Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

Some people are still taking the Trump administration to task for the earlier program of separating children from parents when illegal immigrants come to the US border.  These politicians describe it as, “ripping children from their mother’s arms,” and yet these same politicians have no qualms about ripping children from their mother’s wombs. The psalmist wrote, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:13-14 NIV).

Preplanned Rebellion

I’ve been a student at Taylor University, a Christian liberal arts university in Indiana. Much to my chagrin some students and faculty walked out in protest during Vice President Mike Pence’s commencement address. I can overlook the student’s lack of maturity. However, for any faculty to participate in preplanned rebellion that leads students astray is not only unacceptable, but it goes against God, who puts people in positions of authority. 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).

I Love Them Anyway

When celebrating Mother’s Day four-year-old Travis was curious about his grandma and great grandma. He asked, “Are Gran’ma Jo and Granny B moms too? Like they had babies?” His mother Rachel explained, “Yes, but not anymore because they are too old to have babies.” Travis said, “That’s OK. I love them anyway.” The psalmist wrote, “Yet you brought me out of the womb; you made me trust in you even at my mother’s breast. From birth I was cast upon you; from my mother’s womb you have been my God” (Psalm 22:9-10 NIV).

Christ is in All

Paul said, “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all” (Col 3:9-11 NIV). This insight has application for today’s denominations. I can hear Paul saying to us, “Here there is no Baptist or Methodist, Lutheran or Episcopalian, Catholic, Anglican, Pentecostal or Assembly of God, but Christ is all, and is in all.”

The Door of Opportunity

Paul wrote to the Corinthians about his travel plans to visit them, “But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost, because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me” (1 Cor 16:8-9 NIV). I’m amazed and somewhat envious of Paul’s ability to look beyond the many who oppose him and see a great and open door for effective work.

This Generation

A political analyst opined that many of America’s minorities have been held back from their full potential because of government dependence. From his perspective minorities can look back and see that they are no better off than previous generations because social services keep them enslaved. It gives me pause to think that something similar might be said about today’s believers. Is our generation of Christians and any more spiritually mature than those of past generations? Proverbs said, “He who fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge” (Proverbs 14:26 NIV).

The Work of Our Hands

I can stand on my back deck and watch our new house being built. Last week I discovered the roofer is an old friend, Kevin, who is a fellow believer. Kevin is a really good roofer; however, he is now stooped and walks with a limp because over the years he has fallen off ladders and roofs. Now I’m not only praying for Kevin’s safety, but also for the aches and pains one develops after years of physical labor.  The psalmist wrote, “May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands” (Psalm 90-17 NIV).

Action Required

The political and social landscapes seem to have lost all forms of civility and my sense is that the religious landscape is in danger of following suit. In speaking of the greatest commandment Jesus said, “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.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments” (Matt 22:37-40 NIV). There are some people today who, like the expert in the law, might say, “And who is my neighbor” (Luke10:29 NIV)? The Parable of the Good Samaritan shows that loving our neighbor is not simply a mental exercise, but it requires action.

Happy Mother’s Day

Three children were on the verge of being taken from their parents because of neglect. In order to avoid placement in foster care, the 50-year-old grandmother to the infant took all three children into her home. Then the great-grandmother, who is in her 70’s, rallied around to help her daughter with the three children as they adjusted to a new home. A Facebook post from the grandmother to the great-grandmother said, “Thank you, Mom, for helping me with everything in life...you have saved me again!! I love you!!” A mother never ceases to be a mother.

A Matter of Pride

Some believers have labored in their ministry for so many years that they are weary and have lost sight of the fact that they can take pride in their work of serving Christ. Paul said, “I am talking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I take pride in my ministry in the hope that I may somehow arouse my own people to envy and save some of them” (Ro 11:13-14 NIV).

Hidden Costs

In preparation for building a new house we sat down with a contractor and banker to estimate the cost. We knew there would be some unexpected expenses; however, neither we nor the builder expected the electric company to tell us we must upgrade their transformer at the cost of $4,085.00. Spiritually speaking, there are costs, even unexpected costs, associated with becoming a disciple. Jesus said, “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).

Spiritual Fitness

I started going to the gym regularly and realized that people I once thought were just naturally trim and had good genes work really hard to stay physically fit. These are not folks with bulging muscles, but people who work as hard to stay in shape as those of us are trying to get in shape. I suspect something similar can be said about being spiritually fit. We simply can’t look at another person of faith and know how many hours he spends in spiritual fitness training —Bible study, prayer, fellowship with other believers, etc. Paul said, “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance (and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe” (1Tim 4:8-10 NIV).

In Danger

Many of us have occasionally found ourselves in dangerous situations. Paul recounts his suffering for the Gospel, “…I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers” (2 Cor 11:26 NIV). Normally I think of the church as a safe haven where we are, generally speaking, of one accord. I’m now giving thought that today, as in Paul’s day, there are false brothers in the assembly of believers.

Recuperation

Last week when watering the lawn my feet got tangled up in the hoses and I still have strained muscles and bruised hands and knees. The fall called for ice packs, Advil and Arnica lotion. I’m now wondering how much balm and time and it took for Paul to recuperate from all his physical ails. Paul said, “I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, have been constantly on the move” (2 Cor 11:23b-26a NIV).  

