My kids got seasons 1-3 of the Muppet T.V. show for my wife and I for Christmas. I used to love watching it when it was on.
In the first season, there is a curious little song entitled, I Am My Own Grandpa. When my son, wife and I watched it the first time, we laughed til we cried. Such a funny song.
When at the cancer center yesterday, I got news that now my bone marrow, which produces blood for a person, is now totally my brother's (the donor's) from the stem cell transplant, and that it is totally engrafted--very good news. My bone marrow was unhealthy--hence the leukemia I had. But I got to thinking, "Does that mean I am now my brother?" Silly.
As I reflected on it, some Scripture and songs came to me about my relationship with Christ. Galatians 2:20 says, "I have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me." John said in chapter 15, "Abide in Me, and I in you." An old hymn says, "Is the love of Christ flowing through you" (as blood flows through our veins)? I think of other Scripture that says I am to die to self, and live in the Lord. And I am aware of others that talk of the fact that the Holy Spirit is to live out the life of Jesus through my life. All good words, but challenging for followers of Jesus. He is to be "our life." Life is to be all about Him, as if His blood ran through our veins; as if His bone marrow created our "life blood."
The Hebrews felt that the life of the person was in the blood, hence they would not allow any animal to be eaten that had not been drained of its blood. Blood, just as life, were given by God Himself, the Holy One of Israel--the Creator God who "breathed into the nostrils the breath of life," and who thought up this entire body--an amazing body of systems that normally work well together.
Back in the 70's or 80, there was a man, Mark Gersmehl, who wrote a song which said, "You're the only Jesus that some will ever see." This is a good reminder that I do not, as a believer in Christ, just represent me as I live in this world. I show Jesus to others--for good or for bad. Paul says we are to "reflect" Christ and be a "fragrance" of Christ to others.
When people look at my life, and yours, do they see the life of Jesus, the love of Jesus, the way of Jesus exemplified, or does our life point them to other ways of living, contrary to the purposes and pleasure of God--His intents?
Is 100% of Jesus bone marrow engrafted in you? If not, there is still growth to attain and things to do as we become His fragrance--Jesus to others. Keep on the journey.
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Monday, January 20, 2014
THE HELP--FOOD FOR REFLECTION
From Genesis, one learns that God was the Creator of Adam and Eve, and from them, we all came. So God is the Creator of us all. In Galatians 3:28 it says, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (NIV)
From these I see:
1. Everyone is created by God.
2. God makes no distinctions between people on earth, as to His love and wanting a relationship with them.
From this I say, as creations of God and recreated in the image of God through Christ, believers are to not be prejudiced.
Last night, the eve of Martin Luther King's birthday, my wife and I viewed the movie, "The Help." It is a story of a sad time in the history of the U.S.--a time of prejudice because of the color of a person's skin. And a young lady, raised by a maid, wanted to tell the story of "the help"--the ladies who were maids, raising their children, cooking their meals, cleaning their houses, and in some cases with little respect or compassion. And out of fear of reprisal by losing their jobs or even beating, the ladies were at first unwilling to tell their stories of mistreatment and prejudice. But as time went on, they felt the story had to be told. I would suggest that if you have not seen it, you check it out and view it. It is sad; it is funny; it is touching.
Near the end of the movie, one especially touching and reflecting line, to a lady who was involved in doing missions through her church, and because of her meanness and prejudice towards the maids, was this. The maid said, "You are a godless woman." It seemed to provide a time of pain and yet thought for the woman toward whom it was directed.
As I reflected, I realized that when I am prejudiced, I am a "godless man." Christians are to take on the character of God and Christ. Regardless of what the prejudice is about, and the mistreatment of others because of it, it is wrong according to the Creator and the One who loves everyone.
In 1 John, I read that he who loves is becoming like God. And I read that the one who loves God is to love his fellow humans also. And John says, "If you do not love others, you do not know God nor love God." (1 John 4) Hence--godless.
So today, I have to reflect who I am prejudiced toward. Who do I mistreat? And I remember, that is godless--denying my relationship with God through Christ.
With the help of the Holy Spirit (some of us are even prejudiced toward Him), I want to do better in reflecting Christ to others, not only in attitudes but also in deeds as well. What about you?
From these I see:
1. Everyone is created by God.
2. God makes no distinctions between people on earth, as to His love and wanting a relationship with them.
From this I say, as creations of God and recreated in the image of God through Christ, believers are to not be prejudiced.
Last night, the eve of Martin Luther King's birthday, my wife and I viewed the movie, "The Help." It is a story of a sad time in the history of the U.S.--a time of prejudice because of the color of a person's skin. And a young lady, raised by a maid, wanted to tell the story of "the help"--the ladies who were maids, raising their children, cooking their meals, cleaning their houses, and in some cases with little respect or compassion. And out of fear of reprisal by losing their jobs or even beating, the ladies were at first unwilling to tell their stories of mistreatment and prejudice. But as time went on, they felt the story had to be told. I would suggest that if you have not seen it, you check it out and view it. It is sad; it is funny; it is touching.
Near the end of the movie, one especially touching and reflecting line, to a lady who was involved in doing missions through her church, and because of her meanness and prejudice towards the maids, was this. The maid said, "You are a godless woman." It seemed to provide a time of pain and yet thought for the woman toward whom it was directed.
As I reflected, I realized that when I am prejudiced, I am a "godless man." Christians are to take on the character of God and Christ. Regardless of what the prejudice is about, and the mistreatment of others because of it, it is wrong according to the Creator and the One who loves everyone.
In 1 John, I read that he who loves is becoming like God. And I read that the one who loves God is to love his fellow humans also. And John says, "If you do not love others, you do not know God nor love God." (1 John 4) Hence--godless.
So today, I have to reflect who I am prejudiced toward. Who do I mistreat? And I remember, that is godless--denying my relationship with God through Christ.
With the help of the Holy Spirit (some of us are even prejudiced toward Him), I want to do better in reflecting Christ to others, not only in attitudes but also in deeds as well. What about you?
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
I CAN RELATE
Many of us have trouble relating to the apostle Paul--he was a bit intense and an overachiever. But we can relate to Peter, who fluctuated in his faith throughout his early life with Jesus. In Matthew 16:13-24, we find a couple of episodes illustrating this in Peter's life.
Jesus asks His disciples who people say He is. They give standard responses of the time--John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah or another prophet. Responses that people still give today when they try to describe Jesus.
Then Jesus asks the important question, "But who do YOU say that I am?" And that is still a or the important question people in our time must answer. Because it doesn't matter who others "think" Jesus is, nor who others "believe" Jesus is, if I have not come to terms with the answer for myself.
Peter says, "You are the Christ (Messiah, Anointed One), the Son of the living God." So he said, "You are the One sent from God but You are also Deity Yourself.
Jesus commends Peter, but tells him that this is not something people just come to; it must be revealed to them by God Himself. It is a spiritual truth, but given by God not human beings.
Then from verse 21, when Jesus talks about the fact he would die and resurrect, that does not compute with the disciples nor their contemporaries. They did not see the Messiah as a Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53) but as a conquering hero (Isaiah 9, 11), much like, but even better than King David.
So Peter steps up to the plate again and privately says to Jesus, "Never Lord! This shall never happen to you." Peter not only contradicts Jesus statement, he also rebukes the Messiah, the Son of the living God by saying this.
When any of us contradicts or rebukes God and His Son, we are wrong. Because what God says is always truth. Remember Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the way and the truth and the life." Go against the truth of God at your own peril, but you are in the wrong--sinning when you do so.
Jesus says that Peter is Satan (or a representative of Satan) and stumbling block to Jesus in this. He also tells him that THIS statement of Peter's is NOT from God, like his earlier confession was. He was looking at things from an earthly, limited viewpoint; not from God's perspective and Word. Messiahs don't get themselves killed--they win battles as they free people.
And I think v. 24 is an important part of this passage also. "If anyone would come aftyer me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." Deny self--selfishness and thoughts of your way and earthly ways of thinking; Take up his cross--that was a humiliating instrument way of death and execution--carry it to your death so you can truly follow Jesus and live for Him and with a genuine knowledge of God and God's plan through Jesus.
Peter--from a Rock to Satan--from having something revealed to Him by God Himself to believing something from Satan and worldly ways of thinking. (They had their prophecy wrong--do you?) It can all happen so quickly and easily--we are still human and influenced by people more than God. It is a maturing process.
So who is Jesus to YOU?
Will you listen to Him or the teachings and philosophies of this earthly world? In many ways, the lives of believers today are no different from those who do not follow Jesus. Will you be sucked in to thinking like everyone else or be different and listen to God?
"Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Jesus." That's the way to prevent being fooled and being found on God's side rather than Satan's side.
Jesus asks His disciples who people say He is. They give standard responses of the time--John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah or another prophet. Responses that people still give today when they try to describe Jesus.
Then Jesus asks the important question, "But who do YOU say that I am?" And that is still a or the important question people in our time must answer. Because it doesn't matter who others "think" Jesus is, nor who others "believe" Jesus is, if I have not come to terms with the answer for myself.
Peter says, "You are the Christ (Messiah, Anointed One), the Son of the living God." So he said, "You are the One sent from God but You are also Deity Yourself.
Jesus commends Peter, but tells him that this is not something people just come to; it must be revealed to them by God Himself. It is a spiritual truth, but given by God not human beings.
Then from verse 21, when Jesus talks about the fact he would die and resurrect, that does not compute with the disciples nor their contemporaries. They did not see the Messiah as a Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53) but as a conquering hero (Isaiah 9, 11), much like, but even better than King David.
So Peter steps up to the plate again and privately says to Jesus, "Never Lord! This shall never happen to you." Peter not only contradicts Jesus statement, he also rebukes the Messiah, the Son of the living God by saying this.
When any of us contradicts or rebukes God and His Son, we are wrong. Because what God says is always truth. Remember Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the way and the truth and the life." Go against the truth of God at your own peril, but you are in the wrong--sinning when you do so.
Jesus says that Peter is Satan (or a representative of Satan) and stumbling block to Jesus in this. He also tells him that THIS statement of Peter's is NOT from God, like his earlier confession was. He was looking at things from an earthly, limited viewpoint; not from God's perspective and Word. Messiahs don't get themselves killed--they win battles as they free people.
And I think v. 24 is an important part of this passage also. "If anyone would come aftyer me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." Deny self--selfishness and thoughts of your way and earthly ways of thinking; Take up his cross--that was a humiliating instrument way of death and execution--carry it to your death so you can truly follow Jesus and live for Him and with a genuine knowledge of God and God's plan through Jesus.
