Acknowledging Jesus' Kingship

Scripture: So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Don’t write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that He said, ‘I am the King of the Jews.’” Pilate replied, “What I have written, I have written.” John 19:21-22

Observation: Pilate had a choice in sentencing Jesus. He could release Jesus, or sentence him to death. It was the Jews who forced the matter by declaring that Jesus' actual crime was rebellion against Caesar. With that charge, Pilate was politically trapped. However, in writing out the charge for crucifixion, Pilate has another choice regarding the nature of the rebellion. Claiming to be a king would likely be enough in the eyes of Rome. However, Pilate actively chooses a different charge ... he deliberately - and even against protests - charges Jesus with actual kingship.

At the very least, Pilate has seen the activities around Jerusalem for the last few days. He saw hundreds of thousands of people change Jesus' name as he rode into the city. He saw Herod humbly ask for an audience with Jesus. And now he sees the action of the chief priest for what it is, fear of a loss of authority among the Jews. Jesus may not have sat on a throne, but Pilate wrote what he wrote on purpose.

Application: I see from time to time people who are opposed to Jesus - either actively or passively - who yet live under the authority of Jesus. They do not know that the order of the universe that guides their decisions is part of the order of heaven. Moreover, they do not know that their alliance with the deceptions of our time is the same as joining a rebellion, and this rebellion against such authority is proof itself of the authority of Jesus in this world.

Pilate understood that only a great, powerful, and important man was worthy of such guile, betrayal, and rebellious efforts as exhibited by the Jews. Resistance against God is proof of the authority of Jesus. This is a logical discussion, where of course often logic is not of use, but it remains true.

Prayer: My Lord and my King, you are the ruler of my life, and the only authority in this world. May your ways prevail, and your time come soon. We seek your return and your kingdom. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Exploring Ultimate Truth

Scripture:
“You are a king then?” Pilate asked.
“You say that I’m a king,” Jesus replied. “I was born for this, and I have come into the world for this: to testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to My voice.”
“What is truth?” said Pilate.
John 18:37-38

Observation: As Pilate questions Jesus, his final question goes unanswered in the text. "What is truth?" is clearly both a philosophical and rhetorical question. However, it is relevant to Jesus as he has introduced the fact that his mission is to testify to the truth. He declares himself to be truth. Furthermore, it is this truth that aligns to kingship - Jesus has been born for this testimony of the truth, just like a king is born to rule as the child of the prior king. This testimony about the truth is a hereditary act.

In the case of Pilate, his task wasn't to determine truth, but rather what to do about Jesus. Truth of Jesus - as king, Messiah, prophet, rebel, or victim - didn't really matter. Rather, he was to determine what to do in light of the opinions of the Jews. Eventually he would find a loophole that allowed him to both find Jesus innocent and sentence him to death. That result wasn't about truth.

Application: Discussions about Jesus are rarely about the truth. They are more often about the emotions of how Jesus makes people feel. Some feel threatened, some joyful, some blessed, some judged. In every case, this has much more to do about the truth about one's self that about Jesus.

Jesus is the truth. In asking "what is truth?", Pilate was getting at the point of absolute truth ... wondering aloud if it really existed. He would likely say no, it does not, as he effectively dismissed the quest for truth as even being the obligation of himself as a judge with capital authority. However, Jesus claimed truth as his true mission. He exists to declare to the truth, and all who seek ultimate truth will listen to his words.

Prayer: Lord, may I seek your truth daily. I intend to walk in your word, embracing the idea that there is, in fact, an ultimate truth that is found only in you. I would strive to align my life to that truth, even when others dismiss its very existence or embrace concepts that provide alternatives to their lives and lifestyles. May I strive only to live in the truth. Amen.

Never Free Without You

I try to make it out alone without your help,
But I know I'll never win this war.

This is the sound of chains breaking.
This is the beat of a heart changing.
This is a song of a soul forgiven.

Sweating the Details of the Mission

Scripture: Then Samuel said:

Does the Lord take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices
as much as in obeying the Lord?

Look: to obey is better than sacrifice,
to pay attention is better than the fat of rams.

1 Samuel 15:22

Observation: The instructions to Saul were straightforward - destroy all the Amalekites and everything they own. Saul took the king alive and kept the best animals alive. Twice he argues that this very act, in fact, aligns to the instructions, despite the very clear difference between what he was told to do and what he did.

Saul gives reasons for not killing all the animals, specifically that they are to be a sacrifice for God. Of course, the also says that it was the men, not him, who took the animals, so claiming his is conducting sacrifices rings untrue. Saul simply didn't do what God told him to do. He took the general action, but ignored the details.

Application: I am actively ignoring details every day. Day in and day out, I believe I am obeying God because I am in this place, and caring for my family, and praying for others. However, I get frustrated and angry, and I am part of confrontations and frustrations. That is not how one loves others - the primary detail God cares about - and thus my location and mission are meaningless because my words and actions fail.

The mission is to "go" ... but the instructions are to make disciples, love one another, care for the downtrodden, speak gentle truth, be wise in interactions, and to teach. Every day I "go" ... and do none of the above. The Lord does not take pleasure in my going, he really just wants me to start paying attention.

Prayer: Dear Lord, please forgive my haughty demeanor. Sometimes I feel I was born angry. I truly wish for a softer heart, and kinder mind, and a loving attitude. I must become lesser, while Jesus becomes greater in all situations around me. Please make in me a new heart. Amen.

Sing Praise in All Things

Scripture:
Shout joyfully to God, all the earth!
Sing about the glory of His name;
make His praise glorious.
Say to God, “How awe-inspiring are Your works!
Your enemies will cringe before You
because of Your great strength.
All the earth will worship You
and sing praise to You.
They will sing praise to Your name.” Selah
Psalm 66:1-4

Observation: Our praises to God rise from our understanding of him and his creation. They are inspired by his works! The works include ... nature and creation itself, his blessing upon our lives, his mercy and judgment against the good and the bad of the world, his mighty power and authority.

Application: Pause and reflect on all of that! Everything - nature and creation for certain, but also the results of daily life and outcomes of life events - reflect the glory of God. They are all worthy of celebration, as God is worthy of all praise and worship. In these things, God inspires us to action, worship, love, and hope.