Church in the Woods

It’s not unusual to hear people say that they don’t have to go to church to worship God, they can worship God when they are alone enjoying a Sunday nature excursion. The premise is true; however, worshiping when in nature is not a replacement for worshiping as a church body. Paul and his companions traveled to Philippi and stayed there several days. Paul said, “On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us” (Acts 16:13-15 NIV).

Building On Your Own Foundation

For many of us, improving on something is easier than starting from scratch. Whether it is a creating a recipe, following a blueprint, or writing a Bible study. Paul was not one of the original 12 Apostles and you’d think he would follow the pattern of the other apostles. No so. Paul said, “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 15:20 NIV).

No Record of Sins

In preparation for moving into a new house come August I’m going through closets, drawers and files. I’m determined not to move anything we don’t need or want today — or in the future. While Bill is walking down memory lane with his fourth-grade report card, military records, schools and training certificates, and career promotions, I’m busy shredding the now unimportant milestones of yesteryear. Nowhere in our collection of papers is there a spiritual record of our lives, neither the good, nor the bad. The Psalmist said, “If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness; therefore you are feared” (Psalm 130:3-4 NIV).

Fighting Against God

Those who continue to attack President Trump seem unaware that he is in his position only by God’s authority. Trump’s enemies would do well to heed the advice Gamaliel gave to the Sanhedrin about the Apostles, “Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God” (Acts 5:38-39 NIV).

My Bags are Packed and I’m Ready to Go

When we get ready to go on vacation our excitement is palpable. We make plans and tell friends, family and neighbors. We look forward to being refreshed, renewed and energized. I wonder if many of us are remiss when we fail to tell others that our spiritual bags are packed. Paul said, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me” (Phil 1:21-26 NIV).

Reflecting on the Kingdom

A Christian school recently hired a new administrator and his credentials did not seem to match the position he was hired for. While he has a lot of world experience (military, medical technology, business, leadership, etc.), there was no mention of Bible college degrees or classes in Christian education and administration. As a financial supporter of the school I talked to a school board member and ask about the new hire’s Christian educational background. The board member took such a defensive attitude to my inquiry that I’m now wondering about continuing with my support. It’s not lost on me how our attitudes reflect on the organizations we’re affiliated with, and on the Kingdom in which we serve. Paul said, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Col 3:17 NIV).

Deceptive Wages

A local newspaper took a public bow for a breaking news story which they did not break. They not only accepted an award they did not deserve, but when it was brought to their attention that another media outlet had the scoop, they chose not to set the record straight. So much for journalistic ethics. Proverbs says, “The wicked man earns deceptive wages, but he who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward" (Proverbs 11:18 NIV).

Let Him Serve

Veterans feel appreciated when people say, “Thank you for your service.” In the foyer of the VA Hospital I often see volunteer veterans manning the popcorn machine, serving at the reception desk and stocking the free book table. These volunteers are not yet done serving and I’ve been remiss in not saying, “Thank you for your continued service.” Paul said, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve…” (Ro 12:6-7a NIV)

Indeed

A traditional Easter greeting in the Western church is, “He is risen!” and the traditional response is, “He is risen, indeed!” It’s a shame these sentiments seem relegated only to Easter and not every day of the year. On the road to Emmaus two disciples encountered the risen Lord and when their eyes were opened to recognized him, he disappeared from their sight. “They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread” (Luke 24:33-35 NIV). Indeed!

How You Should Function

Paul described the body of Christ, the church, as it should be when it functions correctly, “As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you” (1 Cor 12:20-21 NIV)! In today’s church we may not tell one another you’re not needed, but some of us have a bad habit of telling the hand how it should serve and the foot how it should walk.  

Blueprint

We are building a new house next door to our current house and we can watch the progress hour by hour. Because the builders are following a blueprint, we know exactly what is taking place and how the house will look. When we were created God didn’t follow a blueprint, but rather He chose a creative approach of a lifetime of molding and shaping each of us into unique individuals. Isaiah said, “Yet, O LORD, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand” (Isaiah 64:8 NIV).

Justice Will Be Served

As it pertains to the political landscape, it doesn’t matter which side of the aisle you are on, we’d all like to see politicians brought to justice. In our lifetime we may never see justice served on politicians who are professed believers, but that doesn’t mean they will get off scot-free. 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).

Come Into the Light

I reported on a public meeting and the leadership of one charitable organization took exception to the proposed article. Although they did not come right out and say it, it was obvious that they wanted me to kill the story before it was published because it put the organization in a bad light. I understand their discomfort. John said, “Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God.” (John 3:20-21 NIV).

A New Song

A visiting Bible college group was in charge of the church worship music Sunday. They performed two specials, followed by congregational singing that consisted of one traditional hymn and a praise song. Everyone sang the traditional hymn, but the praise song was unfamiliar and it might as well have been billed as another special music selection. Most of us struggled with singing a song we were hearing for the first time. I suppose this could be one of those occasions where we simply sing in our hearts and our minds. The psalmist wrote, “Praise the LORD. Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints” (Psalm 149:1 NIV).

