You Mean I Should Serve Others?

 

Monday, March 30, 2026
You Mean I Should Serve Others? Mark 10:32-45

So, how’s your serve? No, I’m not talking about tennis, obviously. How well do you willingly do what needs to be done – in your home, for your family, at your church, or in the community?

A little transparency is in order here. I love good service. When I dine out, I like the server to be attentive, to understand my order, and to present the meal with care. A smile always finds its way onto my face when the server at Chick-Fil-A responds to my thank you with their signature line – “my pleasure.”

Jesus reverses the natural love to be served asking us to learn to love to serve. It can be difficult to understand that principle as we see in this lesson from Mark’s Gospel.

32 They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid. … 35 Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do for us whatever we ask.”  36 “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. 37 They replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.” 38 “You don’t know what you are asking,” Jesus said. “Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?” 39 “We can,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “You will drink the cup I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with, 40 but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant. These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared.”

41 When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. 42 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Our high calling is to serve – God and others – not for the glory but with joy. God’s pathway to true greatness does not come from a title or an executive office. It is found in faithfulness, in our willingness to seek to serve.

True service is fueled by love, not reward. It is offered without thought of thanks or compensation. How do we do this?
We can take notice of someone who is ‘unseen’ by others offering thanks or encouragement.
We can pray faithfully for someone who is suffering or broken, a service offered in secret.
We can love those who are difficult or unlovely.
We can wash the dishes when our spouse is tired.
We can go the extra mile for a friend.
We can take time to listen and speak of God’s love.

Can it be difficult? It sure can be. But the way of true greatness, Jesus said, is service. “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”

So, how’s your serve?
This Monday, pray for opportunities to serve others and to find the joy of humility and selflessness in the moment. I can say for certain that you will come to the end of the day a happier Christian. Oh, by the way, God sees and never forgets. His reward for ‘good and faithful servants’ is one of which we are absolutely assured.

_________

Reflect -
Who will I choose to serve today?
Do I serve for recognition or for the joy of being useful to God and others?
Am I focused on eternal rewards when I serve?

I am excited to hear of your discoveries, about your struggles, and to pray with you.
If you would like to share any of those things with me you may do by emailing me – JerScott55@gmail.com

For a video of this devotion go to

https://www.youtube.com/@FaithDiscoveryChurch

Walking in the Dark?

Faith Discovery Church, where I served for many years as pastor, meets in a large building. It has beautiful laminate wood trusses supporting a deck roof that reaches 40 feet at its peak.

When the wind blows the building seems to come alive with sounds, creaks, and groans. I have been in that sanctuary for thousands of hours and know every inch of it well. However, when I am in that large room at night and hear those sounds, see the shadows on the walls, I feel uneasy in the darkness. In the light of day in that very same sanctuary, I feel no fear whatever even on the stormiest day. What’s the difference? Light!

Sometimes we find ourselves walking in the dark, in spite of having a beautiful life, don’t we?

Confusion, uncertainty, multiple challenges that exhaust us, combine to hide the ‘light’ of our soul and in that moment, we may feel fear creeping up on us.

Matthew tells us about Jesus telling His friend that He was about to go to Jerusalem and there He would die! Peter objected that such awful things could not be God’s will. Jesus severely reprimanded Peter: "Get behind me, Satan!"  He told him that he would deny knowing Him, to which Peter boldly replied: "Maybe those other guys, but NOT me!"   But, in the dark, when fear took control of his mind and heart, Peter failed spectacularly, even openly denying his Lord, not once, but three times!

When Jesus was taken into custody for an illegal midnight trial. Filled with fear, his friends deserted Him scattering into the night. That week ended with His crucifixion. John tells us that the disciples hid behind locked doors, deeply shaken and fearful. And you think you've had a bad week?

Sometimes God's people walk through dark times!
The Psalmist reminds us, however, that (23:4 NLT) "Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid..." Why? "...for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me." God’s promise is true. Even when we cannot see Him - He is with us. When we are walking through the dark rooms of death, disappointment, or even demonic attack He is with us.

We may wonder, why doesn’t He take us out of such situations? I don’t know! That’s the faith part of the equation. Years after his own fearful failure, a mature Peter urged Christians to be steady, even when they are walking in the dark. He tells us "Don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—because these trials will make you partners with Christ in his suffering, and afterward you will have the wonderful joy of sharing his glory when it is displayed to all the world." 1 Peter 4:12-13 NLT

Are you in the dark today?

In Acts 16, we read a story of faith in the darkness! After doing much good in the city of Philippi, Paul and Silas, were accused of disturbing the peace, beaten by the authorities, and chained to a wall in a filthy jail! Sounds like a suitable time to complain, doesn’t it? “What’s up with this, Lord? Here we are trying to do what you want us to do. And, then you let us end up here in the dark, hurting and bleeding.” That’s not what they did.