Peter--from a Rock to Satan--from having something revealed to Him by God Himself to believing something from Satan and worldly ways of thinking. (They had their prophecy wrong--do you?) It can all happen so quickly and easily--we are still human and influenced by people more than God. It is a maturing process.
So who is Jesus to YOU?
Will you listen to Him or the teachings and philosophies of this earthly world? In many ways, the lives of believers today are no different from those who do not follow Jesus. Will you be sucked in to thinking like everyone else or be different and listen to God?
"Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Jesus." That's the way to prevent being fooled and being found on God's side rather than Satan's side.
Friday, January 3, 2014
A BIG MISTAKE
People are so wishy-washy. We are fickle. We have good intentions, but so often when the time comes, we forget, we fail, we hesitate from what we said. And the apostle Peter was no different in that respect from us.
Peter had made some astounding statements such as, "You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God," and was commended by Jesus. Peter also said, "I will never deny you even if all turn away." Then Peter was called Satan or fitting the plan of Satan not God in this former episode, and of course denied the Lord three times before the cock crowed.
We see that denial in John 18 today (15-18, 25-27). As you look back to Jesus' being arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane (yesterday's blog), one finds a big contrast between Jesus and Peter. Jesus says, "I AM (he)" in response to the guards seeking Him. Peter, asked whether he was with Jesus or is His disciple says, "I am not." One of course, is God (Jesus), and one is a human who wants to follow but as one says, "The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak." Fear, embarrassment--whatever, it caused Peter to recoil and lie about his position in relation to Jesus.
Notice how the question is posed, negatively, as if it certainly was a bad thing or (today in our environment--a non-intellectual thing) to be a follower of Jesus. Today, in the scientific culture we live in, if you believe in Jesus you must be some sort of weird person. Because that is just a choice--no fact involved (faith vs. fact debate). "You are not one of his disciples, are you?" (Jn 18:17, 25) It's kind of like saying, "I thought you were smarter than that--believing in an old, outmoded story, something without basis in fact."
Notice, "disciple"--This is a learner, a committed follower, one seeking to learn and pattern his/her life after another. Peter denied that he was this, and so often do we. It may be our words that say, "I am not a disciple, or it could be we deny we are followers when indeed we are--we're just too embarrassed to own up to it. But there are other ways of denying we are His disciple too--like saying we believe one way, and living our life quite the opposite. The way of Jesus was a way of truth, righteousness, morality and justice. When we claim to be His disciple, but then live in contradiction to His teachings, that is denying we are His disciples. We all sin, but we also often swallow "the worldly way" of doing life more than we do Christ's way of living life.
Peter was a person, like us. Peter didn't have it all together yet, just like us. But Peter was a disciple in that he learned from his mistakes, and after the coming of the Holy Spirit and Pentecost (Acts 2) was a radically different follower of Jesus. That says to me, "There's hope--don't give up the quest to become a fully committed disciple." And it also say, "The power is in God and Jesus, to live the committed Christian life. It does not reside in any human. We need that godly power along with our knowledge of what Jesus expects, to live life to please Him."
Do you see yourself in Peter today? "You're not one of his disciples, are you?" What areas of your life need to be turned over to the Lord or recommitted to the Lord again?"
Peter had made some astounding statements such as, "You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God," and was commended by Jesus. Peter also said, "I will never deny you even if all turn away." Then Peter was called Satan or fitting the plan of Satan not God in this former episode, and of course denied the Lord three times before the cock crowed.
We see that denial in John 18 today (15-18, 25-27). As you look back to Jesus' being arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane (yesterday's blog), one finds a big contrast between Jesus and Peter. Jesus says, "I AM (he)" in response to the guards seeking Him. Peter, asked whether he was with Jesus or is His disciple says, "I am not." One of course, is God (Jesus), and one is a human who wants to follow but as one says, "The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak." Fear, embarrassment--whatever, it caused Peter to recoil and lie about his position in relation to Jesus.
Notice how the question is posed, negatively, as if it certainly was a bad thing or (today in our environment--a non-intellectual thing) to be a follower of Jesus. Today, in the scientific culture we live in, if you believe in Jesus you must be some sort of weird person. Because that is just a choice--no fact involved (faith vs. fact debate). "You are not one of his disciples, are you?" (Jn 18:17, 25) It's kind of like saying, "I thought you were smarter than that--believing in an old, outmoded story, something without basis in fact."
Notice, "disciple"--This is a learner, a committed follower, one seeking to learn and pattern his/her life after another. Peter denied that he was this, and so often do we. It may be our words that say, "I am not a disciple, or it could be we deny we are followers when indeed we are--we're just too embarrassed to own up to it. But there are other ways of denying we are His disciple too--like saying we believe one way, and living our life quite the opposite. The way of Jesus was a way of truth, righteousness, morality and justice. When we claim to be His disciple, but then live in contradiction to His teachings, that is denying we are His disciples. We all sin, but we also often swallow "the worldly way" of doing life more than we do Christ's way of living life.
Peter was a person, like us. Peter didn't have it all together yet, just like us. But Peter was a disciple in that he learned from his mistakes, and after the coming of the Holy Spirit and Pentecost (Acts 2) was a radically different follower of Jesus. That says to me, "There's hope--don't give up the quest to become a fully committed disciple." And it also say, "The power is in God and Jesus, to live the committed Christian life. It does not reside in any human. We need that godly power along with our knowledge of what Jesus expects, to live life to please Him."
Do you see yourself in Peter today? "You're not one of his disciples, are you?" What areas of your life need to be turned over to the Lord or recommitted to the Lord again?"
Thursday, January 2, 2014
OPEN MOUTH, INSERT FOOT
My mother used to use the expression, "open mouth-insert foot," at times. It meant that so often it is easy to open one's mouth and say too much or what you meant doesn't come out like you meant it to. Happens to all of us at times.
In another episode in the life of Apostle Peter, from John 18:1-11 (and the other gospels), we find this of Peter again with an action.
Jesus is being arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane. There are Romans soldier (maybe as many as 600, some feel), plus Temple guards and Judas there. Jesus was with his disciples in this overnight scene.
In the gospel of John, John portrays Jesus as always in charge, not a victim. So Jesus asks the guards, "Who are you seeking?" They say, "Jesus of Nazareth." And Jesus says, "I am he." (ESV) At this point, the army recoils and fell to the ground. Was Jesus referring to Himself with the phrase, "I AM" as in many other places in John, and referring back to the divine name in Exodus 3:14? Probably so. And according to the text, "knees bow" at the sound of the name.
Jesus then attempts to get his disciples freed as he goes with the guards.
And here is where Peter "opens mouth, inserts foot"--actually opens sword and cuts off ear. And once again, as Peter had done several times before in the gospel accounts, Peter had gotten off track with God's will (and of course, would again, in the denial occurring past this in the text).
Peter did things impetuously--on the spur of the moment--and they got him in trouble so often. What do we learn from Peter's response?
Fortunately for the early church, after Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit, Peter was radically different. We need the Holy Spirit and to keep in touch with the Holy Spirit, so we can be radically different also.
Growth in faith is important for the individual, for God's portrayal by us to the world, and for God's purposes achieved fully through us.
I am glad God didn't give up on Peter. I am even more glad God never gave up on me!
In another episode in the life of Apostle Peter, from John 18:1-11 (and the other gospels), we find this of Peter again with an action.
Jesus is being arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane. There are Romans soldier (maybe as many as 600, some feel), plus Temple guards and Judas there. Jesus was with his disciples in this overnight scene.
In the gospel of John, John portrays Jesus as always in charge, not a victim. So Jesus asks the guards, "Who are you seeking?" They say, "Jesus of Nazareth." And Jesus says, "I am he." (ESV) At this point, the army recoils and fell to the ground. Was Jesus referring to Himself with the phrase, "I AM" as in many other places in John, and referring back to the divine name in Exodus 3:14? Probably so. And according to the text, "knees bow" at the sound of the name.
Jesus then attempts to get his disciples freed as he goes with the guards.
And here is where Peter "opens mouth, inserts foot"--actually opens sword and cuts off ear. And once again, as Peter had done several times before in the gospel accounts, Peter had gotten off track with God's will (and of course, would again, in the denial occurring past this in the text).
Peter did things impetuously--on the spur of the moment--and they got him in trouble so often. What do we learn from Peter's response?
- Hasty rather than thoughtful or prayerful decisions often lead to spiritual mistakes.
- When one does not consult the Lord, one often goes directly against the will of God, even with good intentions. "God's work needs to be done God's way."
- When one acts on his own, he often portrays the cause of Christ or the purpose of Christ in a wrong light. Jesus came not to be a political leader or revolutionary, but to "save His people from their sins." Jesus had come to accept God's plan and purpose and way of carrying out that purpose.
Fortunately for the early church, after Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit, Peter was radically different. We need the Holy Spirit and to keep in touch with the Holy Spirit, so we can be radically different also.
Growth in faith is important for the individual, for God's portrayal by us to the world, and for God's purposes achieved fully through us.
I am glad God didn't give up on Peter. I am even more glad God never gave up on me!
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
HUMBLING LEUKEMIA--SHE WAS JESUS
Leukemia and chemo is a very humbling experience. There are times when one cannot get out of bed or do any personal self-care, due to the weakness. And that's hard for most any American to take.
John 13:6-8
Context--Jesus with his disciples in the upper room, preparing them for his death, resurrection, ascension and them living life without him there. Jesus is doing a task that only the lowliest slave of a house would do--washing people's dirty feet.
When Jesus gets to Peter, he protests--"Lord you will never wash my feet." You are rabbi and leader, Lord. You shouldn't be doing this lowly task. (Notice Peter didn't offer in the text to get up and take Jesus' place.) Jesus explained to Peter that Peter did not yet understand what Jesus was doing (or about to do in going to crucifixion for Peter and all others. Jesus would lower Himself again, through the Cross, and take the sin of the world.
A few days after the stem cell transplant, I was sitting up in chair and able to do my own bath, but could still not get to my feet due to swelling in my legs. The nurse tech washed them for me, and it dawned on me, and I said it, John 13. I told her about how Jesus had washed the feet of his disciples just as she was washing my feet. The worst day with the feet was the day they had sweated very badly, and smelled very badly, and I told her to just get two tubs of water to let me put them in and soak because they were terrible to me. But she did so without complaining or making me feel like I was less than a person.
It was humbling for me when my wife did this, but even more humbling when a nurse tech, one I didn't know well at all, was doing this and other self-care for me.
What did Peter learn (and I learn) that could help us live our lives with the Lord better?