Exploiting the Church

  Jesus called the 12 and designated them apostles so that he could send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. Judas Iscariot, the betrayer, had the same power and ability as the other 11, yet he sold out Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. I doubt that it was the money Judas wanted because as keeper of the money bag, he was already helping himself to the purse. Judas could have generated additional income on the side by charging people to drive out demons. From the early church up until today there are leaders in our midst who exploit the church for personal gain. Simon the Sorcerer was himself a baptized believer, “When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money and said, “Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” 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. Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin” (Acts 8:18-23 NIV).

Options

  Expecting their fifth child, Matt told to the other children they should get a gift for their mama for after the new baby was born. Keeping a narrow focus Matt offered the kids Option One and Option Two. After weighing the options, three-year-old Penny Jo said, “How about option three…ice cream?”

  The Lord is not in the habit of giving people options, but it has occurred, “David was conscience-stricken after he had counted the fighting men, and he said to the LORD, “I have sinned greatly in what I have done. Now, O LORD, I beg you, take away the guilt of your servant. I have done a very foolish thing.” Before David got up the next morning, the word of the LORD had come to Gad the prophet, David’s seer: “Go and tell David, ‘This is what the LORD says: I am giving you three options. Choose one of them for me to carry out against you.’” So Gad went to David and said to him, “Shall there come upon you three years of famine in your land? Or three months of fleeing from your enemies while they pursue you? Or three days of plague in your land? Now then, think it over and decide how I should answer the one who sent me” (2 Sam 24:10-13 NIV).

Whatever You Do

I attended an open house and ribbon cutting for the opening of a new behavioral crisis center. On the spur of the moment some prominent people were invited to say a few words and some speakers focused their comments on facility and the collaborative community effort. However, others choose to shine a spotlight on themselves and their respective organizations. Believers can fall into a similar trap when we turn the spotlight on ourselves as we witness, teach, preach and testify about the Lord. Paul said, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Col 3:17 NIV).

Crown Thief

According to Paul believers get a crown that will last forever and, similar to our salvation, most of us feel our crown is secure. However, when the Lord spoke to the church in Philadelphia He said, “I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown” (Rev 3:11 NIV). It’s never occurred to me that someone could take my crown. Now I have all kinds of questions. Who would try to take my crown? Why do they want my crown? What exactly does a crown thief look like?

Empty Words

For some time now my local newspaper has struggled with turning out a professional product and the paper continues to deteriorate. However, a publisher-in-waiting just wrote an opinion column singing the praises of the paper’s journalistic efforts titled, “Community journalism held to a higher standard”. The writer said, “If we do not meet your expectations call me at (xxx-xxx-xxxx), and I will return your call the same day.” My sense is that subscribers have already given negative reviews and feedback and this is the writer’s attempt to use words to rehabilitate the public perception. I’ve seen similar scenarios play out in the church when people, leaders as well as laity, try use words rather than actions to influence perception. Paul said, “Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them” (Eph 5:6-7 NIV).

Holy Hands

During a protest or a sporting event some people extend a power fist into the air. In a church setting it is not unusual to see worshipers lifting hands up to the Lord in praise, petition, or anguish. I’m now wondering how believers might impact the political landscape if we were to lift holy hands during a political event. No doubt it would catch presenters and attendees off guard; however, it would bring God into event. Paul said, “I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing” (1 Tim 2:8 NIV).

Sin Working in Me

Politicians (Republican and Democrat) and the media are second guessing President Trump’s recent decision to once again put health care on the table. News anchors are saying, “Why doesn’t Trump just take a victory lap on the Robert Mueller report rather than bring up health care? It’s an issue that neither side can fix.” Trump is not going to let Congress ignore the health care issue and I find his methods similar to the methods used by the Spirit. As believers we often feel our sinful nature is impossible to fix and yet the Spirit keeps bringing us back to a particular sin issue. The Spirit will not allow us to turn a blind eye and continue to ignore sin. Paul said, “So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Ro 7:21-25 NIV)!

April Fools’ Day

Insightful words from Proverbs, “A fool’s talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them. A discerning man keeps wisdom in view, but a fool’s eyes wander to the ends of the earth. A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating. A fool’s mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul” (Proverbs 14:3, 17:24, 18:6-7 NIV).

Enemies of the Truth

We often avoid confrontation and being truthful because we know when we speak the truth, we make enemies. The same can be said for speaking the truth to one another in the church. Paul’s concern for the Galatians led him to chastise them for now knowing God, but turning back to weak principals. Paul said, “I fear for you, that somehow I have wasted my efforts on you…Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth” (Gal 4:11, 16 NIV)?

Slander

It’s hard to grasp, but there are people in the church who claim to be Christians, but are not. It’s not up to people of faith, either leadership or laity, to come up with a litmus test, because the Lord will reveal their slander. Jesus said to the church in Smyrna, “I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan” (Rev 2:9 NIV).

You Ought to be Teachers

Rather than cultivating and training new teachers, my church leadership stays with the status quo and allows only a handful men teach. The writer of Hebrews said, “We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 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 5:11 -14 NIV).

