"I'm outta here"

Lee Sparks, a former pastor, now writer, wrote a provocative column (REV. - Jan. '06) about the way we tend to say, "I'm outta here," within 30 seconds of the moment that something happens which makes feel us uncomfortable or upset. I've heard that threat -"I'm outta here!"- from people in the churches I've led so many times it doesn't shock me anymore. Apparently, it doesn't take much to cause us to leave the Body we profess to love with all of our heart! Some have marched off to another church over a single sermon that they didn't like, or worse; didn't even understand - without ever even giving their Pastor a chance to explain his intent. Some have packed their bags over a change that was made in a sincere attempt to guide the church towards a more effective ministry. They left even before the results were in to see if the right decision had been made. Others have left because they didn't get the kind of attention they wanted, or they got attention over something they hoped would never see the light of day!

Transparency with you requires that I admit that I've been tempted - more than once in 30 years of ministry- to walk into the pulpit and announce, "I'm outta here!" That urge rises when frustration with something or somebody overcomes love, vision, and/or patience. Thanks to the Holy Spirit's restraint (and my wife's wise counsel), I've never actually done it.

Donald Miller (author of Searching for God Knows What) wonders why we tend to more quickly 'dis-associate' than we do to build strong bonds with each other. I wonder, too.
What makes us run from friends, from family members, from each other, from our church - when we perceive that our needs are not being attended to in a way that satisfies us?
Why, when we are hurt, do we turn against others, therein hurting them?
Why, at the very moment, when we need the steadiness of those who know us best, do we run off to some other place or group that is less equipped to meet our need?
I don't have the answer for those questions.

But I know this: "I'm outta here" is not a good choice. Running away from our conflicts and/or disappointments is never a solution that produces good results. We are left with unresolved questions, lingering resentment, and some 'old business' that always comes 'round again on the agenda somewhere down the road of life.

In one of the most moving passages in the whole New Testament (John 17), Jesus has a long conversation with the men who have hung around with him for three years. That very night, He knows that He will be torn from them to die a terrible death, in the process also being wrenched from the fellowship of the Father as He sacrifices Himself. In the depth of His emotion, He prays this amazing and convicting thing - "The goal is for all of them to become one heart and mind— Just as you, Father, are in me and I in you, so they might be one heart and mind with us. Then the world might believe that you, in fact, sent me. The same glory you gave me, I gave them, So they’ll be as unified and together as we are— I in them and you in me. Then they’ll be mature in this oneness, and give the godless world evidence that you’ve sent me and loved them in the same way you’ve loved me. " (John 17:21-23, The Message)

Jesus didn't just say - "Help them to be nice to each other 'cause people like nice people!" That's the way we read it too often! Frankly, nice usually stinks. 'Nice' is a phony facade that covers a lot of disappointment and cynicism and it hinders the painful process of resolution. Jesus prayed that we would "become ONE in heart and mind." He said that our willingness to work through our differences with each other and to allow a Spiritual unity to develop would convince the godless of the reality of God and His love. He prayed that we would have such a sense of our 'value' as a result of God's love for us that we would be able to absorb the pain of being 'devalued' by the actions of other Christians, both those intentionally designed to hurt us and those hurts that come our way in the course of everyday life. Knowing God's love in that way requires time, investment, and searching for Him whole-heartedly. Oh, what a result, though. When we are Divinely loved, we become great lovers of people and God becomes visible and desirable to those who have concluded that the good life is about getting a new car or having sex with somebody other than their spouse!

So, here's a challenge to myself and to you. Let's commit that in 2006 the words - "I'm outta here" - will not be spoken or acted out by us! When relationships get strained (and they will because we are failure prone human beings who get tired, who speak thoughtlessly, and who just don't get it at least some of the time); let's commit to run towards each other. Courageously, let's say - "I want to talk about that," but not meaning- "I want to prove to you that you're an idiot!" Instead, let's adopt the intent of - "I want us to show that we really love each other enough to hug this difference between us until it melts in the warmth of God's love!"

By God's grace, let's learn to love each other. No more "I'm outta here!" In place of that, how about - "Let's pray 'til we see the Light together!"
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They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love

We are one in the Spirit, We are one in the Lord,
We are one in the Spirit, We are one in the Lord,
And we pray that all unity
May one day be restored.

We will walk with each other
We will walk hand in hand,
We will walk with each other
We will walk hand in hand,
And together we'll spread the news
That God is in our land.

We will work with each other
We will work side be side,
We will work with each other
We will work side by side,
And we'll guard each one's dignity
And save each one's pride.

All praise to the Father
From whom all things come;
And all praise toChrist Jesus, His only Son;
And all praise to
The Spirit who makes us one.

And they'll know we are Christians
By our love, by our love.
Yes, they'll know we are Christians
By our love.

Author: Scholtes, PeterCopyright: 1966 F.E.L. Publications (a div. of the Lorenz Corporation)

It's all right now.

The child is a mess; a flood of tears, gasping for breath between sobs. "I want my Mom," the words wheeze out in little spasms of physical emotion. When Mom shows up, she takes the little one in her arms, gathering her close, and her soothing words, "it's all right now, Mommy's here," spread like a salve, healing the broken heart of that child. In a moment's time, terror gives way to peace - 'cause Mom is there. It's a magical scene!

Think of me what you will, there are times in my life when nothing except God's loving arms can comfort me! Challenges, disappointments, even weariness overwhelm me. "When can I meet God?" is the prayer of my heart. When a break comes, I find a quiet corner where I close my eyes in prayer, "LORD, I need You!" is the only prayer I can manage. The Holy Spirit embraces me - and in my spirit I hear the Voice of God say, "it's all right now!" Sometimes as I sense the Spirit's Presence, I cannot hold back the tears, as the emotions that have been bottled up spill over the dam in my heart. There was a time when I was ashamed of those tears, fearing that they were a sign of weakness in me, but now I understand that they are a language that God understands. Jesus wept, too!

The message of Christmas is that God is near- "Emmanuel, God with us!" The Gospel writers make it abundantly clear that He is not just God for the 'together,' the rich, the beautiful, the brave, or the intelligent. Jesus, the Christ, is the God of the little, the forgotten, the weak, those bruised and broken by life. He chose a young girl from a hill town to birth Him into this world. He chose to be born among us in the animal shelter 'out back,' because the room up front was full. Just maybe the kinsfolk of Joseph in Bethlehem had 'no room' specifically because they could count to nine, and knew that Mary's pregnancy was a scandal. The royal family in Judah determined early on to kill Him, and Jesus' family became fugitives for a time until Herod's death. As He began His adult ministry, Mark tells us that His own family thought He was mentally unstable and tried to bring Him home to avoid embarrassment. At the end of His short life, He hung naked, pinned to a rough cross, bleeding to death, while passers-by hurled insults at Him. Pilate mocked Him - "The King of the Jews" read the sign ordered nailed above Him as He died, a cruel joke.

So, you see, He understands your weariness, your brokenness, your disappointment, your feelings of worthlessness... He's been there! But, He offers more than sympathy. He is the Savior who is also the Lord of Glory. He is the embodiment of the Promise of the Great Reversal - who will make the last, first - who will exalt the humble!

Mary's song captures the joy we can know because of the Christmas promise. Read it thoughtfully today.
Note the triumph in the words, spoken prophetically, and with great hope. It is a poem written from the safety of the Divine Parent's embrace.

“Oh, how I praise the Lord. How I rejoice in God my Savior!
For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and now generation after generation will call me blessed. For he, the Mighty One, is holy, and he has done great things for me.

His mercy goes on from generation to generation, to all who fear him. His mighty arm does tremendous things! How he scatters the proud and haughty ones! He has taken princes from their thrones and exalted the lowly.

He has satisfied the hungry with good things and sent the rich away with empty hands. And how he has helped his servant Israel! He has not forgotten his promise to be merciful. For he promised our ancestors—Abraham and his children— to be merciful to them forever.”
(Luke 1:46-55, NLT)

"It's all right now!" God is here!

"He embraced his chosen child, Israel; He remembered and piled on the mercies, piled them high."


May your Christmas be marked with Joy, filled with Light, and celebrated with a new awareness of God's Love.

______________________________TFTD will return on January 2. Thanks for reading along this year. My prayer is to be used by God in these musings to encourage, to comfort, to provoke and that together we will grow up in Christ, living for the 'praise of His glory.' God bless you richly today.

Are you listening, really listening?

When you're feeling insecure, what do you do? Some of us talk, endlessly, as though our words were a protective shield. Some of us withdraw. Some of us act out, being a clown or showing off. Some of us work ourselves into an angry state and the resulting flow of adrenaline causes us to feel empowered. But few of us choose the best course of action - quiet evaluation, listening to learn.

