There was time in my life when I worried a lot about the structure of my prayers. I read many books on praying looking for a method that 'worked.' Note that word for it was the operative one about prayer in my understanding. Prayer was less a talk with a friend and more a kind of business transaction, a negotiation with Heaven, that - if done right - would produce the desired result. What an inadequate, immature concept. As I grew in Christ, I began to simply talk with Jesus - much as I would talk with any friend. Now, some of my prayers are long earnest conversations, and some are more like short 'emails' of the moment. Paradoxically, the less obsessed I am about 'making something happen,' the more I see God at work in my life and in the world around me!
Now I have some of my best talks with Jesus at 3 am! They aren't coherent, neatly formed, and logically presented prayers. When I awaken at that hour with my head full of concerns for the people I lead and love and questions about how to lead the church to be the Body He desires- "How should I address that situation? What can I do for that one in need? Which way should we go?" - in the darkness, I just begin to talk with Jesus. The conversation meanders along the stream of consciousness in my mind, much like a chat with a friend over a cup of coffee. And, I've got to tell you that I find such rest in those early morning conversations.
Yesterday, as I drove to the hospital to visit a friend in the ER who was waiting for a diagnosis that included some serious possibilities, I just kept repeating, "Oh, Jesus!" It was a sigh from my soul, a nearly wordless expression of my need, my longing for His touch! I knew that I didn't have to prepare a news release for Heaven, nor did I have to argue with Him all the reasons He needed to do this or that. I just wanted my Friend in Heaven to be near to my friend on earth, to hold her hand, just like He holds mine. "Oh, Jesus," seemed a fittingly simple expression from my heart!
When Jesus taught about prayer, He was so direct, so clear, about the need to keep it simple. I wonder why I fell into the foolishness of formulaic prayer for so long? Why didn't I accept His invitation to a living conversation? Maybe it was just being steeped in the religion of Christianity that made me ignorant to the mystical relationship to which He invited me. Take a look at His words.
“The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They’re full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God.
Don’t fall for that nonsense. This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need. With a God like this loving you, you can pray very simply.
Like this:
Our Father in heaven, Reveal who you are.
Set the world right; Do what’s best— as above, so below.
Keep us alive with three square meals.
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil.
You’re in charge! You can do anything you want!
You’re ablaze in beauty! Yes. Yes. Yes." (Matthew 6:7-13, The Message)
The way that I prayed began to change right around the time that I had a grace awakening, when I came to the end of myself, and through the revelation of the Spirit came to know that God really did love me - warts and all! For a long time, He was my Savior and even my Lord, but not my Friend. I just couldn't grasp that!
Have you had a grace awakening? Do you know that He loves you? He does!! And it's not a dutiful love, nor is it just a generalized love. He knows your name, your heart; yes even 'the very number of the hairs on your head.' He wants to walk and talk with you. When you accept Him as a your Friend, your prayers will change - I guarantee it!
____________________________
What a Friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry,
Everything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit,
Oh, what needless pain we bear.
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer!
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged;
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful,
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
What A Friend We Have In Jesus;
Scriven, Joseph M. / Converse, Charles C.
Copyright: Public Domain
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Monday, February 06, 2006
"Looking Good!"
Yes, I watched the Super Bowl and I paid attention to the commercials. I laughed at the funny ones, but the one that stayed with me was one produced by Dove, the cosmetics corporation. (see it at http://www.campaignforrealbeauty.com/commercial.asp?src=homecommerciallink ) It featured a series of pictures of girls and young women who, when they measure themselves by contemporary standards, consider themselves unattractive. They focus on what they see as flaws - too many freckles, wrong color hair, not a perfectly shaped body, etc. According to this company, 92% of American girls think they are flawed, and many of those suffer from low self-esteem. That leads, in many cases, to self-destructive behavior - cutting, eating disorders, promiscuity, etc. It is rather ironic that a cosmetics company is taking the lead in this campaign to recognize real beauty. The cynic in me wonders why, but never the less, I applaud the initiative!
More than a few Christians suffer a similar issue in their spirituality. Our Christian world is filled with celebrities and super-stars whose real humanity is invisible as we see them only 'on stage' or through their books. From that distance their fears, doubts, sins, and inconsistencies cannot be detected. They look so beautiful- their lives so utterly wonderful. And by comparison, we are so human. They change the world, we just try to keep from being mean to our spouse. Their prayers reflect an enviable friendship with God, ours are filled with fumbling, uncertainty - is He really listening? They seem never to be touched by temptations, we feel the magnetic pull of greed, lust, indolence, sensuality - from the first moments of the day. Of course, at some level, we know that these celebrity Christians are really human, but we want the 'image' to be real so badly. If one of them sins publicly, we are shocked and grow angry. Then, we throw away all their books as though what they wrote is somehow less true because we learn they are struggling, imperfect Christians - just like us!
Living authentically as a Christ-follower is a soul-deep thing that isn't always pretty. Living honestly, confessionally -without pretense- will cause many to turn away from us, disgusted by what they perceive as a flawed soul! Thus, many of us will learn that when we around other Believers we should pray only positive prayers, only smile, always be 'up,' and say the right words that impress. The issues of sin, the angst of doubts, the issues of our lives will be covered over with the cosmetics of religion, leaving us with no depth of spirit. Spiritual superficiality is a curse that Jesus Himself addresses. In the 6th chapter of Matthew, he reminds us to go beyond just 'looking good,' which is hypocrisy, to really be good. “Take care! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired, because then you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give a gift to someone in need, don’t shout about it as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I assure you, they have received all the reward they will ever get." Matthew 6:1-2, NLT
Paul, in his second letter to the Corinthian church, was confronted with the challenge of preaching the Truth - which sometimes is not so attractive- to people who had been dazzled by 'super apostles' who had come through town with their magic show religion, their puffy words, and with their empty promises. He reminds the Believers that the Treasure is not us. It is the Spirit IN us! For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made us understand that this light is the brightness of the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. But this precious treasure—this light and power that now shine within us—is held in perishable containers, that is, in our weak bodies. So everyone can see that our glorious power is from God and is not our own. We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed and broken. We are perplexed, but we don’t give up and quit. We are hunted down, but God never abandons us. We get knocked down, but we get up again and keep going. Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies. 2 Corinthians 4:6-10, NLT
I love that passage! "Pressed... perplexed... hunted down... but not crushed, never quitting, not abandoned!"
Are you ready to wash off the make-up, admit the flaws are there, and let the real beauty of Jesus be created in your soul?
Yes, there is a real beauty and it comes from a genuine, ongoing intimacy with the Spirit of God that transforms our hearts.
____________
Change my heart, oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart, oh God, may I be like You.
You are the potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me, this is what I pray.
Change my heart, oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart, oh God, may I be like You!
--Espinosa, Eddie Copyright: 1982 Mercy / Vineyard Publishing
More than a few Christians suffer a similar issue in their spirituality. Our Christian world is filled with celebrities and super-stars whose real humanity is invisible as we see them only 'on stage' or through their books. From that distance their fears, doubts, sins, and inconsistencies cannot be detected. They look so beautiful- their lives so utterly wonderful. And by comparison, we are so human. They change the world, we just try to keep from being mean to our spouse. Their prayers reflect an enviable friendship with God, ours are filled with fumbling, uncertainty - is He really listening? They seem never to be touched by temptations, we feel the magnetic pull of greed, lust, indolence, sensuality - from the first moments of the day. Of course, at some level, we know that these celebrity Christians are really human, but we want the 'image' to be real so badly. If one of them sins publicly, we are shocked and grow angry. Then, we throw away all their books as though what they wrote is somehow less true because we learn they are struggling, imperfect Christians - just like us!
Living authentically as a Christ-follower is a soul-deep thing that isn't always pretty. Living honestly, confessionally -without pretense- will cause many to turn away from us, disgusted by what they perceive as a flawed soul! Thus, many of us will learn that when we around other Believers we should pray only positive prayers, only smile, always be 'up,' and say the right words that impress. The issues of sin, the angst of doubts, the issues of our lives will be covered over with the cosmetics of religion, leaving us with no depth of spirit. Spiritual superficiality is a curse that Jesus Himself addresses. In the 6th chapter of Matthew, he reminds us to go beyond just 'looking good,' which is hypocrisy, to really be good. “Take care! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired, because then you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give a gift to someone in need, don’t shout about it as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I assure you, they have received all the reward they will ever get." Matthew 6:1-2, NLT
Paul, in his second letter to the Corinthian church, was confronted with the challenge of preaching the Truth - which sometimes is not so attractive- to people who had been dazzled by 'super apostles' who had come through town with their magic show religion, their puffy words, and with their empty promises. He reminds the Believers that the Treasure is not us. It is the Spirit IN us! For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made us understand that this light is the brightness of the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. But this precious treasure—this light and power that now shine within us—is held in perishable containers, that is, in our weak bodies. So everyone can see that our glorious power is from God and is not our own. We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed and broken. We are perplexed, but we don’t give up and quit. We are hunted down, but God never abandons us. We get knocked down, but we get up again and keep going. Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies. 2 Corinthians 4:6-10, NLT
I love that passage! "Pressed... perplexed... hunted down... but not crushed, never quitting, not abandoned!"
Are you ready to wash off the make-up, admit the flaws are there, and let the real beauty of Jesus be created in your soul?
Yes, there is a real beauty and it comes from a genuine, ongoing intimacy with the Spirit of God that transforms our hearts.
____________
Change my heart, oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart, oh God, may I be like You.
You are the potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me, this is what I pray.
Change my heart, oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart, oh God, may I be like You!
--Espinosa, Eddie Copyright: 1982 Mercy / Vineyard Publishing
Friday, February 03, 2006
Together Everyone Accomplishes More.
This Sunday evening, America's sports event - Super Bowl XL - will be played in Detroit. The Steelers meet the Seahawks for the world championship. It's a contest of TEAMS, not individuals. The game is not just a match up of Ben Roethlisberger and Matt Hasselbeck, though these men in the quarterback position attract a lot of attention. The efforts of hundreds of people in each organization will be focused on gaining the Lombardi trophy. Coaches, trainers, linemen, receivers, kickers, special teams - will each fulfill their role with the hope of getting the win for the TEAM.
We describe team effort in many ways - network, organization, community, company, squad, troop, band, body, club, church, crew, army - to mention a few. Why so many words to describe our relationships? Because relationships are what makes life happen. Think about that. How much does anyone accomplish on his own? It is as we form the webs of inter-connected relationships that we find a meaningful, purposeful, and effective life.
.
I am part of the Scott family, connected to dozens of people through my parents, my siblings, my children. This past summer I saw how far reaching that web is as I had the privilege of meeting my Danish cousins at a reunion of the Skjodt family at Dad's farm!
I am part of Washington Assembly of God, a body of Believers that works together to educate children, to care for the needy, to provide a place of worship, to strengthen people's commitment to Christ. We pool our resources and share our spiritual gifts. Some amazing things result, things that I could never do alone!
I am part of the Assemblies of God, the body that ordained me to Christian ministry 26 years ago. That world-wide organization connects me to a network of churches and missionaries numbering in the tens of thousands.
I am part of PIP - Pastors In Prayer - a small fellowship of local pastors whose love and support is an invaluable resource to me. Through that little group, numbering less than a dozen, I find friendship and I am able to offer my support to those working locally in God's field alongside of me.
I am an American citizen, a defining description, that is often taken for granted, but as tax-paying citizen of this great nation, I have great privilege and responsibility.
I could go on, but you're hopefully getting the picture. Relationships are built, they do not spring from nowhere! They require hard, and sometimes expensive, work of maintenance. The more we expect from a connection, the more time we must spend on it, weaving the web of inter-connectedness. There are the costs of giving our time, our money, and even some of our autonomy for the sake of the group. Why? Because the best relationships are mutually beneficial - involving give and take. Each of us has had the unfortunate experience of getting into a relationship with a parasite from time to time! Those are life-draining connections where someone who is dysfunctional makes the relationship all about their needs, never returning anything of value.
Jesus said that God's desire for us is summed in just two commands: "Love God wholeheartedly, and love others!" There is a big lie about happiness is that tells you and me that we need to be independent, free from expectations and connections, able to 'do our own thing' in life. Don't buy it. The most miserable people in the world are those without a web of connections that enrich them emotionally, that provide them with opportunities to care for others and to be cared for, that give a setting for the expression of their unique gifts and abilities as part of an organized effort to make a difference!
Are you inter-connected? Are you valuing those ties to others, strengthening them with investment of yourself?
Are you choosing what connections and to whom you are connected with wisdom? The Bible reminds us that we must not be drawn into intimate partnership with those who reject God. "Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can goodness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? What harmony can there be between Christ and the Devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever?" (2 Corinthians 6:14-15, NLT)
We're out to win the world for Christ; not in the sense of conquest, but rather as agents of transformation. The work is obviously beyond anyone of our abilities. But Together we can do it, as the Spirit of God makes us one!
Are you on the TEAM?
We describe team effort in many ways - network, organization, community, company, squad, troop, band, body, club, church, crew, army - to mention a few. Why so many words to describe our relationships? Because relationships are what makes life happen. Think about that. How much does anyone accomplish on his own? It is as we form the webs of inter-connected relationships that we find a meaningful, purposeful, and effective life.
.
I am part of the Scott family, connected to dozens of people through my parents, my siblings, my children. This past summer I saw how far reaching that web is as I had the privilege of meeting my Danish cousins at a reunion of the Skjodt family at Dad's farm!
I am part of Washington Assembly of God, a body of Believers that works together to educate children, to care for the needy, to provide a place of worship, to strengthen people's commitment to Christ. We pool our resources and share our spiritual gifts. Some amazing things result, things that I could never do alone!
I am part of the Assemblies of God, the body that ordained me to Christian ministry 26 years ago. That world-wide organization connects me to a network of churches and missionaries numbering in the tens of thousands.
I am part of PIP - Pastors In Prayer - a small fellowship of local pastors whose love and support is an invaluable resource to me. Through that little group, numbering less than a dozen, I find friendship and I am able to offer my support to those working locally in God's field alongside of me.
I am an American citizen, a defining description, that is often taken for granted, but as tax-paying citizen of this great nation, I have great privilege and responsibility.
I could go on, but you're hopefully getting the picture. Relationships are built, they do not spring from nowhere! They require hard, and sometimes expensive, work of maintenance. The more we expect from a connection, the more time we must spend on it, weaving the web of inter-connectedness. There are the costs of giving our time, our money, and even some of our autonomy for the sake of the group. Why? Because the best relationships are mutually beneficial - involving give and take. Each of us has had the unfortunate experience of getting into a relationship with a parasite from time to time! Those are life-draining connections where someone who is dysfunctional makes the relationship all about their needs, never returning anything of value.
Jesus said that God's desire for us is summed in just two commands: "Love God wholeheartedly, and love others!" There is a big lie about happiness is that tells you and me that we need to be independent, free from expectations and connections, able to 'do our own thing' in life. Don't buy it. The most miserable people in the world are those without a web of connections that enrich them emotionally, that provide them with opportunities to care for others and to be cared for, that give a setting for the expression of their unique gifts and abilities as part of an organized effort to make a difference!
Are you inter-connected? Are you valuing those ties to others, strengthening them with investment of yourself?
Are you choosing what connections and to whom you are connected with wisdom? The Bible reminds us that we must not be drawn into intimate partnership with those who reject God. "Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can goodness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? What harmony can there be between Christ and the Devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever?" (2 Corinthians 6:14-15, NLT)
We're out to win the world for Christ; not in the sense of conquest, but rather as agents of transformation. The work is obviously beyond anyone of our abilities. But Together we can do it, as the Spirit of God makes us one!
Are you on the TEAM?
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Power Encounters
Miracles! They excite us, fascinate us, don't they? The record of the Church's first decades, written down for us by Luke in the Book of the Acts of the Apostles, is compelling reading! The world was changed by a few people who were full of the Spirit of God, who occasionally raised the dead and often healed the sick. These intrepid men and women constantly preached the Good News of Jesus, finding both acceptance and rejection. In between the miracles and conversions, there are stories of conflicts, the stuff of humanity. Christians who were of differing ethnicity -Jews and Greeks- fought over fair distribution of food to their needy people. There were intense struggles over doctrines of grace and the role of the Jewish Law in the Believers' lives which led to a major church council and a compromise. (Acts 15) Paul and his friend, Barnabas, had a fight over a kid named Mark, about whether he was trustworthy enough to take along on a missions trip and it became so sharp, they parted company. I write of these things because we have the tendency to romanticize Acts, thinking that the Church in that era was a kind of heaven on earth with miracles happening everyday. Not so, however....