Persistence

Older folks struggle with the new progressive church and they continue to ask church leadership for compromise and to reinstate some traditional elements of worship — hymns, Sunday school, Sunday night worship, youth groups and children’s church. Even though their requests fall on deaf ears, it forces pastors to defend their personal direction for the church. The Parable of the Persistent Widow is applicable. Jesus said, “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared about men. And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’ “For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care about men, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually wear me out with her coming’” (Luke 18:2-5 NIV)!

Out With the Old and in With the New

For almost 13 years, five days a week, I’ve written a daily blog. I decide it is now time to organize the posts and see if there is a book hiding somewhere in the blogs. I’ve now sorted through two years’ worth of posts and I’m amazed by the pattern emerging. In general, every time a new pastor is hired it’s out with the old and in with the new. Elders, programs, music, staff, and membership are replaced with the new pastor’s vision. Casualties are strewn everywhere. Churches are not growing, but rather decreasing in attendance as they are deconstructed and reconstructed in the image put forth by each pastor. Paul said, “It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains” (Phil 1:15-17).

For Our Good

LifeWay, one of the nation’s biggest Christian retail chains, will close all of their 170 brick-and-mortar stores. Sadly, my local Christian book store is also closing, a causality of shoppers turning to the internet and mainstream books stores. The community of believers will grieve this loss, but Paul reminds us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Ro 8:28 NIV).

Worship In Style

Most of us don’t give much thought to how our worship has changed as we age. The writer of Hebrews said, “By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons, and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff” (Heb 11:21 NIV). I’m now imagining how believers worship the Lord while in a wheelchair, on a walker, or using a cane.   

Spreading the Message

My book, The Church Down the Street (working title), has a lot of quotes from pastors, speakers, teachers and lay people. Once published, the words and messages that I heard in a Sunday morning worship service will not be lost, but rather they have the potential to reach a national audience. I’m reminded of Mary, who poured perfume on the head of Jesus. Those present at the event were indignant at the waste of perfume. Jesus said, “Leave her alone,” said Jesus. “Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her” (Mark 14:6-9 NIV).

Wise Counsel

I submitted my non-fiction book manuscript to a publishing company, but the sample contract they sent back to me gave me pause. With counsel from some fellow writers I changed directions and submitted the manuscript to literary agent who, if he accepts the manuscript, will walk me through the publishing landmines. “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22 NIV).

Transition

A few years ago I bought a new NIV Study Bible and it’s still new. I keep using my old Bible even though some of the pages are falling out and the corners are turned up, the index tabs are no longer readable and the leather cover is worn and torn. My old Bible is so comfortable that the only way to transition to the new Bible is to throw the old away. It’s painful…I even dug it out of the trash once to compare it to the new Bible. I think of the followers of Moses having to transition from the Law to the grace found in Jesus Christ. Paul said, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come” (2 Cor 5:17 NIV)!

It’s Who You Know

Beyond writing the manuscript, there are a lot of moving parts to publishing a book. I’m now focused on the introduction, the foreword and endorsements. As for the endorsement, an expert in book marketing suggests getting anyone famous that you know personally to write a two-sentence testimonial. And, if you don’t know someone famous, maybe you know someone who knows someone famous. Humm, I don’t know anyone famous. However, I’m determined to find someone with name recognition, so yesterday I sent an email inquiry to former Governor Mike Huckabee. 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). Spiritually speaking it really is Who we know.

Penetrating the Soul

I’ve been thinking of the difference between praise song and hymns. While praise songs glorify God, they do not have the same depth that is found in the words of a hymn. I can tell that writers of hymns have spent time studying the Bible because I hear the Word of God in hymns. However, I’m beginning to suspect that many writers of praise songs are simply writing catchy, repetitive phrases, similar to a jingle. The writer of Hebrews said, “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double–edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (Heb 4:12 NIV).

In His Time

Last week I received a letter from the publishing company that is reviewing my book manuscript. I have to confess, I was nervous opening the letter, which could have been an acceptance or a rejection. The letter stated, “Your manuscript has an excellent chance of success if accepted. We are excited about your book and look forward to possibly partnering with you.” Not yet an acceptance, but definitely not a rejection. “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed” (Proverbs 16:3 NIV).

Martha, Martha

The media and political parties are making preparations for the 2020 election cycle. In our respective parties some are like Mary, who is not distracted by the political landscape and is at peace. Others are like Mary’s sister, Martha, who for the next year and a half will be on their knees in prayer and wringing our hands. Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:40-41 NIV).

Personal Trainer

I’m not into weight training and body shaping, but I go to the gym everyday simply to walk three miles on the treadmill. As I get acquainted with the gym community, a few fellow members let me know they are also physical trainers. I have to laugh. From their perspective they no doubt view me as someone who needs a trainer. Mature believers often do something similar when they assess a fellow believer as weak in faith and then all of the sudden the mature believer becomes a self-described spiritual trainer. Paul said, “Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters. One man’s faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. The man who eats everything must not look down on him who does not, and the man who does not eat everything must not condemn the man who does, for God has accepted him. Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand” (Ro 14:1-4 NIV).

