Forced to Carry the Cross

As Jesus was led away to be crucified the soldiers forced Simon from Cyrene to carry His cross. It occurs to me that we believers sometimes put our own spiritual expectations on others and in essence try to force them to carry a cross that is not theirs to carry.  Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Matt 16:24 NIV).

Reputation

A man wrote a letter-to-the-editor in which he said, “Years of problematic government affairs has reached afar and spread uncertainty. While preparing this area to welcome new business investments, we must prioritize efforts and reinstate quality and credibility.” In a nutshell the man is blaming local government affairs for our reputation across the state as being a dysfunctional community and he feels new business investments will not be drawn to the community because of our lack of credibility. I’m reminded of the reputations of Nazareth and Galilee. Speaking to Philip, Nathanael said, “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there” (John 1:46 NIV)? In another situation the Pharisees scolded Nicodemus, “Are you from Galilee, too? Look into it, and you will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee” (John7:52 NIV). Similar to thinking our community defines us, many believers want to let the reputation of their church define them.

Diet Over Devotion to Christ

In a recent letter-to-the-editor a man put his own spin on Lent and suggested that those who abstain from animal foods during Lent should continue on after the 40 days of Lent and make “vegan” a lifestyle choice. He said, “But meat-free Lent is much more than a symbol of religious devotion to Christ. It helps reduce the risk of chronic disease, environmental degradation, and animal abuse.” Paul reminds believers, “Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: “Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!”? These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self–imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence” (Col 2:20-23 NIV).

Take Him at His Word

We’ve all been in situations where we’re not really sure about something someone has told us, but we have no reason to doubt them, so we take them at their word. When Jesus went to Galilee the Galileans were more interested in miraculous signs and wonders than they were in believing in Him. At that time a certain royal official, whose son was near death in the town of Capernaum about 20 miles away, begged Jesus to come and heal him. Jesus replied, “You may go. Your son will live.” The man took Jesus at his word and departed” (John 4:50 NIV). Today many of us are like the Galileans…rather than taking Jesus at his word, were looking for miraculous signs and wonders.

Send Someone

We all have friends or loved ones who have no relationship with the Lord. While our prayer is for their salvation, we often ask the Lord to send someone into their life who can influence their spiritual thinking. I’m reminded of the “Rich Man and Lazarus.” Both men died and the rich man went to hell, while Lazarus went to the side of Father Abraham. A great chasm separated them and the rich man was in agony and fire with no one to comfort him. The rich man said to Abraham, “Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father’s house, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment” (Luke 16:27-28 NIV). I have to admit that I too fall back on asking God to send someone…when what I really should be asking is for God to send His Spirit.

Preparation

Occasionally worshipers will complain about their seating. From their vantage point they can’t hear or see well, the temperature is either too hot or too cold, and the chairs are not as comfortable as those in another location. I once suggested to a friend that she arrive earlier and she could have a seat more to her liking. She said, “But I can’t get around any earlier.” It strikes me that the invalid at the pool at Bethesda might have had a similar thought process. The man had been an invalid for 38 years and Jesus asked him if he wanted to get well. “Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me” (John 5:7 NIV). I’m reminded of those in Scripture who would do anything, and risk everything, to be healed…their preparations and perseverance were rewarded — the woman with an issue of blood, the man lowered through the roof and the synagogue ruler Jairus pleading for the life of his child.

Speaking the Same Language

One of my church visits included visiting a Spanish speaking church that was scheduled to begin at 11:30 a.m. I don’t speak Spanish, but the temporary sign written in Spanish on the locked front door had an apparent time change to 12:15. Thank goodness Arabic numerals are universal and 12:15 doesn’t come in Spanish and English. John tells us that love also has universal properties that transcends cultures and language barriers, “Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth” (1 John 3:18 NIV).

Stupid Criminals

My cousin Laura was working in the church foyer when a man came in asking for a food box. The secretary made a copy of the man’s driver’s license, gave him a food box and he left the building talking on his cell phone. Laura though it strange that he could afford a Galaxy S6 phone, but yet needed food assistance. Unfortunately for Laura it was her phone walking out the door. Just goes to prove that even stupid criminals go to church and leave a copy of their driver’s license with the secretary. “Even as he walks along the road, the fool lacks sense and shows everyone how stupid he is” (Ecc 10:3 NIV).

Temptation

When my weight plateaued while dieting I pulled out all the tricks found in a dieter’s toolbox. One maneuver was asking for a to-go-box from a restaurant to bring part of my meal home. However, it recently occurred to me that I should ask for a carryout before my meal arrives so that when I’m served I can box up half of it and remove some of the temptation from my plate. It’s not lost on me that after 40 days in the wilderness Jesus was hungry and the devil used bread as a temptation. For some of us our mealtime blessing should include what Jesus said to the devil, “It is written: ‘Man does not live by bread alone’” (Luke 4:4 NIV).

Downcast

Because of the actions of one man, and the in-action of his supervisors, the reputation of a local organization has been tarnished. The news and social media exploded with the details and while most comments reveal disgust, there are a few that expressed grief and sympathy. However, the sympathy is not for the offender, or those who turned a blind eye, but rather for the families and current employees who are left to deal with the fallout. One man told me, “It wasn’t their fault and they are having a hard time holding their heads up.” No doubt some of those who are hanging their heads are believers. Paul would tell them, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God” (2 Cor 1:3-4).

True Witness

Recently a decade long situation of hazing and intimidation within a local organization came to light. While most people are disgusted and angry, there are a few who defend the employees and attest to their good character. The incidents revealed in a court document was reported on by three news media outlets, all of whom had the same basic story. However, one woman on social media protested, “Don’t believe all that you read.” On the religious landscape we hear something similar when people want to negate the Word of God. The Gospels, written by four different men, testify that Jesus is the Son of God and yet those who are anti-Christ would tell us not to believe everything we read. “A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false witness tells lies” (Proverbs 12:17 NIV).

Steps

I have Windows 10 on my new computer and in some instances the program calls for additional steps that weren’t needed in previous versions. Rather than making the program more user friendly, I’m having to retrace steps and go in and out of folders trying to figure out where I am and how I got there. Something similar can happen with the Word of God. A children’s Bible is easy to follow and with fewer concepts needed for a beginner’s Christian walk. However, when you upgrade to a study Bible there are more verses to connect, greater spiritual depth and additional steps required. Eventually I may learn Windows 10, but Paul reminds me that as a Christian there are always more steps to be taken, “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit” (Gal 5:25 NIV).

