Young at Heart

Most of us mature as we grow older, with the exception of those who are afflicted with the Peter Pan Syndrome. I think in my younger years I may have felt that the Spirit living within me matured as I matured. It was as though we were a team, learning and becoming wiser together. Has it ever crossed your mind that the Holy Spirit doesn’t age? It makes you wonder how much patience is needed to live in the hearts of believers who don’t want to grow up.

Income Tax

I don’t feel like my New Year really gets underway until after I’ve filed my Income Tax for the previous year. For some reason it’s like a dark ominous cloud hanging over my head until it’s finally in the mail. I wonder if the Israelites felt something similar when they had to go up to Jerusalem every year to offer sacrifices. I suppose they must have felt refreshed, renewed and relieved by having their sins rolled back for another year.

Family Trees

I’m the type of person who likes stability in my life so I have a difficult time understanding the mind set of people who have multiple marriages and divorces. Bill and I hadn’t been married long when I lamented to his Great Uncle about all the broken branches on the family tree. I thought the uncle had been married to the same woman for many years. Come to find out he had divorced the first wife, had a couple of marriages and divorces in between and then remarried the first wife again. My brother-in-law is another example. As he prepared to marry yet again I told my kids half-jokingly, “You don’t have to call her Aunt, because we don’t know how long she’ll be around!” When I go over our family genealogy the stories of the woman at the well (John 4) and the woman married and widowed by seven brothers (Luke 20) don’t seem quite so bizarre after all.

Unbelief

My sister is not a believer, at least not a confessed believer. She has been unable to live on her own for the last year and a half, so she is living with my family. You’ll be pleased to know that I have yet to thump her with my Bible. Although at one time she considered herself agnostic, she does bow with us at meals when we say grace and is privy to our everyday faith-talk. Occasionally she’ll mention having said a prayer about a situation or for an acquaintance. She knows she’s welcome to attend church with us, however the closest she’s come to the front door is to ask how many people we’ve had in worship each week. Christianity doesn’t happen by osmosis, but we do have a way of influencing others. Referring to marriage between a believer and an unbeliever, Paul says that if the unbeliever wants to leave, let him (or her) leave. However, his postscript implies that you don’t ask them to leave, “How do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or, how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?” (I Cor 7:16 NIV) Even though we want to see people saved, there can be some encouragement in just seeing a little Christianity rubbing off on friends and loved ones.

Making Room

All churches everywhere prepare for an influx of attendees on Easter Sunday. Sometimes visitors are from out of town, but all too often they are the once-a-year church goers. We who attend regularly know and accept that we’ll likely have to squeeze together and sometimes even give up our seats in order to make room for the visitors. Last Sunday when I didn’t see one of our faithful older couples I asked their daughter where they were. “Oh, they’re at home…they’re making room for all the heathens.”

Tidying Up

When I get behind on household chores I sometimes hire a woman to come in and help me catch up on the cleaning. Invariably the day she’s scheduled to come, you can find me picking-up, putting-up and getting things out of her way. Now I know for a fact that this is not just a female phenomenon. If some of the guys are invited over to see a project in a man’s shop, you better know that before they arrive he’s going to be doing a little picking-up and putting-up of his own. Believers often use the same thought process when it comes to their spirituality. If we knew when the Lord was returning for us, you’d see a lot of us tidying up our spiritual house.

Ashamed of My Word

According to news reports Pastor Rick Warren (The Purpose Driven Life) has apologized to his homosexual friends for his past comments in support of California’s Proposition 8, the marriage protection amendment. In a transcript from his sermon in early November Warren tells church members, “…if you believe what the Bible says about marriage, you need to support Proposition 8.” Fast forward to Monday night and the Pastor told the audience of Larry King Live that he never once endorsed Proposition 8. Jesus has something to say about those of us who hide behind political correctness, “If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.” Mark 8:38 NIV

Lost Sheep

When traveling to a neighboring town I saw sheep on the high dessert hillside and the herder’s camp trailer off in the distance. A few days later I had to make the same trip, but this time all the sheep and the camp were gone…no doubt looking for greener pastures. A spring blizzard was in the making and there in a gully beside the road stood one lone ewe huddled behind some of chico brush. Her head was bowed low to the ground as she braced against the wind and snow. Certainly she would die if she were left alone. 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?” (Lk 15:4 NIV) All of us at one time were lost sheep, but unlike the absent herder, our Shepherd knew we were lost and came to find us.

Lamb of God

With very few exceptions sheep lay silently and motionless while they are being sheared. Recently an article about sheep shearing was in the local paper and I found one of the accompanying photos to be a profound and powerful image. The photo shows the profile of a sheep with a stoic face and downcast eyes. Patches of blood on the sheep’s neck caused by a nip of the shearer’s clippers are in sharp contrast to the white wool, and coming from the tip of the sheep’s ear are droplets of blood hanging in mid-air. My thoughts went to Jesus on the Mount of Olives, “And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.” The prophet Isaiah says, “He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.” Jesus, the Lamb of God." (Lk 22:44 & Isa 53:7 NIV)

Give Us Today Our Daily Bread

I think it’s safe to say that one thing all believers have in common is giving thanks at mealtime. We ask God to bless the food we are about to consume to the nourishment of our body, but it has never occurred to me to give thanks to the God for not eating the food he provided. “…He who eats meat, eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains, does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God.” (Ro 14:6b NIV) Whether it’s dieting or the observance of Lent, I’m wondering if some of us may have misplaced thankfulness. My pattern has been to thank God for helping me resist certain foods (sacrifice) rather than giving thanks to Him for abstinence.

Relationships

Jesus had to leave in order for the Holy Spirit to come (John 14 & 16). I imagine if the disciples were given a choice, they would have elected to keep Jesus and forgo the Spirit. After all, they knew Jesus and it was with Him that they had built a relationship. Even today I think many of us have a stronger relationship with Jesus than we do with the Spirit. Not that it’s a negative thing, but I wonder if we are underestimating the importance of developing a personal friendship with the Spirit. Jesus is gone and He wasn’t given the prerogative to return, “He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything…” (Acts 3:21a NIV) The Spirit however, is here with us right now. I’m thinking the Lord would be pleased if we were walking side by side with the Spirit just as the early disciples walked side by side with the Jesus.

