A few years ago in a neighboring community to where I lived at the time, we heard the news of a tragic airplane crash. It seems a family from a distant state had a loved one, a child at my recollection, who was critically injured on a trip to our community. The family all flew in on a private plane. The small airport they had chosen to land at was virtually shut down late at night. The lights to the runway would come on automatically as a plane approached and sent the signal, otherwise the runway was dark.
Unfamiliar with the airport, the pilot was flying in late night/early morning trying to find the landing strip. He circled the area that he thought was the airport. He lined himself up with what he thought were the lights to the runway and proceeded to land his plane in a housing development a few miles from the airport. He took out several houses while people slept and killed everyone on the plane.
There was only one place to land safely. It was a narrow strip of runway. The child in the hospital recovered, but his family all perished because the pilot didn't get on the right path. Sincerity is not enough. You have to be on the right path.
It seems like God's way is always narrow. He says, "This way." The choice He leaves to us. Many choose not follow God's way seeking an alternative path. Any way but God's way leads to destruction. There is no easy way around the path to which God calls us.
God, please lead me down your narrow path to life. Activate your lights to show me the way. Forgive me when I choose to take the wrong path and guide me back to the path that leads to you.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Daily Reflections on Isa. 43:1-7 (I'm Drowning)
It occurred to me as I read this passage that for the people of this day, Isaiah's day, crossing rivers must have been a scary thing at times. They didn't have bridges like we do. Crossing any river was an adventure. They had to worry about current, depth, wild critters in the water, kids, livestock, the possibility of washing down stream, etc. God says, "I'll be with you. I won't let you be overflowed." What a reassuring promise.
Seems like we live in harried society. There's so much in our life that we feel overflowed, or that we're gonna drown just trying to keep up. The pressures build and build and build. The river is out of its bank and running wild. We've all seen pictures or video of houses washing away as floods rage out of control. All of the stresses and busyness of life threatens our homes and lives much the same way.
That's why its so important to hang onto God for stability, hope, protection, guidance and HELP. When things are out of control, He's still in control.
God, thank you for paying the price for us and for looking out for us. You truly are an awesome God.
Seems like we live in harried society. There's so much in our life that we feel overflowed, or that we're gonna drown just trying to keep up. The pressures build and build and build. The river is out of its bank and running wild. We've all seen pictures or video of houses washing away as floods rage out of control. All of the stresses and busyness of life threatens our homes and lives much the same way.
That's why its so important to hang onto God for stability, hope, protection, guidance and HELP. When things are out of control, He's still in control.
God, thank you for paying the price for us and for looking out for us. You truly are an awesome God.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Daily Reflections on Phil. 2:12-13 (Practicing His Presence)
In school, my classmates and I always looked forward to the days we had a substitute teacher. There was no organized plan, but everyone knew just what to do. It was an in school vacation day. Since our sub never knew our class rules, we’d make them up as we went along. We knew that we couldn’t be too outlandish or the sub would catch on and batten down the hatches. But, if we worked it right, we could get away with a lot of stuff that normally would be prohibited. We weren’t destructive or cruel, just looking to make life a little easier.
How does that saying go, “When the cat’s away, the mice will play?” When the authority isn’t looking, we take a lot of license. It’s amazing the difference of our speed on the same stretch of road when we notice the speed trap versus when no cops are in sight. I’ve played golf with guys whose best wood in their bag was a pencil. When you keep your own score, you can write down anything you want. You might call this a “scratch” golfer because they scratch out one score and write in a better one.
Many professed followers of Christ do the same thing in their spiritual walk. When they’re at church or Bible Study or a spiritual retreat of some sort, they are so focused on learning, listening and doing what God wants. But away from those environs their behavior changes. Focus is lost. Godliness or holiness slips from view and thought and behavior. They find themselves blending into their surroundings.
Without accountability by others, many believers in Christ lose sight of their faith and the principles by which God calls us to live. It’s really a matter of personal discipline. The “Out of sight, out of mind” mentality is deadly for a Christian. The Apostle Paul admonishes us to be vigilant in our faith. He urges us to practice our faith more diligently when we’re away from our Bible studies and church gatherings. He says open yourself to God’s leading and teaching throughout your day. Rely on His Holy Spirit to live to His glory.
God, if I could only learn to practice your presence day by day, moment by moment I know you’d be able to form me after your will. I’m trying, Lord. Sometimes I get so preoccupied by life’s circumstances and stresses that I forget about you. I act as if you’re not there or not watching. I want to grow in this area.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Daily Reflections on Rev. 2:18-25 (Sexual Revolution or Sexual Malaise)
They called it the Sexual Revolution in the late 60's and early 70's. "Make love, not war," was a common phrase. Communes developed around the country. "It's time to be from your sexual inhibitions." Today the sexual revolution has turned into the sexual malaise. We are bombarded daily by sexual overtones and innuendos wherever we go.
We hear that sex sells. My question, what does sex have to do with car insurance? I've heard of some strange fetishes, but car insurance? Ads, TV, movies, magazines promote their product with sex. It's hard to find a TV show that doesn't incorporate sex as a major component.
Casual sex, free sex, friends with benefits have become a normal part of today's culture. Pornography has taken over the internet. Even with my spam filters set on high, my email inbox fills up with offers for Viagra or Cialis on a daily basis. It's almost impossible to get away fro the sexual onslaught. CBS photoshopped promo shots of Katie Couric to make her look thinner and more shapely in her run up to taking the evening anchor desk. And would somebody please buy Brittany Spears some underwear.
The message is, "If you're not having sex, you're not normal." What saddens me is that we, as followers of Christ, have accepted that message and allowed this infectious preoccupation with sex to flow into the church as something normal. It's like we expect our teens and young adults to be sexually active. Abortions, STDs, pornography addictions, divorces, child sexual abuse cases are at an all time high in the US. Teachers having sex with students are weekly stories on the news. Birth control is being handed out in some schools to 11 year olds.
Where's the the church in this? The misuse of sex is destroying our society. The might Roman Empire was brought down in part by their sexual immorality and sexual addiction. The US is quickly headed in that direction without a voice that heralds the warning. Unfortunately, the church of America draws a striking resemblance to the church of Thyatira in Revelation, chapter 2. Our culture needs to hear teaching about healthy sex, healthy relationships and healthy marriages. The bed of suffering is quickly coming. The time for changing our thinking to God's way of thinking is now. Since God invented sex, He might have a thing or two to say that would be worth listening and adhering.
God, the sexual inundation of our culture affects me. I know I'm being desensitized. My barriers are lowered to what I allow myself to watch and accept. Help me to resist in this area of spiritual attack. Help me have the wisdom and courage to hold up your truths in this area of life. Protect me, my wife, my daughters, my church from this destructive assailant.
We hear that sex sells. My question, what does sex have to do with car insurance? I've heard of some strange fetishes, but car insurance? Ads, TV, movies, magazines promote their product with sex. It's hard to find a TV show that doesn't incorporate sex as a major component.
Casual sex, free sex, friends with benefits have become a normal part of today's culture. Pornography has taken over the internet. Even with my spam filters set on high, my email inbox fills up with offers for Viagra or Cialis on a daily basis. It's almost impossible to get away fro the sexual onslaught. CBS photoshopped promo shots of Katie Couric to make her look thinner and more shapely in her run up to taking the evening anchor desk. And would somebody please buy Brittany Spears some underwear.
The message is, "If you're not having sex, you're not normal." What saddens me is that we, as followers of Christ, have accepted that message and allowed this infectious preoccupation with sex to flow into the church as something normal. It's like we expect our teens and young adults to be sexually active. Abortions, STDs, pornography addictions, divorces, child sexual abuse cases are at an all time high in the US. Teachers having sex with students are weekly stories on the news. Birth control is being handed out in some schools to 11 year olds.
Where's the the church in this? The misuse of sex is destroying our society. The might Roman Empire was brought down in part by their sexual immorality and sexual addiction. The US is quickly headed in that direction without a voice that heralds the warning. Unfortunately, the church of America draws a striking resemblance to the church of Thyatira in Revelation, chapter 2. Our culture needs to hear teaching about healthy sex, healthy relationships and healthy marriages. The bed of suffering is quickly coming. The time for changing our thinking to God's way of thinking is now. Since God invented sex, He might have a thing or two to say that would be worth listening and adhering.
