Bizarre Bizarro

A recent Bizarro comic strip titled Divine Intervention depicts God as downcast, sitting on a heavenly cloud surrounded by three angels.

One angel places a consoling arm around God’s shoulder and a comforting hand on his arm. Another angel-scribe reads from a piece of paper and the dialog bubble reads, “…and then there was the weekend bender when you reached rock bottom and created man.”

The take-a-away for the readers is:

·       God drinks

·       God can’t remember

·       God not only makes mistakes, but grieves over his lapse in judgment

·       God hits rock bottom

·       This is only one in a long of mistakes that God has made

·       Angels keep a scorecard on God

·       A function of angels is to console God and remind him of his errors

·       Angels are superior to God because they don’t lose control

I’ve asked my local newspaper publisher to consider dropping the syndicated comic strip. It’s not merely offensive to believers, but it mocks God. “How long will the enemy mock you, O God? Will the foe revile your name forever?” (Psalms 74:10 NIV)

Firmness Test

A few days ago we had a new cement driveway poured and after less than eight hours Bill wanted to see if it had cured enough to walk on so he stepped onto the green cement. Now this is not like sticking a toothpick into a cake to see if it is done, or testing in an inconspicuous place. This was more like pushing in the middle of the cake to see if it would spring back.

The next morning as I looked over the driveway there were the outlines of two footprints. Fortunately for Bill the outlines are only in the film on the surface and will eventually wear off, but had the cement not been set enough, it would have been like Bigfoot in a bakery.

“Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.” (Proverbs 4:26-27 NIV)

Picking and Choosing

A recent discussion on baptism ended with the speaker saying, “Although I don’t have Biblical evidence to back up my thoughts, it’s my personal opinion that there will be some people in heaven who have not been baptized.” I’ve really struggled with his comment because it seems to water down baptism and put it in the area of personal choice. Peter is very clear, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” (Acts 2:38-39 NIV) If we set aside baptism as part of forgiveness of sins, can we also set aside repentance?  I can’t imagine anyone saying, ‘It’s my personal opinion that there will be some people in heaven who have not repented.’

The Price of Contrition

Celebrity chef Paula Deen offered an apology for using racial slurs in the past. She admits to using hurtful language and in a video apology states, “I’m begging for your forgiveness. Please forgive me.” Although her brand has been dropped by a couple of sponsors, many of her fans are standing by her with the attitude that ‘we all make mistakes’.

Discussing the situation during a TV news segment a guest commentator questioned the sincerity of Deen’s apology. He suggested that in order for her to really show contrition, she should donate the proceeds of one of her cook books to some group that furthers the cause of racial diversity.

Unfortunately many of us are just like the commentator when we put stipulations and price tags on forgiveness. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Eph 4:32 NIV)

The Spirit Within

The reality show called Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition follows an overweight person for a year and documents their struggle and their success with losing weight. One episode is of a 21 year-old woman who has been overweight all her life and started the program weighing in at 369 pounds. “I’ve always asked God to just someday let me see what it feels like to be skinny. The person I really am, the one on the inside is trapped in this body.” Although the situation itself is not funny, I have to laugh when I imagine what the indwelling Holy Spirit might say, ‘Just someday let me see what it feels like to be righteous and holy. The Person I really am, the One on the inside is trapped in this body.’

Storm Warning

Some people who thought they could ride out a category 1 hurricane didn’t heed evacuation warnings. One man who suffered loss tried to blame the weather service for his failing to take action by saying, “No way was this a Category 1!” I can imagine those who fail to respond to the warnings of the Second Coming will also be looking for someone to blame. “Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, ‘Peace and safety,’ destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.” (1 Thess 5:1-3 NIV)

Weekly Visitation

A City Councilman just bought a new home in another area of town and he will no longer live in the district to which he was elected. According to the City Charter he must vacate his seat if he moves out of his district, however, his current term doesn’t expire until next year and he desperately wants to hang onto the seat. One of his excuses for not changing his address officially is that he is still doing repairs on the new house. If the conversation on the street is correct, say he’d like to ‘live’ at his old residence during the week and ‘visit’ his wife and five children on the weekend. I’m indignant. He swore to uphold the Charter, which he is now trying to manipulate, and his in-action to vacate the seat while continuing to draw a salary borders on fraud. Hmmm. Not much different than believers who want to keep their feet in both worlds. They accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior and think they can just visit Him on weekends.

