Oral Argument

When lawyers present an oral argument before the Supreme Court, they don’t expect a decision from the Justices right away. The court has no time limit on how long it takes to render it’s opinion, other than the decisions must be made before the summer recess. The Justices’ decisions can take days, weeks or even months. I’d say that sounds remarkably similar to our oral arguments before God.

Living Water

In the late summer of 1915 my great-grandparents homesteaded in southeastern Colorado. They settled on land where the prairie grass was high and water flowed in the creeks. Close to a small cottonwood tree they dug a pit and hit a spring that produced two barrels of water a day. Their dreams of ranching however were shattered once they discovered it was an unusually wet year. The spring consistently produced two barrels of water a day…but not a drop more. Because there lacked a sustainable source of water for a ranch, the homestead was abandoned. The spiritual life needs more than a cupful, bucketful or even a barrelful of living water. Jesus offers “…Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:14b NIV)

Screeching Halt

My thought on the effects of the economic crisis as it relates to churches has been centered on the decline of charitable contributions. Until I read an article about church foreclosures. Its one thing for small community churches to tighten their belt, but it’s quite another thing to sustain sprawling religious campuses. When this crisis hit 18 months ago many churches were in the process of expansion and have huge mortgages. You’ve got to admit that the Lord does have interesting way of putting a cease and desist order on the building of towers and the storing of treasures.

Yielding

A few years back I watched the impeachment hearings held with the House Judiciary Committee and heard some of the following back-and-forth statements and questions: “Will the gentleman yield? No, I will not yield to the gentleman. I thank the gentleman for yielding.” As I listened to the proceedings I thought of the Spirit having a similar dialog within believers. When Jesus calls us He’s asking, “Will the gentleman yield?”

Ponzi Scheme

When I’ve studied Jesus’ warning about storing up our treasures on earth, I’ve always focused in on the phrase “…where moth and rust destroy”. Obviously I can’t take any wealth with me when I die, so who cares if it’s eventually destroyed by moth and rust. Most of us are working on storing our treasures in heaven, but with the Bernard Madoff fraud scandal this verse has taken on an expanded meaning. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.” (Matt 6:19 NIV) I don’t know about you, but I hadn’t given much thought to thieves making-off with earthly wealth before I die.

Fairytale

Once upon a time there was a small country church in Good Hope, Alabama. In seven short years the little church grew and grew and grew until it became a coveted mega-church. Their most recent sermon series is promoted on billboards and reads Great Sex: God’s Way. Jerry Lawson, pastor of Daystar Church, says the purpose of the sermons and the billboards is to get Christian parents talking to their kids about sex before they learn too much immorality from TV or playground buddies. Can’t you just see the Holy Spirit wondering how He’s going to work this theme into ‘Come, now is the time to worship…’

Subscribing

The size of our newspaper keeps shrinking and every time the bill comes I wonder if I really need to keep renewing my subscription. When yesterday’s storm dumped a few inches of snow I found myself digging all around the yard and driveway searching for a paper that, if found, may have very little to offer…other than the obituaries. In hindsight I think I did the same thing in my previous church. For years the Word of God just kept shrinking, while I continued to dig and search. I finally came to the conclusion that for me, they no longer offered enough of the Good News.

It's The Thought That Counts

Sometimes when we run up against a really difficult person who negatively affects our lives we’d like someone or something to just take them out of the equation. Not that we’d wish them ill, but scenarios can run through our head as to the easiest way for God to dispose of the agitator. Most of us are good at justifying our thoughts and even taking them captive, it’s making them obedient to Christ that’s the hard part. “…and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (II Cor 10:5b NIV)

Keep Watch

Arriving late to church one of our ladies sheepishly shook her head as she realized she’d forgotten to set her clock ahead an hour. Watching her slip into a chair triggered my thoughts about the reaction of those who will be late for the Second Coming. Unlike my tardy fellow parishioner, these folks won’t get past the closed door much less find an empty seat. Who knows, maybe Jesus forewarned us about Day Light Savings when He said, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” (Matt 25:13 NIV)

Shovel Ready

One of the key elements in qualifying to some of the stimulus money is to have projects that are ‘shovel ready’ – projects than can begin within 120 to 180 days. This means that all the work such as environmental impacts, feasibility studies and designs have been completed and you’re ready to hit the ground running with your roads and sewer projects. It sort of reminds me of preparing for the old time revivals many churches once held. We’d spend weeks working on our unsaved friends and relatives so we could have them shovel ready for salvation when the preacher came to town.

Mystery Worshippers

I just read an article which said the Wall Street Journal recently reported on churches employing mystery worshippers – a variation of the mystery shopper – who covertly attend church services and evaluate them (clean bathrooms, friendly folks, etc.). I’ll be honest and tell you that my initial reaction was, ‘You’ve got to be kidding!’ However, the writer of Hebrews did cause me a moment of pause, “Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” Heb 13:2 NIV

Dog Fight

We are now hearing what’s in the stimulus package and while it may be good news for some, it’s not for others. Because of the stipulations, the size of my community is either too large or too small to qualify for the coveted funding of shovel-ready projects. Granted, those who do get the funding will be taken off priority lists, giving some of the rest of us a chance to get on a list…but I anticipate it’s going to be a dog fight for any funding scraps we try to get. I can so identify with the Canaanite woman who knelt before Jesus asking for help. In parable form Jesus told her He was sent to the Jews, not to the Canaanites. She responded, “Yes, Lord, but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” Matt 15:27 NIV

Networking

In the church we’re really skilled at studying, worshiping, and fellowshipping – but we’re lacking when it comes to networking. As defined by Webster’s, networking is: the exchange of information…specifically the cultivation of productive relationships… The Bible has its own definition of networking: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” (Pro 27:17 NIV) I think many of today’s leaders today shy away from networking because of its revealing nature. Iron sharpening aluminum just doesn’t work.

Mourning

In the last few weeks two members in my congregation have had a family member pass away. One man lost his adult daughter and another lost his wife of over 60 years. I find it remarkable that even though both of these elderly men are in mourning, the next Sunday following each funeral these men were in church. Their grief did not keep them from joining us in worship…even though the chairs that once held their loved one now sat empty. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matt 5:4 NIV

Recognized

I recently attended an event where my colleagues and I were called forward to accept an award on behalf of our community. It was a surprise, but I think had we known about the presentation, all of us would have done prepared differently. Our thoughts would have been less scattered, our attire more professional and the one missing colleague would probably have made a point to attend. At the house of a Pharisee Jesus told a parable warning us about being presumptuous and taking the best seat at a wedding banquet (Luke 14:7-12). I can just imagine the guy who took the lowest seat and was then honored by being moved up to a seat of importance...he was probably thinking, ‘Man, I knew I should’ve worn one of my better tunics!”