Prayer: Lord, may I worship you in all things. May I worship your creation, your power, your mercy, your love, your judgment, your authority, and your words. I seek you, and find you, in all things, all times, and all places of my life, this day and every day. Amen.

Avoid Seeking Sameness

Scripture: So all the elders of Israel gathered together and went to Samuel at Ramah. They said to him, “Look, you are old, and your sons do not follow your example. Therefore, appoint a king to judge us the same as all the other nations have.” 1 Samuel 8:4-5

Observation: The end of verse 5 summarizes all the issues for Israel ... they seek to be "the same as all the other nations". They repeat this desire more than once. By their actions in worshiping other gods, by their desire for a king, and by their rejection of the sacrificial practices given to them in the wilderness, they have assimilated and become a people just like all others.

This, of course, is exactly the opposite of the covenant with God. They were to be a separate people. Israel was to be an example to other nations of what it meant to worship the one true God, and visibly receive God's blessing as a result of that uniqueness and dedication. This moment is the true turning point in that vision. As God himself says, the people have rejected God as their king. They desire to be exactly like their neighbors, not just in their personal practices, but in their national structure, government operations, and military posture.

Application: In my mind, this relates to our dinner conversation last night ... the degree to which Christians can and should be treated the same as other religions. The idea of political correctness and tolerance is nice. However, we are to be different. We do understand that there is an absolute truth. We have a mission to tell others about that truth. These ideas mean that we are different - and sometimes distrusted - by others.

Yes, we fail when we act judgmental. It is one thing to tell others about the good news of Jesus. It is another to judge them against teachings they don't know or believe. It is also wrong to assume they do not have a free-will choice to reject the truth. They have that choice, no matter how much it may trouble us, and we cannot treat them as if they must 'comply'.

Like the Jews, we are to be different. Seeking to be the same - and thus treated the same - is a manner of rejecting God.

Prayer: Lord, help me to be different today. I do not wish to spend my day appearing like others, but rather I would like to be different in manner and word. May I be salt and light, humble and merciful, with truth but not judgment. Amen.

Questions of Arrogance

Scripture: Then the Jews surrounded Him and asked, “How long are You going to keep us in suspense? If You are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” John 10:24

Observation: Jesus has been very, very clear about himself. He has called himself the Son of Man, the Son of God. He has declared his knowledge of God as his true father, and declared personal knowledge of the will of God and the heavenly realm. He has outlined the proof that his words, actions, miracles, and knowledge align with the messianic promise. Yet the "Jews" still want him to publicly declare it just so they can charge him with a sin and stone him.

This is in line with all other characters of God. God has provided so many signs, wonders, creations, miracles, and other proofs of his existence, yet people would still want him to appear to them and introduce himself. In the case of God, this is because they are deceived, but also because of a conceit - they think their logic trumps general logic, and that they themselves are important enough to require personal proof from God. This is the same for the Jews - they believed that, as the chosen people - Messiah would be declared to them by God himself, and not simply appearing as a man who happens to fulfill each and every prophesy.

Application: I hope I don't have this kind of arrogance. I hope I do, in fact, see the world, and believe in God for what he has already created, done, shown, and said. I don't require more proof. And I don't think I require personalized evidence. I regret not hearing God's voice, but I actually know I am not worthy of those experiences.

It isn't that God has "better things to do." It's that I have not been faithful enough to be that close to God. Asking God to do something has a level of arrogance, and while I am prideful and certainly not humble enough, I do know that expecting God to interact with me personally isn't in the cards for me. I see his signs, I receive his nudging, I detect his whispers, I perceive his guidance spoken directly to my heart, and I feel the holy spirit. In this, I know he loves me, and I will follow him.

Prayer: Lord, may I walk humbly with you this day and every day. Show me your will so that I may follow, and please forgive me when I struggle or stumble. Thank you for this wonderful creation, and your amazing love. Amen.

Allowing Cooler Heads to Prevail

Scripture:
A fool’s displeasure is known at once,
but whoever ignores an insult is sensible.
Proverbs 12:16

Observation: This very straightforward proverb has an obvious meaning. When a fool is offended or angered, he reacts and responds. However, it is wiser to allow insults and offenses without immediate response. This is a lesson to not respond to something in your anger, but rather to allow emotions to pass and eventually think clearly about the offense and if/when/how to respond.

Application: I chose this today as this can be a weakness of mine. I am often quick to respond to almost any and all situations and statements, especially when I get agitated. I have to prepare my mind for situations where I know people will attack my team, work, of decisions, in order to temper my responses. This is simply a good reminder today ... stay calm in the midst of insults and attacks, and wait for a time for unemotional conversations to occur.

Prayer: Lord, I ask this day for your forgiveness in all matters. Be it my thoughts, words, or actions, I know I fail to obey your guidance, laws, and wishes. Please forgive me for my sins and failures. Amen.

Asking for Attention

Scripture:
God, hear my cry;
pay attention to my prayer.
Psalm 61:1

Observation: This psalm begins like the most common of prayer - an appeal to God to simply listen. The first request of this prayer, and one that anyone who prays can relate with, is simply to ask God to hear us ... to see us ... to consider us just enough to hear our appeal.

Application: Our greatest fear, I think, is being unworthy of God's notice. This isn't a Christian emotion. The unfaithful who question God's existence - in their moments of desperation and hope - pray that God is just there and will care enough to listen and help. Hoping that God cares is core within all humans. Wondering if he cares enough is the source of doubt regarding faith. Doubting his level of attention and care is a sign of shaky belief. Fretting about his timing is common for believers without a lot of direct experience with God.

So we ask God to listen ... to hear our cry, pay attention to our prayer, see our actions, have concern for our circumstance. The truth is, God never takes his eyes off of us, and never shuts his ears to our us. It is completely common to worry about this - clearly even bible authors did - but we can be assured God's love produces his full attention up our words and actions.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your love. Sometimes I wish you didn't see or hear me. However, I am thankful that you care, that you listen, and that you know of our cries and challenges. I know you will watch over myself and my family this day. Please grant us your portion and provision this day, and allow us to serve others out of your abundant love. Amen.