The Bride of Christ

I listened to the 40-something speaker decry the traditional church in favor of a home-based church model. He described his previous experience as being all encompassing – he was the right hand man to the preacher and the go-to-guy for everything going on in the church. Disillusioned, discouraged, and spiritually drained he walked away from the mega-church and for four years wandered in the wilderness. With some pushing and prodding from friends he discovered an outreach church in another State, which he now describes as the ‘real’ church. No one would doubt his enthusiasm for the Lord’s work, but his anger with the organized church permeated his presentation.

 As he denounced the traditional church, some in the audience nodded in agreement as they reflected on the faults within their own church. I on the other hand, wanted to stand up and say, ‘Wait a minute…The traditional church has a few warts, but we are still the body of Christ too!’

 

Certainly people can throw rotten tomatoes at the established church if they so desire, but it gives me the image of the Bride of Christ being pelted with criticism as she walks down the aisle to meet her Groom.

Recall

The June 4, 2013 edition of the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel has an article written by reporter Charles Ashby on the recall effort against Senator John Morse. At issue is the work Morse has done to push on the passage of tougher gun-control laws. In the article Mores’ detractors are charging that he is not the same person he was when he was elected. The article states, “Mores, however, said it wasn’t him who changed, but the circumstances.” Interesting deflection. Unfortunately that same attitude weaves its way into the body of believers when we bend to the circumstances in today’s society. However, Paul reminds us of why we need to be alert and mature, “Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming.” (Eph 4:14 NIV)

Following Directions

Last week I served as the chairman of the Election Credentials Committee for my local electric association. We go to great lengths to ensure the election process will withstand any and all scrutiny, but unfortunately every year a few members get incensed when their ballot is rejected because they failed to follow voting requirements.

One member verbally assaulted a Customer Service Representative when she told him his ballot could not be dropped off, but rather had to be mailed, or personally hand delivered to the meeting. He became irate and described the ballot in explicit terms telling her where she could put it.

Another member was highly agitated because we wouldn’t accept his ballot after the polls had closed.

And then there were the argumentative people who showed up with multiple ballots that they wanted to submit for friends and family.

It’s interesting how we always want to blame others for our failure to follow directions. As believers we too have some instructions to follow, but you can bet that when the Lord returns there are going to be those who will want to argue with Him.

Discovery

In the late 1990’s I picked up a new, in the box, electronic game at the thrift store. Although we never had the instructions to the game, we could sort of play one of the concentration games with either one or two players.  Over the years the toy would rise to the top of the toy box and then once again settle to the bottom. Just the other day seven year-old Lydia was reading one of her daddy’s old books and the instructions sheet to the electronic game fell to the floor. What a surprise. We didn’t even know there was an instruction sheet, much less that it was missing. Chuckling we read directions to one another and discovered which buttons to push in order to play a host of different games. “So this is how it works! Well now, this game is worth something. Check this out, this is really cool.” I can see this same scenario being played out with our Bibles. Some of us are content to learn just a little portion of Scripture here and there, but when we do really get into the Word and read the instructions we’re amazed by what we discover.

Makeover

There are a variety of television reality shows that focus on transformations – people, houses, restaurants. Recently I read that a local spa is taking contest applications for a ‘Body and Soul Makeover’ and I have to tell you I’m feeling a little indignant on behalf of the Spirit. But on second thought, maybe the Spirit and those in the heavenly realms are getting a good laugh at the idea that a spa massage and soothing music can actually makeover the soul. “For you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.”  (1 Peter 2:25 NIV)

Acquisitions

At a writer’s conference I discussed a book idea with an acquisitions editor of a Christian publishing house. Although my concept didn’t fit with their current needs, the editor strongly encouraged me to submit to the secular, rather than the Christian market. He reasoned that religious writing meant to hold the church accountable did not have an audience. Curious, I brought up Paul as an example. Paul did not mince words, putting both individuals and churches on notice and exposing their sins – sexual immorality, false idols, impurity, just to name a few. I was flabbergasted by the editor’s response, “Yes, but Paul was in prison so he could say whatever he wanted to say. He wouldn’t lose his job. Preachers [today] won’t preach tough stuff, because they would lose their jobs.” If in fact this editor knows what he is talking about, our pulpit or ministry search committees need to take another look at their acquisitions.