They overcame the temptation to fear with a different choice. "Along about midnight, Paul and Silas were at prayer and singing a robust hymn to God. The other prisoners couldn’t believe their ears." (Acts 16:25, The Message) Their praises rose to Heaven, and the hand of God caused an earthquake that shook open the doors; the jailer’s heart was opened by the sincere faith he saw in these two evangelists; and the Light broke through!

If the sun is shining brightly at this moment in your life, be thankful and strengthen your relationship with God, through faith and worship. And, if you are living in the dark so to speak, remember that He is not far away, though you may not see Him in the moment. Instead of running, kneel. Instead of wailing, sing about the faithfulness of God. Sing like Paul and Silas sang at midnight! (Acts 16)

The Light will shine on you again.

Here is a word from the Word.

"Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.

If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you." (Psalm 139:7-12, NIV)

__________________

Video of this blog

https://www.youtube.com/@JerScott55

Fearless? Yes, and No

Are you naturally more bold or more cautious? How often do you hold back from doing something because “I might get hurt!” or “It’s just too risky.”?  I find myself more cautious these days than I once was. I suppose some would call it wisdom. It is true that I appreciate risk to myself and others more in this season of life than I once did. Fear can be useful, helping us to avoid danger, changing our behavior. It can also paralyze us if given free rein.

The Bible says that “the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love.” (Psalm 33) Proverbs reminds us that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” (Proverbs 1:7) Do you have a healthy ‘fear of the Lord’ that keeps your heart reverent, that deepens your appreciation of the Gospel’s message of grace?

God is gracious, loving, and "patient ... not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9, NIV) But He is still God, always just, and perfectly holy. Some who read only of the ‘love of God’ tend to forget that He disciplines those He loves!

Have you ever watched an ineffective parent try to provide guidance to a child who has no respect? Even a little child will soon understand that the parent is all talk, no action if their actions have no consequence.  When a parent allows a toddler to run life, failing to establish proper boundaries for behavior, they are creating the probability of some terrible teen years.

Of course, I make no case for child abuse, for parenting in anger! Parents gain the respect and obedience in a child when they are fair, firm, consistent, and understanding. A child who learns to obey actually requires less correction. They learn to regulate their own behavior, knowing that actions have reactions!  A strong parent creates a home where there is less stress, less nagging, and more harmony. They project wisdom that invites the child to accept their guidance. A little one learns to trust and obey and avoids danger and harm.

The parallels to the Christian life are many. If we Believers are taught only the grace of God, if we only learn of Jesus, as our Friend, but not as our Lord; we will lose the awe and respect that motivates us to subjugate our will to God's will. We will see no need to let God own us (a definition of being holy) because we will trivialize His demands.

Passages like Isaiah 6 need to be read often to help us to understand the majestic 'otherness' of God, that He is not a man! The prophet wrote: "I had a vision of the Lord. He was on his throne high above, and his robe filled the temple. Flaming creatures with six wings each were flying over him. They covered their faces with two of their wings and their bodies with two more. They used the other two wings for flying, as they shouted, "Holy, holy, holy, Lord All-Powerful! The earth is filled with your glory." . . . Then I cried out, "I’m doomed! Everything I say is sinful, and so are the words of everyone around me. Yet I have seen the King, the Lord All-Powerful." (Isaiah 6:5, CEV) The LORD did not abandon Isaiah to that despair. He cleansed him of his sinfulness and commissioned him to go out powerfully under the Spirit's anointing with a message of hope and restoration to the people.

 

Is your God big enough to fear and respect?
Is He worthy of awe?
Do you trust His wisdom to guide and keep you?

The better question is, do you know Him as a true Father or only as a ‘Friend?’

We thrive in our devotion when our understanding is informed by the full revelation of His nature and character in the Word. No, that will not be a terror that makes you cringe and hide. Rather, you will feel a deep sense of awe that causes you to tremble, to love Him, to serve Him in holiness.

Here's a word from the Word. Meditate on this truth today.

"Have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, "My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child." As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? If God doesn’t discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all. Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever? For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness." (Hebrews 12:5-10, NLT)

His love is amazing.
The grace of God is beyond comprehension.
His discipline is always for our good.

__________________

Video of this blog

https://www.youtube.com/@JerScott55

 

Blow it all up!

Our world is presently rocked by a war in Iran, angry nations experiencing the loss of life and destruction of property that goes with angry conflict of nations. Personally, we all experience anger and disagreement. Most of the time we do not resort to violent means. More commonly we let a war of words break out, feelings are hurt, and sometimes relationships end.

Anger is like dynamite! Explosives are a boon to humanity. The combustion engines that give energy to our vehicles are really just controlled explosions. We blast through rocks to build roads through mountains. Rockets ride the release of huge amounts of energy to venture from earth into space. And we know too well from watching the news this week that explosives are also a terrible blight, destroying cities and killing thousands.

