction and now they must not stray again - and they don't speak their own national language well enough to understand it.
The Jews always functioned as independent clans within independent tribes, and even within two different nations. However, they were united by three things: Their designation as God's "chosen" people through ancestry from Abraham; Their traditions and behaviors under The Law; Their own language. God removed his favor because they forsook the Law, and now they find a barrier to recovering those things ... they have lost their language too.
Application: When it comes to understanding Jesus, God, the Bible, we ALL need some translation. In some cases, that translation is language-based ... words in Hebrew and Greek just aren't the same and even English translations disagree on the nuanced meaning of some words and phrases. More often, the translation we need is cultural ... we think in terms of our known world and culture, and thus need help understanding the intent of God's teaching.
I would love "we" here to mean "others and especially non-believers", but of course "we" includes "me". I need help understanding. I don't know it all, and many times what I "know" is bound to a personal interpretation, understanding, or experience that may not be correct.
I need to more regularly turn to the Holy Spirit for that interpretation. Yes, I believe pastors and other Christians can guide me too, but I do not trust in the Holy Spirit often enough for guidance and life-lessons. I need to lean into the Spirit more often, pray into the Spirit's teaching and knowledge and wisdom, and seek the Spirit's instruction and guidance more often.
Prayer: Lord, I often ask for your Spirit to be with me. However, then I don't seek to interact with the Holy Spirit. May I not just be "Spirit filled", but "Spirit lead". May I listen to the voice, trust in the Spirit's guidance, and allow him to interpret your word for me. Amen.
Observation: Ezra is reading the scriptures to all the remnant that has returned after the exile. However, while reading, 13 other people need to "explain" the law. This explanation is described as 'interpretation'. This was not that the people need to be teaching independent of the word of God - the people weren't having a more detailed explanation of what the law meant or having the plain meaning interpreted for them by a priest. Instead, this is a literal interpretation ... the scriptures were written in Hebrew, and after 70 years of exile the people all speak Aramaic.
This must have been devastating for the returning Jews. They have survived, they have rebuilt Jerusalem, and they are about to celebrate. Their priest begins reading the Law of Moses - the word of God, explicitly documented by Moses, that is to be the cornerstone and foundation of their lives ... the word that they failed to follow that lead to their destruction and now they must not stray again - and they don't speak their own national language well enough to understand it.
The Jews always functioned as independent clans within independent tribes, and even within two different nations. However, they were united by three things: Their designation as God's "chosen" people through ancestry from Abraham; Their traditions and behaviors under The Law; Their own language. God removed his favor because they forsook the Law, and now they find a barrier to recovering those things ... they have lost their language too.
Application: When it comes to understanding Jesus, God, the Bible, we ALL need some translation. In some cases, that translation is language-based ... words in Hebrew and Greek just aren't the same and even English translations disagree on the nuanced meaning of some words and phrases. More often, the translation we need is cultural ... we think in terms of our known world and culture, and thus need help understanding the intent of God's teaching.
I would love "we" here to mean "others and especially non-believers", but of course "we" includes "me". I need help understanding. I don't know it all, and many times what I "know" is bound to a personal interpretation, understanding, or experience that may not be correct.
I need to more regularly turn to the Holy Spirit for that interpretation. Yes, I believe pastors and other Christians can guide me too, but I do not trust in the Holy Spirit often enough for guidance and life-lessons. I need to lean into the Spirit more often, pray into the Spirit's teaching and knowledge and wisdom, and seek the Spirit's instruction and guidance more often.
Prayer: Lord, I often ask for your Spirit to be with me. However, then I don't seek to interact with the Holy Spirit. May I not just be "Spirit filled", but "Spirit lead". May I listen to the voice, trust in the Spirit's guidance, and allow him to interpret your word for me. Amen.
Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Unelected
Scripture:
While I live I will praise the Lord;
I will sing praises unto my God while I have my life.
Do not put your trust in princes,
nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help.
His breath leaves him, and he returns to the earth;
on that very day his plans perish.
Psalms 146:2-4
Observation: Plain and simple ... put your trust in God, not in rulers, princes, presidents, leaders, officials, or any man or woman of the earth.
Application: I am downright distraught over the upcoming election. We are going to elect a person wholly unfit from almost every perspective. It is going to be bad. However, the scriptures remind us over and over again - I am not to place my trust in any elected person anyway. My trust is in the Lord, and the Lord alone. He is my leader, and my hope. He can work his will through whomever and under any circumstance.
My leader isn't elected, and cannot be unelected.
Prayer: Lord, I lift to you our nation and its leaders. On the face of it, we are heading into a dangerous situation. However, you are the Lord of all things, including this nation and its people. You are the only one in control, and your purposes will be carried out on earth regardless of the plots of men. Please be with us through these troubled and divided time, protecting your faithful, feeding the hungry, lifting the downtrodden, releasing those imprisoned by vice and addiction, caring for the fatherless and the widows, and providing justice to all, love for the righteous, and disaster on the wicked. Amen.
While I live I will praise the Lord;
I will sing praises unto my God while I have my life.
Do not put your trust in princes,
nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help.
His breath leaves him, and he returns to the earth;
on that very day his plans perish.
Psalms 146:2-4
Observation: Plain and simple ... put your trust in God, not in rulers, princes, presidents, leaders, officials, or any man or woman of the earth.
Application: I am downright distraught over the upcoming election. We are going to elect a person wholly unfit from almost every perspective. It is going to be bad. However, the scriptures remind us over and over again - I am not to place my trust in any elected person anyway. My trust is in the Lord, and the Lord alone. He is my leader, and my hope. He can work his will through whomever and under any circumstance.
My leader isn't elected, and cannot be unelected.
Prayer: Lord, I lift to you our nation and its leaders. On the face of it, we are heading into a dangerous situation. However, you are the Lord of all things, including this nation and its people. You are the only one in control, and your purposes will be carried out on earth regardless of the plots of men. Please be with us through these troubled and divided time, protecting your faithful, feeding the hungry, lifting the downtrodden, releasing those imprisoned by vice and addiction, caring for the fatherless and the widows, and providing justice to all, love for the righteous, and disaster on the wicked. Amen.
Monday, October 10, 2016
Mixed Lies
Scripture: Then the whole assembly rose and led him off to Pilate. And they began to accuse him, saying, “We have found this man subverting our nation. He opposes payment of taxes to Caesar and claims to be Messiah, a king.” Luke 23:1-2
Observation: Jesus is accused before Pilot of three things:
Claiming to be Messiah - Jesus did state he was Messiah, which was a valid statement ... it would have been only a crime against the Jews to claim Messiahship if you were not the Messiah.
Subverting 'our' nation - Jesus never subverted any nation or government, though he did oppose the invalid laws imposed by religious leaders and had others who agreed with him.
Opposing payment of taxes - Jesus never did this.
In other words, of these three things, one is a truthful statement, one is a twisted statement, and one is an outright lie. And this is how, in a dispute of the church, one can tell the difference between the just and the unjust. The just will either answer valid questions or remain silent before invalid questions (Jesus does both).
The unjust, however, will make three types of accusations. The will make accusations that are observably truthful though not a wrongdoing unless some other condition applies. They will make misleading accusations by exaggerating a specific fact. And they will outright lie, but do so only in the context of the other two, thus making people who may believe one of the other accusations also believe the lie.
Application: I have discussed this FAR too much in the last two months ... a just claim from a spirit-filled person never contains a lie. Never. The spirit cannot lie. I am glad to see the biblical support for this concept today, and understand how lies intermix with other types of invalid claims. Again, this reinforces what I have known.
Prayer: Lord, please do continue to bless Evergreen Church, and our leaders, pastors, and elders. May our mission in the world bring glory always and only to you. Not upon any man, but may our light only reflect the love of Jesus. Amen.
Observation: Jesus is accused before Pilot of three things:
Claiming to be Messiah - Jesus did state he was Messiah, which was a valid statement ... it would have been only a crime against the Jews to claim Messiahship if you were not the Messiah.
Subverting 'our' nation - Jesus never subverted any nation or government, though he did oppose the invalid laws imposed by religious leaders and had others who agreed with him.
Opposing payment of taxes - Jesus never did this.
In other words, of these three things, one is a truthful statement, one is a twisted statement, and one is an outright lie. And this is how, in a dispute of the church, one can tell the difference between the just and the unjust. The just will either answer valid questions or remain silent before invalid questions (Jesus does both).
The unjust, however, will make three types of accusations. The will make accusations that are observably truthful though not a wrongdoing unless some other condition applies. They will make misleading accusations by exaggerating a specific fact. And they will outright lie, but do so only in the context of the other two, thus making people who may believe one of the other accusations also believe the lie.
Application: I have discussed this FAR too much in the last two months ... a just claim from a spirit-filled person never contains a lie. Never. The spirit cannot lie. I am glad to see the biblical support for this concept today, and understand how lies intermix with other types of invalid claims. Again, this reinforces what I have known.