Jesus took Peter, James, and John with Him to a divine appointment. On the top of the mountain, as they watched, He began to radiate a divine light - his clothing becoming dazzling white! It's true! Matthew, Mark, and Luke record this moment. Then, Moses, the great Law-giver and and Elijah, the Miracle Worker, appear and begin to converse with Jesus. At that moment of incredible wonder, what does good ole' Peter do? Yep, in his insecurity he does what he always does, impulse takes over and he starts to babble. "Let us build three shelters (alternate translation, memorials) here for you guys!" God responds to Peter this way - While he was going on like this, babbling, a light-radiant cloud enveloped them, and sounding from deep in the cloud a voice: “This is my Son, marked by my love, focus of my delight. Listen to him.” (Matthew 17:5, The Message)

Just a few days before that event, Peter had been rebuked for speaking without listening by Jesus, too. When the Lord was trying to explain that He must die for the sins of the world, Peter objected and Jesus' response was quick and harsh - "You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, and not from God’s.” (Matthew 16:23, NLT) How that must have stung! It wasn't until after he was filled with the Spirit that Peter learned to listen, really listen. Then, God took his boldness and made it a gift of leadership that He used to guide the Church through her first two decades of existence.

There is much in our world to cause us to feel insecure, isn't there? It isn't just the headlines from world news that makes me afraid. Aging scares me. Will my body betray me with a stroke, a heart attack, or Alzheimer's? The tenuous nature of human relationships frightens me, too. Will a trusted friend turn against me, breaking my heart? Knowing that every Sunday for the next 20-25 years I am required by my vocation as a Pastor to stand up and speak to a congregation with a word from God makes me feel insecure, too! What do you fear? What keeps you awake into the night? If we live in our fears, we will either become paralyzed or we will end up doing dumb, self-defeating things.

God has a better way. His advice for fearful, insecure people is this - "Listen! Let me lead."

We must stop trying to control every event. We have to refrain from trying to secure ourselves against every threat. And we need to do what Job did when he sensed God's Presence - put our hand over our mouth to staunch the flow of words so we will stop babbling out meaningless prayers that only reinforce our fears. Instead, we focus on Jesus! We listen to Him. The Bible teaches us to "Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!" (Hebrews 12:2-3, The Message)

Steady on, friend. That's the way. Listening, really listening, we gain the wisdom of God and face the future secure in the knowledge that the One who knows us best, loves us most, and that He is leading us all the way home.
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You're invited to a worship time on Christmas Eve at the Assembly.
At 7 pm, we will be gathering to sing, to listen, to worship, to wonder. I hope you will join us.

"There is no God" at least in our public schools.

Yesterday in Dover, PA, a federal judge named John E. Jones, ruled that Intelligent Design, which suggests an alternative to Darwinian evolution as the explanation for the origin of the species, cannot be taught in public schools. I don't know enough about the case to comment on the specifics, but press reports indicate that the judge went beyond simply deciding that ID was not to be taught. He called the decision of the school board to require a short paragraph about ID to be read to a 9th grade biology class, 'breath-taking inanity,' and noted that ID "is a religious view, a mere re-labeling of creationism, and not a scientific theory." Those who want a completely secular (free from reference to God) society rejoiced.

The judge's ruling got under my skin - for a few moments anyway. But he is reflecting the law created by the majority of Americans! The fact is that those school members who established the ID policy in Dover were out of step even with their own townsfolk. In elections held in November, the school board was swept out of office by Dover voters and replaced with people who do not support the idea of teaching ID. This time, anyway, the judge and the majority of people are on the same side. So, if we're going to angry, how being angry with ourselves for not doing a good enough job in making a compelling case for Christianity? Perhaps we need to ask ourselves if we have created the sense that faith in Jesus Christ is just a comforting sentiment that is marginal, unimportant, to 'real life in the real world?'

Believer, we have work to do! We must hold up the Light. The struggle is about Truth, about the place that God holds in our hearts and minds, but the place to 'win' is not in the courts, nor in the legislature. We each must become a prophet (a good word that means - God's spokesperson) in our own place. Those who marginalize God, must see Him, not just in our words but in our actions at work, in our neighborhood, and in our homes.

As Christians make the case for Christ -
- by the way we serve,
- by our consistent compassion,
- by speaking the Truth lovingly to the this society,
- by cultivating our minds so that our faith is more than saccharine sentiment,
- by making our churches into houses of worship where God is approached in Spirit and in Truth - God's Light will shine.

Let's face facts. A couple of paragraphs read at the beginning of 9th grade biology curriculum suggesting that Someone designed this world isn't exactly going to change lives, is it? This nod towards admitting to God's existence (and that is really what it is about as the judge noted) is not going to save our kids from themselves. Only a vigorous, robust Christianity that is engaged with this culture at every level will survive the assault of secularism.

We should not surprised at the hostility that comes our way over our love for Christ. He warned us it would be this way. Here's a word from the Word. Meditate on it. Don't just let it comfort you! Let it challenge you to BE different, to act differently, and to be a living witness to the reality of God before the skeptics.

Jesus said, “When the world hates you, remember it hated me before it hated you. The world would love you if you belonged to it, but you don’t. I chose you to come out of the world, and so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? ‘A servant is not greater than the master.’

Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to me, they would listen to you! The people of the world will hate you because you belong to me, for they don’t know God who sent me. They would not be guilty if I had not come and spoken to them. But now they have no excuse for their sin.

Anyone who hates me hates my Father, too. If I hadn’t done such miraculous signs among them that no one else could do, they would not be counted guilty. But as it is, they saw all that I did and yet hated both of us—me and my Father. This has fulfilled what the Scriptures said: ‘They hated me without cause.’

“But I will send you the Counselor—the Spirit of truth. He will come to you from the Father and will tell you all about me." (John 15:18-26, NLT)

Invite the Spirit of Truth to work in your mind and your heart. Invite Him to dig deep to root out sin and unfaithfulness. Pray to become a person of integrity, a person of true holiness, so that the Light will shine from you without shadows, drawing others to consider the way of Christ Jesus.

A New Man

Who is your hero? You're too old for heroes, you say? Let me ask it this way, then. Who do you admire? What has that person done that makes him/her a model for you? Hold that thought.

Jesus came into a world where the 'model man' was of Greek construct. About three centuries before Jesus Christ was born in a little town called Bethlehem, the Greek language had been introduced to that part of the world by Alexander, who even today is given the title - 'the great.' With the Greek language and armies came the culture. The philosophy and culture of the Greeks were admired, even by the Romans who, at the time of the birth of Christ, held the political power from Spain to India . Alexander, the Great, was an incredibly powerful leader whose armies conquered empires and nations. He left wide swaths of death and destruction wherever he went. His glory came from the buckets of blood he spilled. His legacy was sorrow and division. At his death, the huge empire he built in just a few years' time split into factions, led by the generals he had kept in subservience during his life. Never the less, at the time of Jesus' birth, Alexander was considered a man of glory, a measure for all men.

Alexander was not the first nor the last man of violence whose battlefield victories won acclaim. Even today, men of war win notice. Watch the History Channel. Who and what is recognized as history's laudable persons and events? Generals, kings, and tyrants and their wars of conquest are the marks by which we measure history. More often than not, the warrior's exploits that we remember are soon erased as new orders arise and new wars are fought by men and nations trying to ascend to the heights of influence. Those who bled and died for the ambitions of another are soon forgotten, even as the tyrants are immortalized.

Few seem to recognize that the Man of greatest influence, whose life and teaching still hold sway in the world after two thousand years was never a general, never won a battle, and never held a sword. Tragically many wars have been waged in His Name. Men and women have claimed the right to rule, sometimes in despicable manner, by His authority. Yet, He was and is the "Prince of Peace."

When He stood before a minor politico in a mock trial, He was asked, "Are you a King?" Pilate could not comprehend Jesus' answer! “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.” “You are a king, then!” said Pilate.
Jesus answered, “You are right in saying I am a king.
In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth.
Everyone on the side of truth listens to me." (John 18:36-37, NIV)

The King of Truth - He came not for earthly glory, nor to gain power for Himself or a nation, but to restore us to God, our Father and Creator.

Make Him your hero, your model! Throw away the need for conquest. Refuse the craving for power. When Self clamors to have its way, look to Jesus; "on whom our faith depends from start to finish. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterward. Now he is seated in the place of highest honor beside God’s throne in heaven." (Hebrews 12:2, NLT)
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A Solitary life

Nearly two thousand years ago in an obscure village, a child was born of a peasant woman.
He grew up in another village where He worked as a carpenter until he was thirty.
Then for three years He became an itinerant preacher.

This Man never went to college or seminary. He never wrote a book.
He never held a public office. He never had a family nor owned a home.
He never put His foot inside a big city nor traveled even 200 miles from His birthplace.
And though he never did any of the things that usually accompany greatness, throngs of people followed Him. He had no credentials but Himself.

While He was still young, the tide of public opinion turned against Him.
His followers ran away.
He was turned over to his enemies and went through the mockery of a trial.
He was sentenced to death on a cross between two thieves.
While He was dying, His executioners gambled for the only piece of property He had on earth--the simple coat He had worn.
His body was laid in a borrowed grave provided by a compassionate friend.

But three days later this Man arose from the dead--living proof that He was, as He had claimed, the Savior whom God had sent, the Incarnate Son of God.

Nineteen centuries have come and gone and today the risen Lord Jesus Christ is the central figure of the human race. On our calendars His birth divides history in two eras.
One day of every week is set aside in remembrance of Him.
And our two most important holidays celebrate His birth and resurrection.
On church steeples around the world His cross has become the symbol of victory over sin and death.

This one Man's life has furnished the theme for more songs, books, poems and paintings than any other person or event in history. Thousands of colleges, hospitals, orphanages and other institutions have been founded in honor of this One who gave His life for us.

