Reverence and Awe

In my youth our church held week-long revivals every year. Every night we would have a fill-a-pew competition to see who could bring the most guests to pack the church. I would not classify the sermons as the Hell-Fire sermons of yesteryear, but there was an urgency to the message concerning the return of the Lord. The visiting pastor and the elders made a concerted effort to contact visitors and share the plan of salvation. We always had a number of decisions and baptisms. Revivals are no longer a part of today’s church and the church has lost that particular type of worship. The writer of Hebrews said, “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our “God is a consuming fire” (Heb 12:28-29 NIV).

Player

My middle-aged friend, who is a believer, laments she can’t meet Mr. Right. She has what appears to be an on-and-off-again boyfriend waiting in the wings, and since I’ve heard only her side of the relationship, I’ve given her the benefit of the doubt. However, last week I watched her as she flirted with a new acquaintance who gave her his phone number. Straight out of a junior high playbook she said, “I told him if I breakup with my boyfriend, I’ll give him a call.” Proverbs states, “Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right” (Proverbs 20:11 NIV).

Vultures

Someone tossed a McDonald's sandwich out their car window as they drove by my house. It laid in the gutter for about four days before a murder of crows found it and took turns guarding, snatching and flying away with pieces of the delicacy and now all that remains is the distinctive yellow wrapper. I’m reminded of the signs of the end of the age. Jesus said, “So if anyone tells you, ‘There he is, out in the desert,’ do not go out; or, ‘Here he is, in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it. For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather” (Matt 24:26-28 NIV).

Tolerance

It’s not unusual for a congregation to ask for a change in the pulpit or leadership, but those in positions of authority refuse to make changes for fear it will cause a split in the church. Personally, I find such reasoning to be Biblically unsound. John said, “To the angel of the church in Thyatira write: These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze. I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first. Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols” (Rev 2:18-20 NIV).

No Place to Serve

Service clubs such as the Elks, Masons, Lions and Rotary are on the decline. Their mission statements have not changed, but it appears that changes in leadership may be part of the problem. Unqualified people are maneuvering their way into leadership positions and the membership, rather that following inept leaders, simply stop participating. I see something similar happening in the church as members of the body of Christ are not allowed to function. Today’s church leadership has done away with Sunday school, youth programs, choirs, Bible study and potluck dinners. For example, my church no longer uses qualified teachers to teach from the Bible, but rather relies on videos and televised lectures. The mission of the Lord’s church has not changed, but there simply is no place in today’s church for believers to serve, or be trained for service. Paul said, “Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 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; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully” (Ro 12:4-8 NIV).

Laboring in Vain

The seasons in the life of a believer often bring change in our ministry. Your role as a youth Sunday school teacher may transition to that of an adult Bible study teacher, or your role as an elder may lead you to the mission field. Let me admit that I really don’t like those transitions. Most of us will do whatever the Lord calls us to do, but sometimes there is no clear direction. At those times I bombard the gates of heaven with, “Lord, what do you want me to do? Do you want me to teach, lead, or take a sabbatical?” For instance, as a writer, I don’t want my writing to be in vain. If a devotional book is not what the Lord wants me to write, and if there is no audience for the book, I need to go a different direction. Paul reminds me, “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).

Nothing is Impossible

Attorney General William Barr recently stated that President Trump’s comments and tweets on the Department of Justice criminal cases makes it impossible for him to do his job. I certainly understand where Barr is coming from. However, it occurs to me that President Trump could say something similar…that the Democrats, the House of Representatives and the mainstream media have made it impossible for him to do his job as President. As believers we’ve all experienced situations that in our humanness we classify as impossible, but the angel Gabriel comes to us in Scripture to say, “For nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37 NIV).

Be Courageous

I understand people being disturbed by President Trump’s uncouth attitude and personality.  However, there is something about his ability to speak unvarnished truth that gives me pause. I sense that in some respects Trump has shown Republicans, as well as people of faith, that we can speak the truth as we know it and not fear the consequences. The Lord said to Joshua, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9 NIV).

Now is the Time

After a year of driving on a learner’s permit my grandson just got his driver’s license and he is so excited he can hardly contain himself. We can all remember similar monumental moments in our lives, particularly that life changing moment of our salvation.  Paul wrote, “As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. For he says, “In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.”  I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation” (2 Cor 6:1-2 NIV).

The Golden Rule

I am a rule follower, so naturally I want others to also follow the rules. As a child when I committed to the Golden Rule to memory, I fully expected to be treated the way I treat others. What a disappointment. Even as an adult it can be disheartening because “doing unto others” is no guarantee that others will reciprocate. Jesus did not say we would be rewarded for doing unto others as we would have them do unto us, he simply said, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets” (Matt 7:12 NIV).

Held in Honor

Some people who voted for Trump in 2016 have said they will not vote for him in 2020, not because of his policies, but because of his character. They find him crude, vulgar and undignified. I’m reminded of King David who, as he brought the ark of the Lord into the City of David, danced publicly before the Lord. David went home to bless his household and Michal, daughter of Saul came out to meet him, “How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today, disrobing in the sight of the slave girls of his servants as any vulgar fellow would!” David said to Michal, “It was before the LORD, who chose me rather than your father or anyone from his house when he appointed me ruler over the LORD’s people Israel—I will celebrate before the LORD. I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes. But by these slave girls you spoke of, I will be held in honor” (2 Samuel 6:20b – 22 NIV).

Treasures of the Heart

When the Spirit lives within us we have those “ah-ha” moments where the He gives us a revelation. It’s not unusual then, that we want to share our excitement and we feel that it is our “duty” to enlighten others. However, consider that the Spirit moving in you maybe meant just for you…His message is not necessarily a message that you are to give to others. Mary watched her son Jesus grow and mature, “Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men” (Luke 2:51-52 NIV).