Prayer: Lord, please do continue to bless Evergreen Church, and our leaders, pastors, and elders. May our mission in the world bring glory always and only to you. Not upon any man, but may our light only reflect the love of Jesus. Amen.
Friday, October 7, 2016
Everybody's God
Scripture: This is a copy of the letter King Artaxerxes had given to Ezra the priest, a teacher of the Law, a man learned in matters concerning the commands and decrees of the Lord for Israel: Artaxerxes, king of kings, To Ezra the priest, teacher of the Law of the God of heaven: Greetings. Ezra 7:11-12
Observation: King Artaxerxes believes that Yahweh - the Lord of Israel - is the true God of heaven. He not only is sending Ezra with his tribute and sacrifices to God, but five times in this letter is declares the Lord as the God of heaven, and three times states God dwells in Jerusalem.
I have observed this before but is bears repeated acknowledgment: Throughout the Old Testament, people and nations that are NOT the Jews believe in Yahweh. They seek to understand him, declare him Lord, honor him, seek prayer and guidance from Levites and priests, and fear his wrath. God is never owned only by the Jews - he was always the God of the entire world. It was only that the Jews were entrusted with the Law, and 'blessed to be a blessing' to others.
Application: May I always remember that God is NOT just the God of Christians, and Jesus does not reserve his love only for those who love him.
The Lord is God of the entire world. His heart breaks for those who do not know him as much as it does for those who bow to him. He loves, rules, judges, blesses, watches, and listens to everyone, everywhere, always.
Jesus is the savior of the entire world. The offer for eternal salvation is open to all, and it is an offer extended as a first gesture, not one withheld until asked for. Salvation is available to those who currently reject Jesus, those who don't know Jesus, those who hate Jesus, and those who have never heard the good news of Jesus.
The Lord was Artaxerxes God of heaven ... he was God to a Persian king as much as he was God to Ezra, an all-knowledgeable priest of Judah. Today he is God to all, not just to us pious Christians.
Prayer: Dear father, I know my sins are deep. I continue to seek your forgiveness and your strength in repentance. I know you love me and I am forgiven through my faith in Jesus - a gift I cannot (and certainly do not) earn. Please also remain jealous for those far from you, for those who do not believe in Jesus or you, or are even hostile toward you. May their hearts turn, for as the only God you are in fact their God, whether they know you or not. Amen.
Observation: King Artaxerxes believes that Yahweh - the Lord of Israel - is the true God of heaven. He not only is sending Ezra with his tribute and sacrifices to God, but five times in this letter is declares the Lord as the God of heaven, and three times states God dwells in Jerusalem.
I have observed this before but is bears repeated acknowledgment: Throughout the Old Testament, people and nations that are NOT the Jews believe in Yahweh. They seek to understand him, declare him Lord, honor him, seek prayer and guidance from Levites and priests, and fear his wrath. God is never owned only by the Jews - he was always the God of the entire world. It was only that the Jews were entrusted with the Law, and 'blessed to be a blessing' to others.
Application: May I always remember that God is NOT just the God of Christians, and Jesus does not reserve his love only for those who love him.
The Lord is God of the entire world. His heart breaks for those who do not know him as much as it does for those who bow to him. He loves, rules, judges, blesses, watches, and listens to everyone, everywhere, always.
Jesus is the savior of the entire world. The offer for eternal salvation is open to all, and it is an offer extended as a first gesture, not one withheld until asked for. Salvation is available to those who currently reject Jesus, those who don't know Jesus, those who hate Jesus, and those who have never heard the good news of Jesus.
The Lord was Artaxerxes God of heaven ... he was God to a Persian king as much as he was God to Ezra, an all-knowledgeable priest of Judah. Today he is God to all, not just to us pious Christians.
Prayer: Dear father, I know my sins are deep. I continue to seek your forgiveness and your strength in repentance. I know you love me and I am forgiven through my faith in Jesus - a gift I cannot (and certainly do not) earn. Please also remain jealous for those far from you, for those who do not believe in Jesus or you, or are even hostile toward you. May their hearts turn, for as the only God you are in fact their God, whether they know you or not. Amen.
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Lifting Up My Heart
If you can calm the raging sea,
You can calm the storm in me.
You're never too far away,
You never show up too late.
So here I am lifting up my heart
To the one who holds the stars.
You can calm the storm in me.
You're never too far away,
You never show up too late.
So here I am lifting up my heart
To the one who holds the stars.
Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Fear of Losing
Scripture: When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was very wealthy. Jesus looked at him and said, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God! Indeed, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Those who heard this asked, “Who then can be saved?” Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” Luke 18:22-27
Observation: This commonly-referenced teaching from Jesus often focuses on the young, rich man who is told to sell all his possessions, becomes sad, and thus Jesus indicates it is hard for the rich to be saved. The teaching is often about the difficulty of sacrifice. However, there is another meaning here.
Jesus is actually telling the rich young man "try to buy your way into heaven by selling absolutely everything you have." He then points out that such an approach to salvation is impossible - like passing a camel through the eye of a needle. However ... God has another way!
The young man was told "you lack one thing" then told to give up everything. It was NOT the giving up of everything he lacked, it was the second part of the instructions ... come, follow Jesus!! The young man feared doing that one thing because of all his other possessions. Selling his riches would not enable salvation, but holding onto them got in the way of it.
Application: I follow Jesus, so what elements of my earthly life get in the way of my faith? The answer comes down to those items I'm afraid to lose. As I have said before, those things revolve around my family and what I have that makes my wife and children secure. Yes, I don't want to lose my job that pays for our house and tuition costs, which also means I don't want to lose my status/rate of pay. And I don't want to lose our house.
However, I also don't want to lose my free time, some of my recreation, our travel and freedom and money affords us. These are the selfish items that Jesus could reasonably ask of me. As a follower of Jesus, I need to prepare to give them up in order to make room for his call and work.
Prayer: Jesus, I know that I am saved through my faith in you. Thank you SO much for your amazing sacrifice, which bought me a priceless gift I could never earn and do not deserve! Please give me the courage to follow you deeper and deeper every day, and so I may better serve you here on earth. Amen.
Observation: This commonly-referenced teaching from Jesus often focuses on the young, rich man who is told to sell all his possessions, becomes sad, and thus Jesus indicates it is hard for the rich to be saved. The teaching is often about the difficulty of sacrifice. However, there is another meaning here.
Jesus is actually telling the rich young man "try to buy your way into heaven by selling absolutely everything you have." He then points out that such an approach to salvation is impossible - like passing a camel through the eye of a needle. However ... God has another way!
The young man was told "you lack one thing" then told to give up everything. It was NOT the giving up of everything he lacked, it was the second part of the instructions ... come, follow Jesus!! The young man feared doing that one thing because of all his other possessions. Selling his riches would not enable salvation, but holding onto them got in the way of it.
Application: I follow Jesus, so what elements of my earthly life get in the way of my faith? The answer comes down to those items I'm afraid to lose. As I have said before, those things revolve around my family and what I have that makes my wife and children secure. Yes, I don't want to lose my job that pays for our house and tuition costs, which also means I don't want to lose my status/rate of pay. And I don't want to lose our house.
However, I also don't want to lose my free time, some of my recreation, our travel and freedom and money affords us. These are the selfish items that Jesus could reasonably ask of me. As a follower of Jesus, I need to prepare to give them up in order to make room for his call and work.
Prayer: Jesus, I know that I am saved through my faith in you. Thank you SO much for your amazing sacrifice, which bought me a priceless gift I could never earn and do not deserve! Please give me the courage to follow you deeper and deeper every day, and so I may better serve you here on earth. Amen.
Tuesday, October 4, 2016
Doing Your Job
Scripture: Which of you, having a servant plowing or herding sheep, will say to him when he has come in from the field, ‘Come now and sit down for dinner’? Will he not rather say to him, ‘Prepare my supper, and dress yourself and serve me until I eat and drink. And afterward you will eat and drink’? Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? I think not. So you also, when you have done everything commanded you, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have done our duty.’ Luke 17:7-10
Observation: In discussing the function of faithful disciples, Jesus uses this metaphor of a servant. When a servant performs their duty, they are not then rewarded. Instead, they are assigned to their next task. No one celebrates the fact the servant got their work done, because it was simply expected of them. Jesus explicitly aligns this to the disciples, stating that when they have done everything commanded of them, they are simply to acknowledge that they are 'unprofitable servants' who have done their duty.
Application: When talking to God, have I ever pointed out to him that I should receive some reward due to my faith and belief? That is clearly non-biblical. In all parts of scripture, God rewards based on his own criteria. While he may bless those who believe, even that blessing may not be what we always expect. In the case of people like Noah, Lot, Job, David, Moses, Samson, Daniel ... often their 'blessing' is that their lives are spared (and sometimes not even that), while their homes are destroyed, their loved ones die, and their world is overturned.
The point of Jesus is that we do not serve for profit. We do not serve in order to receive the rewards. We serve - we do our job - period. We do so without worrying about our reward, or without even worrying about what is fair today. Earthly rewards and daily fairness are not part of the deal. The love of God and eternal promise is.
