Routinely Working the Grill

Scripture: Every priest stands day after day ministering and offering the same sacrifices time after time, which can never take away sins. Hebrews 10:11

Observation: The general lesson in this part of Hebrews is that the ritual sacrifices of Israel were always insufficient. They weren't even intended to BE sufficient, for even the Old Testament says they were not truly what the Lord desired, and they did not absolve sin. Jesus - his death, and our acceptance of and faith in his resurrection power - is the only sufficient sacrifice that provides sanctification.

Yet for centuries, priests operated at the alter. They slit the throats of sheep and goats and cattle, poured out their blood, butchered their bodies, then roasted the meat on the fire. They did these things by the hundreds - probably even thousands - day in and day out, for literally hundreds and hundreds of years. As the writer says, they stood day after day, offering the same sacrifices time after time ... and those actions were incapable of accomplishing the most desired outcome of taking away sins.

These priests had the most holy and honored of all professions, working in the temple, standing before the Lord, and performing the most profound task of presenting to the Lord the tithes, offerings, sacrifices, hopes, and prayers of the people ... the pleasing aroma to God. Yet what they were really doing was ... working over the hot grill, doing a redundant, repetitive task. But they did it obediently.

Application: As I consider my daily life, this pretty much summarizes it ... I am doing redundant, repetitive tasks, that in truth have no real long-term outcome, and do not produce any result that would permanently achieve any goal, let alone a heavenly objective. So the test is, do I do it obediently anyway?

Most of the time, the answer to that question would be ... mostly. I do my job. I 'exceed expectations' almost all the time. And yet looking back, I see decades of work that has almost no residual evidence of tangible delivery. Systems have been replaced. Operations have been changed. Teams have been reorganized. Even companies have been wiped from existence.

I have routinely worked, doing similar tasks over and over, and it is likely that my work has never accomplished its objectives in the long-term. However, I should still be doing it obediently, because it is work given to me by the Lord. And I should consider that, as the Lord watches over me, I am doing this work as I stand before him. Therefore, it is worth doing, it is worth doing well, and it is definitely worth doing in a manner that honors him.

Prayer: Lord, may I be daily renewed in my desire to serve you well, by serving others well, and in using my earthly employment to do so. Yes, there are divine appointments in my day, but there are also routine tasks that likely have little future impact, yet I desire to do them well. From a discussion of faith, to a meeting about cloud architecture, may I perform in a manner that honors you. Amen.

Descent is Not Permanent

Scripture: Now suppose he has a son who sees all the sins his father has committed, and though he sees them, he does not do likewise. ... He keeps his hand from harming the poor, not taking interest or profit on a loan. He practices my ordinances and follows my statutes. Such a person will not die for his father’s iniquity. He will certainly live. Ezekiel 18:14,17

Observation: The Lord clarifies for Israel how his judgment works. He judges people by their own actions. In this passage, he reviews three generations ... a man who does right, then a son who commits all kinds of sins, then his son who "does not do likewise" and follows the ordinance and statutes of the Lord. The message is clear that each man will be judged by his own actions, AND that each will be rejudged based on their decisions to violate God's instructions or repent of their actions.

Application: In my despair about the direction of morality in our nation is this promise ... that the Lord knows that such behaviors can change generation-to-generation, and that even the worst sinners can also repent and be forgiven. The descent into immorality and rejection of the Lord is not permanent, but instead the decisions are for each person - each generation - to decide for themselves. In addition, each generation receives the judgment of the Lord for themselves, but also with an open invitation to repent and receive anew the promises of God.

As I continue to lament about conversations with my friends related to their children, I hold to both these ideas. No one's descent is permanent. An individual can correct their path, and certainly a future generation can make decisions for themselves. This is the declaration of the Lord God.

Prayer: Lord, as we often pray for revival in our land, may it be tied to this truth, that individuals can still make decisions to align their lives to your statutes and promises without any curse being passed to them by parents or children. Amen.

A Type of False Prophet

Scripture: My hand will be against the prophets who see false visions and speak lying divinations. They will not be present in the council of my people or be recorded in the register of the house of Israel, and they will not enter the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am the Lord God. Ezekiel 13:9

Observation: Throughout this section, the Lord is declaring the following through Ezekiel ... back in Judah, Jerusalem is going to be destroyed due to the continued sins of the people, and no amount of hopeful declarations to the contrary will change that. In fact, those who declare such hope are false prophets. They have set up these false hopes believing they demonstrate faith that the Lord will protect his people, but actually they are "idols" because they are given precedence over the truth that the Lord is communicating.

In all cases, anyone who speaks about things that were not declared by the Lord - even if those things are good and loving and hopeful - those people are false prophets. They will receive no reward for their misplaced faith and practices.

Application: I am a person who declares hope in the Lord over and over, who seeks God's forgiveness for the people of this land, who sees the sins and wonders what the Lord will do to either recover or condemn. All the while, I fail to acknowledge how truly terrible I as a believer and disciple of Jesus. I blatantly sin and openly criticize others' sins. I condemn inactivity while avoiding service. I wonder at others' lack of faith that produces struggles, even in the midst of my failures.

I would set myself up as someone who claims to know what the Lord wants others to do and teach, while I actively ignore and even reject what he tells me to do and say.

Ezekiel is clear as to my fate - this is the declaration of the Lord God - I will not be present in the council of the Lord's people or be recorded in the register, and I will not enter into his promise.

Prayer: Lord, I fall on your mercy, and pray forgiveness for my ways, my sins, my thoughts, my actions, and my arrogance in even thinking I am in any way deserving of your lovekindness. I don't just struggle, I fail, and in my pride I reject your correction and your word and your direction. I ask for your guidance, they actively push you away to follow my own path. I know today I am the worst kind of disciple, the one critical of other disciples while being all the worse. Again I beg forgiveness. I am not worthy of your Holy Spirit to guide me, but relying on your mercy I ask for it. Heal my mind and my heart, O Lord, so that my soul and my body may walk on your path again this day. In the name of my savior Jesus I pray, amen.

Listing the Basics of Belief

Scripture: Therefore, let us leave the elementary teaching about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works, faith in God, teaching about ritual washings, laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. Hebrews 6:1-2

Observation: The writer of Hebrews calls the readers "immature" in their understanding of faith, and encourages them to embrace maturity. To that ends, he says he will not cover the basics or "elementary teaching about Christ", and lists what those basic concepts are. Those topics include:

-- Obtaining repentance through works aka acts of compliance

-- Basic faith in Yahweh

-- The truth about Jewish rituals

-- The power of prayer through laying on of hands

-- Promised eternal life in heaven

-- A juxtaposed understanding of hell

These basics could be summarized in three statements ... in fact, these are likely the "elementary teaching about Christ" referenced:

1) The promise of Jesus Christ is eternal life through faith in the Lord and Jesus.

2) As believers in Christ, our mission is to love and care for others, guiding them to faith and hope.

3) Without faith, and no amount of good works, compliance with The Law, or ritualistic practices can purify anyone, saving them from future judgment.

Application: As "The Church" evolved over the years, we tried to make it complex. This is evidenced in the evolution of various creeds and decrees of the church created over the centuries. And yes, there are complexities regarding faith and the will of God that are difficult to unpack and fully understand.

However, I am thankful that - at its core - God gave us not only a gift of salvation, but the promise of that salvation being achieved through basic belief in Jesus Christ.