There is one constant throughout the story. It is the Spirit-inspired faith that these Believers had in God's ability to work in their world! They believed He is a God of power and that He is presently active! Do we?
There is a humorous story found in Acts 12 about people who prayed somewhat faithlessly. Peter was imprisoned, scheduled for trial for preaching about Jesus. Believers gathered at the home of Mary, Mark's mother, to pray. While they prayed, an angel appeared in the prison and led Peter out to the street, through locked gates and past watching guards. Knowing that Believers gathered there, Peter went to that house. The Bible says, "When he knocked on the door to the courtyard, a young woman named Rhoda came to see who it was. But when she recognized his voice—Peter’s voice!—she was so excited and eager to tell everyone Peter was there that she forgot to open the door and left him standing in the street. But they wouldn’t believe her, dismissing her, dismissing her report. “You’re crazy,” they said. She stuck by her story, insisting. They still wouldn’t believe her and said, “It must be his angel.” All this time poor Peter was standing out in the street, knocking away. Finally they opened up and saw him—and went wild!" (Acts 12:13-16, The Message)
Do you ever pray that way - your mouth saying one thing, but your mind thinking another? Take heart! Jesus says we don't need perfect faith to see the release of God's power. But, faith is important. Without it, we don't 'see' what God is doing, nor what He wants to do. If we desire to see power encounters where sin and evil are defeated and the goodness of God is released through Jesus Christ, we must let the Word lay a foundation of faith that asks boldly!
Miracles happen everyday, all around us. Do we see them? Do we have 'spiritual eyes' that perceive God at work?
Believer, pray confidently! Yes, let God be God. Ask great things of Him. Pray for people you know to enter the Kingdom. Pray for those who struggle with sin to become holy. Pray for God's will to be done, for His kingdom to come. Listen to your prayers and learn to pray 'deeply' moving past the "Lord, bless me, my wife, my kids, my friends - Amen" kind of prayers. Watch too for prayers that are focused exclusively on 'creature comforts.' Yes, we are taught to pray for our 'daily bread,' but let's also ask for spiritual food, for transformation of hearts - ours and others.
And -"May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The One who calls you is faithful and he will do it." (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24, NIV)
There is one constant throughout the story. It is the Spirit-inspired faith that these Believers had in God's ability to work in their world! They believed He is a God of power and that He is presently active! Do we?
There is a humorous story found in Acts 12 about people who prayed somewhat faithlessly. Peter was imprisoned, scheduled for trial for preaching about Jesus. Believers gathered at the home of Mary, Mark's mother, to pray. While they prayed, an angel appeared in the prison and led Peter out to the street, through locked gates and past watching guards. Knowing that Believers gathered there, Peter went to that house. The Bible says, "When he knocked on the door to the courtyard, a young woman named Rhoda came to see who it was. But when she recognized his voice—Peter’s voice!—she was so excited and eager to tell everyone Peter was there that she forgot to open the door and left him standing in the street. But they wouldn’t believe her, dismissing her, dismissing her report. “You’re crazy,” they said. She stuck by her story, insisting. They still wouldn’t believe her and said, “It must be his angel.” All this time poor Peter was standing out in the street, knocking away. Finally they opened up and saw him—and went wild!" (Acts 12:13-16, The Message)
Do you ever pray that way - your mouth saying one thing, but your mind thinking another? Take heart! Jesus says we don't need perfect faith to see the release of God's power. But, faith is important. Without it, we don't 'see' what God is doing, nor what He wants to do. If we desire to see power encounters where sin and evil are defeated and the goodness of God is released through Jesus Christ, we must let the Word lay a foundation of faith that asks boldly!
Miracles happen everyday, all around us. Do we see them? Do we have 'spiritual eyes' that perceive God at work?
Believer, pray confidently! Yes, let God be God. Ask great things of Him. Pray for people you know to enter the Kingdom. Pray for those who struggle with sin to become holy. Pray for God's will to be done, for His kingdom to come. Listen to your prayers and learn to pray 'deeply' moving past the "Lord, bless me, my wife, my kids, my friends - Amen" kind of prayers. Watch too for prayers that are focused exclusively on 'creature comforts.' Yes, we are taught to pray for our 'daily bread,' but let's also ask for spiritual food, for transformation of hearts - ours and others.
And -"May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The One who calls you is faithful and he will do it." (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24, NIV)
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
"Lord, give them wisdom!"
Last night, I watched the President's State of the Union address. As the camera swept the room, packed with Senators, Representatives, Supreme Court Judges, Cabinet officers, military brass, and various dignitaries, gathered to hear the President; two thoughts came to mind - the challenges of leadership are great and these are not supermen! President Bush pointed to the threats of war in places like Iran and N. Korea. He spoke of the need to finish the job of defeating the radical Islamic factions that want to destroy America. He urged action on issues involving the continuing cost of care of the elderly and the escalating cost of medical care in our country. He pointedly addressed the nation's "addiction to oil" and the priority of developing other energy sources. One thing is clear - this is a tough time to be a political leader.
The Bible tells Believers to "Plead for God’s mercy upon them, and give thanks. ... for kings and all others who are in authority, so that we can live in peace and quietness, in godliness and dignity." (1 Timothy 2:1-2, NLT)
Praying for someone is a gift! Last Sunday night in a prayer meeting, as I was praying, I became aware of a person calling out to God for me, her Pastor. I stopped praying for a moment to listen. Her words asking God to keep me strong and to use me in teaching His Word were so encouraging and humbling. What a gift. Then, too, I love to pray for people, speaking to God on behalf of someone who is broken, sick, confused, or in need of forgiveness. The Bible reminds us that "The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results." (James 5:16, NLT)
That gift of prayer should be offered to those who are in authority. While you and I may not have much political clout, we have God's ear. He listens to us and His Spirit is not restrained by security or scheduling coordinators. As we pray, we can have a powerful effect on public policy makers. The Bible says - "The king’s heart is like a stream of water directed by the Lord; he turns it wherever he pleases." (Proverbs 21:1, NLT) Isn't that wonderful? We can help our leaders by praying for God's powerful Presence to lead them, to guide their decisions. Let us pray with more specificity than "Lord, bless the President!" How about praying for courage, for insight, for wisdom, for humility? Then too, how about praying for ALL of those who lead? Learn the names of policy makers and those who represent you in Congress, in the State House, at the local level and pray for them by name.
As we pray for those who lead, let us pray for more than greater prosperity. Let us go beyond "America First" prayers. Let us pray as citizens of Heaven who "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness." As we pray for those entrusted with power to become good and godly, to be sensitive to the voice of the Spirit, and to be true servants - we lay the foundation for positive results that go beyond serving our self-interest. In prayer we become partners with God influencing our leaders to use their office in the cause of justice and peace.
And, "When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan." (Proverbs 29:2, NLT)
The Bible tells Believers to "Plead for God’s mercy upon them, and give thanks. ... for kings and all others who are in authority, so that we can live in peace and quietness, in godliness and dignity." (1 Timothy 2:1-2, NLT)
Praying for someone is a gift! Last Sunday night in a prayer meeting, as I was praying, I became aware of a person calling out to God for me, her Pastor. I stopped praying for a moment to listen. Her words asking God to keep me strong and to use me in teaching His Word were so encouraging and humbling. What a gift. Then, too, I love to pray for people, speaking to God on behalf of someone who is broken, sick, confused, or in need of forgiveness. The Bible reminds us that "The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results." (James 5:16, NLT)
That gift of prayer should be offered to those who are in authority. While you and I may not have much political clout, we have God's ear. He listens to us and His Spirit is not restrained by security or scheduling coordinators. As we pray, we can have a powerful effect on public policy makers. The Bible says - "The king’s heart is like a stream of water directed by the Lord; he turns it wherever he pleases." (Proverbs 21:1, NLT) Isn't that wonderful? We can help our leaders by praying for God's powerful Presence to lead them, to guide their decisions. Let us pray with more specificity than "Lord, bless the President!" How about praying for courage, for insight, for wisdom, for humility? Then too, how about praying for ALL of those who lead? Learn the names of policy makers and those who represent you in Congress, in the State House, at the local level and pray for them by name.
As we pray for those who lead, let us pray for more than greater prosperity. Let us go beyond "America First" prayers. Let us pray as citizens of Heaven who "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness." As we pray for those entrusted with power to become good and godly, to be sensitive to the voice of the Spirit, and to be true servants - we lay the foundation for positive results that go beyond serving our self-interest. In prayer we become partners with God influencing our leaders to use their office in the cause of justice and peace.
And, "When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan." (Proverbs 29:2, NLT)
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
All stressed out and a heart attack to go
Dr. Mimi Guarneri, cardiologist, writes that stress is a factor in heart disease equal to hypertension (high blood pressure). She also reports that at least 3/4ths of visits to health care providers are triggered by stress related issues! Living under constant psychological stress is a strong predictor of future cardiac events. (Reader's Digest, Feb. '06) Reading that, and knowing the levels of stress that accompanies my life work, I wondered if this might be the time for a change in career? But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that no matter what a person does in life, stress can be present.
Stress results at least as much, and probably more, from how we react to life as it does from what is happening to us!
The life of Jesus points the way to lower stress levels and thus, to better health. How so? Consider these things.
First, He was not hurried. Think of how much stress we create by hurrying. When the line slows down at the bank 'cause the Grandma at the teller window decides to have a chat, we fret and fume over the minute or two that we are delayed. When our kids aren't ready to go when we are, we feel the tension rising. Many of us (yes, me included!) awaken and mentally program our day or week, creating checkpoints and deadlines that raise stress levels as the schedule is messed up by unforeseen events. Jesus was commissioned by His Father with the work of saving the world and He had to get it done in three years, but He didn't rush or hurry or fret! He even stopped to play with kids which drove his disciples a little crazy! I wonder if all our rushing and multi-tasking really makes us any more effective in our work?
Second, He regularly prayed. Early in the morning, late at night, the Gospels record Jesus going off by Himself to commune with His Father. From the model prayer He gave us (see Matthew 6) we can conclude that He prayed more than 'grocery list' or 'gimme this, gimme that' prayers. He communed with God when He prayed! He says, "Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not.. . . You have so little faith! “So don’t worry about having enough food or drink or clothing. Why be like the pagans (those who don't know God) who are so deeply concerned about these things? Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs." (Matt. 6:27-32 NLT) Put a couple of 15 minute prayer and meditation breaks in your day. Don't program those moments with endless babble! Just go and commune with God like a friend. Bill Hybels reminds us that we are too busy not to pray! (No, that's not a typo!) Read it again.
Third, He lived in community. Jesus took time to be alone, but He did not live alone, nor did He act like the Lone Ranger! He involved Himself with people and even when His friends disappointed Him, He didn't write them off or leave them behind. So how does that lower our stress? You might be thinking, "Jerry, it's people that stress me more than anything!" Might that be because you are not really relating, seeing the people in your life more like chess pieces to be moved around in your game plan? Real community means that we cultivate deep relationships with people that goes beyond their 'functionality' in our strategy and plans. After a couple of Simon Peter's dumb moves, why didn't Jesus fire him and call somebody else? Because He loved him, impulses and all! Real love for others, deep community, enriches our lives and helps stress to dissipate. Ask anybody who has ever been a part of a support group that functions well how much it means to go and talk through some issue of life with a group of real friends.
Fourth, He lived humbly with God and others. We joke about having a "Messiah" complex, but the true Messiah lacked one! The Savior of the world washed feet, served lunch, and played with kids! He didn't seek recognition, climb the social ladder, or position Himself for promotion. He took each day as it came, loved people, and trusted God. Don't tell me that it was easy for Him, or that He just loved everything that came His way. From time to time he grew frustrated. Remember the anger that flowed from him as he saw the religious abuse that was allowed in the temple for the sake of greed? Remember the passionate prayer that poured from him in Gethsemane? Jesus was an emotional man who lived with a sense of His mission, but He was also a humble man who trusted God. His humility is never more clearly seen than in His acceptance of the will of God on the night before the Crucifixion - “Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will, not mine.” (Luke 22:42, NLT)
So, when you think you need to find a new job, or change your neighborhood, or ... something to relieve the stress of life; think again.
Change your response to life.
-Eliminate the inner pressure to hurry, take deep breaths and pace yourself.
-Pray often, and connect with the Spirit of God.
-Strengthen your ties to those in your family, your church, and your workplace, accepting them as the flawed people that we all are!
-And, work on humility that allows you to accept the fact that life cannot be lived on your terms!
You'll live longer and everyone will be glad you did!
Stress results at least as much, and probably more, from how we react to life as it does from what is happening to us!
The life of Jesus points the way to lower stress levels and thus, to better health. How so? Consider these things.
First, He was not hurried. Think of how much stress we create by hurrying. When the line slows down at the bank 'cause the Grandma at the teller window decides to have a chat, we fret and fume over the minute or two that we are delayed. When our kids aren't ready to go when we are, we feel the tension rising. Many of us (yes, me included!) awaken and mentally program our day or week, creating checkpoints and deadlines that raise stress levels as the schedule is messed up by unforeseen events. Jesus was commissioned by His Father with the work of saving the world and He had to get it done in three years, but He didn't rush or hurry or fret! He even stopped to play with kids which drove his disciples a little crazy! I wonder if all our rushing and multi-tasking really makes us any more effective in our work?
Second, He regularly prayed. Early in the morning, late at night, the Gospels record Jesus going off by Himself to commune with His Father. From the model prayer He gave us (see Matthew 6) we can conclude that He prayed more than 'grocery list' or 'gimme this, gimme that' prayers. He communed with God when He prayed! He says, "Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not.. . . You have so little faith! “So don’t worry about having enough food or drink or clothing. Why be like the pagans (those who don't know God) who are so deeply concerned about these things? Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs." (Matt. 6:27-32 NLT) Put a couple of 15 minute prayer and meditation breaks in your day. Don't program those moments with endless babble! Just go and commune with God like a friend. Bill Hybels reminds us that we are too busy not to pray! (No, that's not a typo!) Read it again.
Third, He lived in community. Jesus took time to be alone, but He did not live alone, nor did He act like the Lone Ranger! He involved Himself with people and even when His friends disappointed Him, He didn't write them off or leave them behind. So how does that lower our stress? You might be thinking, "Jerry, it's people that stress me more than anything!" Might that be because you are not really relating, seeing the people in your life more like chess pieces to be moved around in your game plan? Real community means that we cultivate deep relationships with people that goes beyond their 'functionality' in our strategy and plans. After a couple of Simon Peter's dumb moves, why didn't Jesus fire him and call somebody else? Because He loved him, impulses and all! Real love for others, deep community, enriches our lives and helps stress to dissipate. Ask anybody who has ever been a part of a support group that functions well how much it means to go and talk through some issue of life with a group of real friends.
Fourth, He lived humbly with God and others. We joke about having a "Messiah" complex, but the true Messiah lacked one! The Savior of the world washed feet, served lunch, and played with kids! He didn't seek recognition, climb the social ladder, or position Himself for promotion. He took each day as it came, loved people, and trusted God. Don't tell me that it was easy for Him, or that He just loved everything that came His way. From time to time he grew frustrated. Remember the anger that flowed from him as he saw the religious abuse that was allowed in the temple for the sake of greed? Remember the passionate prayer that poured from him in Gethsemane? Jesus was an emotional man who lived with a sense of His mission, but He was also a humble man who trusted God. His humility is never more clearly seen than in His acceptance of the will of God on the night before the Crucifixion - “Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will, not mine.” (Luke 22:42, NLT)
So, when you think you need to find a new job, or change your neighborhood, or ... something to relieve the stress of life; think again.
Change your response to life.
-Eliminate the inner pressure to hurry, take deep breaths and pace yourself.
-Pray often, and connect with the Spirit of God.
-Strengthen your ties to those in your family, your church, and your workplace, accepting them as the flawed people that we all are!
-And, work on humility that allows you to accept the fact that life cannot be lived on your terms!
You'll live longer and everyone will be glad you did!