Back to the Basics

At a recent writer’s conference I signed up for a fifteen minute appointment with a technology specialist to talk about social media. I admitted that I have never used Facebook because of all the horror stories, but I proudly proclaimed I was just beginning my 7^th year of blogging.  

 With a grin he said “Well, that’s good. At least you aren’t afraid of blogging.” He went to the Christian Ear blog site and, as though it were somehow inferior, he said, “Oh. You’re not on Blogger, you’re on Blog spot.” It appears my blog is in the wrong neighborhood.

He preceded to quickly diagnosis some of my blog’s aliments by telling me my titles were not catchy enough and the paragraphs were too long. Huh? “You should never write a paragraph over four sentences long and a one sentence paragraph is acceptable. You need more white space around your paragraphs and a photograph of yourself.” Apparently people are more attracted to short thoughts that will fit on their cell phones and they want to see who is doing the writing.

 “Have you ever read a book on blogging?” Well of course I did…seven years ago.

It appears I need re-education in blogging, Twitter...and Facebook.

Spiritually speaking, I suppose one could find themselves in a similar predicament if they hadn’t picked up their Bible in seven years.

Specializing

While attending a recent Christian Writer’s Conference we were reminded that the publishing industry is changing rapidly because of eBooks, blogs and Twitter. Where authors once had publishing houses and editors to help them through the maze of getting published, today’s writers must take on more responsibility for marketing, promotion and selling their own books. The angst between authors and publishers is at a heightened level with authors saying, “What am I paying you for if I have to do all the work myself?” and publishers saying, “We can no longer afford to take a risk on an unproven author or books that may not sell.” I see something similar happening in the church. Years ago the preacher seemed to do everything with help from a few leaders, but then the focus moved to having a paid staff who specialized in youth, seniors and singles. Many of us then abdicated our serving to staff because after all, aren’t we paying them to serve?

Evangelism 101

I took my grandkids to play at a family entertainment center where they made friends with five-year-old Shaylee, who could be overheard telling her grandma, “I’m really having fun with my two new best friends.” About an hour later seven year-old Lydia came to me downcast saying, “I don’t think I like Shaylee anymore. She told me that she didn’t have to love everyone if she didn’t want to.” I know exactly how Lydia feels. There are times when, even as adults, our attempts at witnessing, evangelism, and fellowship get rebuffed simply because we’ve applied the Lord’s commands to the wrong audience. Jesus was speaking to his disciples when He said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35 NIV)

Leading By Example

My friend David is a PK (preacher’s kid) who in now in his 70’s. One Sunday during the invitation when he was nine years-old his friend sitting next to him went forward. David, who wasn’t going to be left behind, followed his friend up the aisle to the altar where he too made the confession of faith. The following week his dad was satisfied with David’s understanding of accepting Christ and he proceeded to be baptized. A life-long believer, David was recently selected to serve as an elder in his current church. However, before officially taking on the position as elder David surprised the congregation by going forward to be re-baptized. “It was just something that I needed to do. It’s always been in the back of my mind that my motivation for going forward the first time was because I was following my friend.” I have to smile when I think that David is once again following his Friend.

Whatever You Do

The church group Care Givers was discussing ideas on what they could do to support a fellow believer who was critically ill when someone mentioned that people could donate blood. Whipping her head around one woman said, “What did you say? Really, we can donate blood? I’d rather do that than cook a meal any day!” You’ve got to love it. I can only imagine the reaction if asked to take a meal to a shut in and one responded, ‘I’ll donate a pint.’ Paul reminds us, “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)

Likability

In giving her report on the local Prison Ministry, Ms. Clair congratulated our small congregation on supplying 100 dozen homemade cookies for the ministry’s yearly retreat. She went on to explain that at the end of the retreat each participating inmate was given a small bag of cookies and they were instructed to give them to someone they disliked. The implications of this unique lesson were formulating in my mind when she continued, “The majority of the bagged cookies were give to a prison guard that most of the inmates don’t like.” I have to wonder if I would have had the same courage displayed by these men if I were asked to do something similar in the work place, the church environment, or in social circles. “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:27-28 NIV)

Life Support

The longer a blog is in existence and as reader activity increases, the more susceptible that blog is to SPAM. Interestingly the Spammers I hear from are getting more sophisticated and are now using a more conversational tone in order to get me to link to their website. One recent blog comment that came in read, “And I actually do have some questions for you if it's allright. Is it just me or does it appear like some of these comments appear as if they are coming from brain dead folks?” I had to smile because Steve Corey is the only person who consistently comments on my blog. People of the world are easily confused when they encounter believers. They assume we are brain dead, when in reality we’re simply on Spiritual Life support.

