Life Application

The church continues to develop programs and studies to help people understand the Bible and apply it to their lives. I get the concept; however, teaching “life application” to adults implies they don’t have the wherewithal to hear the Gospel and make application for themselves. 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).

Healing vs. Relief

When people have an incurable disease or long-time disability many of us stop praying for healing and focus our prayers on the symptoms. Two blind men were sitting by the roadside when they heard Jesus was going by. When they called out to Jesus he said, “What do you want me to do for you?” The men didn’t ask for new canes, handicapped housing or live-in care-givers, “Lord,” they answered, “we want our sight.” Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him” (Matt 20:32-34 NIV).

Mouthy

The body of Christ as being made up of many parts and each of us has a part of it. There should be no division in the body and we should have equal concern for each other. Paul said, “If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason cease to be part of the 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 12:15-16; 21 NIV)! It occurs to me that the one thing all these body parts have in common, and the one thing that always gets them in trouble, is the fact that they have a mouth. 

Agenda

The Voice is a blind audition singing competition and one element of the television series is to give the backstory of contestants. Recently transgender participant was asked what it meant to be a participant on The Voice the she-turned-he said, “I want people to see me for who I am.” My sense is that this person would rather use the platform to wave a transgender flag than they would to showcase their talent. Unfortunately, the church is not immune to such personal agendas. We sometimes allow our ministry efforts to become more import than the One we minister for, that is Jesus Christ. 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).

Covetousness

Many Democratic presidential candidates are, in one form or another, promoting socialism. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren plan to take money from the wealthiest Americans and give it to others and in doing so they want us to believe they are looking out for the interests of the less fortunate. However, these political candidates are so obsessed with wealth that I’m now wondering if they aren’t in fact leading their supporters into coveting wealth. Paul said, “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “Do not commit adultery,” “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not covet,” and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law” (Romans 13:8-10 NIV).

Pressing Forward

A Facebook post stated that Ken, a high school friend, was recently admitted to hospice and will now reside in a care facility. One of his former high school buddies commented on the post, “I’m sorry I haven’t been a better friend.” These classmates, who graduated more than 50 year ago, have apparently remained friendly, but the friendship itself appears to have faded. Spiritually speaking, some of us may have regrets for not being a better friend to Jesus over the last 50 years. Paul, who persecuted Jesus, is an example for us to press forward, “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Phil 3:12-14 NIV).

Do Not Even Judge Yourself

God calls us into ministry and service, but unfortunately fellow believers sometimes waylay our efforts as we try to respond to that call. It’s not unusual to be kept from teaching, leading and serving because others judge us by human standards. Paul reminds us that it is the Lord who judges us, “So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the secret things of God. Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful. I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me. 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 4:3-5 NIV).

What Some of You Were

Most of us evaluate others on the basis of who they are today, rather than who they might become. For instance, I would have a hard time seeing a convicted serial killer as anything other than a serial killer. However, Paul brought me up short when he said, “Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God” (emphasis added, 1 Cor 6:9-11 NIV).

Spreading a Net

Yet again the Democrats are trying to entrap President Trump by calling into question his conversation with the Ukrainian President. Solomon wrote, “How useless to spread a net in full view of all the birds! These men lie in wait for their own blood; they waylay only themselves! Such is the end of all who go after ill-gotten gain; it takes away the lives of those who get it” (Proverbs 1:17-19 NIV).

Obligated to the Foolish

Paul longed to visit the believers in Rome so that he might impart some spiritual gift to make them strong and that they might be encouraged by each other’s faith. Paul said, “I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that I planned many times to come to you (but have been prevented from doing so until now) in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles. I am obligated both to Greeks and non–Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are at Rome” (Romans 1:13-15 NIV). I understand Paul feeling obligated to both Greeks and non-Greeks, but I’m trying to wrap my head around his obligation to the wise and the foolish.

If You Believe

The pastor said, “There are times in our life when we want others to pray for us because we don’t feel our own prayers are enough.” Of course there are many reasons to ask others to pray for us and there is power in collective prayers. However, Scripture never says that an individual’s prayers are not enough. Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer” (Matt 21:21-22 NIV).

Make America Great Again

I happen to like President Trumps motto, “Make America Great Again”. However, the motto can give the false sense that citizens are the ones who have the power to fashion America. When in Pisidian Antioch Paul was allowed to speak in the synagogue. “Standing up, Paul motioned with his hand and said: “Men of Israel and you Gentiles who worship God, listen to me! The God of the people of Israel chose our fathers; he made the people prosper during their stay in Egypt, with mighty power he led them out of that country, he endured their conduct for about forty years in the desert, he overthrew seven nations in Canaan and gave their land to his people as their inheritance. All this took about 450 years” (Acts 13:16-20 NIV). We should be reminded that in America’s 243 years of existence our prosperity, then as now, is credited to God alone.  

What’s in a Name

My car died and since it is still under warranty it had to be transported 250 miles over the mountains to the closest dealership in the metro area. It was a relief to find out it was just the battery and a quick fix; however, the time it took to transport the car to and from the dealership meant I was without the car for a week. Since we weren’t close enough to the dealership to get a loaner vehicle, I was relegated to drive Bill’s old truck — which has white paint peeling off in chunks, the turn radius of a tank, a broken gas gage and a misaligned shift indicator. It was a humbling experience. However, I decided I could give the truck more prestige if I simply re-named it and called it “the farm truck”.  As a follower of Christ, we too have a new name and ambiance. Peter said, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy” (1 Peter 2:9-10 NIV).

