Manipulation

The newspaper reported that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), who administers millions of acres of public lands in Western States, is asking for public comment on uranium programs. I went to submit my comments, but interestingly, the web address given in the article took me to an environmental group opposing all uranium programs. Going back to the article I did find the ‘official comment site’ listed, however it was more obscure and not as clearly labeled. I suspect that the reporter’s environmentalist bent had something to do with subtly redirecting the public’s attention. Certainly it’s the prerogative of the reporter to be ‘green’. However, leading readers to a website that had not been mentioned in the article brings journalistic ethics into question. Unfortunately, even among believers there are individuals who will use a passage of Scripture out of context to garner support for their line of thought. Whether in the world or in the church, none of us are completely immune from falling victim to deception. “A truthful witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies.” (Proverbs 14:5 NIV)

Brother’s Keeper

When my children were teens I cautioned them about underage drinking. Well actually, it was more than a caution. I threatened that if I ever discovered them or their friends drinking I wouldn’t wait for them to get caught; I’d turn them in to law enforcement myself. I am absolutely amazed to learn that when the FBI released the photos of the Boston Marathon terrorists not one of their immediate or extended family members called law enforcement to identify them. The callousness shown by the family feels similar to the story of Cain and Abel. Cain killed his brother Abel and when confronted by God, Cain lied about knowing the whereabouts of Abel. The indifference and lack of concern displayed by the Tsarnaev family smacks of them too saying, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Gen 4:10 NIV)

Well Armed

Bostonians were in house lock-down for 24-hours while law enforcement went door to door looking for the suspected bomb terrorist. Putting myself in their place I found an element of comfort in the fact that I had recently purchased a hand gun and taken a gun safety class. It really wasn’t so much a matter of my being able to protect myself against a man with guns, bombs and grenades, but rather that I wasn’t at the total mercy of police officers to come to my aid quickly enough if the terrorist was coming through the back door. Spiritually speaking we find ourselves in a similar situation if we aren’t prepared with Scripture written in our mind and on our hearts. When we come under spiritual attack from the evil one we can’t expect preachers, elders and deacons get to us quickly enough to defend us from the attack. Before Jesus began preaching he was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. Jesus was armed with scripture and with each of his three responses to the devil began with, “It is written…” (Matt 4:4,7,10)

Treasure on Earth

Recently in the news media a few financial advisors are expressing concern that people in their 50’s are taking money out of their 401K. They feel that the only legitimate reason for dipping into a nest egg would be to purchase a house and those who have used funds for other purposes should pay back into their retirement fund ASAP. I gave value to their opinions until one 30-something accountant tweaked my jaw saying, “If you haven’t planned for retirement you better enjoy living with your kids…and if you haven’t put aside enough money for your retirement, you will be unfairly burdening the rest of us because we will have to take care of you.” Wow. Some of us already have a hard time grasping that God will take care of all our needs; we certainly don’t need the added pressure of storing up treasures on earth so that we won’t be a burden to others. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” (Matt 6:19-20 NIV)

Puke

For the last few days I’ve been a care-giver for a sick dog with digestive problems. Charlie is now on medication, but the vet restricted him from eating grass because it causes him to vomit. I’m getting an up close and personal look at the proverb, “As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly.” (Proverbs 26:11 NIV) Interestingly there doesn’t seem to be a definitive reason from either veterinary science or Biblical commentary which tells me why a dog would eat his vomit. Peter referenced this proverb applying it to false teachers and their destruction. Left to come to my own conclusions I’m thinking that false teachers either like the taste of their own deceptions, or they think that reiterating heresies will make it easier for others to swallow. (2 Peter 2)

Marathon

The government is assuring us they will find out who is responsible for the Boston Marathon bombings and that justice will be served on those who perpetrated this act of violence. Most of us are anxious for the results of the investigation, but we may be overlooking the fact that God knows who is responsible and we can play a part in the situation by petitioning Him in prayer to quickly reveal those who have committed the crime. “So do not be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.” (Matt 10:26 NIV)

Expectations

I’m getting acquainted with a 41 year-old man who is receptive to becoming a Christian, but has reservations. “Well, I believe in God, but I just don’t know anything. I don’t know any of those Bible stories that everyone else learned when they were kids [Noah, Moses].” Regardless of age, his feelings of inferiority when stepping onto the religious landscape are not unusual. What he, and others, not fortunate enough to be raised in the church fail to realize is that no one is going to question them about Moses, Noah and Daniel in the Lion’s Den. While these are all wonderful faith building stories, they are not a pre-requisite to becoming a believer in Christ. Unbeknownst to my young friend, he is in an extraordinary and enviable position right now because he would be a new believer starting with a clean slate. “I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety–nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” (Luke 15:7 NIV)

Weed Collection

A favorite pastime of one of our local politicians is sowing seeds of dissention in the community. When I see evidence of his half-truths starting to sprout I’m inclined to get out the weed spray or try pulling them up by the stalk. In the Parable of the Weeds there was a problem with being able to tell the difference between the wheat [believers] and the weeds [non-believers]. Intellectually I understand the Lord’s reasoning and His advice against pulling up the weeds, but personally I’d just rather not be growing up among the weeds. “Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.’” (Matt 13:30 NIV)

Clear Choice

My niece is using Facebook to garner support for her homosexual lifestyle and those who aren’t supportive are accused of being intolerant and bigoted. What I find absolutely amazing is that these alternative-lifestyle folks are really asking people of faith to choose between them and God. When I look back over my family tree I see people who struggled with sin in the form of alcoholism, drug addiction, and sexual immorality, but I’m struck by the fact that not one of them ever petitioned the family to accept or support their lifestyle. It’s interesting that even in the church some believers have gone beyond simply embracing their loved ones to embracing the gay agenda. There are consequences for believers who bring sinful agendas into the fellowship of believers. Jesus said, “Things that cause people to sin are bound to come, but woe to that person through whom they come. It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin.” (Luke 17:1-2 NIV)

Iron Lady

I love hearing and reading remembrances of the recently deceased Margaret Thatcher, Britain’s only female Prime Minister. In a report by Associated Press her press secretary said, “Let us not kid ourselves. She was a very divisive figure. She was a real toughie. She was a patriot with a great love for this country, and she raised the standing of Britain abroad.” Thatcher certainly had her political critics, but they always knew where she stood and that she would stand her ground. I think of those in the early church with a similar resolve and determination, such as Paul, Peter, and Stephen. Since we have the benefit of the revealed WORD, I wonder if individuals think Scripture can speak for itself and therefore they are less courageous in confronting and publically stirring the masses. I’d love to see someone in the religious landscape with the tenacity of a Margaret Thatcher. “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17 NIV)

Clean-Up on Aisle Three

We had family visit us for the weekend and my 30-something nephew, who loves to cook, volunteered to do all the cooking. I didn’t feel I could turn his offer down, but I jokingly ask if he also did the clean-up. His answer was ‘no’ to the clean-up, but that the rest of the family would rally around for that chore. Turning over my kitchen to someone is no different than a guy handing over his keys to his woodworking shop and then just watching from the sidelines. By default the kitchen clean-up chores fell to me because I knew where everything was, where things went when they needed to be put back, where the cleaning supplies were located, and which kind to use. The large stockpot cooking on the stove boiled over, there was BBQ sauce on the screen door, and salad greens on the floor. I found myself having a major Martha Meltdown, but unfortunately it was only after I had put the house back in order that I could hear the Lord saying, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things….”  (Luke 10:41 NIV)

Already Said

I’m working on a non-fiction book proposal and while discussing the premise with others, two people recommended I read a particular fiction novel that they thought had a similar theme. Their intent might have been to help me generate additional thoughts on the subject; however, it felt more like they were saying, ‘What you’re proposing has already been written. I just read this other book that says what you are trying to say and it’s already on the market.’ I have to smile when I think of the Gospel authors Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. I wonder if they had similar comments and warnings from their friends, publishers and editors.

