Leader-Less

I talk to those in club leadership who are often oblivious to the history, background and current status of their club. They have stepped forward to volunteer in the administration of the club and understand how to run a meeting; however, they are disconnected from the mission statement. I’m reminded of Paul’s observation of Jews, “Some have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk. They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm” (1 Tim 1:6-7 NIV). It is imperative that we believers understand our mission.

Freedom in Christ

The United States of America was born out of the right for self-determination and with that right is the reminder that freedom is never free…it is bought with a price. There are similarities in being an American and in being a Christian. Christians are born again through Jesus Christ and Paul reminds us, “You were bought at a price…” (1 Cor 7:23a NIV). Happy Independence Day!

They Call It Good

The Obama administration just announced that transgenders may now serve openly in the Armed Forces and they are entitled to drugs that will enhance their sexual preference. I doubt if the President, or members of Congress, would ever consider living with transgenders in an open barracks, with open showers and no privacy. And yet this is what is forced on those who are under the authority of the Commander and Chief because he has determined it to be good. “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter” (Isaiah 5:20 NIV).

To-Do List

The older I get the more I make lists to remind me of what I need to get done for the day. We have company coming for the holiday weekend, so I have a list for the grocery store, a list for household chores, and a to-do list for Bill. I’ve never compiled, nor do I know anyone who has ever compiled, a spiritual list of to-do’s. I get the sense the Paul is recommending we add spiritual things to our to-do list. “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Col 3:1-2 NIV).

Out of Her Poverty

Yesterday when leaving Home Depot an elderly woman, who appeared to be 80ish, sat on a walker under a tree on the grassy median. She was alone with no transportation in sight and held a cardboard sign that read, “Hard times, need help.” I’ve seen a lot of men of various ages and transient couples with their dogs panhandling, but this was a first. I wondered, “How did you get yourself situated on this grassy knoll? Where is your family? And why are you begging on the street?” I couldn’t help but compare the woman to the widow who put two very small copper coins worth a fraction of a penny into the temple treasury. Jesus called his disciple to him and said, “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 NIV).

Consultation

On the religious landscape when believers feel they are being led by the Spirit to start a mission they consult with friends, family and church leaders. It’s almost as though we’re looking for blessing, approval or support from others…or that we feel inadequate and want others to help share the load. Embarrassingly, not many of us are as confident and obedient as the Apostle Paul, “But when God, who set me apart from birth and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not consult any man, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went immediately into Arabia and later returned to Damascus” (Gal 1:15-17 NIV).

Christ Has Been Preached

It was the Apostle Paul’s ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known and he had already preached from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum. Paul wrote in Romans, “But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions…” (Ro 15:23a NIV). The United States is a Christian nation and I’m now trying to wrap my head around Paul telling my local community that there is no more place for him to work in this region.

The Prodigal

At an event I sat with a fellow believer who ministers to the homeless. He introduced me to one of his acquaintances and after the man left Jim encouraged me to write a human interest story about the man. The man and his wife, who was recovering from a miscarriage, had been homeless for two months. They recently found housing and were trying get their children back from social services. I told Jim I had reservations about writing a story because the man reeked of alcohol. Disappointment spread across Jim’s face, “Really, was he drinking?” The real story of a prodigal is not that a man is homeless and wanting to eat pods with the pigs…the testimony and story lies in a man coming home to the Father.

Fear of the Message

Ron talked to me about his brother, Bob, who hasn’t taken very good care of himself physically.  After a recent life threatening situation Ron said, “I think Bob knew he had problems, but he was afraid to go to the doctor. He was afraid of what he might hear.” Ron then went on to say, “I’m wondering if that’s why some people don’t go to church…they are afraid of what they might hear.” Ron has a point. I have this image of the men who were furious and gnashed their teeth at the testimony of Stephen. When Stephen said he saw the Son of Man Standing at the right hand of God it was more than they could take and I suspect there was an element of fear. “At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him” (Acts 7:57-58b NIV).