John 13:6-8
Context--Jesus with his disciples in the upper room, preparing them for his death, resurrection, ascension and them living life without him there. Jesus is doing a task that only the lowliest slave of a house would do--washing people's dirty feet.
When Jesus gets to Peter, he protests--"Lord you will never wash my feet." You are rabbi and leader, Lord. You shouldn't be doing this lowly task. (Notice Peter didn't offer in the text to get up and take Jesus' place.) Jesus explained to Peter that Peter did not yet understand what Jesus was doing (or about to do in going to crucifixion for Peter and all others. Jesus would lower Himself again, through the Cross, and take the sin of the world.
A few days after the stem cell transplant, I was sitting up in chair and able to do my own bath, but could still not get to my feet due to swelling in my legs. The nurse tech washed them for me, and it dawned on me, and I said it, John 13. I told her about how Jesus had washed the feet of his disciples just as she was washing my feet. The worst day with the feet was the day they had sweated very badly, and smelled very badly, and I told her to just get two tubs of water to let me put them in and soak because they were terrible to me. But she did so without complaining or making me feel like I was less than a person.
It was humbling for me when my wife did this, but even more humbling when a nurse tech, one I didn't know well at all, was doing this and other self-care for me.
What did Peter learn (and I learn) that could help us live our lives with the Lord better?
- None of us (especially Christians) should be too good to humble ourselves, lower ourselves to meet a practical need another has. We all are equal in the sight of God.
- None of us should be too good to humble ourselves, and let another serve us, when it is our time to have a need, and someone comes to help and serve. Ecclesiastes 3 says, "There is a time for every purpose under heaven"--a time to be well and a time to be sick. Do not rob someone of their opportunity to minister and serve.
- What is important is not "position" in life; what is important is doing what God asks us to do.
- Meeting practical needs is showing Jesus' love and humility. Follow His example. (Remember, Jesus original call to Peter was "Follow Me.")
- Spiritual eyes must be open for practical needs to be seen, and spiritual hearts must be open to move from seeing to doing. But that's what faith is--seeing, believing, and then doing--"follow up or follow Me."
Sunday, December 29, 2013
PETER WALKS ON WATER
Walking on water is impossible--but in Matthew 14:22-36, we find two different people walking on the Sea of Galilee.
Jesus had a busy day of ministry, so he sends the disciples in a boat to cross the Sea of Galilee. Jesus goes to a mountain to pray to His Father and spends evening and much of the night. The disciples are fighting to get the boat across because a storm comes up.
Early in the morning, Jesus joins them by walking on the Sea. The disciples see Him, and are afraid he is a ghost. I mean, who can walk on water?
Jesus tells them not to be afraid, that it is He (literally "I am.")
When Peter realizes it is Jesus, he asks Jesus to identify Himself by asking Peter to come to Him, walking on the water. Jesus tells Peter to come, and Peter does.
Successfully walking toward Jesus, Peter then sees the storm and effects of the wind, and begins to sink. Of course, he asks Jesus to save him. Jesus lifts him out of the waves and asks Peter, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt. (ESV)
They get into the boat; the storm ceases, and the disciples worship Jesus and say, "Truly, You are the Son of God." Good statement since only God can control nature.
Peter--impetuous, fool hardy, maybe full of faith, and yet like us all, he has his doubts too, especially when he thinks about the situation he faces. Who can walk on water? Who can do so during a storm? Certainly I can't; I don't have the power to overcome those forces, yet Peter was doing that due to Jesus' power just a minute before.
What so often happens with us like Peter, is that we take our eyes off Jesus. We look more at the situation than we do the God who can control anything and do miracles. So we let the situation become bigger as we make Jesus smaller. Who is the Lord--the situation you face or Jesus?
Henry Blackaby (Experiencing God) used to say, "Look at the circumstance from God's perspective rather than looking at God through the circumstance." In other words, what could God achieve through this; how could He grow me through this; what purpose might He have that I might join and obey and follow?
Jesus saved Peter, but He also shows Him that faith is necessary to do what God wants. We should not doubt His power to do ANYTHING. The impossible is possible with God and His son, Jesus.
Peter and the disciples learn important lessons from this story. They learn to trust God (at least for now) for anything--even impossible things. They learn to focus on Jesus not circumstances. And they learn a bit more of who Jesus is--they worshiped Him and called Him the Son of God.
What do you face right now that is IMPOSSIBLE? Will God be there for you in this seemingly impossible situation/task? Is He powerful enough to overcome or help you get through it?
Keep your focus on Jesus, not the problem or situation; look for His perspective.
And through this all, you will learn that Jesus is the Son of God, and you will learn more of what that means--all good lessons for followers of Jesus who are on a long and winding road. And the more you learn about the real Jesus, the more you will worship Him.
Jesus had a busy day of ministry, so he sends the disciples in a boat to cross the Sea of Galilee. Jesus goes to a mountain to pray to His Father and spends evening and much of the night. The disciples are fighting to get the boat across because a storm comes up.
Early in the morning, Jesus joins them by walking on the Sea. The disciples see Him, and are afraid he is a ghost. I mean, who can walk on water?
Jesus tells them not to be afraid, that it is He (literally "I am.")
When Peter realizes it is Jesus, he asks Jesus to identify Himself by asking Peter to come to Him, walking on the water. Jesus tells Peter to come, and Peter does.
Successfully walking toward Jesus, Peter then sees the storm and effects of the wind, and begins to sink. Of course, he asks Jesus to save him. Jesus lifts him out of the waves and asks Peter, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt. (ESV)
They get into the boat; the storm ceases, and the disciples worship Jesus and say, "Truly, You are the Son of God." Good statement since only God can control nature.
Peter--impetuous, fool hardy, maybe full of faith, and yet like us all, he has his doubts too, especially when he thinks about the situation he faces. Who can walk on water? Who can do so during a storm? Certainly I can't; I don't have the power to overcome those forces, yet Peter was doing that due to Jesus' power just a minute before.
What so often happens with us like Peter, is that we take our eyes off Jesus. We look more at the situation than we do the God who can control anything and do miracles. So we let the situation become bigger as we make Jesus smaller. Who is the Lord--the situation you face or Jesus?
Henry Blackaby (Experiencing God) used to say, "Look at the circumstance from God's perspective rather than looking at God through the circumstance." In other words, what could God achieve through this; how could He grow me through this; what purpose might He have that I might join and obey and follow?
Jesus saved Peter, but He also shows Him that faith is necessary to do what God wants. We should not doubt His power to do ANYTHING. The impossible is possible with God and His son, Jesus.
Peter and the disciples learn important lessons from this story. They learn to trust God (at least for now) for anything--even impossible things. They learn to focus on Jesus not circumstances. And they learn a bit more of who Jesus is--they worshiped Him and called Him the Son of God.
What do you face right now that is IMPOSSIBLE? Will God be there for you in this seemingly impossible situation/task? Is He powerful enough to overcome or help you get through it?
Keep your focus on Jesus, not the problem or situation; look for His perspective.
And through this all, you will learn that Jesus is the Son of God, and you will learn more of what that means--all good lessons for followers of Jesus who are on a long and winding road. And the more you learn about the real Jesus, the more you will worship Him.
Saturday, December 28, 2013
ALWAYS FISHING
Some people are always fishing--spring, summer, fall and even ice fishing.
I'm looking at the life of Peter right now, and notice some beneficial things in the call of Peter to "Follow Jesus." (Mt 4:18-22; Mk 1:16-20; Lk 5:1-11). The Lucan account may be a fuller version of the same story in Mt and Mk, or could be another story. I focus on the fuller account in Lk today.
The professional fishermen, Peter, James, John, had fished all night and not caught anything. Jesus tells them to cast the nets out deeper for a catch. Simon Peter doesn't protest, but just says they were unsuccessful overnight, their best time to fish. This highlights the story even more.
Peter and the others cast the nets as Jesus tells them, and get a miraculous amount of fish. "so full that their nets begin to break" and they fill two boats. Peter recognizes Jesus' appearance and miracle show he (Peter) is in the presence of God--at least something only God could do. So as Isaiah in Is. 6, when God appears, Peter realizes he is sinful and not worthy to be in Jesus' presence. He is awestruck and amazed.
Similar words when God shows up to people (theophany) in the Old Testament, "Don't be afraid." Saying, "I am here for a good purpose; I want to empower you to do my work."
"From now on you will catch men." (Whatever that means)
In all three Gospels, the fishermen leave family, business, leave everything to follow Jesus.
Peter was told to fish in "deeper" water. Probably not an allegory really here, but there are times in life when people expect too little, need challenges and a change from the same old. But Jesus does not call us to a life of ease and comfort. He calls us to listen to Him for directions. And that means we go into deeper water than we would on our own.
Even when it doesn't make sense, I am to listen and obey the Lord. And it often does not make sense from my or a human standpoint. But remember, God's ways are not our ways.
When one recognizes he/she is in the presence of God, the attitude one needs is that of awe, worship, respect, and realizing one`s sinfulness. It is only of God's grace and mercy that we can be in the presence of a Holy God.
God comes to us with an important and good purpose in mind. Greater service for Christ is part of our gratitude for His forgiveness and grace.
Fear is human; not godly. Focus on God can take fear away.
When the challenge from God comes, the answer for us is to "leave everything and follow Him."
For the disciple/believer/follower of Christ, everyday is an opportunity to be an influencer for Jesus among people we are around. It is a chance to "fish for men/women."
I will probably never see 3000 accept Christ through my service, like Peter did at Pentecost (Acts 2). But I can help people move closer to becoming followers of Jesus everyday--one by one. And that too is part of praying, "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."
Let's go fishing, even in an informal way.
I'm looking at the life of Peter right now, and notice some beneficial things in the call of Peter to "Follow Jesus." (Mt 4:18-22; Mk 1:16-20; Lk 5:1-11). The Lucan account may be a fuller version of the same story in Mt and Mk, or could be another story. I focus on the fuller account in Lk today.
The professional fishermen, Peter, James, John, had fished all night and not caught anything. Jesus tells them to cast the nets out deeper for a catch. Simon Peter doesn't protest, but just says they were unsuccessful overnight, their best time to fish. This highlights the story even more.
Peter and the others cast the nets as Jesus tells them, and get a miraculous amount of fish. "so full that their nets begin to break" and they fill two boats. Peter recognizes Jesus' appearance and miracle show he (Peter) is in the presence of God--at least something only God could do. So as Isaiah in Is. 6, when God appears, Peter realizes he is sinful and not worthy to be in Jesus' presence. He is awestruck and amazed.