Prayer: Lord, I have had a terrible 18 hours. Please guide me in the next 8 hours to do your will. Help me to change lives positively, to value others, to dismiss the idea that things should be fair, and to serve your purposes out of my situations at work. Amen.
Observation: In discussing the function of faithful disciples, Jesus uses this metaphor of a servant. When a servant performs their duty, they are not then rewarded. Instead, they are assigned to their next task. No one celebrates the fact the servant got their work done, because it was simply expected of them. Jesus explicitly aligns this to the disciples, stating that when they have done everything commanded of them, they are simply to acknowledge that they are 'unprofitable servants' who have done their duty.
Application: When talking to God, have I ever pointed out to him that I should receive some reward due to my faith and belief? That is clearly non-biblical. In all parts of scripture, God rewards based on his own criteria. While he may bless those who believe, even that blessing may not be what we always expect. In the case of people like Noah, Lot, Job, David, Moses, Samson, Daniel ... often their 'blessing' is that their lives are spared (and sometimes not even that), while their homes are destroyed, their loved ones die, and their world is overturned.
The point of Jesus is that we do not serve for profit. We do not serve in order to receive the rewards. We serve - we do our job - period. We do so without worrying about our reward, or without even worrying about what is fair today. Earthly rewards and daily fairness are not part of the deal. The love of God and eternal promise is.
Prayer: Lord, I have had a terrible 18 hours. Please guide me in the next 8 hours to do your will. Help me to change lives positively, to value others, to dismiss the idea that things should be fair, and to serve your purposes out of my situations at work. Amen.
Friday, September 30, 2016
Lesson Not Learned
Scripture: Those in Bethel sent Sharezer and Regem-Melek and their men to entreat the graces of the Lord, saying to the priests and prophets of the house of the Lord of Hosts, “Should I weep and dedicate myself during the fifth month as I have done in these many years?” Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying: Say to all the people in the land and to the priests: When you fasted and lamented during the fifth and seventh months for these seventy years, did you really fast for Me? And when you eat and when you drink, do you not eat and drink for yourselves? Were these not the very words that the former prophets proclaimed when Jerusalem dwelled with ease along with her surrounding cities, and when the Negev and the Lowland were inhabited? And the word of the Lord came to Zechariah, saying: Thus says the Lord of Hosts: Execute true justice, show mercy and compassion, every man to his brother. Do not oppress the widow, orphan, sojourner, or poor. And let none of you contemplate evil deeds in your hearts against his brother. Zechariah 7:2-10
Observation: The remnant is just returning to Jerusalem, and immediately those in Bethel ask "does this mean we can stop our ritual mourning for the destruction of Jerusalem/Judah?" Similar (identical?) to the way Jesus answers questions about religious rituals, God's answer is in the form of a basic question ... "Why were you doing that in the first place?" And of course God knows the answer: They were doing these things for their own sake, and not to fulfill any command from - or worship to - God.
And just like that, God points out that the lesson was not learned. The Jews (especially in Judah) have always turned God into a set of ritual practices in the hopes of appeasing him. God destroyed Israel and Judah because he wanted them to return to him with love and relationship, and to honor him as their God, instead of treating him as just another lower-case-god they needed to appease in order to cover their butts. And when he is ready to relent, they come forward and ask if this means ... can they stop doing their NEW rituals they have been doing in order to cover their butts?
Application: I have stated before that I absolutely need to not rely on ritual, and to live my life out of my relationship with God and Jesus. I need to be about Micah 6:8, with behaviors taught in Romans 12. I need to walk humbly with my Lord every day, serving him with my body, mind, heart, and soul, as my true act of worship. I need to drive my actions out of justice and mercy, on a foundation of love for others.
I must not turn my relationship into religious "process" or a checklist. If I will only do his will, all the other things will take care of themselves.
Prayer: Again Lord, I ask that you protect me from evil attacks. I am clearly under attack, and I need your spirit and love as my strength and shield. I wish to only walk with you daily, taking the hand of my dad. Please allow me to simply engage in your work today. Amen.
Observation: The remnant is just returning to Jerusalem, and immediately those in Bethel ask "does this mean we can stop our ritual mourning for the destruction of Jerusalem/Judah?" Similar (identical?) to the way Jesus answers questions about religious rituals, God's answer is in the form of a basic question ... "Why were you doing that in the first place?" And of course God knows the answer: They were doing these things for their own sake, and not to fulfill any command from - or worship to - God.
And just like that, God points out that the lesson was not learned. The Jews (especially in Judah) have always turned God into a set of ritual practices in the hopes of appeasing him. God destroyed Israel and Judah because he wanted them to return to him with love and relationship, and to honor him as their God, instead of treating him as just another lower-case-god they needed to appease in order to cover their butts. And when he is ready to relent, they come forward and ask if this means ... can they stop doing their NEW rituals they have been doing in order to cover their butts?
Application: I have stated before that I absolutely need to not rely on ritual, and to live my life out of my relationship with God and Jesus. I need to be about Micah 6:8, with behaviors taught in Romans 12. I need to walk humbly with my Lord every day, serving him with my body, mind, heart, and soul, as my true act of worship. I need to drive my actions out of justice and mercy, on a foundation of love for others.
I must not turn my relationship into religious "process" or a checklist. If I will only do his will, all the other things will take care of themselves.
Prayer: Again Lord, I ask that you protect me from evil attacks. I am clearly under attack, and I need your spirit and love as my strength and shield. I wish to only walk with you daily, taking the hand of my dad. Please allow me to simply engage in your work today. Amen.
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
God's Unlimited Plan
Scripture: And I lifted up my eyes, and I saw a man with a measuring cord in his hand. And I said, “Where are you going?” And he responded, “To measure Jerusalem and to note what is its width and length.” Then the angel who was speaking with me went out, and then another angel came out to meet him, and said to him, “Run, say to this young man: Jerusalem will be inhabited as villages without walls, because of the multitude of men and animals in her. And I will be like a wall of fire all around her, says the Lord, and I will be as glory in her midst.” ... Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion, for I am coming and will dwell in your midst, says the Lord. And many nations will join themselves with the Lord in that day, and they will be My people. And I will reside in your midst, and you will know that the Lord of Hosts has sent Me to you. Zechariah 2:1-5,10-11
Observation: The Jews are about to be called back to Jerusalem after their 70 year exile, and Zechariah has this specific vision ... a worker is going to measure Jerusalem in order to determine its size and thus how many people can live there, however an angel intercedes. There will be no limit to the numbers that return and seek God! The city will overflow its walls, and be comprised of people from all nations - not just Jews - who will also all become the people of God.
This prophecy, of course, is not fulfilled immediately. At first, only Jews will return, and they will rebuild the city walls. When Jesus comes hundreds of years later, he will enter through those walls. It is not until the completion of the redemptive work of Jesus (prophesized in chapter 3) that faith will be extended to all nations and eventually Jerusalem will overflow.
However, even a holy vision attempted to put a limit on God's plan! This man is going to assume that God's plan for Jerusalem is to restore the remnant, but God's plan is actually to now redeem the entire world!! This will be the new thing he does ... not bring Israel back from the edge, but using that foundation to now draw the entire world out of the abyss.
Application: Even in doing God's work, I can aim too small. Like the man - a holy worker who is about to measure Jerusalem - I don't understand the real scope of God's plan. God says "are we ready to do this" and I say "yup, let me go work" ... and just like that, I'm doing the wrong thing. I'm putting limits on the plan due to my limited knowledge, understanding, and faith.
This applies to how I interact with people in the name of Jesus daily. This applies to service at church. This applies to my support of my wife and children. In all cases, I need to not just jump into action. I need to pray, seek God's true work, and join him in a grander plan.
Prayer: Abba, daddy, father, my Lord and God ... please forgive my human shortcomings. They manifest in my sins for certain, and I seek your forgiveness. However, my shortcomings can even manifest in my faithful action. I know you will not be limited by my limits. You cannot be contained in my constrained thinking. Again, please forgive my small thoughts and my small ways. I seek to know you better. Amen.
Observation: The Jews are about to be called back to Jerusalem after their 70 year exile, and Zechariah has this specific vision ... a worker is going to measure Jerusalem in order to determine its size and thus how many people can live there, however an angel intercedes. There will be no limit to the numbers that return and seek God! The city will overflow its walls, and be comprised of people from all nations - not just Jews - who will also all become the people of God.
This prophecy, of course, is not fulfilled immediately. At first, only Jews will return, and they will rebuild the city walls. When Jesus comes hundreds of years later, he will enter through those walls. It is not until the completion of the redemptive work of Jesus (prophesized in chapter 3) that faith will be extended to all nations and eventually Jerusalem will overflow.
However, even a holy vision attempted to put a limit on God's plan! This man is going to assume that God's plan for Jerusalem is to restore the remnant, but God's plan is actually to now redeem the entire world!! This will be the new thing he does ... not bring Israel back from the edge, but using that foundation to now draw the entire world out of the abyss.