Acquittal

President Trump is basking in his acquittal. As believers we can appreciate his sense of victory. We too will stand before God where Jesus, our advocate, will acquit us from all the accusations of the evil one. John said, “My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for£ the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:1-2 NIV).

The Mind of the Lord

TV commentators routinely ask their guests, “If you could advise the President, what would you tell him?” Unfortunately, teachers and preachers do something similar when they ask their audience to evaluate and question God’s motives and actions. On many occasions I’ve heard my pastor say, “I don’t know why God did XYZ, or chose this person over than person.” Paul said, “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?” For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen” (Ro 11:33-36 NIV).

Orderly Worship

While attending a government meeting the woman sitting directly behind me, who is a friend, allowed her internal dialogue to escape and become an audible running commentary. As a reporter I strained to hear the conversation taking place around the boardroom table and finally turned around in my chair and shushed her. When the meeting was over, I apologized and thankfully she was not offended. She explained she simply could not contain her frustration with the elected official’s discussion. I’ve had similar experiences in a movie theater and in the church worship service. Paul reminds us of why we need orderly worship, “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).

One Body

In a corporate sense, my church offers very few opportunities for outreach, i.e. Bible study, youth groups, missions, Sunday school classes, etc. I spoke to an elder about the lack of outreach and he suggested that I independently start a Bible study in my home. It occurs to me that leadership may not want to expand organized outreach because they want to limit their oversight responsibilities. Certainly, any of us can do ministry on our own without being under the umbrella of the church. However, Paul reminds us we are no longer individuals, but we are a body, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it” (1 Cor 12 :27 NIV).

Off Your Feed

After being sick and housebound for over a week I’ve come to the conclusion that I had flu…in spite of having had a flu shot. When it came to food nothing sounded good, tasted good, or satisfied. I dawned on me the flu has also hurt my spiritual appetite. There was no way could I feed on and mentally digest the Word of God.

If It Is Possible

We all have people in our lives who are difficult and hard to get along with. In our efforts to keep the peace we often bend over backwards to fix things that we can’t fix and that are beyond our control. Paul said, “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” (Ro 12:17-19 NIV). Some things simply do not depend on us.

Contagious

I’ve been housebound for the last few days with a raging sore throat, sinus drainage and congestion. I cancelled my scheduled chiropractor appointment because I didn’t want to take a chance on spreading germs and the receptionist said, “Oh, thank you for thinking about us! I hope you get better soon.” I’m taking over-the-counter medications and eating chicken noodle soup, but if I don’t snap out of this soon, I’m calling the elders! James said, “Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective” (James 5:14-16 NIV).

What is Important

I’m feeling a little under the weather with a cold, cough and flu-like symptoms. I think the Spirit is trying to tell me that my self-imposed daily blog post is not as important as going to bed and getting rest.

We Can All Prophesy in Turn

In today’s church people accept the role of apostle, teacher and preacher, but seldom do we hear of anyone acknowledging themselves as a prophet. I’m not referring to an appointed Prophet with a capital “P”, as with Moses and Elijah, but rather a prophet with a lower-case “p”, as one gifted with more than ordinary spiritual and moral insight. In addressing orderly worship Paul said, “Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said. And if a revelation comes to someone who is sitting down, the first speaker should stop. For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged. The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. For God is not a God of disorder but of peace” (1 Cor 14:24 NIV).

What We Put Up With

Believers applaud one another for walking out on a movie that contains an overabundance of expletives, markets a gay agenda, or has romantic situations that border on pornography. However, I find it curious that we will walk out on a secular situation, but when it comes to the religious landscape, we stay seated through a sermon, Sunday school class, or Bible study that spins the Word of God with false teaching. Paul warns us, “But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough” (2 Cor 11:3-4 NIV).

The Spin

As a reporter I attend a lot of community and government meetings. I’m always amazed when press releases or newspaper articles from other media outlets do not even come close to what I experienced, or what I reported on. Rather than reporting facts, many reporters and PR people want to put their own spin on the situation. As believers we so underestimate the magnitude of the Gospels being in agreement and the Epistles backing up the Gospels.

Staying With the Ship

Even in the midst of a terrible storm those sailing with Paul across the Adriatic Sea felt a measure of security because there were lifeboats attached to the ship. Believers too feel secure because we know that in the storms of life the Lord provides a lifeboat. However, how many of us, in order to be saved, are prepared to cut the lifeboat loose when called upon to do so? Luke wrote, “In an attempt to escape from the ship, the sailors let the lifeboat down into the sea, pretending they were going to lower some anchors from the bow. Then Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, “Unless these men stay with the ship, you cannot be saved.” So the soldiers cut the ropes that held the lifeboat and let it fall away” (Acts 27:30-32 NIV).

Focus on Why You are Sent

Many of us have been taught that evangelism is not merely introducing someone to Jesus, but it is then getting the candidate to the point of accepting Jesus as their Lord and Savior and helping them into the waters of baptism. It’s as though we feel an obligation to facilitate and implement some sort of Christian conversion program. In reality, each of us may play a small part in another’s acceptance of Jesus, but their conversion is not our job. I appreciate Paul’s ability to focus on why he was sent. Paul said, “I am thankful that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius, so no one can say that you were baptized into my name. (Yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas; beyond that, I don’t remember if I baptized anyone else.) For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel—not with words of human wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power” (1 Cor 1:17 NIV).