In much the same way, we can use anger to change our world, to deal with injustice, to challenge some evil that needs to be eradicated. Too much anger can destroy a friendship, tear apart a marriage, turn a man into a murderer, or drive a nation to war! But if we are too apathetic to become angry, we will learn to live with situations that need to be changed.

It is critically important that anger is kept within boundaries. When anger builds in us a whole range of responses begin to occur. Blood pressure increases. Our heart rate goes up. Adrenaline pours into our body preparing us for a fight! If we are not accustomed to managing our emotions, anger will quickly cause us to move toward irrational thoughts that turn into blind rage.

That is why I call anger the emotion the devil loves! The Scripture speaks of anger, not as sin, but with caution so that it does not cause us to sin. Jesus Christ, the Sinless Man, grew angry! Mark tells us that when some religious leaders resisted His work of healing because of the Sabbath traditions, "He looked around at them in anger, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts!" Then, too, there is that well-known incident when an angry Jesus took up a whip and drove the money changers from the Temple grounds because their greed led them to exploit worshippers! He shouted at those crooks – “My house will be called a house of prayer,’[a] but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.”  (Matthew 21)

IF we want to avoid being consumed by anger we must learn to limit how far we allow to reach into our lives and how long we allow ourselves to remain angry. The wisdom of Scripture says:
"Don't sin by letting anger control you." Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil." (Ephesians 4:26-27, NLT) And
"So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore, lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls." (James 1:19-21, NKJV)

Be honest with yourself when you're starting to feel angry. If you are not, the emotion is so powerful it will find a way to seep into many other parts of your life like a corrosive acid that opens your mind to temptations around lust, rage, uncontrolled spending, or misuse of alcohol and/or drugs! It is true! Many people with life-controlling issues are really just angry children inside, looking for relief from the suppressed anger they feel over situations they think they cannot control.

So how can we keep anger from blowing up our world?

1. Be quick to invite another to monitor your anger.
As you talk about being angry you will be more likely to properly identify the source so you can find the right solution.

2. Pray about your anger!
The last thing you may feel like doing when you're growing angry at someone is taking it to the Lord, but it is one of the first responses for those who are Christ's. Invite the Holy Spirit to calm you, to give you insight, to drain selfishness from your soul.

3. Deal with it now!
Don't stuff anger away under pious talk, or diversions that keep you from thinking about it. In just a few hours, minor irritation can turn into a major conflict if it is not promptly dealt with.

4. Learn to forgive.
To forgive doesn't mean 'just forget about it.' Forgiveness is a choice to turn some injustice over to Him, with the sure knowledge that He will, in His time and with His wisdom, bring about true justice - maybe not today or tomorrow, but He will.

So, you can take that person, that situation, that wound to Him and leave it with Him. "Lord, I have not been able to deal with this. I can't solve it, I can't control it, I can't work it out. I give it to You. I release it to You and ask You to let my heart leave it there." It is simply amazing that peace can flow into our lives IF we choose to forgive others in this manner!

5. Repent, if you have stepped over the line from anger to rage!
Own your emotions and responsibility for them. Nobody can cause us to sin. As much as we don't believe this it is true: nobody makes us angry. We choose that response! And where we choose to sin, the Bible calls us to confess and in confession to find the Lord's forgiveness and release from guilt.

America is full of ungodly anger today at least in part because we are so fearful. We fear the future. Constand exposure to news channels makes us afraid of our neighbors. Christian, settle yourself in the care and love of the Father who holds you in the palm of His hand. And, then I pray that the Holy Spirit will fill our hearts with serenity. From that place of peace, we will become peacemakers who bring reconciliation and live the word of Jesus who said - "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." (Matthew 5:9, NIV)

May we live as agents of peace in our violent world for the glory of God. Amen.

__________________

Video of this blog

https://www.youtube.com/@JerScott55

My neighbor in the Middle East

This week our news has been filled with scenes of destruction, bombs and missiles raining down on cities across the Middle East. I am concerned that being able to watch this kind of warfare on screens in our living rooms will make the war more like a video game, robbing us of our empathy and care for real people who live in fear, whose lives are at risk every moment, and whose future is uncertain.

This CoffeeBreak is not pro-war or anti-war, nor are my words to be read as supporting or opposing the policies of our government. I write as a Christian to remind us that in spite of thousands of miles of distance from war zones we are still ‘neighbors.’  We share a common humanity with those in that region.

Tragically, ours is a culture of violence. Our movies create heroes who solve major problems with a spray of bullets. Our kids play realistic video games in which they learn to kill efficiently. Somehow, though we would deny it, I think many subconsciously have come to believe that the answer to evil in the world is producing more bombs and bullets!