God, the sexual inundation of our culture affects me. I know I'm being desensitized. My barriers are lowered to what I allow myself to watch and accept. Help me to resist in this area of spiritual attack. Help me have the wisdom and courage to hold up your truths in this area of life. Protect me, my wife, my daughters, my church from this destructive assailant.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Daily Reflections on Gal. 6:9-10 (Brighten the Corner)
Some days I've just had it with people. Rudeness abounds. There are days in which people drive me absolutely, certifiably crazy with their attitudes and behaviors. I can get up in the morning cheery as usual and have so many run ins with rude, mean, arrogant people that I'm ready to kick my dog when I get home or anyone else for that matter.
Having worked in retail while I was pursing grad school, I feel sorry for store clerks at Christmastime, especially the last few days before Christmas. The griping, the complaining, the arguing, the pressing, the rudeness of customers take their toll. It's hard to smile and say, "Have a nice day." What you really want to say is .... So I've decided I'm going to treat the cashier as a person and engage them in personal conversation about themselves and their duress. I try to relate to the pressure of their job and circumstance. Their response is usually amazing. Some people actually take a deep breath as if to relax.
Doing good come in a variety of forms. I try to make it a habit of thanking people for doing their jobs that are particularly monotonous or stressful or unpleasant or those who have to work weird hours or holidays. I just simply say, "Thanks for being here." "Thanks for doing what you're doing." I've found that by doing that even if I've been inconvenienced or treated discourteously not only does it brighten their day and ease our tension, it helps me maintain a positive spirit.
Here's the rub. It's hard for me to have a "doing good to others" attitude all the time. I can be demanding, critical, or arrogant myself. Something doesn't meet my standards or go my way, well let's just say I can be very expressive or demonstrative. There are times when I know that I'm being played, taken advantage of, or used. I don't feel like being, I mean, doing good at those moments. I can be very vociferous in defending an idea or a principle.
Yet, here's what I know as a sufferer of hypertension, the more I engage in negative or antagonistic behavior, the higher my blood pressure rises. Doing good to others actually lowers my bp and benefits me. I'm not in a knot all the time and life is better for me.
God, I don't feel like doing good to others sometimes. I get frustrated and angry and agitated. Give me strength to not be weary in well doing.
Having worked in retail while I was pursing grad school, I feel sorry for store clerks at Christmastime, especially the last few days before Christmas. The griping, the complaining, the arguing, the pressing, the rudeness of customers take their toll. It's hard to smile and say, "Have a nice day." What you really want to say is .... So I've decided I'm going to treat the cashier as a person and engage them in personal conversation about themselves and their duress. I try to relate to the pressure of their job and circumstance. Their response is usually amazing. Some people actually take a deep breath as if to relax.
Doing good come in a variety of forms. I try to make it a habit of thanking people for doing their jobs that are particularly monotonous or stressful or unpleasant or those who have to work weird hours or holidays. I just simply say, "Thanks for being here." "Thanks for doing what you're doing." I've found that by doing that even if I've been inconvenienced or treated discourteously not only does it brighten their day and ease our tension, it helps me maintain a positive spirit.
Here's the rub. It's hard for me to have a "doing good to others" attitude all the time. I can be demanding, critical, or arrogant myself. Something doesn't meet my standards or go my way, well let's just say I can be very expressive or demonstrative. There are times when I know that I'm being played, taken advantage of, or used. I don't feel like being, I mean, doing good at those moments. I can be very vociferous in defending an idea or a principle.
Yet, here's what I know as a sufferer of hypertension, the more I engage in negative or antagonistic behavior, the higher my blood pressure rises. Doing good to others actually lowers my bp and benefits me. I'm not in a knot all the time and life is better for me.
God, I don't feel like doing good to others sometimes. I get frustrated and angry and agitated. Give me strength to not be weary in well doing.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Daily Reflections on Rom. 14:1-8 (Fussing)
What's all the fuss about? I really get tired of all the petty bickering among church people. I mean, come on! I was just thinking about all the things that unnecessarily caused a ruckus in churches where I've served or simply attended. It's really stupid if you ask me.
You decide, are the following worth fighting about, arguing over, or getting bent out of shape? Let's start with the preacher's looks; the length of hair, style of hair, a tie or no tie in the pulpit (especially at Easter), daily attire, must be in the office for regular working hours or must be out making calls all day, teacher or evangelist, pastor or administrator?
How about worship stuff? What time should worship be? Chairs or pews? Traditional, contemporary, or blended worship (music) style? What type of communion bread? How should communion be served? Who gets to partake of the Lord's Supper? Can guitars and/or drums be used in "Morning Worship?" Do we use hymn books, overheads, slides or video projection? Can we eat or bring coffee to morning worship (in the auditorium/sanctuary) or Sunday School?
What about teaching material? Which translation should be used? Who can teach? Who can serve? Who can baptize? What's proper church attire? What or who is spiritual? Are speaking in tongues allowed? Graded worship or kids in church services?
I haven't begun to scratch the surface of issues I've had to deal with which caused great consternation, broken relationships, severed ties, and sleepless nights. To be honest, most of the divisiveness I've dealt with through the years has been over incidental issues. For the most part, they aren't even really biblical issues. My guess is God is just slapping Himself on the forehead saying to Himself, "You've got to be kidding?"
God, gave us all the ability to choose. With choice comes opinions. With opinions comes differences. With differences comes disagreements. With disagreements comes arguments With arguments comes conflict. With conflict comes division. With division comes a negative picture of the church. With the negative picture of the church comes lost lives that will never come to know Christ as Lord and Savior.
My oldest daughter painted her room pink. My youngest daughter painted her room purple. My wife would like to paint our room country blue. I prefer off-white. We all have different tastes, but we all live harmoniously in the same house, under the same roof.
God, I just want to honor you with my life. I want others to honor you with their lives. I want our church to honor you. Help me quell any negative or critical spirit within my own heart or my church's hearts.
You decide, are the following worth fighting about, arguing over, or getting bent out of shape? Let's start with the preacher's looks; the length of hair, style of hair, a tie or no tie in the pulpit (especially at Easter), daily attire, must be in the office for regular working hours or must be out making calls all day, teacher or evangelist, pastor or administrator?
How about worship stuff? What time should worship be? Chairs or pews? Traditional, contemporary, or blended worship (music) style? What type of communion bread? How should communion be served? Who gets to partake of the Lord's Supper? Can guitars and/or drums be used in "Morning Worship?" Do we use hymn books, overheads, slides or video projection? Can we eat or bring coffee to morning worship (in the auditorium/sanctuary) or Sunday School?
What about teaching material? Which translation should be used? Who can teach? Who can serve? Who can baptize? What's proper church attire? What or who is spiritual? Are speaking in tongues allowed? Graded worship or kids in church services?
I haven't begun to scratch the surface of issues I've had to deal with which caused great consternation, broken relationships, severed ties, and sleepless nights. To be honest, most of the divisiveness I've dealt with through the years has been over incidental issues. For the most part, they aren't even really biblical issues. My guess is God is just slapping Himself on the forehead saying to Himself, "You've got to be kidding?"
God, gave us all the ability to choose. With choice comes opinions. With opinions comes differences. With differences comes disagreements. With disagreements comes arguments With arguments comes conflict. With conflict comes division. With division comes a negative picture of the church. With the negative picture of the church comes lost lives that will never come to know Christ as Lord and Savior.
My oldest daughter painted her room pink. My youngest daughter painted her room purple. My wife would like to paint our room country blue. I prefer off-white. We all have different tastes, but we all live harmoniously in the same house, under the same roof.
God, I just want to honor you with my life. I want others to honor you with their lives. I want our church to honor you. Help me quell any negative or critical spirit within my own heart or my church's hearts.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Daily Reflectons on Col. 3:12-17 (Why All the Negativity?)