On the Same Side

Some veterans have a hard time transitioning to civilian life and they yearn to once again be in command of men. Recently one such Marine put out a call to local veteran organizations to rally at a county commissioner meeting in order to verbally ambush a county commissioner. The circulated email stated, “Please work your schedule around this meeting as it’s important for us to support each other as veterans…” Interestingly the targeted commissioner is himself a veteran. Even in the body of Christ denominations have been known to target one another and go after each other. John saw a man driving out demons in the name of Jesus and tried to stop him. “Do not stop him,” Jesus said, “for whoever is not against you is for you.” (Luke 9:50 NIV).

Self-Sufficient

The topic of our Sunday school lesson was redemption and the presenter used the story of Hosea (prophet) and Gomer (prostitute) as an example of redemption. By marrying the prostitute Hosea redeemed her; however, after bearing him children, Gomer went back to her profession. Hosea once again redeemed Gomer by purchasing her out of slavery. It strikes me that Gomer had a lucrative career in prostitution, was apparently able to feed and clothe herself, and felt she could take care of herself. It’s no wonder that evangelism is so difficult…we’re often witnessing to people who are so self-sufficient that they don’t even know they need to be redeemed.

Mission

A local middle school is in desperate need of replacement and the school district is getting ready to launch a campaign for a ballot initiative. The print media is championing the cause and praised the county for stepping up with additional funding, and the city for the promise to look for ways to support, other than financial. A recent editorial said, “So how about the remainder of the organizations — public, private nonprofit, churches or organizations? Where do you stand?” I’m startled by the suggestion that churches should step up to the plate to help fund schools. Public schools are the same organizations that removed prayer in classrooms, Ten Commandment plaques from walls, and now require restroom use to be based on sexual identification. The writer of the editorial apparently does not understand the mission of the church. Jesus said, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Matt 22:21 NIV).

Spiritually Asleep

Jairus, the ruler of the synagogue, pleaded with Jesus to come to his house because his only daughter was dying. As Jairus made his plea word came that his daughter had already died. Jesus went on to the house and when he arrived people were wailing and mourning. “Stop wailing,” Jesus said. “She is not dead but asleep” (Luke 8:52b NIV). It occurs to me that we might diagnose those who blatantly reject Jesus as being spiritually dead; however, Jesus might see them as simply being asleep.

Itching Ears

Fifty people were killed and 53 wounded in a mass shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando by an Islamist terrorist. While President Obama called it terrorism, he avoided using the word Islamic. The Islamic terrorist attack on our military base was labeled as “workplace violence.”  I’m only guessing, but I suspect the LGBT community will hold the administration’s feet to the fire and demand the attack be labeled this for what it is, Islamic terrorism. Unfortunately, we in the church can be just as guilty of watering down our own words, and those of Scripture. Paul wrote, “For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths” (2 Tim 4:3-4 NIV).

Prescription

My mother-in-law, who will soon be 93, is not happy that she can’t do the things she used to do. During a recent doctor visit the doctor was sympathetic, but told her she was in better shape than some 60 year-olds. The doctor said he didn’t want to prescribe any mood altering drugs, but then paused in mid-sentence and said, “On second thought I think I will give you a prescription. Do you have a Bible at home?” When she told him yes he said, “Okay, this is your prescription…go home and read the book of Ecclesiastes.” And she is doing as he prescribed.

Your Inner Self

During an evening walk I stumbled across five elementary children who appeared to be in the process of vandalizing a local school. I took photos of the kids and some of the damage and told them I might publish the photos in the local newspaper, or give them to the police.  I went on my way and when I was a block away from the school the mother of two of the children came charging down the road on her bicycle screaming, “Why are you messing with my kids? I’m calling 911!” Please do. She jumped off her bicycle, got in my face and demanded to see the photos I’d taken. Implying I had accosted her children and said, “You’re a disgusting old woman.” Her children were privy to their mother’s menacing outburst and she continued to throw verbal bombs at my back as I ignored the rant and simply kept walking. In hind sight I wish I had had the wherewithal to ask the mother, “Are you a Christian?” Peter reminds women, “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight” (1 Peter 1:3-4 NIV).

Unclaimed

Over the years a local funeral home changed ownership on multiple occasions. The newest owners were in the process of remodeling the facility when they discovered 170 unclaimed cremains sitting on shelves in the basement of the building…50 of which had no identification. The new owners made an effort to not only locate the next of kin, but then to have a memorial service for the cremains that remained unclaimed. I’m trying to imagine the moment of death and those souls that will go unclaimed by the Lord. 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 7:21-23NIV)!