Nations around the world build ever bigger machines of war spending treasure by the $billions to create weapons that kills more efficiently. And what are Christians saying? Many of us are silent; perhaps confused by the situations we face or even feeling it is foolish to advocate for other means of confronting evil. It may seem unpatriotic not to join the chorus for war and to rejoice in the destruction of those who oppose us. But what does God, our Father ask of us?

Yes, timid prayers for peace may be offered in churches. Lip service may be given to ‘loving our enemies’ but largely, it would seem to me, that many of us are largely ignorant of the core message of the Gospel. We are to be advocates of humanity, seekers of peace. Jesus said that “peacemakers are blessed and will be called the children of God.”

God loves life! The culture of death in which we live will deeply grieve those who share the heart of the Father. Murder came, the book of Genesis tells us, on the heels of envy when Cain killed his brother, Abel. Before that murder, we read the Lord’s call to Cain, one we need to hear anew. "Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it.” (Genesis 4:6-7, NIV) By the power of the Spirit, our hearts transformed by the Gospel of Christ, we can defeat the temptation to violence, first in ourselves, then in our culture.

God defeated evil not with an awesome display of angelic armies turned loose on wicked regimes but with the offering of His Son on the Cross. In the mystery of our salvation, we see Him breaking the power of Evil in submission to death and by completely identifying Himself with His creation. “Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.”  (Philippians 2) And in His sacrifice, He ended the reign of sin and death in our lives.

War comes, sometimes inevitably it seems. When it does, I hope we will weep with those who are crushed. I pray we will urge our government to be just and to use every means to end hostilities quickly for if we believe Jesus’ words, then we know that it is our neighbors who are suffering!

Jesus told a story about a man regarded as outcast, even enemy by the people of Jerusalem. His words, though simple, are compelling and I pray they will pierce us through the heart with Truth. May each of us ask again – “Who is my neighbor?” and hear the answer of Christ.

"But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him.

He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’ “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”  (Luke 10:29-38, NIV)

Russell Moore urges us to remember that there are three traps into which we may fall in times of warfare.  He warns of bloodlust, when it starts to “feel good to feel that pulse of vengeance.”   He warns of sloth when “Americans will soon grow bored of hearing about this war and want to move on to other things.” And he warns of duplicity, claiming to believe one thing but cheering another.  (link to the full article here – ( https://www.christianitytoday.com/2026/03/what-us-israel-iran-war-could-do-soul/ )

May God make us wise, fearless, and merciful, for Jesus’ sake.

__________________

Video of this blog

https://www.youtube.com/@JerScott55

Chaotic or Providential?

When I woke up to the news that bombs were falling once again in the Middle East, I groaned, nearly weeping for millions who were now suffering under the pain of yet another war. “Lord, how can this be? Why do humans haul out weapons to settle disputes so readily? Have You taken leave of us, abandoning us to our own folly and self-will?”

My comments are not meant to be read either in support or condemnation of US policies. I’ll leave that to better minds who are, hopefully, more informed that I am. My musings focus on the question of God’s providence. What is His will? Can I be secure in my faith that His hand ultimately guides the affairs of this world and that He will keep me in His grace for this life and into the next?

Christians believe in the providential care of their Heavenly Father. The Bible teaches us that God is at work, often in ways that are unseen, that He is actively guiding and working in and through circumstances and history to fulfill His purposeful, loving, and sovereign will. Providence comes from a Latin word,  providentia, which means foresight. We believe that God is "seeing to" the universe, that He is directing natural events to accomplish supernatural goals often through ordinary means not miracles to fulfill His promises.

When we look at life only in a moment it often does appear to be a chaotic mess, events that toss us about in random ways, without meaning or purpose. We all ask ourselves, ‘why is this happening?’ from time to time. Even the most faith filled Christian will find himself at least occasionally wondering if God truly reigns! BUT, when we step back and take in the sweep of history, when we are willing to wait patiently and prayerfully in turbulent times we will see God at work.

The story of Joseph illustrates providential care. The young teen is tragically sold by jealous brothers into Egyptian slavery. During the next two decades he seems to go from one awful injustice to another. But the path leads him to the fulfillment of God’s providence and amazingly his faithfulness results in his becoming Prime Minister of Egypt. In that place he is positioned to be the savior of his family, a key figure in Israel’s history. When his treacherous brothers finally stood before him, he tells them – “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.” (Genesis 50)

We are inspired by the promise of Romans 8 where we read – “We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. 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. … What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Providence is very different from fate. Providence is guided, the work of God. Fate (you could say ‘luck’) is blind trust in the unseen, a wish that ‘everything will eventually work out.’  I secure my heart and mind in the loving care of a purposeful Father!