Why does the universal church have a "take it or leave it" kind of reputation today in the world? Why is there so much skepticism from believers and non-believers alike? Why the intolerance tag? Why do people like Rosie O'Donnell make statements like, "9.11 is the Christians fault. The Christians are the terrorists (not the Muslims who attacked the World Trade Towers and the Pentagon)?" Why has the church lost its influence in the US, Great Britain, Europe, the Middle East (where it all began)?
Okay, you could point to a few scandals in the US in recent years like the Catholic priests' molestation of young boys (and girls). Or you could bring up Ted Haggard, Jim and Tammy Baker, Jimmy Swaggert, Gordon McDonald among others' sexual and financial indiscretions. It could be Oral Roberts' 900 foot tall Jesus. There are plenty of other illustrations, including the dogmatism in the religious right movement and the militant actions of a few that bombed abortion clinics or murdered doctors who performed abortions.
There's no doubt that's bad press for the church. But perhaps the loss of favoritism and contagion lies someplace else. Maybe the church has ceased to be the church as described here in Colossians 3. What would happen if just a church, one single church would recapture the heart and image of the church portrayed by the Apostle Paul? What would the impact of such a church have on their neighborhood, community, region?
Did you catch the adjectives or character traits of such a church? Look again, clothed in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; forgiveness and encouragement the order of the day; love and harmony enveloping the culture; thankfulness reigning in each heart. And if that weren't enough, this church would allow God's Word to dwell in, flow from, permeate their hearts, minds, attitudes, actions and speech. Songs of praise, adoration, encouragement and exhortation would resonate from their midst. As one would come into contact with the individuals from this church on a daily basis, one would experience the hands, the arms, the embrace, the very presence and compassion of Jesus. Now that church would really make an impact!
God, I long for that church. I want my church to be that church. I want people to experience Christ and His Word dwelling in us. God, I know that starts with me. I know you and your Word has to dwell in me. Your compassion, love and mercy has to consume me and exude from my pores. God, I need your spirit to come alive in me. Help me be a catalyst for my church to be this church.
Okay, you could point to a few scandals in the US in recent years like the Catholic priests' molestation of young boys (and girls). Or you could bring up Ted Haggard, Jim and Tammy Baker, Jimmy Swaggert, Gordon McDonald among others' sexual and financial indiscretions. It could be Oral Roberts' 900 foot tall Jesus. There are plenty of other illustrations, including the dogmatism in the religious right movement and the militant actions of a few that bombed abortion clinics or murdered doctors who performed abortions.
There's no doubt that's bad press for the church. But perhaps the loss of favoritism and contagion lies someplace else. Maybe the church has ceased to be the church as described here in Colossians 3. What would happen if just a church, one single church would recapture the heart and image of the church portrayed by the Apostle Paul? What would the impact of such a church have on their neighborhood, community, region?
Did you catch the adjectives or character traits of such a church? Look again, clothed in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; forgiveness and encouragement the order of the day; love and harmony enveloping the culture; thankfulness reigning in each heart. And if that weren't enough, this church would allow God's Word to dwell in, flow from, permeate their hearts, minds, attitudes, actions and speech. Songs of praise, adoration, encouragement and exhortation would resonate from their midst. As one would come into contact with the individuals from this church on a daily basis, one would experience the hands, the arms, the embrace, the very presence and compassion of Jesus. Now that church would really make an impact!
God, I long for that church. I want my church to be that church. I want people to experience Christ and His Word dwelling in us. God, I know that starts with me. I know you and your Word has to dwell in me. Your compassion, love and mercy has to consume me and exude from my pores. God, I need your spirit to come alive in me. Help me be a catalyst for my church to be this church.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Daily Reflections on Lk. 18:9-14 (Comeuppance)
Judgments! We make them all the time. We peruse the food court at the mall before selecting a restaurant to suit our liking. We glance over the menu searching for the delectables to satisfy our taste buds. We gaze into our closet in anticipation of our day or activity before carefully choosing the perfect attire for our occasion. We size up the best cell phone, car, apartment or house to meet our need or budget or more likely, our eye. We flip through the playlist on our ipod, itunes, or cds pausing only when the right song fits our mood.
We live in a menu driven society. We like variety and choice. We push, pick, touch, grab, click our selection. When it no longer meets our needs or becomes boring, we select something else. Our judgments are based on what is appealing or satisfying to us, more specifically, to me. And our judgments aren’t limited to cloths, songs, movies, food or other “stuff.” We extend our judgment making into the realm of people, persons, classes, races, etc.
Since we’re good at making judgments based upon our tastes, likes, whims and standards, it’s easy to cast aspersions onto people. We, in effect, begin to place value and esteem upon others based on our opinion, method of expectation, or appearance. This week my youngest daughter is doing an experiment for her psychology class. She’s dressing as an older woman to determine how people treat her and to gain perspective as an elderly person. My guess is she’ll learn a lot about others and herself.
The hardest judgments to make are about ourselves. Sometimes we’re overly critical of ourselves and sometimes we’re totally blind to ourselves. Sometimes we pass off certain behaviors, thought processes, traits (good or bad) as just who we are. It’s tough to be impartial about us.
The only judgment that really counts is God’s judgment. It doesn’t really matter what or how I think of others or myself. What matters is what God thinks. He looks into our hearts and minds and casts His judgment. It’s easy for many of us to take the attitude of the first man in the parable Jesus tells in this text. We make our own judgment about ourselves in light of ourselves; to which God says, “Get ready for your comeuppance.” God is looking for hearts like the second man in the story who recognizes his (or her) own need for God’s grace and cries out to Him.
God, forgive me for my arrogance. I do make judgments of others’ value based on appearance, status, talents, wealth and giftedness. Help me to see myself through your eyes and help me to see others also through your eyes.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Daily Reflections on Gal. 5:13-21 (Friends and Choices)
At fourteen you think you've got it pretty much together, especially if you're a respected and recognized athlete at your high school. As a standout in football, track and wrestling, I had easy access to the popular crowd. Since I ran in prominent circles among my fellow students, it was only natural to be invited to various social gatherings thrown by my peers. The perks of such a position became quickly obvious.
As the parties intensified, my spirit became troubled. These were my friends, but I wasn't comfortable with the direction they were headed. I remember it coming to a head for me one night. I talked my mother into letting me leave early from church one Sunday evening to attend a gathering of my peers. Under protest she dropped me off and went back to church.
The party was well underway by the time I arrived. Parents upstairs. All the action downstairs in the basement. Not once did the parents make an appearance. There had been a few individuals who had brought alcohol to previous parties, but most abstained. But this one was different. The alcohol was already there and available to anyone.
My discomfort really grew. Since I was late in arriving, most of the partiers were well absorbed. The dancing gave way quickly to more personal interaction. Before long, couples lined the floor engaging in extra curricular activities. The majority were so intoxicated they had no idea who they were with or what they were doing. That evening I sat at a table with Liz Guichard, a friend, sipping cokes. We had a great conversation. She and I were the only ones refraining from imbibing.
Throughout that evening my mind kept reflecting back on my church friends I'd left. My heart mourned. I had left the joy of my Christian friends for the darkness and aloneness of a stupid party. The pictures were clearly framed for me between the world and the kingdom of God. I vowed that evening never to attend another party. If I were to be a light to my popular friends, I had to set myself apart and live by the spirit of God. I didn't abandon my friends nor they me, but no more parties. At my ten year high school reunion it was great to be able to share with and encourage my old classmates. God's light had become a brightness to those who were eager to hear of God's message of hope.
God, there is such a huge difference between your light and living in your spirit than the darkness and emptiness of the world. I love your light. It's refreshing and satisfying. Help me, through your spirit, stay out of the darkness and yet shine your light so others may find their way to you.
As the parties intensified, my spirit became troubled. These were my friends, but I wasn't comfortable with the direction they were headed. I remember it coming to a head for me one night. I talked my mother into letting me leave early from church one Sunday evening to attend a gathering of my peers. Under protest she dropped me off and went back to church.
The party was well underway by the time I arrived. Parents upstairs. All the action downstairs in the basement. Not once did the parents make an appearance. There had been a few individuals who had brought alcohol to previous parties, but most abstained. But this one was different. The alcohol was already there and available to anyone.