Preaching Milk

Every once in awhile I’ll hear a sermon that, to me, seems diluted and lacking depth, but invariably someone else will say the same message was exactly what they needed to hear. Paul chastised the Corinthians for their lack of spiritual growth and described them as worldly, mere infants in Christ. “I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready.” (1Cor 3:2 NIV) I have to admit that my thoughts have always focused on the immature Corinthians, but I’d never considered the frustration that Preacher Paul must have experienced when he was forced to deliver a milky-type message.

Miscalculation

The sandstone rocks in Utah have become an attraction for daredevils ‘pendulum’ swinging through the stone arches. One young man was recently killed when he smashed against the rock wall. Although his equipment was all in order, he had miscalculated the length of rope needed. It’s interesting that there is a cost associated with everything we do, yet we give it little thought. Our focus is always on the benefit, the pleasure, or the reward. Jesus said that just as a builder estimates the cost of building his building and a king estimates the cost going into war, we too must estimate the cost of becoming His disciple. Unfortunately, most evangelism methods concentrate on having all the equipment in order, rather than on calculating the cost. “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be my disciple. And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:26-27 NIV)

At the Well

In today’s society it’s not unusual to see a hyphenated name when a woman keeps her maiden name, or a long established first marriage name may be kept when there is second marriage. In a recent obituary the lengthy hyphenated surname of 90 year-old Sally was the result of four marriage and divorce situations. The family is quoted, “She never gave up on finding love.” I thought of the Samaritan woman who Jesus encountered at Jacob’s Well. Jesus revealed to her that he was aware of her five previous husbands, as well as her current in live-in relationship. Without any apparent discomfort, hesitation or explanation, the woman simply said, “Sir, I can see that you are a prophet.” (John 4:19 NIV) I love the fact that this woman, rather than going home in embarrassment, went back into town and shared her Jesus experience with her community. “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did”…and knows I haven’t given up on finding love.

Same Services

Civil unions are now law in Colorado and the only exemption is that the bill doesn’t require religious leaders to perform a same-sex marriage ceremony. Charles Ashby, reporter for the Grand Junction Sentinel states, “Unlike last year’s bill, the new law doesn’t allow anyone, including religious groups, to discriminate against same-sex couples by denying them the same services they provide to heterosexual ones.” Apparently legislators made a distinction between ceremonies and services. One has to wonder if services include sacraments, baptism, or even being a candidate for positions of authority – elder, deacon and teacher. It will be a struggle for churches to navigate the waters of holding fast to the Word of God and also being forced to be as inclusive as the new law demands. “Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self–condemned.” (Titus 3:10-11 NIV)

Disenfranchised

Every month our congregation focuses on a different outreach ministry and last month our support went toward the local soup kitchen. The information insert in the church bulletin described the dedicated kitchen volunteers as coming from all walks of life, “who are the hands and feet of Jesus for the poor, hungry and the disenfranchised”. On the surface all three of these categories might seem benevolent. Certainly people of faith are to feed the hungry, even if they are an enemy (Ro 12:20). Jesus suggested that the rich young man give to the poor (Matt 19:21) even though the poor will always be with us (Matt 26:11). However, citing the disenfranchised gives me pause. By its nature, being disenfranchised means being deprived of something that you have a legal right to, such as the right to vote. I have to tell you that I’m struggling with the idea of feeding someone because they are disenfranchised. The question becomes, do any of us have the right to be fed? Paul said, “For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “If a man will not work, he shall not eat.” (2 Thes 3:10 NIV)

The Day After

Our local newspaper doesn’t publish a paper on Mondays, so occasionally the comic strips and syndicated columns differ from those printed in other local papers. On Easter Sunday the paper published the Dear Abby column which began, “Dear Readers: It’s April Fool’s Day…” I have to say that I was a little miffed at the newspaper editor. I couldn’t decide if it was just sloppy editing or if he wanted to move the community quickly past Easter and get minds set on the next calendar event, April Fools…or both. After some thought, maybe the error is more appropriate than at first glance for those who reject the resurrection of Jesus, the Son of God. “The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” (Psalms 53:1a NIV)

See-Through

For the last few years I’ve taken my grandchildren, now nine and seven, to Wal-Mart to pick out their own Easter baskets. For me it’s fun to see their eyes light up as they peer through the cellophane wrapper at the toys, bling and variety of candy. Before we make a purchase they look at every basket in the store with a discerning eye and discuss why one basket is more appealing than another. This year as we were exiting the store a little boy and his dad were entering. With big eyes on our baskets the boy said, “Dad… dad…can we buy an Easter basket?” The dad appeared to be on a quick trip to the store mission and Easter baskets were obviously not on his shopping list. I have to tell you I really felt bad for that little boy. Even with all the beckoning displays in the store, I doubt he would have thought about buying an Easter basket had he not see other kids leaving the store with their baskets in hand. Something similar takes place when the people we meet can actually see Jesus through the cellophane of the believer’s life. “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” (1 Peter 2:12 NIV)

Easter’s Role

Not satisfied with trying to take Christ out of Christmas, there is an attempt to take Christ out of the resurrection. In some areas of the country there is a move to stop using the term Easter Egg Hunt and rename it the Spring Egg Roll (Chinese anyone?). According to Websters, Easter is “a feast that commemorates Christ's resurrection and is observed with variations of date due to different calendars...” At first I started getting myself worked up, but then realized this is simply history repeating itself. For over 2,000 years enemies of the cross have tried to keep Jesus in the tomb. Pilate gave the first order, “‘Take a guard. Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how.’ So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting the guard.”   (Matt 27:65-66 NIV) I see a striking similarity in the Spring Egg Roll to that of rolling a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb.

Complicated

I’ve noticed that when politicians or interviewees are asked a simple question, rather than giving a straight forward answer, more often than not they say, “Well, it’s really a little more complicated than that.” I’m somewhat offended by such a response. Now, I get it that the questioner may not have all the facts or information and that more time may be needed to explain the situation than what is allotted for response. However, saying that an issue is complicated not only connotes that those asking the question lack the where-with-all to understand the situation, but it also leaves the question unanswered. Jesus responded to almost all the questions that were directed to Him, even those questions asked by the chief priests and Pharisees that were set as a trap. In a hypothetical, Peter asked Jesus if forgiving his brother up to seven times was enough (Matt 8:21). I’m trying to imagine the Lord saying, ‘Well Peter, it’s really a little more complicated than that.”