Application: Even in doing God's work, I can aim too small. Like the man - a holy worker who is about to measure Jerusalem - I don't understand the real scope of God's plan. God says "are we ready to do this" and I say "yup, let me go work" ... and just like that, I'm doing the wrong thing. I'm putting limits on the plan due to my limited knowledge, understanding, and faith.
This applies to how I interact with people in the name of Jesus daily. This applies to service at church. This applies to my support of my wife and children. In all cases, I need to not just jump into action. I need to pray, seek God's true work, and join him in a grander plan.
Prayer: Abba, daddy, father, my Lord and God ... please forgive my human shortcomings. They manifest in my sins for certain, and I seek your forgiveness. However, my shortcomings can even manifest in my faithful action. I know you will not be limited by my limits. You cannot be contained in my constrained thinking. Again, please forgive my small thoughts and my small ways. I seek to know you better. Amen.
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
Step 1: Honor God
Scripture: Thus says the Lord of Hosts: These people say, The time has not yet come to rebuild the house of the Lord. Then the word of the Lord came by Haggai the prophet, saying: Is it time for you yourselves to live in paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? You looked for much, and it came to little; and when you brought it home, I blew it away. Why? says the Lord of Hosts. Because of My house that lies in ruins while each of you runs to his own house. Therefore the heavens above you have withheld the dew, and the earth has withheld its crops. Haggai 1:2-4,9-10
Observation: In this short book where the Lord commands the rebuilding of the temple, his first charge to the remnant who have returned to Jerusalem is this: You still struggle to make a living because you are taking care of yourself, but not honoring God.
At it's most basic, God says they have rebuilt their own houses, but not his temple. However, the temple is of course simply the earthly representation of a means to honor God. What God is really saying is that the returning remnant of rebuilt houses, planted crops, sown seed, planted vineyards and drank, begun their businesses ... yet have not done the work to honor God. In other words, in their daily activities and over a time that has lasted at least three years, they have looked every day to their own needs, and have not once put God first in their lives.
Application: This 'putting God first' charge in Haggai is not about the tithe. This is about daily walking-about life. This is a lesson that says "put God first in your work every day, then you can do the work you need to do with fruitfulness."
How do I put God first daily? I probably don't. Even by reading the bible first thing, that isn't about doing his work toward others, or actively putting him first at all times. Putting God first means doing his work as step 1 of every to-do list. It means entering meetings with a heart to serve others first then deal with business issues. It means caring about people, then the job. It doesn't mean NOT caring about the job or business issues ... it just means putting God first.
Prayer: Lord, I will seek to rebuild your temple where I am. I will seek to make your work my first order of business daily, hourly. Help me to keep you central in my heart as the starting point for that honor and service to you. May your will - not mine - be done. Amen.
Observation: In this short book where the Lord commands the rebuilding of the temple, his first charge to the remnant who have returned to Jerusalem is this: You still struggle to make a living because you are taking care of yourself, but not honoring God.
At it's most basic, God says they have rebuilt their own houses, but not his temple. However, the temple is of course simply the earthly representation of a means to honor God. What God is really saying is that the returning remnant of rebuilt houses, planted crops, sown seed, planted vineyards and drank, begun their businesses ... yet have not done the work to honor God. In other words, in their daily activities and over a time that has lasted at least three years, they have looked every day to their own needs, and have not once put God first in their lives.
Application: This 'putting God first' charge in Haggai is not about the tithe. This is about daily walking-about life. This is a lesson that says "put God first in your work every day, then you can do the work you need to do with fruitfulness."
How do I put God first daily? I probably don't. Even by reading the bible first thing, that isn't about doing his work toward others, or actively putting him first at all times. Putting God first means doing his work as step 1 of every to-do list. It means entering meetings with a heart to serve others first then deal with business issues. It means caring about people, then the job. It doesn't mean NOT caring about the job or business issues ... it just means putting God first.
Prayer: Lord, I will seek to rebuild your temple where I am. I will seek to make your work my first order of business daily, hourly. Help me to keep you central in my heart as the starting point for that honor and service to you. May your will - not mine - be done. Amen.
Monday, September 26, 2016
No Turning Back
Scripture: Yet another said, “Lord, I will follow You, but let me first go bid farewell to those at my house.” Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back at things is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:61-62
Observation: Jesus is very clear - if one is to follow him, they are not to look back at other things in their life.
While this specific example - saying goodbye to family - seems like an extreme example, it may not be based on the language used. The man who wishes to follow Jesus after saying goodbye is NOT saying "let me say farewell to my wife and kids." Rather, he wishes to bid farewell to "those at my house." This specific phrase could mean to go give directions to servants, or to look fondly one more time on his possessions before departing, or it might even mean to say farewell to idols. This certainly seems to be the manner in which Jesus responds.
In this context, the message of Jesus is clear and more complete. If someone is in fact a follower of Jesus, then those parts of their life that are in conflict with that faith - idol worship, honor to riches, and continued planning for the ongoing or future return to that life - must be all discarded. Following Jesus does, in fact, mean setting aside the old life, and never looking back at it.
Application: For all intents and purposes, I'm a total failure at this. I continually think of my past with some fondness. I seem too willing in my mind to think of old activities as fun, while forgetting the disastrous effect such things had on my life. Recently, I have realized more and more this is Satan attacking me directly. These are whispers intended to take me further from Jesus. I must, therefore, pray my way through them, direct my thoughts to things above, and focus on Jesus in my daily walk.
I must not look back on people I knew, or my old home, or the actions of my youth. I must put my hand to the plow and go straight forward. With Jesus' strength, I will.
Prayer: Lord, you are aware of my struggles. Please keep your spirit with me. I am in need of your strength. We know the attack that is being made on many in our church right now, and the enemy knows I am a weak link. Please make me strong for your sake and for your glory. Amen.
Observation: Jesus is very clear - if one is to follow him, they are not to look back at other things in their life.
While this specific example - saying goodbye to family - seems like an extreme example, it may not be based on the language used. The man who wishes to follow Jesus after saying goodbye is NOT saying "let me say farewell to my wife and kids." Rather, he wishes to bid farewell to "those at my house." This specific phrase could mean to go give directions to servants, or to look fondly one more time on his possessions before departing, or it might even mean to say farewell to idols. This certainly seems to be the manner in which Jesus responds.
In this context, the message of Jesus is clear and more complete. If someone is in fact a follower of Jesus, then those parts of their life that are in conflict with that faith - idol worship, honor to riches, and continued planning for the ongoing or future return to that life - must be all discarded. Following Jesus does, in fact, mean setting aside the old life, and never looking back at it.
Application: For all intents and purposes, I'm a total failure at this. I continually think of my past with some fondness. I seem too willing in my mind to think of old activities as fun, while forgetting the disastrous effect such things had on my life. Recently, I have realized more and more this is Satan attacking me directly. These are whispers intended to take me further from Jesus. I must, therefore, pray my way through them, direct my thoughts to things above, and focus on Jesus in my daily walk.
I must not look back on people I knew, or my old home, or the actions of my youth. I must put my hand to the plow and go straight forward. With Jesus' strength, I will.
Prayer: Lord, you are aware of my struggles. Please keep your spirit with me. I am in need of your strength. We know the attack that is being made on many in our church right now, and the enemy knows I am a weak link. Please make me strong for your sake and for your glory. Amen.
Friday, September 23, 2016
Just Another War
Every day we see just another ... destroyed life, murdered human, obliterated family, distraught community, mass explosion, grieving mother ...
We need a hero. Come, Lord Jesus.
Thursday, September 22, 2016
Differentiating Jesus
Scripture: They said to Him, “Why do the disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees, but Yours eat and drink?” Luke 5:33
Observation: This is the first - but won't be the last - time the Pharisees question Jesus about compliance with 'traditional practices' that are outside the true law of God. However, as the Pharisees begin their efforts to question Jesus and trap him, they start with an intriguing example ... the actions and practices of the disciples of John the Baptist. In fact, they construct the question in a manner that gives John primacy over the Pharisees - that John's disciples fast and pray, and so do theirs.
There are two possible reasons as to why the Pharisees may seek to compare the teaching and leadership of Jesus to that of John. First, they acknowledge John's authority as a prophet and are attempting to determine if Jesus is himself a prophet and thus should be behaving in line with John. Second, they believe both Jesus and John are troublesome, and therefore they don't really care whom they "set up" in this conversation as long as they get one to discredit the other.
Jesus, of course, avoided both possibilities. He differentiated himself from John, thus allowing John the honorable status of prophet but himself as a new definition ... discussing himself as the bridegroom, or a new repair for old cloth, or new wine that cannot be placed into an old wineskin. John is doing that "old thing" (prophesying in a manner that completely aligns to the law and the other prophets); the Pharisees are doing some other "old thing" (living legalistically under Jewish traditions); Jesus is doing the "new thing" (being the Messiah prepared to redeem the entire world).