The Centrality of the Messiah

Scripture: As He was saying these things, many believed in Him. John 8:30

Observation: Jesus has a pretty confusing debate with the Pharisees. He effectively pronounces himself as the Messiah, and when challenged about the authority of his claim he states that his father - God - also testifies to this truth. He explains that they don't understand God's testimony because they don't know God. He predicts his death, then explains that they don't understand his words simply because they don't believe in him. It's some confusing language, but hinges on the idea that - if they understood God's promises about salvation - they would see he is the Messiah.

The section ends saying that many believe! This is an out-of-the-blue statement, given that the conversation wasn't with "many" (though Jesus was in the temple court teaching at the time). In other words, there is something more happening. There are two conversations ... one in which Jesus is teaching the masses, and one in which he is getting harangued and heckled by a judgmental few trying to derail the teaching. John is not reporting on the teaching, but only the side-debate.

Application: This is where the random statements can be understood only by reading John through the lens of his purpose in writing the gospel. The early church already had Jesus' teachings, so they didn't need to be told again what Jesus was teaching in the temple. What they didn't have was the arguments about Jesus' lordship. John is filling in the holes left by other writings and oral lessons. There is a body of work around the teachings of love, mercy, and salvation through faith. John is focusing on Jesus' divinity, the single fact of his Messiahship, upon which belief must be based. Without that fact - Jesus as the son of God - Christianity is just a morality system.

This is the entire purpose of John's work. From his signs, to his debates, to his confusing metaphors, this version of the gospel is about one thing: Jesus is the son of God, and it is only in that context that ... obeying his instructions, placing hope in his resurrection, having faith in his love, and telling others the good news ... has any meaning.

Prayer: Lord, Jesus is my Lord and my savior. I know Jesus is the son of God, who existed from the beginning, and by whom all things are created. I believe it all, and place my faith in this hope alone. Amen.

Missing What Is Good

Scripture: Manoah prayed to the Lord and said, “Please Lord, let the man of God you sent come again to us and teach us what we should do for the boy who will be born.” ... Then Manoah asked, “When Your words come true, what will the boy’s responsibilities and mission be?” Judges 13:8,12

Observation: As Judges progresses, we see the sin and problems for Israel mounting. Even when a judge succeeds, other factions rebel against that judge or even turn violent. There is deadly conflict between Israel's tribes, repeated baal worship, and punishment from God.

However, not all is evil. The people are still rich, as the book continues to point out facts that convey prosperity. They have been in the land for hundreds of years, and overall they prosper with family, animals, and harvests. It is in this context of both blessing and rebellion that Manoah appears, a man with prosperity, but no son, in the midst of another Philistine oppression due to Israel's evil. The Angel of the Lord has promised he and his wife a son, and Manoah's faith is evident and steadfast. He does not doubt or question. His wife tells him of a vision, and he prays for wisdom about what to do when this comes to pass. He meets the angel, and immediately wants to prepare himself for how to serve when the miracle happens.

Israel may struggle to follow God, but there are people like Manoah who are firm in faith, unshaken in hope, and confident in the Lord's promises.

Application: When looking around at everything today, it is so easy to focus on the evil that permeates our society. The evil has even become a uniting fabric of some elements of our country. Again, it is difficult not to dwell on these things and mourn for the lost communal faith.

However, there are Manoah's all around. There are faithful believers doing great work, loving others, and living into the promises of God. In their work, the Lord is at work, faith thrives, hope abounds. These things cannot be missed - they should in fact be the focus. I can find these places of hope, and find new strength.

Prayer: Lord, your love is all around. May I focus on that love, and not on anything that is hopeless. May I focus on that which is pure, right, just, and true. And if, as I suspect, one of those pockets of faith is around my son, may I support and serve him as you would have done to make that pocket grow and thrive. Amen.

God's Love is in His Timing

Scripture: When Abimelech had ruled over Israel three years, God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the lords of Shechem. They treated Abimelech deceitfully. Judges 9:22-23

Observation: Abimelech promoted himself to be named king, and had his 70 half-brothers killed. His last remaining brother, Jotham, pronounces a curse upon him and the elders who have done this. The next thing that happens is ... nothing, for three years. Abimelech gets to be king, and everyone goes about their business. Of course, that ends when God decides the time has come, and he creates a rebellion between the elders and Abimelech, and everyone dies while entire cities are destroyed and baal temples burned down.

God does have a timing to everything, and the time between an evil action and God's judgment can take many forms. It can even look like blessing and peace. That may be because the judgment requires a proportionality that can only be achieved over time. If the elders and had 'oh, we shouldn't have made Abimelech king' and just removed him, that wouldn't have suited the evil of Abimelech nor of their own baal worship. By building the conflict, the judgment was complete and terrible.

Application: There are times I fear I am living in a time between my former evil actions and my future judgment. When I'm strong, I know that isn't true. I have repented, turned my life to God, accepted Jesus as my Lord and savior, and been forgiven. This is another reason for God's delayed judgment - the chance to repent - and I thank God for that delay.

However, I am not always willing to grant that delay to others. I wonder why some "wrongs" don't receive swift divine retribution. Certainly it is because God is wishing for their repentance.

God's timing, therefore, is further proof of his love. He is willing to hold his hand in the hopes of reconciliation. I was blessed by that love, and received God's greatest gift only because he did give me time to repent. I can both understand and accept that same opportunity for all others.

Prayer: Lord, there are people who I feel have hurt me, or will hurt me in the future. I hope I never again ask for their swift punishment and judgment. May part of the softening of my heart be an understanding of your timing, and confidence that you will address all matters as is ultimately appropriate, not reactionary to certain mistakes. You showed this love to me. May I at least understand that love when extended to all others. Amen.

Learning While Rejecting the Teacher

Scripture: If I testify about Myself, My testimony is not valid. There is Another who testifies about Me, and I know that the testimony He gives about Me is valid. John 5:31-32

Observation: Jesus says there is another who testifies about him, and then lists at least four:

-- John the Baptist, through his word
-- Jesus' works, through their power
-- God, through the prophets
-- Moses, through the scriptures

It is through Moses that Jesus says the doubters will be accused in the end, for they read and learn the law, and yet cannot understand it in the context of the Messiah. They study all the rules, and then pursue compliance without a heart of love, compassion, and understanding. This is what was always meant by the law being a blessing and a curse ... it represents a way to be close to God and understand his will, but it also can be a stumbling stone when either compliance fails, or when 'belief' becomes just a compliance effort.