Amazing Apology

A week ago the episode of the CBS reality show the Amazing Race took place in Vietnam. Much to the chagrin of Vietnam era veterans, the show included a memorial of remnants of downed B-52 that took American lives and a Communist propaganda anthem. Interestingly Bob Beckel, a liberal progressive political commentator for Fox News Channel and a co-host for The Five exploded in protest. Mr. Beckel rallied supporters and together they demanded an apology from the show’s producers. CBS caved and an apology was offered preceding the next episode. What I really love about this situation is that this was not liberal vs. conservative or Democrat vs. Republican. I can’t help but wonder what believers might accomplish if we would simply set aside our denominational differences and come together in a bipartisan manner within the will of God and focus on current media issues that are attacking the faith we share. Jesus reminds us, “Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.” (Matt 18:19-20 NIV)

Emotionally Tuned

My Virgo horoscope in the newspaper read, “Before agreeing or disagreeing with anyone’s opinion, see whether you can sense the feelings behind them. Emotional attunement will lead you somewhere lucky.” More often than not these little gems are counter to Biblical teaching. For Paul, looking at feelings and sentiment is not a substitute for knowledge and understanding, nor will it lead you to luck. “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ,…” (Phil 1:9-10 NIV)

New Digs

In the process of moving a shed in the backyard to make room for a new garage, we eliminated the abode of the neighborhood’s stray cat. The longhaired grey cat was one of a litter born under the shed and it was the only home he has ever known. I’ve never encouraged him to hang around, but the neighbors have kept him well fed over the years. When he first realized the shed was moved there was a look of bewilderment, but then slowly walking through the path of the trench for the foundation of the new garage you could tell he was one disgruntled cat. I’ve seen that look before. When we accept Jesus we become a new creation and it can be very unsettling when the Lord immediately begins dismantling our old, comfortable abode and starts preparing our new digs in heaven. “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:1-2 NIV)

Separation of Church

At the inaugurations of both Pope Francis I and President Obama there were thousands upon thousands of faithful followers from many nations. The people all stood united in devotion, fanfare and anticipation. For me this is such a vivid illustration of the gathering we will see at the Lord’s return. “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.” (Matt 25:31-32 NIV)

Antibodies

A couple months ago I was left with lingering fatigue after being housebound for a week with the worst sore throat I’ve ever had in my life.  At the very least I know I’ve built up antibodies against that particular bug, and if by chance we meet again at least it won’t have the same debilitating effect as the first time. I’m wondering if something similar doesn’t take place with the spiritual viruses residing in our world. Not that we become immune to attack, but that we build up a certain amount of resistance. “This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.” (1 John 4:2-3 NIV)

Opening the Door

In a recent newspaper advice column, Annie’s Mailbox, a college age lesbian was considering coming out of the closet to her family. She wanted to be honest about her relationship, but she was worried about crossing a moral line because her family is religious and conservative. “I don’t intend to rub it in their faces. But it feels like a burden to lie about it.” OK, let me get this straight. She feels like it is a burden for her to lie, but she sees no problem in burdening the family with the truth. The woman seems bent on forcing her family to accept her homosexual lifestyle. Sadly, the church is not immune to sexual immorality…or to boasting about sexual immorality. Paul wrote the Corinthians, “It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that does not occur even among pagans: A man has his father’s wife. And you are proud! Shouldn’t you rather have been filled with grief and have put out of your fellowship the man who did this?” (1 Cor 5:1-2 NIV) I’ve experience many different emotions when homosexuals open their closet door, but I must confess being filled with grief has not been one of them.

Recognizable

Queen Elizabeth is scheduled to sign a document that officially recognizes same-sex unions in the UK. Likewise, the State of Colorado is set to vote on and pass a civil union bill. The Apostle Paul makes it clear that there is no difference between practicing homosexuals and those who operate a Ponzi scheme or write lies in a gossip tabloid. However, I do see one difference in today’s society, I can’t ever remember a drunkard, swindler or slanderer coming out of the closet and demanding to be recognized and accepted. I get weary of the accusation that believers are ‘judging’ when in reality, those who are sexually immoral keep insisting on shining the spotlight on themselves. Paul said, “Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”  (1 Cor 6:9-10 NIV)

Runner-Up

Eight years ago Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio of Buenos Aires was a runner-up for the position of Pope and today he is Pope Francis I. You just have to love all those runner-up stories of people of faith. We know in our heart and mind that we are ready for a position of leadership and when we don’t get the position we often feel God is telling us no, but God may be saying not yet. I think of Moses having to spend 40 years in Midian before God allowed him to return to Egypt and lead the Hebrew Exodus. And Saul/Paul, who was overly educated in the law and had a miraculous conversion, didn’t start his ministry until he’d spent two or three years in Arabia. We need to be aware that the appearance of others crossing finish the line ahead of us doesn’t always mean that the race is over. “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” (1 Cor 9:24 NIV)

Missed Delivery

The other morning I didn’t get my newspaper, so I went on-line to the circulation department and I received back an email auto response telling me the individual I contacted was out of the office for a week. When I finally located the redelivery link, it asked for my name, address, phone number, email address, account number, and password. You would think that just my name and address would have been enough to identify me as a subscriber, but no, they wanted more. Spiritually speaking, many of us do the same thing to the Spirit. Like Gideon, we may hear the Lord talking to us, but we are still uncertain and rather than immediately responding we ask for verification, take time to prepare an offering, and then we build an altar. We too can be heard telling the Lord, “If now I have found favor in your eyes, give me a sign that it is really you talking to me.” (Judges 6:17 NIV)

Tax Season

Like a big dark cloud of unfinished business hanging over my head, I never feel I can actually start the New Year until I get my income taxes done for last year. Sitting across the desk from my tax preparer I know that he is not a government tax collector, but he is the closest thing I have to putting a human face on an electronic filing. Paying taxes seems less painful after I’ve read Paul's explanation, “This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.” (Ro 13:6-7 NIV)

What a Shame

Our local recycling committee is passionate about their save-the-earth cause and in order to get more community involvement they have been given the charge to find ways to educate the consumer. It appears to me that their mode of operation, rather than educating, is to shame us into participation. The shame card doesn’t play well with me for two reasons: 1) I don’t have a green bone in my body, and 2) Scripture tells me that the earth as it is now will be burned up…plastic grocery bags and all. I do wonder however, if the lack of educational efforts by the recycling committee just might have an evangelistic lesson for the church. Trying to shame people out of addictions, pagan activities and a life of sin might work some of the time, but I like Peter’s educational advice on the need for practicing abstinence, “Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.” (1 Peter 2:11 NIV)

A Case for Crying Out Loud

Hollywood has some Bible based movies in production that are set to be released in 2013-2014. It remains to be seen if producers, script writers and directors will take dramatic licenses, or whether they will be true to the Bible text. So far the second installment of the five-part miniseries The Bible, which aired Sunday, appears to be a faithful adaptation to Scripture. Mark Burnett, executive producer of the miniseries, feels that if liberties are taken with the Scripture there could be a backlash from 160 million Americans who regularly attend church. Let’s hope he is correct. We believers have become so lackadaisical in standing up for our beliefs, our values, and our Lord that I sometimes think I can hear the stones beginning to murmur. During the triumphal entry some of the Pharisees wanted to silence the disciples who were praising God in loud voices and they asked Jesus to rebuke them. Jesus responded, “I tell you, if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.” (Luke 19:40 NIV)

In God’s Sight

A fellow believer has, for financial reasons, opted to live with his female companion rather than get married. “We’ve decided that a piece of paper doesn’t really mean anything. In God’s sight we’re married.” Not only was my friend trying to justify himself, but he was also putting me on notice that the church couldn’t possibly question the arrangement because God viewed them as married. Excuse me? I could just picture Jesus with the Samaritan woman at the well. When Jesus asked about her husband she was truthful and said she had no husband. Jesus responded, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” (John 4:17-18 NIV) I’m glad the woman didn’t test the situation by saying, “Umm…but in God’s sight we’re married.”