Expiration Date

Last Sunday my friend Harry came to church sporting a red boutonniere, which was in recognition of his 97^th Birthday. While we talked about his good health and longevity he said, “I’ll tell you something better than that…I just got my driver’s license renewed and now I can drive until I’m 102!” I had to laugh. Most of our elderly folks are worried that someone will take away their car keys and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) just handed Harry the keys to heaven on earth. “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12 NIV)

As One Escaping

The media coverage on the tornado that struck Moore, OK is riveting. Homes leveled, cars totaled and personal possessions strewn for miles. Many who emerge from storm shelters will have escaped with only the clothes on their backs. Translating the images into a spiritual context gives me a vivid picture of what takes place when our earthly works are tested. “If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames.” (1 Cor 3:14-15 NIV)

Endorsements

The credentials for a keynote speaker at my Christian writer’s conference included being a pastor for a couple of years, a poet, and published author of more than 20 books. During his address he held up a book of another poet and asked how many knew of the author. It appeared that very few in the audience were acquainted with her work, so he encouraged us to read her wonderful books adding, “…She is a lesbian who recently lost her partner.” He then proceeded to read one of her poems to the audience. After the presentation I discussed my dismay with friends and they were quick to defend the speaker by pointing out that he is a very compassionate man. Their insinuation was that compassion can be demonstrated by being inclusive and nonjudgmental. Point taken. However, I consider my preacher to be a compassionate person, but I guarantee that neither he, nor our church leaders, would ever promote a book of poetry written by a lesbian, regardless of how well it is written.

Be Alert

I recently attended a Christian Writer’s Conference where the Director would break out in prayer during announcements, introduction of speakers...and during technical difficulties. No doubt she has a personal habit of always talking to God, but I have to tell you that after three and a half days of being in the audience I felt like a bobble-head. I couldn’t always tell whether she was taking to the group, or talking to God. Once I had my head bowed reverently when my friend Betty poked me in the ribs and said with a chuckle, “She’s done praying.” On other occasions I thought I was listening to instructions for the day, the Director would end her comments saying, “And all God’s people said…” I have to laugh when I think of God watching the spectacle of the Director and me as we both applied Paul’s instructions on prayer. The Director, praying on all occasions with all kinds of prayers…and then there I was with my eyes open and alert because I couldn’t tell her prayer from an announcement. “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.” (Eph 6:18 NIV)

Memorial Day

A video clip for the promotion of AMC’s War Heroes Marathon, which will be televised today, caught my attention. The movie appeared to be set in the Viet Nam era with actor Sean Penn saying, “Yea though I walk through the valley of evil, I shall fear no death.” I’m not one for tampering with Scripture, but I made a connection with this twist on the Lord’s Prayer. Today we honor those who, in service to our country, did not fear death. “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” (1 Cor 15:55 NIV)

One Flesh

One of the many issues the Pharisees tested Jesus on was lawful divorce. Jesus refreshed their memory that God made us male and female and when we are united in marriage we become one flesh. “So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.” (Matthew 19:6 NIV) I find it’s interesting that the Lord is using the collective ‘let man not separate’, but yet it appears that with the recognition of civil unions man has indeed separated what God has joined together.

And You Call Yourself

As Christians our words and actions are, and should be, under scrutiny. Unfortunately when non-believers and fellow believers alike don’t like what they see or hear they make the charge, ‘And they call themselves a Christian’. Usually when we hear such an accusation we shrug our shoulders and change the subject. Rarely do we come to the defense of that Christian. We seem to forget that all believers are entitled to wear the name Christian because we have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior; the only disqualifier is if we reject Christ. You have to admit though that the accusatory phrase often stifles our witness. I’m now wondering…are we missing an effective tool against liberal tolerance and anti-American sentiments. Maybe in disgust we should start the mantra, “And you call yourself an American.”