My discomfort really grew. Since I was late in arriving, most of the partiers were well absorbed. The dancing gave way quickly to more personal interaction. Before long, couples lined the floor engaging in extra curricular activities. The majority were so intoxicated they had no idea who they were with or what they were doing. That evening I sat at a table with Liz Guichard, a friend, sipping cokes. We had a great conversation. She and I were the only ones refraining from imbibing.
Throughout that evening my mind kept reflecting back on my church friends I'd left. My heart mourned. I had left the joy of my Christian friends for the darkness and aloneness of a stupid party. The pictures were clearly framed for me between the world and the kingdom of God. I vowed that evening never to attend another party. If I were to be a light to my popular friends, I had to set myself apart and live by the spirit of God. I didn't abandon my friends nor they me, but no more parties. At my ten year high school reunion it was great to be able to share with and encourage my old classmates. God's light had become a brightness to those who were eager to hear of God's message of hope.
God, there is such a huge difference between your light and living in your spirit than the darkness and emptiness of the world. I love your light. It's refreshing and satisfying. Help me, through your spirit, stay out of the darkness and yet shine your light so others may find their way to you.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Daily Reflections on Col. 2:9-12 (Presence)
In the year 2000, I got to visit Israel. It's a trip that really affected my life and moved me. Everywhere our group went was full of history. My imagination began to run wild. I pictured scene after scene of Bible stories playing out before me. I'll never forget watching two fisherman early one Sunday morning rinsing and checking their throw nets from a small boat just off shore on the Sea of Galilee. Immediately I could see Peter and Andrew finishing up from an empty night of fishing. The crowds were gathering along the shore to view the fishermen's catch.
As I walked the paths Jesus walked, visited the villages Jesus visited, prayed in the garden where Jesus prayed, I, and the others with me, were seized with the presence of Jesus. When we gathered in the upper room, it was as if Jesus was passing the broken bread and cup to me. It was as if I could have reached out and touched Him. My envy for those who experienced the physical presence of Jesus overwhelmed me. How great it would have been to have touched, been touched or felt the embrace of Jesus. God in the the flesh. Wow. That would have been awesome.
But just as amazing are the words of the Apostle Paul in these verses. Jesus was the fullness of God in bodily form. He also says that we who have entered into a faith relationship with God through Jesus, have the same fullness of Christ in us. The image Paul paints is of a spiritual operation and/or transformation that empties, removes a darkness or a cancer within our heart and being and replaces it with all the fullness of Christ. As we are lowered into the grave of baptismal waters, God buries our old self there. We're dead; to sin that is. As we are raised from our watery tomb, the freshness of God fills us. In our first breath we draw in the spirit of God. We're alive, this time in Him. New life. New power. New start. I'm not just living in Christ. Christ is now in me.
God, sometimes I forget that I'm not just in your family, but you actually live in me in all your fullness. I have a habit of mentally coming to visit your family, share in Sunday dinner and then go my own way. Sometimes I totally ignore that you're in me, your presence, your being is in me. Lord, I know that I'm spiritually schizophrenic. The reality is that you're with me wherever I am because you're not just next to me, you're inside me. Awaken my spirit to acknowledge that I'm alive in you and you're alive in me.
As I walked the paths Jesus walked, visited the villages Jesus visited, prayed in the garden where Jesus prayed, I, and the others with me, were seized with the presence of Jesus. When we gathered in the upper room, it was as if Jesus was passing the broken bread and cup to me. It was as if I could have reached out and touched Him. My envy for those who experienced the physical presence of Jesus overwhelmed me. How great it would have been to have touched, been touched or felt the embrace of Jesus. God in the the flesh. Wow. That would have been awesome.
But just as amazing are the words of the Apostle Paul in these verses. Jesus was the fullness of God in bodily form. He also says that we who have entered into a faith relationship with God through Jesus, have the same fullness of Christ in us. The image Paul paints is of a spiritual operation and/or transformation that empties, removes a darkness or a cancer within our heart and being and replaces it with all the fullness of Christ. As we are lowered into the grave of baptismal waters, God buries our old self there. We're dead; to sin that is. As we are raised from our watery tomb, the freshness of God fills us. In our first breath we draw in the spirit of God. We're alive, this time in Him. New life. New power. New start. I'm not just living in Christ. Christ is now in me.
God, sometimes I forget that I'm not just in your family, but you actually live in me in all your fullness. I have a habit of mentally coming to visit your family, share in Sunday dinner and then go my own way. Sometimes I totally ignore that you're in me, your presence, your being is in me. Lord, I know that I'm spiritually schizophrenic. The reality is that you're with me wherever I am because you're not just next to me, you're inside me. Awaken my spirit to acknowledge that I'm alive in you and you're alive in me.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Daily Reflections on Esther 4:1-5:8 (What's My Value?)
Have you ever wondered why you're here on this planet at this time in history? Have you ever wondered what difference your life makes? Have you ever wondered what your value to the world or mankind was? Have you ever wondered why you were born into your family or into your community? Have you ever wondered why you are where you are?
In these chapters of Esther, Mordecai challenges Esther with those famous words, "Who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" Those words have stayed with me since I learned them as a kid. It was clear that all the things in my life; my decisions (good and bad), my circumstances, my experiences, my talents, my choices, shape me and bring me to where I am today. As I've sought to pursue God and His will, He has prepared me for the moment I'm currently facing.
God brings us to those points, but I must choose to be used. I have to act. I have to be alert and aware to what God wants me to do in the moment. My position, my presence brings me to a point of ministry that only I can do in that moment. I'm not a mindless robot that does whatever it's told. I'm a vessel, an instrument that longs to be used or played by God.
Surrendering or acting in faith is the hard part. It struck me, as I read through these chapters again, that Esther's initial response to the challenge at hand to save her people was to go before God in a season of prayer and fasting seeking His wisdom and involvement. She didn't act alone. She got others to join her before she acted. Then, at risk to her own life, she went before the king without invitation, which was punishable by death. God's hand was on her. Her act of faith saved a nation.
Extending oneself in ministry always requires risk and potential personal sacrifice. It may not cost you your life, but it costs something. It's really risk and reward. You risk something, even if it's just failure, when you act in God's behalf? But the rewards are eternal. Maybe the little thing you do for God may not seem like much. It's impossible sometimes to see the full impact this side of heaven.
God, it's hard to see all the elements of my life coming together for a particular ministry at a particular time. Yet, I know you see the big picture. I know wherever I'm here for such a time as this.
In these chapters of Esther, Mordecai challenges Esther with those famous words, "Who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" Those words have stayed with me since I learned them as a kid. It was clear that all the things in my life; my decisions (good and bad), my circumstances, my experiences, my talents, my choices, shape me and bring me to where I am today. As I've sought to pursue God and His will, He has prepared me for the moment I'm currently facing.
God brings us to those points, but I must choose to be used. I have to act. I have to be alert and aware to what God wants me to do in the moment. My position, my presence brings me to a point of ministry that only I can do in that moment. I'm not a mindless robot that does whatever it's told. I'm a vessel, an instrument that longs to be used or played by God.
Surrendering or acting in faith is the hard part. It struck me, as I read through these chapters again, that Esther's initial response to the challenge at hand to save her people was to go before God in a season of prayer and fasting seeking His wisdom and involvement. She didn't act alone. She got others to join her before she acted. Then, at risk to her own life, she went before the king without invitation, which was punishable by death. God's hand was on her. Her act of faith saved a nation.
Extending oneself in ministry always requires risk and potential personal sacrifice. It may not cost you your life, but it costs something. It's really risk and reward. You risk something, even if it's just failure, when you act in God's behalf? But the rewards are eternal. Maybe the little thing you do for God may not seem like much. It's impossible sometimes to see the full impact this side of heaven.
God, it's hard to see all the elements of my life coming together for a particular ministry at a particular time. Yet, I know you see the big picture. I know wherever I'm here for such a time as this.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Daily Reflections on Esther 2:19-23 (Back Stabbing)
Ever been stabbed in the back by people you trusted? Not a great feeling. I've lamented with pastoral friends and others about the amount of time and energy invested with people caring for them, comforting them only to have them turn against you and make your life a living hell. Unfortunately, it happens a lot in ministry.