I believe in Yahweh, the Lord God almighty, Abba and creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus, the Christ and Messiah, the heavenly son of God, my savior who bore my sins on the cross, died, resurrected, and ascended into heaven.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the very being of God come to earth as God's wisdom and power to indwell within mankind, who provides assistance and ability to fulfill the purposes of the Lord here in his earthly kingdom.

I believe that, by these beliefs, I am an adopted child of God, forgiven of my sins, purified in love, with a promise of life everlasting in the perfect presence of the Lord.

Prayer: Lord, as I say often, may thy will be done. Amen.

Refining the Mission Parameters

Scripture: I will make your tongue stick to the roof of your mouth, and you will be mute and unable to be a mediator for them, for they are a rebellious house. But when I speak with you, I will open your mouth, and you will say to them, ‘This is what the Lord God says.’ Let the one who listens, listen, and let the one who refuses, refuse—for they are a rebellious house. Ezekiel 3:26-27

Observation: In the first three chapters of Ezekiel, the Lord appears to Ezekiel and tells him what he is to do, but it is refined each time. First, the Lord tells him he is going as a prophet to the exiles of Israel, and will say what the Lord commands him to say. The Lord gives him a scroll to eat, but no words to say (2:3-3:11). The Lord returns a week later and tells Ezekiel his words will be a watchman; He will tell Ezekiel warnings about what the people are doing, and Ezekiel must give those warnings without fail. He will be held accountable if he fails to warn others, but will be blameless if he gives the warnings and they are ignored (3:17-21). The Lord then sends Ezekiel to a new place, where he makes him mute ... Ezekiel cannot speak at all, unless and until the Lord gives him the specific words to say, then he will be able to speak (3:22-27).

In every encounter, the Lord changes the conditions of the calling. The call becomes more and more specific, with added parameters. At first, it is simply that Ezekiel will be a prophet. Later, he is told what the nature and purpose of his prophesy will be, and rules about his complicity with the calling. Finally, he is given added restrictions about his non-prophetic actions and words. At each step, therefore, the call becomes more focused, and in the end Ezekiel's prophetic calling is narrowed down to a specific topic, without any physical ability for him to even try to speak on anything else.

Application: The Lord gives his universal Church a broad mission - to make disciples - and then gives individual congregations variations in their heart about how to do this, and also gives individuals the skills and abilities to do specific elements of that call. That is one example of how the Lord refines the mission parameters, however I believe the example of Ezekiel makes this more personal.

Certainly most of us are not called through such a grand experience as Ezekiel had. That said, when we receive a call on our lives, it will probably be fine-tuned. That tuning may include ... specific location, targeted people-groups, explicit/limited message, and even objective outcomes. That tuning itself may be revealed over time. Ezekiel received a mission, but was wise enough to wait to act until the Lord gave him words and further instructions.

I am not sure I have received my mission yet. Then again, while I have a heart for evangelism, I do know that my understanding of my strengths and engagement in evangelism has been refined over time, as I have become an administrator/organizer of outreach events, targeted specifically to our local community, and often involving larger public holidays that are celebrated by non-believers. Has all this represented both my call, and a refinement of my mission?

Prayer: Lord, you know we would all love to receive a call and mission as clearly as some 'bible heroes' did. That said, your guidance when you give us a call, and your Spirit to give us the ability to perform that call, is such a great way to experience you. May I be worthy of serving you as we head into another Christmas season, and may I remain strong in body and spirit to do so well, in your name. Amen.

Considering the Executioner's Sword

Scripture: For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. No creature is hidden from him, but all things are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give an account. Hebrews 4:12-13

Observation: The writer of Hebrews is clear in this passage ... everyone has heard the truth about the Lord, and about Jesus as Messiah, yet only those who believe the good news will enter "the Lord's rest". Those who do not believe will not. In defining this division, the author quotes Old Testament scripture - primarily Psalm 95 but also Genesis 2 - using these passages to demonstrate the clear articulation of a separation of mankind ... those who believe, and those who do not.

It is that context that defines how the word of God is "sharper than any double-edged sword." It is, in fact, here to penetrate, separate, and divide the world. It will make this division based on how it judges the thoughts and intents of every human heart. No one can hide from that judgment, for our hearts are easily exposed to the Lord's word, and we must give an account of how we receive that word. That account is ... do we believe it, or not?

This passage is well known, yet even darker than most acknowledge. This isn't about the sword of God we arm ourselves with for protection, as Paul describes. This is about God wielding the sword, which is in fact his very word, as an executioner's sword. It will divide mankind, allowing those who believe the word in their very hearts to enter the Lord's rest, but those who do not believe will not enter that rest.

Application: I am actually comforted by this, as I know that in my heart I love the Lord, and believe in Jesus Christ as my savior and redeemer, the son of God. I fall short of obedience to God's word when it comes to prescribed teachings, actions, and behaviors. However, I believe in God's word as the inspired word of God, fully true, and a revelation pertaining to salvation through faith in the Messiah.

There will be a separation someday. I embrace the promise to enter into the Lord's seventh-day rest, a Sabbath that remains for God's people.

Prayer: Lord, while I consider you and your word today, know that I believe in your word, in your authority and wonder and grace and might and love, and I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and savior. May I learn more and more about you and Jesus through your word every day. Amen.

This is My Hope

Scripture:
Even now—
this is the Lord’s declaration—
turn to me with all your heart,
with fasting, weeping, and mourning.
Tear your hearts,
not just your clothes,
and return to the Lord your God.
For he is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger, abounding in faithful love,
and he relents from sending disaster.
Who knows? He may turn and relent
and leave a blessing behind him,
so you can offer a grain offering and a drink offering
to the Lord your God.
Joel 2:12-14

Observation: As Joel pronounces the word of the Lord - that the past famines have been a warning to Israel, and the coming catastrophes are because of their disobedience - he provides hope. The Lord may and can turn aside from such action. If the people return to the Lord - not just lament by tearing their clothes in anguish, but repent by tearing their hearts in passion - he is gracious and compassionate. He can not only relent, but bless. This is the hope of Joel.

Application: As I so often recently have expressed dire fear and frustration about our current age and state of faith in the U.S., I can still declare this is my hope ... that we as a people would observe the warnings, tear our hearts, and return to the Lord as our source of truth, hope, guidance, security, morality, and love. Again I say, this is my hope.

Prayer: Lord, despite how bleak the world looks, and how desolate the path of our society has become, I know you desire our return as a people to you. I know you long for every individual to seek you, to place faith in Jesus, and to define their love for others as you have taught. I also know the power and authority of the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts and lives of everyone. May his hope become results. Amen.

Excuses for Fear and Inaction

Scripture:
The slacker says, “There’s a lion in the road—
a lion in the public square!”
Proverbs 26:13

Observation: While the wise work hard, the fools are also described as slackers by the proverbs. In identifying the actions of a slacker, one is this - fear of a lion in the road and public square. It may seem perfectly normal to declare fear of a lion and wish to not go anywhere near it. However, while lions existed within Israel, they resided in the wilderness. Lions did not come into population centers. If one did, it would be immediately delt with, killed or driven off by a large group of men. There most certainly would never be a circumstance where a lion was simply sitting in the midst of the town, preventing anyone from going about their daily routine.

This lesson in proverbs is simple yet applicable ... slackers make excuses for not working or taking action. Those excuses can take the form of a real threat - a lion - but then invent circumstances that are not real (said lion being in the public square) as the reason for their fear and/or inaction. This is the way of the slacker, the way of the fool.