Coming Soon

One of our church families, like many across the US, is going through foreclosure. Because there was only four days between the formal foreclosure notice and the sale of the property, an urgent prayer request was sent out about their immediate needs. The request also included the caveat, “The foreclosure wasn’t a surprise; it was how soon it was taking place.” It’s interesting that many of us are impatient for the Lord’s return and we wonder what is taking so long. And then there are others of us who will be surprised that His coming came so soon. “You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” (Luke 12:40 NIV)

Endearing

We hear a lot about people who are only one paycheck away from being homeless because they live from paycheck to paycheck. In some cases there are extenuating circumstances, but often the situation can be traced back to financial mismanagement. I can’t help but think about the Parable of the Shrewd Manager who, because of mismanagement, lost his job and was likely on the verge of homelessness. Calculating his future the manager evaluated his work qualifications, “I’m not strong enough to dig, and I’m ashamed to beg.” (Luke 16:3b NIV). Being credited with shrewdness, he endeared himself to his master’s debtors so that when he was jobless he would still be welcomed into their homes. I wonder if some of today’s mis-managers could avoid the homeless title if they too evaluated their options and then practiced endearing themselves to others.

Are We Friendly?

Recently when I walked Charlie, the family dog, a fellow dog owner cautioned me from a distance, “My dog is not friendly. We need to keep them away from each other.” I appreciated the warning and we took a wide breadth as we passed one another. It was a good lesson for me and now before I let Charlie get nose to nose with another dog I ask the owner, ‘Are we friendly?’ People who church-shop often measure a congregation on the perceived friendliness. Sadly, every church fellowship has at least one or two grouches who seem to bring down the score for the entire fellowship of believers. “An unfriendly man pursues selfish ends; he defies all sound judgment.”  (Proverbs 18:1 NIV)

Not My Thing

As though she were talking about a simple outing, the mother of two young daughters told me, “I know my husband and I should go to church, but the girls go with grandma and it’s a special time for them. It’s their thing to do. When church is over they go out for lunch and I just don’t want to take anything away from grandma.” Intimating that the grandmother’s pleasure would somehow be taken away if the rest of the family tagged along is an interesting excuse. I was reminded of two men who were invited to follow Jesus. One wanted time to go bury his father who apparently had not yet died and the other wanted to go home and say good-by to his family. Jesus reminds us that there is a cost to following him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:62 NIV)

Prayer Chain

I received a generic email prayer request which began with the qualifier, “Need to keep this Prayer going. Send it to others and all your friends.” I think the originator may be confusing a prayer chain request with a chain letter request. Certainly email has enhanced the administration of church prayer chains, but I’m not so sure it qualifies as an effective tool for keeping a prayer going. Jesus taught the disciples to pray by giving them the Lord’s Prayer as a model and thankfully generations of Sunday school teachers have helped us commit the prayer to memory and perfected the right way to keep a prayer going.

Righteousness

Recently a recycling advocate was quoted in the newspaper, “I recycle my toothbrush – only the handles, of course….I also recycle dryer lint. That can actually go into compost.” I had to laugh when I imagined her garden plants strangling on lint compost permeated with fabric softener. It’s interesting that we are all vulnerable to self-righteousness when it comes to our personal activities or interests. Jesus pointed out that the Pharisees even took tithing to a whole new level by applying the practice to their spices. “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.” (Matt 23:23 NIV)

Eternity is Waiting

Found guilty of killing her former boyfriend, Jodi Arias is now awaiting sentencing of either life in prison or death. During the trial, drama and lies permeated her testimony. Immediately after the verdict Ms. Arias continued the media spin by doing an interview saying she would prefer death to living the rest of her natural life in one place. She put a spiritual connotation on her situation by intimating that the eternal was a better option than prison. “Death is the ultimate freedom…I’d rather have that freedom sooner than later.” I have to wonder if she has really given thought to freedom…eternal life and eternal death. Certainly life in prison would be a miserable existence, but anyone who fails to get their spiritual ducks in a row may regret the rush to eternity. Arias’ thoughts are a stark contrast to Paul “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.” (Phil 1:21-24 NIV)