Similar words when God shows up to people (theophany) in the Old Testament, "Don't be afraid." Saying, "I am here for a good purpose; I want to empower you to do my work."
"From now on you will catch men." (Whatever that means)
In all three Gospels, the fishermen leave family, business, leave everything to follow Jesus.
Peter was told to fish in "deeper" water. Probably not an allegory really here, but there are times in life when people expect too little, need challenges and a change from the same old. But Jesus does not call us to a life of ease and comfort. He calls us to listen to Him for directions. And that means we go into deeper water than we would on our own.
Even when it doesn't make sense, I am to listen and obey the Lord. And it often does not make sense from my or a human standpoint. But remember, God's ways are not our ways.
When one recognizes he/she is in the presence of God, the attitude one needs is that of awe, worship, respect, and realizing one`s sinfulness. It is only of God's grace and mercy that we can be in the presence of a Holy God.
God comes to us with an important and good purpose in mind. Greater service for Christ is part of our gratitude for His forgiveness and grace.
Fear is human; not godly. Focus on God can take fear away.
When the challenge from God comes, the answer for us is to "leave everything and follow Him."
For the disciple/believer/follower of Christ, everyday is an opportunity to be an influencer for Jesus among people we are around. It is a chance to "fish for men/women."
I will probably never see 3000 accept Christ through my service, like Peter did at Pentecost (Acts 2). But I can help people move closer to becoming followers of Jesus everyday--one by one. And that too is part of praying, "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."
Let's go fishing, even in an informal way.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
EXISTENCE--> PRESENCE--> POWER
REAL EXISTENCE offers His PRESENCE, which leads to His POWER.
Joshua 1
"Be strong and courageous."
"Be strong and very courageous."
"Be strong and courageous, because I AM."
"Be strong and courageous, because I AM with you."
"Be strong and courageous, because I AM with you wherever you go."
"And you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you (Presence through His Existence). And you shall be my witnesses"..."wherever you go." (Josh 1)
Draw strength from the One who has always EXISTED today, as He offers you His POWER through His PRESENCE, wherever you go.
REAL EXISTENCE-->PRESENCE-->POWER
Joshua 1
"Be strong and courageous."
"Be strong and very courageous."
"Be strong and courageous, because I AM."
"Be strong and courageous, because I AM with you."
"Be strong and courageous, because I AM with you wherever you go."
- REAL EXISTENCE--God Is--Gen. 1--God exists
- PRESENCE--"I AM with you! This God who exists offers His Presence to you and me.
- POWER--"I AM with you, SO be strong and courageous." This God who exists, offers His Presence to you, which leads to His POWER being available to you."
"And you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you (Presence through His Existence). And you shall be my witnesses"..."wherever you go." (Josh 1)
Draw strength from the One who has always EXISTED today, as He offers you His POWER through His PRESENCE, wherever you go.
REAL EXISTENCE-->PRESENCE-->POWER
Saturday, October 19, 2013
FOCUS, FOCUS, FOCUS
Focus is often lacking among Christians as it is among Americans. We have so many projects going at once--"too many irons in the fire," the old saying goes. We try to get everything out of life we can--and more done all the time--more, more, more. Is there anything wrong with that? Could be.
I wish every believer could read A Testament of Devotion, a small devotional book by Quaker, Thomas Kelly. I especially wish everyone could read the short essay within the book titled, "The Simplification of Life." It discusses being controlled, not by the pulls of life, not by our own thoughts, desires, needs, urgencies, but by the Divine Center. (Quakers use many terms for God unfamiliar to other Christians.) But, as he says, we so often do not seek out the "Divine Center" to focus on what is important and what is OUR service, our ministry, our way of loving Him and loving others. Instead, we just shoot out shotgun at everything in our path, rather than the focus of the rifle at the real target each of us should be striving toward.
Kelly says, where there is time made to "focus" on God and His purpose, then we find ourselves being less pulled in too many directions and more focused on what is important. But what is important should be for the Christian "what is important to God," not just to you and me. And truthfully, I don't want to live that way--that means "denying self, taking up my cross, and following Jesus" (how's that for a good biblical idea--Lk 9:23). But my self doesn't want crucifying--just let me live my life the way I want to, as I seek to worship and follow Christ "MY" way.
Kelly says, we know there are some who slip into the Divine Center and live their live--even busy lives--less harried, less split, less feverishly--and they find joy, peace, rest in the midst of it all. They seem to find fulfillment when many of us are just involved going from activity to activity, and just feeling more tired rather than joyful in doing good. What is the difference? Gaining focus from God as to His purpose for me.
I have also been reading a book titled, Plan B, by Pete Wilson. It discusses what one does when my Plan A is not God's plan, but God brings to us Plan B. What happens when what I want to do conflicts with what God brings into my life--like illness or failure or (you add the circumstance). How do you and I, as believers, deal with God's Plan B?
Again it is a matter of focus. Wilson says we so often focus on the what, when and where of knowing God's will (and God's plan) "that we neglect the most important question, which is why." (Wilson, p. 77) Why are we doing what we are doing? Why am I living my life for Christ? Why am I here?
As Wilson discusses the Apostle Paul, he says this, "He knows why he's doing what he's doing. He knows his purpose, his mission--to bring glory to God with his life." (Wilson, p. 77)
When one knows his purpose, his mission, then it is easier to live that out through daily interactions with people, daily events, and to leave off those that are not part of that purpose. Simplicity--focus--saying "yes" to some, and "no" to others. But you must know the "why," the purpose, your purpose.
And where do we learn that purpose, and continue to refocus on that purpose? By spending time with the "Divine Center"--God Himself. Jesus did it when there was so much healing, preaching and teaching to do, but he went off by himself to pray, and then he told his disciples, "we must move on to other cities, because that is why I came." There was great success where He was, but He got alone with God to refocus on His purpose--"WHY" He was here. If Jesus needed that, do you?
What are you involved in that you should probably let someone else do or that you just need to drop? (This applies to churches as well--see a book titled, Simple Church.) The reason this happens though is for focus, and the focus comes when we ask God "why" and He reveals to us what is most important to us living out the "why."
Focus, focus, focus. Do you need to get alone with God, to consistently ask God, "why"? Why am I doing what I am doing? Is it really to "glorify God with my life" or is it for some other reason?
Wouldn't it be great to be "busy doing what you were created to do and be" rather than just pulled in every direction. Seek out the Divine Center, consistently, and see the focus of life change.
I wish every believer could read A Testament of Devotion, a small devotional book by Quaker, Thomas Kelly. I especially wish everyone could read the short essay within the book titled, "The Simplification of Life." It discusses being controlled, not by the pulls of life, not by our own thoughts, desires, needs, urgencies, but by the Divine Center. (Quakers use many terms for God unfamiliar to other Christians.) But, as he says, we so often do not seek out the "Divine Center" to focus on what is important and what is OUR service, our ministry, our way of loving Him and loving others. Instead, we just shoot out shotgun at everything in our path, rather than the focus of the rifle at the real target each of us should be striving toward.
Kelly says, where there is time made to "focus" on God and His purpose, then we find ourselves being less pulled in too many directions and more focused on what is important. But what is important should be for the Christian "what is important to God," not just to you and me. And truthfully, I don't want to live that way--that means "denying self, taking up my cross, and following Jesus" (how's that for a good biblical idea--Lk 9:23). But my self doesn't want crucifying--just let me live my life the way I want to, as I seek to worship and follow Christ "MY" way.
Kelly says, we know there are some who slip into the Divine Center and live their live--even busy lives--less harried, less split, less feverishly--and they find joy, peace, rest in the midst of it all. They seem to find fulfillment when many of us are just involved going from activity to activity, and just feeling more tired rather than joyful in doing good. What is the difference? Gaining focus from God as to His purpose for me.
I have also been reading a book titled, Plan B, by Pete Wilson. It discusses what one does when my Plan A is not God's plan, but God brings to us Plan B. What happens when what I want to do conflicts with what God brings into my life--like illness or failure or (you add the circumstance). How do you and I, as believers, deal with God's Plan B?
Again it is a matter of focus. Wilson says we so often focus on the what, when and where of knowing God's will (and God's plan) "that we neglect the most important question, which is why." (Wilson, p. 77) Why are we doing what we are doing? Why am I living my life for Christ? Why am I here?
As Wilson discusses the Apostle Paul, he says this, "He knows why he's doing what he's doing. He knows his purpose, his mission--to bring glory to God with his life." (Wilson, p. 77)
When one knows his purpose, his mission, then it is easier to live that out through daily interactions with people, daily events, and to leave off those that are not part of that purpose. Simplicity--focus--saying "yes" to some, and "no" to others. But you must know the "why," the purpose, your purpose.
And where do we learn that purpose, and continue to refocus on that purpose? By spending time with the "Divine Center"--God Himself. Jesus did it when there was so much healing, preaching and teaching to do, but he went off by himself to pray, and then he told his disciples, "we must move on to other cities, because that is why I came." There was great success where He was, but He got alone with God to refocus on His purpose--"WHY" He was here. If Jesus needed that, do you?
What are you involved in that you should probably let someone else do or that you just need to drop? (This applies to churches as well--see a book titled, Simple Church.) The reason this happens though is for focus, and the focus comes when we ask God "why" and He reveals to us what is most important to us living out the "why."
Focus, focus, focus. Do you need to get alone with God, to consistently ask God, "why"? Why am I doing what I am doing? Is it really to "glorify God with my life" or is it for some other reason?
Wouldn't it be great to be "busy doing what you were created to do and be" rather than just pulled in every direction. Seek out the Divine Center, consistently, and see the focus of life change.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
GOD'S WORK
The Bible is a book about God and His purposes and His ways. There are people mentioned, of course, but the focus is God.
As I read through Joshua now, I see this focus clearly. The Israelites are receiving what God promised Abraham in God's covenant with them. They were to receive three things--relationship with God, many descendants, and a great land. They had received all by this time in the Bible except the promised land, and we see this happening in the book of Joshua.
Chapter 6 is the initial conquest, which is the city of Jericho. God gives them the plan, and it is not like any war plan any military leader would come up with. Israel was to march around the city for 7 days, each of the first six days, one time, while blowing a trumpet (shophar). Then they would go back to their camp. However, on the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times, and then when the signal was given, shout. The walls then were to fall down and they were to go into the city and fight.
And the plan worked. On the seventh day, they went into the city and wiped out everyone in the city, including the animals. This was a ban the God had put on the city. Israel was to take no spoils but to destroy everyone/thing, except for metals and what would not burn. These were then to be given to the treasury of the Lord.
