Under the Circumstances

During our announcement time yesterday the congregation learned that one of our members had a severe stroke while attending a Christian Convention. Our sister is in the ICU in Albuquerque, New Mexico getting the best medical treatment available. The announcer encouraged us by saying, “She is in good care for the situation she is in.” It struck me that regardless of the circumstances we find ourselves in, believers can always say we’re in good care for the situation we’re in.

Stars in Our Crown

Yesterday I was one of the speakers at an appreciation event for community volunteers. My presentation was at the beginning of the program so I thought seriously about leaving early, rather than staying for the entire event. I decided however, that it was more important that I remain, so I found myself applauding through the silent auction, the recognitions and the service awards. I am so glad I stayed. At the end of the program a special surprise award was given to my organization and I was there to accept the award on their behalf. I think many believers are so intent on just getting to heaven that they sometimes forget that there will be a ceremony. ^“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Tim 4:8 NIV)

Silence is Golden

Sunday morning a man at church came up to me during the greeting time and jokingly said that I looked uptight, that I needed to loosen up a bit and to not look so grumpy. And I’m supposed to respond how? Although this was not what I’d envisioned as a start-up to the worship service, I decided for the moment it wasn’t worth responding to or taxing my brain trying to figure out his motivation. A few days have passed and I’ve contemplated how my lack of response measures up to the WORD. ^”For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men.” (1 Peter 2:15 NIV)

Senior Artist

An elderly man in our community thought a certain sidewalk curb was a hazard to drivers. Rather than waiting for the city work crews to respond to his concerns he took matters into his own hands and spray painted white XX’s and arrows on the curb. At first blush there is some humor in seeing an older gent taking matters into his own hands. However on another level, his actions are purely and simply a defacing of public property…graffiti. Had this tagging been done by a teenager we’d have felt indignation, condemnation and at the very least expected him to do community service and remove his handiwork. In the church we too have a tendency to think that our age should somehow give us a pass if we don’t want to follow established standards. ^“You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.” (Ro 2:1 NIV)

Shush

Long after the sermon had started a couple of teens obliviously carried on with their whispered conversation. They were so engaged that the caustic glance of a worshipper two rows in front of them was totally wasted. It wasn’t until I shushed them for the third time that they modified their conversation by writing notes back and forth. It’s easy for me to get irritated with people who steal my worship time and I have to remind myself that the Spirit probably feels the same way. No doubt He too tries to shush us when we are being disruptive and not paying attention to what He is trying to tell us. “Be still, and know that I am God…” (Ps 46:10a NIV)

Hired Hand

As a church grows, so does the number of staff. The church board gives a lot of consideration into hiring associate pastors, youth ministers and senior’s pastors. Paul describes the church as being one body made up of many parts, ^“But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be.” (1 Cor 12:18 NIV) I find it amusing that we, in all of our wisdom, set about to hire a foot, a hand or an eye. I’m trying to think about what type of questions I’d ask if I were to interview an ear.

Ah-Ha

Each week our church bulletin gives a report on the previous week’s donations. Recently we had a sizeable first of the month offering and a member asked me, “Wow, where does all that money come from? That’s a lot of money. Does the church get interest on some kind of investments?” She was somewhat taken back when I told her the money was simply donations. I can so relate to her astonishment. I have the same reaction every time I encounter someone who has conquered a discipline that I didn’t even know was a part of Christian maturing.

United

Recently some folks in our community began a recall of the County Commissioners. At first the political wind seemed to be favoring those circulating petitions; however the momentum now seems to be changing because another group has come out in opposition to the recall. I am reminded of the chief priests and Pharisees going after Jesus, “They looked for a way to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowd because the people held that he was a prophet.” (Matt 21:46 NIV) I find it interesting that the chief priests and the Pharisees weren’t afraid of Jesus himself, they were afraid of the crowd. Whether it is in the political or the religious arena, we often underestimate the power we have over others when they perceive we are united in thought.

Trumpeting

A friend of mine taught in public school for 30 years so the community is full of past students, parents and fellow educators whose lives she has touched. Interestingly I’ve head people criticize this former teacher’s retirement saying, “I’m tired of hearing about her students and that she was a teacher. She needs to get over it and move on.” Recently I overheard this same teacher in a one on one conversation with a young man, who was a past student. Exuding enthusiasm the former teacher said, “I am so proud of you…of where you have come from and where you are going.” Trumpeting our accomplishments aren’t always synonymous with tooting one’s own horn…sometimes it’s merely an extension of our giftedness in being an encourager.

Curb Check

Our downtown area has gone through a traffic makeover to make it a safer place for pedestrians and drivers. Not everyone is happy with the design of the traffic flow, the bulb outs and the narrowed down street. Recently a constituent complained, “You’ve made it too hard to drive downtown…you have to be so careful.” Exactly the point! We need to go no further than looking at the tire marks on all the street curbs to know that more than a few of us are not staying in our designated lane of traffic. I can see similarities with the Word. Many portions of the Bible are designed to slow us down, make us cautious and show us how to navigate obstacles of sin. Often our attempts at obedience are marked with curb checks, but thankfully the curb is there.

Trolling

In Internet speak a ‘troll’ is a person who tries to bait others on message boards. I am excited about the word with this definition and I plan to add it to my religious vocabulary. We’ve all been in Sunday School classes or Bible Studies where the discussion is deliberately derailed by someone throwing in controversial thoughts just for sport. While we can’t stop others from derailing a discussion, it’s possible that identifying their comments as trolling will shine a light on their motivation.

Bailout

Recently two men gave money to help bail out different organizations. Billionaire Warren Buffett gave billions of dollars directly to a bank, while California school superintendent Larry Powell gave up $800,000 in salary over the next three years to the Fresno County School District. Both men can be credited with giving back to their circle of influence, but there is one big difference - Mr. Powell didn’t see his gift as being newsworthy. His generosity was motivated by he and Mrs. Powell asking themselves, “What can we do that might restore confidence in government?” I love the fact that Mr. Powell is also an ordained Baptist minister…chalk one up for Christian witness.