Style

My friend Betty and I discussed our different writing styles and where I write more factually, her writing leans more toward the creative side. What we read takes a similar course in that I like news and she prefers poems and inspirational. I suspect when we read the Bible there is a similar pattern and she is edified with the feel-good, heart-felt elements of Scripture and I feel spiritually fed from the concrete thou shalt and shalt not passages. In spite of a believers preferred style of reading or writing, Paul’s charge to Timothy is applicable to everyone, “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim3:14 NIV).

Lean on Me

We have a number of older folks coming to church with canes and behind walkers. Some of them seem embarrassed, angry and uncomfortable because they are forced to use such stabilizers, while others have grown to accept their added appendage. No doubt many of these saints think others see only their crutch and physical frailty. The writer of Hebrews paints a very different picture of aging faith, “By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons, and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff” (Heb 11:21 NIV).

Empty Calories

Foods heavy in fats and sugars that provide more calories than nutrients are referred to as empty calories. On the religious landscape the writer of Hebrews cautioned against spiritually empty calories found in the ceremonial foods of the Aaronic priesthood and sacrifices. “Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings. It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace, not by ceremonial foods, which are of no value to those who eat them. We have an altar from which those who minister at the tabernacle have no right to eat” (Heb 13:9-10 NIV).

Undeterred

Fire codes require public buildings to have a posted notice of the maximum occupancy and my church has an occupancy of 265. When Jesus preached to the people in Capernaum the fire marshal was nowhere to be seen and the room was so packed there wasn’t even standing room outside the door. A maximum occupancy however didn’t deter the friends of a paralytic who simply cut a hole in the roof and lowered the paralyzed man down to Jesus. Sadly, many of us allow the size of a crowd, obedience to a man-made regulation, or a lack of faith keep us from boldly approaching the Lord…not only for ourselves, but also on behalf of others. “When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son your sins are forgiven”” (Mark 2:5 NIV).

Wearing the Name Christian

The editor of our local paper turned his soapbox into a pulpit when he wrote in a recent editorial, “It amazes me. So much in our community is willing to call itself “Christian,” yet so few want to abide by the very Christian principal of love and understanding…and equally important…forgiveness.” He then calls on the religious community to have a city-wide sermon series on forgiveness. It’s bad enough when people feel they are qualified to judge people of faith, but I think we should draw the line at letting them try to script our sermons. Jesus said, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me” (Matt 5:11 NIV).

Amen

The term “amen” is an affirmation used at the end of a prayer, or used to express agreement. From the pulpit I continue to hear pastors and speakers asking their audience to amen their statements. In their mind they may feel they have made a profound spiritual statement, however, it is presumptuous on their part to ask for an endorsement. While discussing speaking in tongues Paul makes it clear that it is the listener who determines whether or not they are edified and can express agreement in what is said. “If you are praising God with your spirit, how can one who finds himself among those who do not understand say “Amen” to your thanksgiving, since he does not know what you are saying? You may be giving thanks well enough, but the other man is not edified” (1 Cor 14:16-17 NIV).

Preparedness

A major winter storm, with a predicted two feet of snow, is poised to hit Washington DC this weekend. As a weatherman discussed the nor’easter with the TV anchor he said, “People are stocking up on food…but what are they going to do with all that food when the power goes out and there’s no way to cook.” It is interesting what each of us think is important when faced with a situation that is out of our norm. Jesus sent out the twelve disciples to spread the good news and had he left them to their own devises one can only imagine what they would have thought was important to pack for the journey. Jesus removed any ideas of preparedness the disciples might have had when he said, “Do not take along any gold or silver or copper in your belts; take no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep” (Matt 10:9-10 NIV). 

The Word of God

Over the last year and a half I’ve listen to sermons from many different local pastors and I understand their need to make the biblical message relative to today by using stories, anecdotes and illustrations. However, as I critique the messages there is such a potpourri of ideas that I wonder if the audience gives any thought to distinguishing between the word of man and the word of God. Paul commended the Thessalonians, “And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe” (1 Thess 2:13 NIV).

Invested

I’m writing articles on various clubs and service clubs in our community and already I see a pattern in membership participation. One club averages of 100 members, charges dues of about $900 a year, and has an 85% participation rate. Three other clubs with membership ranging from 100-165 charge modest dues and have participation rates of less than 10%. The group with 85% participation is obviously more invested…financially as well as emotionally. It occurs to me that in the church we dismiss membership participation rates by simply saying believers are non-active. Many people claim they have a relationship with Christ, yet they are not invested in fellowship within the body of Christ. Jesus said, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (Matt 16:18 NIV).

Disqualified

While writing an article on the America Legion I was surprised to learn that it is Congress who sets the policy on membership and it has been determined that only those with wartime service are eligible. Consequently those who served on active duty when there was no declared war or conflict are disqualified for membership. Some veterans are miffed because they feel Congress is telling them their service doesn’t count. On a spiritual level there are many whose service in the kingdom will also leave them disqualified for eternal life. Jesus 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. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers’” (Matt 7:21-23 NIV).

Shrewd

A person relatively new to our area lavishes a mixture of praise and platitudes on influential people in order to ingratiate himself with the community. The manipulation factor, which is reminiscent of the parable of the shrewd manager, is something I struggle to understand. “The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly. For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light. I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings” (Luke 16:8-9 NIV).

Herald

We’re all familiar with the make-up of the body of Christ and how those positions are categorized — apostles, prophets, teachers, workers of miracles, those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues (1 Cor 12:28). Using the process of elimination we mentally check off those positions for which we know we don’t qualify. Unfortunately many of us then limit ourselves with the only descriptive role that seems to fit. In his letter to Timothy the Apostle Paul added a new category to his list of credentials that of an official messenger bringing news. “And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher” (2 Tim 1:11). We are all appointed to be a herald of the Gospel.

Withholding

I have a hard time separating a person from their actions, consequently when someone has treated me poorly I keep them at arm’s length. When it’s a casual acquaintance I simply avoid them, however if it is a friend or a family member my distance-keeping takes on the form of withholding affection for a time. It gave me pause when I read that Paul didn’t tolerate such behavior from the Corinthians, but rather called them out. “We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you. We are not withholding our affection from you, but you are withholding yours from us. As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts also” (2 Cor 6:11-13 NIV).