Think About Such Things

During a communion meditation the speaker wanted the congregation to focus on the emblems that represent the body and blood of Jesus. He said, “Stop worrying about lunch, what you didn’t get done this week, and what you will do when you get home.” Immediately my mind went to thinking about what I should fix for lunch. Paul understood how our thoughts, or the thoughts of others, can lead us down a rabbit trail. He said, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Phil 4:8 NIV).

Health Care

Many folks today are in dire financial straits due to rising health care costs and insurance premiums. While we might like to point an accusatory finger at Obamacare, the reality is that throughout time healthcare expenditures often shipwreck people financially. The woman who was subject to bleeding for 12 years was caught in such a dilemma. By the time she learned of the healing power of Jesus and got close enough to touch his cloak, her situation went beyond her physical ailment, “She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse” (Mark 5:26 NIV). In the narrative she had faith to be healed and Jesus then sent her on her way, “Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” We don’t know the end of the woman’s story. I wonder if she rejoiced in her healing, or did she lament to others about the lousy doctors and her loss of financial stability.

The Greatest Commandment

When asked which was the greatest commandment in the law Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself”” (Matt 22:38-39 NIV). It occurs me that today’s church focuses more on the second commandment, than it does on the first. The religious landscape is saturated with sermons, Bible studies and books on believer’s relationships with one another. However, expository teaching, preaching and instruction is sparse when it comes to loving God with all your heart, all your soul and all your mind.

I Am a Friend

Often a praise hymn sung on Sunday gets stuck in my head for the remainder of the week. Lately the replaying praise song in my mind is, “I Am a Friend of God.” The chorus and bridge say, “I am a friend of God…He calls me friend. Lord of glory, you have called me friend.” I’ve never been fond of lyrics that put God on a human level, such as being a friend. However, I was taken aback when I read the account of Judas betraying Jesus, “Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.” Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him. Jesus replied, “Friend, do what you came for” (Matt 26:48-50 NIV).

Humbled in Greatness

Muhammad Ali is quoted as saying, “It’s hard to be humble when you are as good as I am.” I can see the Lord’s wisdom in doing whatever it takes to keep believers humble. The Apostle Paul had a lot to boast about — a man who had visions and revelations from the Lord and was caught up to paradise. Paul readily admits that it is the Lord who kept his ego in check, “To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me” (2 Cor 12:7-9 NIV).

Blind Guides

At a press conference presidential candidate Donald Trump lambasted media reporters and did some name-calling. Naturally the reporters became indignant and took offence. In true Trump fashion the candidate simply dismissed them and their indignation. I thought of a similar situation when the Pharisees and teachers of the law accused the disciples of breaking the tradition of the elders because they failed to wash their hands before eating. Jesus not only took the Pharisees to task for their accusation, but he called them hypocrites. The disciples then came to Jesus and asked, “Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?” He replied, “Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots. Leave them; they are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit” (Matt 15:12-14 NIV). 

You Told Me Not To

My mother-in-law, who will be 93 in September, is self-sufficient, lives alone and still drives. However, she occasionally has trouble with the TV cable remote and when she hits the wrong button her cable goes out. In her frustration she’ll start poking all the buttons, not just the cable remote, but the TV remote as well. Bill has told her not to touch the TV remote because it makes matters worse, but that hasn’t stopped her from trying it as a last resort. Devising different ways to remove temptation Bill put the TV remote away in a drawer, another time he taped a cautionary note to it, and then finally he took out the batteries. The other night mother called and said, “I did what you told me not to do. I got out the TV remote…I put batteries in it.” I’m starting to get an inkling of how God might feel when believers insist on being in control.

It’s Hard

During a DVD video lesson the seasoned pastor took a passage of Scripture from the New American Standard Bible (NASB). Before reading Ephesian 2:1 he apologetically prefaced the verse with, “The NASB is very literal. It’s hard to understand.” He explained that paraphrased versions, such as the Living Bible and the Message, are easier to understand. All too often I hear pastors and teachers say that elements associated with being a Christian are hard — a hard teaching, hard to obey, hard to understand, hard to accomplish, hard to walk the walk, etc. Jesus disagrees, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matt 11:29-30 NIV).