Save Yourself

Those who passed by while Jesus hung on the cross hurled insults at Him and said, “…come down from the cross and save yourself!” (Mark 15:30 NIV) We know that Jesus took our sins to the cross and figuratively speaking that’s where they are today – still hanging on the cross. Yet not a day goes by that we don’t sense the world telling us the exact same thing that was told to Jesus, ‘…save yourself.’

Amputation - part two

After being forced to amputate his toes because of an accident, Jon Hutt had the wherewithal to recover the detached body parts and take them with him as he raced to the hospital. Unfortunately the doctors found that the crushed toes were not viable and couldn’t be salvaged. I think many of us do something similar on a spiritual level. We might heroically and stoically cut off the body part that causes us to sin, but then we turn right around and take it with us trying to figure out how we can get it reattached. Jesus said, “And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell.” (Matt 18:9 NIV)

Amputation

Local logger Jon Hutt was involved in an accident that pinned his toes under a piece of heavy equipment. Unable to get help Mr. Hutt did the only thing he could do to free himself, he cut off his toes with his pocket knife. Mr. Hutt has a great attitude, “I don’t feel bad about what I had to do, because it could have been a lot worse. I lost my toes; it’s not going to end my life.” On the religious landscape I love this image of Jesus offering us similar advice. ^“If your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life maimed or crippled than to have two hands or two feet and be thrown into eternal fire.” (Matt 18:8 NIV)

Labor Day

We all place value on our labor for the kingdom, but Jesus has a way of putting things in their proper perspective lest we become boastful. ^“I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.” (John 4:38 NIV)

Evacuations

The media, local officials and rescue personnel are showing a little aggravation toward people who have had to be rescued because they failed to evacuate when they were told. I can so relate to their frustration. Believers are always sending out spiritual warnings that fall on deaf ears. Don’t get me wrong, I’m on board with Fanny Crosby’s cherished hymn that goes, “Rescue the perishing, care for the dying; Jesus is merciful, Jesus will save.” However I can’t help but measure the difference between rescuing someone who is clueless and someone who has been warned.

Manholes

I found it interesting that water pressure from street flooding can actually lift manhole covers up and off of the holes that they cover. People walking or driving cars are looking to avoid debris and obstacles that they can see, but few think about falling into an unseen hole. Spiritually speaking I can see many of us being similarly naive. Some of us may feel pretty confident at resisting temptations, taking thoughts captive and fleeing from immorality. However, nothing humbles us faster than standing firm over an uncovered manhole.

Tangled

In the Disney animated movie Tangled, Rapunzel was held captive for 18 years. It wasn’t until she escaped the tower that she learned her real parents were the king and queen. I think we’ve all had those times in our life when we didn’t like our parents and wished for the fairytale experience of getting a new mom and dad. Jesus puts a lot of emphasis on God being our Father, but I wonder if we sometimes fail to grasp our role as a child of the King.

Changing Their Tune

Recently, while traveling to Australia, a country western singer/songwriter had a bad experience with an airline. Not only was he overcharged on his luggage containing his CD inventory, but the luggage was then lost. His efforts for reimbursement fell on deaf ears until he wrote a song about the experience. When the song became public, the airlines immediately made a reimbursement of $2,500. It’s amazing how quickly we change our tune when we are faced with exposure. ^“There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.” (Luke 12:2 NIV)

Love Your Government

We’ve heard many elected officials give evacuation plans for hurricane Irene. However I think New Jersey Governor Chris Christie took the emergency preparedness playbook plans one step further and overlaid it with Biblical principles, “First go to your family and your friends and save the shelters for those who have no other place to go. Don’t make a shelter your first resort, but make it your last resort.” No doubt many of us fail to practice ‘love your neighbor as yourself’ because we’ve abdicated our responsibility to the government.

Sinker

There are times when I seem to be having one tumultuous situation after another and I find myself asking, ‘What next?’ and then telling the Lord it would be nice to have a one day reprieve where I weren’t bombarding Him with prayer needs. The reality is that it’s during those stressful situations that I depend more fully on the Lord, rather than depending on my own abilities. I think many of us are a lot like Peter walking on the water…we have to be sinking before we cry out, “Lord save me!” (Matt 14:30b NIV)

Backpack Ceremony

With the new school year upon us some pastors in a neighboring community are sending kids back to school by having a ceremony and blessing their backpacks. One Reverend is quoted as saying that the items a student carries every day are, “items that are symbolic of whatever is going on inside of us. They are important.” I find this whole situation odd. Although I’m sure that the ceremony is well intentioned, blessing inanimate objects just doesn’t connect for me. But aside from that, I really have to wonder if the Spirit isn’t just cringing at the thought that the tools we use are somehow symbolic of whatever is going on inside of us.

Ripe

This year we planted a few different varieties of small round and pear shaped tomatoes. Now I know a ripe red tomato when I see one, but I’m still trying to figure out these little yellow-orange fruit guys. Every couple of days we’re picking and eating a small handful of fruit, but we continue discussing what constitutes ‘ripe’. Should I pick the fruit when it’s yellow or when it’s golden? After I’ve eaten it I wonder if it would have tasted better had I waited another day or so. I think we sometimes have a similar problem in the church. Figuratively speaking, a believer will sometimes be picked for a ministry before he’s spiritually mature. If he’s too green we can no doubt let him ripen on the window sill, but you have to wonder how much better he would have been if we had left him to ripen on the vine.

WWJD

When my kids were young and would get into a spat I’d ask, “What are you arguing about?” I could get an earful from each side as they defended themselves, their actions and lobbied for my support. As we get older we continue to have disagreements, but seldom do we hear anyone ask the question, ‘What are you arguing about?’ I suppose we hold back because we think it’s not our business to get involved or mediate division between adults. On the way to Capernaum the disciples were arguing about who was the greatest. Interestingly Jesus had no qualm about asking, “What were you arguing about on the road?” (Mark 9:33 NIV) The disciples didn’t respond, but kept quiet. It’s intriguing to think that if we were to use Jesus’ tactic, we too might be able to squelch a few of today’s arguing factions.