The Life to Come

People make New Year’s resolutions to diet and get in shape for various reasons. When we were younger we strived to get to that perceived perfect size body, but as we age many of us simply want to keep up our strength so we can avoid going into a nursing home. Thank goodness dieting and exercise are temporal and someday they will end. Paul tells Timothy, “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come” (1 Tim 4:8 NIV).

Surrogate

I just received an email invitation to join one of our many community groups for a social evening of meet and greet networking. During the evening people can write out their suggestions on how to improve the community and then those suggestions will be categorized and “…given to those entities who have the ability to read those suggestions and make the necessary changes to put them in place.” The reality is that individuals don’t need a surrogate to carry their suggestions, they can go directly to the entity themselvs. Even people of faith can easily fall into a similar mind set thinking they need others to carry their burdens and petitions — Saint Christopher, Mary the mother of Jesus, Mother Teresa. The writer of Hebrews reminds us that through Jesus we have direct access to God, “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Heb 4:16 NIV).

By Hook or By Crook

Illegal immigration is a big problem in America. Rather than obeying US immigration laws, people are trying to force their way into the US by hook or by crook.  Jesus warned us of a similar situation when people think they can to get into heaven by means other than accepting Him as their Lord and Savior. Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out” (John 10:1-3 NIV).

Persecution Card

We all know folks who will play the race card whenever they lose at something in a social or political arena. After visiting a variety of churches I’ve picked up on the fact that a few church denominations and fellowships are doing something similar when they play a persecution card. They lament that mainstream churches brand them as cults, shunned them for talking in tongues and look down on them for abandoning the traditional church. Paul pointedly reminds us that such arguments lack foundation, “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all” (Col 3:9-11 NIV).

Making Disciples

Discipleship is a word used on the religious landscape and it’s a goal for people of faith. Mentoring on the other hand is a buzzword heard in the world and seems more easily accomplished. Reading the definitions it occurs to me that many of us may be better suited to mentoring than to making disciples. As defined by Webster’s, discipleship is, “one who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another [Jesus]; and mentoring is, “to advise or train.” However, Jesus didn’t commissioned the 11 disciples to be mentors, the Great Commission is to make disciples. Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matt 28:18-20 NIV).

Year in Review

My mother, bless her heart, was one who held onto grudges. When she passed away I sorted through her long-kept grievances which showed up in the form of hand written notes, divorce settlements and unrepaid loans papers. Her grudges were not mine to embrace, so I simply put them through the paper shredder. Unfortunately I get the same gnawing pain of holding someone else’s grudge when I read the local newspaper’s Year in Review of the top stories for 2015. Rather than reporting on the accomplishments and positive happenings in the community, reporters kept grudges alive by reminding us of past scandals, lawsuits and turmoil. In the church Paul says believers are to think and behave differently, “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification” (Ro 14:19 NIV).

Seeking the Lord

On yesterday’s blog Steve commented on the teaching of Jesus, “His technique was to just use parables that those inclined to seek the Lord would understand and the rest would not…Nobody just stumbles over the Lord…” Taking this thought a step further, I wonder what it says about believers who are not deepening their relationship with the Lord by staying in the Word — those who seek the Lord in nature, through the pastor and in fellowship, but yet they never crack their Bible. Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5 NIV).

The Epistle

The local newspaper publisher, a relatively newcomer to town, will occasionally write an editorial. In a recent column he recapped his Christmas holiday beginning with, “For those of you who think I share too much personal stuff about my life in this column; bail out now. For those who enjoy it; read on.”  Even just scanning the column I felt like some stranger just sent me his Christmas letter. When Paul wrote to a particular church he referenced his ministry, but the letters also contained instructions, encouragement and warnings for the body of believers…so much so that the letters were circulated to other churches. I’m trying to imagine Paul saying if you don’t like what you’re reading, bail out now. In Paul’s final thoughts to the Corinthians he said, “Finally, brothers, good–by. Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you” (2 Cor 13:11 NIV).

Anno Domini

In the year of our Lord 2016…Happy New Year!

Visiting

It’s bittersweet that I’ve just finished visiting 62 churches in the area and publishing articles about my worship experience. While my visits only lasted an hour or two, I have a better understanding of Paul’s strong desire to return to the churches he’d visited. “Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the brothers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing” (Acts 15:36 NIV).

The Spirit Within

I have a friend who I seldom see, but recently we ran into one another and she said, “Every time I drive by your house I think of you.” Her comment gave me pause. The Holy Spirit resides in every believer, but yet when I encounter people of like faith it’s only on the rare occasion that I think about the Spirit living within them. Paul said, “And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you” (Ro 8:11 NIV).

Humbling

A man of meager means is a dishwasher in a neighboring town. When he found an envelope of cash he turned it over to his boss, who returned it to its rightful owner. The story of his honesty has spread not only across the community, but around the nation and to other countries. People are rewarding the man’s honesty with financial gifts and now, rather than couch surfing, he may be able to buy a home of his own. Beyond his honesty the local paper reported that the man qualifies for food stamps and other assistance, but refuses to accept government help insisting, “…he will work for his money.” Seldom do we hear of someone forfeiting something they are entitled to. Paul wrote that our attitude should be the same as Christ Jesus, “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross” (Phil 2:6-8 NIV)!

Hypocrisy

Our local newspaper recently ran an editorial chastising leaders and citizens for keeping a current controversy alive. The underlying theme of the editorial was there is nothing that can be done, let it go and move on. This is the same newspaper that goes through their archives looking for propaganda to republish about people and events in the community so they can keep stories alive that happened one to 10 years ago. The words of Jesus can just as easily be applied to businesses and organizations, as to individuals, “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye” (Matt 7:3-5 NIV).

Merry Christ-mas

Many of us lament that the true meaning of Christmas is lost in commercialism. We are particularly critical that the marketing of Christmas starts immediately after Thanksgiving…and in some cases holiday displays can even be seen right after Halloween. It occurs to me that in times past proclaiming the name of Christ was confined to the month of December. However today, even though it is not the intention of marketers, the name of Christ is publically proclaimed throughout November and December. “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Phil 2:9-11 NIV).