Christians understand God’s providence as being both general and specific. In the former we understand that the Creator formed the natural order and the universe to provide such things that we need for life – sunshine, rain, growing plants for food, etc. The latter invites us to live with faith in His promise to provide for us as we pray and live in obedience where the Spirit is able to guide, protect, and deliver us. We see this in the ways that we avoid tragedy or find just what we need in the moment that all may seem lost.

Living in the providential care of our God does not mean that we are without responsibility for our choices. There is a tension found in the Bible holding seemingly irreconcilable facts as being true. One is that we are free to choose our way, even to the point of rejecting God. The another teaches us that God knows our days before even one comes into existence and that His will is greater than our choices.

Proverbs 16:9 says “In their hearts human beings plan their lives. But the Lord decides where their steps will take them.”   The intersection of Divine will and Human freedom is found in this description of Jesus’ path to the Cross. “This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross.”  (Acts 2.23) The plan for the salvation of humanity was God’s own, yet it resulted from the schemes of jealous and evil men!

What I conclude, dear friends, is that life may appear to be chaotic at this moment. It may seem that evil triumphs as terrible things occur as a result of the choices of people who ignore or reject God’s ways. BUT faith invites me to trust Him to work through it all; the good, the bad, the ugly – to bring about His purposes.

Let us humble ourselves before Him.
Let us quiet our minds in meditation.
Let us admit to our finite abilities.
Let us secure ourselves in hope!

Here is a word from the Word. May it bring peace to our minds and purpose to our choices.

“Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong;
for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this:
He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn,
your vindication like the noonday sun.

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when people succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes.

Refrain from anger and turn from wrath;
do not fret—it leads only to evil.
For those who are evil will be destroyed,
 but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.
A little while, and the wicked will be no more;
though you look for them, they will not be found.
But the meek will inherit the land
and enjoy peace and prosperity.”
(Psalm 37)

Lord, increase my faith! Amen.

__________________

Video of this blog

https://www.youtube.com/@JerScott55

Minimal Participation, Maximum Loss

Ever look for a ‘loophole’ to avoid a rule? Loopholes allow people to circumvent the intent of the law. American tax codes are full of loopholes that allow some to avoid paying their full tax. Kids are famous for their ability to interpret Mom’s words with narrow application, keeping the letter of the law while missing the intent of it. They can then claim, “But I did what you said, Mom!”

Religious observance is sometimes practiced with this same kind of minimal participation that misses the point of full devotion. Jesus once said of some very religious people that they were scrupulous to give the required 10% of their income but missed the very point of generosity.  

So, where did this strange word come from?

The term "loophole" originated in the mid-15th century from medieval forts and castles. A loophole was a narrow, vertical slits in the wall through which archers could shoot at attackers and yet remain safe from returned arrows. The word came from Middle English loupe, a slit.

One day Jesus disciples were challenged by religious leaders for failure to practice the required ritual handwashing before eating. These men were ignoring their own glaring hypocrisies. Jesus answered them with a stinging critique- “And why do you, by your traditions, violate the direct commandments of God? For instance, God says, ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and ‘Anyone who speaks disrespectfully of father or mother must be put to death.’ But you say it is all right for people to say to their parents, ‘Sorry, I can’t help you. For I have vowed to give to God what I would have given to you.’ In this way, you say they don’t need to honor their parents. And so you cancel the word of God for the sake of your own tradition.

You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you, for he wrote,
 ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.
Their worship is a farce, for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God.’”  (Matthew 15)

Have you ever done that with the Words of God? I am sure I have. Thinking I have found a loophole, I ignore the plain teaching of the Scripture, twisting the words of the text in a way that allows me to conveniently set aside my obedience. In the process, I rob myself of God’s best and fail to honor Him with my whole heart.

Jesus reserved His most harsh words for those who professed a love for God, using all the right words but who worked hard to find loopholes that allowed them to claim to be holy all the while doing exactly what they wanted to do. God wasn't buying the Pharisees' professions of devotions as authentic. In another text from the Gospel, we read this story.

"A man with two sons told the older boy, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ The son answered, ‘No, I won’t go,’ but later he changed his mind and went anyway. Then the father told the other son, ‘You go,’ and he said, ‘Yes, sir, I will.’ But he didn’t go. "Which of the two obeyed his father?" They replied, "The first." Then Jesus explained his meaning: "I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do." (Matthew 21:28-31, NLT)

Cheap religion is all about making a good impression by singing the 'right' kind of songs, being in the church at the 'right' times or saying the 'right' kind of prayers -all unmatched by the right kind of heart!

No matter how we dress it up, God isn't impressed by our ‘lawyering’ of the Scripture. He desires true devotion that encompasses the totality of our lives, meeting not just the ‘letter of the Law’ but finding the spirit of His commandments.

When we honestly admit to our desire to do our own thing than to say we love Him while continuing to live for ourselves we become open to the work of the Holy Spirit Who begins to change us inside out.