Climate Change

Many people say climate change is man-made and they predict what the future of the world will look like if we don't sign on to the Green New Deal. However, the prophet Joel revealed what God said about climate change in the last days, “I will show wonders in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke. The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord. And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved’” (Acts 2:19-21 NIV).

Cast Out of Heaven

The Apostle Paul caused a riot in Ephesus when it was reported that he said man-made gods were no gods at all. For two hours the crowd shouted, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” The city clerk quieted the crowd and said, “Men of Ephesus, doesn’t all the world know that the city of Ephesus is the guardian of the temple of the great Artemis and of her image, which fell from heaven? Therefore, since these facts are undeniable, you ought to be quiet and not do anything rash” (Acts 19:35-36 NIV). I have to laugh at these undeniable facts; particularly the idea that being cast out of heaven is a qualification for being a god. Peter said, “For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment…” (2 Peter 2:4 NIV).

Arbiter for the Spirit

My pianist friend was in charge of the music sets for her congregational worship, but a church administrator asked her substitute other selections. When the pianist explained she could not and would not make last minute changes, the administrator said, “Well, you obviously aren’t listening to the moving of the Spirit.” To her credit the administrator came back later to the pianist and apologized; however, it is clear that the administrator thinks she is an arbiter for the Spirit. Paul said, “If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like–minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:1-4 NIV).

Alive and Active

In his attempt to relate to the congregation my pastor unwittingly devalues the Bible and hinders the power found in the Word of God. On multiple occasions he has said the Bible is hard to understand. Sunday his sermon began, “To some of you the book of Hebrews is boring.” The writer of Hebrews most certainly takes exception to the comment, “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” (Heb 4:12 NIV).

Tarnished Temple

In Hollywood and on television homosexuality is pervasive. Even though actors may try to convince the viewing public that they are only acting, I’m bewildered that heterosexual actors would play the part of a gay with such a display of sexual acts. Paul said, “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is sacred, and you are that temple” (1 Cor 3:16-17).

Blind Spot

Some believers think they can follow Jesus by walking in His blind spot. It should give us pause to know that it is not just our walk that the Lord sees, but it is also the motives of our heart. Paul said, “My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me. 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 4:4-5 NIV).

Let Your Light Shine

A man who plays guitar in a local band said, “Right now there are only three of us, but we have another guy who is going to start playing with us.” He laughed and said, “We need another person. It’s hard to hide when there are only three people.” Believers can feel a similar reservation when it comes to sharing flickering flames of faith. However, Jesus said, “No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken from him” (Luke 8:16-18 NIV).

Teach Us to Pray

Jesus went up on a mountainside and began to teach his disciples, the session included the Lord’s model prayer (Matt 6:9-13). It appears that later in Jesus’ ministry an unnamed disciple said, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples” (Luke 11:1b NIV). I’m wondering if this particular disciple was a new recruit, or if perhaps he had missed the Sermon on the Mount and the lesson on prayer. Jesus said to them, “When you pray, say: “‘Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation’”. (Luke 1:2-4 NIV).

Know Who You Are

Often Christians are bold and courageous until someone stops us in our tracks by saying, “Just who do you think you are?” At the gym I go to everyday there is woman who is so disagreeable that everyone goes out of their way to avoid her, even to the point of not making eye contact. Over the Labor Day weekend this vixen personally took me to task when I ask the attendant to adjust one station on the bank of eight television sets. In a loud voice she said, “Oh great, so everyone gets to watch Fox News!” I said, “Well, yes we can.” She colored the air blue with, “What the #@*#?” It wasn’t until the next day that I confronted her about her bad behavior and informed her that she would not again speak to me in such a manner…and that she really did not want me as her enemy. She said, “Who do you think you are?” I recalled that some Jews confronted Jesus in a similar way, “Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?”  Jesus replied, “If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me” (John 8:53-54 NIV). In my situation the Holy Spirit prompted me look her in the eye and simply say, “I know who I am.”

Tradition

It’s been my church experience to have two communion trays, one for the bread and the other for the juice. The emblems were served in an orderly manner with the plate of bread passed down the pew from one person to the next, followed by the juice. When we established a new church, we went with a more efficient one-piece communion tray where the bread is placed in the small center section of the tray, surrounded by thimble sized cups of juice. After taking communion last Sunday I watched as the person next to me partook of the emblems and I was surprised when they drank the juice first and then they took the bread. I wanted to say, “Stop! That’s not the right order. You eat the bread first and then drink the juice.” The order in which we consume the emblems is of little importance, but it does give those of us who are rule followers mental whiplash. Paul said, “For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “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.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes” (1 Cor 11:23-26).

Frenemy

As a former elected official, I’ve made it a point to keep political enemies at arm’s length. However, last week I was caught off guard when I came face to face a former enemy while shopping at Walmart. He reached out to shake my hand and after his greeting we spent five-minutes discussing local politics. He avoided talking about the personal attacks he’d made, but he expressed regret for being manipulated, deceived and used by others. I’ve never really understood how people can be enemies one day and then cordial the next, but it is possible. Jesus was taken before Pilate and Herod, “The chief priests and the teachers of the law were standing there, vehemently accusing him. Then Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked him. Dressing him in an elegant robe, they sent him back to Pilate. That day Herod and Pilate became friends—before this they had been enemies” (Luke 23:10-12 NIV).