Without Unity

Following the United Methodist Church recent vote to uphold the rules from the Book of Disciplines that no gay or lesbian people can serve as clergy, and same-sex marriage is forbidden, there is talk within the denomination about a church split. My local newspaper interviewed the Methodist pastor, who supports LGTB clergy. She said, “I still think they are lovely people even though they don’t believe the things that I believe. And that’s where some of this grew from, and it’s been a struggle for years, trying to continue to live together. I mean there are not a lot of churches where you can sit in the pew next to somebody and have a completely different belief system than they do and still call yourselves united and together.” The Apostle Paul disagrees with this type of sentiment. Paul said, “I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought” (1 Cor 1:10 NIV).

The Gospel in Hymns

In one church, at the conclusion of singing hymns, the speaker said, “If we’ve taken heed to the words of the songs we’re singing today we could probably all go home.” Reciting a few phrases and verses he said, “Living he loved me, dying he saved me …One day he’s coming, Oh Glorious day. Those messages are on my heart.” I understand that praise songs are a means of worship, but repetitious phrases of praise do not contain the Gospel message that is found in traditional hymns.

Catering Service

Today’s church is being engineered so we can no longer invite just anyone to our church. The effort to specialize in attracting certain demographics (family, young adult, charismatic, all-inclusive, etc.) dictates what type of people the church intends to serve. The United Methodist Church voted to affirm the rules from the Book of Disciplines that no gay or lesbian people can serve as clergy, and same-sex marriage is forbidden. An openly gay bishop in the denomination is reported as saying she is concerned people won’t want to be a part of a church that doesn’t cater to others like themselves. I’m trying to wrap my head around the idea that, rather than growing and maturing disciples of Christ, churches now see their role as catering to certain groups of people.

I Think Can Do That Job

On more than one occasion I’ve heard someone in church leadership (teacher, deacon, or elder) say the Lord has called them to preach and they simply step into a pulpit position that is open, or they start their own church. No doubt the Spirit calls us to ministry, but I’ve yet to encounter any of these presumptive pastors who then go on to seminary, or take online classes for the ministry. It’s as though they feel their success as Bible study leader or Sunday school teacher is all the credentials needed in order to be a preacher. Which begs the question, are people in the pew looking at preachers and thinking anyone can do their job?

Stop Sinning

The General Conference of the United Methodist Church recently voted to affirm the rules from the Book of Disciplines that no gay or lesbian people can serve as clergy, and same-sex marriage is forbidden. The local Methodist Church, who is committed to inclusiveness, is rebelling against the decision. The sign at the entrance to the church reads, “WE LOVE YOU JUST THE WAY YOU ARE.” Certainly, we all come to the Lord as sinners and imperfect people and the Lord, as well as the church, accepts us as we are at that moment. However, once we become a Christian we can no longer remain in our sin, but we are a new creation and we are to take on the likeness of Christ. In many respects we are all like the man by the pool at Bethesda. Jesus asked the invalid if he wanted to get well and then healed the man. “Later Jesus found him at the temple and said to him, “See, you are well again. Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you” (John 5:14 NIV).

Whatever You Do

With the exception of the introduction and the conclusion, the non-fiction book I’ve been writing for the last six months is complete and in the hands of a perspective publisher. It remains to be seen whether the manuscript will ever be published, but the effort I invested in the project has produced fruit in me. Paul said, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Col 3:17 NIV).

Liars

In his sworn testimony before Congress Michael Cohen, the convicted liar and former attorney of President Trump said, “I have lied, but I’m not a liar. I have done bad things, but I am not a bad person.” Not only is his statement laughable, it is impossible for people who have been lied to in the past to believe. We all know someone — a friend, family member or co-worker, who is a liar. Such behavior is not acceptable in a Christian. Paul said, “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Col 3:9-10 NIV).

Christian Networking

Last weekend I attended Writers on the Rock, a Christian writers conference held in Denver. The value of networking with other Christian writers is invaluable, not to mention the encouragement from keynote speakers Jerry Jenkins and Philip Yancey. The writer of Hebrews also reminds believers about the importance of networking, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Heb 10:24-25 NIV).

Give Us Barabbas

Jesus was before Pilate and he said to the crowd, “I find no basis for a charge against him. But it is your custom for me to release to you one prisoner at the time of the Passover. Do you want me to release ‘the king of the Jews’?” They shouted back, “No, not him! Give us Barabbas” (John 18:38b-40a NIV)! It gives me pause to think that many believers shout a similar message today on Sunday mornings. Rather than wanting to hear a message about Jesus Christ, they insist on entertainment, being active in social causes and starting a new church program. We should be shouting, “Give us Jesus!”

Signing In

I weary with all the passwords and sign-ins needed for the computer and the internet. Even in managing my own accounts I must sign out of one in order to sign in to another. I see something similar in different religious denominations who impose man made sign-ins in order to be accepted into their fellowship. The only sign-in God requires it that we believe that Jesus is the Son of God and that we accept Him as Lord and Savior.

The Power of the Gospel

 Jesus healed a deaf and mute man, “People were overwhelmed with amazement. “He has done everything well,” they said. “He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak” (Mark 7:37 NIV). Jesus does the same for us today. Wherever the Gospel is preached, and whenever it is read, there is opportunity for the spiritually deaf hear and the mute speak. On multiple occasions Jesus said, “He who has ears, let him hear” (Matt 11:15 NIV).