The law presented the hope, function, and purpose of the future Messiah. The prophets presented how to recognize the Messiah. John prepared the way and announced the coming of the Messiah. Jesus fulfilled the signs to show he was the Messiah. The Jews "knew" all of this ... and rejected Jesus.

Application: Is there anything I know about God, Jesus, salvation, faith ... and the ignore it when it's right in front of my face? Are there things I have learned and thus focus on the learning and not the lesson? The answer is 'yes', and it is summarized in one word. Love.

I fail to love others. I pray to follow Jesus' instructions, then ignore the one thing he would set as primary among those instructions. I often view others as the problems I have every day, and seek guidance about how to overcome those problems, instead of seeing that these people are beloved souls in need of hope, set before me so that I may in fact do God's will in their lives.

I am a Pharisee. I know the teaching, and pursue it to the point that I actively ignore and even reject that very teaching in the name of the teacher. This is the path I fail to walk daily with my Lord.

Prayer: Lord, help me to correct my heart and receive a new heart toward others. Yes, I seek your will, but you have shown it to me and I still wander in brambles and ditches instead of simply walking your path. May I have new eyes this day and every day, and observe your teaching. Amen.

Passing the Tests of Faith

Scripture: The Lord said to Gideon, “You have too many people for Me to hand the Midianites over to you, or else Israel might brag: ‘I did it myself.’ Now announce in the presence of the people: ‘Whoever is fearful and trembling may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.’” So 22,000 of the people turned back, but 10,000 remained. Judges 7:2-3

Observation: In preparation for defeating the Midianites, God first winnows Gideon's army down from 32,000 to 300. He does this through two tests. The second test determines who is used to bowing down to the ground, and thus commonly worships Baal. The first is simpler ... whoever is afraid can leave.

These are both tests of faith in God. This first test is a test of the heart of faith, with a public profession, effectively asking who believes in protection and power of God and is willing to publicly stand with that faith. The second is a test of the mind of faith, with a private confession, determining who has resisted popular opinion and therefore avoided any sort of secret idol worship practices. Unfortunately, the result is that only one percent of the original force passes both tests, with over two thirds of them simply deciding they don't trust God and leaving out of fear.

Application: Would I pass this first test? If told, 'here is the task ahead, God will deliver us, if you're afraid you can leave' ... would I stay? I believe I would, but it is a test that I think is telling of all communities of faith. We may all "believe in God", yet how many proceed bravely, and without having compromised certain issues in their private lives?

I do believe I would pass both tests, and I seek strength to ensure that every day. I certainly try not to compromise any element of my faith, and it has hurt me when it comes to work and relationships in the past. I would love to stand with Gideon.

Prayer: Lord, I strive to never compromise. Please correct me where I have done so in my life, so I may better align my public and private life with your will, your love, and your teaching. Amen.

When God Directly Engages

Scripture: The Angel of the Lord went up from Gilgal to Bochim and said, "I brought you out of Egypt and led you into the land I had promised to your fathers. I also said: I will never break My covenant with you. You are not to make a covenant with the people who are living in this land, and you are to tear down their altars. But you have not obeyed Me. What is this you have done?" Judges 2:1-2

Observation: Despite having taken and occupying the land, Israel then (mostly) fails to expel the Canaanites from their country. In response, God himself rebukes them. He speaks to them of this failure, and re-enforces the curse that these foreign people - with their foreign gods and practices - will be the source of temptation that will trap Israel and lead them away from their covenant promises.

This initial interaction is interesting in two regards. First, God travels from Gilgal to Bochim (believed to be at or near Bethel). The fact God is perceived to be in a specific place seems ... odd. Gilgal is a significant place to Israel, but why they think God lives there is not clear. Second, God speaks directly ... something he has not done since early in the wilderness when the community was afraid to hear his voice. There is no prophet, priest, judge, or intermediary mentioned here. The word of God is delivered directly and in first person by The Angel of the Lord.

Israel is failing. They are not in rebellion, but they are not fully complying either. This is, of course, just the start, and it seems minor. They have simply not driven foreigners out of the land. However, God is clear that they are not following his instructions. One would think that the appearance of God to clarify this point would have driven it home. Instead, it simply highlights the onramp to trouble.

Application: God directly engages to correct Israel. He cares enough to do this for everyone and everything. Yes, sometimes God works through others, but he also gets personally involved. This is something to look for ... along the same lines of looking for where God is at work and joining him there, I should also look for where God is personally engaging and pay attention to his instruction, correction, and teaching there.

Prayer: Lord, may I find where you are engaged today, this weekend, and every day. I do seek to join you in those situations, and to hear your teaching. May my heart be soft to receive your guidance, and not hard to resist or find the easier path. Amen.

The Search for Complete Joy

Scripture: John responded, “No one can receive a single thing unless it’s given to him from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Messiah, but I’ve been sent ahead of Him.’ He who has the bride is the groom. But the groom’s friend, who stands by and listens for him, rejoices greatly at the groom’s voice. So this joy of mine is complete. He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:27-30

Observation: John the Baptist clearly understands who he is, and who Jesus is. Specifically, he himself is not the Messiah, and Jesus is the Messiah. John was the messenger simply preparing the way. He describes that here as being the best man at a wedding. He might be all dressed up, but the best man isn't the groom. That said, he is not saddened that this is not his weeding, but rather is celebrating at the arrival and joy of the groom!

John ends this section with three thoughts. The famous - and often quoted line from Christian athletes and others - is that Jesus must increase, and John must decrease ... in notoriety, fame, stature, and influence. However, the line before - that John's joy is complete - is telling. John knows his work is done. Messiah has arrived, John has prepared others to join him, and the are now turning to Jesus. John knows his mission is complete, and completed successfully.

Application: There is joy to be found in knowing what you are supposed to do, and then knowing you completed that work successfully. John the Baptist had a historic mission, which had been preordained centuries before. He took on that work, and delivered. He could now step aside - retire if you will - with full joy that he had done well.