The House of a Servant

More than a few people have questioned our reasoning for building a new house in an old neighborhood and on a busy street. For starters, we’ve lived in the same neighborhood for 36 years so it is familiar. However, the real reason has to do with ageing and the future. Someday I will no longer be able to drive, but from the location of my house I can walk to grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, the post office, movie theater, the hospital, the doctor’s office, the fire department, library, courthouse, police department and Main Street. And my busy street…it’s a main arterial. When it snows it is one of the first streets in town to be plowed. I’m blessed to live in a house with all the amenities I need close at hand. I can relate to King David’s prayer, “Who am I, O LORD God, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? And as if this were not enough in your sight, O God, you have spoken about the future of the house of your servant. You have looked on me as though I were the most exalted of men, O LORD God” (1 Chron 17:16-17 NIV).

Experience Appearance

In the senior population some of us have fared better than others. Often a hard life — drugs, alcohol, bad relationships, smoking, accidents, hard work and poor decisions take a toll on our bodies and physical appearance. After everything Paul experienced, I’m now trying to imagine his physical appearance, “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, 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. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches” (2 Cor 11:22b-28 NIV).

Resist

I have a hard time understanding why people stay in an abusive relationship, whether it is physically or psychological. Although I’ve heard only one side of the situation, my friend’s boyfriend of a year seems to be mentally abusing her. She breaks up with him one day and the next day calls him up, or goes to see him. It’s as though he is her Kryptonite as well as her Catnip and she can’t stay away from the relationship. It occurs to me many of us have a similar relationship with sin. Like Superman’s Kryptonite, the sin in our life is killing us, but when sin is covered with Catnip, we just can’t resist the euphoria. 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 4:7-10 NIV).

Accusations

Paul makes it clear that church elders deserve respect and those who teach and preach are worth double honor (financial support). However, if you have been a believer for any length of time, you have encountered an elder here and there who proved themselves not to be worthy of respect. Along with how to handle such situations, Paul also has a word of caution, “Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others may take warning” (1 Tim 5:19-20 NIV). No doubt the warning of a public rebuke has stopped many from going to the leadership body, but also the idea of rounding up two or three witnesses to present an accusation smacks of collusion. However, it occurs to me that the witnesses are not required to come as a group to bring an accusation, but it is the accusation itself that has a cumulative value. If three or more people approach church leadership individually the accusation should be entertained.

The Law of Love

Our associate pastor of two-years, who by all appearances is a biblical scholar, is scheduled to preach only one Sunday a month. I requested that he be allowed to preach more often and the Chairman of the Elders responded, “After consideration, we do not feel that a change in the preaching schedule is needed.” I’m really not surprised. It’s not unusual for a senior pastor to want to keep the pulpit all to himself. However, the personal needs of the preacher do not supersede the needs of the body. Paul said, “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 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; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully” (Ro 12:3-8 NIV).

Shepherding the Flock

Our pastor insists he wants to preach, but it is becoming more and more obvious that he is not called to preach. The elders are aware of his deficiencies, but they continue to hold out hope he will improve. Unfortunately, hearing the milk of the Word week after week, coupled the with the Scriptural errors in his sermons and offering his own personal opinion, is affecting the spiritual maturity of the church. I understand the elders wanting to support the pastor, but it should not be at the expense of the congregation. Speaking to elders Paul said,  “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away” (1 Peter 5:2-4 NIV).

Drawing Near

An extended family member, a young man in his mid-40’s, was recently diagnosed with metastasized kidney cancer and he has been given a life expectancy of two-years. Jason laid bare his health situation on Facebook, “Please pray, send positive thoughts or good vibes for my beautiful wife and children, they’re hurting, scared…” There has been a huge response from both the religious and the secular community in Jason’s life. On man commented, “I am praying for you even though this will probably scare the heck out of God. You are a great guy, a hugely successful person and a tough, strong man. Keep on keeping on.” It is amazing how desperate situations draw us closer to God. Paul said, “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news” (Ro 10:14-15 NIV)!

A Slap in the Face

In Iranian media the government of Iran describes their missile attack on military bases in Iraq as, “A slap in the face delivered to America”. At this point in time, because no Americans were killed, President Trump has not retaliated to the attack. It’s not lost on me that, figuratively speaking, America may just be turning the other cheek. Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also” (Matt 5:38-39 NIV).

Healing the Soul

Last week a family member asked me to pray for the friend of her co-worker who was hospitalized with seizures. Of course, I said yes, but I also asked if the patient was a believer. I know the recipient of my prayers doesn’t have to be a believer, but that information helps me pray appropriately. For instance, someone’s spiritual health and relationship to the Lord takes priority over physical health. Jesus said, “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matt 10:28 NIV).

Put Off Your Old Self

Some believers compartmentalize faith by having one set of standards for the church and another for the world. This is especially evident in today’s world of politics. Paul spoke to Republicans and Democrats alike when he said, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Eph 4:29-32 NIV).

Hacker Fear

On a couple of occasions, I’ve received a message from a friend telling me my Facebook account may have been hacked and that I should send a warning message to all my friends. The message gives me pause…if I have been hacked, it could be the hacker sending me the message. It also occurs to me that if I’ve been hacked, it’s already too late to send out a warning. Many of us fear someone with the ability to sabotage our life, but even in this electronic age David’s words remain true, “The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident” (Psalm 27:1-3 NIV).

Every Step I Take

The gym I go to has a north facing front which gets no sunshine in the winter. The last few snow storms, coupled with freezing temperatures, has left a 24-foot ice rink to cross in order to get to the entrance of the gym. I find myself walking like a penguin and praying with every step that I can remain sure-footed and not slip. I’m now trying to picture believers walking through the valley of the shadow of death and I wonder if they too pray with every step they take. The psalmist wrote, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4 NIV).

The Spirit of the World

Pastors try to make their sermons relevant by drawing their thoughts and topics from today’s culture. While I understand what they are trying to accomplish, they often focus our attention on the world, rather than on God. Paul said, “We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words” (1 Cor 2:12-13 NIV).