Co-Workers

Whether it’s a committee, a board or a council, each member is nothing more than an individual until they come together as a group. Only then are they are empowered and have authority to make decisions, give direction and set goals. I think there is a similar situation for believers. “The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ…Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” (I Cor 12:12, 27 NIV) Individually we all have the Spirit living within us, however we need to be reminded that it’s only when we come together that we are transformed into the body of Christ.

Short Changed

As each of us work with our respective ministries we have a tendency to think everyone else has or should have the same vested interest. Normally during the church service there is a time and place for announcements. There are times when the announcements combine a history lesson and current activity update on a particular ministry, when all we really needed to hear was the date and time of the upcoming fundraiser. Over the years I’ve been in worship services where a 30 minute sermon had to be shortened by 15 minutes because the preceding meditations, promotions and updates cut into the preacher’s time. Though I enjoy getting caught up on our weekly activities, I cringe when they take time away from God’s Word being proclaimed.

Speaking Clearly

I recently had a conversation where I was given a scenario about a problem. I understood the scenario, but I couldn’t see a problem or an issue. When I left the conversation the other person was shrugging their shoulders with a frustrated look of, ‘She just doesn’t get it.’ I did get it…about 12 hours later. Rather than speaking plainly, this person used himself as an example of how he thought a situation needed to be addressed. In reality what he was doing was attempting to steer me toward what he thought I should be addressing. I can sympathize with the disciples when Jesus talked to them in parables…and I also share their sense of relief when they could say, “Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech.” John 16:29 NIV

Inadequate

I’m a member of Toastmasters International and one of the things they encourage us to do is take advantage of every opportunity that comes our way. On short-notice I was asked to moderate a legislative panel discussion and while I was saying, “Sure, I’d be happy to do that,” my mind was saying, ‘You don’t have a clue about what it is you’re agreeing to do…’ Whether it has to do with our salvation or an unexpected opportunity, I think it’s safe to say that most of us feel unprepared when God calls us. Paul puts it in perspective for us, “Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world…; God chose the weak things of the world… He chose the lowly things of this world…” I Cor 1:26-27. Oh, now I feel qualified…

Message Received

Whether it’s an email, a voice mail or dialog with your teenager – most of us want some sort of a response that the intended recipient actually got our message. Spiritually speaking, the Spirit within us knows whether or not we got the message, but I think that He too wants to hear us acknowledge that fact. After eating the forbidden fruit in the garden Adam and Eve tried to play a game of Hide-n-go-Seek. God knew exactly where they were (both physically and spiritually), but He asked the rhetorical question, “Where are you?”

Indefensible

The other day I went to a public forum to listen to a newly appointed Senator. The Senator made a few opening remarks, the crowd asked questions and in general the communication was informative and congenial. Later in the day the Senator made stops in a couple of neighboring communities and although I haven’t heard how he handled himself, it was reported that there were elements of disrespect and even hostility coming from those audiences. When we feel attacked the natural response is to defend our positions and ourselves. The chief priest said many things against Jesus and Pilate asked him, “Aren’t you going to answer? See how many things they are accusing you of.” More than a few of us could benefit by following Jesus’ example, “But Jesus still made no reply, and Pilate was amazed.” Mark 15: 4-5 NIV

Wearing the Armor

There’s a young adult man in my neighborhood who sometimes dresses up in costume. In his childlike creativity I’ve encountered him as a park ranger, a US Marine and an NFL football player…and he actually looks pretty convincing, even down to his physical mannerisms. Paul encourages us to do some dressing up of our own. Just think if we actually followed Paul’s instructions and put on the full armor of God – we might look pretty convincing too. (Eph 6:11)

Help

The opening season of the CBS reality show the Amazing Race had contestants going up and down a steep slippery Swiss hillside carrying huge blocks of cheese. The team’s conversation went something like this, “This is the hardest thing I’ve ever done…You can do it just keep moving. No, I can’t do it any more, it’s too hard. You’ll have to carry mine I’m just not strong enough…Don’t quit, we can do this.” It sort of sounds like the conversation we Christians have with the Lord. If I’m honest I have to confess that I don’t always want the Lord to help me carry my load…I rather have Him carry the whole thing.

Above the Storm

Years ago we were returning from home from Denver on a calm winter day. The sky was brilliant blue and not a cloud in sight. As we came out of the mountains the far reaching highway of South Park was overlaid with a blanket of white. For as far as you could see there was a thick fog settling on the valley floor. My mom slowed down going into the fog, but ten seconds into the white mass we discovered we were in a white-out ground blizzard. Around the windows of the passenger side the snow sand-blasted its way into the car. Although we couldn’t see anything out the windshield, if I looked straight down the passenger’s side of the car I could tell my mom where the yellow line was. Amazingly a semi-truck passed us and we were then able to follow him out of the storm. His secret to the navigating the blizzard was that the cab of his truck was right above the snow line. While we were blinded, he had clear vision. When I’m in a life blizzard I need to be reminded that from God’s perspective there is blue sky.

Googling

Some of the keys on my computer are shiny with wear, while others are dull because of lack of use…or no use at all. No doubt all the keys can all do wonderful things, but I have visions of opening Pandora’s Box and releasing a plague that will send my files into computer space. Or I might even become Alice in Computer-land and never find my way back to the desktop. In the same way I avoid exploring the power of my computer and the internet, I think many of us avoid exploring the power of God. I’ve never thought about Googling God…but He does have his own Search Engine. “…The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.” (1 Cor 2:10b NIV)

Thou Shalt Not...

A professional facilitator on assignment in New Mexico found the following ground rules posted in the senior citizen’s center. 1) No alcohol on premises 2) No fighting will be tolerated 3) No abusive language 4) No harassment tolerated 5) No weapons allowed on premises. In good natured humor, seasoned with a hint of disbelief, she questioned the director about what seniors found worth fighting over. “Oh… it happens. They fight over the ladies.” Now wouldn’t you think that as a senior your maturity would override the need for rules? It’s no wonder the ground rules found in Scripture don’t change according to our maturity level…some things never change.