No One is Above Reproach

Even though many of us are seasoned believers, there are times when church leadership discounts our opinions and refuses to accept our counsel. After the resurrection, Jesus first appeared to Mary Magdalene. When she told those who were mourning that she had seen Jesus alive they did not believe her. Afterward Jesus appeared to two disciples while they were walking in the country. Once again, the disciples did not believe this firsthand account. Mark wrote, “Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen” (Mark 16:14 NIV).

Pick Up Your Mat

Many highway intersections have been taken over by beggars with cardboard signs claiming handicaps, illness and hard luck. While some people have tried to minister to these folks, most people simply hand them money. I’m reminded of the invalid at the pool of Bethesda. “When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he ask, “Do you want to get well” (John 5:6 NIV)? It occurs to me that even though we do not have the power to heal, the Lord’s question is one that is pertinent even today.  

A Time and a Season

With all the mass shootings being reported there is a common phrase coming from the media about the victims, “Their life was cut short.” I imagine the disciples had a similar thought at the death of Jesus. King Solomon wrote, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die…” (Ecc 3:1-2a NIV).

Spirit Led

My charismatic friend thinks a worship service should not have a scheduled time to end. She feels worship should go on for as long as the Spirit intends. While I understand where she is coming from, most of today’s services are not Spirit led. In my over 120 unannounced visits to local churches, it is the pastor who controls not only the length of the service, but the emotional aspects of the service. At one church when it appeared time was getting short the pastor said, “Don’t worry. At the end of the service I’m going to give you time to dance, shout and run around!” 

Worth Sharing

I often see random Facebook posts where the sender tries to blackmail the reader with, “I bet I won’t even get one share.” For most of us, if we see a good post, we will want to share it with others. Similarly, when we hear a thought-provoking sermon, meditation or testimony we repeat it, or share the gist of it with others. I’m trying to imagine any of the New Testament writers saying, “I bet I won’t even get one share.” Paul concluded his letter to the church at Colosse, “After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea” (Col 4:16 NIV).

Heavenly Dwellings

We are in the planning process to build a new house. While some friends and family have offered suggestions to think about, others have forcefully told me what I need to include in the plans. I must admit I have not responded well to those who insist they know better than I, what it is that I need. It occurs to me that we do something similar to people who we perceive are weak in faith. We try to help them build their heavenly dwelling by insisting we know what they need to do here on earth. Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am” (John 14:1-3 NIV).

Christian Witness

I know a business woman who continues to come up against roadblocks set up by establishment men. She is a woman of faith and her current business endeavors include reaching out into the faith community. Some of the entities she contacted have not returned her calls and she said, “I’m afraid even the Christians don’t like me very much.” I don’t know the details behind her thoughts and feelings, but it is a reminder to me that we, as individuals and as businesses, have a responsibility when we put on the name Christian. Peter said, “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us” (1 Peter 2:12 NIV).

Destroyed From Within

On a national security level, we are on guard because we know Russia and China are trying to infiltrate America on a number of levels. For believers, the idea that Satan and other world religions would infiltrate the Christian church is the furthest thing from our mind. However, the reality is that believers are an easy target when we fail to realize the enemy wants to destroy the church. The church in Pergamum, a place where Satan lives and has his throne, is one example. Believers today are negligent if we do not heed the Lord’s warning. Jesus said, “Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality. Likewise you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth” (Rev 2:14-16 NIV).

Promoting the Book

As I continue to work on my book and I’m considering going through an agent, rather than submitting directly to a publisher. One thing both agents and publishers want to know is how I will participate in promoting and marketing the book. I find that in answering their questions, I’m spending more time trying to sell myself than I am trying to sell the book. I suspect many preachers fall into a similar trap. While always trying to relate to the audience they are, in many cases, selling themselves rather than selling The Book. Paul said, “I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power” (1Co 2:3-5 NIV).

It’s All About Me

More and more the columns published in my local newspaper are all about the writer, his friends and his family. It’s as though the writers are using these columns as their own personal blog and they believe all subscribers are interested in their lives. Paul cautions believers about a similar attitude, “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” (Ro 12:3 NIV).

We Don’t Need You

I often stumble across qualified teachers in the church who have taught adult classes in the past and have volunteered to teach again; however, their current church leadership will not let them teach. We know the Lord appoints teachers in the church, so it is curious that leadership would keep these teachers from their called position. Paul said, “But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be” (1 Cor 12:18 NIV).

Abandoning Their Call

The Lord called, “…some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Eph 4:11-13 NIV). In re-evaluating the sermons I’ve listened to over the last few years, I have to wonder if some preachers have abandoned their calling and are now are simply speakers, presenters and entertainers. The message for some pastors no longer comes from personal Bible study, but rather from sermons purchased off the Internet. To merely read a script is not preaching, it’s acting.

Do Not Be Overcome

Most of us are not in a position to make laws, but we do what we can to influence lawmakers to do the right thing. Abortion laws are so horrific and detestable to people of faith that, if we let it, we can be consumed with grief and anger. Paul reminds us, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Ro 12:17-21 NIV).

Innocent Blood

The blood of aborted babies is on the hands of all who condone this evil. However, that doesn’t deter liberals and politicians from taking part in the murder of the innocent. Their collective voice is one we’ve heard before. Pilate determined that Jesus had not committed any crime and in front of the crowd declared, “I am innocent of this man’s blood. It is your responsibility!” All the people answered, “Let his blood be on us and on our children” (Matt 27:24b-25 NIV)!

