Self-Serving

Elections are just around the corner for all levels of government. As a voter I’m discouraged by candidates whose agenda is more self-serving than it is constituent-serving. Seldom do I see a candidate whose motives for running have no strings attached. That being said, I really should not be surprised and just accept the fact that those offering political favors will always be with us. Over a two-year period, while Paul was under guard, he was afforded the opportunity to speak before Governor Felix. “As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self–control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, “That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him” (Acts 24:25-26 NIV).

Arousing God’s Anger

My mother-in-law, Ruth, who will soon to be 95 years-old, lives with us. After we put in her change of address she became inundated with bulk mail from charities, social cause organizations and health related businesses that say they will help her live long and prosper. Almost daily she says, “Where is all this stuff coming from? I didn’t order anything and I don’t know who this is.” I now have a better understanding of how easily it is for elderly people living alone to be taken advantage of and targeted. I’m beginning to view these organizations, not as someone with a good cause and doing a good work, but as scammers. God has special concern for those who need protection, “Do not take advantage of a widow or an orphan. If you do and they cry out to me, I will certainly hear their cry. My anger will be aroused, and I will kill you with the sword; your wives will become widows and your children fatherless” (Ex 22:22-24 NIV).

Good Friday

Thank You, Jesus, for the cross. Jesus said, “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life” (John 3:14-15 NIV).

The Table

I have a huge stack of old 78 records that belonged to my grandma; however, they mean nothing to me even though they have been in the family for more than 75 years. On the other hand, I use and treasure her old oak dining room table because it is the same table I sat around and ate meals on when growing up. Today as I sit at this beloved table for meals it’s easy for memories to resurface in my mind. I find I have a similar experience when I come around the Lord’s table during communion on Sunday. After years of communing with the Lord around this beloved table the memories of His life and death are refreshed in my mind. Paul wrote, “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes” (1 Cor 11:26 NIV).

Brought Low

The painter we hired to do the interior of our house is in his late 60’s. As he was masking the laundry room baseboard he got down on the floor and then couldn’t get up because there wasn’t anything to grab hold of for support. Bill ask him why he didn’t call us so we could give him a helping hand. He laughed and unabashed said, “Because of pride.” The wisdom in Proverbs rings with truth, “A man’s pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor” (Proverbs 29:23 NIV).

Call for the Elders

My current church leadership, which has dwindled to less than a handful of men, continues to turn a blind eye to the fact that their controlling and authoritative style of leadership is unhealthy and causing the church to be sick. A few weeks ago, the chair of the church board was a cheerleader at the podium saying how great things were going…then Sunday his written resignation was read. He has not attended worship in a few weeks and his family is looking for another church. So, the path he helped design for our congregation is now no longer the path he wants to be on. Hmm… Our church has numerous men who were previously preachers, elders — they have just opted out of official leadership. It’s time to call on these self-retired spiritual leaders. James said, “Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven” (James 5:13-15 NIV).

Just Punishment

Attorney General Jeff Sessions fired FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe and the media is in a frenzy. For the talking heads it is not a matter of whether Sessions was justified in firing McCabe, but that President Trump somehow had a hand in it and that McCabe will lose a portion of his retirement. For his part, McCabe wants his offences overlooked simply because he has worked for the FBI for decades, he considers himself a dedicated public servant and he doesn’t want his reputation tarnished. I’m reminded of the criminals who were crucified on either side of Jesus. “One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Christ? Save yourself and us!” But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong” (Lurk 23:39-41 NIV).

Speaking Beyond Your Authority

When I served on city council, the city attorney and the city insurance carrier went to great lengths to make sure elected officials did not speak on their own and expose the city to a lawsuit. A couple of weeks ago a local city councilman went rogue and publicly took a resident to task and now fellow citizens are now calling for his resignation. I’m reminded of Moses who presumed himself to be the deliverer of his Hebrew brothers and killed an Egyptian. “Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not” (Acts 7:25). The response from his fellow Hebrews was, “Who made you ruler and judge over us? Are you thinking of killing me as you killed the Egyptian” (Ex 2:14a NIV)? Believers can easily fall into the same temptation when we feel that the title of Christian allows us to speak for God.

Reconciled

In a secular sphere my political enemy and I keep our distance. However, this man and I attend the same church and although we don’t come close to greeting one another with a holy kiss, as fellow believers we've always been cordial. Well, at least we were cordial until last Sunday when I tried to make eye contact and say “good morning.” He brushed past me with a look of disdain and even though I turned around and followed him for a few steps calling out his name, he would not respond. Jesus said, “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift” (Matt 5:23-24).  I get what the Lord is saying, but reconciliation takes two.

Wicked Thoughts

When Simon the Sorcerer saw the Spirt was given by the laying on of the apostles’ hands he offered money to buy the ability from the apostles. Peter answered: “May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God” (Acts 8:19b-21 NIV). It’s not simply that Simon wanted to buy the gift of God for himself, he wanted to buy a franchise, “…so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” Simon was a baptized believer and serves as a good example of how easily a wicked thought can come into our heart. 

Making a Mockery

Comedians and news anchors continue to publicly mock President Trump’s appointees who profess their faith in God. Using Christians as targets for mockery comes with the territory and I would like to be able to say, “Father, forgive them because they know not what they do.” But the reality is that they do know what they are doing. Their comments are calculated and they mock not only people of faith, but Christ and God as well. Paul said, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life” (Gal 6:7-8 NIV).

The Betrayer

In anyone’s circle of friends there is always knowledge, or suspicion, of what a person is capable of. I find it curious that when Jesus announced one of his disciples would betray him, “His disciples stared at one another, at a loss to know which of them he meant. One of them, the disciple whom Jesus loved, was reclining next to him. Simon Peter motioned to this disciple and said, “Ask him which one he means.” Leaning back against Jesus, he asked him, “Lord, who is it” (John 13:22-25 NIV)? It’s hard to imagine that the disciples were clueless as to who the betrayer might be.