Fading Radiance

In my experience when service in a particular area comes to an end, or is taken away, it can be a real downer. It’s hard to see a teacher who no longer teaches or a preacher who no longer preaches. For many of us, our service in the Lord is a projection of God’s glory and some day that glory will fade away. I can empathize with Moses, “… who would put a veil over his face to keep the Israelites from gazing at it while the radiance was fading away.” (II Cor 3:13 NIV) Regardless of which side of the veil you find yourself on, it’s painful to see the radiance of our service for Christ fading.

Paradox

When I’ve seen photos of garden tombs that are purported to be (or similar to) where Jesus was buried, my eyes are always drawn to the door jams. About two-thirds of the way up both sides of the entrance, the stone is darkened where visitors have placed their hands as they’ve leaned forward to peer into the empty tomb. It’s interesting that we go to a cemetery because we know our loved ones are there…and yet we go to the garden tomb because we know Jesus isn’t there.

Obedience

After removing Saul God made David king and testified concerning him, “I have found David son of Jesse a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.” (Acts 13:22) Even though he’s described as a man doing everything God wanted him to do, I just can’t picture David as the poster child for obedience. As we strive to obey the Lord I suppose we can take some consolation in David’s example. Even if we were to do everything God wants us to do…there are always going to be some things He wishes we wouldn’t do!

Measurement

In an interview with World magazine Charles Murray, author of Real Education said, “America has an irrational love for the Bachelor of Arts degree…” The gist of the article is that getting a B.A. has become the status standard of measurement for higher education. Murray believes however, that certification in particular fields can actually be more valuable than the coveted B.A. Believers as well can fall victim to credentials and man’s measurement. Gone are the days when we can have a degreeless fisherman or a carpenter preaching in the church. “We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.” (I Cor 10:12 NIV)

Accepting

In I Cor 6:9-11 Paul gives us a laundry list of those who will not inherit the kingdom of heaven. Those included often make excuses for their behavior, but the only one on the list that actively asks for and insists upon acceptance, is that of homosexuality. Really, can you imagine an adulterer, a thief or someone who is greedy asking you to accept their behavior because they were born that way? Paul points out that at one time many of us also belonged in the list of the doomed, “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.” I understand that there are those who’d rather find themselves in hell than to accept salvation. What I don’t get is why they think I would, or should, accept and rejoice with them in their condemnation.

Costly

Our leaders encourage us to give generously of our tithes and offerings, but interestingly the church itself is often stingy when it comes to giving to missions. An old time preacher told me the story of a small church back east that for years faithfully gave 50% of it’s offerings to missions. The time came when a new preacher was hired and under his direction the church grew to the point that they needed to expand their facilities. In order to build the new million dollar building however, the leaders reduced the mission budget. It wasn’t long before attendance dropped to pre-new pastor levels and the large facility became home to a small congregation. According to my preacher friend, “They built their building on the backs of missionaries.”

Voices

When God came to Noah, Abraham and Zachariah they all knew it was the Lord speaking to them. Today having the Holy Spirit dwelling within us we may sometimes wonder, “Is that the Spirit speaking to me?” The other night one television character said to another, “That voice inside your head is not your conscience...it’s your ego.” No doubt the Spirit has some competition when it comes to being heard over all the other voices in our heads.

God-free

The Associated Press reported on a humanist ‘congregation’ in Cambridge, Mass that is “church-like, with its parenting classes, guest speakers and small group meetings to hash out sacred beliefs.” Humanist chaplin Greg Epstein is freely borrowing methodology from evangelical churches in an effort to grow God-free congregations. I really can’t fault the chaplin. His marketing efforts seem no different than mainstream evangelical churches borrowing from the world in order to attract the world. Sadly we too sometimes appear God-free.

Calling on Him

Recently a woman in distress called wanting some information. She needed to know who to talk to about getting herself put on the prayer chain. Even though she’s been out of the church loop lately, she was asking for prayer support from active believers. I’d say she knew exactly Who to turn to.

Reminiscing

As a means of motivation Mrs. Burr told her kindergarten class that they can’t go on to first grade until they can tie their shoes. Using problem solving skills five year-old David suggested wearing shoes with Velcro straps, but Mr. Burr wouldn’t budge. The kids had to be able to tie shoe strings and the end of the school year is rapidly approaching. A couple days ago I answered the phone and heard, “G.G…. This is David. Guess what? I get to go to first grade!” It sort of sends me down memory lane and learning that I get to heaven. Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matt 18:3 NIV

Oral Argument

When lawyers present an oral argument before the Supreme Court, they don’t expect a decision from the Justices right away. The court has no time limit on how long it takes to render it’s opinion, other than the decisions must be made before the summer recess. The Justices’ decisions can take days, weeks or even months. I’d say that sounds remarkably similar to our oral arguments before God.

Living Water

In the late summer of 1915 my great-grandparents homesteaded in southeastern Colorado. They settled on land where the prairie grass was high and water flowed in the creeks. Close to a small cottonwood tree they dug a pit and hit a spring that produced two barrels of water a day. Their dreams of ranching however were shattered once they discovered it was an unusually wet year. The spring consistently produced two barrels of water a day…but not a drop more. Because there lacked a sustainable source of water for a ranch, the homestead was abandoned. The spiritual life needs more than a cupful, bucketful or even a barrelful of living water. Jesus offers “…Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:14b NIV)

Screeching Halt

My thought on the effects of the economic crisis as it relates to churches has been centered on the decline of charitable contributions. Until I read an article about church foreclosures. Its one thing for small community churches to tighten their belt, but it’s quite another thing to sustain sprawling religious campuses. When this crisis hit 18 months ago many churches were in the process of expansion and have huge mortgages. You’ve got to admit that the Lord does have interesting way of putting a cease and desist order on the building of towers and the storing of treasures.

Yielding

A few years back I watched the impeachment hearings held with the House Judiciary Committee and heard some of the following back-and-forth statements and questions: “Will the gentleman yield? No, I will not yield to the gentleman. I thank the gentleman for yielding.” As I listened to the proceedings I thought of the Spirit having a similar dialog within believers. When Jesus calls us He’s asking, “Will the gentleman yield?”