Shipwrecked

Paul was sailing to Italy when he stepped forward to give the crew a warning about the dangers of the voyage. “But the centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.” (Acts 27:11) I probably would have come to the same conclusion because reason tells me that the pilot and owner of the ship had more sailing expertise than Paul…the resident prisoner, tentmaker and a Pharisee turned disciple. I think we sometimes make the same mistake in the church. If we look only to those in leadership, then we’re overlooking the spiritual insights and wisdom of those in the pew. There are more than a few people sitting in our pews who, after throwing the cargo overboard, are entitled to echo Paul’s words, “Men, you should have taken my advice…”

The King's Invitation

In my political life I get a variety of personal invitations and I try to attend as many events as I can so that I can connect with the community. A while back I received a generic invitation in the mail to attend an open house for a church that had relocated. The invitation appeared to be for the community at large and while I mentally wished them the best in their new digs, I didn’t think about attending. The parable of the Wedding Banquet then comes to mind (Matt 22). I’m not going to make excuses for those who paid no attention to the invitation…they made enough of those for themselves. However, I’ve got to wonder if any of them thought the invitation was generic rather than personal.

Diana

A member of our church family just passed away after what appeared to be a short illness of only one month. The reality is that 59 year-old Diana hadn’t focused on her health for a couple of years, “It’s my own fault for not going in for check-ups.” Although Diana had dismissed her physical health, she was spiritually healthy. After years of faithfully serving in the church, I suppose she might fall into the Dorcas category (Acts 9:36). I find the story of Dorcas interesting. She was dearly loved by those in her church community, died unexpectedly and then Peter prayed over her bringing her back to life. I always wondered if Dorcas would have preferred staying with the Lord rather than returning to a life of service and love. It seems to me that our friend Diana has earned a well deserved rest from her labor.

Code of Silence

There is a program being implemented in some schools called Safe2Tell. The program is an avenue for students and parents to give information to school faculty and law enforcement anonymously. It is reported that in crisis situations, 81% of the time (suicide, drugs, fights, threats to students) someone knew about it, but didn’t tell. The Safe2Tell staff knows that by breaking the code of silence they can save lives. They hope to get across to youth that it’s not a betrayal to inform on their friends…but failing to get help for their friend, is betrayal. I think we could use a Safe2Tell program in the church. Sin amongst believers can at times be blatant and yet we don’t get help for our friends. “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 NIV

You've Got the Power

Jesus remained silent during his interrogation until Pilate boasted that he had the power either to free or to crucify. Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above.” (John 19:11a NIV) Verse twelve continues, “From then on, Pilate tried to set Jesus free…” Well now, I guess Pilate didn’t have quite as much power as he thought he did. Going through today’s troubled times leaders, in both the world and the church, would do well to remember Who gives them their power and authority.

Potshot

Webster’s defines a potshot as: a shot taken from ambush or at a random or easy target. A critical remark made in a random or sporadic manner. Some of us have been on the receiving end of religious potshots. Of course we know Jesus says, ‘Turn the other cheek’, and to the Lord’s credit many of us are really good cheek turners. Nothing against the cheek turning, but I think we could sometimes avoid being hit by potshots if we weren’t such easy targets. I’ve found that the more faithful I am in Bible study, the less vulnerable I am…or maybe I just enjoy watching the return fire of Biblical ammunition hit its mark.

Smiley Face

It always lifts my spirit when Jesus is proclaimed outside of the church. Whether it’s a football player pointing heavenward after he’s made a touchdown or a news commentator interjecting a New Testament teaching, it brings an amen to my mind and a smile on lips when Jesus is mentioned. Come to think of it, I suppose Jesus is smiling too every time He has an opportunity to get out of the church building.

Standing Room Only

Many churches today are removing pews and replacing them with movable seating that can be re-arranged, stacked or stored. Certainly there is a convenience factor in chairs, but I have to tell you that I miss the physical and psychological comfort of pews. Stout and securely attached to the floor, pews offer a measure of support for both young and old alike. People can spread out or cozy-up, but I don’t think they can ever fill up a pew…there’s always room to squeeze in at least one more person. With chairs, when they’re full, they’re full. Really, when was the last time you invited someone to share your chair?

Economic Crisis

The other day I heard a man of faith, who as an investment advisor was being interviewed on Fox News. A question posed to him by a fellow believer asked his thoughts on church contributions in this time of economic crisis. In response he said his understanding from Scripture was that 10% was one’s tithe, but beyond the tithe a person was to give out of their abundance. Paraphrasing he said, ‘If there is no abundance or excess, you’re not expected to give above the tithe.’ For years ministers have petition the congregation for love offerings beyond their tithe…I’m thinking they may have to revise their script.

Sweetness

Times were difficult during the Great Depression and my grandma told me her family always had two pots of pinto beans on the stove, one that was cooking and the other that was ready to eat. Grandma’s brother Hugh would eat a plate of beans for dinner then he’d smash up some more beans and pour sorghum on them for dessert. There are some portions of Scripture which are so overused in sermons that they start resembling those pots of beans. Blessed is the preacher, teacher or fellow believer who can add a touch of sweetness to the familiar.

It All Depends...

Those who’ve been fighting for the right to life must be discouraged by Obama’s reversal of the Bush policies on stem cell research and abortion-funds. Even though this seems to be a setback, we need to remember that their labor of love has had victories. In situations like this, rather than wringing our hands in despair, we can find comfort in Paul’s thoughts, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Ro 12:18 NIV) The phrase I find most meaningful is, ‘as far as it depends on you’. When something depends on me and I have done all that I can do, there is a sense of release and relief…and I can live in peace.

Saving Face

Former pastor Ted Haggard’s sexual escapades are once again front page news. If I’m reading the story correctly, the new allegations were known to church leaders in 2006 and a legal settlement was reached with Haggard’s ‘friend’ in 2007. Last Sunday the current pastor of New Life Church Brady Boyd told his congregation, “I’m sorry that this wound has been reopened for many of you.” Excuse me. This would not be a ‘new’ allegation or a reopening of wounds if the church leaders had made full disclosure from the very beginning. Somewhere along the line these leaders must have determined that the congregation was too fragile to hear the whole truth. In the process of trying to save face and hide sin, they have certainly underestimated the Spirit’s ability to clean, heal and restore.