Twas the Night Before Christmas

Every once in a while we’ll hear about mothers going into labor so quickly that they are unable to get to the hospital in time. A baby being delivered on the side of the road in the back seat of a car by a policeman is a much more compelling drama than the birth of a baby born in a sterile hospital surrounded by medical personnel. So vivid and memorable is the birth of Jesus that even young children know and repeat the story. While Mary and Joseph were in Bethlehem, “...the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn” (Luke 2:6-7 NIV).

Leveling Spiritual Paths

Last week the Denver metro area was hit with a snowstorm that dumped over eight inches of snow in some places. A few days after the storm we visited my daughter and when I took her dog for a walk I was surprised that so many homeowners either didn’t shovel their walks, or simply made a narrow swipe through the snow. In and out of shaded areas the walks were treacherous and I found myself praying with every step as I went from snow pack, to sheets of ice, to gullies of slush. Spiritually speaking I’m now wondering if there are times when I’ve not maintained the sidewalks in and around my life leaving obstacles for others to traverse. The writer of Hebrews said, “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed” (Heb 2:13 NIV).

Birth of Redemption

An older man in our church suffers from Alzheimer’s and although names of people are difficult for him to remember, he is cheerful and faithful in attendance. Jim’s progressive disease has not stopped him from serving communion. I marvel that even in infirmity not only is there a desire to serve, but God has a place for us to serve. Mary and Joseph took the infant Jesus to the temple where Simeon, a righteous and devout man, blessed the Child. There was also a prophetess, Anna who was widowed after seven years of marriage and was now very old at age eighty–four. “She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem” (Luke 2:37b-38 NIV).

Self-Conscious

When my sister passed away I inherited her jewelry and one of the pieces is an ostentatious gold ring. I felt self-conscious wearing the ring even on special occasions, so I decided to get comfortable with the flamboyance by wearing it all the time. Consequently it now no longer bothers me that the ring may sometimes look out of place even when I’m dressed in casual attire. I think something similar happens to people when they first accept Christ. We tend to wear Christianity to church and on special occasions, but feel self-conscious about being a new creation out into the world. Paul said, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Cor 5:17 NIV).

Let Your Light Shine

My daughter, Leslie, lives in an older subdivision in the metro area and directly cross the street from her house are two neighbors who compete with each other in decorating their houses for Christmas. Every inch of both properties, from rooftops, to shrubs and trees, to backyard privacy fencing is aglow with lights, garland and larger than life Christmas characters. As soon as it’s dark a steady flow of buses and cars tour the neighborhood. Even if Leslie and Tim tried to decorate their house it would be paltry compared the extravaganza across the street. I’m now wondering if it’s possible for a believer to let their light shine to excess. “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matt 5:14-16 NIV).

Gifted

A pastor whose denomination advocates for prophesy, speaking in tongues and faith healing told the audience that although believers major in one spiritual gift, everyone is equipped with all of the spiritual gifts. He said, “If I only have the gift of prophesy, what happens if someone comes to me who needs healing? Do I send him to the house down the road [to someone who has the gift of healing]?” I don’t completely agree with the preacher’s interpretation on gifts today, however, I was reminded of the disciples who were unable to drive a demon out of a young boy. Jesus then drove the demon out and later the disciples came to Him privately and ask why their attempts were unsuccessful. Jesus replied, “Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you” (Matt 17:20-21 NIV).

Disinherited

Speaking about adoption a pastor said, “Did you know that by law when you write a will you can disinherit your children…but that you can’t disinherit an adopted child? God choose us. We are adopted and we cannot be disinherited.” Paul wrote in Ephesians, “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves” (Eph 1:4-6 NIV).

Closed for the Season

I’ve encountered too many churches that have their names in a public directory as though they are open for business, but their phones are disconnected, they’ve shuttered their doors, or moved and left no forwarding address. Recently I received the following reply from an email I’d sent: "Gail, Sorry it took so long to respond. We are not doing the prayer center at this time. I'm sorry. Mark" It's not unusual to hear people say that the Lord has moved them on to a different ministry. However, to say, “We are not doing the prayer center at this time,” sounds like something you’d hear from the owner of a kiosk when he wanted to close up shop for the winter. Jesus said to the self-deluded members of the church in Laodicea, “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).

Set Apart

In my last two church visits the congregations went to the effort to find out about my visits and then classified them as a ministry. At the close of both services these congregations took time to pray over me and pray for the outreach of the stories. I was both honored and humbled by their blessing. It’s not unusual for churches to set apart people for works of service, but we usually think in terms of someone going on the mission field, or taking a position in church ministry. I’m wondering if we underestimate the need to set people apart for any ministry into which they have been called. The disciples in the church at Antioch experienced such direction, “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them” (Acts 13:2 NIV).

Fidgeting

Writing is a sedentary lifestyle and my exercise and nutritional consultant wants me to move more. She suggested that at a minimum I get up from the computer at least once every hour and that I should fidget. Immediately I could hear a chorus of mom’s voices saying, “Sit still. Stop fidgeting.” Sometimes mothers are God’s messengers, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalm 46:10 NIV).

What Do You Think

The young woman felt she was stimulating a spiritual conversation when she ask a man what he thought about a particular passage of Scripture. He responded, “Why are you asking me what I think? It’s in the book [Bible].” The man made a point that all too often we let thoughts and opinions trump the Word of God. James speaks to the same issue, “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. Or do you think Scripture says without reason that the spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely” (James 4:4-5 NIV)?

The Eyes Have It

Speaking on a secular level, if I want to avoid someone I don’t make eye contact with them. Unfortunately we do something similar in the church when we don’t want to engage, or we’re uncomfortable reaching out to others. Jesus could have sent his disciples to fetch Zacchaeus out of the tree, or he could have come to the base of the tree and spoke generically to those standing around and told them about his intentions. However, “When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today” (Luke 19:5 NIV). As believers we often underestimate and undervalue the importance of eye contact.

Interactive Sermons

More and more I see speakers, both secular and religious, trying to be interactive with their audience. They say, “Can I hear an Amen to that?” “Thank you Jesus…right?” “Jenny, you had similar experience do you want to share anything with us?” I’m not sure if this type of inclusion is intended to build a rapport, to let people have a feeling of participation, or if it’s a prop. During the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) Jesus drew the audience into the message without making them active participants. “When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law” (Matt 7:28-29 NIV).