Ponzi Scheme

When I’ve studied Jesus’ warning about storing up our treasures on earth, I’ve always focused in on the phrase “…where moth and rust destroy”. Obviously I can’t take any wealth with me when I die, so who cares if it’s eventually destroyed by moth and rust. Most of us are working on storing our treasures in heaven, but with the Bernard Madoff fraud scandal this verse has taken on an expanded meaning. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.” (Matt 6:19 NIV) I don’t know about you, but I hadn’t given much thought to thieves making-off with earthly wealth before I die.

Fairytale

Once upon a time there was a small country church in Good Hope, Alabama. In seven short years the little church grew and grew and grew until it became a coveted mega-church. Their most recent sermon series is promoted on billboards and reads Great Sex: God’s Way. Jerry Lawson, pastor of Daystar Church, says the purpose of the sermons and the billboards is to get Christian parents talking to their kids about sex before they learn too much immorality from TV or playground buddies. Can’t you just see the Holy Spirit wondering how He’s going to work this theme into ‘Come, now is the time to worship…’

Subscribing

The size of our newspaper keeps shrinking and every time the bill comes I wonder if I really need to keep renewing my subscription. When yesterday’s storm dumped a few inches of snow I found myself digging all around the yard and driveway searching for a paper that, if found, may have very little to offer…other than the obituaries. In hindsight I think I did the same thing in my previous church. For years the Word of God just kept shrinking, while I continued to dig and search. I finally came to the conclusion that for me, they no longer offered enough of the Good News.

It's The Thought That Counts

Sometimes when we run up against a really difficult person who negatively affects our lives we’d like someone or something to just take them out of the equation. Not that we’d wish them ill, but scenarios can run through our head as to the easiest way for God to dispose of the agitator. Most of us are good at justifying our thoughts and even taking them captive, it’s making them obedient to Christ that’s the hard part. “…and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (II Cor 10:5b NIV)

Keep Watch

Arriving late to church one of our ladies sheepishly shook her head as she realized she’d forgotten to set her clock ahead an hour. Watching her slip into a chair triggered my thoughts about the reaction of those who will be late for the Second Coming. Unlike my tardy fellow parishioner, these folks won’t get past the closed door much less find an empty seat. Who knows, maybe Jesus forewarned us about Day Light Savings when He said, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” (Matt 25:13 NIV)

Shovel Ready

One of the key elements in qualifying to some of the stimulus money is to have projects that are ‘shovel ready’ – projects than can begin within 120 to 180 days. This means that all the work such as environmental impacts, feasibility studies and designs have been completed and you’re ready to hit the ground running with your roads and sewer projects. It sort of reminds me of preparing for the old time revivals many churches once held. We’d spend weeks working on our unsaved friends and relatives so we could have them shovel ready for salvation when the preacher came to town.

Mystery Worshippers

I just read an article which said the Wall Street Journal recently reported on churches employing mystery worshippers – a variation of the mystery shopper – who covertly attend church services and evaluate them (clean bathrooms, friendly folks, etc.). I’ll be honest and tell you that my initial reaction was, ‘You’ve got to be kidding!’ However, the writer of Hebrews did cause me a moment of pause, “Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” Heb 13:2 NIV

Dog Fight

We are now hearing what’s in the stimulus package and while it may be good news for some, it’s not for others. Because of the stipulations, the size of my community is either too large or too small to qualify for the coveted funding of shovel-ready projects. Granted, those who do get the funding will be taken off priority lists, giving some of the rest of us a chance to get on a list…but I anticipate it’s going to be a dog fight for any funding scraps we try to get. I can so identify with the Canaanite woman who knelt before Jesus asking for help. In parable form Jesus told her He was sent to the Jews, not to the Canaanites. She responded, “Yes, Lord, but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” Matt 15:27 NIV

Networking

In the church we’re really skilled at studying, worshiping, and fellowshipping – but we’re lacking when it comes to networking. As defined by Webster’s, networking is: the exchange of information…specifically the cultivation of productive relationships… The Bible has its own definition of networking: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” (Pro 27:17 NIV) I think many of today’s leaders today shy away from networking because of its revealing nature. Iron sharpening aluminum just doesn’t work.

Mourning

In the last few weeks two members in my congregation have had a family member pass away. One man lost his adult daughter and another lost his wife of over 60 years. I find it remarkable that even though both of these elderly men are in mourning, the next Sunday following each funeral these men were in church. Their grief did not keep them from joining us in worship…even though the chairs that once held their loved one now sat empty. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matt 5:4 NIV

Recognized

I recently attended an event where my colleagues and I were called forward to accept an award on behalf of our community. It was a surprise, but I think had we known about the presentation, all of us would have done prepared differently. Our thoughts would have been less scattered, our attire more professional and the one missing colleague would probably have made a point to attend. At the house of a Pharisee Jesus told a parable warning us about being presumptuous and taking the best seat at a wedding banquet (Luke 14:7-12). I can just imagine the guy who took the lowest seat and was then honored by being moved up to a seat of importance...he was probably thinking, ‘Man, I knew I should’ve worn one of my better tunics!”

Co-Workers

Whether it’s a committee, a board or a council, each member is nothing more than an individual until they come together as a group. Only then are they are empowered and have authority to make decisions, give direction and set goals. I think there is a similar situation for believers. “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…Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” (I Cor 12:12, 27 NIV) Individually we all have the Spirit living within us, however we need to be reminded that it’s only when we come together that we are transformed into the body of Christ.

Short Changed

As each of us work with our respective ministries we have a tendency to think everyone else has or should have the same vested interest. Normally during the church service there is a time and place for announcements. There are times when the announcements combine a history lesson and current activity update on a particular ministry, when all we really needed to hear was the date and time of the upcoming fundraiser. Over the years I’ve been in worship services where a 30 minute sermon had to be shortened by 15 minutes because the preceding meditations, promotions and updates cut into the preacher’s time. Though I enjoy getting caught up on our weekly activities, I cringe when they take time away from God’s Word being proclaimed.