Application: Jesus - and his followers - must always be different. Behaving like others, even others that behave well and respectfully toward God, is suspect. We must remain careful of behaving in a manner that SOUNDS like it follows God's law, but does not align to his purposes. These types of things often fall into the category of "politically correct", and often sound a lot like "if you love people, you would support their behavior."
Jesus knew that loving people, and supporting their behavior, have very little to do with each other. Jesus loves people more than we can imagine, yet he had no inclination to have his disciples behave in line with Pharisees' teaching or even John's prophetic example. Especially in the case of ritual supplication, Jesus knew that his followers should be joyful in their experience with him instead.
Is there a place I am observing a cultural ritual that is unnecessary at best? Certainly in my opinions and thought life too often I align to cultural norms. I rely upon professional standards of behavior at work instead of showing the love of Jesus in real-time on occasion. In both of these, I need to think more like a disciple of Jesus - which I am - and learn from him.
Prayer: Lord, again I ask you to correct my thoughts and align my actions to you on a daily basis. I seek to be a light in the dark. Help me to recognize your work today, and guide me to joining you in that work every day. Amen.
Observation: This is the first - but won't be the last - time the Pharisees question Jesus about compliance with 'traditional practices' that are outside the true law of God. However, as the Pharisees begin their efforts to question Jesus and trap him, they start with an intriguing example ... the actions and practices of the disciples of John the Baptist. In fact, they construct the question in a manner that gives John primacy over the Pharisees - that John's disciples fast and pray, and so do theirs.
There are two possible reasons as to why the Pharisees may seek to compare the teaching and leadership of Jesus to that of John. First, they acknowledge John's authority as a prophet and are attempting to determine if Jesus is himself a prophet and thus should be behaving in line with John. Second, they believe both Jesus and John are troublesome, and therefore they don't really care whom they "set up" in this conversation as long as they get one to discredit the other.
Jesus, of course, avoided both possibilities. He differentiated himself from John, thus allowing John the honorable status of prophet but himself as a new definition ... discussing himself as the bridegroom, or a new repair for old cloth, or new wine that cannot be placed into an old wineskin. John is doing that "old thing" (prophesying in a manner that completely aligns to the law and the other prophets); the Pharisees are doing some other "old thing" (living legalistically under Jewish traditions); Jesus is doing the "new thing" (being the Messiah prepared to redeem the entire world).
Application: Jesus - and his followers - must always be different. Behaving like others, even others that behave well and respectfully toward God, is suspect. We must remain careful of behaving in a manner that SOUNDS like it follows God's law, but does not align to his purposes. These types of things often fall into the category of "politically correct", and often sound a lot like "if you love people, you would support their behavior."
Jesus knew that loving people, and supporting their behavior, have very little to do with each other. Jesus loves people more than we can imagine, yet he had no inclination to have his disciples behave in line with Pharisees' teaching or even John's prophetic example. Especially in the case of ritual supplication, Jesus knew that his followers should be joyful in their experience with him instead.
Is there a place I am observing a cultural ritual that is unnecessary at best? Certainly in my opinions and thought life too often I align to cultural norms. I rely upon professional standards of behavior at work instead of showing the love of Jesus in real-time on occasion. In both of these, I need to think more like a disciple of Jesus - which I am - and learn from him.
Prayer: Lord, again I ask you to correct my thoughts and align my actions to you on a daily basis. I seek to be a light in the dark. Help me to recognize your work today, and guide me to joining you in that work every day. Amen.
Monday, September 19, 2016
Boring Omissions of Youth
Scripture: When they had performed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city of Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom. And the grace of God was upon Him. Luke 2:39-40
Observation: There is SO much missing information here!! Clearly, Luke has directly interviewed Mary in order to produce the details of Luke 2 - information about the shepherds, the prophesies of Simeon and Anna, and later is days of teaching in the temple at age 12. However, the intervening period - from the age of 8 days to 12 years - is covered in 20 words. That said, those two sentences of verse 40 have some powerful phrases:
-- He "became strong in spirit" - While we generally would think that the oldest son would learn his father's work, and thus Jesus would become strong in body as a carpenter, the first description is a strength explicitly aligned to the Holy Spirit of God.
-- He was "filled with wisdom" - That alignment to the spirit gave Jesus even as a young child a supernatural gift of wisdom.
-- "The grace of God was upon him" - God's special blessing rested upon Jesus during these 12 formative years, likely both protecting him and extending to the way he behaved and interacted with other children and siblings.
Application: I am intrigued by these character traits that have been singled out to describe everything we know about Jesus from birth to just before the age of Jewish adulthood. His entire childhood I this ... he was spirit-filled, supernaturally wise, and uniquely blessed, and likely therefore interacted with others in a unique manner. However, I am equally intrigued by the details Luke and/or Mary have decided to leave out of the Bible. There is no explanation of any of these traits, no examples of behavior, no "for example" memories of his childhood, and no editorial about how he was different that other kids. They do not say, "his wisdom was so great that once he ..." or "God's grace on his life was so evident that one time ...". There is not a single act, word, or event presented to expound on these traits.
I believe the reason for this omission is simple and twofold. All of these traits - strong spirit, wisdom, and grace - do not lend themselves to "events", but rather just the opposite ... a child with these traits would be so mild and wise as to simply never create a stir or issue. That would, of course, be wildly unique for a child! However, it also would not create antidotes for future reminiscing. Second, Jesus's ministry was a public event for the world, and not a private event for his family. Therefore, his spirit-filled life of his private family life was not important ... however, his first public appearance in the temple at age 12 was an exception. Mary and Luke understood that recounting Mary's memories of a wonderful child was not part of God's redemptive message, and excluded it.
While it is interesting, therefore, to contemplate the child Jesus, it is correct that it is also meaningless. In presenting the authority of Jesus, we are best served by the facts of his ministry and by his own teaching. The boring childhood has no salvation in it, but belief in the resurrection has saving power. Talk of a wise child is meaningless, but an adult life that fulfilled thousands of years of prophesy is meaningful. As always, it is important to stick to the important elements of Jesus, and the stories of a proud mom was never part of that message.
Prayer: Abba, father, the birth of Jesus was the turning point of all creation! That story is so important, and that importance is in the context of your love and your willingness to sacrifice Jesus on the cross for my sins. Please help me stay focused on that act of love, and how I can align my actions daily to that love. Please give me just a little bit of the wisdom, spirit, and grace of the young boy Jesus. Amen.
Observation: There is SO much missing information here!! Clearly, Luke has directly interviewed Mary in order to produce the details of Luke 2 - information about the shepherds, the prophesies of Simeon and Anna, and later is days of teaching in the temple at age 12. However, the intervening period - from the age of 8 days to 12 years - is covered in 20 words. That said, those two sentences of verse 40 have some powerful phrases:
-- He "became strong in spirit" - While we generally would think that the oldest son would learn his father's work, and thus Jesus would become strong in body as a carpenter, the first description is a strength explicitly aligned to the Holy Spirit of God.
-- He was "filled with wisdom" - That alignment to the spirit gave Jesus even as a young child a supernatural gift of wisdom.
-- "The grace of God was upon him" - God's special blessing rested upon Jesus during these 12 formative years, likely both protecting him and extending to the way he behaved and interacted with other children and siblings.
Application: I am intrigued by these character traits that have been singled out to describe everything we know about Jesus from birth to just before the age of Jewish adulthood. His entire childhood I this ... he was spirit-filled, supernaturally wise, and uniquely blessed, and likely therefore interacted with others in a unique manner. However, I am equally intrigued by the details Luke and/or Mary have decided to leave out of the Bible. There is no explanation of any of these traits, no examples of behavior, no "for example" memories of his childhood, and no editorial about how he was different that other kids. They do not say, "his wisdom was so great that once he ..." or "God's grace on his life was so evident that one time ...". There is not a single act, word, or event presented to expound on these traits.
I believe the reason for this omission is simple and twofold. All of these traits - strong spirit, wisdom, and grace - do not lend themselves to "events", but rather just the opposite ... a child with these traits would be so mild and wise as to simply never create a stir or issue. That would, of course, be wildly unique for a child! However, it also would not create antidotes for future reminiscing. Second, Jesus's ministry was a public event for the world, and not a private event for his family. Therefore, his spirit-filled life of his private family life was not important ... however, his first public appearance in the temple at age 12 was an exception. Mary and Luke understood that recounting Mary's memories of a wonderful child was not part of God's redemptive message, and excluded it.
While it is interesting, therefore, to contemplate the child Jesus, it is correct that it is also meaningless. In presenting the authority of Jesus, we are best served by the facts of his ministry and by his own teaching. The boring childhood has no salvation in it, but belief in the resurrection has saving power. Talk of a wise child is meaningless, but an adult life that fulfilled thousands of years of prophesy is meaningful. As always, it is important to stick to the important elements of Jesus, and the stories of a proud mom was never part of that message.