Hugs

A person of faith posted on Facebook, “I’m going to see who really cares…I need a hug or two! To give me a hug, like and share this post. I know who will hug me and who will not.” For starters I hate emotional blackmail. That aside, I really don’t understand believers who, rather than turning to the Lord, feel they can be comforted through a like or a share on Facebook. The Psalmist said, “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God” (Psalm 42:5-6a NIV).      

2020

We’ve heard 2020 vision is synonymous with perfect vision, but not so. An internet search revealed, “Despite it being a measure of your eyesight, it does not at all mean “perfect vision”. ... You may be able to focus your vision at 20 feet, but may lack the ability to see five feet in front of you.” My prayer for 2020 is not for perfect vision, but that the Lord will open the eyes of the blind.

Do This in Remembrance of Me

For the communion message the speaker said, “We take the elements to remember His sacrifice on the cross.” For believers today the bread, which represents His body, and the wine, which represents His blood, bring us to the foot of the cross where we remember His sacrifice. However, for the disciples participating in the Last Supper, the impending death of Jesus and the cross would not have crossed their mind. I can imagine each of the disciples brought a different remembrance to the Lord’s Table that day. “After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, “Take this and divide it among you. For I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:17-19 NIV).

Warranty

My friend purchased a previously owned Jeep that had been modified to accommodate larger tires. The vehicle was less than two years old, had low miles and the price was right. The Jeep ran great at 65 MPH or under, but anything over 65 and it had no power. After multiple trips for service and replacing various parts one dealership finally diagnosed the problem. The previous owner had not swapped out the gears needed for the bigger tires. In the course of solving the issues the new owner learned the modifications have also negated some of the warranty. I see something similar on the religious landscape. People try to modify Scripture, revise the plan of Salvation and give Jesus a new look, but they fail to consider that their actions may in fact negate the warranty of salvation. In Revelation John cautions us about adding and subtracting to God’s Word, “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book. And if anyone takes words away from this book of prophecy, God will take away from him his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book” (Rev 22:18-19 NIV).

Know the Scripture

My friend attended a Bible study where she was told by the teacher that people who go to hell don’t stay in hell, they just turn to dust and cease to exist. I was able to give her Scripture references to counter the false teaching, but once again I’m remained of the importance of having the Word firmly planted in my mind. The Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, questioned Jesus. He said, “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God” (Matt 22:29 NIV).

The Gift of God

When he heard Philip preach the good news, Simon the Sorcerer believed and was baptized. However, it wasn’t until Peter and John arrived on the scene and laid their hands upon believers that they received the Holy Spirit. Simon proposed buying the same ability to lay on hands. 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 8:20-23 NIV). We may not personally know someone a brazen as Simon, but there are believers who, rather than having their heart right before God, want to market and exploit the church for personal gain.

The Lord’s Favor 2019

The child in the manger came to fulfill Scripture. Jesus said, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” (Luke 4:18-19 NIV).

Not Ashamed

I go to the gym every morning and one of my gym-buddies, an older gentleman, said, “Do you think all of this is doing us any good?” His question gave me pause. At this point in my life, my physical exercise goal is not for improvement, but rather maintenance. I suppose I have a similar thought when it comes to the study of Scripture. My goal has never been to become a theologian, but rather to have an active and working grasp of Word of God. Paul 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).

The Letter

With less than a week before Christmas I had no time to shop for Christmas cards, or colorful holiday stationery. I simply wrote my Christmas letter, photocopied in onto generic white paper, put it in a business security envelope, and stamped it with US Forever flag postage. I trust the recipients will read the letter even though it isn’t decked out with holiday colors, style, or images. My NIV Study Bible, with all its chapters and verses, footnotes, commentary, and references may add color and explanation to the narrative, but I wonder if that might somehow detract from the Epistles. Rather than studying Paul’s letters, it might behoove us to read the letters as he intended…a personal letter. To the Corinthians Paul said, “You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts” (2 Cor 3:2-3 NIV).

More Blessed to Give

As an adult I’ve found myself in a number of long-term care-giving situations and I’ll admit that over the years I’ve thrown a few pity parties. During a recent poor-me situation I was brought up short when the Spirit within me ask if I’d rather be a caregiver, or a care-receiver. In his farewell to the Ephesians Paul said, “ In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’” (Acts 20:35 NIV).

Labor Pains

Even though we moved into our new house in October, we continue to have a punch-list of things that need attention. Most recently we discovered a leak in a shower and the tile must be removed around the drain in order fix the problem. At this point I can only compare building a new house to being pregnant…nine months of anticipation, labor pains and birth. I know that when it is completely finished, I will enjoy the new house; however, getting to the end has been painful. Jesus said, “A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world” (John 16:21 NIV).

Proud Parents

In the movie The Cowboys Mr. Anderson, played by John Wayne, lay dying. His last words to the school boys he hired for the cattle drive, “Everyone wants to see his children better than he was.” I thought of Paul’s words to young Timothy, “I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 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 1:5-7 NIV). I can only imagine the pride felt by grandmother Lois and mother Eunice as they read Paul’s letter.

The Lord Opens Hearts

Many believers in God hear, but yet fail to respond to the Gospel message. 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” (Acts 16:13-14 NIV). It occurs to me that even today, some believers need the Lord to open their hearts.

Bethlehem’s Manger

I was taken aback when the pastor said, “I don’t know why he [God] sent his Son to be born in a manger. I don’t understand that.” The simple answer is, “…because there was no room for them in the inn” (Luke 2:7b NIV). The more in-depth answer is that the situation fulfilled Scripture, as well as the requirement that Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem to be counted for the census. The prophet Micah foretold, “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2 NIV).