But it happens a lot in life. When I was in youth ministry, it seemed like I dealt with one teen girl stabbing another teen girl in the back on a daily basis. I learned that there is actually an art to back stabbing another teen girl. What's funny is that the stabber always thinks the stabbee had it coming, so there's no remorse.
Back stabbing isn't just a teenage girl phase. It's a part of life in a selfish culture. It's a form of vengeance. We've declared ourselves judge, jury, and executioner. We don't get mad, we get even or worse. It's a form of getting ahead or placing ourselves in a more enviable position with peers, co-workers, or bosses. But it is still selfishness, doing whatever to get what we want.
But what if you're not the stabber or the stabbee, but you know the stabbing is about to take place? That's the position Esther was in as you read this passage. What do you do? You could sit back and watch the deed played out just staying out of it. You could confront the potential stabber which could draw a flesh wound and make you an enemy. You could warn the potential stabbee it was coming and risk ostracization by everyone. Tough spot.
If you knew it was coming, I'd want to know. If I could stop a blood bath, I'd try. If I was about to hurt someone in a surprise attack, I would want someone to stop me. Back stabbing is a nasty sport that ruins lives, friendships, and reputations.
It has to stop among God's people. It's embarrassing to the church and Christianity. It's destroying churches, people, and hurting the cause of Christ. The Bible says to mark those who cause division. Back stabbers are division causers and should be treated as such. Cancer is not allowed to stay in the body. It's either cut out or irradiated. Not pleasant, but necessary for the body to survive.
God, like Esther, I want be on the King's side. I want to do whatever benefits your Kingdom. I want to protect the King and His Kingdom. Give me wisdom and boldness and grace when I need it to stand up for you.
But it happens a lot in life. When I was in youth ministry, it seemed like I dealt with one teen girl stabbing another teen girl in the back on a daily basis. I learned that there is actually an art to back stabbing another teen girl. What's funny is that the stabber always thinks the stabbee had it coming, so there's no remorse.
Back stabbing isn't just a teenage girl phase. It's a part of life in a selfish culture. It's a form of vengeance. We've declared ourselves judge, jury, and executioner. We don't get mad, we get even or worse. It's a form of getting ahead or placing ourselves in a more enviable position with peers, co-workers, or bosses. But it is still selfishness, doing whatever to get what we want.
But what if you're not the stabber or the stabbee, but you know the stabbing is about to take place? That's the position Esther was in as you read this passage. What do you do? You could sit back and watch the deed played out just staying out of it. You could confront the potential stabber which could draw a flesh wound and make you an enemy. You could warn the potential stabbee it was coming and risk ostracization by everyone. Tough spot.
If you knew it was coming, I'd want to know. If I could stop a blood bath, I'd try. If I was about to hurt someone in a surprise attack, I would want someone to stop me. Back stabbing is a nasty sport that ruins lives, friendships, and reputations.
It has to stop among God's people. It's embarrassing to the church and Christianity. It's destroying churches, people, and hurting the cause of Christ. The Bible says to mark those who cause division. Back stabbers are division causers and should be treated as such. Cancer is not allowed to stay in the body. It's either cut out or irradiated. Not pleasant, but necessary for the body to survive.
God, like Esther, I want be on the King's side. I want to do whatever benefits your Kingdom. I want to protect the King and His Kingdom. Give me wisdom and boldness and grace when I need it to stand up for you.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Daily Reflections on Esther 2:9-18 (Beauty or a Beast)
Beauty is in the eye of the holder. And everyone who beheld Esther were taken by her beauty. It's been said that beauty is only skin deep. However, that evidently wasn't true with Esther. She apparently radiated with both an inner and an exterior beauty. When it came time to pick a new queen from among the virgins of the king's harem, she out shined them all.
What's really amazing is that Esther goes from Jewish slave girl and orphan to Queen of Babylon. Talk about rags to riches. It's an amazing story. But her rise to queen of the most powerful nation of her day, wasn't an accident or a shrewd political maneuver. It happened by the hand of God which was on her life.
What made Esther so beautiful? Esther's radiance came from within. Her love for God and her obedient relationship with Him shaped her heart, mind, and spirit. Her character, her compassion, her beauty had developed as her faith grew. Her desperate situation as a child had caused her to rely on God. No doubt her cousin, Mordecai, helped to point her to God and His truths. He taught her well. And just like Jesus, Esther grew in wisdom and physical appearance and in favor with God and man.
Because of her faithful obedience and trust in God, He placed her in a position to, in effect, save not only the Jews, but all mankind. Had the Jews been destroyed in her day, Jesus would not have come into the world. She becomes even more radiant to us today, who have never seen her, than to those who gazed upon her beauty.
God, I've always been amazed at Esther's rise to prominence. I've been amazed that even the impossible situation from which she came, she shined with your Shekinah glory. I've been amazed that you ended up offering salvation to the world through the faithful, courageous acts of a slave girl who never lost sight of you. Lord, if you can use a young slave girl with such a tragic background to change the world and affect all of mankind, surely you can use me. I give you my gifts, talents, resources, heart and mind. For all things are possible through you. Here I am. I'm yours, Lord.
What's really amazing is that Esther goes from Jewish slave girl and orphan to Queen of Babylon. Talk about rags to riches. It's an amazing story. But her rise to queen of the most powerful nation of her day, wasn't an accident or a shrewd political maneuver. It happened by the hand of God which was on her life.
What made Esther so beautiful? Esther's radiance came from within. Her love for God and her obedient relationship with Him shaped her heart, mind, and spirit. Her character, her compassion, her beauty had developed as her faith grew. Her desperate situation as a child had caused her to rely on God. No doubt her cousin, Mordecai, helped to point her to God and His truths. He taught her well. And just like Jesus, Esther grew in wisdom and physical appearance and in favor with God and man.
Because of her faithful obedience and trust in God, He placed her in a position to, in effect, save not only the Jews, but all mankind. Had the Jews been destroyed in her day, Jesus would not have come into the world. She becomes even more radiant to us today, who have never seen her, than to those who gazed upon her beauty.
God, I've always been amazed at Esther's rise to prominence. I've been amazed that even the impossible situation from which she came, she shined with your Shekinah glory. I've been amazed that you ended up offering salvation to the world through the faithful, courageous acts of a slave girl who never lost sight of you. Lord, if you can use a young slave girl with such a tragic background to change the world and affect all of mankind, surely you can use me. I give you my gifts, talents, resources, heart and mind. For all things are possible through you. Here I am. I'm yours, Lord.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Daily Reflections on Esther 2:5-8 (Good Fathers, Bad Fathers)
Can you really understand God as Father if you don't have a loving father in your life? My friend, Daniel, and I were just discussing the other day the challenge of portraying the image of a caring, loving father in regards to God to someone whose father abandoned or abused or neglected them. How do you explain the steadfastness of a heavenly father to one whose earthly father walked out, disappeared because of divorce or even passed away tragically?
Some studies have shown that young ladies who grow up without a father in their life have a tendency to become promiscuous as they search for love. Some studies suggest that a young lady draws her self image or self esteem from her father, for good or bad. Other studies show that young men who feel rejected by their fathers have a tendency to develop greater effeminate characteristics or are more easily drawn into the world of homosexuality. They struggle with their own role as a young man and often shun their responsibilities.
Esther, as we see in this passage, grew up in an extremely difficult situation. Her parents either died or were sold into slavery when she was just a young child. She was raised in captivity in a foreign land as a virtual servant or a slave's existence. Yet, she was lucky. Her cousin adopted her and raised her as his own daughter.
If anyone had the right to be bitter, to hate the world and life, to feel abandoned, rejected, hopeless or helpless, it was Esther. If anyone had the right to distrust God as Father, she had it. Not a pleasant life or background to no fault of her own. But somehow she got past all of that and learned to love and trust God. She didn't let her experience of abandonment prevent her from experiencing a loving heavenly father.