Testimony

I attended a church that began with the pastor inviting people to come forward to give testimonies about what God has been doing in their lives. One man had only a few words out of his mouth before he switched from giving a testimony to preaching. His mini-sermon wasn’t bad, but it lacked the power found in a testimony. Using John the Baptist as an example, “Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. I would not have known him, except that the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God” (John 1:32-34 NIV).

Prudent

I’m working on an article about emergency preparedness and many state and federal organizations suggest the importance of having an emergency supply kit on hand in case of a natural disaster. Generally speaking they all recommend that you should have enough food and water to last each person 72 hours. Certainly the Lord wants believers to be prudent, but not to the point of worry. Jesus said, “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matt 6:31-34 NIV).

Slush Fund

Our city imposed a 25 cent per month surcharge on each resident’s sewer bill to help citizens cover the cost of cleanup if they have a sewer backup. On the surface some people bought into the reasoning put forth. However, in six months the fund has accumulated almost $13,000 and to date no money has been paid out, even though there are a couple of claims pending. I’m reminded of Judas Iscariot objecting to Mary pouring expensive perfume on the feet of Jesus. Judas suggested the perfume should have been sold and the money given to the poor. “He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it” (John 12:6 NIV).

Knew Who

I was forced to change my email address when my service program glitched and would only allow me to receive, but not send. Unable to send my address book to the new email system I’ve jumped through all kinds of hoops, including manually inserting some of the contacts. As I’ve scrutinized the names in the list I’m surprised by some of the contacts listed that I have no idea who they are, much less how the wound up in my address book. I now have a different understanding of how the Apostle Paul could so easily dismiss the names of all the people he’d baptized. Knowing his priorities, Paul said, “For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel—not with words of human wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power” (1 Cor 1:17 NIV).

Plausibility

Many of us may feel uncomfortable with the direction taken by elected officials and government administrators, but when we question their decisions they always have a plausible explanation. They can easily justify their actions because constituents don’t have all the facts needed to counter their statements. I’m reminded of the parable of the Great Banquet and the invited guests who made excuses and justifications for not attending. One had to inspect his newly purchased property, another had to try out his new oxen and a third was a newlywed. On the surface, and without knowing each situation, I would probably have accepted their explanation. Spiritually speaking however, plausible excuses don’t work. Jesus said, “Then the master told his servant, ‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full. I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet’” (Luke 14:23-24 NIV).

Greater Than, Less Than

In today’s society it seems common practice for people to value themselves above others. As an example of humble service Jesus washed the feet of his disciples to show them what they should do for others. I’d always felt Jesus reinforced his illustration when he told the disciples what they already knew, “I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him” (John 13:16 NIV). However, I now believe those in Jesus’ time were as self-centered as we are today. Apparently this truth revealed by Jesus was a new teaching, “Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them” (vs 17).

Signs of the Times

Bill received a weather station as an early Christmas present and son-in-law Tim helped him install the sensor on the peak of the house. With the wireless remote now on a shelf in the house we don’t even have to poke out nose out the door to know what the weather is like…wind speed, temperature, humidity, barometric pressure and rainfall totals. As much as were going to enjoy our new toy, I’m also reminded of Jesus’ thoughts about the weather watchers of his time. When the Pharisees and the Sadducees demanded Jesus give them a sign from heaven he said, “When evening comes, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,’ and in the morning, ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times” (Matt 16:2-3 NIV).

Happy Thanksgiving

The world is in turmoil, but even in the midst of chaos both here and abroad, the Apostle Paul tells us to be thankful. “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1Thess 5:16-18 NIV).

Curses

During a contentious public meeting the men were loud, confrontational and accusatory…each tried to outdo the others with their ego and diatribe. However, one woman sprinkled her comments with swear words. I suspect this was her attempt to make her mark amongst all the men, but I doubt they were impressed. “Do not pay attention to every word people say, or you may hear your servant cursing you — for you know in your heart that many times you yourself have cursed others” (Ecc 7:21-22 NIV).

Fast of Foot

The news reported on an Amish man who runs marathons in his traditional clothing of slacks, long sleeve shirt and suspenders, along with non-traditional sneakers. He went through a rebellious streak in his teens and his brother-in-law introduced him to running. The young man said that whenever he is tempted to sin he runs. Well now that’s a concept! Paul said, “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart” (2 Tim 2:22 NIV).

Intimidation

A public meeting was billed as finding candidates to run for elected office and a member of the audience made a veiled threat that boarded on candidate intimidation. He said, “Any candidate you run will look like fools when we call them out. We will ask them questions about what they don’t know! If you run a candidate, they better be able to answer [our] questions.” The Pharisees, Sadducees and teachers of the law devised questions for Jesus with the intention of discrediting Him and making Him out to be a fool. The Lord was not intimidated, but rather responded in a manner that exposed the folly of His questioners. “Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes” (Proverb 26:5 NIV).

Send and Receive

I have major email issues and in order to solve the problem I wound up with four different email servers, each doing a different function. With two I can receive emails, but not send out. With another I can send and receive, but none of my contacts are in that email address book. One is selective and will receive some, but not all emails. Currently I am cutting and pasting messages onto different servers until I have time to consolidate and get everything in one place. I have this image of the Spirit being similarly frustrated when He sorts through the mixed messages of believers…are they sending, receiving, deleting, saving…or simply dealing with junk mail. Paul said, “…but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man’s spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us” (1Cor 2:10-12 NIV).

Eyes That See

I get irritated when my grandkids get in my car and start poking buttons. Occasionally my husband Bill will also change some settings and forget to put them back — rearview mirrors, seat position, radio station, dash lights. When I hop in the car and start down the road I either have pull over and do some resets, or just continue driving with a bad attitude and things out of kilter. Last night I had an evening meeting and as I drove out of the driveway I realized Bill had dimed the intensity on the dash board and I could hardly see the speedometer, much less any of the other controls. It took me about three blocks before I realized that even the street lights and house porch lights were not as bright as they should be. It’s amazing how things look when you’re driving at night with your sunglasses on! “Ears that hear and eyes that see— the LORD has made them both” (Proverbs 20:12).