Test Everything

 I sometimes get frustrated will all the electronic alerts on my car. For instance, when the weather turns cold the message on the speedometer display cautions me to drive carefully because the roads may be icy. Mind you, there is no rain, snow, or ice on the roads, it’s just a drop in temperature. Recently the car alerted me to low air pressure in a tire. I aired the tire, but a week later the warning came on again, so I took the car in for service where they removed a screw that I’d run over. Had I not heeded the alert I could easily have found myself stranded somewhere with a flat tire. In the spiritual realm we also have warning and alerts. Paul said, “Do not put out the Spirit’s fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil. May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it” (1 Thess 5:19-24 NIV).

Conspiracy

My NIV Study Bible noted that in the Near East the coronation of a new king was often the occasion for the revolt of people and kings who had been subject to the crown. The recently released DOJ’s Inspector General report on the FBI and FISA investigations clearly, and embarrassingly, show the conspiracy against the Trump campaign. For me, this is a modern-day example of nations and people who conspire against the Lord. The psalmist wrote, “Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the LORD and against his Anointed One. “Let us break their chains,” they say, “and throw off their fetters.” The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them” (Psalm 2:1-3 NIV).

The Work of God Displayed

Disciples questioned Jesus about the sin associated with a man who was born blind. Jesus said, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life” (John 9:3 NIV). I always assumed the work of God was displayed at the moment of healing, but I’m now reconsidering that thought. The verse states that God’s work will be displayed in the man’s life, not in his healing. In other words, what the man does with the rest of his life, after he received his sight, will display the work of God.

Only What is Given from Heaven

Webster’s defines career as, “A profession for which one trains and which is undertaken as a permanent calling.” Jesus and John the Baptist had similar career skill-sets — preacher, baptizer, teacher, each was called Rabbi and had disciples.  Some of John’s disciples opined that people were going to Jesus, rather than John, to be baptized. To this John replied, “A man can receive only what is given him from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Christ but am sent ahead of him’ (John 3:27-28 NIV). All too often we feel that our career is by our choice and our design. However, John reminds me that in my calling I am sent and can receive only what is given me from heaven.

See for Yourself

The 2 X 3-foot window above the front door in our new house cracked and the builder ordered a replacement. When the installer got ready to replace the window, he discovered it wasn’t cracked, but there was string of glue running the full height of the window. No one had ever climbed on a ladder to inspect the window, nor had the cleaning company cleaned the window because it was going to be replaced. Everyone, including the builder, just took one another’s word for it that it was broken. I’ve always been curious as to why some of the disciples did not believe what other disciples had to say. For example, the women were not believed when they returned from the empty tomb (Luke 24:9-12) and Thomas would not believe the other disciples when the said they had seen the resurrected Jesus (John 20:24-26). Obviously, there are times when we should see something for ourselves and not rely on the testimony of others.

The Favorite Child

Real or imagined, in most families there is a perception of one child being favored over others. Jesus was God’s only son, so there is no family favoritism, and He was loved beyond measure. It gives me pause to know that Jesus loves me the same way God loves his one and only Son. Jesus said, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love” (John 15:9 NIV).

Going Out to Meet Jesus

John described The Triumphal Entry, “The next day the great crowd that had come for the Feast heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the King of Israel” (John 12:12-13 NIV)! Whether it’s in Bible study, fellowship with other believers, or in prayer, I can encounter Jesus. But I’m trying to imagine picking up a palm branch every morning and going out to meet Him…rather than just running into Him throughout the day.

Camouflage

Most of us, especially during the holidays, have experienced losing our car in a packed parking lot. Yesterday at Walmart I noticed a camouflaged SUV with a woodsy paint job that covered the vehicle from the bumpers to the extra carrier on top. No doubt the outdoors man-owner could easily find the SUV in the city parking lot, but if he were hunting in the woods his vehicle would no doubt blend into the foliage. There are times when believers too put on camouflage in order to blend into the world. “Now Peter was sitting out in the courtyard, and a servant girl came to him. “You also were with Jesus of Galilee,” she said. But he denied it before them all. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said. Then he went out to the gateway, where another girl saw him and said to the people there, “This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth.” He denied it again, with an oath: “I don’t know the man!” After a little while, those standing there went up to Peter and said, “Surely you are one of them, for your accent gives you away.” Then he began to call down curses on himself and he swore to them, “I don’t know the man” (Matthew 26:69-74 NIV)!

The Carpenter

Regardless of one’s profession, career, craft, or trade, it’s natural to compare our work product with that of others in our field. I have to laugh when I think of those in the construction trade (framers, roofers, finish carpenters, etc.) arriving in heaven. On earth Jesus was a carpenter and I can just imagine construction workers scrutinizing the Lord’s carpentry skills. 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).

In the Presence of My Enemies

We had family and friends over for Thanksgiving and one of our guests asked if we could accommodate another elderly gentleman who would be alone on the holiday. Of course, the man was welcome to our home and to share in our table. However, I was taken aback when I learned the name of the additional guest. While I do not know the man socially, when I served on City Council, he was one of my political enemies. I had to laugh at God’s sense of humor. The psalmist wrote, “The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever” (Psalm 23 NIV).

This House is Not My Home

We are in our new house and for Thanksgiving we had 13 people for dinner. This was my first-time baking with a convection oven, setting up tables and chairs in an unfamiliar space, and deciding the best direction to go through the buffet line. Similar to staying in a motel and living out of a suitcase, I can’t automatically do something without stopping to think about what I’m doing, what I need in order to do it and where did I put the things needed to do it with. While I’m enjoying the house, for me it is not yet home. I can relate to the lyrics to the old hymn, “This world is not my home I’m just a passing through…”

Thanksgiving

Jesus instructed the disciples to take away the stone from the tomb of Lazarus. “So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me” (John 11:41-42 NIV). Believers have much to be thankful for, not the least of which is the fact that through Jesus Christ the Father always hears us.