God Speaks for Himself

In yet another recent letter-to-the editor the writer complained that our nation appears to be plagued by so-called theocrats – people who recognize God, or some deity, as ruler over civil government. His argument seemed to be based on people who presume to ‘know’ the mind of some existent or non-existent deity. “Most [of us] are not so careful about those who claim to be ‘speaking for god’, ‘in the name of god’ or ‘god says’.”  I have to admit that the writer’s comments have some merit, however, they are misdirected and targeting the wrong audience. His intended audience was the liberal-minded living among us, but it is actually we believers who need to be cautious about those who claim to be speaking for God, in the name of God and quoting God. My thoughts turned to the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, but yet they asked Jesus a resurrection question about marriages in heaven. Jesus replied, “Are you not in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God?” (Mark 12:24 NIV) We too will be in error if we don’t know the Scriptures or the power of God.

Pope-less, Not Hopeless

The sound-bite in the media referring to the Pope’s retirement describes the Catholic Church as currently being ‘Pope-less’ but there is also a sense of hopeless in the mix. I was surprised and taken back by Pope Benedict’s final address when said his papacy had been marked by light, but at times marked by darkness when the Lord, “seemed to be sleeping”. There was a time during Israel’s persecution when the people cried out, “Awake, O Lord! Why do you sleep? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever.” (Psalm 44:23 NIV). However, Israel’s petition was to awake the Lord to their need, not that He was asleep. Certainly the Catholic Church has its share of self-induced sex scandals and cover-ups that are now haunting them, but we can’t say that they are being persecuted as a religious denomination. Believers can rest assured that the Lord takes guard duty seriously and He will never be caught sleeping on watch. “My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” (Psalm 121:2-4 NIV).

The Right Side

At our house we do this weird thing whenever there is any type of storm – snow, wind, rain, dust. One of us will look out the front window describing how bad it is and that will cause the other one to go and check out the backdoor window to see what is going on in the backyard. Even though there is only 26 feet between the front and the back of the house, we invariably compare the two sides saying, “Come look out this side. I think it’s worse over here.” I used to laugh at the foolishness of our front and back weather reporting until I remembered the experience of the disciples fishing all night on the Sea of Tiberias without catching any fish. Maybe there’s not a lot of difference between a house and a boat.  Jesus called from the shore saying, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” ‘When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.’” (John 21:6 NIV)

Thy Will, Not My Will

First some back-story on the February 19th blog, ‘Today’s Standards’: In our local newspaper the writer of a letter-to-the-editor put her opinion above God’s Word telling readers that today’s standards show the commitment ceremony of marriage should be extended to same sex couples. In a follow-up letter to the newspaper I challenged not only her comments, but the fact that when she distorts the Word and she is a stumbling block to people of faith. Apparently I hit a nerve. Last week in the mail I received a handwritten card from the stumbling block herself.  “Dear Ms. Marvel, I, too, am a person of faith, and I believe the Creator gave us a brain and a will and expects us to use them. (Signed).” It appears that the stumbling block doesn’t know Scripture, or if she knows it, she doesn’t believe what it says. Either way, she is deceived and deceiving others. Jesus is very clear about the ‘will’ we must follow. He said, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
(Matt 7:21 NIV)

Pot Sticker

My search for a new pair of brown, lace-up shoes has been frustrating. I finally settled on a pair that cost $135, even though they were not exactly what I had in mind. The stitching on the inside of the shoes was sewn with invisible nylon thread and on both sides of the tongues the stiff stubble poked out. While I was writing out my check, one of the young sales women took the shoes in the back room to work on the prickly threads. After about four tries, one of the other young clerks suggested that I might fix the problem by putting a little moleskin over the pointed nubs. Seriously? I suppose if I had been head-over-heels in love with the shoes, or if they were on sale at 70% off their original price, it would have been one thing. But she was asking me to conform to the shoes, rather than the shoes conforming to me. I’m wondering if this situation isn’t similar to our new attire when we become a disciple of Christ. We are given clothes of righteousness and the indwelling Spirit, but we expect the Spirit to mold Himself to us the way we are. We are to be clay in the potter’s hands, but we certainly didn’t expect Him to have the character of nylon thread that pokes, prods and make us uncomfortable until we conform to His likeness. “And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever–increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” (2 Cor 3:18 NIV)

Projectiles

I would be remiss if I didn’t share at least one good take-a-way from the gun safety class. The instructor reminded the class that you are responsible for every projectile that leaves the barrel of your gun. “With a hand gun, that may mean only one bullet. But if you are using a shotgun, that means you are responsible for every projectile in the shotgun shell.” Vice President Biden’s thought that citizens could better protect themselves by using a shotgun rather than a hand gun takes on a whole new meaning. Spiritually speaking, I thought of every projectile that rolls off our tongues and out our mouths. We are responsible for every word spoken whether the intended target is hit, missed, or there is collateral damage to others. “He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.” (Proverbs 21:23 NIV)

Picking Your Battles

The politically incorrect instructor for my gun safety class decided to use Sunday School teachers for his verbal target practice. “How many of you know the Sixth Commandment; what does it say?” The old timer didn’t really want an answer, but he caught us off guard because we were all packing guns, not Bibles. He quickly moved on, “I’ll tell you what it says. It says, ‘You shall not murder’. For years all your Sunday School teachers have been lying to you. They’re liars because they continue teaching you that the Bible says, ‘You shall not kill’ when they know it says murder, not kill.” Although there were many believers in the class, it was not the time or place for any of us to challenge the accusations, but his comments did send me to Scripture as soon as I got home. The King James Version of Exodus 20:13 quoted, “Thou shalt not kill”, but the NIV quoted, “You shall not murder.” According to the NIV study notes, murder is a more accurate translation and the Hebrew for the verb usually refers to a premeditated and deliberate act. I’d love to take his class again if for no other reason than to set the record straight. It is interesting how an unbeliever can help prepare us for the next spiritual battle.

Not of the World

Last weekend I, along with 20 others, took a gun safety class that is required for a concealed weapons permit. Our instructor was a crusty 87 year-old firearms expert who owns a gun shop, firing range, and stays physically fit by doing 200 sit-ups a day. At the beginning of the class the teacher was up-front in declaring that he works hard at being politically incorrect. His intolerance, racial slurs and pot shots at religion were startling. Finally one member of the class got tired of the commentary and asked, “What does all this have to do with gun safety?” Taking the question in stride the teacher reminded us of his disclaimer, that he was not PC and that no one was required to stay if they wanted to leave. Had the teacher been an entertainer most of us would have left the theater, but the reality was that his class was reasonably priced and we needed it in order to get a training certificate. This was one of those instances where I had to remind myself that even though I am in the world, I am not of the world. Jesus prayed to his Father on behalf of his disciples, “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.” (John 17:15 NIV)