Speaking Clearly

I recently had a conversation where I was given a scenario about a problem. I understood the scenario, but I couldn’t see a problem or an issue. When I left the conversation the other person was shrugging their shoulders with a frustrated look of, ‘She just doesn’t get it.’ I did get it…about 12 hours later. Rather than speaking plainly, this person used himself as an example of how he thought a situation needed to be addressed. In reality what he was doing was attempting to steer me toward what he thought I should be addressing. I can sympathize with the disciples when Jesus talked to them in parables…and I also share their sense of relief when they could say, “Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech.” John 16:29 NIV

Inadequate

I’m a member of Toastmasters International and one of the things they encourage us to do is take advantage of every opportunity that comes our way. On short-notice I was asked to moderate a legislative panel discussion and while I was saying, “Sure, I’d be happy to do that,” my mind was saying, ‘You don’t have a clue about what it is you’re agreeing to do…’ Whether it has to do with our salvation or an unexpected opportunity, I think it’s safe to say that most of us feel unprepared when God calls us. Paul puts it in perspective for us, “Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world…; God chose the weak things of the world… He chose the lowly things of this world…” I Cor 1:26-27. Oh, now I feel qualified…

Message Received

Whether it’s an email, a voice mail or dialog with your teenager – most of us want some sort of a response that the intended recipient actually got our message. Spiritually speaking, the Spirit within us knows whether or not we got the message, but I think that He too wants to hear us acknowledge that fact. After eating the forbidden fruit in the garden Adam and Eve tried to play a game of Hide-n-go-Seek. God knew exactly where they were (both physically and spiritually), but He asked the rhetorical question, “Where are you?”

Indefensible

The other day I went to a public forum to listen to a newly appointed Senator. The Senator made a few opening remarks, the crowd asked questions and in general the communication was informative and congenial. Later in the day the Senator made stops in a couple of neighboring communities and although I haven’t heard how he handled himself, it was reported that there were elements of disrespect and even hostility coming from those audiences. When we feel attacked the natural response is to defend our positions and ourselves. The chief priest said many things against Jesus and Pilate asked him, “Aren’t you going to answer? See how many things they are accusing you of.” More than a few of us could benefit by following Jesus’ example, “But Jesus still made no reply, and Pilate was amazed.” Mark 15: 4-5 NIV

Wearing the Armor

There’s a young adult man in my neighborhood who sometimes dresses up in costume. In his childlike creativity I’ve encountered him as a park ranger, a US Marine and an NFL football player…and he actually looks pretty convincing, even down to his physical mannerisms. Paul encourages us to do some dressing up of our own. Just think if we actually followed Paul’s instructions and put on the full armor of God – we might look pretty convincing too. (Eph 6:11)

Help

The opening season of the CBS reality show the Amazing Race had contestants going up and down a steep slippery Swiss hillside carrying huge blocks of cheese. The team’s conversation went something like this, “This is the hardest thing I’ve ever done…You can do it just keep moving. No, I can’t do it any more, it’s too hard. You’ll have to carry mine I’m just not strong enough…Don’t quit, we can do this.” It sort of sounds like the conversation we Christians have with the Lord. If I’m honest I have to confess that I don’t always want the Lord to help me carry my load…I rather have Him carry the whole thing.

Above the Storm

Years ago we were returning from home from Denver on a calm winter day. The sky was brilliant blue and not a cloud in sight. As we came out of the mountains the far reaching highway of South Park was overlaid with a blanket of white. For as far as you could see there was a thick fog settling on the valley floor. My mom slowed down going into the fog, but ten seconds into the white mass we discovered we were in a white-out ground blizzard. Around the windows of the passenger side the snow sand-blasted its way into the car. Although we couldn’t see anything out the windshield, if I looked straight down the passenger’s side of the car I could tell my mom where the yellow line was. Amazingly a semi-truck passed us and we were then able to follow him out of the storm. His secret to the navigating the blizzard was that the cab of his truck was right above the snow line. While we were blinded, he had clear vision. When I’m in a life blizzard I need to be reminded that from God’s perspective there is blue sky.

Googling

Some of the keys on my computer are shiny with wear, while others are dull because of lack of use…or no use at all. No doubt all the keys can all do wonderful things, but I have visions of opening Pandora’s Box and releasing a plague that will send my files into computer space. Or I might even become Alice in Computer-land and never find my way back to the desktop. In the same way I avoid exploring the power of my computer and the internet, I think many of us avoid exploring the power of God. I’ve never thought about Googling God…but He does have his own Search Engine. “…The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.” (1 Cor 2:10b NIV)

Thou Shalt Not...

A professional facilitator on assignment in New Mexico found the following ground rules posted in the senior citizen’s center. 1) No alcohol on premises 2) No fighting will be tolerated 3) No abusive language 4) No harassment tolerated 5) No weapons allowed on premises. In good natured humor, seasoned with a hint of disbelief, she questioned the director about what seniors found worth fighting over. “Oh… it happens. They fight over the ladies.” Now wouldn’t you think that as a senior your maturity would override the need for rules? It’s no wonder the ground rules found in Scripture don’t change according to our maturity level…some things never change.

Shipwrecked

Paul was sailing to Italy when he stepped forward to give the crew a warning about the dangers of the voyage. “But the centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship.” (Acts 27:11) I probably would have come to the same conclusion because reason tells me that the pilot and owner of the ship had more sailing expertise than Paul…the resident prisoner, tentmaker and a Pharisee turned disciple. I think we sometimes make the same mistake in the church. If we look only to those in leadership, then we’re overlooking the spiritual insights and wisdom of those in the pew. There are more than a few people sitting in our pews who, after throwing the cargo overboard, are entitled to echo Paul’s words, “Men, you should have taken my advice…”

The King's Invitation

In my political life I get a variety of personal invitations and I try to attend as many events as I can so that I can connect with the community. A while back I received a generic invitation in the mail to attend an open house for a church that had relocated. The invitation appeared to be for the community at large and while I mentally wished them the best in their new digs, I didn’t think about attending. The parable of the Wedding Banquet then comes to mind (Matt 22). I’m not going to make excuses for those who paid no attention to the invitation…they made enough of those for themselves. However, I’ve got to wonder if any of them thought the invitation was generic rather than personal.

Diana

A member of our church family just passed away after what appeared to be a short illness of only one month. The reality is that 59 year-old Diana hadn’t focused on her health for a couple of years, “It’s my own fault for not going in for check-ups.” Although Diana had dismissed her physical health, she was spiritually healthy. After years of faithfully serving in the church, I suppose she might fall into the Dorcas category (Acts 9:36). I find the story of Dorcas interesting. She was dearly loved by those in her church community, died unexpectedly and then Peter prayed over her bringing her back to life. I always wondered if Dorcas would have preferred staying with the Lord rather than returning to a life of service and love. It seems to me that our friend Diana has earned a well deserved rest from her labor.