Rahab, the woman who had saved the spies earlier in Joshua, was spared along with her family that had gathered in her house during the siege. This was promised to her that they would be spared, as she had asked.
What do we find in Joshua 6? Remember first that in the last of chapter 5, the "commander of the army of the Lord" had met with Joshua. Did he give instructions then to Joshua? Did he appear to lead Joshua, implying that this place was "holy ground," that is, dedicated to God (thus the ban on the people and things found there)?
One thing we note--for the walls to fall down like this (trumpet and shout), it had to be a work of God. This was not, and still is not, military planning. It was not the superior forces of Israel for this to happen, and it is not just coincidence that it happened when it did (even if an earthquake occurred or some other physical phenomena). The timing was God's--the work was God's--it was God's doing, not Israel's doing. God gave the plan in advance--and then He followed through on His plan--proving His Word would occur.
The ban--the killing of everyone--a tough situation--not something telling Israel that this would be a principle for all time or every battle, though it did occur in Canaan. They were to wipe out the people and things that related to worship of other gods there. Part of that was the sin of the Canaanites (see references in your reference or study Bible). Part of that was protection for Israel as they moved in, that they would not go after false gods. (However, they didn't follow God's instructions, and they dealt with going after false gods all the time they were in the Promised Land.)
This ban was for a certain time and place--not a principle for all time--not an ethnic cleansing, since some were spared (not only Rahab's family, but the Gibeonites later in Joshua). God has the power, as God to create, to destroy, as He is creator but also judge. And only God sees perfectly--no person ever does. And as Sovereign, He is God over all.
Gold, silver and other things were given to the treasury to prevent greed on the part of the people and also to help with building a Temple later on as well.
So this was a work of God. God's work is to be done God's way. Even when it sounds totally illogical (Are you smarter than God?) or not the way you or any person would do it. But in this way, God got the credit for it.
However, word got around at the end about Israel, their God, and Joshua. "So the LORD was with Joshua, and his fame spread throughout the land." (NIV) It proved to Israel that God was with Joshua as God had been with Moses, thus making his leadership more trustworthy in their eyes. But the word also got around the Promised Land about the invasion of Israel, and the fear grew among the people who lived there. (Remember what Rahab had said earlier when the spies came, that people were in fear of this nation.)
What situation are you facing that you have trouble believing God can do it? Or maybe God is saying something about the situation, but to you, it doesn't make sense. Who you going to trust--God or yourself? Is God getting the glory in your life for things that are happening or are you getting the glory? What walls in your own life need to come down, so you can trust God more fully?
As I read through Joshua now, I see this focus clearly. The Israelites are receiving what God promised Abraham in God's covenant with them. They were to receive three things--relationship with God, many descendants, and a great land. They had received all by this time in the Bible except the promised land, and we see this happening in the book of Joshua.
Chapter 6 is the initial conquest, which is the city of Jericho. God gives them the plan, and it is not like any war plan any military leader would come up with. Israel was to march around the city for 7 days, each of the first six days, one time, while blowing a trumpet (shophar). Then they would go back to their camp. However, on the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times, and then when the signal was given, shout. The walls then were to fall down and they were to go into the city and fight.
And the plan worked. On the seventh day, they went into the city and wiped out everyone in the city, including the animals. This was a ban the God had put on the city. Israel was to take no spoils but to destroy everyone/thing, except for metals and what would not burn. These were then to be given to the treasury of the Lord.
Rahab, the woman who had saved the spies earlier in Joshua, was spared along with her family that had gathered in her house during the siege. This was promised to her that they would be spared, as she had asked.
What do we find in Joshua 6? Remember first that in the last of chapter 5, the "commander of the army of the Lord" had met with Joshua. Did he give instructions then to Joshua? Did he appear to lead Joshua, implying that this place was "holy ground," that is, dedicated to God (thus the ban on the people and things found there)?
One thing we note--for the walls to fall down like this (trumpet and shout), it had to be a work of God. This was not, and still is not, military planning. It was not the superior forces of Israel for this to happen, and it is not just coincidence that it happened when it did (even if an earthquake occurred or some other physical phenomena). The timing was God's--the work was God's--it was God's doing, not Israel's doing. God gave the plan in advance--and then He followed through on His plan--proving His Word would occur.
The ban--the killing of everyone--a tough situation--not something telling Israel that this would be a principle for all time or every battle, though it did occur in Canaan. They were to wipe out the people and things that related to worship of other gods there. Part of that was the sin of the Canaanites (see references in your reference or study Bible). Part of that was protection for Israel as they moved in, that they would not go after false gods. (However, they didn't follow God's instructions, and they dealt with going after false gods all the time they were in the Promised Land.)
This ban was for a certain time and place--not a principle for all time--not an ethnic cleansing, since some were spared (not only Rahab's family, but the Gibeonites later in Joshua). God has the power, as God to create, to destroy, as He is creator but also judge. And only God sees perfectly--no person ever does. And as Sovereign, He is God over all.
Gold, silver and other things were given to the treasury to prevent greed on the part of the people and also to help with building a Temple later on as well.
So this was a work of God. God's work is to be done God's way. Even when it sounds totally illogical (Are you smarter than God?) or not the way you or any person would do it. But in this way, God got the credit for it.
However, word got around at the end about Israel, their God, and Joshua. "So the LORD was with Joshua, and his fame spread throughout the land." (NIV) It proved to Israel that God was with Joshua as God had been with Moses, thus making his leadership more trustworthy in their eyes. But the word also got around the Promised Land about the invasion of Israel, and the fear grew among the people who lived there. (Remember what Rahab had said earlier when the spies came, that people were in fear of this nation.)
What situation are you facing that you have trouble believing God can do it? Or maybe God is saying something about the situation, but to you, it doesn't make sense. Who you going to trust--God or yourself? Is God getting the glory in your life for things that are happening or are you getting the glory? What walls in your own life need to come down, so you can trust God more fully?
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
WHOSE SIDE ARE YOU ON?
Whose side are you on? Who is on your side? Whether an argument, a team sport, or problems in relationships, often we find a side to be for or against.
In Joshua 5, Joshua and the Israelites are getting prepared to go into the Promised Land, the final aspect of the Covenant that God made with Abraham--the aspect that had not yet been fulfilled.
As they did so, they got spiritually prepared--and remember this is a new generation--second generation out of Egypt. So first of all, the act of circumcision for this new generation. It represented to the Jew the acceptance of God's Covenant with them. So this new generation had to accept it for themselves--they could not live on their parent's acceptance of the Covenant with God.
A second aspect we find here is that they observed the Passover. It was remembering what God had done, in bringing them out of slavery into freedom. It was a way of showing solidarity with their history, their past, and past generations. They were to observe this each year, but had not for several, so this action on their part showed their obedience to God once again.
Not only had they accepted God's covenant, they also were showing their willingness to live in obedience to Him and His commands. And these were part of the covenant God made with them. These are important things for them, as they prepare to go into the Promised Land to receive what God had promised. Spiritual preparation is always important--in fact, the most important for believers.
But then a curious passage (Josh. 5:13-15). Joshua, the leader of the Israelites, God's chosen man, goes near Jericho. As he does so, a man with a drawn sword appears before him. Joshua asks the man, "Are you for us or for our enemies?" In other words, whose side are you on. (Word had gotten around the land of Canaan that the Israelites were right near Canaan and things they had done already to other enemies--so fear was there among the people living in Canaan).
The man's response, "Neither." I am for neither you nor your enemies. And he goes on to say, "As commander of the LORD's army I have now come." Now wait a minute! Wasn't the Lord behind Joshua and the Israelites taking over this land? Wasn't He the one giving them this Promised Land?
Was this an angel of the LORD? Was it the LORD Himself? Joshua immediately bows down before the man in reverence and asks, "What message do you have for me?" He recognizes this is either God or one representing the LORD. So he asks a good question, "Why are you here? What is the message you are to deliver to me? (Angels or God doesn't just appear, it seems for no reason.)
The man before Joshua tells him to take off his sandals, because he is only holy ground. You remember this was also said to Moses at the burning bush. So it was a confirmation to Joshua that indeed "God was with him in the same way He'd been with Moses." It should build up the faith--the strength and courage (chapter 1)--of Joshua on the eve of beginning the battles to capture the land.
But what other messages were probably here? One, God is not on our side; He wants us to be on His side. Now God loves everyone; sinners as well as believers. He loves the sinner and hates the sin.
Is our side always right? Of course not. But is God's side/mind/purpose always right? Of course. So we need to come to God and listen to Him, not just ask God to "bless" our plans, our works for Him, our purposes. We should get our marching orders from Him, not He from us. A good reminder for Joshua and Israel as they enter the Promised Land.
That also says things should be done "God's way," not necessarily the way we think. God would give His people specific instructions as they captured the land. When they followed Him, they achieved success. When they didn't listen or disobeyed, they found failure. The battles were dependent on God and listening to His instructions/plans.
God doesn't need to know my plans and join me (whose side are you on), I need to know His plans and join Him.
Be aware also that when God speaks, that is "holy ground." When God chooses to speak to us, that is not the norm--the everyday--the common. Therefore, that is holy ground--a message to be heard and heeded, not taken lightly.
The Promised Land was indeed holy ground, but it was only holy ground because of God, His blessing, His covenant, His choosing, His purpose. Entering that land needed to be done in God's way and behind His leading, not just what they thought.
Are not our lives also "holy ground" as God communicates to us and wants us to "be on His side, not just He be on our side"? I need to hear from God more than He needs to hear from me. And then, I need to obey.
How might this apply to your life right now? Where do you see yourself in this story about Joshua?
In Joshua 5, Joshua and the Israelites are getting prepared to go into the Promised Land, the final aspect of the Covenant that God made with Abraham--the aspect that had not yet been fulfilled.
As they did so, they got spiritually prepared--and remember this is a new generation--second generation out of Egypt. So first of all, the act of circumcision for this new generation. It represented to the Jew the acceptance of God's Covenant with them. So this new generation had to accept it for themselves--they could not live on their parent's acceptance of the Covenant with God.
A second aspect we find here is that they observed the Passover. It was remembering what God had done, in bringing them out of slavery into freedom. It was a way of showing solidarity with their history, their past, and past generations. They were to observe this each year, but had not for several, so this action on their part showed their obedience to God once again.
Not only had they accepted God's covenant, they also were showing their willingness to live in obedience to Him and His commands. And these were part of the covenant God made with them. These are important things for them, as they prepare to go into the Promised Land to receive what God had promised. Spiritual preparation is always important--in fact, the most important for believers.