Where are you from?

When I do interviews one of the basic questions I ask is, “Are you a local, if not where did you come from and what brought you to western Colorado?” Jesus was brought before Pilate and he found no basis for a charge against him. However, the Jews and the chief priests wanted Jesus crucified on the charge that he claimed to be the Son of God. “When Pilate heard this, he was even more afraid, and he went back inside the palace. “Where do you come from?” he asked Jesus, but Jesus gave him no answer” (John 19:8-9 NIV). I’m trying to imagine the blood draining form Pilate’s face if Jesus would have told him what he told his disciples, “For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me” (John 6:38 NIV).

Revolving Door

One police offer shared his frustration with repeat offenders, “We see a lot of the same names. Criminals get out of jail and go back and commit the same crime. Some people just don’t want help.” I’m reminded of the man at the pool in Jerusalem that was near the Sheep Gate. Jesus approached a man who had been an invalid for 38 years and said, “Do you want to get well” (John 5:6b NIV)? At first blush I want to answer for the invalid, “Well of course I want to get well.” However, the police officer’s experience with career criminals is not so far removed from other walks of life, including that of believers…some people simply don’t want help or healing.

In Spirit and In Truth

In Spirit and In Truth

Some people reject corporate worship and feel they can worship outdoors in nature just as well as in the church. For many of us the church building is our place of worship. Jesus said to the Samaritan woman, “Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth” (John 4:21-24 NIV). I’m wondering if the worship in spirit and in truth is getting lost in the forest, the mountains and the church building.

Braggart

I interviewed a law enforcement officer and it was like pulling teeth to get him to talk. He would answer my questions, but not elaborate on the answer. Even though he was an ex-Marine, I finally asked him if he was humble, or just shy. He said, “I don’t want to be a braggart.”  While I can appreciate his reservations, I was concerned his lack of response might come across flat and monotone on the written page. Similarly, when believers downplay their faith for fear of sounding boastful, their testimony and witness can be marginalized. The Psalmist wrote, “In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise your name forever” (Ps 44:8 NIV).

Worldly Leadership

Two Sunday’s ago, a candidate for an assistant pastor position interviewed at our church. The candidate presented a well-prepared message and I requested his email address. Our current pastor said, “I feel the church board has an obligation of protecting all of [the candidate name’s] information at this point.  I hope you will be patient while I see what the rest of the board thinks about giving out the e-mail address.” Seriously? The church leadership wants to protect a pastoral candidate from a fellow believer’s email? It is sad and troubling when pastors and elders succumb to the manipulation and leadership tactics of the world. Paul said, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Ro 12:2 NIV).

Little Things

Jesus told his disciples, “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest (Luke 12:25-26 NIV)? I’m struck by the fact that the Lord considers it a little thing to add single hour to our life. However, I suppose that in the Lord’s view nothing is really that big. “For nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37 NIV).

Sober Judgment

While seated at the dais during a city council meeting a councilman went on a tirade against a citizen for displaying a Confederate flag on his house. The elected official had seen the flag as he drove by the residence and then publicly chastised the citizen saying that the flag represented hatred and racism. He then proceeded to announced the homeowner’s address. Obviously, the councilman misused his position of authority. I’ve seen a similar tactic used in the church by leaders who lord their authority over the congregation. Paul said, “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others” (Ro 12:3-5 NIV).

You’re Responsible

We are to confess our sins to one another; however, that does not take the place of asking for forgiveness. Judas betrayed the Lord for 30 silver coins and he then confessed to the Pharisees, “I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.” Interesting, they responded, “What is that to us?” they replied. “That’s your responsibility” (Matt 27:4 NIV). On this point I happen to agree with the Pharisees…it is our individual responsibility to ask for forgiveness and repair our relationship with the Lord.

 

Worth a Denarius

Last Friday the Reverend Billy Graham was laid to rest. An evangelist for over eight decades, I have confidence this man of God will be great in the kingdom of heaven. However, some of us struggle with the idea that anyone who has been a Christian for only a year is worth as much to God as the esteemed Billy Graham. In the parable of the Workers in the Vineyard Jesus said, “For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire men to work in his vineyard. He agreed to pay them a denarius for the day and sent them into his vineyard.” On the third, sixth, ninth and eleventh hour the landowner did the same thing and hired more men. At the end of the day some men grumbled when they learned all the men hired were paid the same wage, one denarius. The landowner said to them, “Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn’t you agree to work for a denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ So the last will be first, and the first will be last.” (Matt 20:1, 13-16 NIV).

Ask, Seek, Knock

Jesus said, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened” (Matt 7:7-8 NIV). The NIV Study Bible foot note explains, “Greek imperatives are used here, indicating constant asking, seeking and knocking.” I’m trying to picture myself standing before the Lord and He wants me to give an accounting for the times and situations in my life when I stopped asking, seeking and knocking.

Signs of the Times

I have numerous family members who are in their 80’s and 90’s and struggling with being elderly. Not only are they losing what they perceive as control of their lives, they are losing physical strength, have less energy and suffer with aches and pains. It’s almost as though over the last several years they have ignored the signs of aging and they are not mentally prepared. Although the Pharisees and Sadducees were asking Jesus for a miraculous sign, I find the Lord’s response to be applicable in interpreting the signs in our lives. Jesus said, “When evening comes, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,’ and in the morning, ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times” (Matt 16:2-3 NIV).