Monday, January 30, 2006
My tomorrow's are all known to Him
I'm a news buff; reading the newspaper everyday, watching TV almost every evening, and keeping my eye on headline development with pop-ups on my PC screen at the office. These are the headlines that I've read in the last few days...
Iran ready to produce nuclear weapons with aim of Israel's destruction!
Bird Flu reaches to Turkey. (Really, that was a headline. I'll bet the editor thought it was 'catchy.')
Tragic wreck ends life of husband and father!
Hamas takes power in Palestinian world!
ABC News Anchor, critically injured in Iraq by bomb!
There are those things that don't make headlines, but that are real threats to personal security all the same - things like viruses and layoffs. On one hand, my life seems as predictable as the sunrise. I awaken each day to a peaceful neighborhood, and move through familiar rituals. I have no sense of doom or danger, occasionally even joking with my wife about how 'boring' we are, two middle-aged people who just do what needs to be done without much fanfare or excitement. Boring, in the 'no crisis' sense, is good!
But, I am also aware that life can change in a moment! One visit to the doctor's office; a patch of ice on a country road, as I was reminded again last week, can rewrite the script for family's future in 2 seconds. Just over four years ago, on 9/11/01, our national illusion of invincibility was erased by 19 terrorists with murderous intentions. An ordinary Tuesday morning, turned into a national month of mourning and literally changed the course of history.
So, how do we live in a world that is so full of potential threats and danger?
1. We acknowledge our vulnerability! But doesn't that make us insecure? Doesn't that fill us with anxiety? Not necessarily, but it does make us act more wisely. When I climb into my Mountaineer with its heavy frame and air bags for safety, I 'feel' secure; so secure that I'm tempted to ignore the seatbelts. But it's a false sense of security! The activity that exposes me to the greatest risk of injury or death everyday is driving my car! So, if I recognize that danger and put on my seatbelt, I reduce the risk by a huge margin!
Spiritually, we risk falling into terribly destructive behaviors when we think we're too good, or too smart, to be tempted, to make foolish or sinful choices. That is why the Word reminds us (1 Cor. 10:12 The Message) "Don’t be so naive and self-confident. You’re not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it’s useless. Cultivate God-confidence."
2. We keep our hope secure in Christ, our Lord. Watch out for 'magical' kind of thinking that corrupts authentic faith! I know a man who is a modern Job! If it could go wrong for him, it has. He has lost nearly everything he held dear and is on the edge of even throwing away his faith. I have no clue why the Lord has allowed him to taste such a bitter cup, nor would it be proper for me to make a judgment. But, I think I know why he has come to such bitterness in his soul. He was taught, wrongly, that if he did the 'right things' and said the 'right prayers,' that he could exempt himself from the suffering that is common to the human race. His Christianity was tinged with religious magic. So, when life fell apart, he could only conclude one of two things - "God lied!" or "I failed." Either one of those is a pretty devastating conclusion. The first is impossible, the second possibly not true! Jesus reminds us that bad things happen even to good people. (see John 9)
So what does it mean to hope in Christ? We raise our sights to eternity, trusting His promise to 'never leave us, nor forsake us' in this world and to bring us home to the Father's house when our life is complete! (Col 3:1-3 NLT) "Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits at God’s right hand in the place of honor and power. Let heaven fill your thoughts. Do not think only about things down here on earth. For you died when Christ died, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God." That is an amazingly wonderful way to live.
3. We pray with a child-like faith! Yes, I believe in angels, for the Bible tells me that "they are ministering spirits sent to serve" Believers, so I ask for God to send His angels to watch over those I love. And, too, even as I trust in God's ability to rule all of the matters of life, I recognize that He has given me the privilege of praying for change, so I do. And as someone has said, "the more I pray, the more amazing 'coincidences' happen around me." The prayers of God's people change the course of history. So, I pray - with humility, yet boldly, coming into the very Presence of God to present my petitions, to ask for Him to keep me in His hands, to present myself to the Spirit for guidance and change.
Feeling a little anxious today? Me, too. So, I'll pray. Join me.
_______________
Precious Lord, take my hand,
Lead me on, help me stand!
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn.
Through the storm, through the night;
Lead me on to the light.
Take my hand, Precious Lord, Lead me home.
When my way grows drear,
Precious Lord, linger near.
When my life is almost gone;
Hear my cry, hear my call,Hold my hand lest I fall.
Take my hand, Precious Lord, Lead me home.
When the darkness appears,
And the night draws near,
And the day is past and gone.
At the river I stand,
Guide my feet, hold my hand.
Take my hand, Precious Lord, Lead me home.
Precious Lord (Take My Hand) Tommy Dorsey
Iran ready to produce nuclear weapons with aim of Israel's destruction!
Bird Flu reaches to Turkey. (Really, that was a headline. I'll bet the editor thought it was 'catchy.')
Tragic wreck ends life of husband and father!
Hamas takes power in Palestinian world!
ABC News Anchor, critically injured in Iraq by bomb!
There are those things that don't make headlines, but that are real threats to personal security all the same - things like viruses and layoffs. On one hand, my life seems as predictable as the sunrise. I awaken each day to a peaceful neighborhood, and move through familiar rituals. I have no sense of doom or danger, occasionally even joking with my wife about how 'boring' we are, two middle-aged people who just do what needs to be done without much fanfare or excitement. Boring, in the 'no crisis' sense, is good!
But, I am also aware that life can change in a moment! One visit to the doctor's office; a patch of ice on a country road, as I was reminded again last week, can rewrite the script for family's future in 2 seconds. Just over four years ago, on 9/11/01, our national illusion of invincibility was erased by 19 terrorists with murderous intentions. An ordinary Tuesday morning, turned into a national month of mourning and literally changed the course of history.
So, how do we live in a world that is so full of potential threats and danger?
1. We acknowledge our vulnerability! But doesn't that make us insecure? Doesn't that fill us with anxiety? Not necessarily, but it does make us act more wisely. When I climb into my Mountaineer with its heavy frame and air bags for safety, I 'feel' secure; so secure that I'm tempted to ignore the seatbelts. But it's a false sense of security! The activity that exposes me to the greatest risk of injury or death everyday is driving my car! So, if I recognize that danger and put on my seatbelt, I reduce the risk by a huge margin!
Spiritually, we risk falling into terribly destructive behaviors when we think we're too good, or too smart, to be tempted, to make foolish or sinful choices. That is why the Word reminds us (1 Cor. 10:12 The Message) "Don’t be so naive and self-confident. You’re not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it’s useless. Cultivate God-confidence."
2. We keep our hope secure in Christ, our Lord. Watch out for 'magical' kind of thinking that corrupts authentic faith! I know a man who is a modern Job! If it could go wrong for him, it has. He has lost nearly everything he held dear and is on the edge of even throwing away his faith. I have no clue why the Lord has allowed him to taste such a bitter cup, nor would it be proper for me to make a judgment. But, I think I know why he has come to such bitterness in his soul. He was taught, wrongly, that if he did the 'right things' and said the 'right prayers,' that he could exempt himself from the suffering that is common to the human race. His Christianity was tinged with religious magic. So, when life fell apart, he could only conclude one of two things - "God lied!" or "I failed." Either one of those is a pretty devastating conclusion. The first is impossible, the second possibly not true! Jesus reminds us that bad things happen even to good people. (see John 9)
So what does it mean to hope in Christ? We raise our sights to eternity, trusting His promise to 'never leave us, nor forsake us' in this world and to bring us home to the Father's house when our life is complete! (Col 3:1-3 NLT) "Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits at God’s right hand in the place of honor and power. Let heaven fill your thoughts. Do not think only about things down here on earth. For you died when Christ died, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God." That is an amazingly wonderful way to live.
3. We pray with a child-like faith! Yes, I believe in angels, for the Bible tells me that "they are ministering spirits sent to serve" Believers, so I ask for God to send His angels to watch over those I love. And, too, even as I trust in God's ability to rule all of the matters of life, I recognize that He has given me the privilege of praying for change, so I do. And as someone has said, "the more I pray, the more amazing 'coincidences' happen around me." The prayers of God's people change the course of history. So, I pray - with humility, yet boldly, coming into the very Presence of God to present my petitions, to ask for Him to keep me in His hands, to present myself to the Spirit for guidance and change.
Feeling a little anxious today? Me, too. So, I'll pray. Join me.
_______________
Precious Lord, take my hand,
Lead me on, help me stand!
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn.
Through the storm, through the night;
Lead me on to the light.
Take my hand, Precious Lord, Lead me home.
When my way grows drear,
Precious Lord, linger near.
When my life is almost gone;
Hear my cry, hear my call,Hold my hand lest I fall.
Take my hand, Precious Lord, Lead me home.
When the darkness appears,
And the night draws near,
And the day is past and gone.
At the river I stand,
Guide my feet, hold my hand.
Take my hand, Precious Lord, Lead me home.
Precious Lord (Take My Hand) Tommy Dorsey
Friday, January 27, 2006
Led by the Spirit
A few years ago the idea of learning to dance with my wife formed in my head. I thought it would be romantic and fun to be able to move together to the rhythms of a waltz. Really, I did! So we joined about 10 other couples in a class at the local fitness center. Our teachers opened the first session by putting on a song and showing us the end result they hoped to teach us to achieve.; two people, moving as one, gracefully across the floor. I'm not exactly sure why that appealed to me but it did and it does! I still don't know how to dance with my wife! After two frustrating hours, I gave up and became a swing dance class drop-out.
The idea died until a couple of years ago when Bev and I were at MusicFest and listening to one of the big bands. A couple we were sitting with there got up and started to dance together... and wow; could they dance! Terry and Lisa became like one person, beautiful to watch, and having a great time together, moving under the influence of the music coming from the stage.
There are two primary reasons I still can't dance. First, I am too self-conscious and won't just 'let myself go.' Second, I am too analytic, trying to break down each movement into tiny parts rather than just moving into the music. To become a dancer, I have to give up control and come under the influence of the music as well as becoming more responsive to the movement of my partner. It isn't happening, yet!
Living as a Spirit-filled Christian has more than a few parallels to the idea of a couple in a beautiful dance! The Bible says, {Galatians 5:25} Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Some Believers struggle and fight, moving through life in fits and starts, with great effort. Others move gracefully, led by the Spirit's music. Both types of Believers live in the same broken world and deal with the same tough stuff - disappointment, difficult bosses, financial challenges, hurricanes and snow storms, traffic jams, temptation, and all those kinds of things. Yet, some are full of grace while others are a frightful mess.
There is an explanation illustrated by the life of Simon Peter who was called by Jesus to become a disciple. For three years, he didn't get it right, time after time. Oh, he tried, mightily! But most of the time it came out wrong, turned out badly. The low point was the night of Jesus' arrest and trial. First when warned of impending failure by the Lord, Peter insisted that even if the other disciples failed, "I never will!" "Ah," Jesus said sadly, "but you will, Peter. Before the rooster announces the dawn, you will deny me three times." Then, a few hours later as Jesus was being arrested, Peter pulled out his sword and made an attempt at defending his Friend, succeeding only in cutting off a man's ear, which Jesus promptly healed, as He told Peter, "Put that thing away!" And, a little later, in the grip of panic, we can over hear Peter cursing and swearing as he says, "I tell you, I never knew him!"
Flip the calendar ahead 50 days to the opening chapters of the book of Acts. A man with the same name but a new manner of living appears. Peter leads the disciples, teaches them the Scripture, preaches on the street, and boldly stands up to those who are trying to crush the Jesus movement. With grace and beauty he moves through those chapters. How does the Bible account for the difference? Acts 4:8 sums it up, saying "Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, . . ."
The life and music of the Spirit filled him up and he began to dance gracefully under the Spirit's influence, moving to the rhythms of Heaven. When he came to the end of himself, when he was crushed beyond hope by his failure, God came with the outpouring of His Spirit. And Peter was never again a bumbling goof-up. Yes, he made mistakes now and again, but he was a man of grace and power, who spread the message of Jesus and life across the world!
Are you 'keeping step with the Spirit,' or are you stumbling and bumbling, from fall to failure?
Listen to the music of the Spirit. Give yourself over to His lead. Be filled! And start to dance!
________________________
Lord-willing, this Sunday, I will continue the theme, "Living a Break Through Life" at the Assembly.
I'll be exploring this concept of keeping step with the Spirit. Come and worship with us at 10:15 AM!
The idea died until a couple of years ago when Bev and I were at MusicFest and listening to one of the big bands. A couple we were sitting with there got up and started to dance together... and wow; could they dance! Terry and Lisa became like one person, beautiful to watch, and having a great time together, moving under the influence of the music coming from the stage.
There are two primary reasons I still can't dance. First, I am too self-conscious and won't just 'let myself go.' Second, I am too analytic, trying to break down each movement into tiny parts rather than just moving into the music. To become a dancer, I have to give up control and come under the influence of the music as well as becoming more responsive to the movement of my partner. It isn't happening, yet!
Living as a Spirit-filled Christian has more than a few parallels to the idea of a couple in a beautiful dance! The Bible says, {Galatians 5:25} Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Some Believers struggle and fight, moving through life in fits and starts, with great effort. Others move gracefully, led by the Spirit's music. Both types of Believers live in the same broken world and deal with the same tough stuff - disappointment, difficult bosses, financial challenges, hurricanes and snow storms, traffic jams, temptation, and all those kinds of things. Yet, some are full of grace while others are a frightful mess.
There is an explanation illustrated by the life of Simon Peter who was called by Jesus to become a disciple. For three years, he didn't get it right, time after time. Oh, he tried, mightily! But most of the time it came out wrong, turned out badly. The low point was the night of Jesus' arrest and trial. First when warned of impending failure by the Lord, Peter insisted that even if the other disciples failed, "I never will!" "Ah," Jesus said sadly, "but you will, Peter. Before the rooster announces the dawn, you will deny me three times." Then, a few hours later as Jesus was being arrested, Peter pulled out his sword and made an attempt at defending his Friend, succeeding only in cutting off a man's ear, which Jesus promptly healed, as He told Peter, "Put that thing away!" And, a little later, in the grip of panic, we can over hear Peter cursing and swearing as he says, "I tell you, I never knew him!"
Flip the calendar ahead 50 days to the opening chapters of the book of Acts. A man with the same name but a new manner of living appears. Peter leads the disciples, teaches them the Scripture, preaches on the street, and boldly stands up to those who are trying to crush the Jesus movement. With grace and beauty he moves through those chapters. How does the Bible account for the difference? Acts 4:8 sums it up, saying "Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, . . ."
The life and music of the Spirit filled him up and he began to dance gracefully under the Spirit's influence, moving to the rhythms of Heaven. When he came to the end of himself, when he was crushed beyond hope by his failure, God came with the outpouring of His Spirit. And Peter was never again a bumbling goof-up. Yes, he made mistakes now and again, but he was a man of grace and power, who spread the message of Jesus and life across the world!
Are you 'keeping step with the Spirit,' or are you stumbling and bumbling, from fall to failure?
Listen to the music of the Spirit. Give yourself over to His lead. Be filled! And start to dance!
________________________
Lord-willing, this Sunday, I will continue the theme, "Living a Break Through Life" at the Assembly.
I'll be exploring this concept of keeping step with the Spirit. Come and worship with us at 10:15 AM!
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Privileged and Responsible
"I'm an American citizen." As such, I enjoy the protection of the Constitution of these United States and the Bill of Rights. I have a right to the benefits provided by our government- justice under law and basic political freedoms. Yes, then too, I have a responsibility to obey the laws of the governmental authority - local, state, and Federal. I spent time on Monday fulfilling a basic obligation of a citizen of this country; doing an annual tax return. Being a citizen is not just a legal definition. Both privilege and responsibility are part of my citizenship.
"I am a citizen of the Kingdom of Christ." This is not a statement of some future reality or a figurative expression without present implications. This is statement of a fact that carries, like my American citizenship, both privilege and responsibility. No one is a citizen of Christ's kingdom by natural birth. We are invited by the King and accept His invitation through faith! In Ephesians 2:12-13 Paul explains this saying, "remember that at that time (that is, before you received Christ Jesus as Savior and King) you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ." What then? We begin to live, really live! Or so we should.