Recycling

To illustrate repentance for eight year-old David, his dad took a piece of paper that he said represented sin, wadded it up and let it fall to the floor. Walking away he explained that when our sins are forgiven they are nothing more than a piece of discarded trash. Later that evening while getting ready for bed David picked up the wad of paper and asked, “Daddy, do you want me to recycle your sin?”

Bird’s Eye View

There was a recent news report about a wealthy Arab man who owns a private island. Mr. Hamad memorialized himself by designing a two mile long waterway that spelled out his name in capital letters. The name HAMAD is in such large print that it can clearly be seen from space. Someone needs to tell Mr. Hamad that shouting at God won’t get him noticed.

Changing the Formula

I recently heard a presentation where an organization that is dependent on government funding justified their fee increase by changing their formula for assessing dues.  Then I read where the State implemented a new formula for calculating ACT scores and now records are being set for the highest scores Colorado has seen in 10 years. Sadly we in the religious arena are no different. Rather than being obedient to God’s Word, individuals and denominations offer up changes in formula to one another so that we are socially acceptable and can continue in our sin.

Inside Voice

I have a teacher friend who reminds her students coming in from recess of the need to tone down their volume and use their inside voice. Now I know as mature adults we can’t (or won’t) use that tactic on one another, but I think the idea has merit. All too often what is in our heads comes right out our mouth. Because we have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, imagine how much better off we would be if we were reminded to use our Inside Voice.

Remedies

One of our political activists is such a bully that my wishful thinking leads to thoughts of ways to marginalize his attacks. I’m not thinking anything too serious, but laryngitis, job transfer or a doctor imposed quarantine might all offer a reprieve. Lately this particular activist has uncharacteristically missed some local meetings, so a few of us were asking one another, “So where’s Waldo?” Would you believe it…God, with His sense of humor, sent him on a three week vacation.

Mission Accomplished

A service man returning from Afghanistan told the media that that their unit’s mission was accomplished. Forming a leading question one reporter then asked the soldier about the men who were lost on the mission and would not be returning. The soldier confidently responded, “Their mission was accomplished.” In the church we often grieve over what seems to be the untimely loss when a faithful servant dies. Maybe our faith would be better served if we too looked at a fellow believer’s passing as being a mission accomplished.

Continued…

Six year-old Lydia was only moderately impressed with her craft project of six paintable refrigerator magnates. Trying to generate some enthusiasm I showed her the prince, princess and the enchanted castle. In a sing-song voice she said, “They’re OK…I’m just not a very good painter. I can’t stay in the lines all the time.” I finally eased her worries by showing her the lopsided ceramic bear (or dog…depending on your imagination) with one short leg that her daddy made when he was a child. Once her spirit of perfectionism was neutralized, she had a great time being creative. I can’t fault Lydia’s initial reaction. Even as an adult, God will sometimes give me an opportunity and I can hear myself unenthusiastically saying, ‘I’m just not very good, I can’t stay in the lines…’

Home Run

My grandkids were having a sleepover so I picked up a couple of craft projects to help keep them entertained. Eight year-old David was beyond ecstatic with putting together three pre-cut wooden race cars. Following the instructions he and his granddad glued, sanded, painted and applied stencils. I knew I’d hit it out of the park with the craft selection when David continued to be excited and even started imagining himself being skilled enough to now start building furniture. Jesus said, “If you…know how to give good gifts to you children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matt 7:11 NIV) I can only imagine the pleasure God gets watching us get excited over the gifts He gives us.

What a Waste

A letter writer to Dear Abby said, “I don’t want to waste my life watching her [mother] waste hers.” I think many of us who have friends and loved ones captive to addictions can relate to the writer. I’ve certainly experienced times when it seemed like another person’s addiction was draining the life out of me. Carrying that thought into the spiritual realm, I’m now wondering if we don’t have the same sort of feelings when it comes to non-believing loved ones. Are there times when we are so desperate for others to come to the Lord that our life gets consumed by their failure to accept Jesus Christ? It seems possible that some of us might be wasting our life by watching a non-believer waste his life.

Careful What You Ask For

In the next 60 days petitions will begin circulating to recall our three County Commissioners. I find the more pressing issue of a recall is the proposed candidate replacements. Without candidate competition and a campaign the voter doesn’t have time to fully vet the proposed replacements. So my question would be, could we be worse off with replacements? Reasoning that they wanted to be like other nations, the Israelites asked for a king to rule over them rather than the Prophets. God let them have their kings – the good, bad and the ugly.

Life Expectancy

The average life expectancy for a US citizen is 78 years-old and I think many of us live with that measure in mind. When I heard of a Birthday celebration for Mary Phelps who just turned 111 years-old, I couldn’t help but wonder if she had ever prepared herself to live 33 years beyond her average. In the generations from Adam to Noah the men lived anywhere from 700 to 900 years old. As a general rule people procrastinate, can you imagine how long people might put off accepting Christ if they lived to be 700 years old?

Minority Report

Some of those in Congress were elected because of their campaign promises to their Tea Party constituents. I listened to reporter and talk show host Geraldo Rivera bemoaning the fact that he is losing money on his retirement funds and insisting that it’s time for these newly elected officials to forget about those constituents back home and to do what is best for the nation. In the church we too are sometimes encouraged and pressured to do what seems best for the majority. However, I think it’s good to remind ourselves that it’s actually the minority who gains eternal life. “But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matt 7:14 NIV)

Referee

When my children were young they would occasionally try to boss each other around and I would have to step in and remind them of their position…that neither of them were the parent, nor the adult. I now find myself in an interesting position where a colleague wants to boss me around, which then triggers the childhood reaction that says, ‘You’re not my boss and you can’t tell me what to do’. In time we may get our differences worked out, but I can’t help but secretly wish that God would step in and remind both of us of our positions.

Closet Tither

Learning to pry my fingers off of my tithe was a defining moment in my Christian maturity. As believers we can help each other turn the other cheek, doing unto others and praying, but when it comes to giving tithes and offerings we don’t ask for help. We hold our pocket book close to our chest, not wanting anyone – friends, family or foe – to know our tithing habits. Jesus cautioned us not to be boastful when giving to the needy, but I have to chuckle when I think of modern day titiers…most of us have little to boast about.