Preparing a Place

The new house we are building is adjacent to our current residence and I can step out on my back deck and watch as every 2 X 4 is framed, every shingle nailed and every window and door hung. It can be exciting. However, it takes a minimum of six months for construction, so it can also be like watching paint dry. This experience has put the construction of my heavenly dwelling into a whole new perspective. 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. You know the way to the place where I am going” (John 14: 1-4 NIV).

Abandoning Your Faith

In his Sunday sermon my pastor mentioned two prominent, celebrity-type preachers who are going through a crisis of faith. I’m guessing the pastor did not give their names because he didn’t want the appearance of having spread rumors about another pastor. However, it’s important for us to know the names of celebrated Christian authors, speaker or leaders who go over a spiritual cliff and renounce their faith, if for no other reason than we no longer purchase their books. Paul said, “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron” (1 Tim 4:1-2 NIV).

The Winds and the Waves Obey God

Hurricane Dorian is poised to hit the US this week and I expect the media to report that global warming played a role in the severity. However, I did not expect conspiracy theories that this category-five storm is deliberately man-caused. I’m baffled when people try to marginalize God by asserting that man controls nature. Jesus and the disciples were on the lake when a furious storm came up and the waves swept over the boat. Jesus was sleeping, “The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” He replied, “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 8:25-27 NIV).

Labor Day

Having enjoyed the Labor Day weekend, I’m mindful that my generation is reaping the benefits of past generations. Jesus said, “Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. Thus the saying ‘One sows and another reaps’ is true. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor” (John 4:36-38 NIV).

Asking Jesus to Leave

Jesus healed a demon-possessed man who was possessed by a collection of demons named Legion. Jesus drove them out and when he gave them permission to go into a herd of pigs, the pigs rushed down a steep bank and drown in a lake. When the townspeople learned what had happened and saw that the demon-possessed man had been cured they were afraid. I can understand their fear, but I don’t understand their actions, “Then all the people of the region of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave them, because they were overcome with fear. So he got into the boat and left” (Luke 8:38 NIV). It gives me pause to know that when we call, Jesus is there; but if we ask him to leave, he leaves.

The Cost of Following Jesus

We are building a house adjacent to our existing residence and although it is now weathered in, the exterior doors are not yet in place. A couple nights ago a neighbor alerted us that he’d seen a guy entering the new house with a backpack and he suspected the man planned on spending the night. In hindsight we should have called the police, but Bill and I took it upon ourselves to check it out. The squatter had already opened up his bedroll in the pantry and was talking on his cell phone to someone about “smoking weed.” Out of the dark Bill said, “Not in my house you don’t!” Quickly stuffing his bedroll in a duffel bag the man apologized as he scurried out of the house. As the man disappeared down the street, I couldn’t help but speculate on where he would sleep that night. There is a cost to choosing the life of a transient or vagabond. Similarly, following Jesus is a life choice and it too comes at a cost. Jesus said, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head” (Luke 9:58 NIV).  

By Invitation Only

In a board meeting and the speaker began his public prayer, “Lord, we invite your presence to this meeting.” While I understand the intent of the man’s prayer, I have to laugh at the idea that the Lord needs an invitation to be in our midst. Jesus said, “Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them” (Matt 18:19-20 NIV).

Deserving or Undeserving

Some elders of the Jews petitioned Jesus to heal the servant of a Centurion, “When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, “This man deserves to have you do this, because he loves our nation and has built our synagogue.” So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed” (Luke 7:4-7 NIV). It’s interesting that others sometime measure us differently that we measure ourselves. The elders thought the Centurion deserving, but yet the Centurion though himself undeserving.  

Highly Regarded

Our current house is on the market and right away we received an offer; however, the offer was much lower than the asking price. After dealing with the indignation we made a counter offer, but it remains to be seen if the buyer will accept it. It’s not that I want more than the property is worth, but neither do I want less. On a personal level I consider myself humble, but it appears I have more to learn when it comes to personal property. Paul said, “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself [or your personal property] 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 emphasis added).

Watch

When I know someone is coming to my house, whether it is a paperboy, the mailman or a friend, I watch for them. Without a doubt we know Jesus is coming again, yet many of us watch for Him with less urgency and expectancy than we use for a deliveryman.  Jesus said, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him” (Matt 24:42-44 NIV).

It’s Our Responsibility

When we sin against another, the last person we want to go to and ask forgiveness from is the one we’ve sinned against. Often, we look to others to help us salve our conscious and absolve us from the sin — God, a friend, a priest, those in authority. Judas did something similar, “When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty silver coins to the chief priests and the elders. “I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.” “What is that to us?” they replied. “That’s your responsibility” (Matt 27:3-5 NIV).

Favoritism

Whether you’re a mom, a grill master, or a restaurant chef, you usually cook for the enjoyment of others. In the church, leadership often gets frustrated trying to please people (music style, programs, etc.) and they may resort to making choices to please themselves. The justification for favoring their own choice over the desires of others becomes, “You can’t please everyone.” Favoritism, even favoritism towards oneself, is forbidden. James said, “If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it” (James 2:8-10 NIV).

Preparedness

We just listed our house with a realtor and now I have to prepare for local realtors to tour my home and to schedule showings for perspective buyers. I’m not concerned with getting it ready to show, but rather in keeping it show-ready. Until we get a contract on the house, I’m going to be forced to stay in a state of readiness. Spiritually speaking, Paul gives us a similar charge, “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15a NIV).