Adopting a superficial holiness is a kind of vaccine that prevents us from feeling the effects of sin's sickness that drives us to desperately seek Him! Listen to the passion in the words of the Lord when He challenges a heart-less religion. "Frauds! Isaiah’s prophecy of you hit the bull’s-eye: These people make a big show of saying the right thing, but their heart isn’t in it." (Matthew 15:7-8, The Message)

Here at the beginning of Lent, I appeal to us all to be authentic. IF there are thoughts, desires, words, actions that are ‘less than’ the wholeness of God’s desire, confess it. If there are gaps between the claim to love God and reality, admit it – to yourself first, then to Him.

Let’s pray to know and walk in the full intent of God’s Word, not seeking loopholes, but pursuing wholehearted devotion. In this, we will find true JOY in the journey.

Here's a word from the Word on which to meditate today.

“What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
(James 2:14-18 New Living Translation)

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Goodbye, carrot cake!

Your life, like mine, tends to fill up with ‘stuff.’  Some of what we do is important; going to work, maintaining our home, caring for our health, serving others in Christ’s Name … and some is not; like scrolling through social media, for example. IF we hope to find the life for which we are created, we will need times of refocus, liking hitting the reset button!

Regular commitment to a day of worship and being ‘in church’ each week is one way that happens. Another is observing Church’s calendar. Tomorrow, we enter the 40-day season called Lent. It is a time of renewal that is intended to prepare us to celebrate the Death and Resurrection of Jesus, our Savior.

The neglected spiritual discipline of fasting is encouraged during this time of year.
Fasting is about abstaining from food, pleasure, comfort, entertainment.
We can fast by setting aside some pleasurable pursuit, time on social media, or some special food.
We can fast by generously giving away our time in selfless service.
It is a positive way to practice obedience subjecting our body to the Spirit in a way that allows us a renewed experience of His Presence!

God made us with a spirit-body connection!
What we do in our physical body influences our spiritual state- both positively and negatively. The Holy Word says "So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step. I am not like a boxer who misses his punches. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified." (1 Corinthians 9:26-27, NLT) A literal translation of the NT Greek would read “I pound my body into submission!” 

Careful here! God is not demanding ascetic self-denial that comes to self-abuse. There is a real spiritual maturity to be found in the reminder that life is more than food, clothes, or comfort.

Whatever our choice, fasting is not about proving anything to God.

Jesus taught us to practice spiritual disciplines like fasting, giving, and prayer without telling anyone. He said, "when you fast, don't make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, who try to look pale and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I assure you, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will suspect you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in secret. And your Father, who knows all secrets, will reward you." (Matthew 6:16-18 NLT) If we 'show off' with our ‘discipline’ it becomes nothing more than a means of making ourselves feel better, self-focused, the very thing of which we desire to be free.

Will you fast in some way this season of Lent? Perhaps you’ll give up your sugary desserts or your latte addiction. Goodbye, carrot cake!

Whatever your choice, keep the focus on humble worship. Personally, I think we might be better served by giving up some TV time for prayer, meditation or reading Scripture than giving up some incidental food item.

Are you serious about spiritual growth? Then, ask the Lord if you need to discipline your body to provide freedom for the Spirit, to allow for a reset.

Here’s a word from the Word about living in the Spirit. Think deeply and prayerfully on the promise of this passage. “So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. … But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.”  (Galatians 5)

Lent! May it be a season of renewal of joy and growth in the Spirit, for the glory of God.

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Love Day Tomorrow

I celebrated Valentine’s Day with abandon when my wife was still at my side. I spent a silly amount on Hallmark cards and overpriced roses throughout our 41 years of marriage. I would do it all again! I do not think that there is such a thing as 'too much' when it comes to celebrating love and marriage.

I remember one Valentine's card I bought (just for fun) that was the size of a framed picture! The picture of the rose printed on the front was frighteningly large, almost grotesque. When Bev opened it, she laughed - "What am I supposed to do with this?" Her reaction was priceless, momentarily her surprise overcame her general disposition to be kind in her words.

Valentine’s Day is important even though it is commercialized and trivialized because love must be nurtured. It is a foolish spouse who neglects tender words and gentle caresses because “we said our vows and nothing’s changed.”  Love that is assumed easily dies. To the men particularly I say this; those who are really 'in love' are never too sophisticated for Valentine's Day. Romance is not about careful calculation or sophistication. It is a heart thing!

Of course, there will be plenty of fake love spread around tomorrow. Cards, chocolate, and flowers will be purchased to make an impression, to manipulate, or to just meet expectations. The symbols must rest on the reality if they are to be meaningful. Without genuine affection and esteem in daily words and actions, the roses or cards can become an offense.

Real love is not often portrayed in our pop songs and movies. In 2026 love and sex are all tangled up, a ‘hook-up’ supposedly the same as an intimate commitment of mind and body. Do not get me wrong about that. Sexual attraction is a part of love. The Bible is quite clear about that. There is an entire book devoted to it in the Old Testament. (Song of Solomon.)