High Road

A letter writer to Dear Abby was divorcing her husband of 10 years for infidelity. The writer wanted advice on letting other people know the reason for the divorce and that she was not responsible. Abby’s advice was to consider the feelings of the children and take the more dignified high road by saying that it was a mutual decision. I am so glad Abby wasn’t handing out advice to those who wrote the Bible. Somehow I can’t imagine Paul looking the other way in regard to sin in order to take the high road.

Drop-Ins

My local Toastmasters’ Club dissolved because we don’t have enough committed people attending to take leadership positions. Over the last few years the standard justification has been, “My schedule is so busy that I can’t commit to regular attendance, but I’ll come when I can.” There is sometimes a similar attitude in the church. Not only is it used as an excuse, but surprisingly we accept it as a perfectly reasonable explanation. Really, can you see any of us getting away with telling the Lord that were pretty busy, but we’ll drop in when we can?

Forced

Recently I was caught in bumper to bumper, stop n’ go traffic on I-70 for over 40 minutes. My irritation level climbed as some drivers snuck around the pack by driving on the left shoulder of the road. I found myself snuggled up to the car in front of me just to keep other drivers from forcing their way in as they jockeyed for position. Eventually the logjam cleared and my attitude improved. An hour later I came upon an accident that required traffic to merge into one lane and I willingly held back so the semi-tractor trailer next to me could move in front of me. He smiled and waved a thank you and it felt really nice to have done a simple courtesy. I pondered the difference in my reactions between having a choice to let someone merge and being forced to let someone merge.

Lucky Dog

I saw a bumper sticker that read, ‘An Obedient Dog is a Happy Dog’. Watching a dog being totally absorbed in pleasing his master brings a smile to one’s face. I think something similar could be said about believers. We really are happy when we’re obedient…it’s just the obedience training that sometimes wipes the smile off our faces. “This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome…” (1 John 5:3 NIV)

Slow to Learn

Recently I watched a handful of adults maneuver to exclude a colleague from their focus group. Their tactics included moving a name plate to another location, tightening their circle of chairs so there was no room for anyone to join and turning their backs toward the one they wanted to ostracize. The writer of Hebrews reminds us that we too can be guilty of not maturing. “In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness.”  (Hebrews 5:12-13 NIV)

Lead Us Not Into Temptation

A metal barricade, warning signs and fellow hikers yelling words of caution didn’t stop three young Christians from challenging a dangerous waterfall at Yosemite National Park. I suppose the death of these young people will be listed as accidental, but their actions were certainly deliberate. Spiritually speaking we too crawl over barricades, ignore warning signs and downplay the wisdom of others. And the danger doesn’t have to be the size of a 317-foot waterfall; it could resemble a simple irrigation ditch.

In Residence

It’s not unusual to see inspirational thoughts, Bible verses or quotes posted on the walls of the church facility. Last Sunday I saw a dozen or so little silver picture frames scattered about the building each displaying the same verse. I was somewhat taken back to read, “He is not here; he has risen!” (Luke 24:6a NIV) In a flash I had my very own Mary-at-the-tomb-moment and thought, ‘I’m at church, what do you mean He’s not here?’ I really do have to laugh when I think about how many of us began our search for the Lord by going to the church and expecting to find Him there.

Preview

I can’t help but wonder how Saul/Paul felt after he regained his sight and Ananias told him about his new job description. “…This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”  (Acts 19:15-16 NIV) I’m not sure I’d like the advanced warning on the suffering part. However, there is one consolation. At least I’d be able to differentiate between the suffering I brought upon myself by making poor choices and the suffering that I did for the cause of Christ.

Feeling the Love

This week I attended a local government meeting where an angry constituent told his elected officials, “If you don’t vote ‘no’ for being a pass-through organization for grant funding, then you don’t love your country.” I was embarrassed for the constituent on a couple of different fronts. 1) He is a fellow believer and 2) he sounded remarkably similar to many email chain letters that say, ‘If you don’t forward this email then you don’t love God’. It’s amazing how far off base we can get when we are left to our own reasoning and wisdom. Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13 NIV)

Sanitizing

After children’s church last week a visiting student excitedly told her grandpa what the lesson was about. Grandpa was having a hard time relating to what he was hearing, so he asked the teacher about the lesson. When he learned it was about Eglon and Ehud (Judges 3:12) he was a little taken back, “Isn’t that story a little gory for kids?” It’s interesting that we think skewering a fat king, hammering a tent peg into a man’s head or being eaten by worms is gory. I think much of our weakness on today’s religious landscape can be attributed to our sanitizing Scripture and retelling only the warm fuzzy stories.

Laying at My Feet

A listening ear can sometimes be interpreted as an agreeable ear. For many of us it’s hard to distinguish that fine line between hearing someone out because everyone is entitled to his own opinion, or stopping an opinion by pointing out when statements are in error and not factual. In hindsight I usually regret not speaking up and thereby giving the impression I’m in agreement. When I find myself in this, ‘I wish I’d said…’ reflection, I can’t help but think of Saul watching over the stoning of Stephen. I can only imagine (Saul) Paul’s later regrets at keeping silent in the midst of false witnesses making false accusations. (Acts 7:54 - 8:1) I can’t help but wonder how often the clothes of false witnesses have been laid at my feet.

Busybodies

Recently I was at a social event where a man was bending my ear with a lot of misinformation, rumors and unfounded statements. My efforts to tell him the truth and refute his accusations didn’t get far and he insisted his statements were accurate. He referenced his source of information as being the local coffee groups in town that were saying the same things. We are all familiar with the Timothy passage (1 Tim 5:13) about idle women being busybodies and gossips. However after a little Scripture research, I’m comfortable with putting this particular man, his actions and his thought processes in the category of being a gossip…quite the unmanly picture.

