Endangered Species

I attended a program on butterflies and learned they can, depending on the species, live for a day, a week, or for two seasons for those that hibernate. Because there is a decrease in the number of Monarch Butterflies some people want to put them on the endangered species list. The speaker pointed out that the Monarch’s migration is a one-way trip, “I don’t know how you would protect something that migrates all the way from Canada to Mexico.” How presumptuous of man to try and take God’s place in caring for his creatures. Jesus said, “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father” (Mat 10:29 NIV).

Picture of the Soul

I visited a photography club and the program presenter preferred shooting portraits and people over photos of landscapes and nature. He said, “There is no soul in a landscape. It could be a desktop photo, or a placemat. Take a picture of people working, studying, or in a religious setting…they tell the story that we are always looking for in a photograph.” In a similar manner, when believers live to please God and love one another, their actions tell a story and their soul is exposed. Paul said, “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody” (1 Thes 4:11-12 NIV).

It Is Finished

I had a brief conversation with a friend about ghosts and he felt that ghosts of the dead do hang around if there is unfinished business, or if the person died too suddenly. Putting this in a Christian context many of us would say that because there is always work to do in God’s kingdom, there is always unfinished business…and some of us are even surprised at how suddenly death knocks on the door. I’m trying to imagine Christian spirits with unfinished business who only thought they were going to rest from their earthly labors! For me, I need look no further than the example Jesus put before us as He hung on the cross. “A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit” (John 19:29-30 NIV).

New Rules

On the national political landscape everyone is making up new rules as they go along to control Donald Trump and keep him out of the White House. Local politics are no different. After a recent election the old guard, in an attempt to control a controversial newly elected representative, made up a few new rules for him to abide by. Even in the church, leaders find it easier to write new rules and set policy, than to help believers mature. The Pharisees were insulted when Jesus exposed a similar practice. Jesus replied, “And you experts in the law, woe to you, because you load people down with burdens they can hardly carry, and you yourselves will not lift one finger to help them” (Luke 11:46 NIV).

Seared Consciences

I’ve read a couple of AP newspaper articles with the titles, “Pope emphasizes flexibility over rules for modern families,” and “Pope insists conscious, not just rules, must lead modern families.” I can understand where doctrine, if it is a belief instituted by man and taught by the church, might evolve to accommodate modern families. However, any implication that the Bible must somehow conform to each new age, or modern family, is dangerously close to pleasing people, rather than pleasing God. To suggest that one’s conscious, rather than the Word of God and the Spirit, is more capable of leading modern families elevates man over God.  Paul said, “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron” (1 Tim 4:1-2 NIV).

Dissemination

Recently a laborious political email (bcc) was sent to a number of people in the community. When printed out the document, mostly single spaced, was 10 pages long. It should come as no surprise that by the time readers got through the information they completely ignored the disclaimer at the end of the document. Citing the Electronic Communication Privacy Act 18 2510-252, “… you are hereby notified that any dissemination or copying of this email message is strictly prohibited.” Needless to say the email was disseminated, forwarded and found its way to the media. I’m reminded that Jesus too attached a disclaimer to some of His miracles. Jesus healed two blind men and then warned them sternly, “See that no one knows about this.” But they went out and spread the news about him all over that region” (Matt 9:30-31 NIV).

Rules Are Rules

I visited a club and during the business meeting the treasurer said, “If you don’t pay your dues you will be dropped.” Later in the meeting a retreat was discussed and the organizer said, “There is only room for 24 to attend.” Uncomfortable, the woman next to me said apologetically, “We sound so exclusive…like you could be voted off the island. I’m sure you wouldn’t immediately be dropped if you didn’t pay your dues.” I recognized my table mates wanting to soften the club’s rules and regulations, because we believers do something similar when we soften the Word of God and claim ignorance for our loved ones. Paul said, “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse” (Rom 1:18-20 NIV). 