In Matthew, chapters 5, 6, and 7, Jesus explains the ways of the Kingdom. He speaks of love, a real and practical love, as a basic principle that should guide us in our daily interactions. He teaches us of trust in God that privileges us with a life without anxiety lived among circumstances that cause 'non-citizens' great worry and fear. He tells us of a profound change in our relationship with God, our Father, that comes from a heart deep desire to please Him. The God we once feared from a distance, we now love and serve with joy. Once early in these chapters and again near the end, Jesus reminds us that entering into the Kingdom, that is, living under the protection of the King and enjoying the privileges of His kingdom, is connected to our choices. "For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven." {Matthew 5:20} And again, “Not all people who sound religious are really godly. They may refer to me as ‘Lord,’ but they still won’t enter the Kingdom of Heaven. The decisive issue is whether they obey my Father in heaven." {Matthew 7:21} True kingdom citizens live profoundly changed lives, from the very core of their beings.
Is Jesus talking about 'getting to go to Heaven when we die' when he speaks of 'entering the Kingdom?' No, He is telling us about getting to bring Heaven to earth while we live! In a discussion about how we live - whether simply to satisfy our basic physical desires and needs, or for something more lasting - Paul says, {Phil. 3:18-20} "I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. Their future is eternal destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and all they think about is this life here on earth. But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives."
Are you 'in the Kingdom?' Are you embracing the privileges and the responsibilities?
_________________
Matthew 6:9-13 (NIV)
9 “This, then, is how you should pray:
”‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed (holy, reverenced) be your name,
10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us today our daily bread.
12 Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. Amen.
"I am a citizen of the Kingdom of Christ." This is not a statement of some future reality or a figurative expression without present implications. This is statement of a fact that carries, like my American citizenship, both privilege and responsibility. No one is a citizen of Christ's kingdom by natural birth. We are invited by the King and accept His invitation through faith! In Ephesians 2:12-13 Paul explains this saying, "remember that at that time (that is, before you received Christ Jesus as Savior and King) you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ." What then? We begin to live, really live! Or so we should.
In Matthew, chapters 5, 6, and 7, Jesus explains the ways of the Kingdom. He speaks of love, a real and practical love, as a basic principle that should guide us in our daily interactions. He teaches us of trust in God that privileges us with a life without anxiety lived among circumstances that cause 'non-citizens' great worry and fear. He tells us of a profound change in our relationship with God, our Father, that comes from a heart deep desire to please Him. The God we once feared from a distance, we now love and serve with joy. Once early in these chapters and again near the end, Jesus reminds us that entering into the Kingdom, that is, living under the protection of the King and enjoying the privileges of His kingdom, is connected to our choices. "For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven." {Matthew 5:20} And again, “Not all people who sound religious are really godly. They may refer to me as ‘Lord,’ but they still won’t enter the Kingdom of Heaven. The decisive issue is whether they obey my Father in heaven." {Matthew 7:21} True kingdom citizens live profoundly changed lives, from the very core of their beings.
Is Jesus talking about 'getting to go to Heaven when we die' when he speaks of 'entering the Kingdom?' No, He is telling us about getting to bring Heaven to earth while we live! In a discussion about how we live - whether simply to satisfy our basic physical desires and needs, or for something more lasting - Paul says, {Phil. 3:18-20} "I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. Their future is eternal destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and all they think about is this life here on earth. But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives."
Are you 'in the Kingdom?' Are you embracing the privileges and the responsibilities?
_________________
Matthew 6:9-13 (NIV)
9 “This, then, is how you should pray:
”‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed (holy, reverenced) be your name,
10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us today our daily bread.
12 Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. Amen.
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Am I a good Christian?
OK, just writing that question makes me shudder because the whole quest to be a 'good' Christian has, in many places and times, quickly become an exercise in rule-making, judging, and finger-pointing, and descend into legalism, that is, thinking salvation is earned by keeping religious rules! And yet, as James asks, "What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?" (James 2:14, NIV) Paul, too, pleads with us to "live a life worthy of the calling you have received." (Eph. 4.1, NIV)
What we believe about God, about Jesus Christ's death and Resurrection, about the life of the Holy Spirit must show a a clear connection to our decisions made in the day to day world. If our faith in Jesus Christ is not showing in obvious ways, then we must conclude that our experience with God is flawed. We must go back to study the Scripture to learn of His commands, and fall down on our knees to ask Him to make us who we ought to be. Just be wise about the 'transformational' markers you choose to look for in yourself as a gauge of spiritual growth. In my youth, many of the markers that came to me were not particularly Biblical. I was taught that a 'good' Christian didn't use tobacco products, did not drink alcohol, did not go to the movies, did not use vulgar words. Those rules may have some merit for clean living - but they do not have much to do with being a 'good' Christian. Why? Because they weren't really about loving God and/or loving other people.
Jesus spoke frequently about caring for the poor and the weak. Naturally, people don't care about the poor. The privileged ignore the poor, or worse, abuse and exploit them. So a question about being a good Christian would involve ways in which we really show a concern for the poor. Caution! Don't just write a check to the Red Cross and then put a little mark in the column under - Compassion shown. That's religion! Instead, ask yourself, "Am I engaged with those who are in need, those that are invisible or neglected by the privileged? Do I really love them or just pity them? What am I doing to ease their suffering in the name of Jesus?"
Jesus was very direct about the importance of loving those who mistreat us. His instructions are unmistakable. "Turn the other cheek! If they grab for your shirt off your back, hand them your coat, too!" Naturally, if someone starts stepping on our toes, we quickly rise to defend ourselves, our reputation, our position, our stuff. "Hey, Jerry, come on now. Ease up. I haven't killed anybody!" Great! What about your words that 'kill?' What about that concealed hatred that makes you think, "I wish he'd move to Seattle so I never had to see him again?" So a question to ask, if we're serious about being a good Christian is, "Am I loving those people who are not loving towards me? What is my first inclination: to get even, or to reach out in gentleness?" Start at home! If you're not willing to let God teach you to love your spouse, with whom you have a 'one-ness' covenant, what makes you think you're ready to love anybody else?
Jesus was painfully to the point about the meaning of life, too. He said, “No one can serve two masters. ... You cannot serve both God and money." (Matthew 6:24, NLT) Americans define life in terms of having stuff. We are a 'consumer' culture. We work, we earn, we buy! If we're serious about being a good Christian, we must be willing to let God re-shape our value system so that love people, not things. Naturally, we crave more. If we're growing in Christ, we will find that the new cars, the fashionable clothes, the trinkets that help us to announce, "I've made it" to our friends and family, mean less and less to us in terms of life's meaning. Careful here, too. It's too easy of an answer to jump onto a sliding scale that says, "Well, I don't spend $'s on ......, therefore I am a good Christian." Or we might point to the fact that we give a tithe to the church (10% of our income) as evidence of our devotion to God. That's all good, but Jesus' true standard about materialism is that we love Him with everything we own and put it all at His disposal! (And don't judge somebody for what they buy! Tend to your own checkbook!)
Are you starting to feel like a really bad Christian? Me, too! If we're real honest, we realize that there's no way any of us will consistently meet His mark --- on our own or by our own determination. That's why a moral reformation is not what we seek. Instead, we seek a Spiritual transformation. He promises that if I confess my sinfulness: "Lord, I don't want to love the poor. I want to be cool, hip, and hang out with those who are upscale. Jesus, I see how I am quick to defend myself, and I admit that thoughts about my reputation and pride are never far from my conscious mind. I covet the stuff that I see on the billboards, crave the easy life of the rich, and seek to give the minimal gift too readily." - He will forgive me and He will work to defeat the power of the sinful nature in me! Hallelujah, what a Savior!
Our world needs to see some good Christians. Let Jesus Christ turn you into one, so that "your unbelieving neighbors... will see your honorable behavior, and they will believe and give honor to God when he comes to judge the world." (1 Peter 2:12, NLT)
_________________
Investigate my life, O God,
find out everything about me;
Cross-examine and test me,
get a clear picture of what I’m about;
See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong—
then guide me on the road to eternal life.
Psalm 139:23-24 (The Message)
What we believe about God, about Jesus Christ's death and Resurrection, about the life of the Holy Spirit must show a a clear connection to our decisions made in the day to day world. If our faith in Jesus Christ is not showing in obvious ways, then we must conclude that our experience with God is flawed. We must go back to study the Scripture to learn of His commands, and fall down on our knees to ask Him to make us who we ought to be. Just be wise about the 'transformational' markers you choose to look for in yourself as a gauge of spiritual growth. In my youth, many of the markers that came to me were not particularly Biblical. I was taught that a 'good' Christian didn't use tobacco products, did not drink alcohol, did not go to the movies, did not use vulgar words. Those rules may have some merit for clean living - but they do not have much to do with being a 'good' Christian. Why? Because they weren't really about loving God and/or loving other people.
Jesus spoke frequently about caring for the poor and the weak. Naturally, people don't care about the poor. The privileged ignore the poor, or worse, abuse and exploit them. So a question about being a good Christian would involve ways in which we really show a concern for the poor. Caution! Don't just write a check to the Red Cross and then put a little mark in the column under - Compassion shown. That's religion! Instead, ask yourself, "Am I engaged with those who are in need, those that are invisible or neglected by the privileged? Do I really love them or just pity them? What am I doing to ease their suffering in the name of Jesus?"
Jesus was very direct about the importance of loving those who mistreat us. His instructions are unmistakable. "Turn the other cheek! If they grab for your shirt off your back, hand them your coat, too!" Naturally, if someone starts stepping on our toes, we quickly rise to defend ourselves, our reputation, our position, our stuff. "Hey, Jerry, come on now. Ease up. I haven't killed anybody!" Great! What about your words that 'kill?' What about that concealed hatred that makes you think, "I wish he'd move to Seattle so I never had to see him again?" So a question to ask, if we're serious about being a good Christian is, "Am I loving those people who are not loving towards me? What is my first inclination: to get even, or to reach out in gentleness?" Start at home! If you're not willing to let God teach you to love your spouse, with whom you have a 'one-ness' covenant, what makes you think you're ready to love anybody else?
Jesus was painfully to the point about the meaning of life, too. He said, “No one can serve two masters. ... You cannot serve both God and money." (Matthew 6:24, NLT) Americans define life in terms of having stuff. We are a 'consumer' culture. We work, we earn, we buy! If we're serious about being a good Christian, we must be willing to let God re-shape our value system so that love people, not things. Naturally, we crave more. If we're growing in Christ, we will find that the new cars, the fashionable clothes, the trinkets that help us to announce, "I've made it" to our friends and family, mean less and less to us in terms of life's meaning. Careful here, too. It's too easy of an answer to jump onto a sliding scale that says, "Well, I don't spend $'s on ......, therefore I am a good Christian." Or we might point to the fact that we give a tithe to the church (10% of our income) as evidence of our devotion to God. That's all good, but Jesus' true standard about materialism is that we love Him with everything we own and put it all at His disposal! (And don't judge somebody for what they buy! Tend to your own checkbook!)
Are you starting to feel like a really bad Christian? Me, too! If we're real honest, we realize that there's no way any of us will consistently meet His mark --- on our own or by our own determination. That's why a moral reformation is not what we seek. Instead, we seek a Spiritual transformation. He promises that if I confess my sinfulness: "Lord, I don't want to love the poor. I want to be cool, hip, and hang out with those who are upscale. Jesus, I see how I am quick to defend myself, and I admit that thoughts about my reputation and pride are never far from my conscious mind. I covet the stuff that I see on the billboards, crave the easy life of the rich, and seek to give the minimal gift too readily." - He will forgive me and He will work to defeat the power of the sinful nature in me! Hallelujah, what a Savior!
Our world needs to see some good Christians. Let Jesus Christ turn you into one, so that "your unbelieving neighbors... will see your honorable behavior, and they will believe and give honor to God when he comes to judge the world." (1 Peter 2:12, NLT)
_________________
Investigate my life, O God,
find out everything about me;
Cross-examine and test me,
get a clear picture of what I’m about;
See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong—
then guide me on the road to eternal life.
Psalm 139:23-24 (The Message)
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Eyes on the prize?
Christianity Today (Feb., 2006) reports a story about Bruce Wilkinson's departure from Africa. The well-known author of The Prayer of Jabez, suddenly left the ministry, Dream For Africa, that he founded with great public fanfare two years ago. According to the article, his designs to create a home in Swaziland for 10,000 AIDS orphans were frustrated by local government inaction. In addition, he was severely criticized by African press, accused of being more interested in controlling land than helping orphans, a baseless charge. After 18 months, Wilkinson, despite having American support and plentiful resources, quit Africa to return to his home in Georgia. A source is quoted as saying, "Bruce was broken at this time. Dream for Africa had physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially taken a serious toll."
Days come to us all when we've 'had enough!' We quit; or, at least, we think we want to. We are tempted to just get in our car and drive away, leaving 'the problem' in our rearview mirror. The reason I was so interested in the Wilkinson story is that I could identify with the kinds of emotions that he must have felt when he was accused of ulterior motives and frustrated by inaction. When I've experienced those things, I have thought that it was just because I didn't have enough money, or staff, or time ... or something ... to implement my dreams. Yet, here is a man with all those things- money, staff, resources- who, to all reports, got fed up and went home! I am sad for him and sad for those in Africa with such huge needs that he left behind. (Please read what follows as personal, not as relating to Wilkinson, since I don't know his heart.)
When I am tempted to quit my calling, to look for an easier place to serve, the one important thing I know is this - "Do nothing!"
The worst time to make a decision for the future is when I am discouraged, frustrated, or angry! The pithy wisdom of Proverbs reminds me, "There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death." (Proverbs 16:25, NLT) The course of action that 'makes so much sense' now, may look quite foolish a month from now when the pressure has let up. I have lived long enough to be very thankful that I didn't resign or move under pressure on more than one occasion. To be sure, there are times when a strategic retreat is in order. When we're up against an unyielding foe, when nothing is going right, when everything thing we try to do meets with opposition- there's not a thing wrong with saying, "I need to take a break!" We step away, for a day or take a week's vacation, and try to regain perspective. A prayer retreat, where we get alone with our thoughts and God, letting it all out with a flood of words (and maybe some tears, too), can help to restore us to effectiveness. God has taught me this, too - at the end of myself, He's able to step in and do amazingly wonderful things. It's true! When I give up, when I throw my hands up in frustration saying, "I don't know what to do," God finds an opening!
Don't misunderstand what that means. When "God steps in" that doesn't mean we get to feel better, that we enjoy vindication, or that everyone around falls in line with our program. It means that we give away the need to be right, the desire to have it done our way, and/or the need for recognition. Ego must die (again and again!) so that the Spirit-life can emerge. Letting God take over is a costly, deathly choice, that provides a way for His plan to take root and grow bringing new life. Often those who have opposed us even rejoice thinking that they have prevailed against us! "God knows!" is what I tell myself in those moments. He knows what I've done, why I've done it, and His approval is what matters most!
Are you ready to quit today? Can you find a way to do a strategic retreat? Is there an honest counselor (no, not someone who will just tell you that you're right!) who will help you unravel the knots? James teaches us - "let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." (James 1:4, KJV)
Here's the complete thought. Take this word from the Word with you today. "So let endurance grow, for when it is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything. If you need wisdom—if you want to know what God wants you to do—ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind." (James 1:4-6, NLT)
Steady on - for God's glory.
Days come to us all when we've 'had enough!' We quit; or, at least, we think we want to. We are tempted to just get in our car and drive away, leaving 'the problem' in our rearview mirror. The reason I was so interested in the Wilkinson story is that I could identify with the kinds of emotions that he must have felt when he was accused of ulterior motives and frustrated by inaction. When I've experienced those things, I have thought that it was just because I didn't have enough money, or staff, or time ... or something ... to implement my dreams. Yet, here is a man with all those things- money, staff, resources- who, to all reports, got fed up and went home! I am sad for him and sad for those in Africa with such huge needs that he left behind. (Please read what follows as personal, not as relating to Wilkinson, since I don't know his heart.)
When I am tempted to quit my calling, to look for an easier place to serve, the one important thing I know is this - "Do nothing!"