Wise Counsel

I’ve mentioned to a few people that I scheduled a meeting with an official and each and every one of them has cautioned, “Do not meet with him alone.” Their reasoning is not that something inappropriate might happen, but that anything said might be twisted or manipulated. I’ll keep the scheduled meeting, but being mindful of the counsel from others I intend to record the conversation. “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22 NIV).

Putting Out Your Sign

Disconnected phone numbers and incorrect addresses are a couple of reasons I’ve had difficulties finding some of the churches I’ve wanted to visit. One address turned out to be a tattoo parlor, so I called the phone number listed and the man laughed and said, “Well, just get a tattoo and then come on upstairs to church!” The church, which was in a strip mall, had relocated to an upstairs room. However, in order to find the church entrance I had to drive through the alley, locate an industrial door with a small church sign and then climb a flight of stairs. At the conclusion of the service I told the pastor about my difficulty in finding them and he said, “Well we used to put a sign out front on the sidewalk, but we just got tired of putting it out.” I suspect that as individuals may of us are of a similar mindset. Having been believers most of our lives we forget the importance of putting out our own personal sign of hope and salvation. The writer of Hebrews said, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus, who went before us, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek” (Heb 6:19 20 NIV).

Temptation

In his sermon on temptation the pastor took us back to the Garden of Eden, “In our mind we think the temptation of Eve took only a few moments. The truth is we don’t know how long it took — a day, a week, a year.” It’s a new thought to me that Eve may not have been so weak-willed that she jumped at the slightest temptation; and also that Satan might well needle us with the same temptations, the ones we are most vulnerable to, over long periods of time. Whether the temptation period is long or short, the antidote prescribed by James is the same, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7 NIV).

Leadership

Leif Babin, former Navy Seal and co-author of “Extreme Ownership,” spoke about leadership during a FOX News segment. He said those in leadership positions need to “…acknowledge failure and own their mistakes.” We rarely see that from politicians, but the same can be said about Christians. It’s easy for me to say I’ve failed, made mistakes and sinned…but quite another matter to take ownership and cite details and particulars to someone else. I’m not sure I can even remember the last time I confessed my sin to someone. James said, “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).

Self-Impressed

Recently a library ballot referendum was defeated by 519 votes and some in the community, including some Christians, are furious with the 519. A fellow believer even wrote a letter-to-the-editor saying that these people should be embarrassed by their vote. Those who villainize these folks are overlooking the fact that the vote was actually 5,618 to 5,099. I guess it’s easier to rationalize being angry with 519 than it is being angry with 5,618 voters. I’m amazed people can become so impressed with themselves that they think they can direct the lives of others, up to and including how to vote. In Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian elders he warned, “Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them” (Acts 20:30).

Emphasis Added

Fairly often I’ll get a forwarded email that has been doctored and fluffed up by each consecutive reader. There will be highlights, bold and underlined words, and fonts so large that a word wraps around to the next line. I normally delete the collage because it’s distracting to read and quite honestly I don’t need someone else telling me what they think is important. Thank goodness biblical scribes weren’t allowed to highlight portions of Scripture that they thought needed added emphasis. John wrote, “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book. And if anyone takes words away from this book of prophecy, God will take away from him his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book” (Rev 22:18-19 NIV).

Adulteress

It was frosty early Sunday morning as I looked out my kitchen window into my neighbor’s backyard. Three young adults dressed in jackets and hoodies were moving around trying to stay warm while they shared a joint and lite up a pipe. I know I’m naïve, but seriously, who smokes marijuana for breakfast? Although Proverbs 7 is a warning against adultery, marijuana might well fit the image of an adulteress, “At the window of my house I looked out through the lattice. I saw among the simple, I noticed among the young men, a youth who lacked judgment” (Proverbs 7:6-7 NIV).

Let Us Serve

The topic of our Sunday school lesson was “serving” and the teacher encouraged us to follow the example of Jesus and serve one another. As I reflected on how I serve others I thought of the many times people stopped me in my tracks by trying to repackage my service. For example, if I offer to bring a vegetable dish to the potluck, but the organizer of the event says she would rather have me on clean-up duty. Or, if I volunteer to serve as an adult Sunday school teacher and someone tries to assign me to the nursery. It is curious that people think they can be in charge of directing another person’s service. Peter did something similar when Jesus began washing the disciple’s feet. “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me...I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (John 13:8, 15 NIV).

Are You Really My Partner?

Amongst local government agencies and community organizations the term “partnership” is used so liberally that it has become an illusion. The public perception presented is that everyone is working together; however, the reality is that not only are they working around each other, they often work against one another. Their actions seem remarkable similar to the deception Jacob perpetrated on his father Isaac when he disguised himself as his brother Esau. Unfortunately many of us in the community have weak eyes and are as blind as Isaac simply because we take the concept of partners that is presented to us at face value. “Jacob went close to his father Isaac, who touched him and said, “The voice is the voice of Jacob, but the hands are the hands of Esau.” He did not recognize him, for his hands were hairy like those of his brother Esau; so he blessed him. “Are you really my son Esau?” he asked. “I am,” he replied” (Gen 27:22-24 NIV).

The Smallest Witness

Many of us think in terms of spreading the Gospel to the whole world, reaching our community for Christ, or bringing someone to salvation. I had not thought in terms of my relationship with one person impacting their sphere of influence. For instance, I’ve befriended a single woman and while I sense my Christian witness has touched her life, I hadn’t considered that my witness might be extended through her to her young children, co-workers and extended family. I suspect I’ve underestimated the power of the Spirit to multiply my witness. Jesus said, “Again he said, “What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest seed you plant in the ground. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds of the air can perch in its shade” (Mark 4:30-32 NIV).

No-Call-List

Being on the do-not-call list hasn’t stopped my getting unsolicited phone calls. Normally I simply hang up, but the other day in frustration I called the number back. To my surprise the recording said, “If you think you have been called by mistake and want to be put on our no-call-list press five.” I now return unsolicited calls and often I’m able to get on the individual organization’s no-call-list. I haven’t stopped all the calls, but eliminating even a few has given me a sense of empowerment. Spiritually speaking, the devil is also on my do-not-call list, but that hasn’t stopped him from calling either. James said, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7 NIV).