Lengthy Prayers

During the festivities of the inauguration many public prayers were offered up for President Obama and for the country. Some of these speakers brought to mind a warning from Jesus, “Watch out for the teachers of the law… for a show [they] make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely.” (Mark 12:38-40b NIV) Now I really did try to be objective, but when someone is praying aloud and the crowd starts applauding rather than saying ‘amen’, you’ve just got question whether the intended audience is God or man.

Rolled Away

After the crucifixion the two Marys and Salome bought spices to anoint Jesus’ body. I find it so strange that on their way to the tomb they were asking one another, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” You’d think if they planned ahead enough to purchase the spices, they’d also have thought to ask a few strong disciples to meet them at the tomb. This is probably a good faith lesson for those of us who want to know that the door is going to be open before we start walking. Mark 16:3

A Time to Play

I was looking forward to babysitting my three year-old granddaughter, but when she came to the house she wasn’t feeling well because of a cold. So for two hours Lydia sat around uninterested and unresponsive to any of my suggestions, other than watching cartoons. When her mom came to pick her up I hugged her good-bye and told her the next time she came over she would feel better and we could play. The tears started flowing and puckering up she said, “Oh no Momma. I don’t want to go…I forgot to play!” There are some of us who at times are overly serious about Christianity. When I die I’ll probably find myself standing before the Lord saying, ‘Oh no, I forgot to play!’

Mixed Blessings

Last weekend I attended a 25th wedding anniversary where the large group of attendees were all believers. The honoree stated, “…all my friends are Christians. I don’t have any friends who aren’t believers.” After that celebration I went down the street and attended my uncle’s 90th birthday party where we visited in and around a live band playing honky tonk music. In church speak you could call it a blended celebration. There were believers, nominal believers and those with no belief at all. There’s a certain comfort in being surrounded by those of like precious faith, but add a little secular to the mix and you have some stimulating witnessing opportunities. I can see why Jesus accepted invitations to all kinds of fellowship configurations.

Inauguration Day

“Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God…For he is God’s servant to do you good... He is God’s servant…Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.” Romans 13:1, 4-5 NIV

Sweet Deal

I recently had a role in offering an organization a deal they just couldn’t refuse. The problem is it’s such a good deal that they can’t refuse it. In a sense they were safe until a good offer was on the table. Now they’re scrambling to come up with a logical and politically acceptable reason to turn down the offer. God offered mankind a deal in Jesus Christ that we just couldn’t refuse…yet every day people come up with logical and politically acceptable reasons for turning Him down.

Parts is Parts

I just read a thought provoking illustration: “One’s watch works only when all the parts designed in it are left inside the watch. We have no problem using Ford parts in a Ford and Chevrolet parts in a Chevy….” I think today’s church is often guilty of tinkering with the parts. We ignore Scripture that makes us uncomfortable, we tolerate teachings from other religions and we try to make the Word of God politically correct….to name a few. Just like a watch, without all the parts it’s no wonder we can’t always keep time.

Bliss

Sometimes what the Lord says cuts straight to the heart, “When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus’ parables, they knew he was talking about them.” (Matt 21:45) And then other times we just don’t know what to do with what we hear, “Lord, are you telling this parable to us, or to everyone?” (Luke 12:41) Conviction is painful…and ignorance is bliss.

Unclean

Even though people are divided by religious beliefs they can be unified by life’s circumstances. When ten lepers cried out to Jesus to have pity on them, he told them to go and show themselves to the priest. One of the ten was doubly unclean, because not only did he have leprosy, he was also a Samaritan. You’ve got to love it that this guy didn’t let his nationality keep him from the opportunity to be healed. All ten lepers were cleansed while on their way to see the priest, but it was only the Samaritan who returned to thank Jesus. Sending the Samaritan on his way Jesus said, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” It’s a good thing this Samaritan didn’t have to catch up with the other nine. I doubt if any ‘self-respecting’ priest would have come near him with or without the leprosy. (Luke 17:11-19)

Sorry

It seems to me that asking forgiveness, when practiced, is mainly done amongst fellow believers. When we sin against unbelievers or strangers, our tendency is simply to just apologize. In Scripture we don’t hear Jesus saying, ‘And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, apologize to him, so that your Father in heaven may accept your apology for your sins.’ Or, ‘This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you apologize to your brother from your heart.’ Other than God, when was the last time you asked someone to forgive you?

Please God

As believers it’s not unusual for us to hear one another petition God for help. However, a couple of times I’ve witnessed situations where persons with no religious persuasion have cried out, “God help me. God save me. Please God, Oh God…, Oh God…” It appeared that their call to God was for relief from pain and/or duress, rather than as a matter of faith. The writer of Hebrews says, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” (Heb 11:6 NIV)

Revealed

It’s interesting to see what God reveals, to whom He reveals it and when He chooses to reveal it. When I read where Peter publically declared that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God I wanted to say ‘Well duh Peter…What took you so long.’ Jesus however replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven.” (Matt 16:17 NIV) When the time was right, it was the Father who revealed Christ to the disciples. Maybe that is what’s wrong with some of our evangelistic methods…we keep trying to pry open the eyes of the blind.

Come See...

For many of us another person’s recommendation is a huge selling point. If someone tells us they’ve read a good book, eaten at a fabulous restaurant, or have seen a great movie, we may consider their endorsement as good enough for us to give it a try. Occasionally such a stamp of approval works with Christianity. The Samaritan woman at the well gave Jesus a five star rating by simply saying, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” I don’t know about you, but I can’t even get some of my immediate family members to give the Lord an audience, much less a whole community. (John 4:29)

Dark Horse

It’s interesting watching those who are jockeying for political appointments. The media gives us a list of favorite front runners and then from out of nowhere a dark horse crosses the finish line. You’ve got to love those surprise endings…unless of course you are the one left in the dust. Often those who are rejected want to blame someone or something for their defeat. I’ve noticed it’s a little hard for believers to play the blame game when they know that it’s God who, “…sets up kings and deposes them.” Daniel 2:21

Willing and Weak

My Grandma had a servant’s heart and was always volunteering for things…even beyond the point where she could meet the obligation. She would sign up to make cookies for VBS, but then she couldn’t drive to the store to get the ingredients, nor could she make the delivery once they were baked. Even in her 80’s Grandma once told a friend that she was going to make him a country western shirt. The project however fell to her daughter Carol, who wound up buying the material, cutting out the pattern, sewing it up, putting on the snaps…and even delivering the shirt. I don’t think Grandma ever considered that, “…The spirit is willing, but the body is weak,” might somehow apply to her. (Matt 26:41b NIV)

Recall

There are a lot of things I still need to understand about computers, but one thing on my to-do list is to learn how to use a recall function for an email message. I know there is such a thing because the other day I started to open an email and it disappeared right before my eyes leaving a notice in its place, “This email has been recalled.” What a great feature. Of course the key is to recall the message before the receiving party has a chance to open it. There are times that I’d like to have a recall button for something I’ve said. But alas, when I can’t get those words back, the next best thing is to use the Scripture’s ‘please forgive me’ button.