All the armies that ever marched,
all the navies that ever sailed,
all the governments that ever sat,
all the kings that ever reigned have not changed the course of history as much as this
One Solitary Life. -- James Francis


Jerry D. Scott
www.WashingtonAG.com

T'is the Season for renewal

Would you like to walk through this 'holy day' Season and gain strength, feel renewed, and be deepened in faith? Will you be one of those who fails to take away the renewal of spirit that the Season seems to promise? Some people say, "I just can't wait for it all to be over so I can get back to life." Others say, "It takes me a month to recover from all this." I want us to be able to say, "what a wonderful time of year. I am ready to take on the challenges of the new year."

What kind of choices can make the difference?

First of all, make people your priority! Resist the pressures to rush, to be hurried, to 'get the program' completed. Many of us either host gatherings or be guests. Truly take time to enjoy the opportunity to be with friends and family. Focus less on perfect preparations of food and decor and more on having a heart that is prepared to receive others. A dinner cooked to perfection, a home full of beautiful holiday decor will be soon forgotten, but an evening of meaningful conversation and interaction creates a lasting memory that renews us again and again.

Second, remember to include worship! I think it is safe to say that most Americans will spend far more time in the mall than in church during the next seven days! We will worship at the altar of consumerism with far more fervency than we will worship our Lord Jesus. This imbalance in the use of our time and money reveals the identity of our true god. Keeping Christ in Christmas isn't just about putting up a crèche on the lawn at City Hall. It's about building an altar in our heart and honoring the One whose life is the cause for the celebration. Put a half hour a day aside for meditation, prayer, and to read the stories of Jesus' nativity from Matthew and Luke. Tell your family you will be going to church on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Arrive early and sit with a listening heart! "O come, let us adore Him... Christ, the Lord!"

Third, give yourself away! In Acts 20:35 (The Message) we read, "I have demonstrated to you how necessary it is to work on behalf of the weak and not exploit them. You’ll not likely go wrong here if you keep remembering that our Master said, ‘You’re far happier giving than getting.’ ” It's not just stuff that is given at Christmas. Give forgiveness. Give love. Give time. Give away your expectations and receive what these days bring your way.

Lastly, let encourage you to recover wonder! The children at church gather 'round me each Sunday in Advent with the request, "may I light the Advent candles?" Such a simple assignment is a coveted honor. Amazing, isn't it? But children have a great capacity for wonder, to appreciate the little things. Read the Christmas story and instead of asking, "How could this be?" let story speak to you about the depth of God's love. Watch the old film, "It's a Wonderful Life," and don't make fun of it! Instead, let it inspire you to make a difference in someone's life today. Let the sophisticates pretend to be bored by the holiday. Choose to be child-like (not childish!) in your wonder.With these choices, you will come to New Year's Day, with a renewed heart! Sure, you may be tired in body from staying up too late, going here and there, but you will have received Christ Jesus and the Holy Spirit. And, He brings life.

Here's a word from the Word to take with you as you begin this Christmas week-
"The Word became human and lived here on earth among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the only Son of the Father. ... We have all benefited from the rich blessings he brought to us—one gracious blessing after another." (John 1:14, 16, NLT)

Battle Fatigue

During WWII, the phrase 'battle fatigue' was coined to describe the emotional state of those soldiers who were mentally broken by the stresses of warfare. It would show up in different ways - loss of sight, hearing, paralysis. Excessive anxiety and irritability were often in evidence too. Soldiers suffering battle fatigue were usually not able to recover even though they were sent to rest and when they returned to their unit they generally could not fight effectively. Tours of duty for military personnel are not so long today and thus similar psychological symptoms are called, "Post-traumatic Stress," as they sometimes show up after the soldier has returned from the war.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the never-ending battle? You're not alone! The person who is committed to making a difference in the name of Christ Jesus - in her own life, in her extended family, and in her world - faces a daily struggle! The Bible points out that the godly man faces opposition on three fronts simultaneously. He must contend with 'the flesh,' the sinful nature within himself that resists the work of God. He must overcome 'the world,' the "evil in the machine," that turns good things like government into tools of oppression and evil. He must wrestle with the Devil's forces, those demons that work to frustrate God's plans and purposes.

Sounds ominous, doesn't it? It is! This is no imaginary war. It is real and those who are 'in Christ,' are front-line soldiers called to establish and defend the kingdom of Heaven. The more devoted a person is to the cause of Christ, the more intense the fight becomes. Martin Luther's famous hymn has this line: "this world with devil's filled, should threaten to undo us!" If we are focused on our own strength, if we try to live on our own terms, we may well become 'undone.' That hymn goes on to say, "we will not fear for God has willed, His Truth to triumph through us."

Peter speaks to the battle and how we can stand strong through it all. Meditate on these words from the Word today.

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Be self-controlled and alert.
Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." (1 Peter 5:6-10, NIV)

Did you note the way the truth unfolds?

First, be humble. God has no supermen in His army, none of us can discard our fellow soldiers, or go off to do our own thing IF we want to remain strong. The soldier who would stand in the face of the Enemy, must first kneel before God!

Second, consciously off-load the stress onto His shoulders. Jesus said, "I will never leave you, never forsake you."

Third, become aware of threats - internal and external. Don't be dumb!

Fourth, adopt a defensive posture from a secure place of faith!

And "God, (who has) called you to his eternal glory by means of Jesus Christ. After you have suffered a little while, ....will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation." (1 Peter 5:10, NLT)
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Make time to be quiet in His Presence. Breath in the renewal of spirit that comes by means of God's Holy Spirit. The hurry-up pace of life quickens even more around this time of year, doesn't it?
Tragically, if we don't take charge of our schedule, what should be a celebration of Light and Life, can become the occasion for more fatigue, deeper despair.I hope you will be in worship this Sunday.

Come and let the songs and prayers of God's people lift you up. And, God-willing, I will be taking a look at Luke 1, at the story of Zechariah, a priest who needed soul-renewal. See you at 10:15!

Passionately pursuing Christ

When I met Bev, now my wife of 30 years, I fell in love quickly. In the months that we dated, we lived about an hour apart. After I finished my work as the Youth Pastor of the church I was serving, I would drive up to see her, spend a few hours with her until 12:30 or 1 am and then drive home, only to get up and go to work at 6 am at a part-time job I had taken to help pay the bills! The thought of how much sleep I was losing, or how much time I was spending in my car, or even the hazard of falling asleep at the wheel - never crossed my mind! A 'reasonable' choice would have been to talk on the phone and to see each other on Saturday, but when does reason enter the picture when love is the subject?

What kind of relationship do we have with Jesus Christ? Is it a calculated, cerebral thing or a passionate love?

Peter passionately loved Jesus! That comes through in the Gospels. Consider the famed story told in Matthew's Gospel, the 14th chapter. The day started with a long teaching session involving several thousand people. As evening approached, Jesus told the men who traveled and worked with Him to feed the crowd. There was a problem - actually two problems - they had no money and no food! But Jesus told them to seat the people and prepare for dinner anyway and then He blessed five loaves of bread and a couple of fish with an incredible prayer and miraculously fed 5000 people dinner. Elated and exhausted, the men got into a small boat and headed home across the Sea of Galilee, a large inland lake actually. They ran into a stiff headwind that kept them from making much progress and a storm blew up that kicked up waves.

Matthew tells the story - "At about four o’clock in the morning, Jesus came toward them walking on the water. They were scared out of their wits. “A ghost!” they said, crying out in terror. But Jesus was quick to comfort them. “Courage, it’s me. Don’t be afraid.”
Peter, suddenly bold, said, “Master, if it’s really you, call me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come ahead.” Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!” Jesus didn’t hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand. Then he said, “Faint-heart, what got into you?” The two of them climbed into the boat, and the wind died down." (Matthew 14:25-32, The Message)

What was the source of Peter's 'sudden boldness' that led him to jump out of the boat at 3 in the morning on a stormy lake?
He was passionate about Jesus, loving the Lord in a way that went beyond his reason, beyond calculated benefits! He just wanted to do what Jesus was doing and that included taking a walk on the lake in the middle of night! Silly? Maybe. Reasonable? Obviously not. Necessary? No. But, oh what an experience. From those few moments, Peter gained trust, the knowledge that Jesus' hand would catch him when he was falling, and a story for the ages!

A passionate Christian is runs the risk of being regarded a fool. Ridicule will surely come her way as she prays for the impossible, gives time and resources she can't really afford to give, and lives for an eternity that many refuse to believe is real. A person who is passionate about anything is a easy target for critics. Why? Passion supersedes reason which we value so highly. Passion compels us to reach higher, to give, to go to the ends of the earth, to spend ourselves in a way that is incomprehensible to those who do not share that passion.

Peter's passion for Christ eventually led him to leave the safe and familiar home he enjoyed in Capernaum. He became Christianity's first leader, the rock of the church for her first three decades, and a martyr in his old age for the cause of Christ. He could have played it safe with his life - as so many of us do - and never known the joy of walking with Jesus - first on the lake, and then to the ends of the Roman Empire changing history and countless millions of lives. But, he didn't because he was a man with a passion for Jesus.

How do you love Him, friend?
Is is a tepid love, measured and weighed out on a cost/benefit basis?
Or is it a love that is all-consuming?