Application: I have been frustrated and borderline angry with many people over the past months about their continued levels of fear. I still know people who declare they cannot do things that are common in basic daily life - going to the store, or visiting with friends - because they remain afraid. I have a friend who works in a business that requires social interaction and collaboration, who has not flown on a plane, entered a business building, or attended any kind of social event or dinner, for 30 months. Every day, I see people wearing masks in situations that NEVER required masks ... as an individual in their own car, walking alone down a street, etc.

They are afraid for invented reasons that do not even exist. They are fools and slackers. They are failing to engage in life, and losing out on experiences, joys, and even basic financial income. Their lives are disintegrating because they continue to say there is a lion in the public square.

And of course this is only one example of the metaphorical lion. How many other fearful falsehoods are declared every day by such fools? Such people declare ... the future acts of politicians, the unknowns about the economy, the personal opinions of their bosses and coworkers ... all as reasons for their fears about life.

My heart weeps for them, sincerely, for this all originates from a lack of knowledge of Yahweh, Lord God the creator of heaven and earth, our Abba and father, who provides and protects, judges and heals, loves and cares. By declaring false fears - and making those fears their reality - they deny themselves the privilege of successful work, the blessings of God, and the fulfillment of their earthly purpose.

The Lord sacrificed his son for my sins, certainly he will guide my life. If I get sick, or become unemployed, or even die, that is not without the plan and provision of the Lord. And it certainly doesn't involve any self-invented hazard that only prevents me from enjoying the blessings of life here and now.

Prayer: Lord, I know there is no lion in the public square, and no hazard you have not already dealt with. I live in faith, and not fear. May those in fear come to know you and find peace. Amen.

I Used to Be All these Things

Scripture: For we too were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved by various passions and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, detesting one another. Titus 3:3

Observation: As Paul continues to teach Titus about how to instruct the people of Crete, he takes a moment to explain that all these changes are very, very possible. He uses himself as the example. Yes, improvement came not by doing better things, but by the grace of the Holy Spirit poured out on him through faith. However, look at what Paul - and all other believers - used to be, by his own words.

Internally in his thoughts, Paul was foolish, disobedient, deceived, and hateful. These manifested in external behaviors ... enslaved to passions and bodily pleasure, acting daily with malice and envy, and actually detesting others.

In short, Paul was ...

Application: ... me.

I used to be all these things. On bad, weak days, I still am some of them though to a lesser degree. I can be a disobedient fool. I can pursue the wrong passions and desire pleasure. Every once in a while, I am envious of what others have. And I can certainly detest some people, even those within the body of believers.

We know how Paul behaved before he believed. He boasted of his great knowledge and intellect, and believing that faith in Jesus contradicted and threatened his life's work he literally hunted believers for the purpose of seeing their literal death. Maybe I never tried to participate in someone's death, but certainly I was no better. So it is amazing to read the truth today ... that the Lord himself has granted me this new life, "according to his mercy".

This is not because I am now 'good', for as I just said, I can still be a foolish sinner daily, and I am very clearly not like Paul in the level of active commitment I show to Jesus. However, like Paul, I am a changed man. I am certainly not deceived anymore. I am not enslaved anymore. Though I can be critical, I am not hateful of others.

I desire to continue to get better and better in the eyes of Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit. I do not desire this for personal benefit, but rather to simply help to see the kingdom of God on earth to the degree we can have it here. If I am a Cretan - and if I am as Paul was - may I take heed of the instructions given to Titus.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your grace and mercy, for I know that you chose to save my life in so many ways. You have given me a life of fulness and joy. Again today I ask for more of your spirit, and for your hand as I strive to walk on your path. May I love others today in your name, and with a soft heart. Amen.

Do and Don't Answer a Fool

Scripture:
Don’t answer a fool according to his foolishness
or you’ll be like him yourself.
Answer a fool according to his foolishness
or he’ll become wise in his own eyes.
Proverbs 26:4-5

Observation: In the midst of wise sayings that address the nature of 'fools' is this dual statement. The first says do not "answer a fool according to his foolishness", and the second says to do exactly that. Of course, this is just a limitation of English translations of words. The first "according" means to do so in an engaging manner, as in to engage in a debate and thus to answer "according" to the same logic. The second "according" means to respond and not ignore foolish statements, as in to correct that thus answer "according" to the accuracy of the logic.

With this understanding, this proverb is clear. A wise person does not engage in a logical and detailed debate with a fool, but rather succinctly calls out the error of their logic and moves on.

Application: The fools are all around, declaring foolishness. The most natural thing to do is debate them. The easiest thing to do is ignore them. The Lord would have us do neither.

Prayer: Lord, I hear and understand your instructions, so now tell me this. How do we declare that the overwhelming majority of people are wrong? How do we tell 71 percent of the population that they are ignorant of the most basic truth of the universe? How do we tell 97 percent of the population that their allocation of time is flawed? And by 'how do we' do these things, I mean how do we do them in a manner that brings glory and honor and praise to you, and advances your kingdom and the name of Jesus Christ on earth?

We are well past the point where the 'fool' is a person shouting vitriol and heresy on the street corner. The fool is now everyone everywhere. The fool is running every government. The fool is leading industry. The fool is posting videos that are viewed by millions of people in a matter of hours. The fool is codified within the law of the land.

Everything else you say about the fool is true. All these things are like archers shooting indiscriminately, like a drunk randomly swinging a thorned club. And collectively the fools are wise in their own eyes, for they justify they are wise because all the other fools agree and reinforce and praise their foolish declarations.

Lord, my Lord and my God, my wisdom and strength and father and savior, how do we not answer the fools according to their foolishness, but instead answer the fools according to their foolishness, in this time and place?

Like Habakkuk, I will stand my guard post, wait on the lookout tower, and wait for what you will say to me. Amen.

Always the Way of The Way

Scripture: The reason I left you in Crete was to set right what was left undone and, as I directed you, to appoint elders in every town. Titus 1:5

Observation: Immediately after his greeting, Paul reminds Titus that he is in Crete to do two things. One is to appoint 'elders' who will lead congregations of believers in every town, and Paul goes on to describe the characteristics of a good elder. However, the first task for Titus was to "set right what was left undone." This task is not immediately clarified, and it seems clear that these two tasks are separate and distinct (the appointment of elders was not the task left undone).

This body of work for Titus has two characteristics. First, it was undone by Paul. Second, it needed to be 'set right'. This itself seems telling, as together these indicate something Paul was doing but was going a little sideways when Paul had to leave. Paul is not really known for 'doing' outside of evangelism. In Acts, his works are described as preaching the good news, receiving many into the faith, then teaching and guiding them in the ways of faith for a period of time while they themselves grow into a community.

With that definition of Paul's work, and the subsequent discussion about elders and the general challenges with people of Crete, it would seem Titus' work is to ... teach faithful behavior. Words he uses to describe the people - even those who already believe - are rebellious, lairs, lazy, evil, gluttonous, defiled, detestable, disobedient, and unfit. Those are harsh words! He further states these people believe old Jewish myths, and use such beliefs for financial gain.