Just Passing By

Sometimes we believers get a little cocky because our salvation is secure and we know for a fact that Jesus will never leave us or forsake us. But picture this; the disciples are in a boat on the lake and straining at the ores because the wind is against them. Jesus, walking on the lake, “…was about to pass by them…” It appears that Jesus might not have stopped if the disciples hadn’t cried out to Him. I wonder how many times I’ve been in dire straights and, because I failed to call out to Him, Jesus just kept on walking. (Mark 6:48)

In the Days of 2009

In the days of Noah …people were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage. In the days of Lot …people were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. In the days of Believers…“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know what day your Lord will come.” Matt 24:42 NIV

Mothers and Daughters

A few years ago my daughter gave me a coffee mug for my birthday. The mug depicted a caricature of a woman devoid of facial expression with the caption, “IT’S OFFICIAL…I’ve become my mother.” I wasn’t laughing. I’ve worked hard trying not to be like my mother. It’s not that my mom isn’t a good person, she just has a few personality traits that I don’t want to emulate. I have to admit that I’ve never used the mug…probably because it reminds that in some ways I am in fact like my mother. It wasn’t until recently that I learned the sentiment on the cup was meant as a compliment. Leslie was implying she has become like me. In the spiritual realm we too take on the characteristics of our parent. Actually, there is no greater compliment than to say, It’s Official…I’ve become like Him.

Really in Need

This time of year many communities come together and share with those who are needy. However I think it’s sometimes difficult to identify those who are really in need. Paul says, “The widow who is really in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help.” (1 Tim 5:5 NIV) I’ve known folks who put their hope in relatives, in the government and in friends, but I don’t think I’ve ever met someone who prays night and day asking God for help. I’m sure it’s not PC to ask someone about their prayer life, but it could be a nice litmus test to identify those who are really in need.

Something to Say

I sometimes struggle with writing a daily blog and have to remind myself, as they say in baseball, ‘you can’t hit a home run every time’. There are days however when my mind goes blank and I feel there is nothing to write about. I chide myself, ‘What…you mean you can’t see God anywhere today? God is Omni-Everything and you don’t have anything to say about Him?’ The psalmist never seems at a loss for words. No doubt the sight of my blank page is enough to make him hyperventilate.

You Better Not Pout...

I wanted to get our three year-old granddaughter a pair of boots for Christmas, but getting the right size and also having it be a surprise was impossible. The first pair I purchased was too large and when Lydia was told she couldn’t keep them, she pouted. The second pair fit, but once again she couldn’t keep them because I needed to put them under the tree for her Christmas present. More distraught than ever she added tears to her pouting. Finally on Christmas Eve Lydia opened her gift and pulling the boots from the package said, “Look…I’ve got my boots. They’re mine. I’ve got my new boots.” Even on an adult level I can relate to Lydia’s disappointment and her joy. I’ve known God to give me a glimpse of a perfect gift, only to have Him deny me the gift because it’s not the right time, the right size...or He has something better in mind. It’s hard not to pout…

Be Still

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46:10 NIV) MERRY CHRISTMAS

Sing-a-Long

Last week our choir sang ‘Lion of Judah’ for special music. I don’t recall ever hearing the song before, but it is beautiful. Apparently the words and melody settled comfortably in my mind because when I woke up at 2:00 am this morning I was singing with the choir and could not get the song out of my mind. I can just imagine how maddening the Christmas season is for Satan. Songs of praise ringing out from every corner of the world may just be stuck in his head. Do you suppose he and his minions are loosing sleep by being reminded of their failure to kill the Holy One of God?

I know What You Need

I helped my grandkids compile their Christmas gift list for family members before we went shopping at the Dollar Store. On the first outing I took three year-old Lydia and it didn’t take her long to get into the groove of being in total control. While she picked out taffy, hot sauce, rock salt and a jump rope, I put a post-it note on each item naming the intended recipient. When a rack of pet pooper-scoopers caught Lydia’s eye, she was insistent that Mama needed one for cleaning. I explained that these were for cleaning up after pets and that she did not have one. She stated, “I have a puppy (stuffed) and David has a kitty (also stuffed).” Undeterred she continued, “…and, I think Daddy needs one too.” In compromise I finally convinced her that if she purchased only one, maybe Mama and Daddy could share. Haven’t we all, at some time or another, received a gift we know we don’t need? Someone thinks they know how to help us utilize that gift, so they assign us to a ministry or volunteer us for a project. Our reaction can be a real test of believer maturity.

Swayed

When I was employed as a bailiff I enjoyed listening to lawyer’s arguments. It was a challenge to weigh the evidence to see how my internal verdict compared to that of the jury. Some attorneys were more polished than others in their delivery, cross examinations and performance in the courtroom. Likewise, some witnesses had better credentials or were more believable than others. I think we encounter similar circumstances as believers. It’s our responsibility to be alert and keep the Word from getting lost in the presentation and delivery of the sermon.

Changes

We usually take the phrase ‘you haven’t changed one bit’ as a compliment. Perhaps we have some outward characteristics which stay consistent, but generally speaking if we haven’t changed over the years, we’ve got a serious problem. Really, can you imagine being the same person you were 10, 20 or 30 years ago. Or worse yet, being the same person you were when you first became a believer. Just as we enjoy watching young people grow to adulthood, we also take pleasure watching one another grow spiritually. I dare say we’re all more comfortable being the watcher than being the watched.