Code of Silence

There is a program being implemented in some schools called Safe2Tell. The program is an avenue for students and parents to give information to school faculty and law enforcement anonymously. It is reported that in crisis situations, 81% of the time (suicide, drugs, fights, threats to students) someone knew about it, but didn’t tell. The Safe2Tell staff knows that by breaking the code of silence they can save lives. They hope to get across to youth that it’s not a betrayal to inform on their friends…but failing to get help for their friend, is betrayal. I think we could use a Safe2Tell program in the church. Sin amongst believers can at times be blatant and yet we don’t get help for our friends. “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 NIV

You've Got the Power

Jesus remained silent during his interrogation until Pilate boasted that he had the power either to free or to crucify. Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above.” (John 19:11a NIV) Verse twelve continues, “From then on, Pilate tried to set Jesus free…” Well now, I guess Pilate didn’t have quite as much power as he thought he did. Going through today’s troubled times leaders, in both the world and the church, would do well to remember Who gives them their power and authority.

Potshot

Webster’s defines a potshot as: a shot taken from ambush or at a random or easy target. A critical remark made in a random or sporadic manner. Some of us have been on the receiving end of religious potshots. Of course we know Jesus says, ‘Turn the other cheek’, and to the Lord’s credit many of us are really good cheek turners. Nothing against the cheek turning, but I think we could sometimes avoid being hit by potshots if we weren’t such easy targets. I’ve found that the more faithful I am in Bible study, the less vulnerable I am…or maybe I just enjoy watching the return fire of Biblical ammunition hit its mark.

Smiley Face

It always lifts my spirit when Jesus is proclaimed outside of the church. Whether it’s a football player pointing heavenward after he’s made a touchdown or a news commentator interjecting a New Testament teaching, it brings an amen to my mind and a smile on lips when Jesus is mentioned. Come to think of it, I suppose Jesus is smiling too every time He has an opportunity to get out of the church building.

Standing Room Only

Many churches today are removing pews and replacing them with movable seating that can be re-arranged, stacked or stored. Certainly there is a convenience factor in chairs, but I have to tell you that I miss the physical and psychological comfort of pews. Stout and securely attached to the floor, pews offer a measure of support for both young and old alike. People can spread out or cozy-up, but I don’t think they can ever fill up a pew…there’s always room to squeeze in at least one more person. With chairs, when they’re full, they’re full. Really, when was the last time you invited someone to share your chair?

Economic Crisis

The other day I heard a man of faith, who as an investment advisor was being interviewed on Fox News. A question posed to him by a fellow believer asked his thoughts on church contributions in this time of economic crisis. In response he said his understanding from Scripture was that 10% was one’s tithe, but beyond the tithe a person was to give out of their abundance. Paraphrasing he said, ‘If there is no abundance or excess, you’re not expected to give above the tithe.’ For years ministers have petition the congregation for love offerings beyond their tithe…I’m thinking they may have to revise their script.

Sweetness

Times were difficult during the Great Depression and my grandma told me her family always had two pots of pinto beans on the stove, one that was cooking and the other that was ready to eat. Grandma’s brother Hugh would eat a plate of beans for dinner then he’d smash up some more beans and pour sorghum on them for dessert. There are some portions of Scripture which are so overused in sermons that they start resembling those pots of beans. Blessed is the preacher, teacher or fellow believer who can add a touch of sweetness to the familiar.

It All Depends...

Those who’ve been fighting for the right to life must be discouraged by Obama’s reversal of the Bush policies on stem cell research and abortion-funds. Even though this seems to be a setback, we need to remember that their labor of love has had victories. In situations like this, rather than wringing our hands in despair, we can find comfort in Paul’s thoughts, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Ro 12:18 NIV) The phrase I find most meaningful is, ‘as far as it depends on you’. When something depends on me and I have done all that I can do, there is a sense of release and relief…and I can live in peace.

Saving Face

Former pastor Ted Haggard’s sexual escapades are once again front page news. If I’m reading the story correctly, the new allegations were known to church leaders in 2006 and a legal settlement was reached with Haggard’s ‘friend’ in 2007. Last Sunday the current pastor of New Life Church Brady Boyd told his congregation, “I’m sorry that this wound has been reopened for many of you.” Excuse me. This would not be a ‘new’ allegation or a reopening of wounds if the church leaders had made full disclosure from the very beginning. Somewhere along the line these leaders must have determined that the congregation was too fragile to hear the whole truth. In the process of trying to save face and hide sin, they have certainly underestimated the Spirit’s ability to clean, heal and restore.

Lengthy Prayers

During the festivities of the inauguration many public prayers were offered up for President Obama and for the country. Some of these speakers brought to mind a warning from Jesus, “Watch out for the teachers of the law… for a show [they] make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely.” (Mark 12:38-40b NIV) Now I really did try to be objective, but when someone is praying aloud and the crowd starts applauding rather than saying ‘amen’, you’ve just got question whether the intended audience is God or man.

Rolled Away

After the crucifixion the two Marys and Salome bought spices to anoint Jesus’ body. I find it so strange that on their way to the tomb they were asking one another, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” You’d think if they planned ahead enough to purchase the spices, they’d also have thought to ask a few strong disciples to meet them at the tomb. This is probably a good faith lesson for those of us who want to know that the door is going to be open before we start walking. Mark 16:3

A Time to Play

I was looking forward to babysitting my three year-old granddaughter, but when she came to the house she wasn’t feeling well because of a cold. So for two hours Lydia sat around uninterested and unresponsive to any of my suggestions, other than watching cartoons. When her mom came to pick her up I hugged her good-bye and told her the next time she came over she would feel better and we could play. The tears started flowing and puckering up she said, “Oh no Momma. I don’t want to go…I forgot to play!” There are some of us who at times are overly serious about Christianity. When I die I’ll probably find myself standing before the Lord saying, ‘Oh no, I forgot to play!’