Dependence

Some of my older friends are rebelling against age and they refuse to use walkers, oxygen tanks, and install handicap ramps. In spite of two broken hips and two fractured ribs my aunt, who is in her early 80’s, refuses to use a cane because, “She doesn’t want to become dependent on it.” It occurs to me that in many instances believers have a similar mind set. We don’t completely turn our lives over to the Lord because we don’t want to become too dependent. The Psalmist reminds us, “Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge” (Psalm 62:5-7 NIV).

Be on Guard

At the close of Sunday morning worship a visitor came forward and wanted to offer his testimony. In a nutshell he was born in the Czech Republic and had been in the US for almost two decades…sometimes legally, sometimes illegally. With a few rabbit trails he took us on his journey of finding God and included his concern for America’s decline and fear that if the US didn’t wake up we would someday resemble his former homeland. His testimony/political commentary in broken English was lengthy and while some people took their seats, others exited the building. I found it to be an awkward and worrisome situation that a man, whom none of us know, could simply walk in off the street and gain an audience with the congregation. Paul’s charge to Timothy is applicable to us today, “Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge…” (1 Tim 6:20 NIV).

Equality

My friend is a self-proclaimed Christian Feminist who considers herself de-churched because of what she sees as inequality in the church between men and women. With rapid fire justifications she defended her position and I couldn’t tell if she wanted endorsement, acceptance or debate. I give credit to the Spirit to help me jump over the worldly controversy and look beyond positions on earth. When our focus is on the end game of salvation and eternal life, there is no inequality. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16 NIV).

The Spirit Speaks

Years ago I knew a youth minister who impressed upon students that once you accept Jesus as your Savior you have the indwelling presence of the Spirit. The Spirit then reads what you read and goes where you go. Illustrating his point the minister said that if you view pornographic material, watch X-rated movies, or go to a weekend beer bust, then you’ve taken the Spirit along with you. I’m now contemplating how the Spirit feels as He and I attend different worship services of all sizes, shapes and denominations. It occurs to me that He might be edified, grieved, or even bored. Just as the Spirit spoke to each of the seven churches in Revelation, he speaks also to my church today, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (Rev 2:29 NIV).

Unprepared

Without introduction the speaker/preacher stood behind the podium and told of his fear and uneasiness about speaking in front of a group with whom he was not well acquainted. Beginning his message he recounted telling his wife he would, “…build a message when I get up there to the podium. God will expand on the Scriptures that have touched me, He [God] wants to move me along, move us forward.” I continue to be amazed at how often I hear speakers tell their audience that they are relying on the Spirit to put the finishing touches on their message. Some of these men may be confusing sermon preparation with words that are needed when one is under persecution. Jesus said to the Twelve, “But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you” (Matt 10:19-20 NIV).

Defensive

In doing a follow-up on a story a government employee got a little defensive at my simple question. While he answered my question there was a hint of indignation and he suggested I take any further inquiry to someone else. Even though I know the employee as a fellow believer, it didn’t keep him from having a worldly reaction to the situation. The Genesis account of the Fall of Man came to mind and I heard God asking simple questions — “Where are you?” “What is this you have done?” Although Adam answered, he implied further questions should go to Eve. Likewise, Eve answered God, but implied further questions should be directed to the serpent. Unfortunately even people of faith sometimes look around for a serpent when we don’t want to fully answer a question.

Poking God

Children often pester, poke and shove each another just to see what they can get away with. Believers deal with something similar when people in our lives try to force us to embrace homosexuality, turn a blind eye to abortion, and accept that all paths lead to god. These folks want to wear us down with their arguments, but in reality they are not simply needling us, they are poking God. Paul makes an apt description of such people. “There is no fear of God before their eyes” (Ro 3:18 NIV).

Recapping

A number of churches have their adult Sunday school class prior to the worship service. I’m surprised by how often the Sunday school lesson then becomes the opening segment of the worship service. This is a common precursor in my own church and only recently have I realized how disconnecting it is for those coming in just for the worship service. During one of my recent church visits I felt completely left out when the pastor spent 10 minutes doing a recap of the Sunday school class to which I had not attended. Think of attending an English class where the teacher spends the first 10 minutes recapping his previous Algebra class.

The Battle

It’s not unusual in an obituary to read that someone battled cancer for either a short, or long time. For 17 years Bill has had prostate cancer that metastasized to the bone. While he deals with it as a progressive disease, I’m not sure either of us would classify the life experience as a battle. To me a battle is all consuming and cancer has not consumed our lives. Paul reminds us, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Eph 6:12 NIV).

The Need

An anonymous family in the church is going through a difficult time and a specific request went out for help with food, diapers and grocery store gift cards. As so often happens, our benevolent mind jumps over the stated need and races to what we have that that we can offer…clothes, cash, toys. I’m reminded of the poor widow who put two small copper coins in the temple treasury. Jesus could have asked the widow what she needed, or even ask the disciples what they thought she needed — food, money, caregivers, or another husband. However, in order to teach a spiritual lesson Jesus went beyond the obvious physical needs and looked at the widow’s heart. “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on” (Mark 12:43-44 NIV).

Saint Frankenstein

No one would deny that there are many different parts in the body of Christ. However, when it comes to placement of those parts, church leadership often takes it upon themselves to determine where they want those parts to function. If believers are allowed to participate in the body only as leaders determine, we may start looking more like Frankenstein than the Bride. “But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other” (1 Cor 12:24b-25 NIV).

In Everything

When a group goes out to a sit down restaurant it’s not unusual for one person to pay the bill and for another person to offer to leave the tip. Regardless of the size of tip left, there are times when someone in the group will leave a few dollars more on the table. It’s not like they offer to help with the tip, they just add to the amount already left. The person who volunteered to leave the tip in the first place is put in an awkward and uncomfortable position. He can’t tell if they think the tip is inadequate, if they are trying to trump the tip by being more generous, or if they think they are better judge of service than anyone else. Believers are to put themselves in the other person’s shoes. Jesus said, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets” (Matt 7:12 NIV).

False Witnesses

Minutes of a meeting, once they are approved, become an official record. I recently attended a meeting where some of the trustees of the organization approve minutes of a previous meeting which they had not attended. One woman said, “I can’t make a motion because I haven’t even read the minutes.” All of the trustees voted to approve the minutes and in essence their lackadaisical attitude qualifies as giving false testimony. The psalmist said, “A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false witness tells lies” (Proverbs 12:17 NIV).