The Earth and Everything in It

More than a dozen members of the community attended multiple meetings to object to a peace pole being installed on public library property. During the most recent library board meeting one board member summarized her view of the objectors, “It is what I would call religious fundamentalists who perceive the peace pole as a religious symbol… [and] a threat to God and the constitution.” I have to laugh at the absurdity of anything being a threat to God. A psalm of David, “The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters” (Psalm 24:1-2 NIV).

Dastardly Deed

During the winter we parked our big green John Deer 28-inch snow blower in the breezeway between the house and the garage. A few weeks ago in the middle of the night someone stole it. Actually, because of the size and weight, it would have taken more than one person to lift it into a truck. I have no expectations of getting the snow blower back, but because the model and serial numbers were entered in the national and state crime information computer system, the thieves will have a harder time trying to sell, pawn or trade it in. I fall short of loving my enemy when at the same time I’m hoping they got a hernia from their dastardly deed. Jesus said, “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. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you” (Luke 6:27-31 NIV).

Faux Transparency

On the political landscape elected officials play the transparency card, but if there were true transparency there would be no need for subpoenas, public records requests and investigative reporters. On the spiritual level we’d like to think that Christians are above reproach; however, even they can lack transparency.  Paul said, “Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God” (1 Cor 4:5 NIV).

Opportunity

On religious holidays like Easter many people go to church, not so much out of respect for the Lord, but out of respect for the family member who invited them. I find it curious that most of us invite loved ones to church on special occasions like Easter or Christmas, but fail to extend an invitation on the other 50 Sundays in the year. I suppose in the back of our mind we think the significance of the holiday gives us leverage and opportunity. Jesus however, didn’t wait for a festival, Passover, or the Sabbath to offer an invitation. A simple walk on the beach while fishermen were fishing was His opportunity, “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him” (Matt 4:19-20 NIV).

Careless Words

Jesus was before the Sanhedrin, “Then they spit in his face and struck him with their fists. Others slapped him and said, “Prophesy to us, Christ. Who hit you” (Matt 26:67-68 NIV)? Apparently these particular Pharisees were not in the audience when Jesus said, “But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matt 12:36-37 NIV).

Be Holy

According to the footnotes in the NIV study Bible the word “holy” appears more often in the book of Leviticus than any other book in the Bible. The nation of Israel was called to be holy; to be totally consecrated to God in all aspects of life. Peter brought the reference forward in the New Testament, “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy”” (1 Peter 1:15-16 NIV). Christian are not called to be perfect…but to be holy.

Inheritance

America’s foundation is as a Christian nation and the greatness of our country is an inheritance from God for faithfulness…albeit we are not as faithful as we once were. In the Parable of the Tenants, I picture Isis (the Islamic State) as the tenants wanting to destroy America because it belongs to the son…Christ. Jesus said, “But when the tenants saw the son, they said to each other, ‘This is the heir. Come, let’s kill him and take his inheritance.’ So they took him and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. “Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants”” (Matt 21:38-40 NIV)? Islamists are adamant about killing Americans, but Mathew makes it clear that God, in His time, will “bring those wretches to a wretched end.”

Easter Brunch

My church, like many others, held a Sunday Easter brunch. When I asked my friend Brad if his church had a brunch he said, “No, we just had the Lord’s Supper.” Touche’

Carrying Diseases

For 17 years my husband has lived with metastasized prostate cancer. From a medical perspective we know there is no cure; and from the spiritual perspective the disease has not been cured, but suppressed. As believers we are confident the Lord carries our burdens; however, I was taken aback when I read that the Lord has done more than suppress Bill’s cancer, He has carried the disease. Matthew noted that the words of the prophet Isaiah were fulfilled in Jesus, “He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases” (Matt 8:17 NIV).

Over Performance

A TV news commentator discussed Trump’s dominating the GOP win in Arizona and said, “Trump has over performed by doing better than he needs to do.” I can understand how an actor can over perform, but I’m not sure a politician garnering all the votes he can get is over performance. I’m just trying to imagine a believer being accused of over performance…and yet that is what Jesus would have us do. Jesus said, “If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles” (Matt 5:41 NIV).