A Matter of Convenience

Fairly often I hear of older folks who need errands run or shuttle service, but they don’t want to inconvenience their family, so they ask for help from the church.  Certainly we in the church have an obligation and a responsibility to help one another, but I have to laugh at the rational. Exactly why is it OK to inconvenience fellow believers and friends, but we don’t want to inconvenience our family members? “If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” (1Tim 5:8 NIV)

Extreme Make Over

Elections seem to be all about ‘throwing the bums out and replacing them with someone who will do what we want them to do’. It appears to me that the threat of not being reelected to another term just doesn’t seem to working. I’m wondering if, rather than throwing them out of office, the existing elected officials should be pressured and forced into doing the will of the people. It’s really not such a farfetched idea. When we come to the Lord we more often than not fail in our role as Christians. But the Lord doesn’t say, ‘throw the bums out and get replacements’, instead He molds and reshapes us into His likeness. Surely if sinners can be turned into saints, there’s hope for bums being turned into productive public servants.

What’s in it for me?

When I served as President of the local Toastmasters Club I was admittedly a little sensitive when the District Office put pressure on us to increase our membership. I understand the importance and the benefits of having a larger club; however I’ve never known anyone to place membership because they wanted to grow the club. Most of us joined to improve our public speaking – to get over fear, to polish a presentation or to be able to think fast on our feet.  I think the same can be said about the church. Believers don’t come to Jesus because we want to grow the church; we come because we want a personal relationship with the Son of God.

Dinner Guests

A colleague and I are seldom on the same page and I thought that going to lunch together might help us mend a fence or two. He publicly rejected my invitation saying, “I’m not going to eat lunch with someone who doesn’t like me.” I have to laugh…my colleague’s sentiments almost make the Pharisees of Jesus’ day seem righteous. Their complaint was merely that Jesus and the disciples were eating with tax collectors and sinners. (Matt 9:10-11)

Religion That’s Acceptable

I recently interviewed a gentleman who is 96 years-old. When Bob was single and 35 years-old, he took his neighbor on a hunting trip that ended in tragedy. Their car hit black ice and plunged into a canyon killing the friend. It was apparent that even though 60 years had passed, it had not dimmed Bob’s grief, “I hated it. I hated to go back home and face the widow…she had four small children.” Then with a sudden lift in Bob’s voice he continued, “It ended up that I married the widow with the four kids.” Bob and Gladys never had any children of their own, but they were married for over 50 years when she passed away. “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (James 1:27 NIV)

Out of Office Reply

Every once in awhile I’ll get a response back from an email that says, ‘Out of Office Reply’ and I appreciate knowing it may be a day or so before I hear back from them. When I send out a spiritual-email I don’t always expect an immediate response from the Spirit, but I know for a fact that He is always in the office. When the Spirit sends messages to us I’m wondering if we sometimes let them fall into the category of spam, failed mail or blocked mail. Worse yet, we’re cautioned to not open a message unless we know the sender. It’s possible that we don’t even open the message simply because we didn’t recognize the Sender.

Becoming Less

Many of us take ownership of our ministries and believe we have power to keep them or give them away whenever we want. However there are times when our ministries are snatched away from us or someone removes us from service. As I read about the passion that John the Baptist had for his ministry, I’m struck by how effortlessly he relinquished his role to Jesus. John might easily have thought that he and Jesus could be co-leaders or that they could each keep their ministry, but work in different locations. John might even have suggested that he take the seniors and Jesus take the young adults and children.  When changes of leadership come to our personal areas of ministries, we should be as gracious as John was toward Jesus, “He must become greater; I must become less.” (John 3:30 NIV)

Sifting Instructions

During the Last Supper Jesus told Simon Peter that Satan asked to sift you [Peter] as wheat. Peter responded, “Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death.” (Luke 22:33 NIV) I suppose Peter’s response could have applied to the sifting remark, but it seems to me that he just skipped over Satan’s request. Had it been me I think I would have asked Jesus, ‘What exactly does it mean to be sifted as wheat? How long does it last? Is it anything like what Job went through?’ Scripture tells me what to do when I’m tempted by Satan (resist), but I’m not quite sure we’ve been given sifting instructions.

Counting Sheep

Last Sunday one of our ladies fainted right before church started and the ambulance was called. The responders included the police, fire department and EMT’s numbering about 10 people. Virginia was accompanied to the hospital by her husband Don, an old time preacher/overseer/shepherd of the flock. Once the emergency was past and Virginia was safe in the doctor’s care, I’m pretty sure Don was thinking we should be able to add those emergency personnel to our attendance for the week.  So the question begs, exactly how long does a warm body need to be in the building before you can add them to the count?

Independence Day

We had the grandkids (ages eight and six) for a sleepover this weekend and they enjoyed a little taste of freedom. They played on the slip n’ slide until they decided to quit, chose to eat corn dogs and Cheetos over broccoli and stayed up two hours past their normal bedtime. Our grown-up feelings of freedom aren’t quite as easy to come by. However, as believers, we are told that creation will be, “…liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.” (Ro 8:21b NIV)

Growth Rings

Our neighbor’s large tree branches were hanging over into our yard so this spring we did some serious tree trimming. A few of the limbs had to be cut off from the main trunk and were well over a foot in diameter. Not wanting to miss an educational opportunity we let the grandkids count the rings on the stump, showing that the trees were well over 40 years old. We pointed out the growth pattern of wider rings indicate a good water cycle for that year. I’m wondering if sometime the Lord cuts into my heart just to check out my spiritual growth pattern.