Lacking Shrewdness

I shocked myself when I admitted to a friend that I felt more appreciated and respected in the world than in the church. I suppose the thought has been in the recesses of my mind, but I’d never verbalized it before. The structure of today’s church is to grow volunteers who will follow the vision of leaders; however, secular organizations have systems in place to grow leaders, encourage leadership and pursue leadership replacements. Jesus said, “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 16:8b-9 NIV).

Whitewashed

The intent of Decoration Day, Memorial Day, was to honor and remember those who lost their lives in military service to our country. However, the memorial focus has changed into sprucing up and putting flowers on every family member’s grave. I suspect, without knowing for certain, that somewhere along the line people felt guilty for honoring only a military grave and not paying homage to their parents or grandparents graves. Meaning no disrespect to those who honor loved ones with flowers adorning grave and manicured cemeteries I find the imagery of Jesus’ illustration to be thought provoking, “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness” (Matt 23:27-28 NIV).

Picking Sides

The series of articles, with an accompanying photo, on locals who own classic cars and trucks has lots of interest. It occurs to me that unlike politics, hard news or religion, classic cars bring people together because they don’t have to pick a side. In that same vein, Paul wants us to set our minds not on what divides us, but what unites us, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Col 3:1-2 NIV).

Complete Restoration

I’m writing articles about classic car collectors and their labor intensive restoration projects. One man has been working on his pickup restoration for 11 years and the pieces and parts are scattered all over his garage. Another man, who spent three years stripping his 4X4 Ford down to the frame and doing a complete restoration, now drives his truck to car shows. Paul wrote about the need for restoration of a believer caught in a sin, “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently” (Gal 6:1a NIV). I’m not wondering how many of us might have started a spiritual restoration with a fellow believer and then rather than finishing, we left spiritual pieces and parts scattered all over place.

Selfish Ambition

During my church visits it became obvious that some organizations were misrepresenting themselves with their tax-exempt 501(c) (3) status. While I know God will hold those accountable who perpetrate fraud under the umbrella of doing kingdom work, I’m taken aback by other believers (family, friends and church leaders) who turn a blind eye to the manipulation, misuse and deception. Paul pointed out that there are those who preach Christ, not sincerely, but out of selfish ambition. It’s easier for me to set aside my indignation when I hear Paul say, “But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice” (Phil 1:18a NIV).

Restoration

Paul said, “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted” (Gal 6:1 NIV). In my mind I always though the implication was, as with the woman caught in the act of adultery, actually catching someone sinning. It just dawned on me that Paul is probably referring to someone caught up, or entangled in, a specific sinful behavior — pornography, adultery, embezzlement. The treatment for a onetime caught-in-the-act sin calls for repentance and forgiveness. However, someone ensnared in a sin becomes a long-term restoration project.

Understanding Slowness

After more than two years of petitioning the Lord, my daughter Leslie’s condo is finally under contract to sell. I’m reminded of God’s patience — whether it is waiting for one more soul to come to know Jesus, or to sell a condo. Peter said, “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:8-9 NIV). 

The Lord’s Purpose

My elderly friend is a staunch Republican who feels she can’t, on moral grounds, support Donald Trump. I understand her hesitation, but when I put it in a historical, biblical and spiritual context I don’t see the problem. David committed adultery with Bathsheba and then had her husband killed. Saul, who became Paul, persecuted the church and gave his approval to the stoning death of Stephen. Both of the men, in spite of a lack of moral character at the time, were called by God to be his chosen instruments. “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails” (Proverbs 19:21 NIV).

The Full Armor

David, my pre-teen grandson, is helping me with yard work and he continues to resist wearing gloves. He’s boy tough…Who needs gloves? He cut down last year’s growth of Pampas grass and little hairy stickers attacked his hands. The next day he cut back the Juniper bushes and received welts all over the backs of his hands. I’m reminded of Paul telling people to put on the full armor of God and I can imagine a few of the guys in the crowd saying, “Nah, I don’t need to put on the breastplate for this little job. And today I don’t think I’ll be needing the shield of faith, maybe I’ll take it up tomorrow.” The Scripture wants us fully dressed, spiritually equipped, and ready in all situations, “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph 6:14-17 NIV).