Jesus Calms Our Storms

There are times when I’m in a furious storm and the waves of responsibilities, deadlines, and commitments are sweeping over me. Similar to the disciple’s storm experience it feels like the Lord is sleeping and I want to wake him and say, “Lord, save me! I’m going to drown!” Just as Jesus told the disciples, he also tells me, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him” (Matt 8:26-27)! 

Breath of Fresh Air

My grandparents homesteaded in the canyon lands of southeastern Colorado. The canyon where they built the house, outbuildings and corral was relatively narrow, which somewhat protected the structures from the storms that hit the prairie above the canyon. However, on a still day the canyon could also cut off any chance of having a breath of fresh air. The lack of wind, a breeze, or any air movement on a summer afternoon and throughout the night was stifling. Grandma placed box fans and oscillating desk fans all over the six-bedroom house just to stir the air. I’m now contemplating the earth without wind. John said, “After this I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds of the earth to prevent any wind from blowing on the land or on the sea or on any tree” (Rev 7:1 NIV).

New Creation

On the TV series American Pickers, a collector of old motorcycles told the host, “They're not worth anything if they're restored.” It occurs to me that many believers confuse being reborn with being restored. For instance, when we come to Jesus we want to be cleaned-up, polished and restored to our former selves. I suppose it’s because, generally speaking, we like ourselves and we’d prefer being refurbished rather than recreated. Paul said, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation” (2 Cor 5:17-19 NIV).

Lording Authority Over Others

Some denominations utilize a vote of confidence to show that the majority continue to support those in leadership — preachers, elders and deacons. My congregation does not have such a tool in their tool box. I just learned that one of the elders, who was not only instrumental in starting the church, but also served as pastor for a number of years, resigned from his elder position. The resignation took place some months ago; however, the congregation has not been notified. Rather than serving the membership, the lack of transparency from the leadership is self-serving, has the appearance of lording authority over others and smacks of worldly manipulation. When a dispute arose with the 12 disciples on who was the greatest, Jesus said, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves” (Luke 22:27 NIV).

Well Done Good and Faithful Servant

In the 1960’s my grandma took me to a Billy Graham Crusade in Denver. Following the message, I watched as thousands of people responded to the altar call, left their stadium seats and filed onto the stadium floor to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Across the country pastors and church leadership criticized Graham’s methods claiming he did not know the heart of the respondents. Were they repentant, did they confess sin and did they really understand the meaning of becoming a Christian? The apostles were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. The priests, captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees were greatly disturbed, “They seized Peter and John, and because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day. But many who heard the message believed, and the number of men grew to about five thousand” (Acts 4:3-4 NIV).

Memorabilia

A friend went to a garage sale and bought a signed softball for fifty-cents. She then gifted me with the collector item because my signature was on the ball as one who played in the local 1988 All Star Game. I had to laugh…the 30-year-old softball was in much better condition than those of us who signed the ball. The signatures brought back memories and it occurs to me that biblical genealogy, as dry as it sometimes seems, is more than a historical record, it is a walk down memory lane. “A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham: Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers…” (Matt 1:1-2 NIV). 

Flying in Formation

We have a lot of geese who winter in the area and last weekend about 80-100 were flying back to the city pond in wind gusts of over 40 MPH. Over a quarter mile radius some strained to fly in a line, others grouped in small V-shaped clusters and a few stragglers struggled to find their place. Their temporary dysfunction made me realized that a similar situation occurs in the church. Many of us, especially church leadership, expect believers to fly in formation rather than function as a God-designed body part. Paul said, “The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink” (1 Cor 12:12-13 NIV). 

Rebuking the Lord

In what appears to be an attempt to empathize and sympathize with the congregation one pastor commiserates with them about how hard it is to walk the Christian walk. Most recently he quoted a passage of Scripture where Jesus said, “Oh you of little faith…” Then adding his opinion, the pastor said, “I think that was a little harsh.” The pastor’s rebuke of the Lord likely went unnoticed by attendees, meaning it will also go unchallenged by the elders and leaders of the church. However, Paul spoke about orderly worship and reminds us that the words of speakers, and even prophets, are to come under church scrutiny. “Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said” (1 Cor 14:29 NIV).

President’s Day

I’m not surprised by the tirade against President Trump from those who are labeled liberals, democrats and the media. However, I’m taken aback when I hear those bearing the name of Christ joining in with the name-calling, threats and outright disrespect for the President. These confessed believers may feel their subversion is against the government and those who voted for Trump, but they are mistaken. Paul said, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves” (Ro 13:1-2 NIV).

Airing Opinions

Newspapers, at least on the local level, seem to be emboldened with a sense of entitlement. They no longer report facts, serve readers, or play the role of government watchdog. Rather they offer magazine-type fluff, person-of-interest articles about themselves and publish their personal opinions with unabashed political bias and spin. It’s no wonder they are losing readers, advertisers and subscribers. Proverbs makes an apt observation, “An unfriendly man pursues selfish ends; he defies all sound judgment. A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions” (Proverbs 18:1-2 NIV).

Resurrection of the Dead

There is a disturbing accusation of a local funeral home director selling body parts. It appears that, for a reduced fee in expenses, some clients and their representatives signed releases for the deceased to be used for “research” purposes. Clients were unaware that the body-broker was then selling body parts. The outcome of the FBI investigation remains to be seen. I understand the outrage of those who feel the body of their loved one may have been abused. However, Paul would have us look beyond earthly death, “But someone may ask, “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body will they come?” How foolish! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. When you sow, you do not plant the body that will be, but just a seed, perhaps of wheat or of something else. But God gives it a body as he has determined, and to each kind of seed he gives its own body…So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body” (1 Cor 15:35-38, 42-44 NIV).