Lent

During the early Middle Ages those observing Lent were forbidden to eat meat, eggs and dairy for 40 days. I can relate to their Vegan experience because in December my acupuncturist put me on the same diet. I wish I could say that the last nine weeks have been a spiritually sacrificing experience, but the reality is that I’m obsessing about the foods that I can’t have. The diet restrictions, while a test of my will, have not brought me any closer to the Lord. Certainly I would feel differently if it were the Lord who asked me to sacrifice meat, eggs and dairy, rather that the acupuncturist. “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” (Heb 13:15-16 NIV)

Like Other Men

Last Tuesday my post was about a woman in my community who publically stated in the newspaper, “I don’t think the Creator had anything to do with the institution of marriage. It’s a societal necessity, not a rite of ‘God’.” She also stated that because of today’s standards, we should extend the ‘commitment ceremony’ of marriage to same sex couples. Her comments have caused quite a stir in our faith community, but I was really caught off guard when I learned she is a member of a local mainline, protestant church, albeit a very left-leaning church. I can’t begin to imagine how her church leadership and fellow worshippers were feeling after having read her comments. Certainly the Bible gives us church discipline instructions, but normally the need for correction isn’t newspaper fodder. Let me confess that the first thing to run across my mind was, ‘I am so glad she’s not a member of my church.’ Of course the Spirit immediately chastised me with Jesus’ Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. The Pharisee who was confident in his own righteousness stood up and prayed about himself, “God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector.” (Luke 18:11 NIV)

Trailer Trash

At one of the recent funerals I attended the Hispanic pastor was the grandson-in-law of the deceased. Apparently 29 years ago there was some reservation on the part of a few to accept a Hispanic into the family, but he recounted Grandma Rice’s stamp of approval when she laughed and said, “Well, he’s better than trailer trash!” We all had a chuckle, but then the pastor wove the same anecdote into the service two more times. I began to wonder if his intent was to show that Grandma was all inclusive, or was he still healing from some age old discrimination wounds. I suppose he could have been taking a potshot at someone, or even subconsciously elevating himself above others. Regardless of the intent or motivation, there is a distinct possibility that there were people in the audience who, at one time or another, lived in a trailer park. I suppose there are shades of Pharisee in all of us and in this case a paraphrase might be, ‘Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners…and trailer trash?’ (Matt 9:11)

In Lieu Of

I recently scanned an obituary that was a full half page tribute to the deceased. The 91 year-old man, an accomplished athlete, coach and teacher, had his career summed up saying that coaching was his passion, but teaching was his calling. The dates and the titles of his worldly accomplishments were all listed, but the accolades had no hint of a Spiritual foundation, other than he attended a Catholic high school. The end of the tribute reads, “In lieu of flowers, the Coach would appreciate a couple of prayers on his behalf or, if you choose, donations to either…” I just have to wonder, what type of prayers Coach would appreciate and exactly what good would come of the prayers.

Today’s Standards

In a recent letter-to-the-editor a woman used a shotgun approach to attack every conservative stance that she found objectionable. On marriage she said, “I don’t think the Creator had anything to do with the institution of marriage. It’s a societal necessity, not a rite of ‘God’.” She went on to suggest that by today’s standards, we should allow the ‘commitment ceremony’ of marriage to be extended to same sex couples. Certainly she is entitled to her opinion, but she is not entitled to go unchallenged when she elevates her opinion to be above the Word of God. People of faith understand that God instituted marriage between a man and a woman, not as a rite, but rather as a right. The letter writer is a stumbling block when she asks us to believe that today’s standards somehow overrides God’s Word.

Mind Your Own Business (MYOB)

A recent submission to an advice column was about a married man having an affair with a single woman for over a year. Apparently the wife is unaware, even though it is a small town. The question from the writer is, ‘should I write an anonymous note to the wife, or should I MYOB’. The advice given was that if you are not close to the situation, you should MYOB. I have a completely different take on the issue. I feel the writer should go, not to the wife, but rather to the offenders – the husband and the mistress. It is acceptable to go to the perceived offenders and not only warn them about the rumor mill, but also let them know sympathies are favoring the wife. Exposing the rumor will give the offenders an opportunity to stop the rumor, stop the affair, or stop their deception because eventually someone in town will tell the wife. Paul’s directives on giving a warning are applicable to anyone who should feel ashamed of their actions. “If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.” (2 Th 3:14-15 NIV)

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow

As my family matriarchs and patriarchs pass away my extended family is not in contact with one another like we were years ago, but I was still a little surprised to read of my great aunt’s passing through a death notice in the paper. When I went to the funeral home web site to find out about the memorial service schedule for Aunt Dene I was shocked. Not only was she listed in the obituaries, but so was her sister, Edith. Ninety-one year old Dene died February 8^th, 95 year-old Edith died February 9th and their services will be held on the 14^th and the 15^th respectively. Let me confess that it has been years since anyone had any news about Aunt Edith, so we all assumed she had passed away and no one bothered to let the rest of us know. Both of these great aunts were strong women of faith, but the image of them being greeted at the Pearly Gates by their six siblings who passed on before just cracks me up. They too probably thought their sisters died years ago.

Friends with Benefits

The situation of people living together outside of marriage is becoming more prevalent in the church, but the real shocker is that it is being done by elderly folks. Sadly, many of us are buying their arguments and understand the rhetoric they use that it is based on finances and income.  If widows and widowers were to remarry they would lose their combined income and respective homes and would then have to live in one home and on a single income. Neither person wants to give up their own financial security, but neither do they think they should be deprived of love and companionship. I see two glaring issues. 1) They don’t trust God to supply their financial needs, and 2) They feel they are entitled marital benefits outside the bonds of marriage. Awhile back I had a discussion with a fellow believer on the current trend and when he talked about the need for intimacy and he said, “I just don’t think God wants us to be lonely and to suffer.” When I questioned his correlation between suffering and abstinence he decided suffering probably wasn’t exactly the right word to use. Jesus cautions us to put the temptations of the world in their proper place, “For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.” (Luke 12:30-31 NIV)

Yes, No, Wait

Our local newspaper is reporting on a situation of a man in dispute with the city over some property. “He’s been trying to get the city to buy it from him for years and maintains he can’t get an answer on the subject.” I have to laugh at the obvious. The man has been trying to sell the property for years and the city has not taken him up on the offer, so the answer is ‘no’. At one time or another most of us have heard the little ditty that God answers our prayers with ‘yes, no, or wait’. Sometimes our prayer requests are well thought-out, seemingly justifiable, and yet unfulfilled. We too can be seen stamping our feet and maintaining that we can’t get an answer on the subject.