Singing His Song

A red-headed House Finch (I think) constructed a nest on top of my outside patio lights. I assume he is trying to attract a mate as he is regularly perched on the deck railing singing his little heart out while keeping a watchful eye on the nest. Early Saturday morning the neighborhood quiet was shattered when my new neighbors got into a 20-minute backyard shouting match attacking one another with four-letter words. The heated argument took place only 15 feet away from the finch, but he wasn’t frightened away, or distracted…he stayed focused and continued singing his song. I wish I could block out worldly turmoil as effortlessly as did the finch. Paul said, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Cor 4:17-18 NIV).

Kingdom Growth

Jesus used a parable about yeast permeating a batch of dough to explain growth in the kingdom, “The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough” (Matt 13:33b NIV). In my mind I’ve always imagined a woman preparing a daily portion of bread for her family. However, 60 pounds of flour seems more appropriate for a local bakery, than for a single family dinner table. I’m now wondering if the parable indicates more than just the permeating qualities of the kingdom and that the quantity of the kingdom should also be considered.

Salt of the Earth

During a television food show a bread baker demonstrating the ingredients needed for making bread said, “Don’t let your salt and yeast touch…your salt will kill your yeast.” I find the spiritual implication startling. Jesus warned his disciples to be on guard against the yeast (the teaching) of the Pharisees and the Sadducees (Matt 16: 5-12). Jesus also said of his disciples, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men” (Matt 5:13). For me the spiritual connotation is that I can do more than just be on guard against erroneous teaching. If I maintain my saltiness I can actually kill the false teaching of the modern day Pharisees and Sadducee!

God’s Will

Many Christians are beside themselves at the thought of Donald Trump becoming the Republican nominee, much less the President of the United States. Their distress is so great that, similar to the Babylonian captivity, you’d think America is being led into captivity and were all about to be executed. It’s important to remember that regardless of who becomes the next Commander in Chief, that person can only attain the position if it is God’s will. Daniel said, “Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him” (Daniel 2:20-22 NIV).

Out to Lunch

For a medical test at the VA hospital I was restricted to clear liquids for 24 hours and then nothing for 12 hours before the procedure. When my test was competed I went to the pharmacy to pick up a prescription that was ordered 2 ½ hours earlier; however, the prescription was not ready and the pharmacy technician blew me off about how busy they were. I marched down to the Patient Advocate who opened his door with his fast food sandwich in hand and jokingly said, “I’m out to lunch.” Excuse me…I haven’t had anything to eat for over 24 hours. Once I had the advocates attention, three hours after the fact, the prescription was quickly filled. Contemplating advocacy, I’m grateful that Jesus, who is the believer’s advocate and intercessor, is never out to lunch. “Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us” (Ro 8:34 NIV).

At a Loss

For years now there have been lawsuits and community upheaval involving the county, the airport fixed base operator (FBO), and the political pot-stirrers.  It was just reported in the media that the FBO has been sold, which in effect eliminates the catalyst for all the angst. I now have this image of the pot-stirrers being at a loss without a cause. In some respects, the disciples found themselves at a similar loss when Jesus was crucified. On the third day after the crucifixion Jesus appeared to two disciples on the road to Emmaus and walked with them. The men were downcast and explained about Jesus of Nazareth, “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel” (Luke 24:19-21a NIV).

Told You So

When someone ignores my good advice, and it turns out I was right, it’s hard for me not to say, “I told you so.” The Apostle Paul was taken to Rome by ship when the sailing weather turned bad and his warning that the voyage would be dangerous to life and a great loss to the ship and the cargo was ignored. At first blush it might seem that Paul did the I-told-you-so-dance, “After the men had gone a long time without food, Paul stood up before them and said: “Men, you should have taken my advice not to sail from Crete; then you would have spared yourselves this damage and loss”” (Acts 27:21). However, I see Paul using this I-told-you-so as a way to take charge of the situation and establish a foundation of authority and leadership. When the captain, the crew and the centurion finally took Paul’s advice, everyone reached land in safety.