“Teacher, which command in God’s Law is the most important?”Jesus said, “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list." (Matthew 22:36-38, The Message)
_____________________________

Passion for Jesus

I'm calling out to You,
"There must something more
Some deeper place to find,
Some secret place to hide,
Where I've not gone before!"

Where my soul is satisfied,
and my sin is put to death;
and I can hear Your voice,
and Your purpose is my choice
as natural as a breath.

The Love I knew before,
When You first touched my life,
I need You to restore,
I want You to revive.

Could You place in my heart,
A passion for Jesus?
A hunger that seizes my passion for You?
My one desire, my greatest possession
My only confession,
my passion for You!

Author: Brian Houston

Christmas shopping?

Have you finished your Christmas shopping yet? If you're like a majority of Americans, even here just a week before the Day, you still have people on your gift list without a matching present! We approach our Christmas shopping from a variety of angles.

There is the CHEAP shopper. He is driven by one goal - buying something, anything, that satisfies the imperative for gift giving - while spending as little money or energy as possible. My one question to this person is - "why bother?" You have missed the meaning of Christmas entirely. Save yourself the effort because the person who receives your 'gift' will only be obligated to write an insincere 'thank you' note!

There is HURRIED shopper. With hummingbird-like rapidity, they dart from store to store, grabbing this and that and checking off the names on their list. Obligation, not love, is the primary drive behind their search.

There is the "PAY MY DEBTS" shopper. This person hopes that with one gift, usually that cost way too much, they can make up for their failures through the year. No gift can do this, and this shopper is sadly set up for disappointment all ready!

There is the "I'D SURE LIKE THAT" shopper who buys gifts he would like to receive for others! His gifts are often very nice, but don't 'fit.' Why? Because, at the heart, he's selfish. His gifts are not thoughtfully chosen because he is too in love with himself to be aware of what really going on outside of his skin.

And there is the "BECAUSE I LOVE YOU" shopper. Finally, we find the heart of Christmas! This person thinks carefully about the tastes, the needs, the personality of the person for whom he is getting a gift and, after a careful search, prepares a gift that he presents with no strings attached.

This is how God gave to us.
God so loved ____________________ (insert your name here)that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16, NIV)

His Gift was ....

• rich,
• prepared from eternity,
• given to settle my debts,
• based on my need, and
• shaped by His love for me!

In your gift-giving, make LOVE the reason.
Having trouble finding a gift for someone on your list?
Relax and think about who they are, what they need, and how you can express love in a language they'll understand. It will come to you!
Perhaps the gift will not be some thing. The best gifts are, like God's gift to us, a gift of ourselves.
____________________

Don't forget to offer your best gift to the One who is the Reason for the Season.Find time to worship, to serve, to give of yourself in His Name.

Giving the gift of life?

Recently the leaders in our church and I talked about 'outreach.' As we were discussing how to organize a part of our mission we considered whether the focus of our efforts should be primarily on preserving what exists or increasing the reach of our service to include more people. That discussion led me to ponder an even more basic question - 'why would anyone want to listen to what we say about Jesus?' I'd like to invite you to think about that question on a personal basis with me today.

Here's the way I shaped my thoughts - What would I say to a friend who is not a Believer that would cause him to want to become one?

I could present Jesus in terms of 'eternity.' When one of my brothers was about 5 years of age, he went through a stage where he asked everybody he met: "Are you going to Heaven or Hell?" His directness caused grown men to squirm but I don't think he made many converts! Since we believe that Jesus is the Way, we might frame the way we talk about Jesus in those ultimate terms, but I wonder about the effectiveness of that approach since most people are so busy with living life right now, that they aren't thinking much at all about eternity.

I could present Jesus in the context of 'church.' In this approach, the church's programs and services become the primary focus. "Come to my church" becomes the message. A person is recruited to 'join up' and become a part of a community that offers support, identity, and friendship. Church is important! The Bible teaches Believers that they must regularly gather with other Believers; to worship together, and to work with each other around common goals. However, this approach is limited in its appeal since most people aren't looking for another responsibility. 'Organized religion' is not widely respected either. And, in the end, going to church does not guarantee a person will come into a relationship with Jesus.

How about presenting Jesus as Jesus, making Him the focus? We are too easily convinced that the Good News about Jesus needs to be shaped to fit the needs of people, or that He must be packaged so He can be sold to the American consumer. Learning to connect Him to people's needs is an important skill. Learning how to talk about Him in terms that are comprehensible to those who are non-religious is valuable, too. In all that, we must keep Jesus Christ at the center of our presentation! Since we are in love with ourselves, we easily forget that we were made for Him, to know Him. Yes, He came to meet our greatest need, but the heart of Christianity is that we lose our lives in order to find Him! He is the Treasure!

He is the gift of life. When Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life and have it to the full," did He really mean that His purpose was just to help us to find a way to obtain the American dream? Of course not. He came to show us how to live with hope and purpose and meaning - which are discovered as we know and love Him.

John writes- "to all who believed him and accepted him, Jesus gave the right to become children of God.
They are reborn! This is not a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan—this rebirth comes from God. So the Word (Jesus Christ) became human and lived here on earth among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness.
And we have seen his glory, the glory of the only Son of the Father. John pointed him out to the people.
He shouted to the crowds, “This is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘Someone is coming who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before I did.’ " (John 1:12-15, NLT)

How I want to know Him. I want to be a "Jesus person." So, at the end of my musings on this, I come to this question: "Jerry, is your relationship with Jesus Christ so real, so relevant, so transformational that you become invisible to those who are seeking Him, hidden in His Radiance?" I want His beauty to shine out from my life. As we desire to present Him, let us remember that no amount of training, no technique, no carefully prepared presentation can replace the glory of Jesus as He becomes the focus of our words, our actions, and our devotion.

Would you pray this simple prayer with me today?

"Lord Jesus, You are my treasure.
I want to know You, not just about You.
Captivate me with your Radiance.
Cause me to forget my needs, my wants, myself.
Forgive me for turning you into a means of self-fulfillment!
Be my Life, my Truth, the Love of my life." Amen.

Shine brightly!

Driving home in the darkness last night, I took note of the lights. I saw a house where the decorating was a work of beauty, symmetrical white lights strung neatly, tastefully done, that showed an artist's eye and a craftsman's ability. There was an amazingly garish display that included a lighted inflatable Santa, a giant green Grinch, and a huge globe with fake snow blowing inside- all of this excess was surrounded by a jumble of colored light. It made me laugh - a joyful laugh at the range of 'taste' in our society. Apparently those folks love Wal-Mart's ideal of decorating for Christmas. And their zeal for joining in the celebration is admirable. It's just Christmas and it all makes me happy, somehow.

This Season has brought a lot of noise about the so-called 'war on Christmas.' We hear of schools that change the lyrics in Christmas songs to make them neutered holiday tunes. We read of large store chains eliminating references to Christmas in their 'holiday' advertising. TV's talking heads have made much of this, joined by pontificating preachers who point to the preponderance of the evidence as indicating that these United States are spiritually bankrupt.

"This little light of mine, I gonna let it shine." That's how I feel about whole deal. I am tired the 'red state, blue state' controversy, of the Christians who wear their offenses prominently on their sleeves. Is America in a spiritual crisis over Christmas? I do not really know. It really depends on where you look and how you read the signs. For every school wear an overly zealous administrator kills the singing of "Silent Night," there will be a thousand where it is sung. For every place that Christmas is 'x-ed' out by the marketing department for fear of turning off a few shopper's, there will be hundreds of signs that proclaim- "Merry Christmas!" in bold, bright colors. The whole idea of declaring war over the manger of the Prince of Peace strikes me as an absurdity in the extreme.

How about we just put up our lights, and not just on our houses? How about instead of getting ourselves worked up about the secularists who seem to hate the Holy Day, why not just go and do something wonderfully loving? Our little church gathered 193 shoeboxes full of little gifts and sent them off to Operation Christmas Child. It wasn't an earthshaking thing, but it let a little light shine. I've made it my personal mission for this month to wish everybody a "Merry Christmas" and a "God bless you" from the heart, just to let a little light shine.

Here's a word from the Word for you to ponder today- "God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. God blesses those who are persecuted because they live for God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. “God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too.

“You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor?Can you make it useful again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.
You are the light of the world—like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see. Don’t hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all." (Matthew 5:9-15, NLT)
______________________

This Little Light Of Mine

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Hide it under a bushel, no! I'm gonna let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel, no! I'm gonna let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel, no!, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Don't let Satan blow it out, I'm gonna let it shine.
Don't let Satan blow it out, I'm gonna let it shine.
Don't let Satan blow it out, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Let it shine till Jesus comes, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine tell Jesus comes, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine tell Jesus comes, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.


Author: Loes, Harry DixonCopyright: Public Domain

Praying with holy boldness!

A person of immature understandings recently said, "I don't pray much because I believe God has already decided what will happen." She were sincere, but had missed much of what the Bible teaches us about how God works. An authority no less great than Jesus Christ told us, "Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.”" (Luke 21:36, NIV) Yes, we must pray!

I hear other Christians talk about the Lord and listen to their prayers that reveal their terribly inadequate understanding of God's vast power and wisdom. They have no assurance that He is sufficient for their needs. We need to pray because in our prayers God's work is done and our lives are changed, but we need be desperate or afraid, for God is greater and even supplies us with the faith to pray.