Paul tells Christian couples "Do not deprive each other of sexual relations, unless you both agree to refrain from sexual intimacy for a limited time so you can give yourselves more completely to prayer. Afterward, you should come together again. . .." (1 Corinthians 7:5, NLT)

I’m sure you know that but I will say it anyway. Love is more than pleasure and intimacy. This passage is a call to the best kind of Valentine celebration. We are taught that "Love is kind and patient, never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude. Love isn’t selfish or quick tempered. It doesn’t keep a record of wrongs that others do. Love rejoices in the truth, but not in evil. Love is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting. .... For now there are faith, hope, and love. But of these three, the greatest is love." (1 Corinthians 13:7-11, 13, CEV)

The card, those red roses are nice, but they can never replace selfless giving of one’s self and time. We must seek to know the other person deeply, to understand and accept them even when their ways and ideas are challenging. The love described above will survive long after the hormones that spark sexual passions have diminished with age. It gives a beauty that really is more than 'skin deep.'

A final thought – Love is not just for spouse, family, or friend.

Real love is the very essence of the nature of God. Think deeply about these inspired words – “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”  (1 John 4)

Jesus said that all the commandments are summed up in just two –
1. “Love God whole-heartedly.”
2. “Love others in the same way that you love yourself.”

Even if you are not romantically tied to anyone - celebrate love! Love, like Christ loved you! It will change your world; yes, that love will come back to change you!

Here is a word from the Word- “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even the godless do that.” (Matthew 5:45-47)

Happy Valentine's Day.

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Just a speck in the universe?

Do you ever wake up in the morning and wonder if you matter if you really are more than just a passing speck of life in the universe? Sure, you are important to your family, perhaps to a small circle of friends, but are you truly valuable; do you matter?

We may not say it out loud, but we all tend to think about our worth. We look for value for ourselves in all kinds of things. Some seek physical attractiveness. Some accumulate wealth or symbols of it. Some pursue awards and titles. Some crave to be known. Yet we wonder – ‘do I matter?’  Age comes and beauty fades. Economies fail and wealth disappears. In time another takes our place.

Solomon, a king of Israel, enjoyed it all and yet in his old age he cynically wrote – “I came to hate life because everything done here under the sun is so troubling. Everything is meaningless—like chasing the wind.” (Ecclesiastes 2)

There is a lasting way to find purpose and significance in this world, one that endures time and change, which cannot be stolen or erased. We need not become cynical with time and age if we know what God says about us and our value!

Jesus teaches us that God knows the smallest detail about you and me! He said – “Not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. And you are worth more than a whole flock of sparrows.” (Matthew 10)

The Psalmist says of God. “You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered!”  (139)

Yes, we are known, valued, treasured, and made for His love, not just as a group, but each one of us individually.

Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, my favorite book of the Bible because of the truth of grace and purpose of which he writes, includes this passage. “God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus. So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2)

In spite of our failures and our frailties, He loves you and me and gifts us with life, valuing us as living examples of His “incredible wealth of grace and kindness.”  That’s something worth living for and truly a reason to know that we matter. We are part of the Divine Plan.

I was touched and inspired by the testimony of Jelly Roll, a country artist, at last week’s Grammy awards. He offered a powerful testimony crediting Jesus and his wife for saving him from an awful past of addiction, drug-dealing, and prison. "Jesus is for everybody," he said, asserting faith belongs to the broken, not just the polished. A life once worthless by all accounts was made new by faith and from that loving grace he found, a new value and way of living emerged!

When we accept the grace of God, by faith, we are both humbled and made noble in the same moment. We realize that our worth can never be attained by any effort we make and yet we know that we are “royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. … Once you had no identity as a people; now you are God’s people. Once you received no mercy; now you have received God’s mercy.” (1 Peter 2)

Yes, our lives are short, and our earthly accomplishments are soon eclipsed. But, in Christ Jesus, we are of great worth – now and for eternity. Believe it, friend. This truth will change your life. It provides freedom from pride and fear, and it is a reason for joy.

I close with yet another amazing passage from God’s Word, our word for today. BE encouraged, called to higher purpose by the Truth. “See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know him. Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is. And all who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as he is pure.”  (1 John 3)

Believe it. Live it. Find new joy.

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This race we run.

Last night I watched the spectacle that opened the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy and what a show it was: so well done and classy!  Hundreds of athletes walked and danced their way into the games, eager to compete, to show off their skill, and to pursue a medal.

As I watched a thought recurred in my mind. “This show is not really the heart of the Olympics. The real stuff has been happening on ski slopes and ice rinks for years. What these young athletes achieve now will be result of what they have done with discipline in preparation.” 