The worst time to make a decision for the future is when I am discouraged, frustrated, or angry! The pithy wisdom of Proverbs reminds me, "There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death." (Proverbs 16:25, NLT) The course of action that 'makes so much sense' now, may look quite foolish a month from now when the pressure has let up. I have lived long enough to be very thankful that I didn't resign or move under pressure on more than one occasion. To be sure, there are times when a strategic retreat is in order. When we're up against an unyielding foe, when nothing is going right, when everything thing we try to do meets with opposition- there's not a thing wrong with saying, "I need to take a break!" We step away, for a day or take a week's vacation, and try to regain perspective. A prayer retreat, where we get alone with our thoughts and God, letting it all out with a flood of words (and maybe some tears, too), can help to restore us to effectiveness. God has taught me this, too - at the end of myself, He's able to step in and do amazingly wonderful things. It's true! When I give up, when I throw my hands up in frustration saying, "I don't know what to do," God finds an opening!
Don't misunderstand what that means. When "God steps in" that doesn't mean we get to feel better, that we enjoy vindication, or that everyone around falls in line with our program. It means that we give away the need to be right, the desire to have it done our way, and/or the need for recognition. Ego must die (again and again!) so that the Spirit-life can emerge. Letting God take over is a costly, deathly choice, that provides a way for His plan to take root and grow bringing new life. Often those who have opposed us even rejoice thinking that they have prevailed against us! "God knows!" is what I tell myself in those moments. He knows what I've done, why I've done it, and His approval is what matters most!
Are you ready to quit today? Can you find a way to do a strategic retreat? Is there an honest counselor (no, not someone who will just tell you that you're right!) who will help you unravel the knots? James teaches us - "let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." (James 1:4, KJV)
Here's the complete thought. Take this word from the Word with you today. "So let endurance grow, for when it is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything. If you need wisdom—if you want to know what God wants you to do—ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind." (James 1:4-6, NLT)
Steady on - for God's glory.
Monday, January 23, 2006
A sure thing?
When the NFL play-offs started, the guys in the box were talking about the destiny of the Patriots, about Brady's mystique in winning post-season games. Despite a disappointing season, as it looked like NE was ' a sure thing' until they met the Broncos in Mile High Stadium a week ago. With that loss, the Pats dropped off the radar. (For all you Steeler fans, I've got to admit that they looked great yesterday against those same Broncos. What an offense!) Life is full of 'sure things' that don't turn out to be so sure, isn't it? Enron was a the company of the future, a sure place to put your money, in 2001. Today, the stock certificates are worthless, except as souvenirs! Remember the Democratic primary a couple of years ago? Howard Dean looked like the sure thing to take the nomination until the wheels fell off his campaign bus in Iowa! Who can forget the 'Dean scream' that filled the news for 24 hours in January, 2004?
Sports, politics, investments... there are no sure things, no inevitable results. Ben Franklin advised that there were only two things in this life we can count on; death and taxes! True enough. Had he read what God promises about one of those certainties? The Bible says, "Everyone has to die once, then face the consequences." Grim news? Could be, but there is an additional promise attached to that line: "Christ’s death was also a one-time event, but it was a sacrifice that took care of sins forever. And so, when he next appears, the outcome for those eager to greet him is, precisely, salvation." (Hebrews 9:27-28, The Message)
Barbara Walters spoke with Ted Haggard, Pastor of New Life Church and President of the National Association of Evangelicals, on a special aired recently called, "Heaven." She pressed him about whether a person had to be a Christian to go to Heaven. I loved his response. "If you want a sure reservation; if you want to know that you know, then the way is Christ!" She tried to get him to say that adherents of other religions were not going to be in heaven, but he stuck with that declaration. Do you want to know that you know that you will spend Eternity with God? Then, trust Christ, love Him, and begin to live eternally - NOW! It's the one sure thing in a world marked by uncertainties.
The hope of Heaven is not just 'pie in the sky, by and by,' nor it is an escapist fantasy for dealing with life's disappointment. Having Heaven as our eternal home will powerfully effect the way we live right now. John says, "Yes, dear friends, we are already God’s children, and we can’t even imagine what we will be like when Christ returns. But we do know that when he comes we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is. And all who believe this will keep themselves pure, just as Christ is pure." (1 John 3:2-3, NLT)
Thank God for the sure thing of your home in Heaven, through Christ Jesus. Let that promise soak into your mind and heart, changing your perspective on life today. And, live through the disappointments of life, steady in faith, full of hope, and consequently - filled with the character and courage of Jesus Christ who because He "never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God— could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God." (Hebrews 12:2, The Message)
___________________
"Father God, I am looking over the week that lies ahead,
planning, scheduling.
Fix in my mind and my heart that promise of Heaven.
Help me to live, today, as a citizen of your forever Kingdom!
Keep me from pettiness, from short-sighted choices that are not worthy of your high calling.
When the disappointments of a uncertain world threaten to make me depressed,
or to turn me into a cynic, let me see Heaven that waits.
Jesus, let us keep company with You today,
so that when our appointment with You comes, be it sooner or later,
we can walk confidently from time into eternity.
Amen."
Sports, politics, investments... there are no sure things, no inevitable results. Ben Franklin advised that there were only two things in this life we can count on; death and taxes! True enough. Had he read what God promises about one of those certainties? The Bible says, "Everyone has to die once, then face the consequences." Grim news? Could be, but there is an additional promise attached to that line: "Christ’s death was also a one-time event, but it was a sacrifice that took care of sins forever. And so, when he next appears, the outcome for those eager to greet him is, precisely, salvation." (Hebrews 9:27-28, The Message)
Barbara Walters spoke with Ted Haggard, Pastor of New Life Church and President of the National Association of Evangelicals, on a special aired recently called, "Heaven." She pressed him about whether a person had to be a Christian to go to Heaven. I loved his response. "If you want a sure reservation; if you want to know that you know, then the way is Christ!" She tried to get him to say that adherents of other religions were not going to be in heaven, but he stuck with that declaration. Do you want to know that you know that you will spend Eternity with God? Then, trust Christ, love Him, and begin to live eternally - NOW! It's the one sure thing in a world marked by uncertainties.
The hope of Heaven is not just 'pie in the sky, by and by,' nor it is an escapist fantasy for dealing with life's disappointment. Having Heaven as our eternal home will powerfully effect the way we live right now. John says, "Yes, dear friends, we are already God’s children, and we can’t even imagine what we will be like when Christ returns. But we do know that when he comes we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is. And all who believe this will keep themselves pure, just as Christ is pure." (1 John 3:2-3, NLT)
Thank God for the sure thing of your home in Heaven, through Christ Jesus. Let that promise soak into your mind and heart, changing your perspective on life today. And, live through the disappointments of life, steady in faith, full of hope, and consequently - filled with the character and courage of Jesus Christ who because He "never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God— could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God." (Hebrews 12:2, The Message)
___________________
"Father God, I am looking over the week that lies ahead,
planning, scheduling.
Fix in my mind and my heart that promise of Heaven.
Help me to live, today, as a citizen of your forever Kingdom!
Keep me from pettiness, from short-sighted choices that are not worthy of your high calling.
When the disappointments of a uncertain world threaten to make me depressed,
or to turn me into a cynic, let me see Heaven that waits.
Jesus, let us keep company with You today,
so that when our appointment with You comes, be it sooner or later,
we can walk confidently from time into eternity.
Amen."
Friday, January 20, 2006
Image vs. Reality
"How'm I doing?" was the signature line of 'Hizzoner' Ed Koch, during his three terms as mayor of New York City. Whenever, wherever he appeared in public, he would ask the crowd, "How'm I doing?" Apparently he did all right because he was elected 3 times. Did Mayor Koch really want to know how he was doing his job, or was he just using a popular line? Was he really seeking a substantive answer or would his question have been better framed as "How do I appear to be doing?" I have no idea, but I do know that I ask myself from time to time - "how are you doing, Jerry?"
There's a temptation to answer that question based on appearances alone. "Am I looking good?" is, for many of us, equal to "am I really doing well?" We live in a time of image. Billions of dollars in our economy are spent to cultivate an appearance of success, of youth, of intelligence. It starts when we we're young and we feel the pressure to buy the right 'label.' It continues as grow up with living in the 'right' kind of neighborhood, driving the 'right' kind of car.... you get the point. But all this image-making can get confused with reality and we can lose touch with the answer to the question, "How'm I doing?" The choice to cultivate image over reality is deadly, especially in spiritual matters!
Then, too, we might try to answer that question, "how'm I doing?' based on how others see our performance. That's a temptation for me as a Pastor, and I suspect for most of you, too, whatever your work or calling. I want the people in the church I lead to think of me as competent, hard-working, honest, and spiritual. There's nothing wrong with that, unless I start doing things that are out of sync with my inner reality, to try to make others think I'm someone that I'm not. Truthfully, it's not too hard to impress others, for a while anyway. Just say the right word at the opportune moment, show up and do what you say you will do, keep the machine oiled and running -- and most people -- will say, "He's all right!" But under an outer layer of respectability, lies the real you, the person who needs to asked often - "How'm I doing?"
That's why I periodically take time to reflect using hard questions --
Do my private thoughts match my public words?
Do my secret prayers line up with my pulpit prayers?
Does my level of affection for God's people in my heart equal my professions of love?
Is God first in my mind and heart, or just when I 'on-stage?'
Bill Hybels wrote a book with a great title and a better message -- "Who you are when no one's looking." That's the place to look when evaluating. Jesus reminds us of a sobering fact. Reality is eventually discovered! He said it in these words: A good person produces good deeds from a good heart, and an evil person produces evil deeds from an evil heart. Whatever is in your heart determines what you say. “So why do you call me ‘Lord,’ when you won’t obey me?" (Luke 6:45-46, NLT) That's why religion never pleases God if it's focused only on changing external behaviors. It's not enough that He merely appear to be our Lord. He must be Lord of all, or He is not Lord at all.
With enough coercion or pressure, most of us can be made to conform our actions and words to some externally imposed standard. We can hold that conformity for quite while, depending our self-discipline, but our true self will always emerge. Usually that happens in the 'crunch!' When things go bad, when the heat is turned up, when we hit wall after wall-- our true character is revealed. Images crumble in those times. That's why now is the time to seek the Spirit's transformational power. As we ask ourselves, "How'm I doing?" it needs to be a kind of prayer that invites the Holy Spirit to help us to see under the surface. David prayed, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life." (Psalm 139:23-24, NLT)
"How'm I doing, Lord?"
______________________________
Search me, O God, And know my heart today;
Try me, O Savior, Know my thoughts, I pray.
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from every sin and set me free.
I praise Thee, Lord, for cleansing me from sin;
Fulfill Thy Word, and make me pure within.
Fill me with fire where once I burned with shame;
Grant my desire to magnify Thy name.
Lord, take my life, and make it wholly Thine;
Fill my poor heart with Thy great love divine.
Take all my will, my passion, self and pride;
I now surrender, Lord, in me abide.
Cleanse Me, Edwin J. Orr
Copyright: Public Domain
There's a temptation to answer that question based on appearances alone. "Am I looking good?" is, for many of us, equal to "am I really doing well?" We live in a time of image. Billions of dollars in our economy are spent to cultivate an appearance of success, of youth, of intelligence. It starts when we we're young and we feel the pressure to buy the right 'label.' It continues as grow up with living in the 'right' kind of neighborhood, driving the 'right' kind of car.... you get the point. But all this image-making can get confused with reality and we can lose touch with the answer to the question, "How'm I doing?" The choice to cultivate image over reality is deadly, especially in spiritual matters!
Then, too, we might try to answer that question, "how'm I doing?' based on how others see our performance. That's a temptation for me as a Pastor, and I suspect for most of you, too, whatever your work or calling. I want the people in the church I lead to think of me as competent, hard-working, honest, and spiritual. There's nothing wrong with that, unless I start doing things that are out of sync with my inner reality, to try to make others think I'm someone that I'm not. Truthfully, it's not too hard to impress others, for a while anyway. Just say the right word at the opportune moment, show up and do what you say you will do, keep the machine oiled and running -- and most people -- will say, "He's all right!" But under an outer layer of respectability, lies the real you, the person who needs to asked often - "How'm I doing?"
That's why I periodically take time to reflect using hard questions --
Do my private thoughts match my public words?
Do my secret prayers line up with my pulpit prayers?
Does my level of affection for God's people in my heart equal my professions of love?
Is God first in my mind and heart, or just when I 'on-stage?'
Bill Hybels wrote a book with a great title and a better message -- "Who you are when no one's looking." That's the place to look when evaluating. Jesus reminds us of a sobering fact. Reality is eventually discovered! He said it in these words: A good person produces good deeds from a good heart, and an evil person produces evil deeds from an evil heart. Whatever is in your heart determines what you say. “So why do you call me ‘Lord,’ when you won’t obey me?" (Luke 6:45-46, NLT) That's why religion never pleases God if it's focused only on changing external behaviors. It's not enough that He merely appear to be our Lord. He must be Lord of all, or He is not Lord at all.
With enough coercion or pressure, most of us can be made to conform our actions and words to some externally imposed standard. We can hold that conformity for quite while, depending our self-discipline, but our true self will always emerge. Usually that happens in the 'crunch!' When things go bad, when the heat is turned up, when we hit wall after wall-- our true character is revealed. Images crumble in those times. That's why now is the time to seek the Spirit's transformational power. As we ask ourselves, "How'm I doing?" it needs to be a kind of prayer that invites the Holy Spirit to help us to see under the surface. David prayed, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life." (Psalm 139:23-24, NLT)
"How'm I doing, Lord?"
______________________________
Search me, O God, And know my heart today;
Try me, O Savior, Know my thoughts, I pray.
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from every sin and set me free.
I praise Thee, Lord, for cleansing me from sin;
Fulfill Thy Word, and make me pure within.
Fill me with fire where once I burned with shame;
Grant my desire to magnify Thy name.
Lord, take my life, and make it wholly Thine;
Fill my poor heart with Thy great love divine.
Take all my will, my passion, self and pride;
I now surrender, Lord, in me abide.
Cleanse Me, Edwin J. Orr
Copyright: Public Domain
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Home in God?
Where do you 'dwell?' The word, which I read in a Psalm this morning, became the point of my mediation. To dwell means to be at home. I enjoy traveling, but I really enjoy coming home- more so the older I get! If you visit the church office that I call my 'home' a few hours everyday, you don't have to be Sherlock Holmes to know you're in Jerry's place. There are family photos scattered around and there are mementos that have meaning only to me. My stuff is there. Legal documents, books, letters addressed to me - let you know that 'Jerry lives here.' I love getting to our house, too. When I step through the front door, the familiar surroundings invite me to relax. Unlike a sterile hotel room, my house is arranged to fit my needs, because I dwell there!
In Psalm 91, there is this promise: "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” (Psalm 91:1-2, NIV) Great line, right? Sure is, but those words are not just 'a line.' They are true words. We can really trust God and live securely. Who doesn't need security? Life's a fragile thing. We can be brought down by a microscopic virus or a few rogue cells that become malignant. Our friends can betray us for reasons they alone understand. Companies that employ us collapse or the CEO decides to send our job to India. There are the 'wars and rumors of wars,' that swirl around us. In that scenario of dangerous possibilities, the child of God says, "I trust God, and I am safely secure." Well, sometimes; but often we are afraid. Why? Because we do not 'dwell... and rest in the shadow of the Almighty.' What does that really mean?
A couple of lines later in the Psalm there is this descriptive phrase: "He will shield you with his wings. He will shelter you with his feathers." (Psalm 91:4, NLT) The picture is that of a mother hen sensing danger and calling her chicks to the safety of her covering. When I was a little boy, I tended the chickens on the farm. Dad loved to hatch chicks and I saw those little fluffy chicks; who were totally helpless on their own, completely vulnerable, respond to the urgent clucks of the hen who had extended her wings, run and disappear under her in the soft down of her breast feathers! When she settled down, there was no evidence that she had hidden 8-10 little chicks. Their safety was found in proximity!
God invites you and me to stay close to Him, hidden from the searing heat of life by His shadow, secure because we stay in His Presence. Does this mean that we need to live in the church sanctuary, that we have to have an open Bible always in our hand? No. His invitation to us is that we keep our hearts and minds 'at home' in Him. When we become aware that we are being drawn away from trusting Him by an illusion of self-sufficiency, or that we are looking for meaning in the 'stuff' of life- we will intentionally return our attention to Him. It means we won't give sin an anchor in our mind, that we will recognize and reject temptations when they arise from the world, the sinful nature, or the evil forces that are intent on our destruction. It means that when the Spirit calls us to turn our attention or change the channel, we will run, not walk to Him. And as we make our home in Him, we are secure.