A good pastor friend, who is of the Reformed persuasion, likes to remind me, good naturedly, of his convictions about the 'sovereignty' of God- that all things are governed and happen in the purposes of God. I remind him of human 'free will,' that our day to day decisions have real and lasting consequences, for which we will be held accountable. The Bible offers plenty of evidence that both ideas are true. How can that be since they seem to contradict each other? That is a debate that has occupied great minds for a long time, so I won't try to solve that riddle in these few lines.

My aim, in this TFTD is to encourage us to faith-filled and constant prayer that is focused on the sufficiency of Christ Jesus, the Lord.

Let me illustrate the tension of these ideas from a couple of representative passages of Scripture. In the book of Daniel, a king who has encountered the power of God says- I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever. His rule is everlasting, and his kingdom is eternal. All the people of the earth are nothing compared to him. He has the power to do as he pleases among the angels of heaven and with those who live on earth. No one can stop him or challenge him, saying, ‘What do you mean by doing these things?’" (Daniel 4:34-35, NLT) That is wonderfully true! God does what He pleases because of His omniscience and omnipotence. That is a comforting thought and gives those who trust in Him great assurance.

By contrast, we read these words in the book of Joshua, Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness... serve the LORD. But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve,...we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:14-15, NIV) James likewise cautions against blaming God or fate for choices that we make. "Remember, no one who wants to do wrong should ever say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else either. Temptation comes from the lure of our own evil desires." (James 1:13-14, NLT)

Wayne Grudem, a well-respected theologian, writes I affirm that God causes all things that happen, but that he does so in such a way that he somehow upholds our ability to make willing, responsible choices choices that have real and eternal results and for which we are held accountable. Exactly how God combines his providential control with our willing and significant choices, Scripture does not explain to us. But rather than deny one aspect or the other (simply because we cannot explain how both can be true), we should accept both in an attempt to be faithful to the teaching of all of Scripture. (http://www.seegod.org/god.htm)

Are you praying bold prayers that are an expression of your faith in God? OR,
When you pray, are you fearful and pleading, because you mistakenly think that your passion is the key to receiving an answer to prayer?

We must pray, but not with 'faith in faith.' We must pray with faith in God.

Such prayer is marked by confidence, and truly does change us and our world. So, "since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Hebrews 4:14-16, NIV)
___________________________

Let Your Glory Fall

Father of creation,
Unfold Your sov'reign plan.
Raise up a chosen generation
That will march through the land.
All of creation is longing
For Your unveiling of pow'r.
Would You release Your anointing?
Oh God, let this be the hour.

Ruler of the nations,
The world has yet to see
The full release of Your promise,
The church in victory.
Turn to us, Lord, and touch us;
Make us strong in Your might.
Overcome our weakness,
That we could stand up and fight.

Let Your kingdom come,
Let Your will be done.
Let us see on earth,
The glory of Your Son.


Author: Ruis, DavidCopyright: 1993 Mercy / Vineyard Publishing (Admin. by Music Services)

"Come, follow Me!"

When I was a little boy, my Dad took me to Wyoming, to remote areas far off of the roads, where we visited shepherds tending large flocks of sheep! Yes, it's true. There in the mountains near Buffalo, WY, were men who lived alone in little houses on wheels, caring for their sheep 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They were Basque immigrants, from an ancient culture in the Pyrenees Mountains on the border of Spain and France. Their people had a long tradition of being outstanding shepherds. These men, helped only by their amazing dogs, made certain that the sheep in their care were kept safe and provided with pasture. Their constant presence caused those sheep to respond even to their voice! I watched as a single shepherd called his flock, sent his dog to round up stragglers, and moved hundreds of sheep from place to place in open range. It is an amazing memory still vivid in my mind after 40 years time.

Jesus says to us, "Come, follow me!" He defines His relationship to us saying, "I am the Gate for the sheep. ... Anyone who goes through me will be cared for—will freely go in and out, and find pasture. ... I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of. “I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd puts the sheep before himself, sacrifices himself if necessary." (John 10:7-11, The Message) Go back and read that passage again.

Many voices call to us, inviting us to follow them. There are dictatorial voices that demand much of us, but return nothing, wanting only to selfishly take from us. There are deceptive voices that want to mis-lead us into destruction, their plans shaped by twisted purposes of evil. There are conflicting voices, a cacophony of noise that leaves us spinning in confusion if we try to follow them. But there is One Voice that invites us to - "Come, follow me. ... I am the Good Shepherd." Sheep, left alone on the open range, without a shepherd will come to a terrible end! Predators will kill them off, one by one. They will stay in one area, over-grazing the land, until they have exhausted their food supply. But, a well-shepherded flock, thrives.

"Come, follow me." Will you take Jesus up on His invitation? It's an invitation to adventure, to life that is purposeful and meaningful, and - best of all - to a relationship! He promises that if we follow Him, He will never leave us. He does not promise that we will never be attacked by wolves, go through violent storms, or experience difficult days! He says we won't face those challenges alone. "I'll be there," He says, "caring for you." Don't let the drive to 'do something for God" obscure the invitation to "know God!" Yes, as follow the Good Shepherd, there will be service we do for Him and in His Name, but relationship with Him, must precede the mission for Him.

Worship Him. Listen to Him. FOLLOW Him. And, you will 'have real and eternal life, more and better life than you ever dreamed.' That's the truth.
_________________________

The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.

Even when I walk through the dark valley of death,
I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.

You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies.
You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.

Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord forever." (Psalm 23, NLT)

A day to remember

Every generation has 'marker' days, days on which an event that changed the course of history occurred. My generation will always remember September 11, 2001 simply as "9/11" the day that terrorists brought their hatred to the United States - killing thousands. My grandparents' generation remember December 7, 1941 as "Pearl Harbor Day." This was the day that brought American public support around for entering World War 2 and war was declared a few days later. Tragically, the deaths of thousands of sailors could have been avoided IF the commanders of the Naval bases there on Hawaii had been vigilant, but they did not take the threat of Japanese hostility seriously. The common assumption was that the Japanese navy simply could not cross thousands of miles of open ocean to attack U.S. bases without being detected. But, they did; and that beautiful Sunday morning, in 1941, thousands died and our Pacific fleet was almost completely destroyed.

Amazingly, most marker days in history have to do with death and destruction, sorrow and loss! Christians are in the Season of Advent preparing to celebrate a marker day that is different, very different. Christmas (yes, I'm aware that 12/25 is not really the day of Jesus' birth, but rather a day chosen for the celebration!) is a marker day that is about LIFE! A devout old man named Simeon captures the importance of the event. He met Joseph and Mary at the Temple days after Jesus' birth and held the baby boy in his arms. The Holy Spirit revealed the identity of the infant to this old man who declared, “Lord, now I can die in peace! As you promised me, I have seen the Savior you have given to all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” (Luke 2:29-32, NLT)

The significance of the event is of such importance that even our Western calendar dating system is built around the birth of Jesus Christ! We live in 2005 Anno Domine (A.D.) which is a Latin phrase meaning, "year of our Lord." Those who might think that the birth of Jesus is just a day of importance to Christians, or that it is just a day of sentimental significance, need to be reminded that the birth of Jesus is the event that changed history. His teaching about the value of individual persons, about compassion, about God's gracious love form the basis of our Western culture! This fact is largely forgotten as our society becomes increasingly secular, blind to the impact that the eternal and spiritual has on the temporal world.

The passing of time blurs our grasp of facts, sometimes even erases our memory. We forget the events that caused the shape of current cultural, moral, political, and spiritual concepts and practices. The costs, often terrible and bloody, of radical change, are forgotten as subsequent generations enjoy the benefits that come from the sacrifices of those who went before them.

So, let me wrap up this TFTD with a two-fold appeal:

a. Remember Pearl Harbor Day, and those men and women who endured the terrible war that followed, out of which grew the present world order which has provided us with great freedom and prosperity.

b. Remember Christmas! Yes, remember, with joy, the baby in the Manger, the song of the angels, the visit of the Magi. Take stock of the hope and peace that you know as result of knowing Jesus as your Savior. But, remember, too, the wide ranging impact that His Life has had on the world in which we live.
_____________________________________

"Father, thank you for sending Light into a dark world.
Help me to keep the Light blazing.
Don't let me forget-
the love of Jesus who came to earth,
at great cost to Himself.
Don't let me forget the sacrifice of those who kept the faith alive
through hundreds of years,
so I could know of Your love today.

As I remember your Gift, let me receive Him anew,
and change me from the inside out,
from sinner to saint,
by the power of the Spirit.
Then, make me a person of transformation,
who make a difference...
to my friends, my family; yes, Lord,
to the world of which I am such a small part.
In the Name of the Lord Jesus, I pray.
Amen."

VNP or VEP?

Joy in serving?

Groundhog Day, a 1993 comedy, is a parable. Seen it? Bill Murray plays the role of Phil Connors, a TV reporter who finds himself in a time loop, reliving Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney, PA, over and over again. At first Phil responds with frustration to being trapped. Then, he decides to live selfishly, eating all he wants, stealing, and taking advantage of women. He selfishness leads him into suicidal despair! Finally, he realizes that since he knows exactly what is going to happen in this town on the day he lives again and again, he can step in and serve, helping to change lives. He becomes a hero by serving others, accidentally finding joy in a situation that he would not had chosen for himself.