Because they are defiled, they believe everything is defiled - said another way, because they are scheming and lying, they believe everyone is lying and everything is a scheme - and therefore building a community of faith and love and support isn't happening. It is ... undone. This leaves Titus with a daunting task. He is not the evangelist who needs to tell others about Jesus, but the one who must now overhaul cultural characteristics to allow a community of faith to exist and thus for the kingdom of God to flourish.

Application: I know the church I go to now is strong in evangelism. I know there is another nearby church that is great at sound Sunday teaching. Two weeks ago, I attended a church where the pastor expounded on their mission as warriors explicitly commissioned to address local cultural sins and to change the underlying behaviors of an entire region.

This is the universal Church, communities with common love and faith, but varying missions and directions from the Holy Spirit. It is one of the great mysteries of God, that he could bring his kingdom to earth through one singular message of love and faith, then have that manifest in seemingly infinite paths.

I see today this was always the way of 'the way'. Many of the churches Paul started became outposts of evangelism, but had different core missions. Some had a charge to restore the abused broken. Some were so strong they produced leaders that left them to lead other churches. Some used a foundational understanding of the God of Abraham to teach about the Messiah. Some taught of freedom from earthly sins found in belief in the one Creator. In Crete, the task is to correct a culture of deception and distrust.

All of these have one ends, which is to tell others of Jesus Christ, of the free gift of forgiveness and salvation, and to prepare them to receive that gift through faith.

Prayer: Lord, your ways are in fact a mystery, even when understood. There are many things about you that are binary for sure, but how everyone learns about and receives your love is always unique and individualized, because you truly are a loving father who knows us all. May your love, and your kingdom, be found today here on earth. Amen.

Turning Aside to Myths

Scripture: For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, will multiply teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear what they want to hear. They will turn away from hearing the truth and will turn aside to myths. 2 Timothy 4:3-4

Observation: Again Paul tells Timothy of the way people will respond to the gospel message. When it comes to the truth about Jesus, salvation, and the love of God, they will reject it and instead embrace "myths" and lies. When it comes to sound doctrine for how to live life, they will adamantly reject it ("not tolerate"), and instead will embrace other teachers who pronounce what they want to hear ... what aligns to their predisposed desires.

Application: I am full of emotion when it comes to Paul's predictions for how society behaves. I am encouraged by his prophetic accuracy, yet depressed by the reality of such attitudes by the masses. I am curious about how to continue the call of Jesus (as Paul explicitly instructs us to do in the very next verse, v5), yet frustrated by the knowledge of how others will react to the good news. I am uplifted by the knowledge of the truth, yet oppressed by the fact that lies will prevail in the hearts of many.

And I do not know how to escape this cycle, because I live in a time and place that too well aligns to these words.

Prayer: Lord, may your peace, your shalom, be upon me and my family this day, and every day. I seek your face. I care about others, and I thank you for the softening of my heart, but may your wisdom also show me how I can serve without sadness, speak without fear, and love without judgment. Amen.

Both Claiming and Denying God

Scripture: Holding to the form of godliness but denying its power. Avoid these people. 2 Timothy 3:5

Observation: Paul describes the people in the last days with a significant list of sinful, prideful traits. He then summarizes how such traits manifest with this ... these people effectively claim themselves to have the form - control, authority, wisdom - of God, and that this 'form' has come to them as a result of their manifest authority in the world, while simultaneously denying that God himself, who created them and gave them authority in the world, has any control, authority, or wisdom.

As Paul says, the ultimate sign of the fallen world will be that mankind will hold in their hands documented information about how the Lord has given them life, understanding, and the personal authority to do with it what they please, and they will both agree that they have life and understanding and authority, but deny that such things were given to them.

Application: While Paul's words were likely always true for a subset of mankind throughout history - before and after Christ - they certainly echo loudest today. As my wife and I learn about more of our friends whose children have declared themselves to be of opposite genders, we see even how a person can simultaneously think that their "form" is special and unique and wonderfully made, but also it is to be redefined and resisted and even denied in total for the pursuit of worldly lies.  It's downright devastating to see.

I am a person of total faith who struggles daily with pride and arrogance, which produces sins of both thought and actions in my life. If those who know Jesus struggle so much - and we all do - how could there be hope for those so far removed from a path that includes even the concept of God, let alone the truth about his good plans and purposes and intents in their lives?

Yes, I am struggling with my hope ... not my hope in Jesus, and my personal salvation, and the love of Yahweh my heavenly father ... but my hope in how society sustains and progresses in the future. In fact, my hope in this is less and less tied to a hope that our culture will return to the Lord, and more and more in the Paul's opening statement to this entire concept: Hard times will come in the last days. I am beginning to hope for the last days.

Is it wrong to implicitly give up millions - billions - of living people? I know the answer; yes, it is wrong. Perhaps we can use Paul's logic, showing that claiming a form of personal godliness must point to the power of God himself, and perhaps that awareness can begin some on a new path.

Prayer: Lord, this morning I pray for three young men I won't name here, but their names are in my mind, and you know them. They have denied your power, while claiming power over the form you provided. They have fallen for the lies of satan, and are wandering so far from you. If I could talk to them, I honestly wouldn't even have the first idea what to say. But you do. Please send people to talk to them. Please send people to talk to their parents and councilors and others who would speak into their lives. May this also be true for the tens and hundreds of millions like them in the world today, who have fallen for the same terrible lie. And may your Church find the hope we need to continue your mission on earth, until the day of your coming. Amen.

Considering the Coming Rebellion

Scripture: Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way. For that day will not come unless the apostasy comes first and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction. 2 Thessalonians 2:3

Observation: All prophesy about the "second coming" of Christ is confusing, as it should be since Jesus himself said no one can know the timing. References to the "antichrist" or "man of lawlessness" are just as confusing. In this discussion, Paul is clear in connecting not just the rise of the antichrist to the day of the second coming, but also a third event ... the apostasy. This refers to a rebellion, and from that rebellion the man of lawlessness emerges.

This is interesting because, in the time of this writing, the concept of a "rebellion" against Yahweh would make no logical sense. This was written during the height of the Roman empire. To the world, Ceasar was in charge, and the roman gods were central, while hundreds of other local gods and religions were allowed. It would not have been possible for anyone to lead a worldwide rebellion against the Lord, because Jesus was not yet acknowledged as the savior of the world.

That would change over the next century, and then remain in place for a long time. Throughout that time in history, while pockets of civilization reject Jesus, there would have been no concept of leading a worldwide rebellion against Jesus until ... now.

Application: I do believe that, while we might not live in the "end times", we are the first generation that lives in the conditions that COULD be the end times. Advances in communications and travel have finally met the descriptions of prophesy. So what could an apostasy or rebellion that precedes the man of lawlessness look like? It seems it would require ... widespread rejection of the existence of God, and all moral law given to us by God.

Well ... we seem almost there. Perhaps I am tainted by where I live, where Christians aren't just a minority, but atheists/agnostics are actually the majority and we continue to pass public laws that explicitly renounce God's good guidance for living. This isn't true everywhere yet, but there are entire organizations - even industries - actively attempting to spread this as if it is a virtuous cause.

I do not know what any "apostasy" will look like. However, I expect it could come any day now. My hope is divided between wishing it would happen immediately, or desiring to continue to serve the Lord and see the world reconciled to him.

Prayer: Lord, if it is thy will, come, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Seeking the Spirit's Teaching

Scripture:
Help me understand
the meaning of your precepts
so that I can meditate on your wonders.
Psalm 119:27

Observation: The psalmist desires a deeper understanding of the Lord's precepts and laws. Five times he asks for teaching, instruction, and understanding of God's word. In verse 27 we see one of his goals for such learning ... so he may meditate on the Lord's wonders.