Mixed Blessings

Last weekend I attended a 25th wedding anniversary where the large group of attendees were all believers. The honoree stated, “…all my friends are Christians. I don’t have any friends who aren’t believers.” After that celebration I went down the street and attended my uncle’s 90th birthday party where we visited in and around a live band playing honky tonk music. In church speak you could call it a blended celebration. There were believers, nominal believers and those with no belief at all. There’s a certain comfort in being surrounded by those of like precious faith, but add a little secular to the mix and you have some stimulating witnessing opportunities. I can see why Jesus accepted invitations to all kinds of fellowship configurations.

Inauguration Day

“Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God…For he is God’s servant to do you good... He is God’s servant…Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.” Romans 13:1, 4-5 NIV

Sweet Deal

I recently had a role in offering an organization a deal they just couldn’t refuse. The problem is it’s such a good deal that they can’t refuse it. In a sense they were safe until a good offer was on the table. Now they’re scrambling to come up with a logical and politically acceptable reason to turn down the offer. God offered mankind a deal in Jesus Christ that we just couldn’t refuse…yet every day people come up with logical and politically acceptable reasons for turning Him down.

Parts is Parts

I just read a thought provoking illustration: “One’s watch works only when all the parts designed in it are left inside the watch. We have no problem using Ford parts in a Ford and Chevrolet parts in a Chevy….” I think today’s church is often guilty of tinkering with the parts. We ignore Scripture that makes us uncomfortable, we tolerate teachings from other religions and we try to make the Word of God politically correct….to name a few. Just like a watch, without all the parts it’s no wonder we can’t always keep time.

Bliss

Sometimes what the Lord says cuts straight to the heart, “When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus’ parables, they knew he was talking about them.” (Matt 21:45) And then other times we just don’t know what to do with what we hear, “Lord, are you telling this parable to us, or to everyone?” (Luke 12:41) Conviction is painful…and ignorance is bliss.

Unclean

Even though people are divided by religious beliefs they can be unified by life’s circumstances. When ten lepers cried out to Jesus to have pity on them, he told them to go and show themselves to the priest. One of the ten was doubly unclean, because not only did he have leprosy, he was also a Samaritan. You’ve got to love it that this guy didn’t let his nationality keep him from the opportunity to be healed. All ten lepers were cleansed while on their way to see the priest, but it was only the Samaritan who returned to thank Jesus. Sending the Samaritan on his way Jesus said, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” It’s a good thing this Samaritan didn’t have to catch up with the other nine. I doubt if any ‘self-respecting’ priest would have come near him with or without the leprosy. (Luke 17:11-19)

Sorry

It seems to me that asking forgiveness, when practiced, is mainly done amongst fellow believers. When we sin against unbelievers or strangers, our tendency is simply to just apologize. In Scripture we don’t hear Jesus saying, ‘And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, apologize to him, so that your Father in heaven may accept your apology for your sins.’ Or, ‘This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you apologize to your brother from your heart.’ Other than God, when was the last time you asked someone to forgive you?

Please God

As believers it’s not unusual for us to hear one another petition God for help. However, a couple of times I’ve witnessed situations where persons with no religious persuasion have cried out, “God help me. God save me. Please God, Oh God…, Oh God…” It appeared that their call to God was for relief from pain and/or duress, rather than as a matter of faith. The writer of Hebrews says, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” (Heb 11:6 NIV)

Revealed

It’s interesting to see what God reveals, to whom He reveals it and when He chooses to reveal it. When I read where Peter publically declared that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God I wanted to say ‘Well duh Peter…What took you so long.’ Jesus however replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven.” (Matt 16:17 NIV) When the time was right, it was the Father who revealed Christ to the disciples. Maybe that is what’s wrong with some of our evangelistic methods…we keep trying to pry open the eyes of the blind.

Come See...

For many of us another person’s recommendation is a huge selling point. If someone tells us they’ve read a good book, eaten at a fabulous restaurant, or have seen a great movie, we may consider their endorsement as good enough for us to give it a try. Occasionally such a stamp of approval works with Christianity. The Samaritan woman at the well gave Jesus a five star rating by simply saying, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” I don’t know about you, but I can’t even get some of my immediate family members to give the Lord an audience, much less a whole community. (John 4:29)

Dark Horse

It’s interesting watching those who are jockeying for political appointments. The media gives us a list of favorite front runners and then from out of nowhere a dark horse crosses the finish line. You’ve got to love those surprise endings…unless of course you are the one left in the dust. Often those who are rejected want to blame someone or something for their defeat. I’ve noticed it’s a little hard for believers to play the blame game when they know that it’s God who, “…sets up kings and deposes them.” Daniel 2:21

Willing and Weak

My Grandma had a servant’s heart and was always volunteering for things…even beyond the point where she could meet the obligation. She would sign up to make cookies for VBS, but then she couldn’t drive to the store to get the ingredients, nor could she make the delivery once they were baked. Even in her 80’s Grandma once told a friend that she was going to make him a country western shirt. The project however fell to her daughter Carol, who wound up buying the material, cutting out the pattern, sewing it up, putting on the snaps…and even delivering the shirt. I don’t think Grandma ever considered that, “…The spirit is willing, but the body is weak,” might somehow apply to her. (Matt 26:41b NIV)

Recall

There are a lot of things I still need to understand about computers, but one thing on my to-do list is to learn how to use a recall function for an email message. I know there is such a thing because the other day I started to open an email and it disappeared right before my eyes leaving a notice in its place, “This email has been recalled.” What a great feature. Of course the key is to recall the message before the receiving party has a chance to open it. There are times that I’d like to have a recall button for something I’ve said. But alas, when I can’t get those words back, the next best thing is to use the Scripture’s ‘please forgive me’ button.