The Door

From my kitchen window I can watch my neighbor’s dogs in her backyard. They are playful with one another, but more often than not I see them standing or lying at the back door. It’s interesting to watch what they do in order to get their owner’s attention. The younger dog gives a single bark and then cocks an ear to the door to hear if he is getting a response. The older one does a semi-scratch with one paw on the door as though giving a nudging reminder to the owner that he is still waiting. The Lord said, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.” (Rev 3:20 NIV)

Quagmire

There are a couple of vacant lots down the street from my house and our recent thaw has left them a quagmire of adobe mud. The other day three middle school youngsters, one girl and two boys, decided to cut across the lots and quickly got bogged down. About half way through the girl turned back, but the boys were having a grand time. Helping one another keep their balance they would lift first one foot and then the other all the while admiring the amount of mud accumulating on their shoes. “Whoa dude look at this. I can hardly lift my foot.” I told Bill if they would have been my kids I’d have scalped them. Bill laughed, “I did the very same thing when I was a kid. I was wearing my boots and I was invincible.” Reminiscent of David’s song to the Lord, “He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights.” (Psalms 18:33 NIV)

Brotherhood

This week at Toastmasters a participant used his two minutes of podium time by talking about those occasional jingles and songs that get stuck in your head and they just keep going around and around. Don then went on to say how discouraged he was by the constant upheaval on the political landscape where the attacks on one another never cease and seem to be getting harsher by the day. Don had a great antidote, “When we start hearing it [trash talk] we need to have a response that makes us think and feel better. Don then began singing, ‘O beautiful for spacious skies, for amber waves of grain, for purple mountains majesties, above the fruited plain! America! America! God shed his grace on thee. And Crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea!’” (America the Beautiful, lyrics by Katharine Lee Bates and melody, Samuel Ward 1913)

Picking Scabs

Our newspaper has a daily column titled ‘Out of the Past’ that publishes snippets of their archives from one, five, ten and thirty-five years ago. Most of us like having our memories jogged about past events and situations, but unfortunately this column is often used to pick scabs off of old wounds. Spiritually speaking, we can do the same thing to ourselves and to others when we just won’t let go of past. Paul uses his persecution of the church is an example of turning a sinful scab into a simple scar. “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.” (Phil 3:13 NIV)

Gaslighting

I just read an interesting article about ‘gaslighting’, a term that was made popular in the 1944 film Gaslight. The plot of the movie is about a husband using deceptions, beginning with the brightness and dimness of a gas light, to convince his wife that she has lost touch with reality and is losing her mind. His diabolical plan was to have her committed so he could get his hands on her inheritance. I’m wondering if the first recorded incident of gaslighting can be found in Genesis when the crafty serpent said to Eve, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” (Gen 3:1 NIV)

Swan Dive

I've seen video clips of music concerts where entertainers do a swan dive off the stage and into the arms of adoring fans. They are then passed along above the heads of the crowd by people with up stretched hands. One video making the rounds is of a fan who gets up on the stage after a show and arrogantly assumes he too is worthy of being passed around. His wings are quickly clipped when he flies off the stage, the crowd separates beneath, and he lands spread eagle in a face plant on the ground. Believers sometimes attempt something similar, only we lovingly call it a leap of faith. I thought of Jesus standing on the highest point of the temple and Satan telling him to throw himself down, because after all, the Lord’s angels would lift him up in their hands. Jesus’ response is a good reminder for us as well, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” (Matt 4:7 NIV)

A Full Life

Twenty-five year old freestyle snowmobile rider Caleb Moore died from injuries in an accident at the Winter X Games. Many of those being interviewed about the young man reflect, “He lived his life to the fullest.” Our church body recently lost an 80 year-old Christian stalwart, and we too would say that he lived a good and impactful life. Interestingly, the 55 years age difference between the two doesn’t change our view of a full life. There was and is grief associated with Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross, but it is comforting to remember that He lived His lift to the fullest. . “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NIV)

Medicinal Spirits

For over a week now I’ve been housebound with the worst sore throat I’ve ever had in my life. My old friend Marvin, a Southern Baptist teetotaler, told me that he and his wife had also been out of commission and they finally resorted to two teaspoons of gin every two hours. “I don’t like the stuff, but it was the only thing we had on hand. We don’t ever drink it, we just use it for soaking our raisins.” My grandma was a member of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and her home remedy for a cold or sore throat was a mixture of Jim Beam and honey. Isn’t it interesting that even though Paul had the ability to perform miraculous healings, he encouraged young Timothy in the use of good old home remedies. “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.” (1 Tim 5:23 NIV)

And For Dessert

Losing his battle against cancer, Bob’s life was slipping away. His family knew he was heaven bound and they didn’t want him to linger. Though they had emotionally released him to the God, his wife and daughter, Earline and Sharla did have one request of the Lord. They had heard stories of angels being present to usher saints home when they die…and they wanted to see the angels. Monday night as the family was finishing supper the daughter-in-law came into the dining room with the news that Bob had passed. Although Earline and Sharla would like to have been by Bob’s side when he passed, they had to laugh at the Lord’s timing and sense of humor. At the exact moment of Bob’s death, they were eating angel food cake.

Like Father, Like Son

The media is reporting that the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) may be considering a retreat from their no-gays position. One of those being interviewed on TV was a young man in his late teens who had completed all the requirements for Eagle Scout, but the award was withheld by the BSA when he publically came out of the closet. The young man’s father supported his son saying (paraphrased), “The Boy Scouts promote being honest and telling the truth. My son should not be penalized for telling the truth.” So let me get this straight. You want to justify using lies and deception throughout a scouting career by finally telling the truth. Actually, my angst is not as much with the son, as it is with the father. Not that the dad has any sway over the son’s sexual orientation, but he is the adult. He is the one who should have been promoting honesty and truth telling. “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6 NIV)

Equipped for Service

Last summer about a third of our congregation went on a weekend campout together, which put a void in the Sunday morning worship service. Not that those of us who remained were the sick, lame and blind, but we were the crowd that is no longer suited for sleeping in tents, going without indoor plumbing or braving the elements. At the church it was apparent that we had some missing body parts. Our singing lacked its normal volume and some of our older communion servers, who only thought they had retired from serving, were called up for duty. I love the fact that even when we are separated by distance, we are still equipped to function as one body. “But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be….As it is, there are many parts, but one body.” (1Cor 12:18, 20 NIV)

Accountability

When my children were in school I was very attentive to their curriculum, teachers, and environment. If books were not appropriate, I got on the curriculum committee and worked to change what the school district purchased. When a teacher started teaching eastern meditations and spiritualism, I transferred my child to another class. Today I hear a lot of criticism about what is being taught in colleges, including Bible Colleges. As a non-traditional student going to a Christian college, I now understand some of the criticism and concerns. Some professors and academic types want young people to set aside their previous life and educational experiences so that they are more moldable for higher level thinking. No doubt some of my professors are lamenting the fact that this 64 year-old student is not as impressionable and moldable as the traditional student. Is it possibly that what is missing on the college landscape is lack of parent involvement?

What Difference Does It Make

Four Americans were killed in Benghazi, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton testified about the attack in a hearing before Congress. When she was questioned on the motivation for the attack she became angry and fired back, “Was it because of a protest or was it because of guys out for a walk one night who decided they’d go kill some Americans? What difference, at this point, does it make?”  My mind turned to the 26 children and adults who were killed at Sandy Hook and I wonder if any politician dare say the same thing. This type of attitude can also be seen in the church where some might think, what difference does it make why Jesus died on the cross? Peter reminds us that it does make a difference, “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1Peter 3:15a NIV)

Going With the Flow

I’m fascinated by the flow of traffic in a metro area. The on and off ramps, overpasses and varying speed limits are all designed to allow cars to merge smoothly in and out of traffic. When everything goes according to plan, drivers can speed-up or slow down, pacing themselves according to the traffic flow. Of course there are always drivers who are reckless, distracted, or simply out for a Sunday drive. I think we in the church might have some things in common with those drivers on the freeway. I have a vision of new believers trying to merge into the traffic of seasoned fellowship. Too timid and they might get run over, too aggressive they might get shut out or cut off. I think back to my formative years in faith and I’m thankful for those believers who yielded and allowed me merge into traffic without honking their horn or shaking their fist.