Valentine’s Day

There are times I struggle with the Lord’s command to love my enemies and my preferred coping mechanism is to ignore and avoid enemies. While I know my husband loves me, if he came to me and told me he loved my arch enemy I’m sure I’d be taken aback and feel abandoned, betrayed and un-loved. And yet, that is exactly what God does…He loves my enemies! Israel had a hardening until the full number of the Gentiles had come in. Paul wrote, “As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies on your account; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, for God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable” (Ro 11:28-29 NIV). 

Spin

In my role as a reporter I cover city government and I continue to be amazed at how often the report I file for my on-line publication differs in context and content from the articles in the local print newspaper that cover the same meeting. I report on the facts I hear in meetings; however, other reporters contact sources after the meeting giving the source the opportunity to clarify, expand, justify and yes, spin the story. I’m reminded of the stone that was rolled away from the tomb of Jesus. The guards reported to the chief priests everything that happened, “When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day” (Matt 28:12-15 NIV).

A Case for Independence

Today community development is becoming more and more about partnering and collaboration. For instance, organizations who don’t have the funds they need for a project apply for grants. However, grants are often awarded based on whether or not the organization has support and buy-in from others for the project. I see something similar with people of faith when they feel they must find partners within the church in order to accomplish their vision or mission. Certainly, we can accomplish a lot when we partner with others, but just as with a grant application, strings are attached to collaboration. Paul makes a good case for remaining independent as he moved from mission field to mission field, “So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ. It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else’s foundation” (Ro 15:19-20 NIV).

Exposure

The careers of politicians and high-profile personalities continue to topple as their past indiscretions, domestic abuse and adultery are exposed. On the one hand I’m getting weary of all the dirty laundry; however, when I look at each situation through a spiritual lens I see God’s hand. Jesus taught that no one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or under a bed. In my mind the accompanying verse that follows can be seen as a warning, as well as a word of encouragement. “For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open” (Luke 8:17 NIV).

Lifeboat

A storm of hurricane force called a northeaster swept down from the island and Paul’s ship was caught in the storm. “In an attempt to escape from the ship, the sailors let the lifeboat down into the sea, pretending they were going to lower some anchors from the bow. Then Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, “Unless these men stay with the ship, you cannot be saved.” So the soldiers cut the ropes that held the lifeboat and let it fall away” (Acts 27:30-32 NIV). I’m a Navy veteran and the thought of Army soldier cutting the rope to my lifeboat doesn’t sit well. But isn’t that just like God…He’s always cutting the rope so that we depend on Him rather than the lifeboat.

In Good Company

I’m not a feminist, but I’ll admit that I struggle when I’m not allowed to use my Bible knowledge in the church. Male Sunday school teachers value a man’s comments over that of a woman’s and over the years I’ve experienced numerous occasions where I’ve been condescendingly put in my place for contributing to the collective discussion. Certainly, Scripture is clear on church structure and male leadership; however, I can’t help but wonder why women keep studying the Bible if we must then keep the Word if God to ourselves. I suppose that at times Paul may have had the same type of feelings, “Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to” (Acts 16:6-7 NIV).

Owing Respect and Honor

Our church leadership is interviewing for an associate pastor position and while the congregation was not afforded the opportunity to hear the applicant preach, he did give the communion mediation. I appreciate that the man was comfortable behind the podium; however, he was way too comfortable in casual attire. With his denim jeans, untucked and unbuttoned sport shirt over a T-shirt he might well have been delivering a communion meditation at church camp. Certainly, clothes don’t make the man, but they do make an impression…and they are an indicator of the respect one holds for their audience. Paul said, “Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor” (Ro 13:7 NIV).   

Putting God to the Test

Bill and I bounce around supper menu suggestions and one of us may say, “Nothing sounds good.” I hear something similar from my 94-year-old mother-in-law who, like other elderly people, will say that nothing tastes like it used to, hence nothing is appealing. During the Exodus the Israelites grumbled because their pots of food and the amount of food didn’t compare with what they had in Egypt. God addressed their discontent by providing manna and quail as they wondered for 40 years in the desert. I’m now wondering how the nothing-sounds-good-to-me phrase falls on God’s ears today. Moses might very well say to us, “Come before the LORD, for he has heard your grumbling” (Ex 16:9b NIV).

When Did We See

I recently talked to a man who told me his normal work schedule had to change because, “I need to help a homeless man move.” My first though was, how does that work? If a man is homeless where does he move from and where does he move to? However, once I put his comment into a spiritual context I heard Jesus say, “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me’ (Matt 25:37-40 NIV).

The Lord’s Prayer Tweaked

Pope Francis recently changed the Lord’s Prayer from, “…lead us not into temptation,” to “…don’t let me fall into temptation.” The Pope’s translation seems to imply that temptation is accidental; like falling into a pit. While God did not tempt Jesus, He did allow his Son to experience temptation, “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil” (Matt 4:1 NIV). Jesus shared in our humanity and He fully understands our struggle with temptation. The writer of Hebrews said, “Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted” (Heb 2:18 NIV).

Walk in His Footprints

In an interview singer Kelly Clarkson was asked about the best advice she ever received, “Never take advice from someone you wouldn’t want to switch places with…take advice from someone whose path you would want to be on, someone you would be proud to walk in their footprints” (Parade Magazine 1/28/2018). On a human level I find the advice noteworthy, but on a spiritual level it is profound. 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).

Rebuking God

On a radio promotion evangelical preacher Joel Osteen promoted his health and wealth gospel, “What kind of a God wants you to be poor and miserable?” I’m reminded of Jesus telling the disciples of his pending death, “From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life. Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!” In my mind both Osteen and Peter are using the same thought process — that being poor, miserable persecuted and put to death should never happen to people of God. “Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men” (Matt 16:21-23. NIV).