How wonderful it would be just to know your life's mission, let alone do it well. We just had such a conversation last night ... wondering what lies ahead of our entire family as we enter an new phase of life. I have never known my mission. I think I'm doing things well, but I just don't know. Without knowing what I'm supposed to be doing, I can't find a yard stick to measure quality, let alone a finish line to eventually declare successful completion.

I seek mission and purpose and promises. I receive correction and places and tasks. Of course, I can't consider myself in the context of John the Baptist. It would be nice to understand more, but perhaps I am still in the mode of trying to be obedient with just a little. I will continue to try.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I do seek your word every day. However, I will find joy in just walking blindly on your path. If you will hold my hand, I will walk humbly with you wherever you lead. I do not really need to know why, and I will trust in the end result just like John did, even without defined goals. Thank you for loving me so, so much, ever day. Amen.

It's a Beautiful Day

I'm about to get my worship on ...

The First of Many Signs

Scripture: Jesus performed this first sign in Cana of Galilee. He displayed His glory, and His disciples believed in Him. John 2:11

Observation: John makes a distinction between the "signs" and miracles of Jesus. While miraculously heals many and performs many wondrous acts, John designates seven events as signs. These include certain healings (like the raising of Lazarus), but also actions performed in a manner that supersedes the natural laws (walking on water, feeding of 5,000). The changing of water into wine is the first sign.

It is not clear why John identified certain miracles as "signs", though their is symbolism in there being seven of them of course. While some of the signs are truly amazing, others are at best no greater than any others. Therefore, it may be that these seven events had a more profound impact on the disciples themselves, as reinforced by this verse. The disciples did not just watch, but experienced this first hand. Jesus has already healed paralytics, blind eyes, and sick people. Yet here he alters nature, and the disciples watched the transformation - even participating and partaking. This is a "sign" not because it was a great miracle compared to others, but because of the way the disciples themselves - and perhaps John specifically - interacted with the event in a manner that altered his sense of Jesus, the Messiah, and even the world.

Application: For everyone, Jesus is most real not during logical discussions or study, but during first-hand interaction. This has always been true, from Adam to now. The signposts we all point to in our lives when we look back and declare changes in attitude, opinions, or beliefs, are personal experiences.

Jesus still provides those personal experiences. My life was changed by one, and I still have them ... I had one this morning while praying about back pain. There is no way to avoid belief when God just shows up and acts. This requires our response, reinforces our faith, and provides comfort and confidence for our days.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your very real presence in my daily life. I know you show signs every day. Please be with those who do not see them. And may those who do be uplifted by your works. Amen.

Time to Avoid the Fight

Scripture:
When pride comes, disgrace follows,
but with humility comes wisdom.
Proverbs 11:2

Observation: Again, the Proverbs address pride and humility, in this case directly associated humility and wisdom. Conversely, pride is aligned to disgrace.

Application: In the last two weeks, I have been getting so angry and frustrated, and I feel myself crossing over the line where I will begin engaging in confrontation. This will ruin credibility, create enemies, and eliminate the possibility of progress for both my work and the people around me. At its root is my pride - or at the very least, my lack of humility. Being humble is hard, especially around arrogant people who will attack and deride and insult. Those things ... hurt. Yes, maybe they shouldn't as I know I should look to God for my value. However, they do, though of course my efforts to fight against them hurt too, just in different ways.

I would seek wisdom. Therefore, I must find humility. I think it will hurt to do so, but God's truth is likely that humility will instead produce true joy, success, and worth.

Prayer: Lord, I ask today for the strength to not fight, the temperament to not get angry, the heart of leadership that would make me the least. I serve you alone, and not myself. Amen.

The Bonfire of Life

Scripture: So they said to each other, “Weren’t our hearts ablaze within us while He was talking with us on the road and explaining the Scriptures to us?” Luke 24:32

Observation: The disciples have been confused about what happened regarding Jesus crucifixion, but while two of them are leaving Jerusalem Jesus has spent time with them explaining everything about the Messiah. When they figure out that this person is in fact Jesus, this is their emotion - that their "hearts" were "ablaze" while learning the scriptures.

The Holy Spirit has not yet come to them to fill them with understanding, yet learning from Jesus himself has the same effect. It gives them hope, lifts their spirits, provides them with wisdom and understanding, and finally also energizes them from the inside out. They have so much energy, in fact, that after walking seven miles to Emmaus, they joyfully turn right around and walk the seven miles back to report in with the other disciples.

Application: It is the energy of the truth and of hope that sustains me every day. I cannot imagine my life without that power. I cannot imagine what I would "live for" if not for faith in Jesus. The emptiness couldn't be filled by things as superficial as work, money, or sports.

The disciples were learning of this hope - they were about to transition from confusion and fear to joy and purpose - and that learning set their hearts ablaze. Ablaze!! On fire, empowered, ignited, burning hot. I imagine that as they listed to Jesus - not knowing who he was - the revelation of the scripture ignited all that hope ... like their three years of following Jesus and hoping he was Messiah had built a pile of wood and kindling ready to be lit, and hearing the lesson that made it all true was like pouring gas on the pile and throwing a match on it.

Understanding the truth lit their lives. It continues to light my life every day. While I get distracted - in constructive and destructive, good and bad, ways - every day, Jesus is my center and my purpose. I will stay on fire for him.

Prayer: Lord, light a fire in me today. Amen.

All from the Lord's Blessing

Scripture:
The Lord’s blessing enriches,
and struggle adds nothing to it.
Proverbs 10:22

Observation: As many of the proverbs are very straightforward, so is this one. For those who honor God and receive blessings, working even harder to achieve more and more for yourself is pointless. God's blessing is all you need, and everything you receive - you earn nothing through your own efforts.

Application: I am completely aware that all I have - job, family, life, health, home, rest, food, comfort - is from the Lord. He is my total provider. I have failed in almost every possible way to advance my own life, and he has succeeded in giving to me a full life despite my failures. I cannot receive more by struggling more, by working harder, or by grasping for something greater. The Lord provides.

Prayer: Yahweh Yireh, you are my provider, my strength, my hope. Lord, I seek you every day. May I always embrace only your will for my life, my work, my home, and my family. Thank you, my Lord and my God. Amen.