Plug It In

In my Toastmasters Club members assume different roles during our meetings – Toastmaster, Table Topics Master, Evaluator, etc. Recently one elected officer decided it would be better to pre-assign members to positions and if you couldn’t attend a meeting you were to find your own replacement. On the religious landscape we have something similar with programs designed to evaluate talents and then plug you into an area of service in the church. While scheduling others may get the job done, it really does take both the individual and God out of the decision making equation. I have to laugh when I think what it would have been like had the early church had the opportunity to give Paul his Gospel assignment. Left up to the disciples Paul might likely have remained blind and his mission field confined to Damascus and the Jews on Straight Street. Thankfully Paul was sent to all of us. “…This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel.” (Acts 9:15b NIV)

Self-Enforcer

A recent letter to the editor complained about people being ignorant of the law pertaining to operating a motor vehicle. “I wonder how many people know that it is against the law to pass on the [right] shoulder.” I have to laugh because to get a driver’s licenses everyone had to take a test and they know it’s illegal to pass on the shoulder…they just chose to ignore the law. We believers do the same thing when we knowingly disobey God’s commands. However, we who strive to be obedient to the WORD are no different than our worldly counterparts when we see someone breaking the Lord’s commands. The first thing that comes to mind is, “Where are the patrolmen when you need them?”

Leading a Rebellion

I’ve noticed that radical Islamic clerics will stir up their followers, but they themselves won’t get their hands dirty by personally getting involved in the upheaval and unrest. Last week there was a similar situation when a retired military veteran tried to get others to show up at the local court house to support a veteran and his vicious dog that were on trial. Interestingly, not one veteran showed up, not even the guy who tried to rally the troops. Jesus said that he would be betrayed by the chief priests and the teachers of the law and they would condemn him to death. Not wanting to soil their hands they turned Him over to, “…the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged and crucified.”  (Matt 21:19a NIV)

A Guy Thing

Who can resist popping plastic bubble wrap? Recently Bill took out a package of salad from the refrigerator and unable to resist the temptation that was right in front of him, he put the bag between his hands and popped the air-filled package. Exploding from the pressure the bag spewed salad greens throughout the refrigerator and all over the floor. It appears that being 65 years-old does not dim a man’s excitement for a mini-explosion. I’m thinking our church leadership programs should be offering re-fresher classes from the book of Proverbs, which states, “…for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young.” (Proverbs 1:2-4 NIV)

Imperfect

A few months ago I received an email from a City Council colleague saying that during our acquaintance he felt I was always lighting fires, criticizing and nitpicking. His remedy was that I should get off my high horse, because, “…none of us are perfect, including you!” Anytime a believer stands firm in their belief, tries to do what is right, and speaks the truth, he becomes an easy target for others. So often our taking the high road is viewed as being on a high horse. It seems to me that one common denominator of such attacks is the charge, ‘you think you’re so perfect’. One day, when we are in the presence of the Lord, we will be perfect. In the meantime, “It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.” (Psalm 18:32 NIV)

Hard Stuff

I cringe when I hear someone speak the truth of the WORD, followed by an apologetic caveat, “This is hard stuff. This is one of those teachings in the Bible that is just hard.” No doubt the sentiment is meant to convey empathy, but what many hear is, ‘I know you may struggle with what the Bible tells you to do, but just do the best that you can.’ I’m reminded of Jesus teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum when the topic was eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of Man. “On hearing it, many of his disciples said, ‘This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?’” (John 6:60 NIV) Sadly, this was a turning-back moment for many of Jesus’ disciples. If the Scriptures were difficult to understand, accept and apply, Jesus would not have asked us to take his yoke and learn, “For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matt 11:30 NIV)

The Hand

Glaucoma has left my 60 year-old cousin blind in one eye. Unfortunately last week he had to have surgery on his good eye and there were complications. He is now in danger of losing his eyesight and he’s scared to death. I can imagine Paul and Elymas (the sorcerer) having similar emotions when they were blinded (Acts 9:9, 13:11). After being blinded Paul’s companions led him by the hand to Damascus, while Elymas groped about seeking someone to lead him by the hand. We know that physically and spiritually Jesus is the One who opens the eyes of the blind, but I’m not sure that we recognize that we too have a role to play amongst the blind. Those who are groping about seeking someone to lead them may be in need of our hand. “The LORD gives sight to the blind, the LORD lifts up those who are bowed down, the LORD loves the righteous.” (Psalm 146:8 NIV)