Witness Protection

I think the disciples were somewhat naïve when they first began following Jesus. However Jesus didn’t downplay what they could expect when he told them about the persecution, being delivered to synagogues and prisons and even being brought before kings and governors all on account of Jesus’ name. I can so relate. When I ran for public office I naively thought I would be serving my community and trying to set good policy…it never crossed my mind that my real job was to be a witness to others. “But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.” (Luke 21:14-15 NIV)

Turning Water Into Living Water

After three days I was preparing for yet another hour long dusty and dry class. However I was pleasantly refreshed by Colorado Supreme Court Justice Gregory Hobbs’ presentation on water management. As he talked about the “singing of working waters, the life giving sustenance of water” and “water blessing everything it touches”, I overlaid his descriptions with the waters of baptism and now I’m wondering if I’ve been missing something. Regardless of size, when I see a body of water, I should also see its potential to become the waters of baptism. “The eunuch said, “Look, here is water. Why shouldn’t I be baptized?...Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him” (Acts 8:36-38 NIV)

Contingencies

At a recent conference I attended a session titled, Budgeting 101, managing the public checkbook. Among my take-a-ways from the class was the fact that a department head’s draft budget is often filled with contingencies. Rather than budgeting for the ordinary, they budget for the unexpected and the ‘what if’ situations. It often follows that at the end of the year they have a ‘use it or lose it’ philosophy. I’m thinking that my prayer life may be filled with a few contingencies, seldom do I pray just for the ordinary. “Give us today our daily bread.” (Matt 6:11 NIV)

Floodgates

On the news we’re hearing that the floodgates on the Mississippi River are being opened in an effort to prevent flooding. I was reminded of an incident a couple of years ago where a local political activist threatened to open the floodgates of opposition if elected officials ignored his demands.  I never quite figured if the activist misjudged the political water depth, or if he had the wrong key to the gate. “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.” (Ro 12:3 NIV)

Compassionate

Fairly often I see a TV commercial soliciting $25 to buy a food box for Holocaust Survivors. I don’t mind the thought that my contribution will show these elderly people that someone cares. However, a couple of their assertions cause me pause. “You can bring the blessing of God back into their lives…You will show them that God cares about what they have endured in their life.” I just can’t think that God would be pleased by those statements. If God’s blessings have gone out of my life, a $25 food box will not bring it back. It seems to me that those who came through the Holocaust would recognize that God cares about what they have endured in their life…their survival alone is proof of His caring.

Wrong Key

The Southern Baptist Convention just passed a resolution advocating a path to legal status for illegal immigrants. A newspaper article reported that the SBC, ‘which has been declining in membership and baptisms in recent years, sees ethnic diversity as one of the keys to a turnaround’. I can imagine the Spirit being offended at the thought that ethnic diversity somehow is a key to more baptisms.

Doing the Calculations

I have a colleague who both privately and publically bemoans the fact that we have lengthy meetings. It’s not unusual for a candidate or volunteer to look at a job opportunity and think, ‘The job looks easy, it will only take three or four hours a month. I can easily fit that into my already busy schedule.’ For most of us, doing a job and doing it right requires a lot more time investment than we thought. There is always a cost associated with everything we do, even a cost to being a disciple. Jesus said, “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it?” (Luke 14:28 NIV)

Belt of Truth

Recently a colleague publically accused me of going on a witch hunt for political purposes and that my actions were, ‘mean-spirited, vindictive, vial and disgusting.’ There was a time that I would have wilted under such criticism, regardless of whether or not there was any truth to the sentiments – but no more. I think my reactions are different because of a wardrobe change. Today I wouldn’t be caught dead outside the house without being dressed in the Amour of God. (Eph 6:14)

Stay Here and Keep Watch

When I was in the Navy everyone took a rotation of standing watch. My station was in the women’s barracks and I learned to be grateful for the regiment of walking the halls making bed checks, securing exits and writing logs. Had it not been for the structured requirements of the job it would have been difficult to stay awake. Twice at Gethsemane Jesus asked his disciples (Peter James and John) to stay and keep watch while he went away to pray. Each time he returned he found them asleep because their eyes were heavy. Without excuse, “They did not know what to say to him.” I think that had they grasped the duties and responsibilities of keeping watch, they wouldn’t have fallen asleep. (Mark 14:32-41)

Showing Dirt

A deciding factor on some of my purchases is whether or not the item will show dirt. A light color car always looks cleaner than a dark color car. A coffee spill or grease spot can be seen on a solid colored shirt easier than on a patterned shirt. I even picked out my kitchen counter tops based on the fact that the texture and multicolor would hide the stains, wear and tear. My selection worked all too well and now I find it’s almost impossible to keep the counters clean. Because I can’t see the spills and food crumbs in a small area I have to wipe down the entire counter to make sure it’s clean. I’m wondering if I do something similar when put myself in situations where the dirt of sin will be hard to detect and not always cleaned off. In the world my sin is not going to show as easily as it does in the believer’s world.

Records of Wrongs

I find myself in an awkward and somewhat spiritually unhealthy situation. I have to document events in order to protect myself and have a clear recollection of certain situations. Each time I make additions to the documentation I’m reminded of all the infractions. In essence I am not letting go of the past, but actually keeping it alive because I’m keeping a record of wrongs. We often hear it said that it’s easier to forgive than to forget…but I’m thinking that both are easier than keeping a record.

The Cloud

Rather than storing data on our computers, the industry now wants all of us to store our data in The Cloud. The promotions say when you need the data, you simply reach up to and retrieve what you need. When I hear people talk about the cloud my mind goes to the book of Hebrews. Here the writer gives us the image of a great cloud of witnesses (heroes of faith) who cheer us on as we run our race. “…let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” (Heb 12:1b NIV) I have to say that I’m much more confident in the cloud of witnesses than I’ll ever be in the data cloud. 

Simon the Cyrene

On the way to Golgotha Simon the Cyrene didn’t volunteer to carry the cross for Jesus, he was forced to carry it. There are times when I’ve been coerced into carrying a cross that doesn’t seem like it’s mine and I feel anger, resentment…and then guilt for being selfish and unloving. We have no way of knowing what Simon felt on the way to Golgotha, but I can imagine that after the Lord’s resurrection he saw carrying the cross of Jesus in a whole new light.

Burdens

I write a weekly newsletter for church and the feature article is an interview of someone in the congregation. A recent story was about a young woman who escaped an abusive relationship and later married a nice young man. Tragically the young woman was widowed eight years later and left to raise her daughter as a single parent. The mother of the young woman was surprised that her daughter would even consider doing an interview, much less be so open. After reading the article the mother said, “She has told you things that I’ve never known…things she’s never shared with me.” Because the young woman took a chance and gave us a glimpse into her life, we have a better understanding of what she may need from the church family. “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Gal 6:2 NIV)

People of Prayer

Because of some recent political drama I’ve had a lot people telling me that they were praying for me. I’m grateful and appreciative of any and all prayers, but two individuals intervening on my behalf have never really struck me as being people of prayer. It may be that they recognize I’m a person of faith, and knowing I value prayer, this is their way to support me. “Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.” (Rev 5:8b NIV) I always thought it might be interesting to take a look-see at those captured prayers of the saints…but now I’m thinking about my own contribution to the bowl over the years.