This implies that there is a deeper meaning to the laws and precepts and commands of the word beyond their simple definitions. While all of these teachings have instructions and procedures, obedience to those procedures would not produce meditative contemplation on the wonders of the Lord. Instead, that wonder is found through a deeper revelation of the Lord himself, found within the instructions. This revelation includes ... unconditional love for everyone, a desire to both provide basic essentials and immense blessings, a purpose founded in relationship with the creator of the universe, both mercy and justice for the persecuted and persecutors, and personal joy available to everyone every day.

Application: It is this level of understanding of God's laws that confounds non-believers and new believers alike. I have seen the endless debates about commandments ... which ones don't apply anymore, which apply to Jews but not Christians, etc. Jesus himself called out the issues with such debates. Later prophets pointed out the futility of procedural compliance and how it missed the point of the entire law (seek justice, love mercy, walk humbly with the Lord).

This is how I want to consider all the laws and precepts ... that they reveal God's love, and his overall desire for relationship with me, which is achieved through my behavior that both honors and trusts in him as my Lord, savior, master, and God. It is in that context and mindset that meditating on all his wonders can truly guide me to discovery, to joy, to inner peace, and to true worship.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your instructions, for they do not exist as a burden but as a guidepost to know you better. There can be no greater honor than the creator of the universe desiring that I get to know him. In that spirit, and by your Spirit, may I walk humbly with you every day, my Lord and my God. Amen.

I’m not yet Where I’m Going

... But I'm a LONG way from where I was!

And I'm NOT going back!!

Minding My Own Work

Scripture: To seek to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, so that you may behave properly in the presence of outsiders and not be dependent on anyone. 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12

Observations: Paul's reminders about proper Christian living include the normal words about loving one another and doing good works, but it also includes the reminder to ... do good work. Christians are to 'lead a quiet life'. In this, we take care of our own work, doing it personally and with diligence. This is described as proper behavior, as it will appear as good to non-Christians. In addition, it removes dependence on the 'world' by producing the daily sustenance we receive from the Lord.

Application: This is an important note. While the Lord seeks to prosper us, he does so through the successful outcome of our work. This is, in my opinion, one of the "mysteries" of God. He desires the world to seek him, and so his blessings are not impossible miracles. I don't have a house and a car and food because everything just appears out of thin air. I have what I need every day because the Lord provides it, and he provides it through what appears to be earthly work. In this way, my behavior is proper to others, yet I am not dependent on anyone other than the Lord.

In this, the work commanded of me is ... my work. It is work I do myself, with my hands. And I am to do it quietly, without complaining or lamenting any burden associated with it.

I hope to be this way and remain this way when it comes to my work. I hope to simply have my work to do, with my hands. I desire to maintain a mindset of gratitude toward the work, and also to not complain when it is complex or time-consuming.

The Lord has blessed me so greatly. I cannot even begin to describe the wonder of his love toward me and my family. I do seek to lead a quiet life of good work, and to grow where the Lord has planted me.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for the blessings of my life, and your amazing love in my life. May I honor you with simple work today. May others see me and be reminded in some way of you, perhaps by my work, perhaps by my peace, perhaps by my joy, perhaps by my love. May I do your work in all its forms. Amen.

Surrender is Life

Scripture: But tell this people, "This is what the Lord says: Look, I am setting before you the way of life and the way of death. Whoever stays in this city will die by the sword, famine, and plague, but whoever goes out and surrenders to the Chaldeans who are besieging you will live and will retain his life like the spoils of war." Jeremiah 21:8-9

Observation: Jerusalem is under siege by the Babylonians, and at the king's request Jeremiah prophesies the truth ... the Jews are about to be destroyed by God's own hand, due to their longstanding transgressions. The Lord does give them the hope of a remnant who will survive and eventually be called back to the land, however he gives them this instruction to be part of the remnant: Surrender.

Anyone who places hope in the earthly strength of their walled city will die in some manner of terror and hardship. Anyone who obeys the Lord and surrenders will actually survive, and even be cared for by the Babylonians in some way to sustain their life.

SO MANY will choose to stay, resist, and then later flee, with disastrous outcomes.

Application: The Lord has always given us this choice ... will we as a people - and I myself - choose to follow our own understanding of the world and our own plans for life, or will we surrender to the Lord's instruction and trust that direction? From Adam to Jehoiachin, the Old Testament repeats that pattern. From Mary to Satan, the New Testament repeats that pattern. Over and over, it is obvious who has the best outcomes.

And my life has this pattern. When I follow my path, I struggle. So, have I learned to surrender? Have I truly decided that I will surrender decisions about my life's direction and obey the Lord, even when the path he appears to offer is unknown and indeterminable about the outcome? Sometimes I choose correctly, and sometimes ... I don't.

Jeremiah is famous for the words affirming that the Lord's plans for me are wonderful and good. May I - and all of us - also recognize that the Lord told us how lean into the Lord's plan, which is to surrender to him.

Prayer: Lord, I do desire to surrender to your will and plan for my life, both long-term and on a daily basis. May I know what to do step by step, and better learn how to surrender. Amen.

Impressed by Love and Prayer

Scripture: You learned this from Epaphras, our dearly loved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf, and he has told us about your love in the Spirit. Colossians 1:7-8

Observation: Paul is writing to a church he has never been to, and which he did not plant nor teach at, Colossae. He is writing this while imprisoned in Rome, and the purpose for why he would do so isn't clear, though he will also write a personal letter directly to one of the church leaders (Philemon). Based on both the words and some deeper literary analysis, it seems at least part of the reason he is writing is because Colossae's 'pastor' has also come to Rome, that being Epaphras.

Upon analysis, little is truly known of Epaphras outside of a few sentences by Paul. Scholars believe he is actually from Colossae and thus not a traveling apostle. There is a church tradition that he once learned from Paul and may have been converted in Ephesus, but there is no supporting evidence and that is mere conjecture. He is called a "fellow prisoner" in Philemon, but whether he was brought to Rome as a prisoner or arrested there for being Christian is unknown. About the only thing that can be truly said about Epaphras is ... Paul is impressed by him, and that impression is based on his report about the love found in the church in Colossae, and Epaphras' prayer life.

Application: If I had to say the things that are impressive about a church, the love of the people within the church, and the overall prayer activity within the church, likely wouldn't be high on my list. Then again, I have often found that what impresses me about churches is wrong, if not completely backwards. Therefore, it shouldn't surprise me to learn that the community found within a church, and the hidden actions of prayer to the Lord, are foundational.

I know I need to love people better. I know I need to pray more. These elements of Christian life are so important that Epaphras became esteemed and "dearly loved" by Paul, not for his theology or knowledge, but simply by his reports of such activities in Colossae.

Prayer: Lord, I would desire to be a man Paul might consider a fellow servant and faithful minister, not because of my service and ministry, but because of my love and prayer. May I continue to grow in love, especially toward my brothers and sisters in faith, with a soft and gentle heart. May I turn to you in prayer for all things, at all times, with no care that goes hidden and no joy that goes unpraised. Amen.