The Look of Faith

Generally speaking, Christians are hesitant to evaluate the spiritual attributes we observe in others because we don’t want to be accused of being judgmental, or unqualified. The Apostle Paul encountered a man in Lystra who was lame from birth and had never walked. The crippled man listened to Paul as he was speaking and, “Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed and called out, “Stand up on your feet!” At that, the man jumped up and began to walk” (Acts 14:9-10 NIV). During this brief encounter Paul not only saw faith in the man, but he evaluated the man's faith. I’m now wondering what faith looks like. Can I see the faith to be healed in others… and can they see it in me?

Meet the Press

Yesterday I attended a National Day of Prayer breakfast and was seated with the “Arts, Entertainment and Media” group. Amongst the almost 80 attendees were many prominent community leaders…those of the world and those of faith. Interestingly it was the local newspaper publisher who garnered the most attention, recognition and respect. I came away from the event with the vision of the church bowing before a modern day asherah pole. It was as though people of faith felt they needed to ingratiate themselves to the media in order to get their message out. Jesus did not send the 12 out to meet the press, but rather He instructed them, “As you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near’” (Matt 10:7 NIV). 

Share in the Ministry

I’ve been attending board meetings of an organization whose executive director, rather than delegating work and training others, continues to put on more and more hats. There is no doubt he feels he is doing a good job holding things together. However, from a public perspective the situation is taking on the appearance of an unhealthy one-man-show. Rather than holding things together, things are falling through the cracks. Today’s church is not immune to the one-man-show scenario and many leaders of faith focus on control, rather than on the mission. In the early church the Twelve Apostles understood the importance of the mission, “So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:2-4 NIV).

Wick

My husband finished his ice cream and then added water to the bowl and sat it in the sink to soak. The next morning only chocolate residue was left in the empty bowl. Apparently one of us tossed the dishcloth into the sink where it landed half in and half out of the bowl. All night long the dishcloth wicked the water from the bowl into the drain. I now have this image of sin’s tentacles, those not completely dealt with, being able to wick away at the believer’s faith. Isaiah wrote, “Woe to those who draw sin along with cords of deceit, and wickedness as with cart ropes…” (Isaiah 5:18 NIV).

Quarreling About Words

Just prior to my adult Sunday school class a man complained to me about people on the internet cherry-picking Scripture to support their ideas. However, during the class he himself did something similar when he declared, “You don’t have to be baptized to be saved. Just look to the thief on the cross…” The man then went on to cherry-pick Scripture which related to salvation, but excluded the act of baptism. Paul said, “Keep reminding them of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:14-15 NIV).

Know Your Audience

I attended a meeting of an astronomy club and the scientific presentation was way over my head. I later called the presenter to get some clarification and he was taken aback that his information came across as deep. I can understand his discomfort. On the religious landscape mature believers would cringe if our presentations were over the heads of our audience. However, it occurs to me that many of the sermons we hear today have shifted to shallow simply because teachers fear talking over the heads of those in the congregation. Jesus proved that a simple message can have depth (parables). However, Jesus also knew his audience — the Pharisees and little children were not taught in the same style, or manner.

Legacy

The media is always writing about President Obama’s push to make policy that will “add to his legacy.” I find it curious that today’s politicians feel they can write their own story, rather than letting history determine whether or not they were accomplished leaders. In my mind the legacy of a believer is not so much what they accomplished on earth, but what they were able to pass on to others, or pass down to future generations. Paul wrote of such a legacy in the family of Timothy, “I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also” (2 Tim 1:5).

Diagnosis

Before getting the diagnosis on Bill’s pelvic fracture some friends and family offered suggestions of alternative doctors, specialists and treatments. While I appreciate the suggestions, all of them seemed premature while we were still in the process of running tests. On the religious landscape people of faith do something similar when we diagnosis one another’s spiritual health. Jesus’ disciples asked about a man they encountered who had been blind from birth, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind” (John 9:2 NIV). I suppose the disciples had visions of sending the man to the priest, or a doctor specializing in sin, rather than to The Healer.