Ruby Rings

My mother-in-law wears a ruby ring which she found by a railroad track in Oklahoma when she was a child. There has always been speculation as to why the ring was in that location. Did the owner break an engagement and toss it out the train window? Was it stolen property? Was a child using it to play dress-up and accidently dropped it? After the recent tornados there are parts of people’s lives strewn for miles across the mid-west. There could be ruby rings in lakes, ponds and trees. “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” (Matt 13:44 NIV)

Mary Magdalene Experience

When people come to the Lord later in life they often have a more dramatic God experience than the rest of us. For the last few years my daughter has been under a great deal of strain because of leasing a car rather than buying a car on payments. This month she reached the end of the lease and was able to turn in the keys. With a new day dawning she laughed, “What a relief. This is probably the closest thing I’ve ever felt to what a new believer experiences when he accepts Christ. The burden is lifted, your sins are forgiven and you can walk away from your old life free and clear.”

Revealing

Sometimes we look to preachers, teachers and fellow believers to mature us in the faith. And then there are those seasons in our life when we take responsibility for our own growth and education in the Word. I think there is another origin of understanding that we often fail to recognize and that is the insight which comes directly from the Spirit.  We normally look to one another and to ourselves for answers, but few of actually recognize when the Spirit reveals things to us. Peter declared Jesus to be the Christ, the Son of the living God, and Jesus 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) 

Taking Stock

Two years ago Wal-Mart discontinued name brand products supposedly to “…tidy up stores for the wealthier customers it had won during the recession.” The store is now going to spend the next nine months aggressively trying to restock and regain the customers they are losing. I see some similarities between the church and Wal-Mart. Almost all mainline churches have gone through some deliberate renovations, whether they have eliminated Sunday School, tossed out hymnals or dressed down to Sunday casual. They may have gained a new demographic, but they also lost many faithful and mature members. I do see one big difference between the Wal-Mart decision makers and church leadership…Wal-Mart knows when to regroup and get back to their base. Church leadership on the other hand have spent years justifying their dismantling of the church and implying that their actions were God-led. I can see where it would be a little difficult for them to now go back to the basics and sell people on the idea that God has somehow changed His mind.

Afraid of Heights

It’s been fun watching our fledging church spread her wings. Even though our preaching elder continually improves in the presentation of the message, I haven’t detected people trying to put him on a pedestal. It may be that the majority of our membership is the type who’s older and more mature in the Word and knows better than to pedestal men. Personally I see a preacher with a humble spirit who is just one of our number and is wise enough to be afraid of heights. 

Security

Last fall I became eligible for Social Security and the small in stature check is automatically deposited. At first it was only when I received my bank statement at the end of the month that I realized I’d failed to enter the deposit into the check register. As a reminder I’ve now started penciling in the check amount two or three months in advance because I can depend on it being deposited and being the same amount each month. You would think that same security would somehow translate into spiritual matters. Maybe I need to start writing some of those Bible promises in my day timer to remind me that the Lord had already deposited them into my account, ‘fear not…, greater is He that is in you…you cannot be tempted beyond…’

P B & J

Recently I was a bystander in a conversation where one person asked another, “And how are you doing?”  In response it was mentioned that the family would have no money coming in for two weeks, but it was also stated three times, “We have nothing left to eat but beans and peanut butter, so we’ll be eating a lot of chili and peanut butter sandwiches.” Although the family is in a dire situation, members of the church family have and will continue to help them. While I am sympathetic to the food situation, I was also reminded of my family’s stories of the Great Depression…all they had to eat were beans, they would have given their left leg to have had the peanut butter. We believers are often guilty of focusing on what we don’t have, rather than rejoicing that the Lord has provided the beans and peanut butter. 

Playing Dress-Up

Last Sunday a little boy of about six or seven years old came to church wearing a button down dress shirt that was one size too large and a man’s clip-on necktie. The end of the tie reached almost to his hips, but he was beaming with pride at being able to dress-up like a man. Isn’t this just the same picture of believers when we first try to put on the Armor of God? The only piece of the armor that actually fits is the Helmet of Salvation.

Over Shadowed Memorial

My father was a Navy veteran, but he was also an alcoholic and a less than commendable dad. He passed away years ago and I have yet to visit his grave site, even though I occasionally pass through the community where he is buried. I have to admit that for me, his actions in life over shadow his military contribution. I realize that in a sense I’m setting a double standard. It would be wrong for me to begrudge my Dad being honored for service when I know that Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is the only reason that God overlooks the actions in my life.  

Over Shadowed Memorial

My father was a Navy veteran, but he was also an alcoholic and a less than commendable dad. He passed away years ago and I have yet to visit his grave site, even though I occasionally pass through the community where he is buried. I have to admit that for me, his actions in life over shadow his military contribution. I realize that in a sense I’m setting a double standard. It would be wrong for me to begrudge my Dad being honored for service when I know that Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is the only reason that God overlooks the actions in my life.  

Squawk

An article in our local paper describes the efforts of a 5^th grader who is organizing a club to stop bullying. The strategy of the club is to “talk, walk and squawk”, which means ask the bully why they are being mean, walk away and tell an adult what happened. I love it…maybe we in the church should adopt a similar slogan. Though believers hate to label it as such, there are bullies in the church. Our normal Biblical remedy for bullies is to take all our burdens to Him. However there is also Scripture that directs us to talk and walk first…then we can squawk to the Lord.

Miracles

I have a friend (a believer) who over the years has spread rumors, gossiped and embellished situations. Recently an immediate member of his family was stricken with a life threatening disease and now there is a noticeable change in my friend. It appears that his prayers for a miracle are now intertwined with asking forgiveness of those who have been his targets. It’s as though he suspects that his past behavior might hinder his prayers for a miracle and he is trying to make amends. Out of this sad situation I see shades of David’s heart and I’m struck that miracles do come in all shapes and sizes.