Actions Must Align to Faith

Scripture: This is what the Lord of Armies, the God of Israel, says: Correct your ways and your actions, and I will allow you to live in this place. Do not trust deceitful words, chanting, "This is the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord." Jeremiah 7:3-4

Observation: The Lord warns the people of Judah and Jerusalem that, if they persist in their evil, they will be destroyed. He will enumerate the evil acts they are currently perpetrating, but they effectively boil down to two categories ... worship and sacrifice to other gods, and violating the moral law.

In the midst of this warning, the Lord makes this strong accusation ... that their words are deceitful when they declare that the temple of Jerusalem is the temple of the Lord. Interestingly, we know this is the temple of the Lord. It is the place where he has placed his 'name'. He ordered David and Solomon to build it, they did, and he occupied it. Yet now he declares that their words, chanting that the temple is the Lord's, is deceitful. This is because the people themselves have made those words a lie.

They have turned the temple into something else. They commit sins and violate God's instructions, then come to the temple for sacrifices and thus declare themselves forgiven and blameless. The Lord even says that, in so doing, they have turned the temple into a "den of robbers". It has lost its purpose - which was as a place to draw close the Lord in covenant relationship - and instead has become a 'get out of jail free' card where ritual compliance then allows everyone to do whatever else they desire and feel exonerated. They believe that going to the temple occasionally offsets their daily disobedience.

The temple in Jerusalem was the temple of the Lord. Yet when those whose actions oppose the Lord declare it as such, the Lord himself calls that deceit. Actions must align to faith for words to be true.

Application: Of course, my actions fall short of perfection. They often fall short of good and faithful. In this, I am a hypocrite just like the people of Jerusalem, and the Lord would be justified to destroy me. Our nation is on a similar path, to the point where many relish their lives full of the rejection of the Lord, and yet they might choose to pray - for reasons even they don't understand - during great emergencies.

I have no doubt that the Lord will destroy our nation in some form and fashion, though I do not know the timing. I also know I am forgiven through the new covenant of Jesus Christ, and thus has a different way of obtaining a relationship with the Lord that is not based on temple ritual. That said, even Jesus warned of similar pitfalls, telling us that there may come a time when many cry out "Lord, Lord" to him, and he will say he does not know us because we did not do his work on earth.

My behavior cannot be perfect. But I can strive to do his work, and obey his word. I do chant "Jesus Christ is my Lord and savior" ... may my actions - and my heart and faith - align to these words, so the Lord will find them true.

Prayer: Lord, I desire your forgiveness and mercy, for I know my sins and my faults. Help me to serve you and love others in your name, every day. Amen.

Seeking No Other River

Scripture:
For my people have committed a double evil:
They have abandoned me,
the fountain of living water,
and dug cisterns for themselves—
cracked cisterns that cannot hold water...
Now what will you gain
by traveling along the way to Egypt
to drink the water of the Nile?
What will you gain
by traveling along the way to Assyria
to drink the water of the Euphrates?
Jeremiah 2:13,18

Observation: In defining his charges against Judah, the Lord twice uses the metaphor of water. He first calls their acts a "double" evil, for the both a) abandoned his 'living' water, and b) searched for their own water. Then he asks them what they could gain by turning to the worldly support of other nations for strength, and referring to the nations of Egypt and Assyria he wonders what they get by 'drinking' from the mighty rivers of those nations.

And this is the great point. The Lord is the living water that provides all we need, and it is the greatest of sins to not only reject that water, but to go and seek different water. That might be looking within our own sources for what we need to survive, or looking to worldly sources of life-giving refreshment. The Lord provides all we need.

Application: I am emotionally enticed by the river of life ... the river that flows from the throne of the Lord, and grows and grows as it flows. I don't just like the imagery, but I experience it in my soul. I can feel the gentle current as one wades into the river's edge, I can see the lush trees thriving along the shoreline, I can hear children play in the eddies, I can watch fishermen cast nets and receive their daily provision. And I can wonder at how it is that this river does not begin as a gushing torrent and diminish as it is used, but rather starts as a gentle stream from the Lord and grows in size and resources as it meanders through mankind.

I love this image. I yearn to see it, to cup my hands and drink from it, to revel while I stand in the warmth of the light and experience to cool of the water. This is my image of experiencing Yahweh.

How, oh how has mankind actively decided to reject this?

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your love, flowing from your very being. I desire to always experience that love, and I desire no other source of joy. Soften my heart to you and to others, and may your river always be before my eyes. Amen.

Paul Prayed for Us

Scripture: I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:3-6

Observation: As Paul greets the church at Philippi, he declares he prays for them, remembering their great work in spreading the gospel as they have been doing from the very first day they learned of Jesus, and which he is sure they will keep doing until Jesus' return. He is "sure of this," for the good work the Lord has begun in them will certainly continue until the second coming.

That said, the original church at Philippi doesn't exist today. Clearly the members died millennia ago. They are no longer doing the good work, and yet ... the work is not completed, and Christ has not come again. Paul understood this, and even goes on to immediately ponder his current situation - arrested in Rome - and openly discusses whether he will be able to continue to serve the Lord on earth, or if his death will cut short his service before it is completed.

Paul, therefore, is not addressing "you" as just the few hundred people in Philippi.  "You" is ... the universal Church of Jesus Christ. He was praying for this Church as the ongoing organization that is in partnership spreading the gospel, from the first day of the resurrection until now, and Paul knew this good work would continue for as long as needed until the return of Christ.

Application: This revelation tells me that Paul prayed for us. Paul prayed for Evergreen Church. Paul prayed for believers who gather for worship at Microsoft. Paul prayed for every Christian church of every denomination in every corner of the world, which has ever existed from that day in the first century until now, and ongoing until the Lord decides the time has come for Jesus to return and reap the harvest of believers. Paul prayed for all sowers and all reapers for all time.

And ... Paul prayed for me. Paul prayed for my wife. Paul prayed for my children. He prayed especially for our good work of spreading the gospel, whether it be through Alpha, or church events, or conversations with friends, or words at work.

Prayer: Lord, may I be worthy of the prayers of Paul. May I find the strength and will and patience and conviction to do your good work, carrying on as the lineage of the church at Philippi, until the day of Christ Jesus. Amen.

Awaiting the Curse to Come

Scripture:
Whatever you plot against the Lord,
he will bring it to complete destruction;
oppression will not rise up a second time.
Nahum 1:9

Observation: Nehum pronounces a prophesy against Nineveh, and it is this ... you will be completely destroyed to the point that you will not even have descendants or a legacy on earth. This was pronounced at a time when the Assyrians - of which Nineveh was their capital - had conquered Israel and sent the northern kingdom into exile. Yet the prophesy is that they would not destroy Judah, and later they themselves would be wiped from the earth, while actually Israel would survive. All of this proved 100 percent true.

Nineveh itself was a place the Lord had tried to reach with love and kindness and hope. Jonah had explicitly been sent to that city with news they must repent and love Yahweh, and ... they did and were spared. Yet then they turned again and have now rejected the Lord entirely.

This promise in verse 9 is specific about the nature of their future destruction. Whatever the Assyrians have plotted against the Lord, that is what he will do to them. And what did they plot? They plotted ... to blot out the Jewish people forever by conquering their land and then disbursing them into oblivion. Today, Nineveh doesn't exist, and there is no one who could reliably trace their ancestry to Nineveh, though of course Israel exists and the Jewish people are alive across the entire world.