For Fear of the People

Herod wanted to kill John the Baptist, but he was afraid of the people because they considered him a prophet. In another instance the chief priests and Pharisees wanted to arrest Jesus, but they were afraid of the crowd because the people held that he was a prophet. It occurs to me that today’s politicians have lost their fear of people of faith…or is it that people of faith no longer have the strength of their convictions to stand up to politicians. The Lord’s words to Paul are applicable to us today, “One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city” (Acts 18:9-10 NIV).

Red Carpet

Hollywood rolls out the red carpet for the elite in their industry. Pomp and circumstance are orchestrated and honorees are showered with praise from their agents, the media and adoring fans. I can’t help but compare and contrast this forced relationship with the Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. Jesus rode in on a donkey, “A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest!” (Matt 21:7-9 NIV).

Unclean, Unclean

I’m holding my husband and mother-in-law captive as both have compromised immune systems and I’m not letting them out of the house for fear they may be exposed to the flu. I’m running all the errands and recently went to Walmart to restock our over-the-counter medications. As I turned the corner to go down the medicine aisle I realized the area was a literal petri dish for the flu. People were picking up and putting back cold remedy medications as they coughed, sneezed and read labels. I have a whole new appreciation for the Old Testament Law that required those with infectious disease to announce their situation. “The person with such an infectious disease must wear torn clothes, let his hair be unkempt, cover the lower part of his face and cry out, ‘Unclean! Unclean!’ As long as he has the infection he remains unclean. He must live alone; he must live outside the camp” (Lev 13:45-46 NIV).

Hedge of Protection

I always feel God’s protection; however, there are times when I pray specifically for God’s hedge of protection — when I travel by car, because I don’t always trust the skill of other drivers; and before bed because I want to bar Satan and his minions from my house at night so he cannot disturb my mind, my dreams and my sleep. The account of Job is a good reminder that God’s hedge of protection can be tangible and visible…and that Satan is under God’s power. “Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” The LORD said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your hands, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.” Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD” (Job 1:9-12 NIV).

Shut Down

My Colorado Democratic Senator voted to shut down the government. I’m discouraged that he would favor illegal immigrants over the American people and in my email to him I asked, “To whom do you pledge allegiance and whom do you serve?” Likewise, we believers must understand the oath and commitment we made when we became Christians. We must remember to Whom we pledged our allegiance and Whom we serve. Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money” (Matt 6:24 NIV).

The Image of God

Today is National Sanctity of Human Life Day. Since 1973 (Roe v Wade decision) there have been approximately 55 million legal abortions. I grieve for the loss of life, but I also grieve for those who made the decision to terminate a life and those who actually took the life of someone made in the image of God. “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (Gen 1:27 NIV).

Ambassador in Chains

In his letter to the Ephesians Paul said, “Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should” (Eph 6:19-20 NIV). I find it fascinating that Paul’s focus is not on his chains, but rather on being an ambassador for Christ. Many of us who work in the church have felt we too are in chains — teachers in chains, leaders in chains, administrators in chains, organizers in chains, etc. All too often when someone puts us in chains, rather than ignoring the chains, we abandon our calling.

Our Gift

Our community has a historical site that, depending on whether you are an archaeologist or recreationalist, measures the historical significance. A local archaeologist, who is not pleased with the city’s preservation plans said, “All I’m asking for is due credit for the hundreds of hours I gifted to the city [in the original inventory of the site].” Unfortunately, the archaeologist took the project upon himself, so what he is gifting to the city is not something they requested. Believers can fall into the same mind set when we work for the Lord…some of us expect to be recognized for the hundreds of volunteer hours gifted to the church. Paul said, “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself [or your gift] more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.” (Ro 12:3 NIV).

Body Image

Society today is so obsessed with body image that some people feel they can retain their youth, sculpt a glorious body and have unlimited strength — all through diet, exercise and body building. I’m not sure they are ready to hear that their natural body is perishable, dishonorable and weak. Paul reminds us not confuse the natural body with the raised spiritual body. “So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body” (1 Cor 15:42-44a NIV).

Ruins

Around the world temple ruins come under the scrutiny of archaeologists. Some temples have been well maintained for centuries, while others have fallen into such disrepair that only the outline of a foundation remains. I’m now contemplating how I am viewed as a temple, “For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people” (2 Cor 6:16b NIV). 

The Pressure of My Concern

Often our concern for others is misunderstood and we get labeled as judgmental, hypocrite and being religiously superiority. I’ve never known how to defend my thoughts and actions once the other person has placed me in the category of being holier-than-thou. However, I stumbled onto Paul’s detailed description as he boasts of the suffering he endured — shipwrecks, flogging, being stoned, etc. “Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn” (2 Cor 11:28-29 NIV)? It occurs to me that we too feel the pressure of concern when someone in the church is weak and when someone is led into sin. As mature believers we should not let others equate our concern with judging, hypocrisy or superiority.

Solid Food

When starting a new year many newspapers look back over the previous year with a “year in review.” My local paper is taking it a step further and publishing a column that reviews the week’s headline stories. I assume they are using the regurgitated stories as filler, but because it’s old news I don’t read the column. Pastors can come up a variety of justifications for recycled sermon material; however, they fail to understand that to the man in the pew they are delivering old news. The writer of Hebrews distinguishes between the infant and the spiritually mature. As one who is spiritually mature, let me be honest, I don’t listen to the message when it contains only milk. “Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil” (Heb 5:13-14 NIV).

Character Building

I suppose it’s because I’m getting older that I find myself surrounded with friends, loved ones and fellow believers who have failing health. Cancer, blindness, old age, stroke, exacerbation of MS and then there are those suffering from the side effects of their medication. I recently realized my focus is all wrong. I see physical suffering, but I’ve been remiss in looking for the fruit produced by suffering. Paul said, “And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us” (Ro 5:2b-5 NIV).