But then a curious passage (Josh. 5:13-15). Joshua, the leader of the Israelites, God's chosen man, goes near Jericho. As he does so, a man with a drawn sword appears before him. Joshua asks the man, "Are you for us or for our enemies?" In other words, whose side are you on. (Word had gotten around the land of Canaan that the Israelites were right near Canaan and things they had done already to other enemies--so fear was there among the people living in Canaan).
The man's response, "Neither." I am for neither you nor your enemies. And he goes on to say, "As commander of the LORD's army I have now come." Now wait a minute! Wasn't the Lord behind Joshua and the Israelites taking over this land? Wasn't He the one giving them this Promised Land?
Was this an angel of the LORD? Was it the LORD Himself? Joshua immediately bows down before the man in reverence and asks, "What message do you have for me?" He recognizes this is either God or one representing the LORD. So he asks a good question, "Why are you here? What is the message you are to deliver to me? (Angels or God doesn't just appear, it seems for no reason.)
The man before Joshua tells him to take off his sandals, because he is only holy ground. You remember this was also said to Moses at the burning bush. So it was a confirmation to Joshua that indeed "God was with him in the same way He'd been with Moses." It should build up the faith--the strength and courage (chapter 1)--of Joshua on the eve of beginning the battles to capture the land.
But what other messages were probably here? One, God is not on our side; He wants us to be on His side. Now God loves everyone; sinners as well as believers. He loves the sinner and hates the sin.
Is our side always right? Of course not. But is God's side/mind/purpose always right? Of course. So we need to come to God and listen to Him, not just ask God to "bless" our plans, our works for Him, our purposes. We should get our marching orders from Him, not He from us. A good reminder for Joshua and Israel as they enter the Promised Land.
That also says things should be done "God's way," not necessarily the way we think. God would give His people specific instructions as they captured the land. When they followed Him, they achieved success. When they didn't listen or disobeyed, they found failure. The battles were dependent on God and listening to His instructions/plans.
God doesn't need to know my plans and join me (whose side are you on), I need to know His plans and join Him.
Be aware also that when God speaks, that is "holy ground." When God chooses to speak to us, that is not the norm--the everyday--the common. Therefore, that is holy ground--a message to be heard and heeded, not taken lightly.
The Promised Land was indeed holy ground, but it was only holy ground because of God, His blessing, His covenant, His choosing, His purpose. Entering that land needed to be done in God's way and behind His leading, not just what they thought.
Are not our lives also "holy ground" as God communicates to us and wants us to "be on His side, not just He be on our side"? I need to hear from God more than He needs to hear from me. And then, I need to obey.
How might this apply to your life right now? Where do you see yourself in this story about Joshua?
Friday, October 11, 2013
PRESENCE OR ANSWERS?
"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants after" ... the healing of my disease. "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants after" ... the wisdom to grow my church. "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants after" ... a new ... and a solution to my problem.
Let's be honest. When do we really seek God, for God's sake? To spend time with Him--to cultivate a relationship with Him--to just "be" in His Presence?
I am rereading Thomas Kelly's, A Testament of Devotion, a very tiny (less than 100 pages) but challenging book written by a 20th century Quaker. There is lots of talk of the Inner Light, and other different terms for God, the Holy Spirit, Jesus being within our hearts.
As Kelly writes, I realize how I'm missing something--actually how I'm missing SomeOne. I seek to pray to "receive things" rather than praying to "meet with the LORD," the Lover of My Soul.
I believe this is probably the case with many, many believers, including religious leaders, pastors (I are one), and people seeking to disciple others (surely not them).
Have you ever felt desperate for God, for His Presence--rather than what He could do in your circumstances?
Now, when we do this, we are going to the right place--to the LORD, but we're missing something. I just got out of the hospital, being there some 7+ weeks. The first four weeks, my wife stayed there all the time, day and night. When she needed to get back to work, and was now 100 miles from me, what did I miss the most? I did not miss the "things" she did for me--nurses, doctors, tech people basically could do those things--in fact I found that I could do some of those things for myself.
What I missed the most was my wife's presence--the ability to see her, to talk personally with her, to just be together and feel the assurance and love of her being there. It just wasn't the same on the phone or texting, I have to admit.
But am I that way with God, the Inner Light, the Divine Presence? Well, no. I seek to meet with Him when I need something--a solution to my loneliness or my need for healing or more money for this bill or that want. I don't seek His Presence.
But isn't that what the Psalmist, probably David, was seeking in Psalm 42:1-2? He was wanting to spend time with God--the companionship, the assurance of Presence, the Person not the thing He could provide. I think so.
Does God give answers to prayer? Well, of course He does. Does He give wisdom and solutions and ideas of how to grow our church or have better family life or healing for our diseases? Of course.
But wouldn't it be refreshing if you and I just sought out God without an agenda of "getting something" and sought just to be in His Presence, basking in the friendship, the companionship, the love He shows just by being with us, sinful creatures forgiven and made clean so we can BE with Him, a Holy, fully Righteous God?
My challenge in days to come is to seek the Lord for the Lord's sake--rather than just to come out of need to find an answer or solution.
"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for YOU, O God. When can I come and meet with YOU?"
Let's be honest. When do we really seek God, for God's sake? To spend time with Him--to cultivate a relationship with Him--to just "be" in His Presence?
I am rereading Thomas Kelly's, A Testament of Devotion, a very tiny (less than 100 pages) but challenging book written by a 20th century Quaker. There is lots of talk of the Inner Light, and other different terms for God, the Holy Spirit, Jesus being within our hearts.
As Kelly writes, I realize how I'm missing something--actually how I'm missing SomeOne. I seek to pray to "receive things" rather than praying to "meet with the LORD," the Lover of My Soul.
I believe this is probably the case with many, many believers, including religious leaders, pastors (I are one), and people seeking to disciple others (surely not them).
Have you ever felt desperate for God, for His Presence--rather than what He could do in your circumstances?
Now, when we do this, we are going to the right place--to the LORD, but we're missing something. I just got out of the hospital, being there some 7+ weeks. The first four weeks, my wife stayed there all the time, day and night. When she needed to get back to work, and was now 100 miles from me, what did I miss the most? I did not miss the "things" she did for me--nurses, doctors, tech people basically could do those things--in fact I found that I could do some of those things for myself.
What I missed the most was my wife's presence--the ability to see her, to talk personally with her, to just be together and feel the assurance and love of her being there. It just wasn't the same on the phone or texting, I have to admit.
But am I that way with God, the Inner Light, the Divine Presence? Well, no. I seek to meet with Him when I need something--a solution to my loneliness or my need for healing or more money for this bill or that want. I don't seek His Presence.
But isn't that what the Psalmist, probably David, was seeking in Psalm 42:1-2? He was wanting to spend time with God--the companionship, the assurance of Presence, the Person not the thing He could provide. I think so.
Does God give answers to prayer? Well, of course He does. Does He give wisdom and solutions and ideas of how to grow our church or have better family life or healing for our diseases? Of course.
But wouldn't it be refreshing if you and I just sought out God without an agenda of "getting something" and sought just to be in His Presence, basking in the friendship, the companionship, the love He shows just by being with us, sinful creatures forgiven and made clean so we can BE with Him, a Holy, fully Righteous God?
My challenge in days to come is to seek the Lord for the Lord's sake--rather than just to come out of need to find an answer or solution.
"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for YOU, O God. When can I come and meet with YOU?"
Friday, October 4, 2013
NEW CREATION
An old friend reunited me with an old friend who reunited me with an old friend. Yesterday, I had a visit with a friend I went to high school with. He brought a book by Thomas Kelly, titled, A Testimony of Devotion, in which reading brought me a very, very familiar Scripture verse. (Do you see the three old friends here?)
By the way, if you have never read the small devotional book by Thomas Kelly that I mentioned (Testament), pick up or borrow a copy and do not read it. Slow down and savor it--take it slowly, ponder it, meditate on what is within as God reveals Himself to you through this Quaker writer of the 20th century.
The third old friend, the Scripture verse, 2 Corinthians 5:17, is what I blog about today. I've read it, quoted it, thought about it (I guess not enough--though there is always more "meat" from Scripture, as we meditate further upon it.), and shared it with others. But today, God brought new insights.
"Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature." Another version says "new creation."
Creation--where God created "out of nothing." Where God made things He'd not made before. Where God uniquely made each thing upon this earth, including human beings--woman and man.
Creation--where God brought order out of chaos--where He brought form out of nothingness.
2 Corinthians 5:17 We often think of this as a transformation of the person who accepts Christ as Saviour--but does that go far enough? Think of the descriptions of creation and even creature. Something unique to itself--something totally new--something unlike what it was like before.
When a person comes to Christ as Saviour, there is a total change, not a reforming of what was. There is a creation out of nothing--a totally different creature unlike the one before--a bringing order out of the chaos of one's life.
I often just seek change without changing the inner core. God seeks the total change--total creation of a totally different creature from the one before. That is a much bigger change than most of us want or are willing to seek.
Are you a totally different "creature" than you were before accepting Jesus? Are you totally refocused from self to Christ? That's what God did in "salvation" and coming to be "in Christ." Are you allowing Him to continue to do that process of "total creation" in you?
Don't get overly familiar with "old friends"--so overly familiar that you are not willing to be changed by new insights they may want to bring you--or that God may want to bring you.
"If anyone is in Christ, he/she is a totally new creature--totally new creation of God."
By the way, if you have never read the small devotional book by Thomas Kelly that I mentioned (Testament), pick up or borrow a copy and do not read it. Slow down and savor it--take it slowly, ponder it, meditate on what is within as God reveals Himself to you through this Quaker writer of the 20th century.
The third old friend, the Scripture verse, 2 Corinthians 5:17, is what I blog about today. I've read it, quoted it, thought about it (I guess not enough--though there is always more "meat" from Scripture, as we meditate further upon it.), and shared it with others. But today, God brought new insights.
"Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature." Another version says "new creation."
Creation--where God created "out of nothing." Where God made things He'd not made before. Where God uniquely made each thing upon this earth, including human beings--woman and man.
Creation--where God brought order out of chaos--where He brought form out of nothingness.
2 Corinthians 5:17 We often think of this as a transformation of the person who accepts Christ as Saviour--but does that go far enough? Think of the descriptions of creation and even creature. Something unique to itself--something totally new--something unlike what it was like before.
When a person comes to Christ as Saviour, there is a total change, not a reforming of what was. There is a creation out of nothing--a totally different creature unlike the one before--a bringing order out of the chaos of one's life.