All in the Name of Jesus

As our house was being built, I was taken aback by how often those in the trades (plumbers, framers, electricians, etc.) made excuses for their own short comings by blaming others. The electrician blamed the plumber when his electrical box needed to be relocated. When the carpet wasn’t stretched correctly the carpet layer blamed the electrician for poor lighting. When the texture failed to cover the seams in the sheet-rock the painter was blamed. Some of these workers were believers, yet they too pointed the finger at others to cover up for their own inferior work and mistakes. 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).

I Have Sinned

There are more than a few prodigals in my family tree and in the Parable of the Lost Son I relate better to the older son than I do to the prodigal. I suppose my angst comes from the fact the all the prodigals I’ve ever known want to return to the family unit unchanged, unrepentant and unappreciative. It’s easy to rejoice with the lost son who repented and said, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son” (Luke 15:21 NIV). Many of us fail to understand the value and necessity of repentance. Luke said, “So watch yourselves. “If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, ‘I repent,’ forgive him” (Luke 17:3-4 NIV).

Landscape

We’ve hired a landscaper to put in the yard around our new house and I hope the sod will be installed early this week so that I won’t have to deal with a lot of dirt or mud when we have company for Thanksgiving. My daughter, son-in-law and their dog Charlie will be staying with us and it just occurred to me that there is not a blade of grass, shrub or tree around my house where Charlie can leave his mark. From a dog’s perspective the yard, as it is now, must look like a desolate wilderness. I have to admit there are times when I too look at the spiritual landscape around me and it seems there is no place to leave the mark of a Christian.

Hear, Retain and Produce

In the Parable of the Sower, a farmer went out to sow seed and some seed fell along the path, some fell on rock, some fell among thorns and other seed fell on good soil. Jesus explained the “seed” is the Word of God, leaving some of us to think about being selective with where we sow seed. But the Lord never said to stop scattering seed even if it lands on the path, the rocks and among thorns. Jesus said, “But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop” (Luke 8:15 NIV).

Genealogy

  As I read the genealogy of Jesus, recorded in Matthew and Luke, I wonder what my own genealogy might look like. Gail the daughter of Vivian, the daughter of Belle, the daughter of…

  Thankfully, as a believer in Christ the only genealogy I need to know is, Gail, a sister of Jesus and a daughter of God. Jesus said, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” Pointing to his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother” (Matt 12:48-50 NIV).

Growing Where You are Planted

We hired a landscaper who explained the installation of the sprinkler system, the topsoil he’ll use before putting down sod and how he plants shrubs. We expected him to say the shrubs would be planted in good fertilized soil, but no. He said, “If you put good soil around the plants they might grow faster, but when the roots reach the poor soil they go into shock. Plants establish themselves better when planted in the same dirt they will grow in.” As a mature believer I can look back and see that I grew stronger and more confident in faith simply because I had to grow where God planted me. Paul said, “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building” (1 Cor 3:6-9 NIV).

Witness Intimidation

During the ongoing presidential impeachment hearings Marie Yovanovitch, the US Ukrainian Ambassador who was relieved of her post, said her feelings were hurt and she was intimidated when she was criticized by President Trump. It irritates me when women play the gender card in order to garner sympathy. Seriously, I can’t imagine any man in the same situation saying Trump hurt their feelings. On the religious landscape, believers too are not immune from crying foul by claiming hurt feelings. However, Jesus put things in perspective when he described the age we live in, “But before all this, they will lay hands on you and persecute you. They will deliver you to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. This will result in your being witnesses to them. But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. All men will hate you because of me. But not a hair of your head will perish. By standing firm you will gain life” (Luke 21:12-19 NIV).

Conversion

Some people of faith are cautious and even skeptical that rapper Kanye West has converted to Christianity. Kanye is in good company. Who could have guessed that Johnny Cash and Saul of Tarsus would not only accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, but then accept their mission and calling to bring others to Christ? Paul said, “For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. Whether, then, it was I or they, this is what we preach, and this is what you believed” (1 Cor 15:9-11 NIV).

Emotional Blackmail

I have an adverse reaction to any Facebook post that says, “Can I get a share? I bet no one will share. How many will share this?” In my mind this is no different than a pastor saying, “Can I get an Amen? Let me hear a Praise the Lord. Give me a Hallelujah.” Paul said, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you” (Phil 4:8-9 NIV).  People will put into practice those things they themselves deem praiseworthy and excellent.

Firsthand Account

Many believers today do not look to the Bible for Christian education, but rather they rely on the pastor, Sunday school teacher, or Bible study leader to parcel out the Word to them. Both Luke and John stated their purpose for writing their books. Luke said, “Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. Therefore, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught” (Luke 1:1-4 NIV). John said, “Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:30-31 NIV). The importance of reading the firsthand account of Luke and John for ourselves cannot be understated.

Your Prayer Has Been Heard

Zechariah and Elizabeth, who were both well along in years, had no children because Elizabeth was barren. Zachariah’s division was on duty and he was serving as priest before God when an angel of the Lord appeared to him. “When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John” (Luke 1:12-13 NIV). I constantly bombard God with prayers and in the back of my mind I know He hears those prayers. However, I’m trying to imagine a messenger of God affirming, “…your prayer has been heard.”

Serving the Same God

As a Veteran, I appreciate the honor and recognition of yesterday’s Veterans Day celebrations. While there is healthy competition amongst all the branches of service (go Navy!), each branch of the military has a different strength, and they serve with a different focus and purpose of mission…but they all serve the United States of America. On the religious landscape, I can’t help but wonder if we have forgotten that we do not serve a denomination, but we serve God. Paul said, “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men” (1 Cor 12: 4-6 NIV).