Paddling on Planks

During a northeaster that lasted many days the sailors decided to run their ship aground. The ship struck a sandbar off the shore of Malta and broke apart. While the soldiers wanted to kill the prisoners to keep them from swimming away and escaping, the centurion wanted to spare Paul’s life and kept them from carrying out their plan. “…He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and get to land. The rest were to get there on planks or on pieces of the ship. In this way everyone reached land in safety” (Acts 27:43b-44 NIV). All 276 souls on board survived. I see a similar situation when Jesus was arrested and his disciples spared. The Lord’s words were fulfilled, “I have not lost one of those you gave me” (John 18:9b NIV). While none were lost, it occurs to me that some disciples are able to swim, while others paddle on planks. 

Caregiving

I went to Denver for a couple days, which left Bill as the caregiver for his 94-year-old mother. When I returned both were glad to have me home, but I had to laugh when Ruth said, “While you were gone neither of us were very hungry.” Obviously, Ruth’s lack of appetite and Bill’s lack of creative meal preparation lacked compatibility. Paul said, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret” (1 Cor 13:27-30 NIV)? In her current station in life Ruth does not need an apostle, a worker of miracles or someone with gifts of administration, but rather a caregiver.

Recognized by Your Fruit

The Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self–control. It’s a scary proposition that someone could actually look at us and not recognize the fruit of the Spirit in us, or see the fruit produced from belief in Christ. Jesus said, “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them” (Matt 7:15-20 NIV).

Self-Absorbed

My local newspaper prints less and less news and more and more social commentary. It’s as though journalists have turned into bloggers. Reporters now insert themselves into the narrative, write columns about their vacations and offer opinion and commentary on things they know nothing about. It is a reflection of our time when people are self-absorbed. Paul understands that believers are not immune to the culture of the day, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. (Romans 12: 2-3 NIV).

Earn the Bread You Eat

During winter the appearance of homeless camps on city highways, byways and bike paths becomes more prevalent. A recent newspaper reported, “This is not a city government issue. This is a community-wide issue.” Homelessness certainly effects our communities, but to me the statement implies that homelessness is somehow the community’s responsibility. Paul would disagree and warns against idleness, “For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “If a man will not work, he shall not eat.” We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat” (2 Thess 3:10-12 NIV).

911, what’s Your Emergency?

I write for an online publication and on January 1^st I started a new series, “Answering the Call.” The premises is to interview local law enforcement personnel and help the community get acquainted with police officers, in essence I'll be putting names with faces. One of my interview questions however, was not well thought out and I asked, “Where would someone most likely run into to you?” The reality is that you don’t just run into the folks who protect and serve unless you call 911. My friend Betty said, “That’s true…we only know these super people when we need them. Kinda’ like when we call on God?”

2017 in Review

We may look back on 2017 and focus on unanswered prayers; however, the prophet Isaiah reminds us that our human view is clouded, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV).

Happy New Year

Jesus taught his disciples, “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt 6:9-10 NIV). May 2018 powerfully display the coming of His kingdom.

Looking Back

I’m still considering older folks who have trouble coming to grips with aging and their physical limitations. Rather than accepting their present situation, or looking toward the future, they seem to be looking back to yesteryear and lamenting their lost abilities. Although Jesus was speaking specifically about the coming of the Kingdom of God, I find His warning about going back for possessions, or looking back on one’s former life, as being applicable to aging. “Remember Lot’s wife! Whoever tries to keep his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it” (Luke 17:32-33 NIV).

White and Black

Many older folks have a hard time accepting the limits of age when they can no longer do the things they once did. They rebel when they lose control of their lives, their finances…and especially their driver’s license. People of faith are not immune and the Lord must sometimes pry our fingers off this earthly life. Jesus reminds us we actually have no control over life, “And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black” (Matt 5:36 NIV).

The Character of Christ

A preacher told me that after three years a congregation takes on the personality of the pastor, “If your church is failing after three years look at yourself.” From a worldly perspective I understand what he was saying. However, from a spiritual perspective God never intended for the church to take on the personality of the preacher, but rather the personality of Christ. Paul said, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy” (Col 1:17-18 NIV).

A Diet of Milk

As a journalist I must be conscious of giving readers credit and not dumbing down the content of articles. Hence, I’m sensitive to sermons where I hear preachers giving their congregation milk, rather than the meat of the Gospel. Certainly, the immature in Christ need the milk of the Word; however, when pastors offer nothing but milk their membership will not mature. The writer of Hebrews said, “Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil” (Heb 5:13-14 NIV).

Merry Christmas 2017

“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11 NIV).

Down From the Cross

“In the same way the chief priests and the teachers of the law mocked him among themselves. “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself! Let this Christ, this King of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see and believe.” Those crucified with him also heaped insults on him” (Mark 15:31-32 NIV). Satan would have us think that we can save ourselves. We need to be reminded that Jesus did in fact come down from the cross; however, it was not to save Himself, but rather He came down from the cross to save you and me. 

Consider the Cost

In the last couple of weeks our municipality passed their 2018 budget and already they have put out two Amended Supplemental Budgets for 2018…and the year 2018 hasn’t even started yet. Spiritually speaking there is a budgeting process to being a disciple, “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, saying, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish’ (Luke 14:28-30 NIV). As believers we must consider what Jesus expects from his followers.

Listen to Him

Jesus was transfigured before Peter, James and John. Peter’s reaction was to offer to build three shelters — one for Jesus, one for Moses and one for Elijah. Isn’t that just like believers today…we want to build the Lord a mega church, a vibrant youth group and a spiritual shelter for the homeless and disenfranchised. And yet God doesn’t want us to build anything. “Then a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and a voice came from the cloud: “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him” (Mark 9:7 NIV)!