Fantasy? Of course, but sometimes life feels like an endless loop, doesn't it? We awaken to meet the same responsibilities, to go through the same chores, in the same ritual - day after day. Many of us respond to life in much the same way as Phil Connors! We grumble and complain about our place, our position, and our possessions. We look for diversions that are expressions of selfishness, believing we will find happiness in a new toy, an escape to some vacation spot. Do we? Yes, there is a temporary emotional lift, but does it last? Apparently not! Depression is America's most common mental health issue. On average, we're richer, more traveled, and more well fed than any previous generation but it doesn't seem to me that we are happier.

Here's God's wisdom. Joy is found in finding our God-given purpose and fulfilling that calling faithfully, day by day. Purpose, not indulgence, is the path to satisfaction, because satisfaction comes from sensing God's approval. That's the Jesus model! When some of the men who lived with him, learning from him, asked for privileged positions in the kingdom of God which they thought he was about to establish, he reminded them of the true nature of his calling -- "For even I, the Son of Man, came here not to be served but to serve others, and to give my life as a ransom for many.”" (Matthew 20:28, NLT) His purpose was to give away his life, on the cross. And why did he do it? Hebrews says, "for the joy that was set before Him... he endured the cross!"

People live on a scale that has as its ends - VNP's (Very Needy People) who drain energy and life from others and VEP's (Very Encouraging People) who pour energy into others. Depending on the circumstances in which we find ourselves from time to time, we slide toward one end of the scale or the other. At times, when we're knocked off our feet by tragedy or storms, we really do need to be carried by others ! However, I find that the cluster tends to be larger toward the VNP end of the scale all of the time. Why? Because our sinful nature leads to self-centeredness.

"Feed me! Take care of me! Help me! Notice me!"- is the infantile cry of many who continue to live as VNP's though they should have long ago become helpers, mature, and capable of drawing on the resources of the Holy Spirit for themselves. We need to grow up in Christ. After receiving, by faith, the new life of the Spirit, we need to learn the principles of the Word. As mature Christians who have accepted the Spirit's work that heals our hurts and makes us wise, we begin to be VEP's that pour life into others, that bring light to dark places. Believe it or not, that kind of service is the way of joy!

During this Season of Advent, make it your prayer that God will help you to live on the VEP end of the scale! Ask the Holy Spirit to make you aware of the opportunities to make a difference that exist around you. Prayerfully, overthrow self. When you're tempted to tear down, to criticize, to whine, or to demand that somebody comfort you and meet your need, choose to be mature. Serve, not dutifully, but joyfully! Keep a journal and then let me know how you're feeling about life right after January 1. I know it works - it's the Jesus model for a life of joy!

Peace on earth

I long for peace; not peace merely expressed as in the absence of conflict, but the peace that is described by the Hebrew word, "shalom." Shalom, translated most often as 'peace,' has a richer meaning including wholeness, completeness, prosperity, settledness of mind and heart! When the Hebrew Scripture promises us a "Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9.6) - the promise is about more than a Man who will blow the whistle and make the noise stop for a while! Jesus Christ is the One who is promised to bring us 'shalom.'

What is it about humans that makes us so 'un-peaceful?' Conflict is everywhere. Nations war. Families feud. Spouses battle. Sibling spar. Even we Christians, who claim to be led by the Peace-maker, fight frightfully for foolish frivolities! Congregations are destroyed by wars of words over the tempo of the music used in worship, the color of the carpet, and such matters of eternal importance. Relationships that are supposed an expression of the bond of the Spirit die because of a moment of hasty words leading to hurt feelings.

It is the lack of internal peace that is most painful, and the cause of most of our external conflicts as well. When a man has not anchored his soul in Christ, when he has not answered, in Him, the question of why he exists and for what purpose he walks the face of the earth, living in peace is an impossible dream! This person is constantly evaluating his accomplishments, the amount of his possessions, his position in the pecking order against those of his neighbors. The inevitable result of this insecurity is envy and jealousy and from that, says James, comes 'every evil work!' (James 3.16)

Isaiah writes, "For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. And the government will rest on his shoulders. These will be his royal titles: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His ever expanding, peaceful government will never end. He will rule forever with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David. The passionate commitment of the Lord Almighty will guarantee this!" (Isaiah 9:6-7, NLT) What a glorious promise! But before we apply it to the nations, we need to apply to our heart!

The Messiah, God's Messenger of Peace, came to be our 'shalom.' He came to bridge the gap between the Father and us, restoring us from the dis-inherited state into which our disobedience has sold us. He came to establish the rule of the Spirit, our Mighty God, so that we would not continue as slaves of sin. He came to be our Counselor, so we could know how to live wisely and purposefully, with insight to discern the way of Truth! Yes, He is our Peace.

Are you conflicted today?
Do you want more -- respect, things, possessions, power, comfort, pleasure, control -- because you think that such things will finally let you feel 'at rest?'
Dear friend, that is a mirage! If you should get that desire, the shimmering waters that promise refreshing would still be on the horizon.

Peace, true settledness and wholeness, comes through Jesus Christ. "Fall on your knees, Oh hear the angel voices." Yes, they chanted this birth announcement from the skies over Bethlehem - “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14, NIV)
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O Holy night, the stars are brightly shining
It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
Till He appeared and the soul felt His worth
A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn

Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine! O night when Christ was born!
O night divine! O night, O night divine!

Truly he taught us to love one another
His law is love and His gospel is peace
Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother
And in His name all oppression shall cease
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we
Let all within us praise His holy name

Fall on your knees!
Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine!
O night when Christ was born!
O night divine! O night, O night divine!

There is room for You!

Those 'personalized' letters that come from some far-off credit card company that open with 'Dear Jerry,' as though they came from a friend, make me laugh out loud. The marketers that work to create the illusion of personalization recognize a real need that exists in our world- to be known and accepted. They know that most of us are left empty by the impersonal nature of our hurry-up world. We want to be 'connected' to others. So, they create fake 'personalized' letters that appeal to that hunger.

Yesterday, I went to the deli where I stop a couple of morning during the week to get a cup of coffee and where I pick up lunch every now and then. The man who owns that deli always greets me with a smile. When I stepped up to the counter to order a sandwich, before I could say anything, he said, "It will be a 'Slam,' no tomato, with mayo, right?" He knew a little part of my preferences and I appreciated his effort to remember! It feels good when someone remembers my name. I'll admit it. No, it's not because I'm egotistical, it's just that I want to feel human, not like a machine.

When the Son of God was born, He came to a world that didn't recognize Him. Joseph and his very pregnant wife arrived in Bethlehem to find themselves on the outside, their needs unmet. According to Luke, they went to settle down in the place where the animals were kept 'because there was no room for them in the inn.' (2.7) John says, "He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him." (John 1:10-11, NIV)

Why didn't people recognize Mary's pregnancy and make room for her and for her baby?
Why did Jesus live among people who talked much about their desire for God's Deliverer, the Messiah, but yet did not recognize Him?

Most likely He went unrecognized for the same reasons that we fail to 'know' the people that surround us. Often, it isn't open hostility or intentional disregard. We just get pre-occupied with life, busy with our 'stuff,' intent on meeting our own agenda, don't we?

One of the greatest gifts we can give to those around us is the gift of warmth, compassion - of being loving. That sounds so simple, doesn't it?

Yet, we fail at it so often. I think I know, at least partially, why. We fail at love for others because we fail to love God! When we make it a priority to love God, to carve out time from our schedules to pray, to meditate, to be in His Presence - His love settles over us, bringing a serenity to our heart and mind. From that centeredness, that serenity, comes a sense of purposefulness. Instead of living frantically, rushing around trying to become 'somebody,' trying to secure our place in the world, worrying about having enough; we live in the care of the Father who knows our needs before we even ask Him about them! We gain a sense that He knows our name! We are not alone. We are no longer insecure in an impersonal world. We are God's sons and daughters. Loved, we become more loving.

Don't let this Season of Celebration of God's love gift be robbed of the most important part - making room for God, and for others! For what good it is if our house is wonderfully decorated, if the gifts are beautifully wrapped, if the dinner is astonishingly delicious - but our life is full of stress and confusion as a result of all our 'busy-ness?'

Love God! Focus on Jesus, making room in your life, your heart, for Him. Then, as you experience His love, go love Him. How?
He said, "Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me." (Matthew 25:40, The Message)

That's right - we make room for Jesus when we make room in our hearts for those around us!
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God's Light

Yesterday, I was temporarily overwhelmed by human need. Everywhere I looked there were challenges, disappointments, and sins. The weight of it pressed on me as though a heavy burden was laid on my shoulders. As I conducted a Bible Study in a jail, I saw men and women with need, many of them slaves to drugs and/or alcohol. Most of those at that table have lived in a cycle of brokenness that stretches back for generations! The police called me asking for the church to assist a homeless man who had spent the night on the street in the cold rain. He was miserable, soaked to the skin, stinking, and without hope. That was just the local stuff!