One and the Same Spirit

As believers observe one another, they should see an identifiable Christ likeness in word and deeds. However, the vision for some people is clouded by race, gender, political party and denominational leanings and they fail to see Christ. Let me suggest we put on spiritual glasses and not only look for the Holy Spirit living in others, but acknowledge that the Spirit living within you is the same Spirit living in others. 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).

Practice What You Preach

Rebellion against authority abounds at all levels — local, state and federal, and yes, even in the church. Jesus said to the crowd and to his disciples, “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach” (Matt 23:2-3 NIV). On a civil level it’s easy to obey and do what authorities tell me to do even though I may not agree with a particular law. However, when it comes to a man-made religious laws and hypocrisy, I’m hard pressed to obey and do everything I’m told to do.

Co-Conspirators

Acquaintances of criminals can sometimes knowingly, or unknowingly, have a hand in criminal activity. We’re hearing more and more about people being charged as co-conspirators in such offenses as sex trafficking, illegal gun purchase and fraud. I’m sure these people never thought of themselves as co-conspirators, or ever dreamed the crimes committed by their friends would come back to bite them. People of faith can also get caught up and trapped if we associate with the wrong people. Paul warns, “Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Cor 15:33 NIV).

Enslaved

Most of us don’t consciously look back on our life without Christ. We’d rather focus on growing and maturing as a believer. However, by looking back we can see where we, like the Galatians, were enslaved. Paul said, “Formerly, when you did not know God, you were slaves to those who by nature are not gods. But now that you know God—or rather are known by God—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again” (Gal 4:8-9 NIV)?

Firstfruits

In an ongoing TV series, it’s not unusual to see video clips of the previous segment to help viewers recall where they are in the story-line. Likewise, as kids return from summer vacation, teachers sometimes give a brief overview to get students up to speed. In a series of sermons preachers seem to use this review method on the off-chance that there is someone new in the audience, or that the audience has forgotten last week's message. However, for those of us who were in attendance the previous week, the review is unnecessary and frustrating. When the review takes up the first half of the time allotted for the message then it is no longer the firstfruits of the pastor’s preparation, it’s a re-run. Proverbs said, “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine” (Proverbs 3:9-10 NIV).

The Door

My neighbor put in a dog door for her Australian Shepherd, but the dog is afraid of the door and won’t use it. However, that hasn’t stopped her young daughter, Moria, from scrambling back and forth and claiming the doggie-door as her own. Unfortunately, many people today are similar to the Australian Shepherd and they fail to recognize Jesus Christ as the door to salvation. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him” (John 14:6-7NIV).

Not Mine to Keep

Our 16-year-old grandson bought a used car that the previous owner had invested a lot of money in while doing the mechanical upkeep. I’m sure at the time of the maintenance the previous owner gave no thought to keeping the car in good shape for the next owner. Similarly, as we prepare to list our current house with a realtor, it never occurred to me that all these years I’ve been making upgrades for someone else. Paul puts life’s possessions in perspective, “What I mean, brothers, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none; those who mourn, as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep; those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away” (1 Cor 7:29-32 NIV).

God Sees Trouble and Grief

I’m having a hard time grieving for the communities, the victims and the families of the mass shootings because, rather than allowing America to grieve over the tragedy, elected officials and the mainstream media have insisted on politicizing it. I discovered I can take comfort from the psalmist, “Arise, LORD! Lift up your hand, O God. Do not forget the helpless. Why does the wicked man revile God? Why does he say to himself, “He won’t call me to account”? But you, O God, do see trouble and grief; you consider it to take it in hand. The victim commits himself to you; you are the helper of the fatherless. Break the arm of the wicked and evil man; call him to account for his wickedness that would not be found out” (Psalm 10:12-15 NIV).

Sober Judgment

As President Trump made plans to visit communities effected by the recent mass shootings some elected officials from those communities demanding he stay away. While these officials were elected to represent the people in government (local, state and federal), they seem to forget that they do not represent the people in life (emotionally, mentally or spiritually). Leaders in the church can display a similar attitude when they feel they can make all the decisions for their membership. 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” (Ro 12:3 NIV).

Men Will Slay Each Other

America continues to see innocent people gunned down by mass murderers and it’s not unusual for believers to look at such tragedies through the lens of Revelation. Even though we’re not yet to the Seven Seals of Revelation, I find one passage that is remarkable similar to what is happening in America today. John wrote, “When the Lamb opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature say, “Come!” Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make men slay each other. To him was given a large sword” (Rev 6:3-4 NIV).

A Good Read

While hovering over a friend in the ER waiting room I had conversations with others who were coming and going for treatment. One woman, who appeared to be in her 70’s, lamented about her hearing loss and not being able to afford hearing aids. She said, “I don’t know if you read the Bible, but it says to expect problems. I’m a JW [Jehovah’s Witness] and things are going to get bad.” I was struck by the phrase, “I don’t know if you read the Bible…”. The statement did not carry the same sense of judgment that can come when we ask others if they are a Christian, if they are religious, or if they go to church. We promote the Bible as the Word of God, but maybe we should also promote it as one of our favorite books and as a good read. The psalmist wrote, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path” (Psalm 119:105 NIV).