Lessons in Trees

The disciples sat at the feet of Jesus where He explained parables and spoke from firsthand experience with the Father. The Son of God, who had all the knowledge of the kingdom of heaven at his fingertips, said to the disciples, “Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door” (Matt 24:32-33 NIV). Many of us love holding the Word of God, the Bible, in our hands, but we tend to forget that God also has lessons written in creation.

Procrastination

In the Parable of the Ten Virgins you have to give the virgins credit for keeping themselves pure, being dressed appropriately for the wedding banquet and having lamps. However, five of the virgins were foolish and failed to take any extra oil with them. When their lamps started going out they were forced to run to town to buy oil. Jesus said, “But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. “Later the others also came. ‘Sir! Sir!’ they said. ‘Open the door for us!’ “But he replied, ‘I tell you the truth, I don’t know you.’ “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour” (Matt 25:10-13 NIV). Jesus tells us to keep watch, but the parable implies more than merely keeping watch; we must be ready and prepared. Unfortunately, too many people think they can make a last-minute Wal-Mart run and still make it back before the Lord shuts the door.

Calling Attention

Many of us were raised with our mothers telling us not to air our dirty laundry in public – meaning it is better to handle issues behind closed doors. However, John shows us there is a place for exposure…even in the church. “I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will have nothing to do with us. So if I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, gossiping maliciously about us. Not satisfied with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church” (3 John 9-10 NIV). While there is something to be said about doing things privately, a case can be made for bringing things out into the open. I especially appreciate John’s willingness to expose people and attitudes that are destructive to the Kingdom of God.

Raising the Living

Paul was speaking specifically to Agrippa, but others would have been included in his remarks when he said, “Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead” (Acts 26:8 NIV)? While raising the dead might be hard to comprehend, we know that with God nothing is impossible. However, it occurs to me that it might be easier for God to raise the dead than to bring life to the living who are dead in their sins.

Stump the Preacher

During my youth my church would occasionally have a Sunday night event called, “Stump the Preacher.” Most people would ask questions that came up during their Bible study. However, we teenagers would often don our Pharisee hat and, similar to the Jews who tried to trap Jesus with a question he couldn’t answer, we’d try to trap the preacher. As a kid I loved those iron-sharpening-iron sessions and my preacher had such a grasp on the Word of God that he never failed to have an answer. Today’s pastors and ministers might likewise be able to answer any and all impromptu Bible questions from their membership, but I can’t think that many would allow themselves to be put in such a precarious position.

Authorities Determine Your Rights

During a local public meeting a pro-immigration activist said, “It’s important to recognize the right of all individuals to migrate…This is a critical moment when many immigrants are facing threats from the current administration.” In the days surrounding the birth of Jesus, Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world and everyone went to their own town to register. I’m trying to imagine the activists of that day telling the Roman Empire that all individuals have a right to migrate. “So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, 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 2:4-7 NIV).

Jesus in a Rocking Chair

We recently inherited two rocking chairs. One is a big sturdy oak chair with a deep seat, wide arms and well worn. The chair, which belonged to Bill’s grandma, rocked children and grandchildren many a mile. The other chair, which belonged to his step-grandmother, is knitting chair about a third the size, low to the ground, has no arms and appears to be in pristine condition with little, or no use. This little one seater chair could hardly accommodate a plump grandma, much less a grandma and grandchild. Of course there is no Bible account of Jesus in a rocking chair, but if there were I know which chair we would find the Lord sitting in. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matt 19:14 NIV).

Scorched Earth Policy

In order to keep the wildfires from jumping lines and roads the firefighters in California are setting backfires. President Trump sets a lot of verbal backfires in an attempt to contain his adversaries, but his method often resembles a scorched earth policy. We believers possess the same flame throwing weapon as the President. James said, “Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison” (James 3:5-8 NIV).

Exposed

During my second visit to a church the pastor mentioned the article I’d written about my first visit. He told me that someone in his congregation had later asked him if he was mad about what I’d written. I understand. I too hate it when someone takes a picture of me that exposes how I’m actually seen by others…warts and all. However, I can’t very well go to the photographer and ask him why he didn’t airbrush away the imperfections, photo shop the roll around my middle, or brighten the color of my hair. The Lord told John to write to the seven churches in Revelation and according to the footnote in my NIV Bible it appears that the church letters, along with the entire book of Revelation, was sent to each church. I have to wonder if some of the people in the seven congregations weren't a little bit tweaked about what John had written.

Do you Hear What I Hear?

Without her hearing aids my 94-year-old mother-in-law is totally deaf. I’ve learned that even with hearing aids it is important to speak more slowly and face to face so that she can read lips and facial expressions. There are some people who are deaf to the Word of God and no amount of consideration for their disability will make a difference. Jesus said, “Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! ...He who belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God” (John 8:43-45, 47 NIV).

In Remembrance of Me

I placed the empty thimble size cup back into the communion tray and making eye contact with the server I mouthed a thank you. The server responded, “I love you” and then proceeded to take the tray to the man standing in the foyer. Once again the server told the man, “I love you.” I now have another image of Christ as he served the first communion to his disciples. On the night of his betrayal Jesus gave thanks for the bread and the cup, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” I participate in communion and loudly proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes, but in that proclamation he whispers to me, “I love you.” (1Cor 11:24-25 NIV).

The Measure You Use

People of both genders are coming forward with accusations of sexual misconduct leveled against people in power — politicians, movie moguls, TV personalities, etc. I find it interesting that the abusers who once held power over their victim’s careers are now having their own careers destroyed by exposure. Jesus said, “Consider carefully what you hear,” he continued. “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and even more” (Mark 4:24 NIV).