Strength for Service

I once had a minister who wrote of the church, “Our resources, specifically human resources, are limited. By limited, I don’t mean that there are so few attending, rather there are so few people available to serve.” Taken literally, I think his comments paint a picture of an elderly congregation whose strength for service was limited. I have to laugh because at the time of his critique we had a thriving congregation averaging over 600 in weekly attendance. The reality was that there were few people available to serve in the manner that he wanted them to serve. Obviously not every believer has a servant spirit, but “…If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 4:11b NIV

Friends

I know a lady who I count as a friend, in spite of fact that she thinks I’m going to hell. Now she has never come right out and said I’m going to hell, but she has hinted her doubts about my salvation. One time I spoke of the collective ‘we’ being secure in our knowledge of our salvation and unable to look me in the eye she stammered, “Well…, well… I don’t know. I just couldn’t say.” Bless her heart, she just couldn’t state with any certainty that those outside her denomination have a place in heaven. It’s no wonder Jesus said, “In my Father’s house are many rooms…” He’s probably going to have to send some of us to our rooms until we learn how to play together. (John 14:2a NIV)

Extracurricular

I once had a minister who sprinkled his messages with data and survey stats. He purported himself to be a visionary who was up to speed on issues relevant to today’s culture. Doubting some of his statistics, I tracked down the source material and learned that the data he presented under the umbrella of ‘Christian’ was not mainstream Christianity, but rather taken from a collection of all the world’s religions. Now, I don’t believe he deliberately set out to mislead his audience, but I do think he failed to check the accuracy of his facts because he needed them to support his current vision. I’m envious of the Bereans. When they heard Paul preach all they had to do was examine, “…the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” Acts 17:11b NIV

Eye to Eye

After I caught up on the family news with my spunky Great Aunt, we then talked a little politics. Jesting she said, “I have so much [political] wisdom that people could benefit from, but when you’re already seeing eye to eye with those around you, what’s the point of discussion if everyone’s in agreement.” I know what she means. Believers often find themselves in much the same dilemma when they’re with one another. Salvation is just not one of the topics of discussion when everyone’s in one accord.

Censored

I don’t understand the criteria used by the media for censoring. In one photo or video clip a face might be blurred-out while body parts are exposed, and then in another clip it’s just the opposite, the sensual parts are blackened-out and the face is exposed. I suppose it depends on who the media is trying to protect - the person in the photograph, the viewing public or themselves. Amazingly believers sometimes take it upon themselves to blur the Word of God. The writer John penned a warning to deal with any would-be censors of Revelation. “And if anyone takes words away from this book of prophecy, God will take away from him his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book.” (Rev 22:19 NIV)

I Think...

Recently my husband told our three year-old granddaughter, “I think you need to given me a hug.” Quietly and thoughtfully Lydia said, “No, I don’t think we need to do that.” Obviously Bill’s mistake was in giving her an option to think about it. Have you ever noticed that there is nowhere in Scripture (to my recollection) where God asks us what we think? Occasionally Jesus asked the disciples what they were thinking, not because He wanted their opinion, but to expose the thoughts running around in their heads. I’m wondering how our conversation would change if we were to replace the phrase ‘I think’ with ‘God thinks…’

He's Already Left the Building

I hate it when I’ve finished a conversation and walk out of the room, only to hear the other person start talking again. I then have to turn around, go back and ask them to repeat what they said. It’s irritating. Part of me is beginning to say, ‘Just keep on walking’, while another part suggests, ‘That would be rude’. I’ve tried to figure out what’s wrong. Do I have so many things on my mind that I’m moving too fast to get on to the next item, or is the other person just unaware that I’ve left the room? On a Spiritual level, I suppose it’s possible to do the same thing to the Spirit. With all the busyness of life going on, I may very well be leaving the building before He’s done talking to me.

Anticipation

In the city Holiday Parade of Lights last weekend our church had its début float. One of our members, who just turned 91, was determined to watch the parade and see our entry. Settling in to watch the festivities Sylvia misjudged the curb on the street and fell, breaking her hip. Family members helped seat her into her walker, but she wouldn’t let them call the ambulance. Sylvia had come to see the parade and she was going to see it, besides, “…if I don’t move, it doesn’t hurt.” An hour and forty-five minutes later the parade was over and Sylvia was ready to call the EMT’s. With such determination I’m reminded of both Simeon and Anna who, despite their age, waited and served in the temple at Jerusalem in anticipation of “the Lord’s Christ”. (Luke 2:25-40)

Just the Right Size

Our newly forming church has been meeting for almost seven months and the selection of elders and deacons should be completed in the next couple of weeks. Even though we’ve all been praying about the need for a building, it’s startling to see God answering prayers without our help. Yesterday we learned that one person has gifted the church with almost three acres of land and another family has stepped forward to be our ‘banker’…oh yes, and that family just happens to have an architect in the family who will draw up the building plans. After the announcement I and a few others wondered aloud if three acres would be enough. How absurd…if we needed more acreage the Lord would have provided us with a larger parcel of land. Obviously, I’ve since repented and asked for forgiveness.

Fading Glory

With all the moisture in the air we are seeing some terrific sunrises and sunsets. Clouds of orange and mauve ripple like waves across an ocean of blue. Unlike fall leaves changing color, the moving sun allows only moments to appreciate the brilliance of the clouds before they abruptly turn grey. I think I can understand why Moses put a veil over his face (2 Cor 3:13; Ex 34:34) both for the people...and possibly for himself. It’s a real let-down to watch God’s radiance go so quickly from glorious to ordinary.

Ascending and Descending

Over the Thanksgiving holidays our local hot air balloonists were offering free rides to veterans, but the weather was not cooperating. For three mornings in a row the pilots and crew stood around visiting and drinking coffee while trying to decide whether or not they could fly. Rather than stick a wet finger in the air to see which way the wind was blowing, one morning they sent up a PIBAL, a small black pilot balloon. All eyes were on the PIBAL and the higher it climbed, the further everyone’s heads tilted backwards. It reminded me of Jesus being taken up into heaven right before the eyes of the disciples. They looked intently as He was going until a cloud his Him from their sight. Two men dressed in white suddenly appeared. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:11 NIV)

Pucker

When my husband wants to get everyone’s attention at a large gathering he produces a shrill whistle by positioning his tongue against the back of his teeth and tightening his lips. Hearing that same whistle coming from the garage I charged through the door to discover Bill standing on a half twisted ladder. With one hand he held tight to an overhanging brace and with the other he held a long handled paint roller. And there, teetering precariously on the top of the ladder was a tray full of paint. I have to tell you it was funny. Paul describes the church as being one body, but having many different parts. “The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I don’t need you!’ And the head cannot say to the feet, ‘I don’t need you!’” (1Cor 12:21 NIV) In Bill’s case, neither can the hand or the foot say to the part that whistles, ‘I don’t need you!’