Making the Grade

I’m taking on-line classes and when the Old Testament Survey class professor emailed my grades for the first two lessons, I was transported back to junior high with that dreaded report card in my hand. I remember as a kid always being afraid to look at my report card because I never knew what to expect. Today I like the idea of going back to school, but I hate the thought of spending the next two years being anxious about grades. When I shared my concerns with my cousin he advised, “Don’t worry about the grades, just pass the class. No one is ever going to go back and look at what your grades were.” I thought he made a good argument, but my Expository Writing professor shot his theory to pieces. When I send my papers in for grading, she simply keeps sending them back for correction. Often our motivation for making respectable grades is to meet requirements, or to please others. I have to confess that I’d never considered pleasing Jesus with my schoolwork. “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Col 3:17 NIV)

Confessional

About a year ago a fellow believer came to me asking my forgiveness and confessing that he had been harboring anger in his heart toward me and spreading rumors. Even though he knew that as a Christian he was in error, he believed he was justified in his feelings. I would have felt different about his confession had he not then gone on to reveal it had a direct correlation to upcoming political activities. He thought I might hold sway in the public arena and was worried I would say something that would shed a negative light on his business and his reputation. I see some similarities in the recent confession of Lance Armstrong. In the spirit of forgiveness I can accept both confessions, but I do wonder about the motivation of a confession that is self-serving and career-saving. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.” (1 John 1:9-10 NIV)

Off With Their Ear!

Newsweek magazine is celebrating the swearing in of Obama for a second term. The cover of their on-line version of the magazine shows the President looking reverently up into the heavens with the headline proclaiming, “The Second Coming”. My spiritual blood boiled, but when I turned it down to a simmer, I thought more rationally. The bottom line is that the magazine is trying to sell more magazines and any battle belongs not to me, but to the Lord. On the night Jesus was arrested He reminded his companions that their defending swords were not the right response. “Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels?” (Matt 26:53 NIV).

Bodily Functions

Steve commented on a recent blog that the conversation of older folks always seems to turn to aches, pains and bodily functions. I began to wonder if we don’t somehow open that conversational door ourselves. When we greet one another we usually ask something like, “How are you? How are you feeling?” Maybe we should be asking more thought provoking questions like, ‘How are you finances?’ or ‘How are you doing emotionally?’ Or better yet, we could truly turn the conversation upside down by asking, “How are you doing spiritually? Don’t just tell me you’re doing fine. I really want to know how things are going for you spiritually.” This is not such a farfetched idea, as members of Christ’s body it’s absolutely appropriate to talk about our bodily functions.

When Did We See

We can hardly get out of a store or a restaurant without the smiling cashier asking, “Would you like to donate to_____?” Of course they are all worthy causes and even though the fundraiser is trying to put a face to those who are suffering, I often can’t see past the corporate structure. I don’t discount giving to organizations, but I think the Lord wants us to be invested in benevolence and have a connection that we can see for ourselves. “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’” (Matt 25:37-39 NIV)

Rachel and Doug

If you own a telephone or a TV you are likely acquainted with Rachel from Card Services and Doug, a victim of mesothelioma. Not to diminish Doug’s health issue, but do you ever wonder what happened to Doug? Did he go into remission or did he succumb to his disease? Once in awhile I’ll run into a fellow believer whose conversation is similar to that of Rachel and Doug and they repeat the same thing over and over again. It’s as though they take their favorite passage of Scripture and turned it into a witnessing advertisement. Not that repetition of Scripture is bad, but I wonder where the church would be today if Paul had witnessed like that.

Ready, Set, Go!

My friend, who has blood disorder, has had blood transfusions for over a year. Even though the situation has steadily deteriorated, his wife of almost 65 years recently said, “I’m just not yet ready to let him to go.” All this time they could make the decision on when to stop the transfusions and I’m sure they felt they had an element of control over his life. This last week it was determined by doctors that the transfusions are no longer working effectively and they will be stopped. I can only imagine being in the wife’s place and having to pry my fingers off the control button and giving it back over to God. Jesus reminds us that whether it is for ourselves, or for others, when it comes to death we really have no control. He said, “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” (Luke12:25 NIV).

Sanitizing

Even though I’ve had my flu shot, I still take precautions. Sunday after church we considered going to a buffet restaurant until I started thinking about all those hands that touch the same serving spoon and all the youngsters serving themselves who, bless their hearts, are walking Petri dishes. Spiritually speaking, when we accept Jesus we are inoculated against sin, but that doesn’t mean we are immune. James’ suggested precaution includes, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double–minded.” (James 4:7-8 NIV)

Ricochet

A few nights ago about midnight I was startled from sleep by what sounded like something smaller than a bread box falling somewhere in the house. First I looked out the front and backyard windows just in case the noise actually came from outside. Then I started going through each room looking for something out of place…I might add that all the while I’m playing detective Bill is sleeping well. Finding nothing out of place, I returned to bed praying that God would reveal what had fallen so I could clean it up and that I could easily go back to sleep. I knew I hadn’t dreamed the noise, so the following days I continued to scan the house for the noisemaker. Finally I found the culprit. Apparently my hair curler bag under the sink toppled into a large bottle of hand lotion which on its way down crashed into an aluminum bottle of air gel. Even though it turned out not to be a big deal, my relief of just knowing was a big deal. I think we can see this same scenario played out spiritually when one life situation bumps into another. What a relief when the cause and effect is revealed by the Spirit.

Tools of the Trade

The man in charge of organizing other men in our church to serve communion called to say he would be out of town on Sunday and he then proceeded to pass along a detailed list of the duties for the servers. Realizing he was overdoing the instructions he chuckled, “What can I say…I’m an engineer.” We often forget that when people become part of the body of Christ they don’t simply leave their career and personality at the church threshold. Even though the disciples left their nets on the shore of Galilee to follow Jesus, they didn’t leave behind their nature of being fishermen. Jesus said, “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matt 4:19 NIV)

Perception, Deception

I am not a fan of David Letterman, but his reported interview with Oprah Winfrey caught my attention. Letterman acknowledges seeing a psychiatrist once a week and said, “For a long time I thought I was a decent guy, but yet thinking I was a decent guy, I was still capable of behavior that wasn’t coincidental to leading a decent life. I really want to be the person I believe that I was.” His comments were eye opening for me. I have never understood why people do dastardly deeds and then act as though nothing is amiss. I give people credit for being intelligent enough to know right from wrong, so to me their choosing to do wrong, for whatever reason, is a deliberate action. It never occurred to me that in their mind they perceived themselves as being a decent person. Paul understood this inner struggle, “So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me.” (Ro 7:21 NIV) However, he didn’t deceive himself saying, ‘What a decent man I am!’, but rather, “What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord...” (Ro 7:24-25a NIV)

Fixer-Upper

Couples in serious dating relationships are often cautioned to re-consider the idea of marriage if they have any thoughts about changing the other person. It’s interesting how we can view a person with different habits and personalities as being a fixer-upper. I sometime wonder if people don’t come to Jesus with a similar pre-disposition. We become the Bride of Christ, but then we’d like to do a little fixing-up on the Jesus we fell in love with. Rather than conforming to the likeness of Christ, we subconsciously expect Him to become more like us. “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son…” (Ro 8:29a NIV)