Transparency

Transparency is a big buzz word in the political arena. Generally speaking, politicians don’t want to be transparent, but they want the appearance of transparency. It gives me pause to think about transparency as it relates to people of faith. While Jesus had selective conversations meant only for his disciples, His message to the world was clearly seen. The Jews accused Jesus of subverting their law and questioned him about his disciples and his teaching. Jesus said, “I have spoken openly to the world, I always taught in synagogues or at the temple, where all the Jews come together. I said nothing in secret. Why question me? Ask those who heard me. Surely they know what I said” (John 18:20-21 NIV).

Scripture Fulfilled

Fulfilled is defined as a feeling of happiness or satisfaction. I can understand God feeling satisfaction when Jesus lost none of those except the one doomed to destruction. However, it is hard for many of us to wrap our heads around the feeling of satisfaction in the fulfillment of Scripture because men cast lots for the Lord’s clothing, when Christ was thirsty on the cross and asked for a drink, or when his bones remained unbroken at the time of his death. Peter said, “But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Christ would suffer. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus” (Acts 3:18-20 NIV).

Pay For Play

Many people were outraged by the perceived pay-for-play schemes of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. However, we need look no further than local government and yes, even in the church, to see similar tactics of favoritism, endorsements and elevated status. We people of faith would like to believe we are above such manipulation; however, even in the time of Jesus he taught, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted in the marketplaces, and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely” (Mark 12:38-40 NIV). I haven’t seen anyone walking around in a flowing robe, but I have encountered church leaders who think that the Spirit within them is superior to the Spirit that is within in others.

Always at Work

God created the heavens and the earth and rested on the 7^th day. Some might think that since that time God has been resting on His laurels. Not so…God went right back to work for you and me. The Jews persecuted Jesus because he healed on the Sabbath, Jesus said to them, “My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working” (John 5:17 NIV).

A Good Conscience

When a local elected official continued to miss official meetings one supporter came to her defense saying, “I’m sure she had a reason, she is a very busy person.” It goes without saying that the elected official, as well as everyone else, can make a claim of busyness. However, constituents have an expectation that elected officials prioritize and perform their duties and serve the needs of citizens. Likewise, the Lord has an expectation that believers will perform their duties and serve others. A claim of busyness isn’t valid and Paul is a good example of one who didn’t conjure up excuses, “Paul looked straight at the Sanhedrin and said, “My brothers, I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience to this day” (Acts 23:1 NIV).

Count Your Blessings

By definition, a blessing is asking for God’s favor and protection. Recently a spiritual group reported on their annual event of “Animal Blessings.” As though to showcase their all-inclusiveness and outreach into the community they boasted that this year’s event included blessing a roly-poly bug and a stuffed animal. I’m now trying to figure out how an animal, or an inanimate object, knows when they have been blessed. The Psalmist wrote, “May the peoples praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you. Then the land will yield its harvest, and God, our God, will bless us. God will bless us, and all the ends of the earth will fear him” (Psalm 67:5-7 NIV). 

Happy Thanksgiving

I’m thankful for the insight of Gabriel, the angel who stands in the presence of God, “For nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37 NIV).

Principals of This World

I overheard a woman in the checkout line talking to the sales clerk about her vegan son. Exasperated she said, “He won’t eat anything that has a mother!” It is so easy for people to become obsessed with food choices, diets, and perceived healthy lifestyles. Paul reminds us that the death of Christ freed us from human restriction and fad diets, “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).

Two Masters

A local museum got caught up in being promoted as a place for paranormal activity. While they are receiving worldwide PR, they now feel the label may detract from their stated mission of history and education. The ghost branding may well stick simply because there are a couple of people in the administration who, by all appearances, believe in the paranormal. I suspect the museum will try to find a way to straddle the line, which is a similar tactic we see in liberal churches, as well as in individual believers. For instance, those who stand on the Bible yet practice astrology and rely on their horoscope. Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money” (Matt 6:24 NIV).

Established By God

I find the upcoming Alabama election with controversial candidate Judge Ray Moore fascinating. The uproar reminds me of same atmosphere that was present when Jesus was before Pilate. The religious and political leaders conspired to have the Lord crucified and Barabbas released…and the people in the crowd, the voters of that day, believed that they controlled the narrative. We would do well to remember that whether it is Obama, Trump or Moore, it is God who purposed these people for their position. Paul said, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. (Ro 13:1 NIV).

Reviewing

Scripture often uses repetition to emphasize the importance of an issue, but generally speaking we don’t see New Testament writers reviewing their own material. I’m seeing a pattern with today’s preachers, similar to a teacher reminding his students of a previous instruction, where they review past lessons. The pastor will refer to information given in the adult Sunday school class, the Wednesday night Bible study, or last week’s sermon. Such refreshers work well if preacher is talking to the same audience; however, it is of little benefit to those who missed the previous lesson. Often these reviews overshadow the actual lesson, which leaves one with the feeling that the speaker wasn’t prepared and fell back on old material. Paul sets a standard and serves as an example to those who preach the Word, “We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. No, we speak of God’s secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Cor 2:6-8 NIV).

Happy Thanksgiving

I’m thankful for the insight of Gabriel, the angel who stands in the presence of God, “For nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37 NIV).

Riding for the Brand

I recently watched an old western on TV where Sam Elliot’s character talked about riding for the brand. In essence the brand was a ranch’s trademark and riding for the brand meant you signed on to the mission — loyalty, dedication, duty, etc. It is becoming more and more obvious that people in the media, politicians, civil servants and yes, even people of faith, are trying to become their own brand. Sometimes people of faith start writing and believing their own press and forget the brand they ride for is not their own, but that of Jesus Christ. Paul said, “You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men” (1 Cor 7:23 NIV).