God, there's a lot of hurt in this world. There are tons of young men and women, mature men and women, who have been neglected, abused, abandoned, belittled by their fathers. Some have never known what it's like to crawl up in their daddy's lap or to feel the loving embrace of a father's strong arms. Lord, I pray that, like Esther, people can put aside those rotten circumstances, those feelings of abandonment, rejection, neglect, distrust and discover your genuine, compassionate, love, power, protection and grace. Use me, God. Give me wisdom on how to portray your true nature.
Some studies have shown that young ladies who grow up without a father in their life have a tendency to become promiscuous as they search for love. Some studies suggest that a young lady draws her self image or self esteem from her father, for good or bad. Other studies show that young men who feel rejected by their fathers have a tendency to develop greater effeminate characteristics or are more easily drawn into the world of homosexuality. They struggle with their own role as a young man and often shun their responsibilities.
Esther, as we see in this passage, grew up in an extremely difficult situation. Her parents either died or were sold into slavery when she was just a young child. She was raised in captivity in a foreign land as a virtual servant or a slave's existence. Yet, she was lucky. Her cousin adopted her and raised her as his own daughter.
If anyone had the right to be bitter, to hate the world and life, to feel abandoned, rejected, hopeless or helpless, it was Esther. If anyone had the right to distrust God as Father, she had it. Not a pleasant life or background to no fault of her own. But somehow she got past all of that and learned to love and trust God. She didn't let her experience of abandonment prevent her from experiencing a loving heavenly father.
God, there's a lot of hurt in this world. There are tons of young men and women, mature men and women, who have been neglected, abused, abandoned, belittled by their fathers. Some have never known what it's like to crawl up in their daddy's lap or to feel the loving embrace of a father's strong arms. Lord, I pray that, like Esther, people can put aside those rotten circumstances, those feelings of abandonment, rejection, neglect, distrust and discover your genuine, compassionate, love, power, protection and grace. Use me, God. Give me wisdom on how to portray your true nature.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Daily Reflections on Ezek. 18:21-32 (Is God Fair?)
Grace! I'm not talking about a blue eyed blond. I'm talking about the mercy and forgiveness God offers. Having grown up with the mentality that I had to earn God's forgiveness and mercy through my actions and behavior, the concept of grace was a welcome relief. No matter how hard I tried I still found myself doing the very things I didn't want to do. It haunted me until I discovered the Apostle Paul went through the same struggles. I could identify with Paul's internal battle in Romans 7. And I took comfort that I was not alone.
However, it was years later that the full implication of Romans 8 became clear to me and I finally discovered grace as God intended it. A seminary professor I once had posed this question to our class, "Is God fair?" It caused a lot of debate. Many defended God's honor in their minds by professing His fairness, attempting to explain away the dichotomy of God's actions throughout the scripture as His sovereignty.
But if you look closely at this passage in Ezekiel, the question of fairness becomes a bit more complicated. Truth is, God isn't fair. Furthermore, I don't want Him to be fair. I'd rather have grace instead of fairness. 2 Corinthians 5 says that God made Jesus, who never sinned to be sin in our behalf so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. What that simply means is that Jesus, who never sinned, who was perfect, had to pay the penalty for my sin and everyone else's sin. Does that seem fair to you? Doesn't to me. Jesus, who deserved life, got death. And I, and everyone else for that matter, who sin, got life. That's grace.
Today's text simply says that when we, who screwed up our life and past come to God with a sorrowful heart and seek Him, God offers forgiveness and eternal life. It doesn't matter what I've done or you've done in our past, God wipes our slate clean. He expunges our record of sin. He eliminates our debt. He reformats our hard drive. And He welcomes our desire to build a relationship with Him. That's grace. I can move forward with my life freed from my guilt, all because of what Jesus did for me on the the cross and through His resurrection. I'm a new person. I get a new life. Not just turn over a new leaf. I get a new life!
God, I'm sure glad your not fair. Because if you were fair I get the punishment that I deserve. I'm glad you offer grace. Thanks for providing me with a way of escape from myself and my past and my tendencies. Thanks not only for my forgiveness, thanks also for giving me your Holy Spirit to live within me to help me live by your truths and do the things I want to do and you want me to do. You're an awesome God.
However, it was years later that the full implication of Romans 8 became clear to me and I finally discovered grace as God intended it. A seminary professor I once had posed this question to our class, "Is God fair?" It caused a lot of debate. Many defended God's honor in their minds by professing His fairness, attempting to explain away the dichotomy of God's actions throughout the scripture as His sovereignty.
But if you look closely at this passage in Ezekiel, the question of fairness becomes a bit more complicated. Truth is, God isn't fair. Furthermore, I don't want Him to be fair. I'd rather have grace instead of fairness. 2 Corinthians 5 says that God made Jesus, who never sinned to be sin in our behalf so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. What that simply means is that Jesus, who never sinned, who was perfect, had to pay the penalty for my sin and everyone else's sin. Does that seem fair to you? Doesn't to me. Jesus, who deserved life, got death. And I, and everyone else for that matter, who sin, got life. That's grace.
Today's text simply says that when we, who screwed up our life and past come to God with a sorrowful heart and seek Him, God offers forgiveness and eternal life. It doesn't matter what I've done or you've done in our past, God wipes our slate clean. He expunges our record of sin. He eliminates our debt. He reformats our hard drive. And He welcomes our desire to build a relationship with Him. That's grace. I can move forward with my life freed from my guilt, all because of what Jesus did for me on the the cross and through His resurrection. I'm a new person. I get a new life. Not just turn over a new leaf. I get a new life!
God, I'm sure glad your not fair. Because if you were fair I get the punishment that I deserve. I'm glad you offer grace. Thanks for providing me with a way of escape from myself and my past and my tendencies. Thanks not only for my forgiveness, thanks also for giving me your Holy Spirit to live within me to help me live by your truths and do the things I want to do and you want me to do. You're an awesome God.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Daily Reflections on Ezek. 20:1-5; Lk. 23:8-9 (Does God Ever Quit Listening to Us?)
Does God ever close His ears? Does He ever turn us off or tune us out? Does God ever refuse to answer His phone? Does He just let it go to voice mail? Apparently the answer is "yes." In these passages God simply shuts off the inquirers. He's not listening and He's not answering. He maintains radio silence.
If God already knows our thoughts before we ever say them, is it even possible for God not to hear our cries or prayers or questions? It's not that he can't hear them or doesn't know what we're thinking or asking. He simply refuses to engage us. The question is "why?" Why would God refuse not to engage or interact with us?
In the case of Herod in Luke 23, Jesus ignores all Herod's questions because of his motives. Herod really isn't interested in knowing God on a personal level. He's interested in debating, matching wits, coercing Jesus into performing a miracle or giving him a show of His power. Jesus simply ignored Herod's insulate attitude and behavior.
In the Ezekiel passage, God turns His back and refuses to converse with the Jewish leaders because of their rejection of Him in the past. Since they broke their promise to God, God simply said, "You don't want me to be your God, then fine, you're on your own." Since they refused to listen and obey when God revealed Himself in the past, He wasn't going to humor them or play games with them. Ezekiel went on to lay it out for them.
It's interesting to me how many people come looking for God only when they are in the deepest of trouble or they are hoping to muse their curiosity. They choose to live however they want, ignore God, His truths and then want Him to get them out of a jam. They want Him to remove the consequences of their own actions. They virtually ignore Him (even though they might go to church regularly) by their actions and behavior and then wonder why God won't act, why He remains silent. Is it really that hard to figure out?
God, my heart aches when I see the broken lives of these who have ignored you and your word. I know you love them. I know your heart aches as well. Lord, help me to proclaim your word and truths in such a way that men and women can grasp it, be drawn to it, and apply it obediently in their lives. Help me be faithful in all aspects of my life to you through your spirit.
If God already knows our thoughts before we ever say them, is it even possible for God not to hear our cries or prayers or questions? It's not that he can't hear them or doesn't know what we're thinking or asking. He simply refuses to engage us. The question is "why?" Why would God refuse not to engage or interact with us?