She Did What She Could

It’s often subconscious, but we believers do compare ourselves to one another in our service to the Lord. It may be that we feel guilty knowing we should do more or we critique others thinking they aren’t doing as much as they should or could. The cranky disciples were critical of Mary anointing Jesus with perfume, but the Lord stops their criticism and draws attention to her beautiful act of preparing Him for burial. In a sense Jesus actually anoints Mary (and all of us) when He tells the disciples, “She did what she could...” (Mark 14:8 NIV)

In Style

I ponder the styles today, especially the frayed jeans with rips and holes. Although it might well match their style, I can’t help but believe that these young people wouldn’t be caught dead driving around in my husband’s old dilapidated 1981 Ford trash truck. The body is rusted through, the sun visors hang at an angle and the door handles are loose. We can indulge personal choices to a degree, but there comes a time when, according to Jesus we are expected to put on the wedding clothes. “But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. ‘Friend,’ he asked, ‘how did you get in here without wedding clothes?’ The man was speechless. “Then the king told the attendants, ‘Tie him hand and foot, and throw him outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ “For many are invited, but few are chosen.” (Matt 22:11-14 NIV)

God is My Strength

When I hear people talk about God being their strength it conjures up in my mind the thought of God lifting them up and getting them through trials and tribulations. I seldom have the image of an already victorious man giving credit to God for strength. Certainly the song lyrics, ‘when I am weak, He lifts me up’ are correct; however I’m wondering if we should also in our strength be thinking, ‘when I am strong, He keeps me up’.

Advocate

Monday I mentioned Mikayla, severely autistic and unable to talk, but who can communicate things like yes, no, sleep, come and go with limited sign language. Mikayla was playing with her iPad when her younger sister started playing with the iTouch. Signing to her mother, Mikayla said, “I want two.” meaning she wanted both devices, not just one. Unable to convince her mother to let her have them both, Mikayla came close to me and picked up my hand. Then taking my index finger she decisively pointed it at her mother and then again signed, “two”. There was no doubt that Mikayla thought of me as her advocate and that my finger had the power of persuasion over her mother. I think there is a little of Mikayla in all of us. As believers we’re confident that Jesus is our advocate, but we just can’t help but pick up His finger and point it at whatever it is we think we just have to have. “Even now my witness is in heaven; my advocate is on high.” (Job 16:19 NIV)

Google Glitch

I haven’t been able to post blogs because of a glitch with Google blogspot, so I’ve spent the last two and a half days repeatedly checking in at the site to see if the problem is fixed. Sort of reminds me of impatiently checking in with God when my prayers aren’t answered right away.  “Listen to my prayer, O God, do not ignore my plea; hear me and answer me. My thoughts trouble me and I am distraught…” (Psalm 55:1-2 NIV)

Stealth

We just had a mini family reunion and one of those visiting was my severely autistic niece. Unable to talk, Mikayla uses limited sign language to get her point across. She loves beds, blankets and closets and when she saw my large walk in closet it was as though the heavens had opened up. Recognizing the glory on Mikayla’s face her mother Mandy redirected the 12 year-olds attention to another room, which didn’t have clothes for playing dress up. After about a half an hour later Mikayla emerged from the room in stealth mode. A light bulb went off in Mandy’s head and she laughed, “Oh, that’s it, she’s mad at me. She’s not looking at me and she’s trying to sneak back to the closet. She thinks I won’t see her.” The whole scene was so Adam and Eve-ish!

Pass It On

I used to tire of religious and political emails that say pass-it-on, but lately they just make me mad and I hit the delete button. Instructions that I must send the email on to others conjures up all kinds of resistance such as, ‘I’m capable of making my own decisions…, you’re not my parent…, and don’t tell me what to do!’ As believers we do something similar to others. Rather than allowing the Spirit to motivate them, we’re often busy trying to tell people what there gift is and then we take it a step further and let them know when, where and how we think they should use their gift for the Lord. It’s no wonder that some in the faith get burned out and hit the delete button.

The Enemy

Lately I’ve found myself in the strange position of championing a sect that, from a belief stand point, I oppose. I remembered that Jesus was in opposition to chief priests and teachers of the law, yet at least one of his secret followers was in fact a member of the Sanhedrin. However I think the most applicable Scripture for me comes from Paul, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Eph 6:12 NIV) I need to be reminded that the enemy is not flesh and blood.

Spam

Email spam used to be easier to identify, but the spammers are getting craftier all the time. Two that I’ve gotten in the past say, “The article is very professionally written. I enjoy reading Christianear.blogspot.com every day.” And, “You’ve got great points there, that’s why I always love checking out your blog.” I have to admit that just knowing the comments were false, didn’t stop them from striking a chord for my ego. No doubt we as believers are also guilty of using religious spam on one another. “I will show partiality to no one, nor will I flatter any man; for if I were skilled in flattery, my Maker would soon take me away.” (Job 32:21-22 NIV)

Silence Before the Shearer

In last Sunday’s newspaper a letter writer took pot shots at me in my position as an elected official. The writer said that I was, ‘devoid of experience, should be sent packing and that my service was a sham.’ [Not exactly what I wanted to read on Mother’s Day.] As I contemplated whether or not to respond to the writer the verse that came to me was, “He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.” (Isaiah 53:7 NIV) It’s remarkable how Jesus could take the abuse and yet remain silent. I decided that in my situation I did indeed need to respond to the letter writer and I found a way to remain silent, yet still speak the truth.

National Day of Prayer

Last week while attending the National Day of Prayer a woman’s “amens” mixed with “yes, Jesus” were said throughout the public prayers. I considered her to be a sister of faith with a more charismatic bent, but I was surprised to learn that she was Catholic. Most of my knowledge of Catholicism is of traditions, ritual and structured worship. I’d wondered if their denomination was changing, or if I’d met my first charismatic Catholic. I’m now pondering how structured worship may in fact restrict the Spirit.