Go Fish

Politicians, newscasters and community activists continue to play social cards — race, victim, entitlement, feminist, sexist, etc. Unfortunately, there are a few people of faith who, rather than bearing up under what they perceive as unjust suffering, want to get in the game and they too play social cards. Peter tells believers to submit to every authority, “For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king. Slaves, submit yourselves to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God” (1 Peter 2:15-19 NIV). When fellow believers play the race card it’s probably time to tell them to Go Fish.

Bully Pulpit

When attendance and membership in a church are on the decline, it is not unusual for the pastor to turn the pulpit into a bully pulpit. Pastors begin to view the membership, not as their flock, but rather as the marketing arm of the church. They unabashedly tell the congregants that it is their job invite people to help fill the empty seats. That message is in error because it is not our job to fill seats in the auditorium for the pastor’s sermon. According to Jesus, the greatest commandment and our primary duty is, “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).

Spoken Through the Son

According to national surveys many people feel they have faith and consider themselves to be spiritual. However, they do not belong to a church, nor do they have any need for Bible study, or fellowship with others of like faith. I’m really not sure how Jesus, the son of God, communicates with these folks. The writer of Hebrews said, “In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs” (Heb 1:1-4 NIV).

Nothing is Hidden From God’s Sight

When I attend meetings as a reporter it is not unusual for boards and committees to be evasive and less than forthcoming with their reports. Most organizations, including the church, do not want their actions exposed, their decisions questioned, or their constituents to hold them accountable. The writer of Hebrews reminds believers, “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 4:12-13 NIV).

Accusation or Observation

People of faith are hesitant to critique church leadership (preachers, elders and deacons) and I suppose the hesitancy comes from Paul’s admonition, “Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses” (1 Tim 5:19 NIV). There is a huge difference between accusation and observation and I can’t help but wish that Paul would have given us a better understanding of what he means by accusation.

Be On Your Guard

This week I attended a board of directors meeting and one agenda item was for the board to appoint a member of the community to a committee. When the chair called for a motion, one board member said, “Does anyone know who she is?” Another said, “I don’t know how crucial it is that we know a lot about the person.” In order to move the motion along, and also cover-up the lack of information on the candidate, the CEO said to the board, “You are also taking the recommendation of the committee.” When the appointment was approved unanimously it became obvious that the board gave little thought to making appointments in their organization. Although Paul was speaking to the Ephesian elders, his caution to believers about the importance of vetting cannot be overlooked. Paul said, “Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard” (Acts 21-28-31a NIV)!

When the Wind is Against Us

There are occasions when, rather than feeling joy, our ministry feels like a burden. It’s as though we are overloaded and the Lord doesn’t see the load we are carrying. When evening came Jesus was alone on land, but his disciples were in a boat in the middle of the lake, “He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down” (Mark 6:48-51a NIV). A perfect time to look for Jesus is when we are straining at the oars and the wind is against us.   

Fan Into Flame

Some people seem naturally more gifted than others, but they too must work to improve their God given gifts and abilities. Unfortunately, few of us display real passion when it comes to maturing and improving spiritual gifts. Paul, in recalling the sincere faith of young Timothy, said, “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self–discipline” (2 Tim 1:6-7 NIV).

Paul’s Charge

My current church, which was planted in 2008, was established with seasoned believers. We began with an average attendance of about 100 and over the years continued to grow both numerically and spiritually. It was pure joy to worship when surrounded by such pillars of faith. However, the last couple of years changes in leadership and pastors caused a decline in attendance and we are once again averaging a little over 100. Even more disheartening is the fact that the spiritual maturity of the church is also declining. Paul said, “In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry” (2 Tim 4:1-5 NIV).

Protecting the Lord’s Table

Many churches, including my own, have fellowship over coffee and doughnuts prior to worship services. In some churches this fellowship time is allowed to extend into the worship service. While the communion meditation is being given, some adults and children are still sipping coffee and hot chocolate, or going back for one more morsel of doughnut. Paul is very protective of the Lord’s Supper. He said, “When you come together, it is not the Lord’s Supper you eat, for as you eat, each of you goes ahead without waiting for anybody else. One remains hungry, another gets drunk. Don’t you have homes to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you for this? Certainly not! For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “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.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord” (1 Cor 11:20-27 NIV).

Outward Appearances

Over the weekend a huge thunderstorm with strong winds, heavy rain and lightning hit our community. After the storm passed, I ventured out to take photos and found about a third of a large cottonwood tree crashed into the entryway of a duplex. Although shaken, no one in the house was injured. The renter, who was surveying the damage, invited me to look into the center of the other two-thirds of the tree that was still standing. The tree, which had a circumference of more than 8 feet, looked normal and healthy on the outside, but it was completely hollow on the inside all the way down to the ground. Jesus warns us about outward appearances. He said, “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness” (Matt 23:27-28 NIV).

Best Seller

I do not yet have data on how book sales are going for The Church Down the Street; however, it’s not lost on me that the Bible did not become a best seller until all the contributing authors had died. The psalmist wrote, “Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the LORD” (Psalm 102:18 NIV).

Where’s the Beef

Because I’ve visited all the churches in my community a few people have ask me for a church recommendation. I no longer make a pitch for my own congregation, but rather ask people what they are looking for in a church. Don’t get me wrong, my denomination is modeled after the New Testament church found in the Book of Acts and, in the past, I would have recommended it without hesitation. However, the congregation is currently receiving spiritual milk, rather than the meat of the Word. 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).