Just Passing By

Sometimes we believers get a little cocky because our salvation is secure and we know for a fact that Jesus will never leave us or forsake us. But picture this; the disciples are in a boat on the lake and straining at the ores because the wind is against them. Jesus, walking on the lake, “…was about to pass by them…” It appears that Jesus might not have stopped if the disciples hadn’t cried out to Him. I wonder how many times I’ve been in dire straights and, because I failed to call out to Him, Jesus just kept on walking. (Mark 6:48)

In the Days of 2009

In the days of Noah …people were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage. In the days of Lot …people were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. In the days of Believers…“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know what day your Lord will come.” Matt 24:42 NIV

Mothers and Daughters

A few years ago my daughter gave me a coffee mug for my birthday. The mug depicted a caricature of a woman devoid of facial expression with the caption, “IT’S OFFICIAL…I’ve become my mother.” I wasn’t laughing. I’ve worked hard trying not to be like my mother. It’s not that my mom isn’t a good person, she just has a few personality traits that I don’t want to emulate. I have to admit that I’ve never used the mug…probably because it reminds that in some ways I am in fact like my mother. It wasn’t until recently that I learned the sentiment on the cup was meant as a compliment. Leslie was implying she has become like me. In the spiritual realm we too take on the characteristics of our parent. Actually, there is no greater compliment than to say, It’s Official…I’ve become like Him.

Really in Need

This time of year many communities come together and share with those who are needy. However I think it’s sometimes difficult to identify those who are really in need. Paul says, “The widow who is really in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help.” (1 Tim 5:5 NIV) I’ve known folks who put their hope in relatives, in the government and in friends, but I don’t think I’ve ever met someone who prays night and day asking God for help. I’m sure it’s not PC to ask someone about their prayer life, but it could be a nice litmus test to identify those who are really in need.

Something to Say

I sometimes struggle with writing a daily blog and have to remind myself, as they say in baseball, ‘you can’t hit a home run every time’. There are days however when my mind goes blank and I feel there is nothing to write about. I chide myself, ‘What…you mean you can’t see God anywhere today? God is Omni-Everything and you don’t have anything to say about Him?’ The psalmist never seems at a loss for words. No doubt the sight of my blank page is enough to make him hyperventilate.

You Better Not Pout...

I wanted to get our three year-old granddaughter a pair of boots for Christmas, but getting the right size and also having it be a surprise was impossible. The first pair I purchased was too large and when Lydia was told she couldn’t keep them, she pouted. The second pair fit, but once again she couldn’t keep them because I needed to put them under the tree for her Christmas present. More distraught than ever she added tears to her pouting. Finally on Christmas Eve Lydia opened her gift and pulling the boots from the package said, “Look…I’ve got my boots. They’re mine. I’ve got my new boots.” Even on an adult level I can relate to Lydia’s disappointment and her joy. I’ve known God to give me a glimpse of a perfect gift, only to have Him deny me the gift because it’s not the right time, the right size...or He has something better in mind. It’s hard not to pout…

Be Still

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46:10 NIV) MERRY CHRISTMAS

Sing-a-Long

Last week our choir sang ‘Lion of Judah’ for special music. I don’t recall ever hearing the song before, but it is beautiful. Apparently the words and melody settled comfortably in my mind because when I woke up at 2:00 am this morning I was singing with the choir and could not get the song out of my mind. I can just imagine how maddening the Christmas season is for Satan. Songs of praise ringing out from every corner of the world may just be stuck in his head. Do you suppose he and his minions are loosing sleep by being reminded of their failure to kill the Holy One of God?

I know What You Need

I helped my grandkids compile their Christmas gift list for family members before we went shopping at the Dollar Store. On the first outing I took three year-old Lydia and it didn’t take her long to get into the groove of being in total control. While she picked out taffy, hot sauce, rock salt and a jump rope, I put a post-it note on each item naming the intended recipient. When a rack of pet pooper-scoopers caught Lydia’s eye, she was insistent that Mama needed one for cleaning. I explained that these were for cleaning up after pets and that she did not have one. She stated, “I have a puppy (stuffed) and David has a kitty (also stuffed).” Undeterred she continued, “…and, I think Daddy needs one too.” In compromise I finally convinced her that if she purchased only one, maybe Mama and Daddy could share. Haven’t we all, at some time or another, received a gift we know we don’t need? Someone thinks they know how to help us utilize that gift, so they assign us to a ministry or volunteer us for a project. Our reaction can be a real test of believer maturity.

Swayed

When I was employed as a bailiff I enjoyed listening to lawyer’s arguments. It was a challenge to weigh the evidence to see how my internal verdict compared to that of the jury. Some attorneys were more polished than others in their delivery, cross examinations and performance in the courtroom. Likewise, some witnesses had better credentials or were more believable than others. I think we encounter similar circumstances as believers. It’s our responsibility to be alert and keep the Word from getting lost in the presentation and delivery of the sermon.

Changes

We usually take the phrase ‘you haven’t changed one bit’ as a compliment. Perhaps we have some outward characteristics which stay consistent, but generally speaking if we haven’t changed over the years, we’ve got a serious problem. Really, can you imagine being the same person you were 10, 20 or 30 years ago. Or worse yet, being the same person you were when you first became a believer. Just as we enjoy watching young people grow to adulthood, we also take pleasure watching one another grow spiritually. I dare say we’re all more comfortable being the watcher than being the watched.

Strength for Service

I once had a minister who wrote of the church, “Our resources, specifically human resources, are limited. By limited, I don’t mean that there are so few attending, rather there are so few people available to serve.” Taken literally, I think his comments paint a picture of an elderly congregation whose strength for service was limited. I have to laugh because at the time of his critique we had a thriving congregation averaging over 600 in weekly attendance. The reality was that there were few people available to serve in the manner that he wanted them to serve. Obviously not every believer has a servant spirit, but “…If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 4:11b NIV

Friends

I know a lady who I count as a friend, in spite of fact that she thinks I’m going to hell. Now she has never come right out and said I’m going to hell, but she has hinted her doubts about my salvation. One time I spoke of the collective ‘we’ being secure in our knowledge of our salvation and unable to look me in the eye she stammered, “Well…, well… I don’t know. I just couldn’t say.” Bless her heart, she just couldn’t state with any certainty that those outside her denomination have a place in heaven. It’s no wonder Jesus said, “In my Father’s house are many rooms…” He’s probably going to have to send some of us to our rooms until we learn how to play together. (John 14:2a NIV)

Extracurricular

I once had a minister who sprinkled his messages with data and survey stats. He purported himself to be a visionary who was up to speed on issues relevant to today’s culture. Doubting some of his statistics, I tracked down the source material and learned that the data he presented under the umbrella of ‘Christian’ was not mainstream Christianity, but rather taken from a collection of all the world’s religions. Now, I don’t believe he deliberately set out to mislead his audience, but I do think he failed to check the accuracy of his facts because he needed them to support his current vision. I’m envious of the Bereans. When they heard Paul preach all they had to do was examine, “…the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” Acts 17:11b NIV

Eye to Eye

After I caught up on the family news with my spunky Great Aunt, we then talked a little politics. Jesting she said, “I have so much [political] wisdom that people could benefit from, but when you’re already seeing eye to eye with those around you, what’s the point of discussion if everyone’s in agreement.” I know what she means. Believers often find themselves in much the same dilemma when they’re with one another. Salvation is just not one of the topics of discussion when everyone’s in one accord.