Full Light

I like to watch crime drama TV shows, but find them frustrating when investigators at the crime scene look for evidence with a small high-beamed flashlight. I want them to turn up the lights so I can see the whole area and any clues that may be in the shadows. It occurs to me that when witnessing to unbelievers many of us are like investigators — we put a beam of light on select characteristics of Jesus like love and forgiveness; while we leave obedience and repentance in the shadows. Jesus, the light of the world, said, “Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don’t you put it on its stand? For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open” (Mark 4:21-22 NIV).

Up a Tree

On the local level a controversial article published online received very few comments, but generated well over 700 separate views on the first day of publication. It appears that many people are interested in the topic, but they don’t weigh in because they don’t want others to know they are interested. I’m reminded of Zacchaeus, who climb a sycamore fig tree and peered through the leaves hoping to get a glimpse of Jesus. Zacchaeus would never have revealed himself had the Lord not looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today” (Luke 19:5b NIV).  So often we believers are satisfied to simply peer through the leaves of a tree rather than coming down and letting our position be known to others.

Dusty Shoes

I’ve attended a fair number of churches that use the auditorium for the adult Sunday school class prior to the worship service. Consequently, I’ve found myself standing alone in the foyer for 10-15 minutes waiting for the class to dismiss. I understand utilizing the facility space, but what I don’t understand is the lack of accommodations for visitors. My sense is that many of these churches simply don’t expect uninvited visitors. Jesus sent the 12 apostles out into towns and villages where they were not known with the caveat, “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town” (Matt 10:14 NIV).  I can’t help but wonder how many visitors dust off their shoes as they exit our churches simply because they were not welcomed.

Blame Game

I’m seeing a pattern of speakers and preachers going to the podium with unprepared messages. However, what is even more troubling than their being unprepared is that they are putting the blame on the Lord. Time after time I’m hearing ministers of the Gospel say, “I had another message prepared, but at the last minute the Lord told me He wanted me to share a different message with you.” Certainly the Lord can on short notice redirect a preacher’s sermon topic, but one would think if the Lord did so, He would also supply the cohesiveness needed for the new topic…and that the new message would be timely, impactful and Spirit filled. Paul gave Timothy this charge: “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).

Trustees

In doing research for an article I had to scrutinize the official minutes of an organization. For a special meeting the president of the trustees set the agenda, but one member simply didn’t attend because she felt “…the topic presented to her,” was a job for the personnel committee and the executive director. I was taken aback at the woman’s lack of responsibility, but even more surprised that the president didn’t hold her accountable. Webster defines trustee as: an individual person or member of a board given control or powers of administration of property in trust with a legal obligation to administer it solely for the purposes specified. It occurs to me that as believers, we too are trustees. “So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the secret things of God. Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful” (1 Cor 4:1-2 NIV).

Creation’s Voice

I recently attended a cowboy church that held worship services in a barn. A stall in the barn held an injured horse, Charlie, who had to be separated from the other horses. I took a seat next to the stall gate and throughout the services the mare munched hay over the top of my head, snorted down my neck and spit water on me after drinking water. As though on cue Charlie punctuated praise songs, prayers and the message with whinnies and neighs that resembled Amen! Hallelujah! and Praise the Lord! I was reminded that the Pharisees wanted Jesus to silence his disciples, but Jesus let them know that even God’s creation has a voice. “I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out” (Luke 19:40 NIV).

Call to Worship

The man opening the worship service cradled a large shofar in his arm and spoke heavenward, “Shout to the Lord! Bring everything that is good in here; blowing the shofar brings the Spirit.” He then blew a long sustained blast and worshippers applauded his skill. The trumpeter is a seasoned believer, so I feel confident that he knows the Spirit dwells within believes and is not summoned to a church assembly with the blast of a ram’s horn. However, in his zeal to connect OT worship with NT worship he may have confused the fact that it is people who are called to worship. “On the first day of the seventh month hold a sacred assembly and do no regular work. It is a day for you to sound the trumpets” (Numbers 29:1 NIV).

Non-Traditional Church

A notice in the newspaper for a house church reads, “We have left the institutional church and are meeting as simple believers in Jesus Christ.” Recently at an assembly of about 50 I heard, “We have left the traditional church; we are not the traditional church.” So what does that mean? These folks have elders and a board, they gave announcements, had a worship service of praise songs and hymns, presented a message by an ordained minister, served communion, offered multiple prayers, and enjoyed a fellowship meal following the service. The only thing untraditional about the gathering was the location and setting. Too bad the book of Revelation doesn’t contain a letter to an eight church, “To the angel of the church of the Non-Traditional…”

Segregation

In stark contrast to the Mennonite ladies who wore longer dresses in subdued hues and black scarves on their heads, I wore slacks, a royal purple jacket and no head covering. There was no doubt I was a visitor and even a few young children sent side glances my way. Two women, each with a young child, approached me hesitantly. One ask if I lived in the area and the other asked if she could sit next to me in the pew…but neither introduced themselves. The worship service was segregated; the men and boys sat on the right side of the church and the women and girls sat on the left. After the service a few women stood in close proximity while two of them introduced themselves, engaged me in conversation about my church visits and invited me to come back again. However, even as I stood amongst the cordial ladies, their reserve held a heavy sense of segregation. Paul reminds believers, “I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought” (1 Cor 1:10 NIV).

Misplaced Anger

I have a friend who is angry with a local church because they failed to make an appearance at his father’s funeral. For decades the father was a faithful and generous supporter of the church; however the graveside service, which was held over 100 miles away over mountainous roads, was not conducive to the dad’s contemporaries making the trip. My first reaction was to feel the church may have been negligent; however, after some thought it occurs to me that the son is not rejoicing in his father’s welcome in heaven, but is simply hanging on to the trapping of the world. “Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him” (1 Thess 4:13-14 NIV).

Blots and Blemishes

For over a year I’ve written for the Montrose Mirror, a free online newspaper. I find it curious that I get more feedback for interviews and articles on community activities than I do on articles about my church visits. I suspect it may have something to do with the fact that the church articles reveal a few blots and blemishes on the Bride of Christ — and most believers want to see only the perfect bride. Most of us aren’t comfortable with examining ourselves, much less with examining the church, and yet God sees it all. “For a man’s ways are in full view of the LORD, and he examines all his paths” (Proverbs 5:21 NIV).