Application: My country is in a plot against the Lord. We have rejected his hope, his word, his love, and his moral teaching. Many are in active rebellion against everything related to the Lord ... not just rejecting his offer of salvation, but actively rejecting the good things he freely offers everyone in life.

And what do the people of this land plot? They plot for the elimination of gender and the corruption of our bodies. So this will be the destiny of this land. Americans will devolve in their physical and emotional health until they are weak in all aspects of life, their hopes deteriorating, and then the nation will dissolve.

Will this curse apply to all Americans? Or will this apply only to those who actively pursue the agenda that encompasses a total rebellion against the Lord? I do not know, but I know God is faithful to his word, and that while he is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love ... his hand will not be withheld forever.

Prayer: Lord, may thy will be done. Amen.

Danger is Defining Ambition

Scripture: For know and recognize this: Every sexually immoral or impure or greedy person, who is an idolater, does not have an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Ephesians 5:5

Observation: In the teaching about impurity of thoughts and actions, Paul is especially reminding the church that the acts associated with the sin of coveting - sexual impurity, immorality, greed - should not exist at all among believers. However, he has also pointed out that these things are common in society among non-believers. Non-believers are ignorant, with hard hearts, and demonstrate such by pursuing all kinds of impure sins.

We know that we all sin, even believers, and while sin should not exist among believers, believers do and will sin. Yet there is one key difference ... idolatry. Those who sin, but also are idolaters, are the ones who clearly do not have an inheritance in Christ.

Application: We talked extensively at church yesterday about sexual impurity and the current conversations in society. It is this point on idolatry that clearly takes that issue to a critical level, which is the fact people have turned sexuality into their idol. They declare sexuality as their principle identity trait. They define their lives by their opinions about sex, and/or about issues that revolve around gender and sexual identity.

I am still confused from time to time about what truly comprises an "idol". Sometimes I believe it must be an image. Most often I believe it is any concept someone places as the primary motivation in their lives, above the Lord. When I think about it deeply, but also trying to summarize most succinctly, I believe I would summarize my understanding as this ... an idol is any belief by which I would define myself or my life's ambition.

I can have a lot of ambitions. Some have good qualities and character, such as I would like to be a better husband, and I would like to become a man deemed wise enough to mentor younger men. In my heart, both of these have root in the Lord. Some ambitions are certainly more worldly, such as I would like to shoot an even-par round of golf someday (or at least shoot 75 or lower). Such ambitions are completely worldly, but they are not something I use to define myself outside of a specific conversation about my best golf round ever. These ambitions are born from joy of activities in this world.

In all things, however, I know my true ambition is to be a better man for Christ, and to do what he would have me do. And yes, I fail at that daily. My heart should be softer toward others, and I should be kinder and more loving. I lust, and I enjoy money and the things it brings. I sometimes have pride in my work. But my identity is with the Lord. I am a believer in, and disciple of, Jesus Christ. I am an adopted child of the Lord God almighty, the God of Abraham, creator of heaven and earth.

At the core of ... me ... my ambition is to be more like Christ, and to serve the Lord. It is the Lord alone I honor and worship.

Prayer: Lord, I reject all other concepts of possible idols in my life, elements I may pursue due to a misplaced definition of my personal ambition. You are central in my life. Yes, I know I fail to keep you central in every moment, action, and thought, for I am a weak man of flesh. Please forgive me for wandering ambition, for acts of pride and covetousness, and for all my sins. You alone are my Lord and my God. Amen.

Disbursed to Gather

Scripture:
This is the declaration of the Lord God,
who gathers the dispersed of Israel:
"I will gather to them still others
besides those already gathered."
Isaiah 56:8

Observation: In several ways, Isaiah defines the mission of Messiah and of the priestly kingdom of Israel in chapters 55-56. The time is coming to head out with the message for all nations and all people to come to the Lord. They will be welcomed, forgiven, saved, and rewarded as children of God. This promise applies to all foreigners who choose faith in the Lord. And this mission is part of the dispersal of Israel, for the Lord would never send out his people without a resulting harvest, just like he doesn't send the rain without it watering the fields. How this will be done (captivity by foreign nations; crucifixion of Messiah) may be difficult to understand, but remember that God's ways are higher than our ways.

Application: This is the promise to me and all those around me ... that us Gentiles from other nations have been rightly gathered to the Lord, and that there remains work to do ... "still others besides those already gathered" are to be brought to the Lord.

My very life exists in the blessings of these chapters, that having been called and chosen faith in the Lord, I have an everlasting home and name. In addition, I have work to do ... to continue to be part of the disbursed believers, telling others of Jesus, so they may be gathered. I am part of the disbursed, to be a gatherer.

Just because I have been brought close, does not mean I am not still out there among the "foreigners" who may feel excluded, the ones who need to hear the offer to 'quit working so hard for that which does not satisfy, but come and receive without any cost that which will forever satisfy'.

Prayer: Lord, it is by your wisdom, mercy, and love that I have any hope at all, for I could have remained an outcast from your kingdom forever. Thank you for your great mercy. May I be your servant, sent out into the land of foreigners, with your good news on my lips. Amen.

Praying for Wisdom and Revelation

Scripture: I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, would give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so that you may know what is the hope of his calling, what is the wealth of his glorious inheritance in the saints. Ephesians 1:17-18

Observation: As Paul opens his letter to the church at Ephesus, he gives a very specific prayer. He prays for their "wisdom and revelation" about God himself. He prayers that they would receive knowledge about God ... about the hope found in the gospel, the purpose for believing in Jesus, and the inheritance to be received through that faith. He desires that they be enlightened about the Lord in every way, and especially about what they receive as children of God.

This is a powerful prayer, for it is really hoping that they receive a revelation of the Spirit about the very nature of being someone who has a relationship with God. It is about knowing God's will for one's life specifically, and for the community of faith more broadly. It is about understanding God's nature and love at a level where one can see his hand and his work, and knows how to participate in it.

Application: This remains my prayer now for some time, that I may better know my purpose within the context of God's love. I was thinking about this again last night, and I do understand how I participate in activities within my church. I see how I can serve, and serve well, to support his kingdom. And perhaps that is my purpose ... to remain in a secular world during the day, through which I receive my blessings from the Lord, and to serve him by small acts of service of assistance to others at my church. There is certainly nothing wrong with any of that.

I keep hoping and praying for some other call. However, right where I am I have great blessing and good work and potential to see the Lord's love around me. This is all good. I will continue to pray for wisdom and revelation about the Lord. I do desire more knowledge and understanding and insight. I fervently want the Holy Spirit to guide me, and for myself to be more obedient to that guidance on a daily basis. But I also see this is good where I am at this time, for as long as the Lord desires me here, and I'm sure I will get new vision and new instructions when his time is perfect.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for my call. May I serve you well, right here and now, in everything you would have me do. I do desire deeper wisdom and understanding, but I also desire your will above all else, for your wisdom is perfect. Amen.

Separation is a Human Act

Scripture:
This is what the Lord says:
Where is your mother’s divorce certificate
that I used to send her away?
Or to which of my creditors did I sell you?
Look, you were sold for your iniquities,
and your mother was sent away
because of your transgressions.
Isaiah 50:1

Observation: In response to the idea that the Lord has abandoned his people, the Lord says this ... as you can clearly see, I absolutely did not abandon you! There is no act of abandonment or separation initiated by the Lord. He did not 'divorce' his people, no sell them into slavery. Instead, the people left him. By the act of their sins - the fact they actively chose to depart from the Lord and reject his love - the very acts the Lord told them of as promised outcomes occurred. It was people, not the Lord, that chose separation.