Leading by God's Example

Scripture: There on the stones, Joshua copied the law of Moses, which he had written in the presence of the Israelites. Joshua 8:32

Observation: One of the laws from Moses was that, when Israel had a king, the king is to write out his own copy of the law. With the defeat of Jericho and Ai, Joshua does exactly this.

Joshua is never the king of Israel. He is the next leader after Moses, commanding the military efforts, and aiding all the people in judging their actions and discerning right from wrong according to the law, but he is not 'king'. However, he is fulfilling that role, and in performing the commanded tasks he is publicly assuming that mantle. From now until the land is opened and the tribes granted their portions, Joshua is the indisputable leader of the country in every possible way. Yet he never really has a title ... Joshua is not king, or judge, or prophet, or general, or priest.

Joshua is the consummate leader. He may have been granted authority by God and visibly handed that authority by Moses' conference and God's miracles, but he retains that authority simply by exercising leadership. He follows the law, establishes goals, defines strategy, communicates vision, orders tactics. In all of this, he does the right things when he confers with God, and fails when he fails to do so.

Application: While I have leadership by both position and gifting, I am better at it when I confer with God. I don't do that enough. I may do it on some individual matters, and in a very general way in seeking overall guidance, but I do not bring daily decisions to God. This would be an interesting practice, asking God about ... application strategy, project recovery issues, and service quality standards. It would be interesting, and it would also be ... helpful. Perhaps God doesn't care about all those things, and perhaps I wouldn't always hear answers. Or I might get amazing instructions, visible ways to proceed, and tremendous success.

Running an IT department is not like conquering the promised land or settling God's chosen people. But I don't need to worry about a grand title to lead like Joshua.

Prayer: Lord, I will try to remember to bring my daily work to you more often. I do have decisions to make, issues to address, and challenges to overcome. I have people who need vision and direction. May I consult you more and more. Amen.

When the Manna Stops

Scripture: The day after Passover they ate unleavened bread and roasted grain from the produce of the land. And the day after they ate from the produce of the land, the manna ceased. Since there was no more manna for the Israelites, they ate from the crops of the land of Canaan that year. Joshua 5:11-12

Observation: Israel crosses the Jordan, celebrates Passover, eats a normal meal from the produce in the promised land for the first time, and ... manna ceases to exist. The bread of heaven, which had fallen every morning, six days a week, for 40 years, will never be seen again. The obvious reason is simple - Israel doesn't need it anymore. God has always promised to provide for Israel, and that provision is now the good abundance of Canaan. They simply don't need another food source anymore.

Still, it is a little sad that the manna stops. Manna was supernatural. It was unexplainable in texture and taste. Its name effectively means 'what is this'. It didn't have a lot of substance, but it was fulfilling. It fell like moisture but would dry out. It had some qualities similar to spice seeds. It spoiled quickly, except on the Sabbath. Yet it was its own thing, not quite like any other thing. To our knowledge, it lasted here on earth only for the one purpose of feeding Israel during their wilderness journey. And just like that - one the day Israel can now eat food from the promised land - it is gone.

Application: When God provides for me - for anyone - he does so in perfect alignment to his promises. However, God's timing may mean that his provision comes to us in increments and changes over time. In this example, God promised the people an abundant life. He eventually delivered them into that life in the promised land. That said, during the intervening 40 years, he provided an alternative food source. This food was not the fulfillment of the promise, but it was aligned to it in that they were never in a state of want while they awaited the abundant land.

Today, I seek God's promises. I wonder how much of my life is the fulfilled promise, and how much is a stop-gap blessing until I grow and live into the promise. Either way, I see that even God's stop-gaps are amazing! They are wondrous, ponderous, and marvelous. They themselves are true blessings, even if there is something even better on the way.

Just as I feel a little sad when I read that manna stops forever, I feel I could comfortably and happily live with whatever blessings God provides. Yet I don't want to get content if he has other things even greater planned. I wish to continue to live into his love, and I will be prepared to leave behind certain things in order to move forward, if it is the Lord's will.

Prayer: Lord, your word is my answer to prayer today. I will be comfortable with new stages of life and changes in my world, when it is your will and your plan for the lives of my family. I may be a little sad, but I will anticipate the next phase of your provision. Amen.

God's Ongoing Partnership with Us

Scripture: They discussed it among themselves: “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say, ‘Why didn’t you believe him?’ But if we say, ‘From men,’ all the people will stone us, because they are convinced that John was a prophet.” So they answered that they did not know its origin. And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.” Luke 20:5-8

Observation: In response to the question about his authority Jesus asks the Pharisees about the authority of John. They have two possible options - God or humans - and choose not to answer, and therefore Jesus will not answer.

In this, we see there are two options when in comes to heavenly authority. One is God ... that it is the Lord who provides all authority and power to prophets, saints, and Jesus. The other option is mankind ... that it is humans who decide to grant authority over themselves and thus respond to teaching. The Pharisees believed these were independent concepts - valid teaching came from God's authority, but behavior like John and Jesus was simply being responded to by ignorant people and thus they had "power" from their followers only. On the other hand, since they followed the law, they had authority of heaven, though obviously had zero validation from people.

The Pharisees failed to recognize that the true authority has always been a partnership between God and people. God grants his spirit for power and words, but it is in the response of people that authority manifests. God doesn't need people to respond to his teaching, but he teaches in order for people to respond. The supernatural gifting of authority by God, and the responsive granting of authority by believers, are the unified fulfillment of God's teaching.

Application: God always has authority over my life. However, his authority is complete when I join with him. This partnership could be in obedience to law, service to others, prayer and conversation, and reflection on his word. This is a loving way to command ... this is God choosing to not force me and bend me to his will, but rather allowing me to join him in his plan. This I seek to do better and better.

Prayer: Lord, I ask again for forgiveness of my sins and wayward heart. I desire to follow, obey, join, and walk with you. I truly seek your spirit to aid in my repentance from evil, and strength to align my life with your authority. Amen.

God's Promise is Always a Choice

Scripture: I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Choose life so that you and your descendants may live. Deuteronomy 30:19

Observation: Even as Moses gives his final words to Israel, speaking the summary of the commands, he encourages them to make the choice to love God. This has always been a choice of the people, and always will be a choice for them. It is an permanent choice for all people. God has never forced himself on mankind - it is freewill that is within the likeness of God of mankind - and every human can choose 'life' or 'death'.