Jesus invites us to dwell, too, but He uses a different word. He invites us to 'remain in Me.' He explains His invitation this way. “Live in me. Make your home in me just as I do in you. In the same way that a branch can’t bear grapes by itself but only by being joined to the vine, you can’t bear fruit unless you are joined with me. “I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing. Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire. But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon. This is how my Father shows who he is—when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples." (John 15:4-8, The Message)
Are you 'at home' in God's Presence?
Spend enough time with Him to make His Presence become your home.
Here's a word about a man who followed God to his home. Let it speak to you about your destiny, your spiritual home today. "By an act of faith, Abraham said yes to God’s call to travel to an unknown place that would become his home. When he left he had no idea where he was going. By an act of faith he lived in the country promised him, lived as a stranger camping in tents. Isaac and Jacob did the same, living under the same promise. Abraham did it by keeping his eye on an unseen city with real, eternal foundations—the City designed and built by God." (Hebrews 11:8-10, The Message)
__________________________
Feeling at home in the presence of Jesus,
Hearing Him call me His own.
Just feeling at home, feeling at home.
Putting my feet right under His table,
Knowing I won't be alone.
Just feeling at home, feeling at home.
You couldn't have told me
I'd find what I found.
Contentment and peace from above.
Feeling at home in the presence of Jesus,
Laying way back in His love.
Warming myself by the fires of His Spirit,
Camping right close to His throne.
Just feeling at home, feeling at home.
Feeling At Home In The Presence Of Jesus
Copyright: 1975 William J. Gaither, Inc. ARR UBP of Gaither Copyright Management
In Psalm 91, there is this promise: "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” (Psalm 91:1-2, NIV) Great line, right? Sure is, but those words are not just 'a line.' They are true words. We can really trust God and live securely. Who doesn't need security? Life's a fragile thing. We can be brought down by a microscopic virus or a few rogue cells that become malignant. Our friends can betray us for reasons they alone understand. Companies that employ us collapse or the CEO decides to send our job to India. There are the 'wars and rumors of wars,' that swirl around us. In that scenario of dangerous possibilities, the child of God says, "I trust God, and I am safely secure." Well, sometimes; but often we are afraid. Why? Because we do not 'dwell... and rest in the shadow of the Almighty.' What does that really mean?
A couple of lines later in the Psalm there is this descriptive phrase: "He will shield you with his wings. He will shelter you with his feathers." (Psalm 91:4, NLT) The picture is that of a mother hen sensing danger and calling her chicks to the safety of her covering. When I was a little boy, I tended the chickens on the farm. Dad loved to hatch chicks and I saw those little fluffy chicks; who were totally helpless on their own, completely vulnerable, respond to the urgent clucks of the hen who had extended her wings, run and disappear under her in the soft down of her breast feathers! When she settled down, there was no evidence that she had hidden 8-10 little chicks. Their safety was found in proximity!
God invites you and me to stay close to Him, hidden from the searing heat of life by His shadow, secure because we stay in His Presence. Does this mean that we need to live in the church sanctuary, that we have to have an open Bible always in our hand? No. His invitation to us is that we keep our hearts and minds 'at home' in Him. When we become aware that we are being drawn away from trusting Him by an illusion of self-sufficiency, or that we are looking for meaning in the 'stuff' of life- we will intentionally return our attention to Him. It means we won't give sin an anchor in our mind, that we will recognize and reject temptations when they arise from the world, the sinful nature, or the evil forces that are intent on our destruction. It means that when the Spirit calls us to turn our attention or change the channel, we will run, not walk to Him. And as we make our home in Him, we are secure.
Jesus invites us to dwell, too, but He uses a different word. He invites us to 'remain in Me.' He explains His invitation this way. “Live in me. Make your home in me just as I do in you. In the same way that a branch can’t bear grapes by itself but only by being joined to the vine, you can’t bear fruit unless you are joined with me. “I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing. Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire. But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon. This is how my Father shows who he is—when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples." (John 15:4-8, The Message)
Are you 'at home' in God's Presence?
Spend enough time with Him to make His Presence become your home.
Here's a word about a man who followed God to his home. Let it speak to you about your destiny, your spiritual home today. "By an act of faith, Abraham said yes to God’s call to travel to an unknown place that would become his home. When he left he had no idea where he was going. By an act of faith he lived in the country promised him, lived as a stranger camping in tents. Isaac and Jacob did the same, living under the same promise. Abraham did it by keeping his eye on an unseen city with real, eternal foundations—the City designed and built by God." (Hebrews 11:8-10, The Message)
__________________________
Feeling at home in the presence of Jesus,
Hearing Him call me His own.
Just feeling at home, feeling at home.
Putting my feet right under His table,
Knowing I won't be alone.
Just feeling at home, feeling at home.
You couldn't have told me
I'd find what I found.
Contentment and peace from above.
Feeling at home in the presence of Jesus,
Laying way back in His love.
Warming myself by the fires of His Spirit,
Camping right close to His throne.
Just feeling at home, feeling at home.
Feeling At Home In The Presence Of Jesus
Copyright: 1975 William J. Gaither, Inc. ARR UBP of Gaither Copyright Management
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Faithful love
The first time the preacher saw her dark eyes he felt the magnetic attraction. He quickly fell in love. It wasn't just her hair though it was gorgeous! It was more than the beauty of her face, or the curves of her body. She knew exactly how to make him feel like he was the most wonderful man in the world, for she was practiced in the ways of seduction; which was exactly what concerned his friends. They warned him about her 'reputation,' but he was too far gone to hear any caution and he married her. In quick succession, two sons and a daughter were borne into their family.
And then - the preacher felt her slipping away. She disappeared for entire days and came home with smudges of make-up clinging to her face, evidence of her adultery that broke his heart. She complained outright to the preacher about what he provided for her, brazenly telling of other lovers who showered her with gifts. Then, she was gone. He mourned, his anger was powerful, but his love even stronger! Months past, and word came that his wife was being sold, a slave! When her beauty was ravaged by her promiscuity, when she no longer attracted the lovers who kept her, she fell into debt and was to be sold to settle those debts, so he went and bought back his own wife! With tenderness and forgiveness he brought her home, renewed their covenant. His love won over her unfaithfulness!
Recognize that story? It's true and it's from the Bible. Read it in the little book of Hosea. He is the prophet who loved a woman who prostituted herself, abandoned him and her children, who was nearly destroyed by her unbridled lust and selfishness. But Hosea loved Gomer and restored her though she was unworthy and even unrepentant, at first.
Why is such a sordid story in the Bible? To tell us about God's love for His people! Listen to Him mourn their unfaithfulness. “Oh, how can I give you up, Israel? How can I let you go? How can I destroy you...? My heart is torn within me, and my compassion overflows. No, I will not punish you as much as my burning anger tells me to. I will not completely destroy Israel, for I am God and not a mere mortal. I am the Holy One living among you, and I will not come to destroy. “For someday the people will follow the Lord. I will roar like a lion, and my people will return trembling from the west. Like a flock of birds, they will come from Egypt. Flying like doves, they will return from Assyria. And I will bring them home again,” says the Lord." (Hosea 11:8-12, NLT)
We need the stories! The theology that informs our mind must be wed with the stories that take hold of our hearts! When I combine John's declaration that "God so loved the world," with Hosea's story, I start to understand that God's love is more than a concept, more than a philosophy. He is my God, my lover, Who desires to know me. And, too, I begin to understand that my disobedience and my desire for the gods of wealth, success, fame, or sensuality rips at a covenant of love, causing God to mourn like a husband abandoned by his beloved wife.
Those who only see the raging God, who think that God is but a cruel Master, need to read this passage. Listen to the heart of our Lover. “And now, here’s what I’m going to do: I’m going to start all over again. I’m taking her back out into the wilderness where we had our first date, and I’ll court her. I’ll give her bouquets of roses. I’ll turn Heartbreak Valley into Acres of Hope. She’ll respond like she did as a young girl, those days when she was fresh out of Egypt. “At that time”—this is God’s Message still— “you’ll address me, ‘Dear husband!’ Never again will you address me, ‘My slave-master!’" (Hosea 2:14-16, The Message)
Do you love Him, Believer?
Or do you linger in your fantasies of other loves, pulling away from Him?
Do you spend time with Him, pursue Him, wait for His purposes in your life?
He loves you! Even if you're far away, even if you've given yourself to other loves, He will restore you.
That's the meaning of redemption through Christ Jesus. We were sold into slavery by our disobedience, but He paid the price to bring us home.
Believe it today! It is a life-transforming story.
____________________
The love of God is greater far,
Than tongue or pen can ever tell,
It goes beyond the highest star
And reaches to the lowest hell;
The guilty pair, bowed down with care,
God gave His Son to win;
His erring child He reconciled
And pardoned from his sin.
Could we with ink the ocean fill
And were the skies of parchment made,
Were ev'ry stalk on earth a quill
And ev'ry man a scribe by trade.
To write the love of God above
Would drain the ocean dry;
Nor could the scroll contain the whole
Tho stretched from sky to sky.
ChorusO love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure,
The saints' and angels' song.
The Love Of God- Lehman, Frederick M.
Copyright: Public Domain
And then - the preacher felt her slipping away. She disappeared for entire days and came home with smudges of make-up clinging to her face, evidence of her adultery that broke his heart. She complained outright to the preacher about what he provided for her, brazenly telling of other lovers who showered her with gifts. Then, she was gone. He mourned, his anger was powerful, but his love even stronger! Months past, and word came that his wife was being sold, a slave! When her beauty was ravaged by her promiscuity, when she no longer attracted the lovers who kept her, she fell into debt and was to be sold to settle those debts, so he went and bought back his own wife! With tenderness and forgiveness he brought her home, renewed their covenant. His love won over her unfaithfulness!
Recognize that story? It's true and it's from the Bible. Read it in the little book of Hosea. He is the prophet who loved a woman who prostituted herself, abandoned him and her children, who was nearly destroyed by her unbridled lust and selfishness. But Hosea loved Gomer and restored her though she was unworthy and even unrepentant, at first.
Why is such a sordid story in the Bible? To tell us about God's love for His people! Listen to Him mourn their unfaithfulness. “Oh, how can I give you up, Israel? How can I let you go? How can I destroy you...? My heart is torn within me, and my compassion overflows. No, I will not punish you as much as my burning anger tells me to. I will not completely destroy Israel, for I am God and not a mere mortal. I am the Holy One living among you, and I will not come to destroy. “For someday the people will follow the Lord. I will roar like a lion, and my people will return trembling from the west. Like a flock of birds, they will come from Egypt. Flying like doves, they will return from Assyria. And I will bring them home again,” says the Lord." (Hosea 11:8-12, NLT)
We need the stories! The theology that informs our mind must be wed with the stories that take hold of our hearts! When I combine John's declaration that "God so loved the world," with Hosea's story, I start to understand that God's love is more than a concept, more than a philosophy. He is my God, my lover, Who desires to know me. And, too, I begin to understand that my disobedience and my desire for the gods of wealth, success, fame, or sensuality rips at a covenant of love, causing God to mourn like a husband abandoned by his beloved wife.
Those who only see the raging God, who think that God is but a cruel Master, need to read this passage. Listen to the heart of our Lover. “And now, here’s what I’m going to do: I’m going to start all over again. I’m taking her back out into the wilderness where we had our first date, and I’ll court her. I’ll give her bouquets of roses. I’ll turn Heartbreak Valley into Acres of Hope. She’ll respond like she did as a young girl, those days when she was fresh out of Egypt. “At that time”—this is God’s Message still— “you’ll address me, ‘Dear husband!’ Never again will you address me, ‘My slave-master!’" (Hosea 2:14-16, The Message)
Do you love Him, Believer?
Or do you linger in your fantasies of other loves, pulling away from Him?
Do you spend time with Him, pursue Him, wait for His purposes in your life?
He loves you! Even if you're far away, even if you've given yourself to other loves, He will restore you.
That's the meaning of redemption through Christ Jesus. We were sold into slavery by our disobedience, but He paid the price to bring us home.
Believe it today! It is a life-transforming story.
____________________
The love of God is greater far,
Than tongue or pen can ever tell,
It goes beyond the highest star
And reaches to the lowest hell;
The guilty pair, bowed down with care,
God gave His Son to win;
His erring child He reconciled
And pardoned from his sin.
Could we with ink the ocean fill
And were the skies of parchment made,
Were ev'ry stalk on earth a quill
And ev'ry man a scribe by trade.
To write the love of God above
Would drain the ocean dry;
Nor could the scroll contain the whole
Tho stretched from sky to sky.
ChorusO love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure,
The saints' and angels' song.
The Love Of God- Lehman, Frederick M.
Copyright: Public Domain
Monday, January 16, 2006
Specks in the eye
In the middle of delivering my sermon yesterday, a car horn started to blare in the lower parking lot. After a moment, I noticed the congregation's attention was wandering along with my own! I wondered, "why doesn't somebody take care of that?" Of course, what was to be done? Were two dozen people supposed to stand up and go out to check their car? After another moment I paused, and, with some irritation evident (that's what my wife tells me, anyway) said, "I'll just wait until the noise stops before I continue." A moment later the horn stopped sounding. At the end of the service, Jeremy approached and said, with a mischievous smile on his face, "It was your car, Pastor!" I expected someone else to take care of a situation that was really 'my problem' because, even though my car was parked in that lot, 'it couldn't be my vehicle.' When I found out that my car was the 'offender,' I was a little embarrassed and a lot amused!
Have you ever done that; made 'your problem,' into 'his problem' blind to the possibility that at least part of responsibility belongs to you?
Over the years I've been asked to counsel dozens of couples through a tough spot in their marriage. In many of those situations, as soon as the couple starts to talk to me I can see that she thinks it's his problem, and he thinks it her problem! An impasse forms around the issue, as each waits for the other to initiate change. Neither will own any responsibility. Pride is strong, isn't it? That little phrase, "I was wrong!" sticks in our throat. We find it so hard to ask questions that might lead us to discover where we bear some responsibility for a misunderstanding, for pain, for a broken relationship.
In his famed Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warned about the lack of humility that can cause us to blame, point, judge, and accuse. He drove home his point with a funny little metaphor, but a powerful one we all can understand. He said, “Stop judging others, and you will not be judged. For others will treat you as you treat them. Whatever measure you use in judging others, it will be used to measure how you are judged. And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log from your own eye; then perhaps you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye." (Matthew 7:1-5, NLT) Everytime I read that passage, a ridiculous mental image forms of a person leaning in close to another's face looking for a speck of sawdust, even as the branch in their own eye smacks the other person in the side of the head every time they try to maneuver a little closer to 'help' out!
Only God can save us from a self-righteous arrogance that says, "It's not me, therefore, it must be you!" The Message, a contemporary paraphrase of the Bible, loses the direct metaphor, but helps us grasp the principle of which Jesus was speaking: "It’s easy to see a smudge on your neighbor’s face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, ‘Let me wash your face for you,’ when your own face is distorted by contempt? It’s this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor." (Matthew 7:3-5, The Message)
Something bugging you at home, at work?
Have you assumed that the problem must belong to the other person, like I did in church yesterday?
Humbly re-consider that defensive stance. As Jesus taught us, let's adopt the humility of a child.
Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where you may have a part in creating the difficulty, keeping an offense alive, causing a stressful situation to become worse by blaming; then, with His help, begin to make a difference.
____________________
"Father, as I begin a new week,
I thank you for the opportunities that You are preparing for me at this moment:
opportunities to love someone in need,
opportunities to care, to pray, to minister Your grace.
Thank You, Lord, for loving me and reaching out to me when the problem really was my problem!
'While I was still sinning, ignoring You, You loved me,' and that is amazing and wonderful, Lord.
Keep me near to You today, responsive to Your leading,
loving God and others, obedient and holy.
This I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen."
Have you ever done that; made 'your problem,' into 'his problem' blind to the possibility that at least part of responsibility belongs to you?
Over the years I've been asked to counsel dozens of couples through a tough spot in their marriage. In many of those situations, as soon as the couple starts to talk to me I can see that she thinks it's his problem, and he thinks it her problem! An impasse forms around the issue, as each waits for the other to initiate change. Neither will own any responsibility. Pride is strong, isn't it? That little phrase, "I was wrong!" sticks in our throat. We find it so hard to ask questions that might lead us to discover where we bear some responsibility for a misunderstanding, for pain, for a broken relationship.