Prayer: Abba, father, the birth of Jesus was the turning point of all creation! That story is so important, and that importance is in the context of your love and your willingness to sacrifice Jesus on the cross for my sins. Please help me stay focused on that act of love, and how I can align my actions daily to that love. Please give me just a little bit of the wisdom, spirit, and grace of the young boy Jesus. Amen.
Friday, September 16, 2016
I Say Again, the Lord Provides
Scripture:
Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord,
who walks in His ways.
For you shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands;
you will be happy, and it shall be well with you.
Your wife shall be as a fruitful vine
in your house,
your children like olive shoots
around your table.
Behold, this man shall be blessed
who fears the Lord.
Psalms 128:1-4
Observation: Of all God's promises, this one is repeated - that he who believes in the Lord will be blessed is the one. This blessing is not about abundant riches, rather it is simply "contentment" ... having enough to eat, enjoying a happy family, and being productive in your professional and personal life. That is all. That is blessing.
Application: After a long week I am reminded of this fact: I am blessed! My work, even when frustrating, provides more than I deserve for myself and my family. We enjoy our family life together, and have enough to eat, to drink, to share, to give away. We can provide for our children's lives and their future. This is simply blessing from God. May I never, ever lose sight of that, even for one moment.
Prayer: Dearest Lord, my father and my provider, I know that you have given to me in ways I do not understand, and in measures I do not deserve. My life is full and runs over. Even on the hectic and frustrating days, may I always have you at the center of my life, the center of my heart, and the center of my mind. Amen.
Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord,
who walks in His ways.
For you shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands;
you will be happy, and it shall be well with you.
Your wife shall be as a fruitful vine
in your house,
your children like olive shoots
around your table.
Behold, this man shall be blessed
who fears the Lord.
Psalms 128:1-4
Observation: Of all God's promises, this one is repeated - that he who believes in the Lord will be blessed is the one. This blessing is not about abundant riches, rather it is simply "contentment" ... having enough to eat, enjoying a happy family, and being productive in your professional and personal life. That is all. That is blessing.
Application: After a long week I am reminded of this fact: I am blessed! My work, even when frustrating, provides more than I deserve for myself and my family. We enjoy our family life together, and have enough to eat, to drink, to share, to give away. We can provide for our children's lives and their future. This is simply blessing from God. May I never, ever lose sight of that, even for one moment.
Prayer: Dearest Lord, my father and my provider, I know that you have given to me in ways I do not understand, and in measures I do not deserve. My life is full and runs over. Even on the hectic and frustrating days, may I always have you at the center of my life, the center of my heart, and the center of my mind. Amen.
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
Twenty-Four Mysteries
Scripture: And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God who was seated on the throne, saying, “Amen. Hallelujah!” Revelation 19:4
Observation: These 28 beings appear throughout the visions of Revelation. The 24 elders are not described or defined. The four living creatures are described as clearly being non-human, with bodily characteristics of animals and humans the make it clear they are some kind of special angel or heavenly creation of God. In almost every reference, the 24 elders especially are worshiping God ... they stand before the throne, and mutually declare God's greatness and power, and glory, giving him praise. They have a special place of honor, and a special purpose within heaven. However, at no time does John make any attempt to further identify the 24. It seems they could only be a select group from one of four other groups:
1) Individuals who pre-existed the Christian era (whom John would have known of)
2) Martyrs of the early church (whom John would have personally known)
3) Future leaders of the church (as this is a prophetic vision)
4) Non-humans created for this purpose (whom John would likely therefore have commented on as he did the four creatures)
Application: In thinking this through, the lesson becomes clear ... it doesn't matter where these 24 people came from, what their backstory is, or how the "earned" the position of elder before the throne of God. It doesn't matter because, however they came to be, it is a decision made by God, through his love, grace, and wisdom, and thus far beyond our understanding. Even if they "earned" the position, they ways of earning it would likely not make sense to us, as we continually think of earthly process and compliance as the means for earning reward. Jesus taught us that doesn't work with God.
For all I know, these elders are unnamed Jews who rebuilt the temple of Jerusalem ... or some of David's might men ... or ancient believers outside of the Jewish line that are never heard of in the Bible ... or the leaders of the reformation ... or the best popes ... or former prophets. Who knows.
But here is the truth: It is very unlikely these positions were "earned" in any manner that I could understand, just like the "earning" of salvation is a bewildering mystery. I am even now reminded of a non-believer who said that one of the incomprehensible things about Christian faith was that you could do anything you want, then on your deathbed decide you believe in Jesus, and receive thus receive eternal life in heaven. The connection between one act and the amazing award makes no sense in human understanding.
The origin of the 24 elders is a mystery. However, God's rewards are only a mystery if you apply human qualities to God. When you realize the magnitude of God's love, grace, mercy, judgment, and wisdom ... salvation through faith in Jesus makes sense.
Prayer: Lord, I humbly thank you. I know I am unworthy of any love, any grace, any mercy, and any reward from you. Yet you choose to bestow blessing and promise upon me. Jesus is my lord and savior, and I will follow and obey him. I won't obey him perfectly, and sometimes I won't even obey him well, but I will strive to do so daily. Thank you for loving me first. Amen.
Observation: These 28 beings appear throughout the visions of Revelation. The 24 elders are not described or defined. The four living creatures are described as clearly being non-human, with bodily characteristics of animals and humans the make it clear they are some kind of special angel or heavenly creation of God. In almost every reference, the 24 elders especially are worshiping God ... they stand before the throne, and mutually declare God's greatness and power, and glory, giving him praise. They have a special place of honor, and a special purpose within heaven. However, at no time does John make any attempt to further identify the 24. It seems they could only be a select group from one of four other groups:
1) Individuals who pre-existed the Christian era (whom John would have known of)
2) Martyrs of the early church (whom John would have personally known)
3) Future leaders of the church (as this is a prophetic vision)
4) Non-humans created for this purpose (whom John would likely therefore have commented on as he did the four creatures)
Application: In thinking this through, the lesson becomes clear ... it doesn't matter where these 24 people came from, what their backstory is, or how the "earned" the position of elder before the throne of God. It doesn't matter because, however they came to be, it is a decision made by God, through his love, grace, and wisdom, and thus far beyond our understanding. Even if they "earned" the position, they ways of earning it would likely not make sense to us, as we continually think of earthly process and compliance as the means for earning reward. Jesus taught us that doesn't work with God.
For all I know, these elders are unnamed Jews who rebuilt the temple of Jerusalem ... or some of David's might men ... or ancient believers outside of the Jewish line that are never heard of in the Bible ... or the leaders of the reformation ... or the best popes ... or former prophets. Who knows.
But here is the truth: It is very unlikely these positions were "earned" in any manner that I could understand, just like the "earning" of salvation is a bewildering mystery. I am even now reminded of a non-believer who said that one of the incomprehensible things about Christian faith was that you could do anything you want, then on your deathbed decide you believe in Jesus, and receive thus receive eternal life in heaven. The connection between one act and the amazing award makes no sense in human understanding.
The origin of the 24 elders is a mystery. However, God's rewards are only a mystery if you apply human qualities to God. When you realize the magnitude of God's love, grace, mercy, judgment, and wisdom ... salvation through faith in Jesus makes sense.
Prayer: Lord, I humbly thank you. I know I am unworthy of any love, any grace, any mercy, and any reward from you. Yet you choose to bestow blessing and promise upon me. Jesus is my lord and savior, and I will follow and obey him. I won't obey him perfectly, and sometimes I won't even obey him well, but I will strive to do so daily. Thank you for loving me first. Amen.
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Five Sheep
Scripture: Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel; prophesy, and say to them, even to the shepherds, Thus says the Lord God: Ah, shepherds of Israel who have been feeding yourselves! Should not shepherds feed the sheep? You eat the fat, you clothe yourselves with the wool, you slaughter the fat ones, but you do not feed the sheep. The weak you have not strengthened, the sick you have not healed, the injured you have not bound up, the strayed you have not brought back, the lost you have not sought, and with force and harshness you have ruled them. So they were scattered, because there was no shepherd, and they became food for all the wild beasts. Ezekiel 34:2-5
Observation: Ezekiel 34 is a rich metaphor of sheep and shepherds. In this passage, God defined five types of sheep in need of care:
Weak sheep, who need to be strengthened
Sick sheep, who need healing
Injured sheep, who need their wounds cared for
Straying sheep, who need to be gathered back to the fold
Lost sheep, who need to be found
Application: I had heard a teaching on this many years ago, and did not know where it came from! That teaching was about five kinds of "sheep" whom the church - as shepherds - are to be caring for:
Weak sheep are those with a little faith but insecurities about their faith who need encouragement from others.
Sick sheep are those suffering from addiction and sin who need healing before they can accept the love of Jesus.
Injured sheep are people who have been hurt emotionally to the point of during away from God and need comfort.
Straying sheep are former believers who have left the church and turned from God, who need gentle correction and care.
Lost sheep are non-believers whom need the good news of Jesus.