Application: I choose life. I worry daily that others have chosen death without even knowing it. We are not in a time and place where a modern-day Moses has spelled it out for everyone and then offered them the choice. Today, there are many who have chosen a life in rebellion against God without full understanding of the nature of the love of God that they are rebelling against.

But they are against God. They do know of laws, and actively fight against them. They, in fact, do know that there are two paths for them to select, and they intentionally choose a path lined with earthly visions that stands opposed to God's law. They choose the path that is well-kept by Satan. It is easy to walk, surrounded by pleasant sights, well lit, and with plenty of professional guides to assist. The ignore the path that is straight, narrow, unadorned, lined with cautionary signs, with one Jewish carpenter inviting them to select this option and several amateur travelers waving to them to join them.

They may be ignorant of God, but they are not ignorant of the choice.

Prayer: Lord, make me this day a better fellow traveler. May I invite more to join me on your path. May I introduce them to Jesus so they can trust his invitation and advice. Amen.

Upon Considering her Future

Dear Lord,

I guess we are near the point of making decisions about Kayla's future. I do not understand your plan. I see her through earthly eyes, filtered by a father's heart. I see a young woman who is brilliant, passionate, and driven. I see her amazing memory and he quick mind, along with her desire to help others, now coupled with a genuine interest in psychology, and I believe she could be a counselor for the broken, and a guide for the lost. I also know her brilliance in all other matters, and believe she could pursue those next phases of her life in any place you would choose for her.

And instead, there is a path laid before her that is completely independent of fulfilling that potential. It is a path of pain, poorness, and likely failure. It is a path she would walk alone and far away. It will have fear, doubt, hardship, and loneliness. Yet it aligns to her joy.

Yahweh, Abba, Adonai, Elohim, Jehovah, El Shaddai ... I only pray two things.

First, please forever have your hand on the life, safety, and direction of my daughter. May you guide her path and ways and thoughts and goals. May you set her mind on the path that both honors you and protects her. Please give her the full life of your promise.

And second, may I be strong enough to listen and obey your direction now, and to trust this great possession into your hands.

In the name of Jesus, amen, and amen.

Behavior that Creates Awe

Scripture: The Lord will establish you as His holy people, as He swore to you, if you obey the commands of the Lord your God and walk in His ways. Then all the peoples of the earth will see that you are called by Yahweh’s name, and they will stand in awe of you. Deuteronomy 28:9-10

Observation: As Moses reveals the blessings that will come to Israel by following Jesus, he summarizes the covenant promises. The promises are contingent on obedience at the very simplest level - not committing the most obvious sins - and the resulting blessings involve good harvests, abundance from livestock, and strong families. However, one statement isn't about a blessing, it's about the observations of outsiders.

When Israel visibly obeys the Lord, outsiders will be in awe of them. It doesn't say the people of the earth will be jealous of their wealth, or in awe of their prosperity. And it doesn't tie the 'awe' to the outward results of their blessings. Instead ... when Israel is clearly the holy people of the Lord and called by his name, the nations of the earth will be in awe of them. This is more about a connection to God. The nations will be in awe of that connection and relationship - of the dedication to the Lord - and not the riches of the people.

Application: Jesus tells us repeatedly that it is not our words, but our lives, that reveal Jesus' love to others. By my life - not my words - others are to see my faith. Just like Israel, it is by the relationship that others are to be impressed and thus seek a deeper understanding of just what is going on.

I doubt my life provides "awe" to others. This is a problem to continue to address. I wish to live in a way that others would wonder just what in the world is going on ... that I would forsake worldly attention, honor, comfort, and material in exchange for obedience to God related to relationships, language, giving, and care for others. As God promises, this is the source to true blessing.

Prayer: Lord, I know I have been blessed by you. May I be a blessing to others. May my deeds this day and every day be about honoring you in action, thought, word, and deed, without concern for the views and attitude of the world. Amen.

Asking Only Workman's Wages

Scripture: I’ll get up, go to my father, and say to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I’m no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired hands. Luke 15:18-19

Observation: There is a common understanding of the story of prodigal son that says, when the son has realized his errors, he finds the courage to return home to beg to rejoin his family. That isn't the case - the son returns home to request to become a bond servant. He doesn't seek to become part of the family, he seeks a job ... we wants to be paid wages, not inheritance. In other words, he doesn't even have an aspiration to be the son anymore, but rather he hopes he can just be a person who works hard enough to earn what he needs to survive.

Application: I remember this attitude about salvation ... that maybe, when I returned to God, I could then do the things I needed to do and work hard enough to just have a decent life. Maybe I would change, be a better person, and that would make things go better for me. Of course that isn't how it works. Instead, God just loves me, adopts me as his son, all because I believe in Jesus.

However, there is something to the prodigal's attitude and actions. He humbly returns without expectation, but with just some hope of an okay life. That sums up a lot of the people I see at Alpha. That sums up the necessary first step for a lot of the people I see daily ... a step they can't imagine taking. Maybe it's because they are eating from the pig trough and therefore aren't aware they are starving to death. Maybe it's because they can't possibly find humility before God. Maybe it's because their wild exploits provide artificial comforts. Maybe it's because they never had an example of the father with the resources needed to provide for them.

I had that example, and I knew I was starving. I wish I could help others find their reason for coming home.

Prayer: Lord, you are the father of the world, and the provider of all good things. You have created all things, planned all things, developed all things, observe all things, and guide all things. There are so many people who don't know you as that father who is available to love them if only they would come seeking their daily needs. Please aid myself and your church in showing them that home. Amen.

Pursuing Stuff Ahead of God

Scripture: However, he must not acquire many horses for himself or send the people back to Egypt to acquire many horses, for the Lord has told you, ‘You are never to go back that way again.’ He must not acquire many wives for himself so that his heart won’t go astray. He must not acquire very large amounts of silver and gold for himself. Deuteronomy 17:16-17

Observation: The Lord says that someday Israel will have a king, but there are things the king must not do. All of these are things typical kings do - among other ways of making oneself 'rich' when they are in power - but God uses these three as an example. In reverse order, the things a king must not collect and hoard for themselves ...