Application: I have been wondering about separation from the Lord ... specifically about my lack of insight, spirit, and understanding about my purpose. I have wondered why the Lord has not given me more clarity, more opportunity to serve, and more of the Holy Spirit in my heart. I have wished he would further soften my heart and show me his will for my life.

It is clearly not the Lord who has pulled away from me. When I am not close to God, it is because I have moved away, not him. The Lord would never separate from me, but by my actions I separate from his love.

Prayer: Lord, today I move closer to you, and desire to always be moving toward you. I desire so much to walk your path, holding your hand, guided by my daddy. Thank you for teaching me about your steadfast love. Amen.

The Spirit Far Above the Law

Scripture: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things. [Or Against such things there is no law] Galatians 5:22-23

Observation: These verses are Paul's famous "fruits of the Spirit", declaring those characteristics that we should see within ourselves when we are filled by the Holy Spirit. He ends the list with the line that is usually translated "against such things there is no law", but in this translation reads "the law is not against such things".

The interesting element is that it is "the law" Paul has been discussing for ... well, for this entire letter to the Galatians. "The law" is exactly that, the law of Moses; the law handed down by God to the Jews; the thing which we as Christians are free from, and that we must not be seeking to comply with. Over and over, Paul has said that the law exists to guide our earthly (or 'flesh') lives, and faith exists to guide our spiritual lives, and thus by faith in Jesus we can now live spirit-filled lives instead of being slaves to earthly flesh. And yet now, Paul provides a list of qualities we should have in our lives, and concludes that list by aligning them to that very law.

While I am not certain, I suspect that Paul is actually saying something deeper here, and something that continues his lesson about the law. In verses 19-21, he listed many behaviors that are "works of the flesh", and anyone can read this list and know immediately that all of them are addressed by some law. He then therefore highlights the next list of positive qualities are not addressed by any law. A better translation (in my opinion) might read "about these qualities the law is silent". This would be because - again - the law addresses our weak, earthly, flesh-driven behaviors. These qualities are pure and spirit-driven, therefore the law is silent as to them ... the law is not against them because they aren't even part of the earthly issues the law is designed to address.

In other words, the law exists to address our base sinful behaviors. The Holy Spirit instead leads us to an entirely different set of behaviors, and if we live in that spirit then the correction won't really matter, because we will be living differently. This is truly why we don't need to live by the law ... because if we live by the Spirit, we will live according to the law without even really trying.

Application: I cannot tell you how much I truly wish I lived with the fruit of the Spirit in my heart. It would change my life.

I know I am growing in this. I have SO much more of all these characteristics than I had 15 years ago. Yet I also know I am not filled with them, and struggle most with self-control. I feel this means the Holy Spirit has decided I am not yet worthy for him to fully embrace ... that somehow I push him away too often and so I have a little of him, but not a fullness. I wish this would change.

Prayer: Lord, with all my heart I desire more of you and your Spirit in my heart. May there be more of you, and MUCH less of me, within this earthly body. Amen.

Avoiding Justification Stumbling Stones

Scripture: Take note! I, Paul, am telling you that if you get yourselves circumcised, Christ will not benefit you at all. Again I testify to every man who gets himself circumcised that he is obligated to do the entire law. Galatians 5:2-3

Observation: Paul continues to address the issue of legal compliance. He makes this statement very, very strongly, that if someone attempts to justify themselves through the law, then the salvation of Jesus is meaningless. He even draws a firm line in the sand ... if a gentile gets circumcised - which would be the act that marks someone as a Jewish convert - then they must now obey Judaism and thus are obligated to the entire law.

Application: As I learn the law more and more, and see great benefit in obedience to it, beyond the obvious moral law elements. There were practices instituted in the law that were designed to assist with someone's awareness of the Lord, and thus their faithfulness. One of these included the tassels on their robes, which in time evolved into prayer shawls. Modern versions include scripture to remind the wearer of the Lord's greatness, and there are versions for Christians with New Testament reminders of Jesus.

I have considered getting one of these! They seem like a great way to remind myself to pray ... to have a physical clue that would call my mind to the Lord from time to time, and to pray into my problems more proactively. There seems to me that nothing in that sentence - from the motivation to be closer to the Lord, to the desire to pray more - has any negative implication at all.

However, the prayer shawls are part of the law. The use of tassels to motivate Jewish practices is called out multiple times in the law. The primary modern use is explicitly for devout Jewish men, and the Christian versions - while generalized as 'Christian' - are seemingly marketed toward Messianic Jews. Jesus was known to wear a prayer shawl, and likely all the disciples did too, but Jesus and they were in fact Jewish by birth and education and culture.

So I am left with this question: If I used a prayer shawl, would that place me 'under the law'? Would I be forsaking my salvation because I was seeking justification through Jewish practices and ritual, and not by faith in Jesus?

That is not how I view my heart in this matter. I am not seeking Jewish law as a means to salvation. I am only seeking ways of improving my obedience to the Lord, through methods that he himself recommended. However, I would not want to head in a direction that may confuse such matters, for myself or for anyone else around me. I will give up this thought, and seek other means for improving my prayer life.

Prayer: Lord, may I find ways to be closer to you every day. I do seek to pray more, and to simply find myself praying to you in my every moment of joy, need, worry, stress, and happiness. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.

Receiving Messiah's Wages

Scripture:
See, the Lord God comes with strength,
and his power establishes his rule.
His wages are with him,
and his reward accompanies him.
Isaiah 40:10

Observation: Taken in hole as a Messianic prophesy, Isaiah 40 defines the amazing truth about the purpose of Messiah. This verse specifically addresses the fact that the Messiah delivers with him the "reward" for faith. All other rewards from the Lord - both before and after - are a secondary outpouring of his love, but the reward brought with and through the Messiah is special. That reward is eternal life with God, found in faith to Messiah.

Application: In total, today I read this chapter in a new way and new understanding. It so well defines many, many elements of Jesus' coming and mission. Verse 3 is often applied to John the Baptist as herald of the Messiah's coming, but even before, verses 1-2 declare that the arrival of Jesus also fulfills Israel's mission ... it is the delivery of Messiah to redeem all mankind for which the Abrahamic covenant existed. The messages then delivered throughout chapter 40 are amazing. The Messiah will:

-- Reinforce the permanence of God's word

-- Bring good news

-- Literally present God to the entire world

-- Protect mankind as the good shepherd

-- Give new direction to the Holy Spirit

-- Prove more real than manmade idols

-- Become the judge of all nations

-- Make the way of God fully known and seen

-- Uphold the endurance of even the old and young and powerless

In all of this, Jesus brings a reward for me. His rule is established, and by following that rule I receive my wages ... a heavenly home. Yes, this requires endurance, but the Lord gives us that endurance by his spirit. Yes, this requires reverence, but the Lord clearly shows his worthiness as the almighty creator of the universe. Yes, this requires faith, but the Lord gave Jesus as my caretaker in whom I can have faith.

Prayer: Lord, you are wonderful and powerful and just and merciful and loving and strong. I praise you in my heart, and with my voice, and by my acts. Holy, holy, holy are you, Lord God almighty. In faith to Jesus I declare you to be my Lord and my God, knowing your promises are sure, your ways are good, and your purposes are wonderful. Amen, and amen.