In his famed Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warned about the lack of humility that can cause us to blame, point, judge, and accuse. He drove home his point with a funny little metaphor, but a powerful one we all can understand. He said, “Stop judging others, and you will not be judged. For others will treat you as you treat them. Whatever measure you use in judging others, it will be used to measure how you are judged. And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log from your own eye; then perhaps you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye." (Matthew 7:1-5, NLT) Everytime I read that passage, a ridiculous mental image forms of a person leaning in close to another's face looking for a speck of sawdust, even as the branch in their own eye smacks the other person in the side of the head every time they try to maneuver a little closer to 'help' out!
Only God can save us from a self-righteous arrogance that says, "It's not me, therefore, it must be you!" The Message, a contemporary paraphrase of the Bible, loses the direct metaphor, but helps us grasp the principle of which Jesus was speaking: "It’s easy to see a smudge on your neighbor’s face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, ‘Let me wash your face for you,’ when your own face is distorted by contempt? It’s this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor." (Matthew 7:3-5, The Message)
Something bugging you at home, at work?
Have you assumed that the problem must belong to the other person, like I did in church yesterday?
Humbly re-consider that defensive stance. As Jesus taught us, let's adopt the humility of a child.
Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where you may have a part in creating the difficulty, keeping an offense alive, causing a stressful situation to become worse by blaming; then, with His help, begin to make a difference.
____________________
"Father, as I begin a new week,
I thank you for the opportunities that You are preparing for me at this moment:
opportunities to love someone in need,
opportunities to care, to pray, to minister Your grace.
Thank You, Lord, for loving me and reaching out to me when the problem really was my problem!
'While I was still sinning, ignoring You, You loved me,' and that is amazing and wonderful, Lord.
Keep me near to You today, responsive to Your leading,
loving God and others, obedient and holy.
This I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen."
Friday, January 13, 2006
You matter to me!
"Pastor Jerry, look! Pastor Jerry, Pastor Jerry..." The little voice drifted into my consciousness, though the child speaking was just a few feet away, I was so focused on the task at hand that I had shut out everything and everyone else for the moment. It happened yesterday while I was at our Christian school trying to figure out why one of the PC's wasn't connecting to the network. (Turned out to be the simplest problem - a disconnected cable!) I wanted to solve the problem and though I was in a room full of 1st graders, they were 'invisible' to me because I was not paying any attention to them. A child simply wanted a moment's notice and when I 'tuned in' to her, her face beamed with delight as she displayed her work for my approval. My attention, in a matter of such small consequence, communicated "you matter to me!" My failure to pay attention sent an unintended negative message, "You are not a person of worth."
If we love people like God wants us to, we will set aside pre-occupation with our agenda and involve ourselves with them. We will pay attention, listen, and help out as we are able. Too often we think that showing God's love requires the great sacrifice, the grand gesture. We demonstrate the love that God desires us to show to others in ordinary situations.
Here's how Jesus reminds us of our worth to the Omnipotent God of the Universe -
“What’s the price of a pet canary? Some loose change, right? And God cares what happens to it even more than you do. He pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail—even numbering the hairs on your head!" (Matthew 10:29-30, The Message) Isn't that mind-boggling?
God loves us, not generally, but specifically! He would have us to love in the same way - not just with sweeping rhetoric - but with focused love for the individuals that surround us. Our natural inclination is to go through life fitting people into our agenda; having good intentions, but focused on our own immediate needs. We mean to love, but 'not right now' because we're busy! And, we're always busy. We plan to share with those in need, 'when we get enough' resources accumulated, which never happens.
Dad, you want your child to know that he is a person of worth? Pay attention to him NOW.
Husband, you want your wife to know that you love her? Listen to her - noting her needs, desires, hopes! Really take part in her life! (It works the other way 'round, too.)
I was reading some select passages from the OT prophets yesterday. One of the things that stood out to me was how often God expressed His disapproval of His people, not just for the 'biggie' sins like worshipping false gods or gross sexual immorality; but for their disregard of the poor, their oppression of the weak, depriving the 'little guys' of justice in the courts. Take a look at this passage from Amos. "...You trample the poor and steal what little they have through taxes and unfair rent. Therefore, you will never live in the beautiful stone houses you are building. You will never drink wine from the lush vineyards you are planting. For I know the vast number of your sins and rebellions. You oppress good people by taking bribes and deprive the poor of justice in the courts." (Amos 5:10-12, NLT)
Christian, we do not please God just by scrupulous morality or doing good things like going to church or paying our tithes. Those are good choices when they are an expression of our love for God. But Jesus reminds that there is a second great commandment, too. It is "love your neighbor as yourself!"
Here's a word from the Word to keep in your mind today:
"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence" (1 John 3:16-19, NIV)
If we love people like God wants us to, we will set aside pre-occupation with our agenda and involve ourselves with them. We will pay attention, listen, and help out as we are able. Too often we think that showing God's love requires the great sacrifice, the grand gesture. We demonstrate the love that God desires us to show to others in ordinary situations.
Here's how Jesus reminds us of our worth to the Omnipotent God of the Universe -
“What’s the price of a pet canary? Some loose change, right? And God cares what happens to it even more than you do. He pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail—even numbering the hairs on your head!" (Matthew 10:29-30, The Message) Isn't that mind-boggling?
God loves us, not generally, but specifically! He would have us to love in the same way - not just with sweeping rhetoric - but with focused love for the individuals that surround us. Our natural inclination is to go through life fitting people into our agenda; having good intentions, but focused on our own immediate needs. We mean to love, but 'not right now' because we're busy! And, we're always busy. We plan to share with those in need, 'when we get enough' resources accumulated, which never happens.
Dad, you want your child to know that he is a person of worth? Pay attention to him NOW.
Husband, you want your wife to know that you love her? Listen to her - noting her needs, desires, hopes! Really take part in her life! (It works the other way 'round, too.)
I was reading some select passages from the OT prophets yesterday. One of the things that stood out to me was how often God expressed His disapproval of His people, not just for the 'biggie' sins like worshipping false gods or gross sexual immorality; but for their disregard of the poor, their oppression of the weak, depriving the 'little guys' of justice in the courts. Take a look at this passage from Amos. "...You trample the poor and steal what little they have through taxes and unfair rent. Therefore, you will never live in the beautiful stone houses you are building. You will never drink wine from the lush vineyards you are planting. For I know the vast number of your sins and rebellions. You oppress good people by taking bribes and deprive the poor of justice in the courts." (Amos 5:10-12, NLT)
Christian, we do not please God just by scrupulous morality or doing good things like going to church or paying our tithes. Those are good choices when they are an expression of our love for God. But Jesus reminds that there is a second great commandment, too. It is "love your neighbor as yourself!"
Here's a word from the Word to keep in your mind today:
"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence" (1 John 3:16-19, NIV)
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Got Faith?
If you're reading TFTD, chances are you are a 'person of faith.' But what does that mean, anyway? Is faith, "thinking positively?" No. Is faith, "having a good feeling" about something? No! The famous line of Scripture from Hebrews tells us that "faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (11:1) Faith causes us to choose God's way even when that path is difficult, calls for self-denial, and/or leads us into conflict with prevailing wisdom. Why? Because faith connects this transitory world with the eternal, giving us a reason to obey God.
Faith can be very dangerous if it is not set in the context of submission to God. Some people express a self-fueled faith. They may quote promises from the Bible and appear outwardly to be living a faith-life. However, if you press them, you will discover they are using 'faith language' to force their own agenda. They try to make God act in ways they desire by throwing Bible verses in His face! God didn't give us the promises of the Bible so we could find a phrase, seize on it, and then 'make Him do what we want.' He gave us the promises of the Scripture so we would trust Him and submit ourselves to Him.
Take forgiveness as an example. Extending forgiveness can hard, right? A person told me recently, "If you knew my mother-in-law, you wouldn't ask me to forgive her. She's mean and controlling." I responded, "I'm not asking you to forgive her, God is demanding that you do so." This person was honest enough to say, "Well, I'm just not there!" We then talked about faith that causes us to be obedient - even when we can't see why we would even want to be. I cautioned that person about forgiving with the idea - "OK, if I forgive her, then she will change." Maybe she won't! Forgive because it is the command of God, because faith gives you the vision to see beyond yourself, your own comfort. Obedience is in trusting God's wisdom - a form of faith.
Faith frees us from the need to demand a certain outcome in life. Often walking the path of faith takes us into the unknown, pointing us in the direction where the road disappears into the fog! As Abraham led his beloved son, Isaac, along the road to Mt. Moriah, where God had directed him to sacrifice his only true heir, he could not see what was going to happen. "It was by faith that Abraham offered Isaac as a sacrifice when God was testing him. Abraham, who had received God’s promises, was ready to sacrifice his only son, Isaac." (Hebrews 11:17, NLT) The trip would have been easy IF the patriarch had known that a substitutionary ram would be presented, but he didn't until he obeyed and went all the way to the point of building the altar and laying his son on it. Then, God gave him his son back!
A 'faith' that demands miracles, that requires lists of 'answered prayers,' that is built around 'see I told you He is real' testimonies is shallow faith, focused on results rather than on God's rule and purpose. Faith that steadily trusts God even when life is dark, in the middle of uncertainty, in the fog of confusion is the kind of faith that I desire and admire. I know that not everyone who has real faith gets healed of their cancer, raises kids that are saints, or keeps their job when the economy goes bad! Faith is not a pass on the suffering of life in this fallen world. Faith is the connection to God that keeps us from hopelessness and despair those kinds of situations. It is what let's us keep trusting Him, obeying Him, when we look like a fool for doing so.
The writer of Hebrews points out the apparent 'failure' of the faith of some who did not enjoy a victorious outcome! He says,
"Others were tortured and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better resurrection.
Some faced jeers and flogging, while still others were chained and put in prison.
They were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword.
They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated— the world was not worthy of them.
They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground.
These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised.
God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect." (Hebrews 11:35-40, NIV)
Got faith? Make sure it is a faith in God, not a faith in faith!
_________________________
All things work for our good,
Though sometimes we can't see how they could.
Struggles that break our hearts in two
Sometimes blind us to the truth,
Our Father knows what's best for us;
His ways are not our own.
So when your pathway grows dim,
And you just can't see Him,
Remember, you're never alone,
He sees the master plan.
He holds the future in His hands.
So don't live as those who have no hope;
All our hope is found in Him.
We see the present clearly,
But He sees the first and the last.
And like a tapestry,
He's weaving you and me
To someday be just like Him.
God is too wise to be mistaken.
God is too good to be unkind.
So when you don't understand,
When you don't see His plan,
When you can't trace His hand,
Trust His heart.
Title: Trust His Heart
Author: Carswell, Eddie / Mason, Babbie
Copyright: 1989 Dayspring Music, Inc.
Faith can be very dangerous if it is not set in the context of submission to God. Some people express a self-fueled faith. They may quote promises from the Bible and appear outwardly to be living a faith-life. However, if you press them, you will discover they are using 'faith language' to force their own agenda. They try to make God act in ways they desire by throwing Bible verses in His face! God didn't give us the promises of the Bible so we could find a phrase, seize on it, and then 'make Him do what we want.' He gave us the promises of the Scripture so we would trust Him and submit ourselves to Him.
Take forgiveness as an example. Extending forgiveness can hard, right? A person told me recently, "If you knew my mother-in-law, you wouldn't ask me to forgive her. She's mean and controlling." I responded, "I'm not asking you to forgive her, God is demanding that you do so." This person was honest enough to say, "Well, I'm just not there!" We then talked about faith that causes us to be obedient - even when we can't see why we would even want to be. I cautioned that person about forgiving with the idea - "OK, if I forgive her, then she will change." Maybe she won't! Forgive because it is the command of God, because faith gives you the vision to see beyond yourself, your own comfort. Obedience is in trusting God's wisdom - a form of faith.
Faith frees us from the need to demand a certain outcome in life. Often walking the path of faith takes us into the unknown, pointing us in the direction where the road disappears into the fog! As Abraham led his beloved son, Isaac, along the road to Mt. Moriah, where God had directed him to sacrifice his only true heir, he could not see what was going to happen. "It was by faith that Abraham offered Isaac as a sacrifice when God was testing him. Abraham, who had received God’s promises, was ready to sacrifice his only son, Isaac." (Hebrews 11:17, NLT) The trip would have been easy IF the patriarch had known that a substitutionary ram would be presented, but he didn't until he obeyed and went all the way to the point of building the altar and laying his son on it. Then, God gave him his son back!
A 'faith' that demands miracles, that requires lists of 'answered prayers,' that is built around 'see I told you He is real' testimonies is shallow faith, focused on results rather than on God's rule and purpose. Faith that steadily trusts God even when life is dark, in the middle of uncertainty, in the fog of confusion is the kind of faith that I desire and admire. I know that not everyone who has real faith gets healed of their cancer, raises kids that are saints, or keeps their job when the economy goes bad! Faith is not a pass on the suffering of life in this fallen world. Faith is the connection to God that keeps us from hopelessness and despair those kinds of situations. It is what let's us keep trusting Him, obeying Him, when we look like a fool for doing so.
The writer of Hebrews points out the apparent 'failure' of the faith of some who did not enjoy a victorious outcome! He says,
"Others were tortured and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better resurrection.
Some faced jeers and flogging, while still others were chained and put in prison.
They were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword.
They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated— the world was not worthy of them.
They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground.
These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised.
God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect." (Hebrews 11:35-40, NIV)
Got faith? Make sure it is a faith in God, not a faith in faith!
_________________________
All things work for our good,
Though sometimes we can't see how they could.
Struggles that break our hearts in two
Sometimes blind us to the truth,
Our Father knows what's best for us;
His ways are not our own.
So when your pathway grows dim,
And you just can't see Him,
Remember, you're never alone,
He sees the master plan.
He holds the future in His hands.
So don't live as those who have no hope;
All our hope is found in Him.
We see the present clearly,
But He sees the first and the last.
And like a tapestry,
He's weaving you and me
To someday be just like Him.
God is too wise to be mistaken.
God is too good to be unkind.
So when you don't understand,
When you don't see His plan,
When you can't trace His hand,
Trust His heart.
Title: Trust His Heart
Author: Carswell, Eddie / Mason, Babbie
Copyright: 1989 Dayspring Music, Inc.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Approved - by God.
We are all finding our place in the world. Questions of security, of belonging, of personal worth are a part of life. If we are insecure, those questions become very important and we spend a lot of time measuring ourselves, evaluating how others are treating us, seeking affirmation. Just look at your average teenage girl. At age 14, most people have not yet developed a strong sense of identity. That is why teens move in groups and work so hard to conform to the popular norms. For example, the label on their jeans is a critical thing - because it is a way to 'fit in.'
Some persons never really move out of that time of life emotionally even well into adulthood. They crave the approval and acceptance of friends and family. The opinions of others - about their work, the way they are raising their kids, the kind of car they drive, even the way they tend their yard - defines them. They are like a puppet on string, dancing on life's stage - but because someone else tugs at them; first this way, then that. Persons who live for approval of others will constantly be adjusting their image, trying to conceal those parts of their life that they think are unacceptable. They do not even know who they really are.
One of the wonderful benefits of being a Christian is the discovery of God's amazing love, offered to us, NOT on the basis of our beauty, brains, or brawn; but just because we are! As we learn of God's love, as shown in Jesus Christ, and respond to Him with love, we gain a security and a sense of identity that allows us to live openly and honestly, becoming holy men and women. Yes it is true. Religion produces hypocrites, because it is about human performance, about doing good works, about meeting the expectations of God- as defined by others. A grace-based relationship with God produces a whole person because it about being loved powerfully, by One who knows us best, and desiring to please Him.
Some who are Christians have not grasped the extent of God's acceptance, hence they never speak of their failures, never admit to fear or confusion, carefully hide those things that they consider blots in the book of life. When I find myself in the company of someone like that, who feels compelled to always look like they're doing great, I just want to hug them close and whisper - "God loves you, blots and all. It's OK to be real!" I'm not advocating reveling in sin or excusing bad behaviors. That is a twisted concept of God's gracious love. It is true that some, in immaturity, make God's grace into a license for sinning. "If He loves me as I am, then I can go on living to suit myself." That's always been the response of some to the message of God's love.