This metaphor throughout Ezekiel is even deeper, though, as he declares that - because the shepherds (Judah) have lost their sheep - he will become the shepherd, and send the house of David to the sheep. Once gathered, he will then judge the sheep as well, taking action against those strong sheep that impede or bully other sheep. This is an amazing metaphor for today, with the church gathered under Jesus, but still in need of correction.
As a result, I see two questions for myself today:
1) Am I still looking to care for the five types of forlorn sheep?
2) Am I avoiding being a mean, pushy sheep within the flock?
I can honestly say that, at one time, the answer to both would have been a firm "no", however today it is a possible "yes" and certainly an improving conversation. I need to remain listening to my shepherd's voice.
Prayer: Father, abba, I am thankful you have gathered me to you! May I be a sheep content in the field and the water you provide at all times, not pushy and seeking more than my share, and not indifferent to others that struggle. Amen.
Observation: Ezekiel 34 is a rich metaphor of sheep and shepherds. In this passage, God defined five types of sheep in need of care:
Weak sheep, who need to be strengthened
Sick sheep, who need healing
Injured sheep, who need their wounds cared for
Straying sheep, who need to be gathered back to the fold
Lost sheep, who need to be found
Application: I had heard a teaching on this many years ago, and did not know where it came from! That teaching was about five kinds of "sheep" whom the church - as shepherds - are to be caring for:
Weak sheep are those with a little faith but insecurities about their faith who need encouragement from others.
Sick sheep are those suffering from addiction and sin who need healing before they can accept the love of Jesus.
Injured sheep are people who have been hurt emotionally to the point of during away from God and need comfort.
Straying sheep are former believers who have left the church and turned from God, who need gentle correction and care.
Lost sheep are non-believers whom need the good news of Jesus.
This metaphor throughout Ezekiel is even deeper, though, as he declares that - because the shepherds (Judah) have lost their sheep - he will become the shepherd, and send the house of David to the sheep. Once gathered, he will then judge the sheep as well, taking action against those strong sheep that impede or bully other sheep. This is an amazing metaphor for today, with the church gathered under Jesus, but still in need of correction.
As a result, I see two questions for myself today:
1) Am I still looking to care for the five types of forlorn sheep?
2) Am I avoiding being a mean, pushy sheep within the flock?
I can honestly say that, at one time, the answer to both would have been a firm "no", however today it is a possible "yes" and certainly an improving conversation. I need to remain listening to my shepherd's voice.
Prayer: Father, abba, I am thankful you have gathered me to you! May I be a sheep content in the field and the water you provide at all times, not pushy and seeking more than my share, and not indifferent to others that struggle. Amen.
Monday, September 12, 2016
A First-Hand Conversion Account
Scripture: I, Nebuchadnezzar, was at ease in my house and prospering in my palace. ... Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, for all his works are right and his ways are just; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble. Daniel 4:4,37
Observation: The fourth chapter of Daniel is interesting for several reasons. Not to be overlooked is that it tells the account of King Nebuchadnezzar's conversion to belief in God. This conversion involved convicting him of his sin of pride, reducing him through madness to a homeless man, and after a period (not well stated - may have been seven years, seven months, or seven seasons) returning him to power after he looked to God for hope. This is a story just as powerful as the others in Daniel, and should (though it isn't) taught right along with the fiery furnace and the lion's den, if not at least as often as the testing of the healthy diet and the writing on the wall.
However, I see this as insightful for another reason: The majority of this chapter of Daniel is written in the first person by Nebuchadnezzar himself. In other words, this is the first-hand account of the most powerful king of his day, confessing his conversion story. This is ... Nebuchadnezzar's testimony! In this, Nebuchadnezzar - a king so powerful that he effectively rules all of the middle east as we know it ... so famous that 2,500 years later pieces of his palace are on display in modern museums (and I've seen them) - that Nebuchadnezzar spells out a personal account of his acceptance of Yahweh:
1) He is first warned of his sinful life. While he doesn't understand the warning, he is sensitive to the fact that it is ominous and it troubles him.
2) He consults non-believers, who are of no help at all.
3) He then consults a believer (Daniel) who has already garnered his trust, and who has demonstrated his faith, and he empowers that believer to speak truth to him even if the news is bad.
4) Even upon receiving the true warning from the believer, he fails to change his ways, demonstrates pride, and the predicted punishment comes to pass.
5) Through an understanding of the sin and the resulting situation, he turns to God with hope for restoration and relief.
6) God responds to that hope, and Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges God.
Application: This is informative in its model, especially with the first three facts ... the non-believer at first is troubled by insight into his life, seeks empty advice, and only then turns to a believer whom he already trusts for advice. What we now call "pre-evangelism", then, begins when we take two steps with those around us. First, we establish trust as friends. Second, despite being friends, we remain clear in our faith that differentiates us personally from others.
I have been praying recently about how to improve my engagement with others at my place of work - my holy vocation. This provides a timely reminder and answer to that prayer. I need to continue to work on relationships and trust, while also actively differentiating myself as a Christian. As I do both, opportunities will emerge.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for the timely answer to prayer. I am reminded anew of the greatness and relevance of your word. May I humbly walk with you every day in the place you have put me. Amen.
Observation: The fourth chapter of Daniel is interesting for several reasons. Not to be overlooked is that it tells the account of King Nebuchadnezzar's conversion to belief in God. This conversion involved convicting him of his sin of pride, reducing him through madness to a homeless man, and after a period (not well stated - may have been seven years, seven months, or seven seasons) returning him to power after he looked to God for hope. This is a story just as powerful as the others in Daniel, and should (though it isn't) taught right along with the fiery furnace and the lion's den, if not at least as often as the testing of the healthy diet and the writing on the wall.
However, I see this as insightful for another reason: The majority of this chapter of Daniel is written in the first person by Nebuchadnezzar himself. In other words, this is the first-hand account of the most powerful king of his day, confessing his conversion story. This is ... Nebuchadnezzar's testimony! In this, Nebuchadnezzar - a king so powerful that he effectively rules all of the middle east as we know it ... so famous that 2,500 years later pieces of his palace are on display in modern museums (and I've seen them) - that Nebuchadnezzar spells out a personal account of his acceptance of Yahweh:
1) He is first warned of his sinful life. While he doesn't understand the warning, he is sensitive to the fact that it is ominous and it troubles him.
2) He consults non-believers, who are of no help at all.
3) He then consults a believer (Daniel) who has already garnered his trust, and who has demonstrated his faith, and he empowers that believer to speak truth to him even if the news is bad.
4) Even upon receiving the true warning from the believer, he fails to change his ways, demonstrates pride, and the predicted punishment comes to pass.
5) Through an understanding of the sin and the resulting situation, he turns to God with hope for restoration and relief.
6) God responds to that hope, and Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges God.
Application: This is informative in its model, especially with the first three facts ... the non-believer at first is troubled by insight into his life, seeks empty advice, and only then turns to a believer whom he already trusts for advice. What we now call "pre-evangelism", then, begins when we take two steps with those around us. First, we establish trust as friends. Second, despite being friends, we remain clear in our faith that differentiates us personally from others.
I have been praying recently about how to improve my engagement with others at my place of work - my holy vocation. This provides a timely reminder and answer to that prayer. I need to continue to work on relationships and trust, while also actively differentiating myself as a Christian. As I do both, opportunities will emerge.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for the timely answer to prayer. I am reminded anew of the greatness and relevance of your word. May I humbly walk with you every day in the place you have put me. Amen.
Friday, September 9, 2016
We Believe
This time in our reading plan is SO depressing ... the destruction of Jerusalem, and the future wrath of God upon the earth. It is all wrath and judgment, and while there are lessons to learn, I cannot focus on them to blog about them out of knowledge for the implications of the future of this world. I, too, lament for my nation, my city, and my friends. So instead of blogging, I'll simply enjoy a great song.
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
City of Disobedience
Scripture: And when they have finished their testimony, the beast that rises from the bottomless pit will make war on them and conquer them and kill them, and their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city that symbolically is called Sodom and Egypt, where their Lord was crucified. Revelation 11:7-8
Observation: Jerusalem is symbolically - or spiritually - called "Sodom" and "Egypt", places of renown sin and disobedience. Likewise, in prior readings I have observed that the "new Jerusalem" cannot actually be the existing city, but new place (regardless of it's location). If these are both true - that Jerusalem is now a city known in heaven for its disobedience, and it will be completely replaced for the reign of Jesus - then that begs questions ...
What is the importance of Jerusalem today? Is it the holy city? Or is it the remnant of a once holy city that is now defiled and disobedient?
This is such a difficult and confusing matter. At once, Jerusalem is the former seat of God, the place where Jesus was crucified and resurrected, and a place dominated by Islamic sites and in the center of nearly continual conflict. Clearly, it is otherworldly important to be so central in the world while actually being a relatively small and out-of-the-way place. However, the question is, I believe, what is it's importance today?
Application: I believe Jerusalem is important as a place of action and events. It was the seat of David, the throne of God, the passion of Jesus. In the future, it is the site of the final battles, the hill for the final return. It was the place for the last stand of the Israel/Judah nation, and it will be the place for the last stand in the final days.