Tested by Praise

My non-fiction book, The Church Down the Street, was recently released on Amazon. In critiquing the book, a former worship leader said, “I imagine that it may have been challenging from time to time experiencing the variety of doctrinal beliefs, subcultural practices, leadership/governance hierarchies, and teaching ability/styles.  I think I might have been afraid of your frank assessment of my own worship leading and teaching styles had I been under the microscope.” I compare my reporting on various churches to dining at a five-star restaurant and going into the kitchen after the meal to talk to the chef. If I told him my meal was lukewarm, under-seasoned and lacked presentation he would be defensive. After all, he went to culinary school, he is credentialed and he is accustomed to praise. Similarly, today’s preachers become defensive to honest critique from laity. Proverbs said, “The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives” (Proverbs 27:21 NIV).

Weakening the Church

Today’s worship service does not resemble that of the early church at Corinth. In describing orderly worship Paul said, “What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. All of these must be done for the strengthening of the church” (1 Cor 14:26 NIV). I’m wondering if today’s church has been weakened due to the fact that, rather than having group participation, we have turned worship over to just the preacher and the praise team.   

Causing the Church to Stumble

In the early church Paul identified eating meat sacrificed to idols as a possible stumbling block to others. However, he then expanded his thought to encompass everything we do. Paul said, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God— even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved” (1 Cor 10:31-33 NIV). We normally think in terms of causing an individual to stumble, but it should give us pause to think that a person, or persons, could cause the church to stumble.  

New Life in Christ

The last few years a number of my family members have passed away. With a couple of them, their relationship with the Lord was not evident; however, in death each one was freed from sin. Unfortunately, some people never understand that they can be freed from sin while they are still living. Paul said, “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— because anyone who has died has been freed from sin” (Ro 6:1-7 NIV).

The Lying Pen

All too often today’s liberal media gives readers spin, misdirection and half-truths.  Believers naively assume such things would not, or could not, happen on the religious landscape and in the church. Jeremiah warns about misinterpreting and manipulating the word of the Lord. He said, “‘How can you say, “We are wise, for we have the law of the LORD,” when actually the lying pen of the scribes has handled it falsely? The wise will be put to shame; they will be dismayed and trapped. Since they have rejected the word of the LORD, what kind of wisdom do they have” (Jeremiah 8:8-9 NIV)?

Anemic

I’ve listened to many sermons that I can only describe as anemic…lacking the power that comes through the blood of Christ. The message, rather than being built on a Scriptural foundation, is developed from man’s thoughts, opinion and experience. However, Paul said, “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ” (Ro 10:17 NIV).

The Unprepared

For the last few years our church leadership and staff have relied mostly on DVDs for the adult Sunday school class. It has come to light, by their own admission, that the rotating teachers sometimes play the videos in class without ever having previewed the video. In other words, the teacher has done nothing to prepare for the class prior to viewing the video in class. Paul said, “The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, “Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain,” and “The worker deserves his wages” (1 Tim 5:18 NIV). Certainly, the paid staff member who has invested time in preparing a lesson deserves his wages; however, the same cannot be said for those who fail to prepare.

Forsaking Wisdom

 Those of us who go to the gym everyday often strike up casual conversations with one another. I ask one gent, who is in his mid-80’s, what he had planned for the 4^th of July. He said, “I just finished building a tree house. It has a mini-bar. From up there I can see all the valley landmarks and watch the fireworks with nothing to obstruct my view.” I couldn’t collect my thoughts enough to ask the size of the tree house, how many people it would accommodate, what type of tree it was built in, or what type of ladder he had for access. All I could do was imagine an 80-plus-year-old climbing down from of a tree house after having a glass of wine. Proverbs said, “Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you” (Proverbs 4:6 NIV).

The Price of Freedom

On the 4^th of July we celebrate American Independence and we are reminded of the price that was paid for our freedom. Likewise, Jesus paid a price for every believer. Paul said, “Each one should remain in the situation which he was in when God called him. Were you a slave when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you—although if you can gain your freedom, do so. For he who was a slave when he was called by the Lord is the Lord’s freedman; similarly, he who was a free man when he was called is Christ’s slave. You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. Brothers, each man, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation God called him to” (1 Cor 7:21 NIV).

Executive Sessions

As a reporter I attended my local electric co-op meeting and found the nine-member board of directors and the staff were less than forthcoming. There was only one item on the executive session agenda, but more than half a dozen times those giving reports said, “I’ll give you details in executive session.” Or, “I’ll save my report for executive session.” It became obvious that the board members were using the executive session as a cover to keep their discussion from public view. Luke wrote, “Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs” (Luke 12:1-3 NIV).

Turn Over the Responsibility

In my church the focus on missions is almost non-existent. Although a few people have approached the leadership hoping to revitalize the mission’s committee, the leaders continue to drag their feet, make excuses and put up road blocks. This seems to be a developing pattern of members not being allowed to serve and it’s my sense that the leaders fear losing control if they let others take the ball and run with it. Today’s church would be much better served if they would go back to the example of the early church. When the Grecian Jews felt their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food they complained to the Apostles, “So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:2-4 NIV).