Escaping Through the Flames

Yesterday a controlled burn that the man thought he put out sprang to life and devoured his neighbor’s 100 X 32-foot garage containing six vintage cars, four motorcycles and other vehicles. A family member was able to save one vintage car by pushing it out of the garage. The residence was spared, but the intense heat broke windows and damaged siding and gutters. While it is a tragic loss, the reported imagery reminds me of Paul’s caution to those building on the foundation of Jesus Christ, “If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man’s work. 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 3:12-15 NIV).

Boldness

On a walk I encountered a clean-cut boy of about 12 years-old on a razor scooter. He stopped me and wanted to know if he could ask me a question. I said, “Sure.” He said, “Do you have any cigarettes?” Seriously…I kept on walking and tossed over my shoulder, “You’re too young to smoke and if you smoke you’re going to get lung cancer!” While I was miffed at his asking me for a cigarette, I have to acknowledge his boldness with a stranger. As a believer I can learn from such unfettered boldness. James said, “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures” (James 4:3 NIV).

All Scripture

I recently visited with a local elected official in municipal government who learned of my work as a reporter and said, “Oh, I don’t read newspapers. I don’t like all the negativity, so I just don’t read any of them.” It’s one thing for an average person to avoid reading local news, but it’s quite another for an elected official to not want to know what is going on in his community, whether it is good or bad, positive or negative. Unfortunately, the church has leaders who do something similar when they focus on love and avoid sin, Satan and hell. Paul makes it clear that Scripture is not to be categorized as positive or negative, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Tim 3:16-17 NIV).

Sincere Faith

This is the time of year that property owners burn ditch banks and the smoke fills the valley. Yesterday as I drove to a neighboring town I came upon a controlled burn…that was out of control. Flames ate through cattails and climbed halfway up the small mesa devouring brush along the way. Fifteen firefighters, six fire trucks and two hours later the seven-acre fire was brought under control. The Apostle Paul identified Timothy’s sincere faith, but he didn’t want Timothy to be satisfied with a controlled faith. Paul’s words are applicable to all who have sincere faith. “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self–discipline” (2 Tim 1:6-7 NIV).

The Voice

During my visit to the square dance club I learned that square dancing calls, regardless of what country you are visiting, are always called in English. In a sense, Christians are assured of a similar level of confidence because we understand the language that comes from the Lord. Jesus said of his followers, “But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” (John 10:5 NIV).

For the Party

In a TV interview Kasich campaign spokesperson Trent Duffy addressed the potential of a GOP contested convention. Duffy said if it went to an open convention the GOP would select, “…someone who best represents the party.” Interesting. The establishment doesn’t intent to put someone forward who represents the people, but someone who represents the party. We see something similar in the church when leaders put their own agenda ahead of the spiritual needs in the body of Christ. The high priest Caiaphas, who was concerned more with politics than the innocence of Jesus, is a good example. Caiaphas said, “You know nothing at all! You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than that the whole nation perish” (John 11:49b-50 NIV)

The Caller

For my club series I recently attended a square dance club. In spite of the fact that many of these folks had been dancing together for years, there were moments of confusion that resembled a human demolition derby. I knew the dancers had to listen intently to the caller, but I was surprised at how attentive the caller was to his dancers. The caller said, “My goal is to keep everyone on the floor dancing. I want to wind up with the same eight people I started with…even if they don’t wind up with the same partner.” I’m reminded of those who listen to the call of the Lord. Jesus said, “And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all that he has given me, but raise them up at the last day”(John 6:39 NIV). 

Invitation to Join

In a call to worship the man making the announcements said, “Let’s ask God to join us.” I understand the thought behind the statement, but the reality is that God is already with people when two or more are gathered in the Lord’s name. It’s human nature to think we can summon God to join us in an activity…and exclude Him when we don’t want Him around. We may not invite God to the bar, the bedroom, or a social activity; however, the Spirit lives within the believer and has an open invitation to all our activities. The Apostle Paul said, “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you” (1 Cor 3:16 NIV)?