I often just seek change without changing the inner core. God seeks the total change--total creation of a totally different creature from the one before. That is a much bigger change than most of us want or are willing to seek.
Are you a totally different "creature" than you were before accepting Jesus? Are you totally refocused from self to Christ? That's what God did in "salvation" and coming to be "in Christ." Are you allowing Him to continue to do that process of "total creation" in you?
Don't get overly familiar with "old friends"--so overly familiar that you are not willing to be changed by new insights they may want to bring you--or that God may want to bring you.
"If anyone is in Christ, he/she is a totally new creature--totally new creation of God."
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
GREATEST PROVISION
What is the great thing God has provided for you? And as you answer, I am going to say, "no, no, and no."
Some will talk about the physical--the family, the house, the money, etc. But is that really the greatest provision you have received from God?
Some will get really spiritual and say, "salvation, heaven, being part of God's church? But are those really the greatest things God has provided for you?
Think about Abraham's call in Genesis12, 15, etc. Think about chapter 22. Was it the ram--saving his promised covenant son--a test overcome? No.
Think of anyone in the hall of fame of faith in Hebrews 11.
Think of the prophets, the Apostles, Paul.
What was the greatest provision of God for all of them, and for you if you are a believer in Christ? It was GOD HIMSELF. He gave you Himself.
Jehovah Jireh--"The LORD my provider."
The greatest provision was, is, and will continue to be--Himself.
He pursued a relationship with you--you didn't pursue Him. He offered you a relationship, a friendship, a covenant, an offer to communicate with Him through Jesus. And He also provided Himself to dwell within the believer in the Holy Spirit--God living inside of you.
So when you thank God for His provisions, certainly thank Him for His physical and emotional blessings. For heaven, salvation, life eternal, church.
But never forget to thank Him for the greatest Provision--that of Himself. Amazing that a Holy God, a Perfect God, a God who is love, an All-Powerful, All-Knowing, All-Everything God would want a relationship--a friendship--a covenant, with you or me!
God's greatest Provision is Himself. Bask in that today.
Some will talk about the physical--the family, the house, the money, etc. But is that really the greatest provision you have received from God?
Some will get really spiritual and say, "salvation, heaven, being part of God's church? But are those really the greatest things God has provided for you?
Think about Abraham's call in Genesis12, 15, etc. Think about chapter 22. Was it the ram--saving his promised covenant son--a test overcome? No.
Think of anyone in the hall of fame of faith in Hebrews 11.
Think of the prophets, the Apostles, Paul.
What was the greatest provision of God for all of them, and for you if you are a believer in Christ? It was GOD HIMSELF. He gave you Himself.
Jehovah Jireh--"The LORD my provider."
The greatest provision was, is, and will continue to be--Himself.
He pursued a relationship with you--you didn't pursue Him. He offered you a relationship, a friendship, a covenant, an offer to communicate with Him through Jesus. And He also provided Himself to dwell within the believer in the Holy Spirit--God living inside of you.
So when you thank God for His provisions, certainly thank Him for His physical and emotional blessings. For heaven, salvation, life eternal, church.
But never forget to thank Him for the greatest Provision--that of Himself. Amazing that a Holy God, a Perfect God, a God who is love, an All-Powerful, All-Knowing, All-Everything God would want a relationship--a friendship--a covenant, with you or me!
God's greatest Provision is Himself. Bask in that today.
Friday, September 27, 2013
LIVES WELL LIVED
As a boy, I played basketball for my school, the Thompsonville Tigers. In elementary, we played a much smaller town called Akin. I don't remember whether we ever beat them or not, but one thing I remember is playing against two guys named Miller--brothers a year apart. And in the stands watching was a husband and wife with two other little Miller clones--I mean, these guys looked alike.
During teen years, I visited a little church, I guess to do special music, called Steeleville Baptist Church (you would turn just before Benton, by a farm implement company. By the way, later the daughter of that farm implement company was my pastor's wife in T-ville.
A little later, our church had a very active youth program and singing group called "The Happenings." (Well remember, this was the 60's). Eventually this family, the Miller family, came to join our church, and what a blessing to us they were. Gene wanted to be sure he kept his boys active in church, and ours was the place for the time.
I was the age of Larry and Dennis, and then a few years younger were Rodney and Paul. And they were active in the youth group--we went on mission trips (one time to Louisville Kentucky), other churches to sing, lock ins, retreats, and God used our pastor, Jerry Pyle, to bless the youth and grow the youth. Three preachers, to my knowledge, came out of the group, but many, many serious commitments to Christ were made that influence the rest of our lives.
Eventually, youth grow up and go their separate ways and pastors go God's ways. After Jerry was when a guy a year older than me, Richard Shaw (wife was the farm implement owner's daughter), and they were a great blessing to me as I finished college and had an interim time at home before I got my teaching job.
Had not seen Rodney Miller nor heard of him since, but had occasionally seen his older brothers--one of whom married a gal from our youth group. They were very active in church (Gene and his wife passed along not just church going, but genuine faith, and it "caught." as they lived in the area. But Rod has been, I guess, over many places, and to Georgia where he lives with a fine looking family.
Now he has begun a new endeavor called Small Town/Big Deal, where he is telling the stories of small towns and their peoples on RFD-TV. (Also available on the internet--Google it). When I came down with my leukemia, we got back in touch with one another.
In Proverbs, I believe 22:6, says, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it." I've heard it preached as a promise of God, but that's not really so. It is wisdom literature--wise sayings that generally occur in life, but not a guarantee. Many Christians would attest, sadly to the fact it is not a promise, but continues to be their prayer for their kids.
In general, if we train up a child God's way, and in the way the child should go, the child will follow that path through life, or return to that path at some point.
The Miller family is still being blessed through a hard working farm family that "trained up their children in a godly way," and they are still being blessed because of it.
Thanks Rodney for reconnecting.
One other thing I want to say, God's way for Rod and I have been different through life. But that was God's intention and plan. God used who we were and our faith to mold us into who we are today. God wants to do that for you too. So seek the Lord while He may be found, trust Him, and He will do it.
Shalom.
During teen years, I visited a little church, I guess to do special music, called Steeleville Baptist Church (you would turn just before Benton, by a farm implement company. By the way, later the daughter of that farm implement company was my pastor's wife in T-ville.
A little later, our church had a very active youth program and singing group called "The Happenings." (Well remember, this was the 60's). Eventually this family, the Miller family, came to join our church, and what a blessing to us they were. Gene wanted to be sure he kept his boys active in church, and ours was the place for the time.
I was the age of Larry and Dennis, and then a few years younger were Rodney and Paul. And they were active in the youth group--we went on mission trips (one time to Louisville Kentucky), other churches to sing, lock ins, retreats, and God used our pastor, Jerry Pyle, to bless the youth and grow the youth. Three preachers, to my knowledge, came out of the group, but many, many serious commitments to Christ were made that influence the rest of our lives.
Eventually, youth grow up and go their separate ways and pastors go God's ways. After Jerry was when a guy a year older than me, Richard Shaw (wife was the farm implement owner's daughter), and they were a great blessing to me as I finished college and had an interim time at home before I got my teaching job.
Had not seen Rodney Miller nor heard of him since, but had occasionally seen his older brothers--one of whom married a gal from our youth group. They were very active in church (Gene and his wife passed along not just church going, but genuine faith, and it "caught." as they lived in the area. But Rod has been, I guess, over many places, and to Georgia where he lives with a fine looking family.
Now he has begun a new endeavor called Small Town/Big Deal, where he is telling the stories of small towns and their peoples on RFD-TV. (Also available on the internet--Google it). When I came down with my leukemia, we got back in touch with one another.
In Proverbs, I believe 22:6, says, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it." I've heard it preached as a promise of God, but that's not really so. It is wisdom literature--wise sayings that generally occur in life, but not a guarantee. Many Christians would attest, sadly to the fact it is not a promise, but continues to be their prayer for their kids.
In general, if we train up a child God's way, and in the way the child should go, the child will follow that path through life, or return to that path at some point.
The Miller family is still being blessed through a hard working farm family that "trained up their children in a godly way," and they are still being blessed because of it.
Thanks Rodney for reconnecting.
One other thing I want to say, God's way for Rod and I have been different through life. But that was God's intention and plan. God used who we were and our faith to mold us into who we are today. God wants to do that for you too. So seek the Lord while He may be found, trust Him, and He will do it.
Shalom.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Do Something
A few months ago, I led a small group through a study, titled, "Real Life Discipleship Training Manual." It was a workbook designed to teach groups principles to lead small discipling groups.
One of the things within that was that in the discipleship process, there was God's part, the leaders part and our part. Each is important in the process of growing into a disciple of Jesus Christ.
In the late 1970's, when I was studying at Southwestern Seminary in Ft Worth, Texas, there was a professor of counseling called John Drakeford. One of Dr. Drakeford's important statements was, "Act yourself into a new way of feeling." There are times when we don't "feel" like doing something, following God, witnessing, getting out of bed. But the point was, at times, we just had to overcome out feelings by taking action--doing something, and the feelings would follow.
In the Christian life, that is often the case, as it is with me now on chemotherapy. At times, there seems to be no flavor to my food. At times, to keep up my strength, I have to just force myself to eat something, even with no flavor. But I know I have to eat to work though what is going on in my body right now. So I do what I can to "act myself into a new way of feeling."
God's part is the healing, and the doctors/nurses are co-laborers in that process. But also I am part of that too, as I do MY part.
Nike said in ads a few years years ago, "Just do it!" And so often to grow in Christian discipleship, that is what's necessary. I don't "feel" like it; but I must just "do it," following the Lord's instructions; even when I don't understand, don't want to, feel I can't. The power is His; the motivation is His; but I am to follow to obey.
What is it today that you need to "act yourself into a new way of feeling," as you seek to follow the Lord and become His more fully committed disciple?
One of the things within that was that in the discipleship process, there was God's part, the leaders part and our part. Each is important in the process of growing into a disciple of Jesus Christ.
In the late 1970's, when I was studying at Southwestern Seminary in Ft Worth, Texas, there was a professor of counseling called John Drakeford. One of Dr. Drakeford's important statements was, "Act yourself into a new way of feeling." There are times when we don't "feel" like doing something, following God, witnessing, getting out of bed. But the point was, at times, we just had to overcome out feelings by taking action--doing something, and the feelings would follow.
In the Christian life, that is often the case, as it is with me now on chemotherapy. At times, there seems to be no flavor to my food. At times, to keep up my strength, I have to just force myself to eat something, even with no flavor. But I know I have to eat to work though what is going on in my body right now. So I do what I can to "act myself into a new way of feeling."