Identifying Gossip

My friend will sometimes reference a situation that took place in the church, Sunday school or the women’s Bible study. However, in retelling the situation she doesn’t want to name-names. I’m not sure why she withholds names, but I suspect she feels if she reveals the person’s name others might consider it gossiping…a fear held by many women. Just as a point of observation, I’ve yet to hear a Christian man worry about being labeled a gossip. Proverbs helps us clarify and identify gossip, “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret” (Proverbs 11:13 NIV). “A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends” (Proverbs 16:28 NIV). “The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man’s inmost parts” (Proverbs 18:8 NIV).

Perfect and Flawless

The Democrats are up-in-arms about a telephone conversation President Trump had with Ukraine. The President insists he has done nothing wrong or illegal, and that the conversation was a “perfect telephone call”. Many politicians and media outlets disagree; however, what they fail to understand is that in the world of Trump it was a perfect conversation. I see a similar situation between the secular and the religious worlds. An atheist rejects God’s ways and his word, but the psalmist said, “As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him” (Psalms 18:30 NIV).

Gatekeeper

My gym attendance is consistent. Seven days a week I arrive at the same time each morning and, unless it is occupied, I always use the same treadmill. The treadmill is situated in a traffic area that leads to the cubicles for backpacks and jackets, so it’s not unusual for me to speak, or to make eye contact with many of the gym members coming and going. A few days ago, a woman in her late 60’s, who is somewhat sporadic in attendance, greeted me. She said, “You make a great gatekeeper!”  In the Old Testament gatekeepers were assigned to their positions of trust by David, “They and their descendants were in charge of guarding the gates of the house of the LORD—the house called the Tent… They would spend the night stationed around the house of God, because they had to guard it; and they had charge of the key for opening it each morning.” (1 Chron 9:23,27 NIV). I enjoy greeting fellow gym members in the mornings, but I certainly I don’t want to be the gatekeeper who is in charge of opening the gym at 4:00 a.m.

Faith Can Be Seen

We don’t have to tell Jesus about ourselves because He already knows each of us intimately…our motives, hearts, thoughts, and our faith. Four men carried their paralytic friend to Jesus to be healed, but the size of the crowd made it impossible for them to reach the Lord. The men then dug a hole through the roof and lowered the mat that the paralyzed man was lying on. “When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven”” (Mark 2:5 NIV). Jesus knows our faith, but He also wants to see that faith in action.

The Promised Land

We received a couple of inches of snow and a few days later I discovered what I can only describe as mini crop-circles in the still-to-be-landscaped backyard. The tracks, approximately 6 feet in diameter, were in a tight circle; too small and wide for a bicycle track, and absent of any footprints. The next day the elementary-age boys across the street appeared at the backdoor with their remote-controlled trucks and ask permission to pile what snow they could find on the three-foot mounds of dirt to make a slide for their snow boards. I can see why the boys are attracted to our desolate dirt lot because their own home is surrounded with a boring driveway, sidewalk, grass and shrubs. I’m reminded of Moses, who prepared the Israelites to enter the promised land, but because he had been disobedient, God would not allow him to enter the with the Israelites. Moses, who desperately wanted to go into the promised land, pleaded with the Lord, but the Lord was angry, “That is enough,” the LORD said. “Do not speak to me anymore about this matter. Go up to the top of Pisgah and look west and north and south and east. Look at the land with your own eyes, since you are not going to cross this Jordan. But commission Joshua, and encourage and strengthen him, for he will lead this people across and will cause them to inherit the land that you will see.” (Deut 3:26b–28 NIV).

Letting Go

I’m struggling to redecorate my new house. The color schemes and furnishing for the old house just don’t go with the new house. While the old art work reflects my tastes of the past, it does not reflect who I am today…yet I love who I once was and I’m having a hard time letting go of that image. Similar to becoming a Christian, there is conflict and struggle with letting go of the old-self. 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)!

Door of Opportunity

Yesterday, at 4:00 p.m. on Halloween, a young man about 13 or 14 years-old knocked on the door and said, “Trick or Treat”. He was alone, not in costume and carried only a backpack. By all appearances he was simply on his way home from school and Halloween became an opportunity to go door-to-door and ask for an after school snack. After handing him some mini candy bars and closing the door I chuckled at his ingenuity. 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).

Past, Present, Future

Many people at the gym have tattoos displayed in a variety of designs, sizes and shapes. Some graphics cover such a large portion of the person’s body that it is hard to discern the message they want to impart. I wonder if the images represent who the person was, who they are today, or who they aspire to become. I’m trying to imagine Paul sporting tattoos from his previous life, when he was known as Saul. Paul said, “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus” (1 Tim 1:13-14 NIV).

Keepsakes

As I unpack boxes from our recent move into a new house, I keep coming across items of family members who lived with us before they passed away – my mom, sister and mother-in-law. When I started organizing the items, I was taken aback to discover that between the three of them, and myself, we had almost 20 jewelry boxes full of treasures and mementos. I suppose I’ve continued to keep the jewelry boxes, with their contents intact, because they have become keepsakes of the one who owned them. Jesus said “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matt 6:19-21 NIV). I wish someone could explain to me why I’m storing up treasures for those who are now deceased.

      

Homeless

In America today there is a lot of attention on the plight of the homeless. It occurs to me that even though a person may not have a physical home on earth, if they claim Jesus as their personal Savior, they are never homeless. 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).