-- Money, as this represents greed itself and eventually the willingness to commit sin, create hardships for others, and focus your life's work on comfort instead of God.

-- Many wives, as this creates a division of the heart and forces one to provide attentions to many other family matters and personal issues, minimizing attention to God.

-- Horses, the key to military might, which therefore is about seeking both power and protection from worldly or external sources instead of from God.

In other words, the three examples of what a king must not do are all examples of one lesson ... all people must keep God as the foremost focus of their lives.

Application: I spend most of my waking time working a job in order to secure the money my family needs. I spend significant thought time considering and worrying about home and life issues. In all cases, I pursue security through various ways of finding either authority or protection.

While I try to pray for these things, and thank God for them when they arrive, I must be careful of pursing all these things instead of - not through or by - the Lord. I know the Lord provides for me. This must remain foremost in my mind and my heart and my soul. I do not collect riches, power, or worldly activities on my own. The Lord grants me what he determines I will have, he protects me and my family as his will decides, and he allows me to enjoy his creation and created people. These are not mine to pursue, but mine to receive - or not - as God allows and provides.

Prayer: Father, Abba, you are my provider. Jehovah Jireh! All I have is by you and from you, and thus it is for you. May I seek a humble understanding of your great love that has provided me with a wonderful life, and loving family, and the provisions we need to live every day. Amen.

Different Types of Pharisees

Scripture: At that time some Pharisees came and told Him, “Go, get out of here! Herod wants to kill You!” Luke 13:31

Observation: It seems clear that, throughout Jesus' ministry, there are three distinct groups of Pharisees. There are those who oppose Jesus - they are against his teaching, jealous of his authority, and plotting his death. There are Pharisees who are intrigued by Jesus - they invite him for dinner and pose questions not as traps, but in an almost philosophical exercise of debate for intellectual purposes. And there is a small minority of Pharisees who border on belief ... they genuinely explore the possibility that Jesus is at least a prophet if not the Messiah.

So when Pharisees warn Jesus that Herod is out to kill him, we can only understand why if we can put that in context. Are they seeking to protect Jesus? Are they merely informing Jesus of a rumor? Or are they wishing to trick Jesus away from Jerusalem for some nefarious purpose? In context - given the very next thing that happens is an apparently not-too-confrontational dinner at a Pharisees' house - it is probably the second choice ... these are neutral Pharisees who seek to explore Jesus' unique teaching and are informing him of the rumor they have heard.

Application: How will I treat Jesus today in my life? Will I stand opposed to him by knowingly violating his teaching? Will I consider him as an intellectual study to see how his life applies to my life? Will I decide he is the Messiah and follow him?

In my mind, I clearly choose the latter. However, the choice about Jesus is a moment-by-moment, act-by-act decision. I am a different type of Pharisee hour by hour throughout the day. The greatest and most obvious battle in our hearts is to not be the type of person who opposes and rejects Jesus' teaching. However, being a "student" who seeks only an intellectual understanding is also a dangerous position, as it can appear to involve discipleship when it actually is just another Pharisee engaging in debate.

I do want to learn from Jesus as a disciple, and not as a Pharisee. This starts by ensuring every thought begins with one idea ... I believe Jesus is my Lord and Messiah. From that position, learning isn't about debate, but discovery. It isn't about exploring ideas, it's about hearing truth. And actions aren't based on ponding options, they are based on obedience.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I say again today, Jesus is my Lord and savior. I will obey and trust in him alone. Please forgive me of my disobedience, sin, and evil thoughts, as I too look to forgive others and deal kindly with all. Guide me today so that I may do you will alone. Amen.

Pain in Correcting Mockers

Scripture:
The one who corrects a mocker
will bring dishonor on himself;
the one who rebukes a wicked man will get hurt.
Don’t rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you;
rebuke a wise man, and he will love you.
Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still;
teach a righteous man, and he will learn more.
Proverbs 9:7-9

Observation: The teacher advises in how to share wisdom with others. Very bluntly, sharing wisdom with the mockers and evil doers - trying to correct those who adamantly reject wisdom - will only bring hardship and pain upon yourself. However, correcting and instructing wise people who seek even greater wisdom will yield fruit in their lives. Wise people embrace and cherish even more instruction, while ignorant people fight against wisdom itself along with anyone who attempts to provide wisdom.

Application: This is so practically relevant to my life today. As I attempt to guide people in improved ways of doing out jobs, I find two people ... those who a hungry to lessons, and those who resist any new idea. Many of those who resist dig in deep, and some of them fight and lash out and attack as if they are in conflict with me. These same people take actions that have no design to advance services or the community, but rather simply secure their authority and make them feel self-important.

Wisdom is clear in her teaching - attempting to bring wisdom to these wicked people will hurt me. If I correct them, they will hate me. If I persist in that correction, I will eventually be dishonored. This is timely guidance for my action today.

Prayer: Lord, you are wise and just and merciful. You are also loving and gentle and kind. May I have proper context today, focusing on that which is truly important, and working around issues that are not. I will seek to serve others following your path, and not a path through conflict. Amen.

Happiness in the Listening

Scripture:
And now, my sons, listen to me;
those who keep my ways are happy.
Listen to instruction and be wise;
don’t ignore it.
Anyone who listens to me is happy,
watching at my doors every day,
waiting by the posts of my doorway.
For the one who finds me finds life
and obtains favor from the Lord.
Proverbs 8:32-35

Observation: The voice of wisdom provides lessons, but it often provides this overarching wisdom ... listen and obey! Head knowledge of the truth and of right actions are one objective to be achieved, but listening to and following that knowledge is the true source of happiness. We can seek wisdom, but truly listening to that wisdom, learning the nature of the wisdom, and applying it to your life ... this is the road to happiness and favor from the Lord.

Application: I have learned much in the last few years about the will and nature of God. I have learned more about his laws, his methods, and his ways. I don't understand them all, but understanding is likely not the goal. The goal is to listen and obey. The true objective is to find happiness, provided by my father in heaven, by wisely applying his instructions to my life, thoughts, deeds, and work. It is this I seek daily when I want to walk with God ... wise instructions that will guide me in my actions.

Prayer: Lord, again today I ask, may I walk hand in hand with you this day. May I humbly listen to your wise instruction, and follow it through my words and actions. Amen.