God Made it Grow

In a couple months we'll be moving into a new house so I’ve started packing things I don’t need right now. I packed the baking dishes, but when I realized I forgot to save out a 13 X 9 pan, I had to go to the Dollar Store and buy a disposable pan. It was only when I had the dish in the oven that I remembered I also packed all the oven mitts. So too, I inadvertently boxed up the Bible I normally use and I’m now forced to use a less familiar version.  I’ve been known to do something similar on the spiritual level. I pack my spiritual bags because I’m ready to move onto the next maturity level and then the Lord stops me in my tracks. On more than one occasion I’ve had to unpack and repack before Holy Spirit decides it’s time for me to move on. Paul said, “Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly—mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere men? For when one says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not mere men? What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow” (1 Cor 3:1-6 NIV).

He Lives Within Us

When Jesus was 12-years-old he accompanied his parents to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. After the Feast Mary and Joseph thought Jesus was in their company when they started home, but Jesus had stayed behind in Jerusalem. Returning to Jerusalem the parents spent three days looking for Jesus before they finally found him in the temple courts sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking questions. Jesus said to his parents, “Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house” (Luke 2:49 NIV)? Today there are those who still look for Jesus in the temple courts — in the church and religious institutions. As followers of Christ it is our responsibility to show those who come to the Lord’s house that Jesus lives in every believer.

When What You Say is True

Some people based their belief in Jesus on the miraculous signs and wonders he performed; and that can even be said of people today. The Apostle John referred to John the Baptist when he recounted, “Then Jesus went back across the Jordan to the place where John had been baptizing in the early days. Here he stayed and many people came to him. They said, “Though John never performed a miraculous sign, all that John said about this man was true.” And in that place many believed in Jesus” (John 10:41-42 NIV). Likewise, today’s preachers do not perform miraculous signs; however, if all that they say in their sermons is true people will believe in Jesus.

On Account of You

We often underestimate the fact that what we endure (hardships, diseases, heartbreak) often draws others to Christ. John said, “Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and putting their faith in him” (John 12:9-11 NIV). Lazarus himself didn’t do a single thing. He simply died and was resurrected. It should give us pause to think that people might come to Jesus, not because of what we’ve done, but on account of what has happened to us in life.

OMG

I find the flippant expression “Oh My God” offensive. However, it is curious that people use the word “my” in the phrase. For example, when a believer says my God is an awesome God, we use it as a term of endearment and as a claim of a personal relationship with God. I wonder if it registers with people who use OMG as an exclamation point that they are referring to God as my God. The psalmist said, “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold” (Psalm 18:2 NIV, emphasis added).

On All Occasions

After getting my first book published last week, I wanted to share the accomplishment with those in my church, so I submitted a Prayer Request and Praise to the church prayer chain. I’m disappointed to say that church leadership chose not disseminate the prayer/praise request to the congregation. No one told me why they would not honor the request, so I’m left to speculate on the rejection and the justification. Paul said, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints” (Eph 6:18 NIV).

Success

I believe my newly released book, The Church Down the Street, will be successful. That being said, I don’t know what success looks like. Looking at success from a spiritual perspective, James said, “My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins” (James 5:19-20 NIV). Saving someone from death is certainly the definition of success.

The Growing Christ

The Holy Spirit revealed to Simeon, a righteous and devout man, that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. When Mary and Joseph brought the eight-day-old Jesus to the temple to be circumcised Simeon took the infant in his arms and said, “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel” (Luke 2:29-32 NIV). Today we don’t look for a child, but rather we look for the adult Lord to return. I have to wonder if we might sometimes overlook the growing and maturing Savior in today’s world.  

The Stones

During the Triumphal Entry the crowd of disciples began to joyfully praise God in loud voices. The Pharisees wanted Jesus to rebuke his disciples and Jesus responded “I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out” (Luke 19:40 NIV). This should be a good reminder to all of us…if the children of God fail to praise Him they can be replaced.

Rejoice With Me

On June 12^th I got a book contract, but the Lord didn’t let me bask in the glory of the contract. A mere 2 ½ days later the publisher whipped out a book cover and released the eBook on Kindle, with the print edition for Amazon to follow this week. With my head spinning I’m reminded of the woman who lost one of 10 silver coins. When she found the coin, she called her friends and neighbors together and said, “Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin” (Luke 15:9 NIV). So dear friends, neighbors and family, “Rejoice with me; I have published my first book.”

 

Political Enemies

My political enemy, a member of my church, sporadically attends worship. Even though the man’s wife is cordial during fellowship time, the man himself deliberately avoids coming into contact with me and refuses to speak, or even make eye contact. I’m not really sure what he hopes to accomplish with his cold shoulder because he, I and the Lord who the only one’s privy to his behavior.  The psalmist said, “Does he who implanted the ear not hear? Does he who formed the eye not see” (Psalm 94:9 NIV)?

Take Up Your Cross

Simon the Cyrene was on his way in from the country when soldiers forced him to carry the cross upon which Jesus would be crucified. Believers today are not forced to carry the Lord’s cross, but Jesus spoke plainly when he said, “Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it” (Matt 10:37-39 NIV).

Connected

At a luncheon I sat with a woman who moved back to town, the town of her youth, a couple years ago. I asked if she was established with a church and she lamented she just couldn’t get re-connected to a church because no one could take the place of a former beloved local pastor, who is now deceased. A little later in the conversation she told me she and her family recently joined the Elks Club and how excited they were to be connected to the community. The writer of Hebrews said, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 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 10:23-25 NIV).  