In the case of Herod in Luke 23, Jesus ignores all Herod's questions because of his motives. Herod really isn't interested in knowing God on a personal level. He's interested in debating, matching wits, coercing Jesus into performing a miracle or giving him a show of His power. Jesus simply ignored Herod's insulate attitude and behavior.
In the Ezekiel passage, God turns His back and refuses to converse with the Jewish leaders because of their rejection of Him in the past. Since they broke their promise to God, God simply said, "You don't want me to be your God, then fine, you're on your own." Since they refused to listen and obey when God revealed Himself in the past, He wasn't going to humor them or play games with them. Ezekiel went on to lay it out for them.
It's interesting to me how many people come looking for God only when they are in the deepest of trouble or they are hoping to muse their curiosity. They choose to live however they want, ignore God, His truths and then want Him to get them out of a jam. They want Him to remove the consequences of their own actions. They virtually ignore Him (even though they might go to church regularly) by their actions and behavior and then wonder why God won't act, why He remains silent. Is it really that hard to figure out?
God, my heart aches when I see the broken lives of these who have ignored you and your word. I know you love them. I know your heart aches as well. Lord, help me to proclaim your word and truths in such a way that men and women can grasp it, be drawn to it, and apply it obediently in their lives. Help me be faithful in all aspects of my life to you through your spirit.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Daily Reflections on Ezek. 1:1-9, 25-28 (What Does God Look Like?)
Star Trek and William Shatner started is all. They opened the door for all the recent SciFi movies, shows, and merchandising. Star Wars really boosted the trend. Now "beaming" or dismantling particle and reassembling them in a distant place seems to be the norm in all of today's SciFi genres. The bizarre creatures that first were seen in Star Trek episodes have evolved through subsequent series, sequels, and imaginative take offs.
ET, Yoda, Clingons, Asgard and others dominate the big and small screens. Various creatures of unique design always cause alarm when first encountered. Even before the latest trend in movie characters, men from outer space we're almost always depicted in shiny attire. I'd say silver suits but back then most everything was done in black and white, so shiny equaled silver.
The image painted of God's personage in the opening lines of Ezekiel's testimony is startling and amazing at the same time. Trying to place myself into that scene, I'm not sure whether I'd been drawn in closer in curiosity or want to look away or maybe even run away. Since no one has ever seen God, Ezekiel's vision no doubt caused him to be awestruck.
But how do you describe God? If you painted a picture of God and the angels around the throne of God, how would you capture his awesome majesty and glory? How would you recount his appearance? To what or whom would you compare God? His nature and His throne would be nothing like anyone had ever experienced. Yet, Ezekiel takes a stab as he recounts his vision. Even in a day in which we're used to strange and different characters, no one could really describe the true brilliance and glory of God.
God, if I could see you as you are, I doubt that I could ever describe you. And since you are spirit and infinite, there is no way to simplify your nature and physical state. Forgive me for trying to put you in my image box. Your grandeur is beyond my comprehension.
ET, Yoda, Clingons, Asgard and others dominate the big and small screens. Various creatures of unique design always cause alarm when first encountered. Even before the latest trend in movie characters, men from outer space we're almost always depicted in shiny attire. I'd say silver suits but back then most everything was done in black and white, so shiny equaled silver.
The image painted of God's personage in the opening lines of Ezekiel's testimony is startling and amazing at the same time. Trying to place myself into that scene, I'm not sure whether I'd been drawn in closer in curiosity or want to look away or maybe even run away. Since no one has ever seen God, Ezekiel's vision no doubt caused him to be awestruck.
But how do you describe God? If you painted a picture of God and the angels around the throne of God, how would you capture his awesome majesty and glory? How would you recount his appearance? To what or whom would you compare God? His nature and His throne would be nothing like anyone had ever experienced. Yet, Ezekiel takes a stab as he recounts his vision. Even in a day in which we're used to strange and different characters, no one could really describe the true brilliance and glory of God.
God, if I could see you as you are, I doubt that I could ever describe you. And since you are spirit and infinite, there is no way to simplify your nature and physical state. Forgive me for trying to put you in my image box. Your grandeur is beyond my comprehension.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Daily Reflections on 1 Cor. 13:4-7 (Considering Epitaphs)
I've read these verses hundreds of times at weddings. It's a natural place to talk about love and relationships. But recently God lead me to use this passage at quite an unusual place. In fact, I've never read it in this setting before. It had never occurred to me to even be appropriate. But just a few days ago, I cracked open the pages of my Bible to read these verses at a memorial service for a lady who had dedicated her whole life to loving her husband, son, daughter-in-law, sister, family, friends, and neighbors. The words jumped off the page illuminating her life.
I'd never considered that these be words that would read over me at my passing. I've always thought it'd be things like, "He ran his race, he finished his course, he fought his good fight, he kept the faith," kind of stuff. Or maybe a little Joshua and Caleb, seize the day. Or possibly, "He fulfilled his purpose in his generation."
The more I think about it, it makes me really wonder what someone would say about me. I wonder if anyone would even think about this scripture on love to describe my life. Could they say my life was all about love. Would patience and and kindness be used in my eulogy? Would people say things like, "he wasn't rude or boastful or proud or jealous or envious or selfish?" Would they picture me as void of anger and grudges? Could it be said I was an encourager and protector and always optimistic about people? That I didn't give up on people and was always there?
The question really is, "Would love describe my life?" When I look at Jesus, His love is the first thing I see. If I want to be like Jesus, then I need God's Spirit to develop my love quotient, because as I reflect upon my own character and behavior, love as the Apostle Paul describes here is severely lacking in my life.
God, there's a lot of things I'd like to be remembered for in my life. However, I confess to you, being a model of your love as depicted by Paul hasn't been one of those priority goals. When I look at you, Lord, love is your predominant characteristic. I've memorized as a child that you loved the world so much that you sent your one and only son to restore our broken relationship. I do want to be like Jesus. God, help me exude your love to others. I want people to simply say I loved you with all my being and l loved others.
I'd never considered that these be words that would read over me at my passing. I've always thought it'd be things like, "He ran his race, he finished his course, he fought his good fight, he kept the faith," kind of stuff. Or maybe a little Joshua and Caleb, seize the day. Or possibly, "He fulfilled his purpose in his generation."
The more I think about it, it makes me really wonder what someone would say about me. I wonder if anyone would even think about this scripture on love to describe my life. Could they say my life was all about love. Would patience and and kindness be used in my eulogy? Would people say things like, "he wasn't rude or boastful or proud or jealous or envious or selfish?" Would they picture me as void of anger and grudges? Could it be said I was an encourager and protector and always optimistic about people? That I didn't give up on people and was always there?
The question really is, "Would love describe my life?" When I look at Jesus, His love is the first thing I see. If I want to be like Jesus, then I need God's Spirit to develop my love quotient, because as I reflect upon my own character and behavior, love as the Apostle Paul describes here is severely lacking in my life.
God, there's a lot of things I'd like to be remembered for in my life. However, I confess to you, being a model of your love as depicted by Paul hasn't been one of those priority goals. When I look at you, Lord, love is your predominant characteristic. I've memorized as a child that you loved the world so much that you sent your one and only son to restore our broken relationship. I do want to be like Jesus. God, help me exude your love to others. I want people to simply say I loved you with all my being and l loved others.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Daily Reflections on Jn. 21:20-23 (Is Life Fair?)
Life is not fair! Why is it that some people have all the luck or get all the breaks. Why is it that some of us never catch a break? We're the person on Wheel of Fortune who knows the puzzle answer but keep spinning "lose a turn" or "bankrupt." We never get a chance so we go home empty handed.
It really irks me when stars like Britney Spears or Lindsay Lohan get all the breaks, have more money, fame, opportunities than they know what to do with and just publicly trash their own life. It really irks me when multimillionaires win the Power Ball or Lotto Jackpot. Why do some guys get all the girls and some girls get all the guys?
When my little brother came home from the Jr. High State Track Meet with a trophy for winning the fifty yard dash. I was excited for him. But when I found out his winning time, I was incensed. At the same meet and track two years prior when I competed, his state winning time would not have gotten him past the quarter finals. I was eliminated in the semis with a time four tenths of second faster. That's not fair! The year I ran, Michael Cole set records for both the 50 and 100 yard dashes. My brother never did run as fast as I did but he came away with state titles. I got cheated.