Nobody just parties their way to the international competition. 
They work … hard!

Our Christian life can take a lesson from them. IF we hope to know the best of what God has prepared, if we want to serve in the most effective way for Christ Jesus, if we desire to find the richest reward in eternity, we need to understand the importance of focus and discipline.  Paul was inspired by the athletes of his day and tells us - “Run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should.”  (1 Corinthians 9)

There is an important point to be made before we go on – we cannot earn God’s favor, nor is eternal life in Heaven the result of human effort. We are made children of God by faith and because of His grace – period. Jesus gave Himself for us, made peace with God on our behalf, and offers the gift of spiritual life to all who will receive Him.

However, the Christian life requires focus, purpose, choice, and discipline. Spiritual maturity does not just come with age or time. We grow into the fullness of the life of the Spirit by learning, practicing, and sacrificing.

In my early years I thought that being a good Christian would result from an experience found in some revival meeting or through some ecstatic moment in prayer. I lived on a spiritual roller coaster going from one emotional height to another with long dips in valleys of discouragement. I questioned why I could not seem to find the richness of Christ that I read about in stories of great Christians.

Then I found a book that changed my Christian life. Richard Foster wrote The Celebration of Discipline in 1978, outlining the daily choices we can make that open our minds and hearts to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit.  He explained the value of meditation, study, solitude, simplicity, submission, service, and worship. These were not to be practiced incidentally or at my convenience. They were daily choices, like the regular training of an athlete. What a difference I found as I became purposeful in my Christian life, moving beyond a focus on my emotions.

I learned to serve, to love, to forgive, to remain steadfast in commitment through the ups and downs of daily life in this present age. No longer focused on myself, I looked to Christ and His Word for identity and for hope. When my race is over my true hope is not that others will say – “What a great guy Jerry was.” Rather, I pray that it will be said, “What a great God he served!”

The best reward will be hearing those words of my Savior – “Well done, faithful servant!”

Are you growing into spiritual maturity?
Are you serving with joy in a way that honors your spiritual gifts?
Are you loving extravagantly, as you are loved?

Remember, the aim is not perfection, it is growth. Let’s grow together.

Here is a word from the Word, my testimony. “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things.”  (Philippians 3)

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“I gotta be perfect!”

In a conversation with a person about ‘going to Heaven’ he blurted out – “I gotta be perfect to get there and I know I’m not!”  He was both right and wrong in his conclusions. Yes, it true that our holy God has no tolerance for sin and no stain of sinfulness is allowed in His eternal city. But there is a perfection available to you and me that is not of our own making!

I am only too aware of my sins and failures. It is not a stretch for me to understand David’s lament. “I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict …Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity.”  (Psalm 51)

This guilt is a universal condition in the human experience. Paul reminds us that "all have sinned; all fall short of God's glorious standard." (Romans 3:23)

So much for perfection, right? This being the truth how can we hope for a home in God’s eternal city? How can we even dream of eternal life?

Against the dark background of our failures stands the grace of God who acted to set us right with Him, removing our guilt, and gifting us with a holy perfection not of our making. “God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.” (Romans 3:24)

In Ephesians we read about the amazingly scandalous love of God for us in the opening lines and then in chapter 2, there is an abrupt change. This is the indictment- "As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins… All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath." (Ephesians 2:3, NIV)

Then, he writes, "But God..." There is the Divine Exception which makes our hope of a home in Heaven (and a life in His Presence right here, right now) possible! "But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so very much, that even while we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. ... God saved you by his special favor when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." --Ephesians 2:3-10 NLT

The Perfect God did not take the “Grandpa” route in dealing with our sins. We grandparents are ever so ready to ignore or excuse the failures of our grandchildren. We are not responsible for their training so we can just get on with loving them. God is our Father, not our Grandpa. He cannot look at our disobedient behavior and brush it off, overlook it, or excuse it.

But He can offer a sacrifice that forgives us, an atonement for our guilt debt, and the power of the Spirit that changes us from sinner to saint. That is exactly what He’s done for us in Christ Jesus.

When we begin to grasp the depth of His grace, accepting the gift of life, then love replaces fear. Assurance replaces uncertainty. We no longer hide from Him or pretend that we are better than we are. We need not live in denial of the truth about want we have done. Instead, we let Him lead us even through the tests and trials that perfect our faith. In this way He brings us to spiritual maturity. This ‘perfection’ thing is a process – a work of our Deliverer and the disciplines of the Spirit.

Do you want to be rid of the fear of eternity? Do you want to be free from shame? Honestly confess your sins and failures to God, then receive the Gift. The Word tells us we “no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith.”  (Philippians 3)
From that starting point of faith, God leads us into a new kind of life, and we become in reality who He has declared us to be. Here is a word from the Word. May it guide us to hope today. "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."  (Phil. 3:12-14)

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