The news media brought me plenty of reasons to be filled with despair! Terrorism, despite our best and expensive efforts, continues to be a potent threat in much of the world. Militant Islam is on the march. American soldiers are still on alert in Iraq, facing a shadowy foe that attacks from nowhere and fades back into the general population. It's been a year of terrible disasters that are still causing misery in various parts of the globe - the tsunami that devastated the Pacific region just after Christmas last year, the storms that raged across the Southeast United States leaving a major city in ruins and thousands of Americans living in third world conditions, the earthquakes that killed tens of thousands in Pakistan and destroyed an entire region's infrastructure.

"OK, OK, enough of that," you say, and I agree! From where comes hope?

Another man was wrestling with disappointment. His fiancé was pregnant and he knew that he wasn't the father! Into the darkness of that man's broken dreams, an angel spoke of hope. “Joseph, son of David,” the angel said, “do not be afraid to go ahead with your marriage to Mary. For the child within her has been conceived by the Holy Spirit. And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20-21, NLT) The angel urges that man to look past his problem to God's answer! Joseph was drawn into God's great plan to bring a Light to the World. By faith he became part of that plan, and went ahead with his marriage to Mary and extending the security of his home and love to the baby who would change history by his life.

John opens his Gospel with the declaration - "What came into existence was Life, and the Life was Light to live by. The Life-Light blazed out of the darkness; the darkness couldn’t put it out." (John 1:4-5, The Message) There is HOPE for those who look to the Light.

The solution to human need begins with the transformation of the heart. That transformation is the result of a supernatural intervention- God stepped into the world, born the son of a virgin mother, to bring us Light, so that we might see our way back to our Father, to life, and to Heaven. "Jesus," the name means "God saves!" Christmas is about hope for a hopeless world. It's not a temporary lift that comes from celebrations and decorations. It about the possibility of real and lasting change for those who will look to the Light!

It begins with you and me, individually, responding to the Spirit's invitation. That weight I felt in my soul yesterday was actually God's invitation to fall to my knees and look up, past my insufficiency, to Him. I cannot change even my own life by my best efforts, so what would lead me to conclude that I could change my world? But, Jesus, the Savior, makes me a child of God, a son filled with Heaven's hope, and resources me to meet the needs that come my way. If you're beset by need, overwhelmed by life's challenges, look to the Light! Then, together, you and I and millions of others who are Light-bearers will bring the blazing brightness of His light to the darkness.

John says,
The Word became flesh and blood,
and moved into the neighborhood.
We saw the glory with our own eyes,
the one-of-a-kind glory,
like Father, like Son,
Generous inside and out,
true from start to finish.

1:14-15 The Message

Let the Light shine!

"I see," Oh, really?

Minkaye is a man who lived his entire life in the Amazonian jungle. Most of his life he lived just as his ancestors lived for a thousand years, with little awareness of the greater world. Then, the missionaries who lived with his people invited him to go with them to visit the United States. His attempts to tell his wife what he experienced are hilarious! He told her that the 'foreigners' are very fat because they don't hunt or plant gardens, they just sit around a lot. She scoffed, "how do they eat?" He told her that there are great food houses where people go and take piles of food in a wagon to a girl near the door who "pretends not to look at them for a while, then she looks up and smiles." "Then," Minkaye reported, "people give her a little card which she looks at and then she gives it right back and they take the food home." Interesting description of the supermarket and check out procedure, isn't it? He told her that he 'saw it very well,' meaning that he really took it in and enjoyed it. But Minkaye didn't really "see" it because he lacked the information required to interpret what he was seeing with his eyes. (from the DVD, Beyond the Gates of Splendor)

You and I can be like Minkaye when it comes to spiritual matters. As creatures of this earth, we are natural ignorant of the ways of the spiritual realm and yet we think that we understand what we see, but apart from the enlightenment that comes from the Spirit of God, we don't really 'get it!' It is possible to waste lots of resources and be frustrated in our attempts to correct problems that have deep spiritual causes with purely natural methods. Evil is active around us, trying to destroy lives! There is plenty of outward evidence of it. Hatred, racism, greed, and lust are just a few symptoms. How do we attempt to change those things in ourselves, in others? If we do not see the spiritual roots that lie beyond our ability to see with natural eyes we will surely think providing information or writing more stringent laws will be the remedies.

Then, too, a person who sees life only with his natural eyes will not grasp the joy of true worship of the living God, nor will he appreciate the richness that is found in knowing Jesus as Friend and Lord. He will believe that 'real life' can be discovered in wealth and/or pleasure. But, in truth, because we are spiritual beings, designed to know and love God, an inner emptiness will remain even when there is superficial success.

Here's the challenge for us, that we maintain 20/20 spiritual vision! It is possible to catch a glimpse of God's work and ways and then to slide back into seeing only with natural eyes. Many Christians and churches are ineffective and powerless as agents of transformation precisely for that reason. They are trying to spiritual work with natural methods and means.

Our prayer needs to be - "Lord, open our eyes! Let us see and understand." Here's a word from the Word. Before you read it, humbly ask the Holy Spirit to make the meaning plain.

"... the wisdom we speak of is the secret wisdom of God, which was hidden in former times, though he made it for our benefit before the world began....

That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.”

But we know these things because God has revealed them to us by his Spirit, and his Spirit searches out everything and shows us even God’s deep secrets. No one can know what anyone else is really thinking except that person alone, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit. And God has actually given us his Spirit (not the world’s spirit) so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us." (1 Corinthians 2:7-12, NLT)

Pray for insight! Let God reveal what cannot be grasped by natural means alone - both in terms of human needs and Divine solutions.
And then, as He enlightens you, you will live in true wisdom: a mature, spiritual person who really does "see it well."
_____________________

Open Our Eyes

Open our eyes, Lord,
We want to see Jesus,
To reach out and touch Him,
And say that we love Him.
Open our ears, Lord,
And help us to listen.
Open our eyes, Lord,
We want to see Jesus.

Author: Cull, Bob
Copyright: 1976 Maranatha! Music (Admin. by The Copyright Company)

A worthy prince?

It is the Season called Advent, a time of preparation for Christ's coming as our King. Yesterday I wrote about preparation. The question - does my life show honor for Him, preparedness for His coming - has stayed with me. We love that phrase that says we're "King's Kids." You know what? We are! So we need to start acting like princes and princesses! There is a certain obligation that goes with belonging to the King's family and bearing His name in this world. In this Advent season. one way to honor the King is to develop a sensitive conscience that allows the Spirit to call us to greater devotion, to a more consistent holiness, in every area of our lives.

In last month's issue of Christianity Today, David Gushee wrote a most compelling article that touches on this subject. I'd recommend a careful reading of it to each of my readers. Online you can find the article at http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2005/011/27.88.html. In that essay, Gushee uses the phrase 'moral sloppiness' to describe the disarray in the lives of many who call themselves Christians.

We modern evangelical Christians are so terrified of sliding back into the legalistic traditions of a generation past that it seems many of us have lost the ability to call sins by their names! With a broad brush of 'grace' we cover even the most flagrant failures. In the the guise of love, we challenge no one, not even ourselves, to make the hard choices that being a genuine Christ-follower require. The result is a pseudo-religious experience that demands nothing from us but some sentiments expressed at appropriate moments.

"Jerry, that awfully harsh, isn't it? Do you want to turn the faith into a set of laws?" No way! I would never be an advocate for going back to a time when we judged the sincerity of another's Christian faith based on his choice of a refreshing beverage on a hot summer day, the length of her skirt, the kind of music that he loved, or whether she smoked cigarettes! Many of those unwritten rules of 'Christian' conduct were so arbitrary that they were even silly. But, when we swept them away in the name of God's grace, many of us went way too far and we lost the very Biblical concept of being God's holy people, who live in distinct ways that are worthy of our Savior and King.

For example, I believe we need to be able to exercise discipline with that Believer who will not honor his marriage vows as he chases skirts at work.
Then, too, the gossip who tears up the church with stories that are born in a fertile imagination should not get a pass because 'that's just the way she is.'
And, our teens should be taught that sex is really a gift of God and that while our culture says, 'just do it' albeit safely. A real Christian knows that sex has a component of sacredness and God put it into the loving context of marriage for very, very good reasons.

A true Christian will have a different set of values about Money. Greed is so common among Christians most of us see no moral problem with craving more, spending more, running up our debt load 'as long as we meet the minimum monthly payment.' One twisted form of American Christianity even regards conspicuous materialism as a sign of God's blessings. Jesus taught us that we don't own the stuff we care for, or the money in our bank account. We're managers of God's stuff and will give account to the Owner someday. Sobering thought, isn't it? Of course I realize that it's so easy to become legalistic, to create some arbitrary $ amount that is 'too much.' It would be a mockery of the Bible's stewardship principles to argue a Christian can only build a house of certain size or drive a Ford, but not a Lincoln! But, how about having an accountability partner with whom you pray and consult before making a major purchase, someone who will help you check motives? That's the stuff of REAL Christianity, isn't it?