Serving Milk

 All preachers are not alike and it’s not unusual for congregants to compare and contrast the difference in sermon content, style and delivery of the pastoral staff. I recently overheard an older woman say, “Don’t get me wrong, I like Pastor X as a person, but he talks to us like we’re 10-years-old. But Pastor Y equips us with answers to our questions. When we’re equipped, we can go out and share with others.”  Paul 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).

Don’t Be Afraid

There are times when we, like the disciples, are rowing our earthly boat and straining at the oars because the wind is against us. We may not always see Jesus walking of the water, but we should be able to recognize when the Lord climbs into our boat the wind dies down. Jesus said, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid” (Mark 6:51b NIV).

Best Seller

Today the publishing industry expects authors to promote their own books, consequently when you submit a book proposal to a publisher, they want to know your marketing plan. The book I wrote is about my experience visiting churches and one element of my marketing plan is the book’s appeal to local residents. Because my book has numerous quotes, some people in my community might purchase it for no other reason than to see if they are named and quoted. The Lamb’s Book of Life is not available to us today, but if it were it would no doubt be a best seller. John wrote. “If anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire” (Rev 20:15 NIV).

The Son of God

As Jesus hung on the cross those who passed by hurled insults at him. But it was the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders who mocked him, “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself! He’s the King of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him” (Matt 27:42 NIV). Even today there are those who refuse to believe in Jesus unless he meets their demands.

Entrusted With Wealth

In the Parable of the Bags of Gold a wealthy man entrusted his servants with bags of gold. To one he gave five bags, to another three bags and to another one bag, according to their ability. We normally apply this parable to individuals, but my sense is we can also apply it to the church. God has entrusted churches with wealth, each according to its ability. When the Master returns, will he say to my church, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness” (Matt 25:21 NIV)! Or, will my church be the one who was afraid and hid their gold in the ground where it would not even gain interest.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Last Sunday and elderly widow with dementia appeared flustered when she came in late to church. After she settled into her seating area a husband and wife who had been seated behind her left their seats and went to sit on either side of her. The wife put an arm around the widow and gave her a hug and the husband patted her shoulder. As I waited for the sermon to begin, I couldn’t help but think that the actions of all three of these believers spoke volumes and their actions were a sermon unto themselves. John said, “Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth” (1 John 3:18 NIV).

I Took Your Advice

I go to the gym every morning to walk on the treadmill and occasionally I’ll visit with fellow tread-millers. One woman I talk with is 20 years my junior and we talk on a variety of topics — politics, church, faith, self-reflection. Last week we were discussing relationships and she said, “I took your advice…”.  Proverbs says, “Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice” (Pro 13:10 NIV).

Rejection Slip

The publishing industry has changed dramatically in the last few years and it is very difficult to get your work published. In March I submitted a book proposal to an agent and I just got a letter back that said, “Thank you for sending us your proposal for review. Unfortunately, it has been decided that yours is not what we are looking for at this time.” From the secular perspective I absolutely understand the marketing decision. However, from a Christian perspective it gives me pause. I can’t help but ponder the Gospel writers submitting their book proposals and getting a rejection slip that said, “Unfortunately, it has been decided that yours is not what we are looking for at this time.”

Comparison

I doubt that many of us consciously look at others and compare our righteousness to theirs. However, it gives me pause to hear Jesus say, “For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matt 5:20 NIV).

Going Public

As a reporter I attended a business meeting where the CEO intimated that he would rather some information not be reported to the public. I’m reminded of Jesus healing the leper. “Then Jesus said to him, “See that you don’t tell anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift Moses commanded, as a testimony to them”” (Matt 8:4 NIV).  On the one hand I understand how people going public hindered the Lord’s ministry, but as a reporter I am grateful for the public record of the Lord’s activity on earth.

Building for Someone Else

 As we prepare to sell our current residence Bill said, “I hope the next person who lives here appreciates all the work we’ve put into this house.” I then stopped to think about the new house we are building and realized that it too is not just our house. Someday it will be owned by someone else. The writer of Ecclesiastes said, “I undertook great projects: I built houses for myself and planted vineyards…My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun” (Ecc 2:4, 10b-11 NIV).

A Reason For God

As a reporter I quote individuals and occasionally they will say, “I know that is what I said, but that is not what I meant.” A pastor tried to explain physical affliction and said, “If we had no more suffering and pain, we wouldn’t have a reason for God.” While I understand what the pastor was trying to say, the words he spoke were not what he meant. Our need for God is not based on physical suffering and pain, but rather on love. John said, “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 4:9-10 NIV).

Memorial Day

 The disciples were bewildered and Jesus said, “Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me’? I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy” (John 16:19b-20 NIV). Until our grief turns to joy, we will remember.

Stepping Stone

I was taken aback when the associate pastor, who is relatively new to the congregation, mentioned he just finished his master’s and would someday like to be a professor. I now question if he, as well as the church leadership who hired him, see his position with our church simply as a stepping stone to becoming a college professor, rather than a building block for the local church. Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also…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 6:21,24 NIV).

Mega Church Manna

I just cancelled my subscription to the newspaper because the publisher, rather than staying with local news, has decided to outsource the content and force statewide liberal news onto readers. I see something similar in the church. Rather than presenting the spiritual food and content needed for individual churches, church leadership is giving us programs, sermons and classes intended for a different audience (the mega church audience). Paul said, “For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers, that our forefathers were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. They all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ” (1 Cor 10:1-4 NIV).