FYI

FYI - I’m not sure how many Christian Ear followers may be affected, but this is the info put out by Blogger, the host of Christian Ear: “As part of this plan, starting the week of January 11, we’ll remove the ability for people with Twitter, Yahoo, Orkut or other OpenId providers to sign in to Google Friend Connect and follow blogs. At the same time, we’ll remove non-Google Account profiles so you may see a decrease in your blog follower count… At the same time, we’ll remove non-Google Account profiles so you may see a decrease in your blog follower count… We encourage you to tell affected readers (perhaps via a blog post), that if they use a non-Google Account to follow your blog, they need to sign up for a Google Account, and re-follow your blog.”

The Mission

I attended a meeting of the Humanist, Atheist, Freethinker, Agnostic (HAFTA) and was surprised by the lack of organization and structure. John, who was attending for the second time said, “Do we have a mission? What do you think is the mission [of the group]? Maybe we could say what we think?” I wonder if the premise of being a freethinker could in fact keep these folks from ever having a cohesive mission. I can’t help but reflect on the body of Christ and today’s churches coming up with mission and vision statements because people are asking, “What is our mission?  Jesus said, “If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you” (John 15:10-12 NIV).

The Appointed Time

In speaking about signs of the end of the age Jesus said, “No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come” (Mark 13:32-33 NIV). Certainly demons would not be privy to the appointed time, but I find it curious that they have a sense of their own appointed time. When Jesus encountered two demon possessed men they said, “What do you want with us, Son of God?” they shouted. “Have you come here to torture us before the appointed time” (Matt 8:29 NIV)?

The Measure You Use

Max Lucado, best-selling author and well known pastor, jumped into the political fray and during a TV news interview denounced Donald Trump as not being a Christian. Lucado now seems to be softening his thoughts and said he, “…believes the Republican presidential candidate is giving Christians a bad name.” I am astounded that a minister of Lucado’s stature and biblical knowledge would publically judge another. Jesus said, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Matt 7:1-2 NIV).

My Example Is He

The atheist took exception to a local religion columnist writing about Brother Lawrence who spent 40 years washing dishes for those in need. The atheist said, “I thought his time could have been better spent doing something more productive than washing dishes.” It’s curious that those in the world feel they are qualified to judge the service of people of faith. Jesus did not consider the time he spent washing the feet of the disciples as unproductive. He said, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him” (John 13:14-16 NIV).

Public Rejection

For a series of articles on local clubs I attended the monthly meeting of the Humanist, Atheist, Freethinker, Agnostic (HAFTA). While making introductions with participants one woman ask that I not use her name in the article, “I’m only just of out-of-the-closet as an atheist.”  Her hesitation was because she had yet to tell all of her family that she has rejected God. John the Baptist testified about Jesus, “The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him” (John 3:35-36 NIV).

Disqualified

Recently I, along with two others, judged a speech contest. Our scores were tabulated together to reveal a first, second and third place winner. As the awards were handed out I was stunned that the person who deserved first place wasn’t even in the top three. I couldn’t believe that the other two judges could have gotten it so wrong. It was only as the meeting came to a close that we learned the woman who was most deserving of first place was disqualified because she went over her allotted time of two minutes and 30 seconds. Paul not only speaks of himself, but to us as well, when he talks about avoiding disqualification, “Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize” (1 Cor 9:26-27 NIV).

In An Instant

There is discussion and debate on the religious landscape concerning the Lord’s return and how it might be possible that “every eye will see him” at one moment in time (Rev 1:7). I find it curious that people often try to use a spiritual litmus test for events that accompany the work of Jesus, yet no one bats an eye at the supernatural events associated with the devil. After 40 days in the dessert Jesus was tempted by the devil, “The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world” (Luke 4:5 NIV).

Stumbling Block

An older teenager sped past me on a skateboard and when he was a few yards in front of me he flew headfirst over his board. In what seemed like one seamless motion he rolled a couple of times, sprang to his feet and said, “I hate rocks!”  Rubbing his hand, he jumped back on the skateboard and kept going. When I got to the place where he took his spill I could see the pebbles on the path that were likely the cause of the derailment. I’m now wondering how often we, consciously or not, put pebbles on someone’s spiritual path. Paul said, “We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited” (2 Cor 6:3 NIV).