Co-Workers

Laura, a Sunday School teacher for mentally challenged adults was telling me about her class. “We screen what we say and how we say it, but the folks in my class just blurt out whatever is on their mind. They say exactly what they’re thinking.” She went on to tell me about Emily, a 52 year-old member of the class. One Sunday Emily prayed, “Lord, work with me on this! Let’s work together and get this done!” Normally I think about working for the Lord, or Him working through me. I appreciate Emily’s insight. It never occurred to me to work shoulder to shoulder with Him.

People of Faith

At some time or another I think we’ve all struggled in interacting with folks from different religious backgrounds with whom we are polarized opposites. My fear is, if a group falls in the cult category, does having fellowship with them encourage them to think I’m accepting of their beliefs? Last week I participated in a community Thanksgiving service where those in the program came from all different denominations. We had everything in common as far as Scripture reading, songs, prayers and the messages. It’s undeniable that everyone at the service was a person of faith…even if that faith is not in Jesus Christ as Savior.

Traps

A feral cat recently had a litter of kittens under our shed. When I called the animal shelter they said that once the kittens were old enough I could take them to the shelter, but that I’d have to trap them myself. Although I don’t want to trap them, I also don’t want to worry about their survival this winter, or heaven forbid that they start multiplying. My friend Harold loaned me a cat trap and I was all set to become a fearless white hunter when I had a horrible thought, what if I trapped a pole cat instead of a kitty cat. One of Satan’s ploys is setting traps for the faithful and I dare say that at one time or another we’ve all fallen into one. Maybe when we find ourselves caught in one of Satan’s traps we should come out fighting with the determination and the aim of a pole cat.

Thanksgiving

Jesus broke the bread, took the cup…and gave thanks.

Stubborn Stains

A number of years ago I was shaking my liquid make-up with my finger over the bottle opening when it slipped out of my hand and splattered on the carpet. I can’t count the number of times I’ve tried to get the stain out, only to give up in defeat and tell myself I’ll just have to live with it. Last week I tried a new carpet cleaner. After the application there was a slight improvement, but overall the make-up still refused to give up its hold on the fibers. It sort of reminds me of some of the stubborn sins in our lives. Even when we feel defeated and decide that we’ll just have to live with the stain, Scripture comes along with a new formula for us to try.

Reasonings

The only time in my life when I’ve thrown caution to the wind with dieting was when I was pregnant. I decided that I had a legitimate and justifiable nine-month excuse to indulge. After all, I was eating for two, no amount of calorie counting was gong to bring back my waistline and everyone expected me to gain weight. We see a similar reasoning in the parable of the Great Banquet “…I have just bought a field …I just bought five yolk of oxen …I just got married.” (Luke 14:15-20) Sometimes friends and family accept our lame excuses, but we’re foolish if we think the Lord is going to buy it.

Vetting Candidates

Having just gone through the presidential election most of us have become more educated on the process of vetting a candidate. As believers, Scripture tells us that we too must vet men for the position of elder and deacon. Even though Timothy and Titus give us some specific qualifications, some of those qualifications are a matter of interpretation. I think the stickiest qualification is that a candidate must be the husband of only one wife. For some people, that stipulation disqualifies a man who has been divorced and remarried. However, others might accept a man who has remarried because he was married to only one woman at a time. I wish Paul had been more definitive, but he wasn’t. It appears to me that the only way a congregation can properly vet an elder or deacon candidate is for him to inform the membership if he has ever been divorced and remarried. It will then be up to individuals to accept or reject the candidate.

Impressions

My 5 year-old grandson was one of only three students in his kindergarten class to be able to write his name in cursive. Pulling his practice sheet from his backpack David said, “You are going to be soooo impressed!” Well, yes I was…and I know exactly how David feels. Whenever I walk away from a temptation, stop a sin in progress or turn the other cheek I have the same desire to tell God, ‘You are going to be soooo impressed!’

Mum's the Word

More and more I’m finding myself at meetings where I’m told things that must remain confidential, or that only half of the story can be told. There’s on going investigations, code names for prospective companies or contracts that are being negotiated. I can’t make casual conversation about situations without first stopping to think, ‘Did that conversation take place behind closed doors, or am I at liberty to discuss it openly?’ I laughingly tell people that I probably know just enough information to be dangerous. I do find that I have a whole new appreciation for those who ask for confidentiality and for those who can keep a confidence. On numerous occasions Jesus said, “See that you don’t tell anyone… See that no one knows about this. [Jesus]…warned his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.” Certainly Jesus’ ministry was affected by those who kept a confidence…and by those who did not.

Comb-Over

Awhile back I attend a meeting and was seated behind a man who tried to cover his bald head by wearing his hair in a comb-over. Now this wasn’t your normal comb-over. Rather than combing long hair from one side of the head to the other, this comb-over started from the nape of the neck and swept up and over to his forehead. His sparse hair must have been over seven inches long and I couldn’t help but think what the coiffure would like in the wind or the rain. I felt sorry for the man, not because he was bald, but because he is like so many of us. Often our effort to comb-over imperfections just draws more attention to the problem…and to our vanity.

Lame Duck

I can just imagine the mental picture that would form in the mind of a six year-old if you were to ask him to describe a lame duck. In politics we understand the President Bush is a lame duck because his presidency will soon end. Webster’s has another definition: one that is weak or that falls behind in ability or achievement. I’ve seen lame ducks in the church…not only that, I’ve been one. There is no doubt that if we neglect the study of the Word, even for a short time, we become weaker and fall behind in our Christian maturity.

Baal Worship

Picture this: Your pastor preaches the Sunday morning sermon while sitting on a bed and his challenge to the congregation is for married couples to have sex once a day, beginning today, for seven straight days in a row. Really, I can’t make this stuff up. The Dallas Morning News (Nov 16th) reported that Rev. Ed Young of Grapevine Fellowship Church, a Baptist church of 20,000 members, just preached such a sermon. Mr. Young thinks the ‘whoopee’ will take folks minds off all the problems in America. According to the article, a church in Florida also issued a 30-day sex challenge to its congregation earlier this year. Sort of reminds you of the worship of Baal, doesn’t it?