Victory in Resistance

America has been fighting the war in Afghanistan for over 17 years with no clear-cut victory and the President wants to get out of the conflict. However, the Joint Chiefs and many politicians want to remain in country as a stabilizing force. I see something similar in the church. Rather than having victory over Satan, many believers would rather try to stabilize his influence. James said, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double–minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up” (James 4:7 NIV).

Senior Citizens Sit at the Feet of Church Leaders

In the waiting room of the doctor’s office I visited with an older woman who proudly said she was a life-long Southern Baptist. She loves her church, but grieves because hymns have been replaced with repetitive praise songs. She said, “I so miss the hymns. They want to sing other songs to bring in younger people.” I often hear the same lament from other seniors and I’m becoming more convinced that church leadership is practicing favoritism — favoring the younger generation over the needs of the older generation. James said, “My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don’t show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts” (James 2:1-4 NIV)?

Preach the Word

After the stoning of Stephen, a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem and Saul began to destroy the church. If something similar happened to the church in our town today many of us would likely keep our heads down and pray for the persecution to pass, rather than looking for opportunities to serve. Luke wrote, “Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ there. When the crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said” (Acts 8:4-6 NIV).

The New Has Come

A couple weeks ago I went shopping for some new tops and it dawned on me that from a clothing-style perspective, I no longer know who I am. The styles I once wore no longer fit who I am today. In my teens I felt something similar after I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior, made the good confession and was baptized. As a born-again Christian, I was no longer who I once was. Paul said, “So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come” (2 Cor 5:16-17 NIV)!

Doing Your Best

The enemies of President Trump are rejoicing because in their words, “Trump caved and opened up the government without getting any money for boarder security.” The picture they paint is that Trump failed, lost and was defeated. Parents teach children that it is not always about winning or losing, but rather that they tried their best. From my perspective Trump is a winner, whether or not he succeeded, simply because he did his best to fulfill the campaign promise he made to voters. Paul tells people of faith to do their best. He said, “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 Tim 2:15 NIV).

Mediator

People of faith sometimes view church leaders as the head of the church. Priests, preachers, and elders are shepherds of the church; however, church leadership is not to assume the role as mediator between believers and God. Paul said, “For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all men—the testimony given in its proper time” (1 Tim 2:5-6 NIV).

The Progressive Wing

My friend remains active as a Seventh Day Adventist, but she shared with me that she would be much happier if there were a progressive wing of the denomination. Webster’s definition of progressive is, (1) of, relating to, or characterized by progress. (2) making use of or interested in new ideas, findings or opportunities. No doubt there are also people in mainstream churches who have a similar desire be progressive. However, Paul cautioned, “As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let him be eternally condemned! Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel I preached is not something that man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ” (Gal 1:9-12 NIV).

The Father Knows What We Need

A friend and I were discussing various churches and he said, “I think my church is the poorest [financially] in town.” He went on to say that most of the church membership has a hard time supporting themselves, much less supporting the church. It occurs to me that the words Jesus applied to individuals are also applicable to the collective body of Christ. Jesus said, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life” (Matt 6:26 NIV)?

Stand Firm

At the Lincoln Memorial this weekend Native American veteran Nathan Phillips encountered a group of Catholic high school students who were participating in the Right for Life march, and who were also wearing Make America Great (MAGA) hats. The 64-year-old Indian activist approached the students, beat his drum and sang Indian chants just inches away from the face of one young man. Catholic student Nick Sandmann responded by simply smiling and standing firmly in place. Sandmann, who described himself as a faithful Christian and a practicing Catholic, thought if he just stood still without reacting it would defuse the situation. Because of the MAGA hats, the mainstream media painted the Catholic students as aggressors and many on social media piled on without knowing the facts. Young Mr. Sandmann showed remarkable Christian maturity by standing firm. Paul said, “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Cor 15:58 NIV).

You Are a Seal

Some people questioned Paul’s apostleship and he responded, “Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not the result of my work in the Lord? Even though I may not be an apostle to others, surely I am to you! For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord” (1 Cor 9:1-2 NIV). It occurs to me that the spiritual maturity and strength of believers today is also the result of the work of church leaders (preachers, elders, deacons) and that we are a seal of their positions in the Lord.

Do What is Right

Returning home from Denver I stopped for a break in a mountain town and went through three roundabouts before I could get to the rest area. On my way back to the Interstate I took the off ramp in one of the roundabouts and wound up on the Interstate…but going the wrong direction. I was forced to go nine miles to the next exit before I could legally turn around and retrace my steps. In those nine miles I passed numerous highway crossovers with signs that said “Authorized Vehicles Only,” but I resisted the temptation to use the emergency services crossover for fear of getting a ticket from the State Patrol. 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. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you” (Ro 13:1-3 NIV).

Advancing the Enemy

During a speech in Cairo, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo stated the position of the US in working with others and the repercussions. He said, “…and when we partner with our enemies they advance.” In hindsight there are times when believers unintentionally partner with Satan. We repent and move on; however, we seldom give much thought to the long-range effects, and that we have in fact advanced the enemy. “But the LORD God called to the man, “Where are you?” He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” And he said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?” The man said, “The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.” Then the LORD God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?” The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate” (Gen 3:9-13 NIV).