Yes, we must change, becoming holy men and women. Here's the clear call of the Word. "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is." (Romans 12:2, NLT) The motive for that change is the KEY. Are we trying to change ourselves to win the approval of our church or family, or are we loving God and being changed by love? Let me illustrate the idea from marriage. I love Bev, my wife. I have loved her for a long time now, yesterday being the 31st anniversary of our wedding vows! My fidelity to her is not a matter of avoiding disapproval of others or even her disapproval. I am faithful to my vows, because I love her! When I see other beautiful women, I do not need to do elaborate mental gymnastics to keep my heart true to my wife - because I love her! And, the deeper our love has grown, the more repugnant the thought of betraying our vows has become.
Are you insecure?
Are you trying to win approval - from God, from others - with morality, with service, or by presenting only your 'good side' to the world?
Believe this- God knows you and loves you, just as you are!
Believer, a true and beautiful holiness, a pure morality, a winsome authenticity grows in the fertile soil of love.
Here's a word to meditate on today -"For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God. And other people will approve of you, too." (Romans 14:17-18, NLT)
_________________
How deep the Father's love for us,
How vast beyond all measure,
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure.
How great the pain of searing loss,
The Father turns His face away,
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
Bring many sons to glory.
Behold the man upon a cross.
My sin upon His shoulders;
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished;
His dying breath has brought me life -
I know that it is finished.
I will not boast in anything,
No gifts, no power, no wisdom;
But I will boast in Jesus Christ,
His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer.
But this I know with all my heart,
His wounds have paid my ransom.
How Deep The Father's Love For Us, Townend, Stuart
Copyright: 1995 Kingsway's Thankyou Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing)
Some persons never really move out of that time of life emotionally even well into adulthood. They crave the approval and acceptance of friends and family. The opinions of others - about their work, the way they are raising their kids, the kind of car they drive, even the way they tend their yard - defines them. They are like a puppet on string, dancing on life's stage - but because someone else tugs at them; first this way, then that. Persons who live for approval of others will constantly be adjusting their image, trying to conceal those parts of their life that they think are unacceptable. They do not even know who they really are.
One of the wonderful benefits of being a Christian is the discovery of God's amazing love, offered to us, NOT on the basis of our beauty, brains, or brawn; but just because we are! As we learn of God's love, as shown in Jesus Christ, and respond to Him with love, we gain a security and a sense of identity that allows us to live openly and honestly, becoming holy men and women. Yes it is true. Religion produces hypocrites, because it is about human performance, about doing good works, about meeting the expectations of God- as defined by others. A grace-based relationship with God produces a whole person because it about being loved powerfully, by One who knows us best, and desiring to please Him.
Some who are Christians have not grasped the extent of God's acceptance, hence they never speak of their failures, never admit to fear or confusion, carefully hide those things that they consider blots in the book of life. When I find myself in the company of someone like that, who feels compelled to always look like they're doing great, I just want to hug them close and whisper - "God loves you, blots and all. It's OK to be real!" I'm not advocating reveling in sin or excusing bad behaviors. That is a twisted concept of God's gracious love. It is true that some, in immaturity, make God's grace into a license for sinning. "If He loves me as I am, then I can go on living to suit myself." That's always been the response of some to the message of God's love.
Yes, we must change, becoming holy men and women. Here's the clear call of the Word. "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is." (Romans 12:2, NLT) The motive for that change is the KEY. Are we trying to change ourselves to win the approval of our church or family, or are we loving God and being changed by love? Let me illustrate the idea from marriage. I love Bev, my wife. I have loved her for a long time now, yesterday being the 31st anniversary of our wedding vows! My fidelity to her is not a matter of avoiding disapproval of others or even her disapproval. I am faithful to my vows, because I love her! When I see other beautiful women, I do not need to do elaborate mental gymnastics to keep my heart true to my wife - because I love her! And, the deeper our love has grown, the more repugnant the thought of betraying our vows has become.
Are you insecure?
Are you trying to win approval - from God, from others - with morality, with service, or by presenting only your 'good side' to the world?
Believe this- God knows you and loves you, just as you are!
Believer, a true and beautiful holiness, a pure morality, a winsome authenticity grows in the fertile soil of love.
Here's a word to meditate on today -"For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God. And other people will approve of you, too." (Romans 14:17-18, NLT)
_________________
How deep the Father's love for us,
How vast beyond all measure,
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure.
How great the pain of searing loss,
The Father turns His face away,
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
Bring many sons to glory.
Behold the man upon a cross.
My sin upon His shoulders;
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished;
His dying breath has brought me life -
I know that it is finished.
I will not boast in anything,
No gifts, no power, no wisdom;
But I will boast in Jesus Christ,
His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer.
But this I know with all my heart,
His wounds have paid my ransom.
How Deep The Father's Love For Us, Townend, Stuart
Copyright: 1995 Kingsway's Thankyou Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing)
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
What's the truth? Will you help me find it?
Monday being my day out of the office, I was able to watch some of the Senate confirmation hearings for Mr. Samuel Alito, nominee to the US Supreme Court. This judicial nomination will have far-reaching ramifications, given the deep political, social, and religious divides in America today. My attention was captured by the extreme differences between the statements made by Democratic Senators and the Republican Senators that characterized this nominee's prior work as a judge and his opinions from the bench. Could they be speaking of the same man? I found myself asking, "what is the truth?" Portions of the presentations made by Senators from both sides of the aisle were thought provoking; and, in my opinion, worthy of honest debate to help clarify how we expect each of three arms of our Federal government to function in preserving our cherished freedoms and way of life. But what is more likely is that the two sides in this debate will speak past each other, never really listening to each other, at all.
My point in this TFTD is not to advance a political point of view. Rather I want to ask us to think for moment about the ways in which we become entrenched in our opinions to such an extent that dialogue becomes impossible. It is comfortable, and even easy, to think that what we have come to believe is the truth, isn't it? We generally group ourselves with people who think as we do, thus reinforcing our beliefs. Certain phrases, even words, become coded, meaning that they carry a special meaning to us, though we may not realize it. So we go out into a surreal world where we speak the same words of the same langugage to each other, but we do not understand what is meant by those words.
Dialogue, open and honest, helps break the code in our words. But few of us are interested in dialogue; instead, we shout! Dialogue is an exhausting, even frustrating process! Jimmy's Carter, former President and Nobel Peace Prize winner, has written a new book, Our Endangered Values, in which he pleads with us to listen to each other, rather than shooting at each other with words, if not literally. He sees the rise in fundamentalism, (that he characterizes as the idea "I am right, therefore you are wrong and there is nothing to discuss.") which is gaining ground around the world, as the real threat of the future. Why? Because it allows for no clarifying dialogue. Even here in these United States, there are many who will not listen to an opposing point of view fearing that even by listening they will appear to be giving credence to those who oppose them. When people begin to attempt to 'out shout' each other, the truth is lost in the din.
"But, Jerry, don't you believe in Jesus Christ and the Truth of the Scripture?" I do, but I don't have to shout down those who swear it's all a myth or deception! Rather, I am convinced by Christ's model of love that I need to make my life consistent by closing the gap between what I say I believe and how I act in everyday situations. As a Christian, it is imperative that I live with integrity. This becomes the 'witness' to the Truth of Christ which others find hard to refute. If I listen to their criticism, I may discover areas where my actions are not reflecting the Truth I espouse, something that might be more obvious to an outsider than to myself. If I humble myself to engage in dialogue, I may earn the right to be heard and have the opportunity to 'decode' the Gospel for those who do not understand.
Are you speaking past your neighbor, past your family members, past your friends in a supposed defense of the Gospel of Christ?
Are you really listening to them.... to the Spirit of God?
Let's turn down the volume and make large the video!
Let's ask the Spirit of God to make our lives whole and holy, full of grace and truth, marked by love and good deeds.
Though a million should swear against the Truth, they will not make it a lie. Though a million should affirm a falsehood, they cannot make it true.
So, we stand in Him, secure in His love.
Here's a Word to ponder today:
Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.
But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does." (James 1:19-25, NIV)
My point in this TFTD is not to advance a political point of view. Rather I want to ask us to think for moment about the ways in which we become entrenched in our opinions to such an extent that dialogue becomes impossible. It is comfortable, and even easy, to think that what we have come to believe is the truth, isn't it? We generally group ourselves with people who think as we do, thus reinforcing our beliefs. Certain phrases, even words, become coded, meaning that they carry a special meaning to us, though we may not realize it. So we go out into a surreal world where we speak the same words of the same langugage to each other, but we do not understand what is meant by those words.
Dialogue, open and honest, helps break the code in our words. But few of us are interested in dialogue; instead, we shout! Dialogue is an exhausting, even frustrating process! Jimmy's Carter, former President and Nobel Peace Prize winner, has written a new book, Our Endangered Values, in which he pleads with us to listen to each other, rather than shooting at each other with words, if not literally. He sees the rise in fundamentalism, (that he characterizes as the idea "I am right, therefore you are wrong and there is nothing to discuss.") which is gaining ground around the world, as the real threat of the future. Why? Because it allows for no clarifying dialogue. Even here in these United States, there are many who will not listen to an opposing point of view fearing that even by listening they will appear to be giving credence to those who oppose them. When people begin to attempt to 'out shout' each other, the truth is lost in the din.
"But, Jerry, don't you believe in Jesus Christ and the Truth of the Scripture?" I do, but I don't have to shout down those who swear it's all a myth or deception! Rather, I am convinced by Christ's model of love that I need to make my life consistent by closing the gap between what I say I believe and how I act in everyday situations. As a Christian, it is imperative that I live with integrity. This becomes the 'witness' to the Truth of Christ which others find hard to refute. If I listen to their criticism, I may discover areas where my actions are not reflecting the Truth I espouse, something that might be more obvious to an outsider than to myself. If I humble myself to engage in dialogue, I may earn the right to be heard and have the opportunity to 'decode' the Gospel for those who do not understand.
Are you speaking past your neighbor, past your family members, past your friends in a supposed defense of the Gospel of Christ?
Are you really listening to them.... to the Spirit of God?
Let's turn down the volume and make large the video!
Let's ask the Spirit of God to make our lives whole and holy, full of grace and truth, marked by love and good deeds.
Though a million should swear against the Truth, they will not make it a lie. Though a million should affirm a falsehood, they cannot make it true.
So, we stand in Him, secure in His love.
Here's a Word to ponder today:
Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.
But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does." (James 1:19-25, NIV)
Monday, January 09, 2006
What prize?
Wild card weekend is over! Four football teams advance in the play-offs, including my New England Patriots, who are again looking like the SuperBowl champions they were a year ago. Millions of dollars, thousands of hours- yes, entire lives- are devoted to the pursuit of winning a game and being declared the champions ... for a year until the next SuperBowl. It's a lot of effort for a very temporary reward.
What are you working for? Is it worth the effort?
The Scripture says, "Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever." (1 Corinthians 9:25, NIV) Paul uses athletic competition to illustrate spiritual truth frequently in his New Testament writings. {I wonder if he would have been a football fan?} In the passage quoted, he refers to the 'crown,' the wreath of laurel that was placed on the head of the winner of the games. He refers to the obvious temporary quality of that reward. The leaves of the 'crown' soon wilted and eventually crumbled to powder! Did the athletes really work to win the wreath? Of course not. It was the recognition that came with wearing that coveted symbol of success that they desired. But even such recognition is short-lived. They knew that another athlete was already training hard to compete in the games, and that another would be taking first place in line soon.
Again, I ask - what are you working for?
Money? What you buy will soon wear out, become obsolete, or lose its luster.
Fame? Remember Andy's Warhol's line about 'everyone getting their 15 minutes of fame?' The public's attention span is very short!
Security? Let me remind you that nothing this side of heaven is secure!
"Jerry, you sound cynical and pessimistic about life." No, not at all. I have a real purpose that is focused on eternity. What I do now, those things that give me hope and that motivate me, are anchored to the spiritual realm in the will and purpose of God! Paul said, "So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step. I am not like a boxer who misses his punches. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified." (1 Corinthians 9:26-28, NLT)
Understand the heart of this challenge! It is not that we all have become preachers or that we all have to go on the payroll of some not-for-profit service agency in order to have a meaningful or God-pleasing life. God needs His people in business and government, too! Whatever we do, if we are reaching for the eternal prize, must be done in a way that reflects Christ is Lord of our life. You can go to work today with the aim of 'putting in your time,' to bring home a few dollars at the end of the week. With that focus, you're earning a prize that will quickly fade! Or you can go to work to please God, in whatever you do! Yes, it is true. Paul urges a work ethic that is eternity-focused writing: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." (Colossians 3:23-24, NIV)
Honor the Lord with your efforts today. As a parent, as a spouse, as an employee, as a neighbor, as a friend... keep your eyes on the eternal prize of His approval, a prize that won't wilt, crumble, fade, or be surpassed by another in the SuperBowl of life!
_______________
Father, give us vision that sees into eternity!
Help me to see Your purposes in our lives so I will be called to excellence.
All around me, Lord, there are people who are working for very temporary rewards,
and I am drawn to the trinkets that are offered.
The gleam of gold allures me, Lord.
The certificate of recognition promises me that I can feel like a winner.
Remind me how short-lived those awards are, so I will focus my efforts beyond them.
Hold out the promise of eternal life to me.
Give me the desire, more than anything else in life,
to do Your will and so to hear those coveted words from Christ, my Savior and Lord:
"Well done, good and faithful servant. Come share my happiness!"
In the Name of Jesus, I pray.
Amen.
What are you working for? Is it worth the effort?
The Scripture says, "Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever." (1 Corinthians 9:25, NIV) Paul uses athletic competition to illustrate spiritual truth frequently in his New Testament writings. {I wonder if he would have been a football fan?} In the passage quoted, he refers to the 'crown,' the wreath of laurel that was placed on the head of the winner of the games. He refers to the obvious temporary quality of that reward. The leaves of the 'crown' soon wilted and eventually crumbled to powder! Did the athletes really work to win the wreath? Of course not. It was the recognition that came with wearing that coveted symbol of success that they desired. But even such recognition is short-lived. They knew that another athlete was already training hard to compete in the games, and that another would be taking first place in line soon.
Again, I ask - what are you working for?
Money? What you buy will soon wear out, become obsolete, or lose its luster.
Fame? Remember Andy's Warhol's line about 'everyone getting their 15 minutes of fame?' The public's attention span is very short!
Security? Let me remind you that nothing this side of heaven is secure!
"Jerry, you sound cynical and pessimistic about life." No, not at all. I have a real purpose that is focused on eternity. What I do now, those things that give me hope and that motivate me, are anchored to the spiritual realm in the will and purpose of God! Paul said, "So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step. I am not like a boxer who misses his punches. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified." (1 Corinthians 9:26-28, NLT)
Understand the heart of this challenge! It is not that we all have become preachers or that we all have to go on the payroll of some not-for-profit service agency in order to have a meaningful or God-pleasing life. God needs His people in business and government, too! Whatever we do, if we are reaching for the eternal prize, must be done in a way that reflects Christ is Lord of our life. You can go to work today with the aim of 'putting in your time,' to bring home a few dollars at the end of the week. With that focus, you're earning a prize that will quickly fade! Or you can go to work to please God, in whatever you do! Yes, it is true. Paul urges a work ethic that is eternity-focused writing: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." (Colossians 3:23-24, NIV)
Honor the Lord with your efforts today. As a parent, as a spouse, as an employee, as a neighbor, as a friend... keep your eyes on the eternal prize of His approval, a prize that won't wilt, crumble, fade, or be surpassed by another in the SuperBowl of life!
_______________
Father, give us vision that sees into eternity!
Help me to see Your purposes in our lives so I will be called to excellence.
All around me, Lord, there are people who are working for very temporary rewards,
and I am drawn to the trinkets that are offered.
The gleam of gold allures me, Lord.
The certificate of recognition promises me that I can feel like a winner.
Remind me how short-lived those awards are, so I will focus my efforts beyond them.
Hold out the promise of eternal life to me.
Give me the desire, more than anything else in life,
to do Your will and so to hear those coveted words from Christ, my Savior and Lord:
"Well done, good and faithful servant. Come share my happiness!"
In the Name of Jesus, I pray.
Amen.
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