The Lost

Wildfires in California have required thousands to evacuate. In an interview one woman evacuated, but then wanted to run back into the home to retrieve her jewelry box which contained he father’s wedding ring. Through tears she said, “But they wouldn’t let me go back in and everything is now burned up.” I’m reminded of the rich man and Lazarus in the afterlife. While Lazarus was comforted at father Abraham's side, the rich man was tormented. He asked if Lazarus could dip the tip of his finger in water to cool his tongue because he was in agony in the fire; however, a great chasm separated them. The rich man said, “Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father’s house, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment” (Luke 16:27-28 NIV). The woman in California has a shared experience with the rich man, neither can go back to retrieve, nor to save what is lost.

The Assembly of Believers

Mature believers understand the importance of assembling together with fellow believers. However, today’s church places the emphasis of assembly on Sunday morning worship, the preacher and the sermon. In his call for people of faith to persevere, the writer of Hebrews places the emphasis of assembly not on church leaders and structure, but rather on worshipers, “…let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 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 10:22-25 NIV).

Deception

I have a houseplant that looks like a shamrock, but rather than the traditional green, it is a deep purple color and commonly referred to as a black shamrock. In my old house the plant had lots of indirect sunlight, but remained listless and seldom had new spouts coming up. In the new house the plant is on the kitchen counter under small LED strip lights and it is thriving, putting out new shoots every few days. It appears that the plant is being deceived by the fake light. Similar to the plant, believers too can be fooled into accepting a fake light. James said, “Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created” (James 1:16-18 NIV).

Pure Joy

I attended a Bible study where one member announced she would be leaving the church to start attending another church in the community. She gave several reasons for the decision, but became specific when she said, “There is no joy here.” As she elaborated it became clear that she wanted a more charismatic form of worship that included talking in tongues, which she said she was learning to do. Mentally I questioned how one “learns” to talk in tongues, but I set that thought aside and focused on the woman’s claim that there was no joy in our church. It occurs to me that she has misjudged the situation. The joy she is missing is not found in the church, but rather in found within herself. James said, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:2-4 NIV).

Making the Right Connection

When we packed our electronics, we tried to keep all the cords and attachments together, and to some degree we succeeded. However, when everything winds up in one box, you then have to sort out and untangle which cord goes to which device. Even though there is only one power source, if you don’t have the correct cord or attachment, your device is useless. There are some people and religions who try to connect with God using a variety of means. 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 14:6-7 NIV).

Not Against Us

I have liberal friends on Facebook who one minute will re-post deeply spiritual messages proclaiming Jesus Christ and the next minute shoot off fiery darts of the evil one whose target is President Trump…a professed man of faith. The disciples saw a man driving out demons in the Lord’s name, but told him to stop because he was not one of them. Jesus said, “Do not stop him. No one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, for whoever is not against us is for us. I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward” (Mark 9:39-41 NIV). Let me suggest that President Trump is not against Christians, nor has he said anything bad against Christ.

Read the Manual

My new house comes with all new appliances, as well as heating and cooling units, and there is an instruction manual to go with each one. I don’t have time to sit down and read manuals when I can’t even find the toilet paper that I packed somewhere in a box. This experience is reminiscent of getting the Keys to the Kingdom of Heaven when I became a Christian and my youth sponsor gifting me with a Bible as my instruction manual. Paul said, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Tim 2:15 KJV).

Rejoice With Me

My friend has two saucer-size pet turtles that live outside in a sandbox type enclosure. One turtle escaped and became a poster-child for lost pets. Prayers and signs posted on telephone poles finally bore fruit and after two weeks the turtle was reunited to his owner. The turtle had been rescued by neighbors while he attempted to walk across a busy street. Many were praying for the lost turtle and his return ranks right up there with the emotion found in Jesus’ parables of the Lost Sheep, The Lost Coin, and the Lost Son.  Jesus said, “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety–nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety–nine righteous persons who do not need to repent” (Luke 15:4-7 NIV).

All Things

Our old house sold quickly and I can see God’s provision in each step of the process. Even though there were other people involved in the sale, I’ll admit that I felt as though God was watching out for my interests alone. However, at the closing I learned the house was absolutely perfect for the buyer, including having the workshop wired with 220, which the new owner needed for his welding projects. It became clear that all of the maintenance and improvements on our house over the years were not made for us alone, but for the young man who purchased our house. Paul said, “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).

Moving On

After 36 years of living in the same house we are moving into a new house. Our two children were raised in that house, as well as having family members (mother, sister and mother-in-law) live with us when their health declined. After all these years I still get bulk mail, advertising and solicitations for all those who’ve lived with us. Some days my mother-in-law Ruth, who passed away 18 months ago, gets more mail than we get. Interestingly, those letters become somewhat of a memorial of remembrance to those who have passed on.

Object Lesson

Earlier this summer I scurried up the Post Office steps and crammed my foot into the granite riser and broke my big toe. It became swollen, painful and turned eggplant purple. For a couple weeks I favored the toe with a limp, had a hard time with balance and was forced to reduce my walking speed on the treadmill. The injured toe affected my whole body, including my mental attitude. Any injury is a great object lesson to help us grasp our membership in the Body of Christ. Paul said, “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it” (1 Cor 12:26 NIV).

When the Spirit Speaks

During a Bible study the ladies discussed what held them back from witnessing, evangelizing and testifying about the Lord. Generally speaking, they seemed to agree it was their lack of knowledge and the fear that they could not respond if they were asked questions. Many of these ladies have been Christians for decades. My sense is they not only underestimate themselves, but also the Spirit living within them. I’m reminded of Stephen who was known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom and who was one of seven men chosen to oversee the daily distribution of food. “Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people. Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. These men began to argue with Stephen, but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke” (Acts 6:8-10 NIV).

Preaching Ourselves

It is difficult to preach, teach or give a program without, to one degree or another, interjecting ourselves into the presentation. However, there are some who short-change the Gospel of Christ by making themselves the focus of their message. Paul reminds us, “For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ” (2 Cor 4:5-6 NIV).