God's part is the healing, and the doctors/nurses are co-laborers in that process. But also I am part of that too, as I do MY part.
Nike said in ads a few years years ago, "Just do it!" And so often to grow in Christian discipleship, that is what's necessary. I don't "feel" like it; but I must just "do it," following the Lord's instructions; even when I don't understand, don't want to, feel I can't. The power is His; the motivation is His; but I am to follow to obey.
What is it today that you need to "act yourself into a new way of feeling," as you seek to follow the Lord and become His more fully committed disciple?
Monday, September 16, 2013
GUYS, GET REAL
Yes, guys, get real--be a man--face up to it. You are going to die. (Whoa, didn't like this beginning.) But I'm going to get very practical at the end in "being prepared" (Boy Scout motto)
Experience tells us this. How many people do you know who are over 100 years old? What happened to all the others who did not live that long? Get real, guys, get real. Will you be the exception? Why you? How so?
Jewish Wisdom Literature tells us so.
Experience tells us this. How many people do you know who are over 100 years old? What happened to all the others who did not live that long? Get real, guys, get real. Will you be the exception? Why you? How so?
Jewish Wisdom Literature tells us so.
3 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.
(Ecclesiastes 3:3-8, NIV, biblegateway.com)
"A time to be born, and a time to die." In the verses, a series of contrasts--but I really don't like the pair with which he begins. Couldn't he have eased us into it like a good modern author? Nope, straight to the point. Limits to our earthly existence--a beginning and an ending.
But guys don't really believe this? Do they? Nah. I will beat the odds. I will be the one exception. Bee Gee's phrase from one of their disco songs, "I'm Gonna Live Forever." (Maybe in the movie, "Saturday Night Fever.")
So we go against experience and we go against 3000 year old wisdom literature, and say, "Not me." Guys, get real!
So how do you prepare for death when you're fully alive--enjoying life? Why even think about it? Because we all have people in our lives who love us. Because we all have people in our lives whom we love. Because we all have purposes, things we want to achieve, but time is limited. "A time to be born, and a time to die."
- You quit thinking "I'm invincible"--nothing can happen to me.
- You actually go to the doctor regularly (by the way, here I mean medical doctor not PhD). As a boy, as a teen, as a 30's I can do it all guy, throughout life. Diseases do not wait until we are 60 or 70 to hit us. May I also add, you regularly go to your dentist for consistent oral care. This way you protect those who love you and those you love. Regularly may be defined by your doctor according to age. Maybe a one year check on younger men, but every six months or so as we age. Their the experts in medical areas--listen to them. You're the expert in what YOU do.
- If you're not sure the doctor is correct about something or if he doesn't listen to you, then seek a second or third opinion--another doctor, maybe in your city or a city nearby.
- When a doctor gives you medications to take or things you are to do, follow them, unless they cause you complications. If they do, call him back; tell him; get a change. Everyone of us is uniquely made by God, and one medication doesn't work for us all.
- Realize that God gave these physicians, nurses, medical people special knowledge, special education, special compassion to help us live life longer and more healthily. I want life to be quantity, but I want life to be quality. I want to live this life able to enjoy it to the utmost
- Realize you are more than just a physical being. You are also an emotional, social, spiritual being. We all have emotions. We all need friends and love and support. And, I believe, strongly, we all need a relationship with the Creator of the first humans. How did the first two humans get here? Genesis says, "They were created by God; male and female, He created them." (Genesis 2) For me, that makes sense that they had to have their start by Someone greater than they were.
- As a Christian, that means for me, I investigate the truth claims of Jesus as found in the New Testament. Could He really be the Jewish Messiah mentioned in the Old Testament that lived, died, and came alive again after death as written in the New Testament? (That one's hard to believe--life again after dying!)
You are going to die. But this God LOVES you. He wants to guide you to make wise decisions in this life, even decisions about going to the doctor to love your loved ones better. He would love to give you long life; but He is most interested about quality of your life. A life that is really happy and fulfilled and productive.
But He also said, through Jesus in John 14: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God[a]; believe also in me. 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. (NIV, biblegateway.com)
Jesus lived. Jesus died. Jesus came alive. Jesus will return for those who belong to Him. And they will live with Him and God forever--eternally--no ending to that life.
Be prepared! Death will come. Young, 30 somethings, 80's; it will come. Take care of yourself and your loved ones by being practical in the meantime, but also prepare that if that day came today, you are also ready to meet God and live with Him forever. Check out Jesus Christ.
Be prepared!
(By the way, I note that of the followers of this blog, most are women or most "likes" on Facebook from it are women. I guess my style is just better read by them or they tolerate long posts. But maybe some of them need to read this to you, their man, their husbands, their lovers, their friends)
Sunday, September 15, 2013
DO YOU WANT TO GET WELL?
In John chapter 5, Jesus asks a man an interesting question, but one we must all answer for healing to come. "Do you WANT to get well?"
Within healing there are, it three involved (a Trinity, if you will). One of those is the Great Physician--God--Jesus--and he is THE ULTIMATE HEALER. He put within our bodies great systems to heal itself, to move blood, to move oxygen, to move cells to kill infection. Pretty great idea, right?
But also this same God decided to, at times, use miracles such as Jesus did in John 5,where a man 38 years in an invalid condition, got up to walk at Jesus request.
So 1) God is Ultimate Healer
Second within the healing realm are the medical facilities, medications, doctors, nurses, staff, that discover, promote, educate and provide their knowledge to healing. Many acknowledge that God is the ultimate healer, but whether they do or not, they work with existing systems that they did not put into place in the human body. They tweak, and discover, and learn new ways and technologies to aid the healing.
Third, is the patient--you, me, us. Each of us need a hope, a reason, a purpose, people in our life that make us want to be healed. When hope is gone, physicians can go no farther. Hope is necessary to the healing process. It is easy to live a long-haul disease and give up hope for improvement--that life can get any better. For some who are very old, that may be God's way of helping them get less settled and comfortable with this world, and prepare to enter the world to come.
But for younger ones of us, God may want to give us hope through encouragers, family, supporters, churches, a new granddaughter (just thought I'd throw that one in, since I have one--want to see pics?). He may want to give us hope through reading the Bible, through prayer for change, through gifts or love brought from friends, family, church members.
Two Sundays ago, I received a bombard of text messages at Barnes Hospital. My pastor, Wes, had at a certain time in their service, people with cell phones take our phone number and send messages of prayer, encouragement, love, hope to us. WHAT AN ENCOURAGEMENT! Novel idea--Turn your cell phone ON, not OFF, during worship as a tool of ministry. THANKS PASTOR WES.
But three parts, and that is where the question of Jesus comes in. "Do you WANT to get well?"
Whatever the ailment, YOU have something to do about your healing, your overcoming whatever the problem or affliction is. YOU have to WANT to get well.
God's Part
Medical Staff Part
Your Part
Do you want to get well? Keep up the hope, the purpose, the "want to" so you too can overcome.
Within healing there are, it three involved (a Trinity, if you will). One of those is the Great Physician--God--Jesus--and he is THE ULTIMATE HEALER. He put within our bodies great systems to heal itself, to move blood, to move oxygen, to move cells to kill infection. Pretty great idea, right?
But also this same God decided to, at times, use miracles such as Jesus did in John 5,where a man 38 years in an invalid condition, got up to walk at Jesus request.
So 1) God is Ultimate Healer
Second within the healing realm are the medical facilities, medications, doctors, nurses, staff, that discover, promote, educate and provide their knowledge to healing. Many acknowledge that God is the ultimate healer, but whether they do or not, they work with existing systems that they did not put into place in the human body. They tweak, and discover, and learn new ways and technologies to aid the healing.
Third, is the patient--you, me, us. Each of us need a hope, a reason, a purpose, people in our life that make us want to be healed. When hope is gone, physicians can go no farther. Hope is necessary to the healing process. It is easy to live a long-haul disease and give up hope for improvement--that life can get any better. For some who are very old, that may be God's way of helping them get less settled and comfortable with this world, and prepare to enter the world to come.
But for younger ones of us, God may want to give us hope through encouragers, family, supporters, churches, a new granddaughter (just thought I'd throw that one in, since I have one--want to see pics?). He may want to give us hope through reading the Bible, through prayer for change, through gifts or love brought from friends, family, church members.
Two Sundays ago, I received a bombard of text messages at Barnes Hospital. My pastor, Wes, had at a certain time in their service, people with cell phones take our phone number and send messages of prayer, encouragement, love, hope to us. WHAT AN ENCOURAGEMENT! Novel idea--Turn your cell phone ON, not OFF, during worship as a tool of ministry. THANKS PASTOR WES.
But three parts, and that is where the question of Jesus comes in. "Do you WANT to get well?"
Whatever the ailment, YOU have something to do about your healing, your overcoming whatever the problem or affliction is. YOU have to WANT to get well.
God's Part
Medical Staff Part
Your Part
Do you want to get well? Keep up the hope, the purpose, the "want to" so you too can overcome.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
FATHER GOD, WHY?
As I sit in this hospital room, beginning the second round of chemo for leukemia, these things I ask the Father God:
Whether it's 62 years, or 92 (like my father) or 100 (like my mother), I give thanks to the LORD for He is good, and His lovingkindness is everlasting. Join me in giving thanks to the LORD.
- Why do You allow me, a fulltime minister of yours for over 30 years, to be suddenly unemployed before retirement age?
- Why do You allow a person who was called "the youngest 60 year old I know," suddenly to be fighting for his physical life at 62 with cancer?
- Why God, after a year of unemployment, but now hired in a full time teaching position, am I not allowed to teach one day of the school year?
- Why God, do you strike down one seeking to preach and teach effectively your Word to others at the peak of his gifting and knowledge?
- Why Lord, do you give a man a wife who is his best friend for 36 years, and make his days wonderful due to her dedication and love?
- Why do you grant children to be proud of, and a grandchild to be proud of as well?
- Why do you allow a little boy from a small town literally to impact people around the world without leaving his home state?
- Why do allow me a love relationship with You, the King of the Universe Creator, Provider, Sustainer, Redeemer?
- Why did you give me such loving parents who believed marriage was for life, and lived it over 60 years?
- Why did you allow me to have received an inheritance, that paid off my house before this illness was made known?
- Why do you have a special place prepared for me, with other disciples of yours, to worship you forever and ever, and why is that secure, so that I do not worry what will happen if the next breath does not come?
Whether it's 62 years, or 92 (like my father) or 100 (like my mother), I give thanks to the LORD for He is good, and His lovingkindness is everlasting. Join me in giving thanks to the LORD.
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