I do not understand the importance of Jerusalem and its selection as such a critical place. I acknowledge, however, that it must have been so selected given the disproportionate attention and centrality to human events that occur in a place that should be a water-starved hilltop village. We shouldn't have ever heard of the place, and instead every person on earth knows of it. Again, this can only be done by God.
Prayer: Lord, I do pray for Jerusalem and the people there. I pray for stability in that land, though I doubt that is possible or even your plan. I pray instead, then, for safety of individuals. Keep your hands upon the people, the children, and the defenseless. And may there be less division in your holy name, or Lord. While there may be anger and hate, it must never been in the name of the Lord. May that subside. Amen.
Observation: Jerusalem is symbolically - or spiritually - called "Sodom" and "Egypt", places of renown sin and disobedience. Likewise, in prior readings I have observed that the "new Jerusalem" cannot actually be the existing city, but new place (regardless of it's location). If these are both true - that Jerusalem is now a city known in heaven for its disobedience, and it will be completely replaced for the reign of Jesus - then that begs questions ...
What is the importance of Jerusalem today? Is it the holy city? Or is it the remnant of a once holy city that is now defiled and disobedient?
This is such a difficult and confusing matter. At once, Jerusalem is the former seat of God, the place where Jesus was crucified and resurrected, and a place dominated by Islamic sites and in the center of nearly continual conflict. Clearly, it is otherworldly important to be so central in the world while actually being a relatively small and out-of-the-way place. However, the question is, I believe, what is it's importance today?
Application: I believe Jerusalem is important as a place of action and events. It was the seat of David, the throne of God, the passion of Jesus. In the future, it is the site of the final battles, the hill for the final return. It was the place for the last stand of the Israel/Judah nation, and it will be the place for the last stand in the final days.
I do not understand the importance of Jerusalem and its selection as such a critical place. I acknowledge, however, that it must have been so selected given the disproportionate attention and centrality to human events that occur in a place that should be a water-starved hilltop village. We shouldn't have ever heard of the place, and instead every person on earth knows of it. Again, this can only be done by God.
Prayer: Lord, I do pray for Jerusalem and the people there. I pray for stability in that land, though I doubt that is possible or even your plan. I pray instead, then, for safety of individuals. Keep your hands upon the people, the children, and the defenseless. And may there be less division in your holy name, or Lord. While there may be anger and hate, it must never been in the name of the Lord. May that subside. Amen.
Friday, September 2, 2016
The Great Multitude
Scripture: After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” Revelation 7:9-10
Observation: The great multitude is from every nation. Immediately after a remnant of 144,000 Jews are sealed for protection, a multitude so great that it cannot be possibly counted appears, and they are from every nation of the earth. This reinforcement that the salvation of God - the salvation that is the promise of faith in Jesus - is meant for all people. It is for Jews and Gentiles. It is for people from Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa. It is for believers everywhere all over the world.
Application: I have needed to be reminded of the great hope of our lives ... the hope for good and for eternal life through faith in Jesus and by the love of God for his created. This passage gives me that hope today. This ensures me that the promise is real, as it spreads over the entire world and is delivered to so many people that their number cannot even be imagined.
Prayer: Dear Lord, my God and my salvation, thank you for your love. Please forgive me for being inadequate to earn your love, but thank you for providing a way by which that doesn't matter - for providing the way to bestow your love even while I was still in my sin. I know Jesus is my Lord and Savior, and you are my Father and my God. May I worship at your throne. Amen.
Observation: The great multitude is from every nation. Immediately after a remnant of 144,000 Jews are sealed for protection, a multitude so great that it cannot be possibly counted appears, and they are from every nation of the earth. This reinforcement that the salvation of God - the salvation that is the promise of faith in Jesus - is meant for all people. It is for Jews and Gentiles. It is for people from Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa. It is for believers everywhere all over the world.
Application: I have needed to be reminded of the great hope of our lives ... the hope for good and for eternal life through faith in Jesus and by the love of God for his created. This passage gives me that hope today. This ensures me that the promise is real, as it spreads over the entire world and is delivered to so many people that their number cannot even be imagined.
Prayer: Dear Lord, my God and my salvation, thank you for your love. Please forgive me for being inadequate to earn your love, but thank you for providing a way by which that doesn't matter - for providing the way to bestow your love even while I was still in my sin. I know Jesus is my Lord and Savior, and you are my Father and my God. May I worship at your throne. Amen.
Thursday, September 1, 2016
Worthless Wood
Scripture: Son of man, how does the wood of the vine surpass any wood, the vine branch that is among the trees of the forest? Is wood taken from it to make anything? Do people take a peg from it to hang any vessel on it? Behold, it is given to the fire for fuel. When the fire has consumed both ends of it, and the middle of it is charred, is it useful for anything? Behold, when it was whole, it was used for nothing. How much less, when the fire has consumed it and it is charred, can it ever be used for anything! Ezekiel 15:2-5
Observation: Grapes, the grape vine, and wine are used by God repeatedly as blessings. Vineyards are metaphors for the world and prosperity, and in real life in Judah a good grape harvest was essential for life. So God turns this around ... the vine itself - cut off from the plant - is worthless. As a source of wood, it has no purpose, and once burned in a fire it can't even be used to make charcoal or salvaged for any useful purpose at all. Once a grape vine is cut and therefore not producing fruit, it is a completely useless piece of wood.
This is certainly part of the metaphor of the vine for God. After centuries of blessing Israel and Judah with bountiful harvests from large vineyards to make good wine, he is cutting off the vines, and they will have no purpose whatsoever. More so once he burns Jerusalem, they will become even "much less" than useless.
However, there is really only one reason why someone cuts apart a vineyard in the first place: It has stopped producing good fruit, typically due to diseases within the roots. Of course, this has been at the core of God's wrath against Judah - their root of belief is diseased to the point that the only recourse is to tear out the vineyard.
Application: Going personal ... how are my roots? I know I struggle daily with keeping God central in my life and my thoughts. I am quick to pursue earthly issues and goals - on worldly challenges and my personal wisdom to solve them - rather than pursuing God's work and will around me. I am easily distracted by the wanderings of my own mind, rather than focusing on the reality of both good and evil around me, celebrating one and seeking God's plan for the other.
It is not good enough to think "well, I'm better than most". That is demonstrably wrong. I need to sink my roots deeper and make them healthy. I need to do that by focusing my thought life on Jesus, and aligning my daily work to those thoughts. There are days I do this well, and there are days I don't do this at all. I can start with an understanding of what I am doing right on the good days, and building on those behaviors, thoughts, words, and actions. I want to be a good vine, producing good fruit ... for I know that, as a cut-off piece of wood, I am worthless.
Prayer: Lord, I ask you to order my steps every day. I know this starts with surrendering my mind, and I do that today. Please aid me in keeping my mind both open to you, and filled with your thoughts and ways and work. In this manner, may my daily walk align with you. Amen.
Observation: Grapes, the grape vine, and wine are used by God repeatedly as blessings. Vineyards are metaphors for the world and prosperity, and in real life in Judah a good grape harvest was essential for life. So God turns this around ... the vine itself - cut off from the plant - is worthless. As a source of wood, it has no purpose, and once burned in a fire it can't even be used to make charcoal or salvaged for any useful purpose at all. Once a grape vine is cut and therefore not producing fruit, it is a completely useless piece of wood.
This is certainly part of the metaphor of the vine for God. After centuries of blessing Israel and Judah with bountiful harvests from large vineyards to make good wine, he is cutting off the vines, and they will have no purpose whatsoever. More so once he burns Jerusalem, they will become even "much less" than useless.
However, there is really only one reason why someone cuts apart a vineyard in the first place: It has stopped producing good fruit, typically due to diseases within the roots. Of course, this has been at the core of God's wrath against Judah - their root of belief is diseased to the point that the only recourse is to tear out the vineyard.
Application: Going personal ... how are my roots? I know I struggle daily with keeping God central in my life and my thoughts. I am quick to pursue earthly issues and goals - on worldly challenges and my personal wisdom to solve them - rather than pursuing God's work and will around me. I am easily distracted by the wanderings of my own mind, rather than focusing on the reality of both good and evil around me, celebrating one and seeking God's plan for the other.
It is not good enough to think "well, I'm better than most". That is demonstrably wrong. I need to sink my roots deeper and make them healthy. I need to do that by focusing my thought life on Jesus, and aligning my daily work to those thoughts. There are days I do this well, and there are days I don't do this at all. I can start with an understanding of what I am doing right on the good days, and building on those behaviors, thoughts, words, and actions. I want to be a good vine, producing good fruit ... for I know that, as a cut-off piece of wood, I am worthless.
Prayer: Lord, I ask you to order my steps every day. I know this starts with surrendering my mind, and I do that today. Please aid me in keeping my mind both open to you, and filled with your thoughts and ways and work. In this manner, may my daily walk align with you. Amen.
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