Weak Flesh

Last week Bill’s medical tests revealed he has a fractured pelvis. While it is extremely painful, he can sit on pillows in a recliner and get some relief. Bill can’t sit on a regular chair, or walk without a cane, but last week from the comfort of his recliner his mind told him he could go to church on Sunday, make a run to Home Depot for some handicapped bars, and have coffee with the guys on Wednesday. Many of us can relate to the Jesus’ observation about His disciples, “…The spirit is willing, but the body is weak” (Matt 26:41b NIV).

Briers and Thorns

In a recent newspaper article on property rights a spokesperson said, “Weeds don’t know a boundary unless they tumble up against a fence.”  The “Song of the Vineyard” gives a clear description of what becomes of the land when the hedge, or the fence, is removed. “Now I will tell you what I am going to do to my vineyard: I will take away its hedge, and it will be destroyed; I will break down its wall, and it will be trampled. I will make it a wasteland, neither pruned nor cultivated, and briers and thorns will grow there. I will command the clouds not to rain on it” (Isaiah 5:5-6 NIV).

Emergencies

Bill and I were in the waiting room of the regional medical oncology center when an 84-year-old man on oxygen crumpled and fell to the floor. The lobby became a whirlwind of no less than 20 nurses, doctors and aids who were equipped with a wheeled blood pressure monitor, a defibrillator, and an oxygen mask.  Once the man regained consciousness and was able to speak the EMT’s, who were dispatched from across the street, arrived with lights and sirens ablaze. It strikes me that mature believers, who are certainly equipped to handle a spiritual emergency when someone falls into sin, could take a lesson from our medical counterparts. Paul said, “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal 6:1-2 NIV).

Bended Knee

I attended a meeting of the local Botanical Society and prior to the program the president made a pitch to those who might want to join and become members. She said, “Some people think that in order to join you have to get your hands dirty, or bend low [planting and weeding]. That’s just not so.” I understand the intent of her comment and in the church evangelism is similar in that it encourages people to come to the Lord just as they are. However, leaders and others who are mature in faith often neglect to tell new believers that in order for them to grow and mature in the Lord, they will indeed get their hands dirty and bend low. Paul said, “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).

Desires of Youth

During my exercise walks I watched, over period of weeks, as young vandals demolished one of the stick built dugouts on the elementary school ball field. Even though the destruction was reported to the authorizes, it didn’t stop the vandalism from escalating to arson and the dugout was recently burned to the ground. I can’t help but wonder at the lack of parenting, but I’m having a hard time understanding why these young vandals would destroy something that was built for them and their peers. Paul reminds us to, “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). 

Child Abuse

In a neighboring community the Atheists, Agnostics and Freethinkers want to stop religious literature (Gideon Bibles) from being made available in middle schools. This group was afforded the same rights and they were allowed to put satanic literature, some of which was cartoonish, on a table in the school. I understand what the Atheists are trying to do. However, their battle is with school policy and policy makers. The willingness of these adults to use children as pawns is inexcusable. Jesus said, “And if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone tied around his neck” (Mark 9:42 NIV). 

Reputation

I’ve known a few women who’ve made some very poor choices when it comes to the men in their life. After six marriages and divorces it’s hard not to do an eye roll when I hear they have once again found Prince Charming and a new Knight in Shining Armor. Let me admit that if I were one of the townsfolks who heard the testimony of the Samaritan woman who returned from Jacob’s Well after an encounter with Jesus I’d have said, “Yah right. You’ve met another man and he has told you everything you’ve ever done. We in the town know your reputation and we too can tell you everything you’ve ever done!” However, the point of the woman’s testimony is not her reputation, but that looking for the Messiah was in the forefront of her mind. “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ” (John 4:29 NIV)?

Orderly Worship

Throughout the adult Sunday school-hour a charismatic brother with a booming voice interjected, “Thank you Jesus, Praise the Lord, Hallelujah…” Often his adulation drowned out the prayer requests and the teacher’s comments. His hand clapping, sidebar commentary and repeating the teacher’s words actually drew my attention to him and away from the Lord. No one wants to squelch the Spirit living in our charismatic brothers; however, Paul calls us to orderly worship, “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace” (1 Cor 14:33 NIV).

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).