Now that I'm on a roll, I'll just go ahead and jump off the cliff and write about -- church attendance. This year Christmas falls on Sunday and I've already braced myself that the majority of the people in our church will choose family and home over honoring the Lord and His Body by gathering to worship that morning. But it's not just Christmas Sunday, either. On any given Lord's Day, only a little more than one half of the people who call the Assembly their church home are actually there! We excuse this self indulgence by reminding ourselves that going to church doesn't make us a Christian, which is true enough. But, don't we show what we value by the way we divide our time? Are birthday parties, football games, or fixing up our house really the equal of corporate worship? IF we love the Lord, we will desire to be in the company of others who love Him, praising Him and hearing His Word. And... by the way, parent... if you want your child to grow up to put a high priority on serving God, one of the ways you teach them what's important is how you use your Sundays! It's a very visible, tangible demonstration of discipline, commitment, and dedication. Argue with me if you will, but it's hard to tell your child -- "Jesus is first, our Lord" -- as you're driving past the church half the Sundays of the year on your way to a family gathering, a sporting event, or while you lay in your bed "because it's been such a tough week, God will surely understand."

In the book of the Revelation of Jesus we are urged by the King- "Up on your feet! Take a deep breath! Maybe there’s life in you yet. But I wouldn’t know it by looking at your busywork; nothing of God’s work has been completed. Your condition is desperate. Think of the gift you once had in your hands, the Message you heard with your ears—grasp it again and turn back to God. “If you pull the covers back over your head and sleep on, oblivious to God, I’ll return when you least expect it, break into your life like a thief in the night.

Here's a promise for those who walk worthy! -- “You still have a few Christians in Sardis who haven’t ruined themselves wallowing in the muck of the world’s ways. They’ll walk with me on parade! They’ve proved their worth! “Conquerors will march in the victory parade, their names indelible in the Book of Life. I’ll lead them up and present them by name to my Father and his Angels." (Revelation 3:2-5, The Message)

Gushee's conclusion is worthy of consideration:
"Christianity is more than an event, an experience, or a set of beliefs. It is a way of life characterized by moral seriousness and the quest for holiness."

Are you living worthy of your relationship to the King? If not, repentance is in order. And then, watch out for shallow legalism! Cultivate deep intimacy with God, from which comes authentic holiness, which is truly beautiful - in His sight, and before our world. I pray that Jesus is King of my sexuality, my possessions, my leisure time, my work habits, my thoughts, my words, my plans and goals.... so that when people spend time with me, they will say, "you certainly have a great Father, and it's obvious you love Him!"
__________________________

PS - I didn't write this specifically for you, or for any one of the other couple of hundreds of people who read TFTD on a daily basis. Please do not feel that you need to write to me with an explanation about why you weren't in church last week. This TFTD was born out of my own reflection on ways that I express my devotion to the Lord Jesus, my own desire to live in a way that is worthy of my position as a child of God. I hope you'll read it that way, too. Our Christianity is never lived, ultimately, for our Pastor, our family, or our friends. It is lived for Christ, the King. Love Him.

Preparations made?

When a very important person (VIP) is coming to your town, there are preparations made. The streets are cleaned, bright banners are hung, and high school bands are tuned up so that that person is welcomed in a manner appropriate to his status! If that VIP is the President of the United States of America the preparations are even more extensive because of security concerns. I've read that even the manhole covers in the street are welded shut and the mailboxes removed along his parade route. Imagine that.

Christians just entered the season of Advent, a time of preparation. Four weeks before Christmas, the church calendar calls us to renewed focus on the great promise of our King's return. As He came once, He will come again. Isn't that wonderful promise? You haven't really thought about it? Many of us do not! We are busy with our lives: working to meet deadlines, keep things in order, make the wheels of progress turn. It is good to be productive, but... we must not forget our devotion to the most important Person so that all the other things are kept in their proper place in our list of priorities.

The ancient Church decreed that Christians had a holy obligation to attend worship services on each of the 4 Sundays before Christmas. The intent of this rule was that this would prepare Christians to begin the new year with a renewed devotion to Christ. Of course, the good intent of such a regulation was soon lost and so as we observe Advent we set aside those kinds of rules. But I hope we keep the intention! My prayer is that the carols playing in public places, the decorations that fill our homes, offices, and streets, and even the excesses of commercialism will be turned to good purpose. Make them a reminder of your devotion to your King! And consciously connect the Coming of Jesus, the Baby of Bethlehem with the promise of the Coming of the Lord of Glory!

Zechariah proclaims - "Rejoice greatly, O people of Zion! Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet he is humble, riding on a donkey—even on a donkey’s colt. I will remove the battle chariots from Israel and the warhorses from Jerusalem, and I will destroy all the weapons used in battle. Your king will bring peace to the nations. His realm will stretch from sea to sea and from the Euphrates River to the ends of the earth. Because of the covenant I made with you, sealed with blood, I will free your prisoners from death in a waterless dungeon." (9:9-11, NLT)

I don't pretend to understand all the intricacies of End Time prophecy. I am not all that caught up in theories of Rapture and Tribulation, a la - the Left Behind series. But I live in the hope of the King's return! When storms sweep across the earth, when earthquakes shatter the nations, when tsunamis roar ashore, when the rumble of war fills the news, when threats of pandemics are announced - I weep for those who suffer, but I find comfort in the promise that the King will restore this broken world. When sin raises its ugly presence in my life, reminding me of my fallen nature and my tendency to fail my Lord, sadness fills my heart for I have failed my Savior, but I rejoice that He is the King- even of my heart - and will free me, and all who await His coming, from this body of death someday.

Once, when I did not understand the magnificence of His grace, the return of the King struck terror in my heart. I was fearful that He would come and find me unprepared. Now I know the wonder of His sufficient grace, the power of His Spirit and so this phrase - The King is coming! - is my hope. I am drawn to live a prepared life, not so that I will be left behind, but so that I will welcome Him in a manner appropriate to His majesty!

It is Advent- the time of preparation. Take the call of the Psalm with you today and let each 'Christmas' decoration or song cause you to renew your preparation to welcome the King of Glory....

"Lift up your heads, O you gates!
And be lifted up, you everlasting doors!
And the King of glory shall come in.
Who is this King of glory?
The Lord strong and mighty,
The Lord mighty in battle.

Lift up your heads, O you gates!
Lift up, you everlasting doors! A
nd the King of glory shall come in.
Who is this King of glory?
The Lord of hosts,
He is the King of glory." (Psalm 24:7-10, NKJV)

Thank you, Lord

Do you feel entitled, that is, having the feeling that something is your right, that it is owed to you? The entitlement mentality creeps up on us stealthily and becomes an ugly blot of darkness in us. When we don't get what we feel that we are entitled to receive, we become miserable.
"The government owes me that check."
"I deserve to be paid better than I am by that stingy boss."
"My kids owe me some gratitude after all I gave up to raise them." And on the list goes....

Many is the marriage that suffers under the weight of entitlement, for example. Each of us brings certain expectations into our marriage- that our spouse will always be supportive, that our spouse will be warmly affectionate, that he will always remember to be romantic and thoughtful. Those are not bad things, are they? But if they are demanded, if no thanks is expressed to our spouse when she meets our expectation, something wonderful is lost in the relationship! The truth is that her kindness, his thoughtfulness - while admirable - are a gift and as such, should be appreciated.

Do you believe that God owes you - blessings, healing, salvation, peace, joy? Many Christians do! They twist God's rich and wonderful promises into entitlement contracts and their prayers are more like legal briefs that present demands for actions than conversations with a Friend. These Believers turn faith into a 'gimme' system that says, "God, you promised; now, pay up!" How tragic, how misguided. Our Father in Heaven loves to bless and He does, but He owes you and me NOTHING. His gifts are based in grace, not merit.

One day Jesus was traveling and came upon ten men who suffered one of the worst fates in that time. They were lepers. When leprosy became evident on a person's skin, he was immediately separated from the community, as a means of keeping the spread of the disease to a minimum. No more living in his home, no more meals with his family, none of life's pleasures were available. Instead, the wretch lived as a beggar outside of town, usually near the dump from which he scavenged the scraps that kept him alive! When the ten lepers realized who was approaching, they yelled - "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" He looked at them and said, “Go show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, their leprosy disappeared. Luke 17:14 (NLT) Imagine their joy when they saw their skin clearing, all evidence of their leprous condition gone, given the desperate situation that they lived in because of it! Now, here's the part of the story that I want to emphasize today. "One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, “Praise God, I’m healed!” He fell face down on the ground at Jesus’ feet, thanking him for what he had done. This man was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, “Didn’t I heal ten men? Where are the other nine?" (Luke 17:15-17, NLT)

If we think that we are entitled to the blessing of God, we will not even think of thankfulness! Instead, we'll simply believe that God paid up, made good on the deal. The downside of that line of thinking is that when things go badly, when life falls apart, we will beat ourselves up wondering what we did that brought such grief on our heads. Mercy is God's method. The Psalmist reminds us - "He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust." (Psalm 103:9-14, NIV)

Are you grateful today?
Does thankfulness overflow from you?
Or is God asking, "where is the gratitude, where is the recognition of My mercy?"

Let's not be AWOL when it comes to returning thanks. In this season of Thanksgiving, check your heart for areas where entitlement has taken up residence. Get rid of it and realize, anew, the gifts of kindness and mercy that come your way. Then, liberally give thanks - to God, to friends, to family.
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There will be a Testimony and Thanksgiving service, celebrated with Communion, at the Assembly tonight at 7. You're invited.

TFTD will be back in your inbox next Monday - HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
and -- Thanks for reading along day by day. I do count it a privilege to be invited into your life via TFTD!