Never Alone

The parking lot at a local recreational site was snow packed, icy and congested with people and cars. In an attempt to avoid hitting another vehicle the driver of an SUV swerved, hitting two pedestrians and killing them. A bystander reported hearing the driver say, “I should have just hit the car. It would have been better to hit the car.” No doubt we all wish we could avert tragedy through the lens of hindsight, but that just isn’t possible. I can imagine the after-the-fact regret for Adam and Eve when they ate the forbidden fruit, Moses striking the rock which kept him from entering the Promised Land and David’s adultery with Bathsheba. Even when we are without excuse God says, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” (Heb 13:5b-6 NIV)

Perspective

Rivers in Colorado have a problem with tamarisk, an invasive species of bush that is squeezing out native vegetation. The State is working at eradicating the tamarisk, not only because it is invasive, but because it also sucks up a tremendous amount of water. Recently a newspaper reported on visitors taking a float trip down the Colorado River and seeing the dead and dying brown shrubs. They wondered if it was drought related and they were sad for our loss of vegetation. The reporter asked, “Is the death of the tamarisk sad or long overdue?” The world might look at faith in Jesus in a similar way, but from the perspective of the believer, death of the sinful nature is not sad. “In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” (Ro 6:11 NIV)

Spare Me the Details

Homosexual marriage is not a visual I want stuck in my head and it has me thinking about Catholic priests who listen to confessions on a regular basis. I wonder if the priest can then get the ‘sin-stuff’ of others out of his head, or if it resurfaces and replays like a bad movie. I can’t help but think that listening to the depravity of man might somehow affect one’s own moral conscious. Or maybe the sinner simply confesses a sin, without going into the details. “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16 NIV)

First Do No Harm

The Hippocratic Oath is often credited for the phrase “first do no harm”, but the essence of the phrase is actually found in the Hippocratic Corpus. Normally the sentiment is applied to the medical field and the physical body, but I’m wondering if it might also be applicable to the spiritual well being of fellow believers and our interaction with one another. “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.” (Ro 15:1-2 NIV)

New Year’s Resolve

Most New Year’s resolutions have common denominators of being self-serving and easily broken. David has me pondering his God-serving resolve. “Though you probe my heart and examine me at night, though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin.” (Psalm 17:3 NIV)

Fear of the Lord

I’ve been studying wisdom literature in the Bible and the concept that wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord, and that fear must be taught and passed down from one generation to the next. Understanding this heritage in wisdom, I look back on my own genealogy and see where some of my ancestors dropped the ball completely, while others only taught their children to love the Lord. I’m not sure that any of them grasp the responsibility they had in passing on the fear of the Lord to future generations. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.” (Proverbs 1:7 NIV)

Fishing From the Bank

I ran into a friend who told me that although there were problems in her church, she would never change churches. “I just couldn’t leave because I’ve been a member there since 1967.” I can remember have similar feelings a few years ago when I felt that church heritage somehow superseded my spiritual need for a change of scenery. I can imagine the Lord shaking his head at our willingness to be fishers of men…just as long as we can stay on the bank of our own familiar pond. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men. At once they left their nets and followed him.” (Mark 1:17-18 NIV)

Blurred Standards

Recently a man applied to get a liquor license for the restaurant he owns in Colorado. His background check revealed that he was a Mexican National, his Social Security number was held by at least 13 other people, he was not allowed to work in the US and his border crossing card restricted him from travel beyond a 60 mile radius of the Mexico border. One of the questions that the Liquor Licensing Authority had to determine in the hearing was, ‘Is the applicant of good moral character?’ The applicant has been in this country for many years and numerous people spoke on his behalf saying he is the father of two teenagers and he wants them to have a college education. He is friendly to everyone and all he wants to do is make a living to support his family. I don’t know this man personally, but the fact that he has not abided by US immigration laws speaks volumes of his moral character. We believers do a similar thing when we blur the line of salvation. Even though God’s desire is for everyone to be saved, saying someone is a really good person does not gain them entrance into eternal life.

Adrift

Last week there was a news paper report about two fishermen lost at sea for three weeks when their boat engine died. “The water was too deep to use the anchor and the current too strong to use the oars, so the boat slowly drifted away from Jamaica.” I have this mental image of believers who find themselves in a precarious position spiritually. “We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.” (Heb 2:1 NIV)

God’s Gift

I watched my grandchildren, ages 9 & 7, open their age and interest appropriate Christmas gifts – $15 in one dollar bills, Lego blocks, Polly Pocket doll, and books. I wonder what they, or we adults for that matter, would have thought if we had received gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. I can envision some of us investing the gold and re-gifting the frankincense and myrrh. It is not uncommon for people to sometimes receive a gift that they really don’t know what to do with…even the gift of Jesus Christ.

Pre-Death Grief

Recently my cousin lost her husband and although his was not a lingering death, he was bedridden for some weeks and the encouragement, the get well and Thanksgiving cards all piled up. Laura emailed, “I decided to open the cards tonight while I was alone and it was quiet.  As I opened each one, I began to realize that the hard part was that I wasn’t prepared for whether or not I was going to have a Christmas card or a sympathy card.” I’ve always found it comforting in reading about the manner in which David grieved for the son he had with Bathsheba. While the boy was ill David pleaded with God, fasted, wept and slept on the ground. On the 7^th day when the child had died, David picked himself up, changed clothes and put on lotion. “now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him [when I die], but he will not return to me.” (2 Sam 12:23 NIV)

Naughty List

While shopping in the toy aisle of Wal-Mart I found myself next to man and his granddaughter. The mite of a girl, with a full head of long hair, had her back to me as she was looking up at the shelves of dolls. Apparently she was shopping for herself with her own money, but some dolls were out of her price range. The grandfather suggested that some of the things she wanted might be under the Christmas tree. Although I didn’t hear her response, I smiled when I heard him say, “Well, what did you do to get on the naughty list?” I finished my shopping, and as I was leaving, I saw my two toy aisle friends coming toward me. The little girl was older than I had first thought and I recognized her as having primordial dwarfism. She was such a cutie that I too started wondering what she did to get on the naughty list. “There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Ro 3:22b-23 NIV)

Evangelism 101

Our library was one of 40 locations across the nation to host a traveling exhibit that celebrates the 400^th anniversary of the translation and publication of the King James Bible. This week I attended one of two sessions with professor and author Leland Ryken, a scholar and national expert on the KJV. We were seated together closely at tables and behind me was a stoic, but attractive and smartly dressed woman in her 60’s. At her table sat one of the local pastors who asked her where she went to church. “Oh, I don’t go to church.” Making a smooth transition he told her their church doors were always open and she was welcome to visit them. I turned around in my seat and joked with the pastor about overhearing his snippet of evangelism. I suppose the woman could have been library patron, or simply someone who considers the KJV Bible to be great literature. However, I cannot wrap my head around anyone attending a lecture, and apparently having some sort of relationship with the KJV, and yet not going to church.

First Responders

In reporting on the Sandy Hook elementary school shooting one TV reporter described the first responders as being “trained to be heroes.” My thoughts turned to our training as believers. While I don’t think we are training to be heroes, I do wonder how many of us would consider ourselves to be first responders. For instance, if someone wants to know more about Jesus, do we recommend that they go see the preacher? Or when someone is ill do we tell them they need to schedule a time with the elders to be prayed over? The Apostle Paul gave this charge to Timothy: “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Tim 4:2 NIV)