Kibitzing on the Side

Lately I’ve been attending a lot of meetings where, rather than being able to listen to what is taking place, I’m either hearing others carrying on their own conversations, or else someone is trying to engage me in a sidebar. It’s frustrating to hear the answer to a question when you haven’t even heard the question. As Jesus taught His disciples I think these guys were doing a lot of kibitzing on the side also. “Some of his disciples said to one another, “What does he mean by saying, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me,’ and ‘Because I am going to the Father’?” They kept asking, “What does he mean by ‘a little while’? We don’t understand what he is saying.” (John 16:17-18 NIV) Does anyone else find it strange that they’re looking to each other for the answers, rather than Jesus?

Salt of the Earth

I’ve heard it’s disrespectful to the hostess to salt your food before you’ve even tasted it. Most of those in my family are salt-a-holics and unless the cook warns us that a particular dish is salty, we salt before we eat. One time while at my mother-in-law’s for dinner we kept passing the salt shaker back and forth and still the food was blah. Almost apologetically I commented that I didn’t think I’ve ever used so much salt. “Oh,” she said, “I’m using a salt-substitute now.” I know that Jesus tells us we are the salt of the earth (Matt 5:13), but I think I may have encountered a few salt-substitutes in the church shaker.

White Knuckling It

Regardless of the travel warnings, the first winter storm of the year always catches motorists off guard. On a trip to Denver last week vehicles were stuck in snow banks, overturned in ditches, and jack-knifed in the middle of the road. In real-time one small car going in the opposite direction lost traction and fishtailed into my lane of traffic. The Fed-Ex delivery truck in front of me clipped his rear quarter-panel sending him through the air and over an embankment. As cars were stopping to help, the situation had all the makings of an impromptu demolition derby, so I just dodged the debris and continued on my way. Going over Monarch Pass the visibility was so bad that even though I was snuggled up to the bumper of a semi-truck, there were times I couldn’t see him or his hazard lights. Once out of the storm I loosened my grip on the steering wheel and got the circulation back into my fingers. There’s no need to tell you that I talked at length with God…

Veteran’s Day Blasé

I’ve served in both the US Navy and the Army National Guard. For those of us who have served in the military, Veteran’s Day is an important day of remembrance. However some people, who’ve not been personally touched by war or by service, are often blasé about honoring those who keep our nation free. I think the same can be said of some believers. Often those who’ve suffered for the faith or have been lifted from the depths of sin are to me, more deeply affected by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Whether it’s Veteran’s Day or the Communion Table, both give us an opportunity of remembrance.

New Comment

Kris posted a comment on the blog ‘Class Act’ and I had to go all the way back to February 8, 2008 to see what ‘Class Act’ was about. Kris, welcome to the conversation. Gail

Free at Last

I’ve mentioned before that over the years all my volunteer hours were given to the church, or occasionally to some other faith based endeavor. I look back with a certain amount of satisfaction knowing I’ve contributed to the Kingdom and the strengthening of the church. However, in recent months I’ve been serving in the world of politics and I’m no longer surrounded by fellow believers. While I miss the comfort and security of working with those of like precious faith, I think the Holy Spirit within me has a different perspective. All these years, rather than taking Spirit out into the world, I’ve kept Him confined to serving in the church. I can just imagine Him saying, “Free at last, Free at last…”

Happy Martyr

At time or another we’ve all probably played the role of a martyr…even if no where else but in our own mind. As believers we may think we’ve suffered persecution, but few of us can claim to have suffered as did Paul. I find it fascinating and also hard to grasp, that Paul’s suffering actually brought him joy, delight and rejoicing. I could understand it if Paul rejoiced as he reflected on what he’d gone through, but he was actually rejoicing during his suffering. Now I know that I too will rejoice in suffering for the cause of Christ…you just might not see it until I get to heaven.

Capacity

A couple weeks ago at church I was lamenting about our lack of space and said I hated to invite people because there might not be any place for them to sit. A fellow member gently chided, “Oh no, don’t let that hold you back. Some of the rest of us will just stand up if we need to.” Of course he was correct. However, as one who helps get people seated, I’ve seen people leave, or feel they should leave, just because they can’t easily find a seat. Every Sunday I find myself breathing a sigh of relief once everyone is seated. What is so interesting about this situation is that when some of the regulars are absent, there are visitors taking their place, so the facility is almost always maxed out. It sort of reminds me of the widow of Zarephath who, having run out of flour and oil and was preparing to starve to death. Through the prophet Elijah God said, “…The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD gives rain on the land.” (1 Kings 17:14 NIV) I’m assuming we will not run out of seating and that God will provide us a larger facility…all before the Fire Marshall declares we’ve reached capacity.

Treadmill

A friend came up to me while I was on the treadmill last week and while focusing on her, my left foot jumped the track and I biffed it. Note to self: Don’t try to hang on to the side bars when you can’t get your feet under you. At the encouragement of others, the next time I got on the treadmill I clipped the emergency stop button to my shirt. Things were going well until my hand accidently hit the cord and the machine stopped cold in mid-stride. Once again I grabbed the side bars. Thankfully, rather than doing a face plant, I was able to gain my footing. You know, I sometimes feel like I’m on a spiritual treadmill…and the angels are having a knee-slapping good time watching my re-runs on Heaven’s Funniest Home Videos.

Election Day

Many of us took advantage of Colorado’s early voting and mail-in ballots. However, there are pitfalls associated with early voting. A few days ago I heard of a woman who lamented, “I think I voted for the wrong man.” Reflecting on the choice between Barabbas and Jesus, some of those standing at the foot of the cross came to that same realization.

Uneducated By Choice

In describing American demographics one TV commentator observed that there are some folks who are ‘uneducated by choice’. I shrug my shoulders in agreement…it is their choice. However, when I see the same thing happening in the church I squirm. It’s hard for me to understand those who chose to be Biblically uneducated. Apparently some people are just satisfied with whatever level of Christian maturity they can get through osmosis. I suppose that rather than trying to understand them, maybe here too I should be shrugging my shoulders and saying, ‘It’s their choice’.