Censored

I don’t understand the criteria used by the media for censoring. In one photo or video clip a face might be blurred-out while body parts are exposed, and then in another clip it’s just the opposite, the sensual parts are blackened-out and the face is exposed. I suppose it depends on who the media is trying to protect - the person in the photograph, the viewing public or themselves. Amazingly believers sometimes take it upon themselves to blur the Word of God. The writer John penned a warning to deal with any would-be censors of Revelation. “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 22:19 NIV)

I Think...

Recently my husband told our three year-old granddaughter, “I think you need to given me a hug.” Quietly and thoughtfully Lydia said, “No, I don’t think we need to do that.” Obviously Bill’s mistake was in giving her an option to think about it. Have you ever noticed that there is nowhere in Scripture (to my recollection) where God asks us what we think? Occasionally Jesus asked the disciples what they were thinking, not because He wanted their opinion, but to expose the thoughts running around in their heads. I’m wondering how our conversation would change if we were to replace the phrase ‘I think’ with ‘God thinks…’

He's Already Left the Building

I hate it when I’ve finished a conversation and walk out of the room, only to hear the other person start talking again. I then have to turn around, go back and ask them to repeat what they said. It’s irritating. Part of me is beginning to say, ‘Just keep on walking’, while another part suggests, ‘That would be rude’. I’ve tried to figure out what’s wrong. Do I have so many things on my mind that I’m moving too fast to get on to the next item, or is the other person just unaware that I’ve left the room? On a Spiritual level, I suppose it’s possible to do the same thing to the Spirit. With all the busyness of life going on, I may very well be leaving the building before He’s done talking to me.

Anticipation

In the city Holiday Parade of Lights last weekend our church had its début float. One of our members, who just turned 91, was determined to watch the parade and see our entry. Settling in to watch the festivities Sylvia misjudged the curb on the street and fell, breaking her hip. Family members helped seat her into her walker, but she wouldn’t let them call the ambulance. Sylvia had come to see the parade and she was going to see it, besides, “…if I don’t move, it doesn’t hurt.” An hour and forty-five minutes later the parade was over and Sylvia was ready to call the EMT’s. With such determination I’m reminded of both Simeon and Anna who, despite their age, waited and served in the temple at Jerusalem in anticipation of “the Lord’s Christ”. (Luke 2:25-40)

Just the Right Size

Our newly forming church has been meeting for almost seven months and the selection of elders and deacons should be completed in the next couple of weeks. Even though we’ve all been praying about the need for a building, it’s startling to see God answering prayers without our help. Yesterday we learned that one person has gifted the church with almost three acres of land and another family has stepped forward to be our ‘banker’…oh yes, and that family just happens to have an architect in the family who will draw up the building plans. After the announcement I and a few others wondered aloud if three acres would be enough. How absurd…if we needed more acreage the Lord would have provided us with a larger parcel of land. Obviously, I’ve since repented and asked for forgiveness.

Fading Glory

With all the moisture in the air we are seeing some terrific sunrises and sunsets. Clouds of orange and mauve ripple like waves across an ocean of blue. Unlike fall leaves changing color, the moving sun allows only moments to appreciate the brilliance of the clouds before they abruptly turn grey. I think I can understand why Moses put a veil over his face (2 Cor 3:13; Ex 34:34) both for the people...and possibly for himself. It’s a real let-down to watch God’s radiance go so quickly from glorious to ordinary.

Ascending and Descending

Over the Thanksgiving holidays our local hot air balloonists were offering free rides to veterans, but the weather was not cooperating. For three mornings in a row the pilots and crew stood around visiting and drinking coffee while trying to decide whether or not they could fly. Rather than stick a wet finger in the air to see which way the wind was blowing, one morning they sent up a PIBAL, a small black pilot balloon. All eyes were on the PIBAL and the higher it climbed, the further everyone’s heads tilted backwards. It reminded me of Jesus being taken up into heaven right before the eyes of the disciples. They looked intently as He was going until a cloud his Him from their sight. Two men dressed in white suddenly appeared. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:11 NIV)

Pucker

When my husband wants to get everyone’s attention at a large gathering he produces a shrill whistle by positioning his tongue against the back of his teeth and tightening his lips. Hearing that same whistle coming from the garage I charged through the door to discover Bill standing on a half twisted ladder. With one hand he held tight to an overhanging brace and with the other he held a long handled paint roller. And there, teetering precariously on the top of the ladder was a tray full of paint. I have to tell you it was funny. Paul describes the church as being one body, but having many different parts. “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!’” (1Cor 12:21 NIV) In Bill’s case, neither can the hand or the foot say to the part that whistles, ‘I don’t need you!’

Co-Workers

Laura, a Sunday School teacher for mentally challenged adults was telling me about her class. “We screen what we say and how we say it, but the folks in my class just blurt out whatever is on their mind. They say exactly what they’re thinking.” She went on to tell me about Emily, a 52 year-old member of the class. One Sunday Emily prayed, “Lord, work with me on this! Let’s work together and get this done!” Normally I think about working for the Lord, or Him working through me. I appreciate Emily’s insight. It never occurred to me to work shoulder to shoulder with Him.

People of Faith

At some time or another I think we’ve all struggled in interacting with folks from different religious backgrounds with whom we are polarized opposites. My fear is, if a group falls in the cult category, does having fellowship with them encourage them to think I’m accepting of their beliefs? Last week I participated in a community Thanksgiving service where those in the program came from all different denominations. We had everything in common as far as Scripture reading, songs, prayers and the messages. It’s undeniable that everyone at the service was a person of faith…even if that faith is not in Jesus Christ as Savior.