Lacking Zeal for the Gospel

In preparation for writing a book I’m going through the articles I wrote about church visits and categorizing the elements of worship — hospitality, sermons, bulletins, etc. After reviewing the sermons, I realize that many of them were a social, political and denominational gospel, rather than the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Out of more than 120 church visits there are only a handful of sermons that were convicting and thought provoking enough for me to tell others about the message I heard. Paul said, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith” (Ro 1:16-17 NIV).

Vantage Point

When I visited my daughter, who lives on the side of a mountain overlooking Denver, we were hit with a major snow storm. For over 24-hours we didn’t see the sun and we received over nine-inches of snow. From my vantage point I thought the whole area was getting hammered, but not so. While her subdivision roads were almost impassable, the metro area below received a mere three inches of snow. When we get caught in a spiritual storm and can’t see the rays of the Son we need to remind ourselves that God’s vantage point is different than ours. Proverbs said, “When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever” (Proverbs 10:25 NIV).

Church Coveting

I discussed the lack of growth with a church leader and he said, “I just wonder how Saddleback Church does it.” God has not allowed all churches to become a mega church, but the desire of church leadership to become another Saddleback can have the appearance of coveting. James said, “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but don’t get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures” (James 4:1-3 NIV).

Have a Blessed Day

After I complete a transaction it’s my habit to tell the clerk or customer service representative, “Have a good day.”  During my last trip to Walmart the clerk who scanned my purchases turned our brief encounter into an opportunity to share his faith in God. When he handed me my receipt the rote phrase “have a good day” didn’t seem quite adequate; however, “Have a blessed day” rolled easily off my tongue. Paul said, “Consider Abraham: “He believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” Understand, then, that those who believe are children of Abraham. The Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: “All nations will be blessed through you.” So those who have faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith” (Gal 3:6-9 NIV).

Called to Preach

More and more pastors are getting sermon material off the internet and from other sources, rather than preparing sermons specific to the needs of their congregation. Paul said of Jesus, “It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Eph 4:1113 NIV). I’m now trying to imagine an apostle or a prophet going to other sources in order to accomplish the task the Lord called them to.   

Appearances

I called a local church to find out their denominational roots and the secretary said, “Why do you want to know?” Churches today, in an effort to market themselves, are doing their best to conceal their denominational identity. They have removed denominational tags from the church name, bulletins, websites and letterheads. We all know the Lord would prefer we not have denominations and divisions. However, denominational tags help people determine where they want to worship. It is deceptive and manipulative for a church to withhold their denominational slant in order to give the appearance of a non-denominational church. Paul said of divisions, “No doubt there have to be differences among you to show which of you have God’s approval” (1Cor 11:19 NIV).

The Law is Good

A couple years ago our kids gave us a weather station for Christmas. Last week, during our first cold snap of the year, I sat in a warm house and watched the temperature plummet to -6 degrees. Had it not been for the weather station continually updating the data I would not have known how bitterly cold it was outside. I now have a better understanding of Paul explanation of the law. “What shall we say, then? Is the law sin? Certainly not! Indeed I would not have known what sin was except through the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, “Do not covet.” But sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, produced in me every kind of covetous desire. For apart from law, sin is dead. Once I was alive apart from law; but when the commandment came, sin sprang to life and I died. I found that the very commandment that was intended to bring life actually brought death” (Rom 7:710 NIV).

Love Does Not Boast

Many of us remember going to school and finding out that all our friends attended a Birthday party, but we weren’t invited. I felt that same familiar sting when a pastor announced, “Some of us went to a party last night, and you know who you are…” I have no doubt the pastor was trying to use the anecdote as a warm up to start his sermon. However, knowing his intention made me no less uncomfortable for those who were not invited to the party. Paul said, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud” (1 Cor 13:4 NIV).

Sermon Prep

A snippet from a brief bio describing a Christian workshop leader said, “She also does biblical research, sermon prep, and styling for pastors at a multi-site Midwestern megachurch of 12,000.” It appears that the days of a pastor spending 20-hours a week in sermon preparation are over. I now wonder how many of today’s pulpits are filled with actors who simply want to learn a script. Paul said, “It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Eph 4:11-13 NIV).

Harvest Field

On my way to church the last few weeks I’ve noticed a sandwich-board on a sidewalk in front of a trailer park advertising a place for people to go to learn about Jesus. I’m guessing this is a fledgling church, but I find it curious since there are at least five established churches within a mile of the trailer park. That being said, I love the fact that someone in the trailer park saw the need to bring Jesus into their neighborhood.  Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field” (Luke 10:2 NIV).

Solid Food

My bookshelves are full of books on the craft of writing and when I decided to de-clutter I started going through the books. Because I highlight and underline it was easy re-read the highlights and evaluate whether or not I needed to keep them. I was surprised at how I have grown and implemented most of what the books had to offer. I’m now looking at my Bible with a new perspective — as a measure of maturity. The writer of Hebrews said, “We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 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 5:11-14 NIV).

Happy New Year

In the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, welcome to 2019!