Setting Aside Your Rights

During an adult Sunday school a participant offered their thoughts, but the discussion leader came right behind them with a verbal eraser and wiped out their comment. It’s unfortunate that many teachers and leaders get so focused on their prepared train of thought that they fail to see the Spirit speaking through those others they are leading. If we were in a worldly setting most of us would fight for the right to have our opinion heard. However, following the example of Paul, believers often set aside their own rights, “But we did not use this right. On the contrary, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ” (1 Cor 9:12b NIV).

My Shield

Sheriff’s officer Sgt. Sanders introduced the audience to Oxx, his K-9 narcotics dog. “In a criminal apprehension you have three chances to surrender…after that you’re fair game. We will send in the dog and he will bite…but we never send in a dog to fight by himself.” It’s a good reminder to believers that the Lord too never sends us into battle by ourselves. “Praise be to the LORD my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle. He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me” (Ps 144:1-2 NIV).

Self-Serving

I overheard a speaker admitting to his friend that portions of his presentation were self-serving. I chuckled to myself because he wasn’t revealing anything that the audience hadn’t already picked up on. In the church we are to be on alert to those who are self-serving. Paul said, “I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people” (Ro 16:17-18 NIV).

Forcefully Advancing

Many of us have our eyes fixated on ISIS and Islamic terrorists as they forcefully advance across the Middle East. The media provides graphics and maps showing us, often in real time, how the movement is spreading. I think we believers are often guilty of being shortsighted because we fail to recognize, or entertain the thought, that the kingdom of heaven is also advancing and spreading. Jesus said, “From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it” (Matt 11:12 NIV).

Tell Me Again

An event organizer encouraged a community leader to attend a meeting and after it was over he said, “Tell me again…Why am I here?” It occurs to me that we often have a similar situation in the church. We invite friends and family to join us in worship, but they then leave the service thinking, “Tell me again…Why did I come?” Unfortunately, in today’s culture the functions of the early church are often swallowed up by programs, entertainment and tradition. The fellowship of believers is described by Luke, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles… And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (Luke 2:42-43, 47b NIV).

Ambassadors

I recently had the opportunity to hear a presentation by Gary Grappo, former U.S. Ambassador to Oman. Ambassador Grappo related how difficult it is to get information on time sensitive threats out to the public. “When you are an Ambassador you are concerned for the safety, security and welfare of the Americans where you are assigned. The worst news an American Ambassador can get is a phone call in the middle of the night that something has happened to an American citizen.” For me, the ambassador’s comments offered an interesting perspective that can be applied to believers and our role as Ambassadors for Christ. Paul said, “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God” (2 Cor 5:20 NIV).

Deception

The political landscape is littered with candidates and their campaign personnel accusing one another of lying, distorting records and manipulating the truth. Such tactics are prevalent in the world, but it’s disconcerting to also find them in the church. Paul wrote to the Thessalonians about a similar situation, “Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to him, we ask you, brothers, not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by some prophecy, report or letter supposed to have come from us, saying that the day of the Lord has already come. Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way…” (2 Thess 2:2-3a NIV).

Plainly

I attended an Archaeological Society meeting and the topic of prehistoric rock art panels had the potential to be dry, dusty and over my head. The speaker said, “If you know your topic you can talk about it in terms that people can understand.” Jesus often spoke figuratively using parables, which at time confused even His disciples. Jesus was a master at using parables as a tool, but for those of us entrusted with spreading the Gospel, speaking so people can understand is imperative. Jesus’ disciples said to Him, “Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God” (John 16:29-30 NIV).

Full-Grown

Sometime I’ll run into someone I haven’t seen for a long time and I’m taken aback by how their kids have grown. It’s hard to believe the children have gotten so big…and so fast. I suspect many of us have a similar reaction when we come face to face with the sin in our lives. We’re shocked by how quickly it is becoming full-grown. James tells us, “…but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full–grown, gives birth to death” (James 1:14-15 NIV).

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).