Renouncing

Purporting 30 years in Christian ministry a man in the community publically renounced his faith in a newspaper article. My once-saved, always-saved friends concluded that he was never saved in the first place, while a mainstream liberal denomination member swung in the opposite direction by tipping her hat to the Christian-turned-humanist for, “…reminding us that our country was founded on religious freedom, freedom to practice any religion or no religion.”  Obviously the liberal is more enamored with freedom in religion than she is with freedom in Christ. Although the text is specifically referring to Judas Iscariot, I’m convinced it is applicable to anyone who accepts and then renounces the Lord.  Jesus said, “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me. The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.” (Matthew 26:23-24 NIV)

Dust Off

The Montrose Daily Press (4-26-13) published a guest commentary written by Ron Black on the secular and religious fabric of America. Mr. Black, an active Christian minister and evangelist for 30 years, renounced his faith saying, “As to your unspoken question, no, I did not lose my faith as a born-again Christian. I gave it up purposely. The motivation that drove me into ministry is the same that drove me out.” Interestingly, he claims to believe in God, but as a humanist. By his own admission Mr. Black has not wondered away, nor is he lost. It seems to me that with his declaration and rejection of Christ he has relieved believers of the obligation to pray for him. I now have a sense of how the disciples must have felt when they shook the dust off their feet as they left a home or a town that rejected their message. “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town. I tell you the truth, it will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.” (Matt 10:14-15 NIV)

What Next?

A few weeks ago I unhappily had to replace my three-year old washing machine because a bearing had gone out of the motor. Our nine-month old refrigerator is scheduled for its third service call to replace defective parts. A few days ago the lifetime warranted furnace died and it will take two weeks to get in the part. I’m now keeping a suspicious eye on the dishwasher. One repairman told me that today most appliances have a life expectancy of only about three years. In warning about greed Jesus noted that treasures on earth are destroyed by moth and rust. Boy, wouldn’t I just love to have an appliance around long enough for it to succumb to moth or rust! “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)

Climbing the Ladder of Success

In today’s society we feel that we step up and down the ladder of success by our own volition and we are seldom prepared for the fact that someone may come along and knock the ladder out from under us. Recently I saw a friend’s career came to an abrupt end, not because he was fired or demoted, but his job was simply eliminated. He then had to make a decision of whether to take the offer of a lesser position in the same company, to retire, or to seek employment elsewhere. For the believer, reevaluating and reinventing a career path has the added dimension of the Lord’s oversight. We know that God always has our best interest at heart, but sometimes our idea of what is best may not pass His scrutiny. “All a man’s ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD. Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” (Proverbs 16:2-3 NIV)

Ready, Aim, Fire

Because of the recent terrorist attack in Boston I continue to contemplate gun-control issues. Recalling Vice President Biden’s suggestion to his wife that, (paraphrase) ‘if a bad guy is around, just shoot a shotgun into the air and help will arrive’ is mind boggling. I was reminded of young David’s willingness to fight Goliath and Saul cautioning, “You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him; you are only a boy, and he has been a fighting man from his youth.” (1 Samuel 17:33 NIV) Goliath came at David armed with a sword, a spear and a javelin, but David was armed with the Lord, a sling and five smooth stones. Thankfully David aimed at Goliath’s head rather than shooting the stones into the air on a wing and a prayer that he could rally the men of Israel and Judah to come to his aid.

Kibitzing

We’ve all experienced going to the movies and being disturbed by people who are carrying on a conversation at various times during the movie. The culprits are either oblivious, or just don’t care that they are disturbing others. Glaring and shushing them is seldom very effective…especially if they are adults. Much to my chagrin the same thing happens in church. Fellowship and visiting continues even though announcements have begun, pew partners engage in conversations while congregational singing is going on, and my personal grievance is with people kibitzing during communion. All of the elements for the communion time – the song selection, prepared meditation, prayer, serving the emblems - are designed to focus the worshipper’s attention on the Lord. Because of the insensitivity of some, moments of meditation and reflection are often shattered and stolen from worshippers. I think Paul’s instructions to the early church concerning talking in tongues and orderly worship could be applicable to us today. “If anyone speaks in a tongue, two—or at the most three—should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret. If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and God.” (1 Cor 14:27-28 NIV)

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)