Truth is life isn't fair. The Bible says to whom much is given, much is expected. In the parable of the talents, every servant gets talents, but the amounts differ. The greater the talent, the greater the return the master expected when he returned. God gives us all different gifts, talents, opportunities. With those gifts comes different responsibilities. All are equally significant in God's eyes. Our response to our calling is all God is concerned about.
God, forgive my sulking. I look at the blessings and positions and accomplishments of others and sometimes I get jealous. Forgive my selfish, greedy attitude. I recognize I want these things for me. Thanks for the opportunities you have given to me. Thanks for my gifts, talents, and abilities and resources. Help me to use them wisely for your glory.
It really irks me when stars like Britney Spears or Lindsay Lohan get all the breaks, have more money, fame, opportunities than they know what to do with and just publicly trash their own life. It really irks me when multimillionaires win the Power Ball or Lotto Jackpot. Why do some guys get all the girls and some girls get all the guys?
When my little brother came home from the Jr. High State Track Meet with a trophy for winning the fifty yard dash. I was excited for him. But when I found out his winning time, I was incensed. At the same meet and track two years prior when I competed, his state winning time would not have gotten him past the quarter finals. I was eliminated in the semis with a time four tenths of second faster. That's not fair! The year I ran, Michael Cole set records for both the 50 and 100 yard dashes. My brother never did run as fast as I did but he came away with state titles. I got cheated.
Truth is life isn't fair. The Bible says to whom much is given, much is expected. In the parable of the talents, every servant gets talents, but the amounts differ. The greater the talent, the greater the return the master expected when he returned. God gives us all different gifts, talents, opportunities. With those gifts comes different responsibilities. All are equally significant in God's eyes. Our response to our calling is all God is concerned about.
God, forgive my sulking. I look at the blessings and positions and accomplishments of others and sometimes I get jealous. Forgive my selfish, greedy attitude. I recognize I want these things for me. Thanks for the opportunities you have given to me. Thanks for my gifts, talents, and abilities and resources. Help me to use them wisely for your glory.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Daily Reflections on Jn. 21:18-19 (Confusion)
It's hard for me to watch my father's health decline. This once virulent man has been reduced to a frail and feeble state. His once contemplative mind is now filled with confusion. His curious and energetic spirit lays dormant within him. I often think about this passage when I reflect on his condition. The leader, pastor, thinker, innovator now has to be lead everywhere and instructed about virtually everything.
I pray for my mother frequently. She is his sole caregiver. He's become extremely dependent upon her. She guides him, directs him, encourages him, leads him throughout each day. He's very uncomfortable if she is not nearby. He trusts her implicitly. His only question, "Where are we going?" It's repeated many times in the course of even the smallest journey or outing.
That dependency has developed from nearly sixty years of marriage and ministry together. For Him, my mother is his life. Whatever, whenever, he follows her lead. If he needs something or feels uncomfortable he cries out for her. Their relationship empowers his confidence, security and well-being.
As sad as it is for me to watch this spectacle with overwhelming vulnerability, I've learned a little about faith and following Jesus. When you face incredibly difficult times, if you haven't developed an intimacy with God through Jesus Christ, you're totally lost. Learning to follow Jesus isn't always easy. But if we don't learn it, what is it going to be like in the real rough times?
For most of us, there will come a day when we'll cry out for someone to lead us. It's a frightening and confusing place to be. Knowing Jesus on a deep personal level will make a difference when we're there. That's why it's so important to develop the relationship, the trust, the dependence before we get there.
God, these past several months for me have been challenging. I've needed and still need you to take me by the arm and lead me step by step. I feel uneasy when I don't sense your presence or hear your voice. I'm placing trust completely in you. Lead me in your path. Take me the direction you want me to go. I'll gladly follow you.
I pray for my mother frequently. She is his sole caregiver. He's become extremely dependent upon her. She guides him, directs him, encourages him, leads him throughout each day. He's very uncomfortable if she is not nearby. He trusts her implicitly. His only question, "Where are we going?" It's repeated many times in the course of even the smallest journey or outing.
That dependency has developed from nearly sixty years of marriage and ministry together. For Him, my mother is his life. Whatever, whenever, he follows her lead. If he needs something or feels uncomfortable he cries out for her. Their relationship empowers his confidence, security and well-being.
As sad as it is for me to watch this spectacle with overwhelming vulnerability, I've learned a little about faith and following Jesus. When you face incredibly difficult times, if you haven't developed an intimacy with God through Jesus Christ, you're totally lost. Learning to follow Jesus isn't always easy. But if we don't learn it, what is it going to be like in the real rough times?
For most of us, there will come a day when we'll cry out for someone to lead us. It's a frightening and confusing place to be. Knowing Jesus on a deep personal level will make a difference when we're there. That's why it's so important to develop the relationship, the trust, the dependence before we get there.
God, these past several months for me have been challenging. I've needed and still need you to take me by the arm and lead me step by step. I feel uneasy when I don't sense your presence or hear your voice. I'm placing trust completely in you. Lead me in your path. Take me the direction you want me to go. I'll gladly follow you.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Daily Reflections on Lk. 22:31-38 (It's Time to Buy a Sword)
A sword? I thought Jesus was all about love, peace, passivity. What's the deal with the sword? Why did He tell His disciples to sell their cloaks and buy one if they didn't have one. It's kind of hard to visualize Jesus carrying a sword. Yet when Jesus asked about them having a sword, the twelve produced two. And apparently Peter was one of the two toting one because he pulled it and took a swipe when they came to arrest Jesus. It wouldn't surprise me if Simon, the Zealot was the other.
So what's Jesus saying here in this text? Palestine was a dangerous place with all the political tensions. Was Jesus advocating being part of an insurrection against Rome or Herod or even the Temple guard? Was He implying with His impending death that there would be others coming after them? What's the deal?
Jesus isn't promoting violence or aggression. He isn't even talking about the disciples defending themselves against an angry mob. Jesus is preparing them for the spiritual battle ahead, about which His disciples hadn't a clue. As the Apostle Paul reminds us, our battle isn't against rulers and principalities of this world, flesh and blood. The spiritual battle we're in is fought on a different plane.
When I was playing football, back in the leather helmet days (just kidding), our coach would have us practice hard all week. Usually we were in full pads, but not always. Practice was often intense, but nothing like the competition of the game. Before each game we got the pep talk, where our coach would "pysche us up." He was getting us ready for the physical encounter of the game. Virtually, that's what Jesus was doing here. The mission of God was now going to be in their hands.
The image of Jesus' followers with swords may seem contradictory at first, yet it's an image the Bible clearly paints. Ephesians talks about taking up the sword of the Spirit as part of the armor of God. Hebrews refers the word of God as sharper than a two edge sword. Revelation paints an image of Jesus' return riding a white horse wielding a sharp sword with fire in His eyes. A true symbol of conquering victory.
I told our congregation this past Sunday that I was tired of the blond hair, blue eyed, effeminate image everyone paints of Jesus. It doesn't really appeal to me or invite me. I want see Jesus painted more like the image of Mel Gibson in Braveheart, riding around on His white horse rallying the troops. Now that could get me pumped up, ready for the game of life.
God, I sometimes forget that I'm in a spiritual battle in a realm that's over my head and beyond my understanding. Somehow or another I'm always forgetting to pick up my sword as I head into the day or my crisis or situation. I'm downright neglectful. I know I need my sword to do battle on a spiritual level. Thanks for reminding me. Thanks for assuring the victory.
So what's Jesus saying here in this text? Palestine was a dangerous place with all the political tensions. Was Jesus advocating being part of an insurrection against Rome or Herod or even the Temple guard? Was He implying with His impending death that there would be others coming after them? What's the deal?
Jesus isn't promoting violence or aggression. He isn't even talking about the disciples defending themselves against an angry mob. Jesus is preparing them for the spiritual battle ahead, about which His disciples hadn't a clue. As the Apostle Paul reminds us, our battle isn't against rulers and principalities of this world, flesh and blood. The spiritual battle we're in is fought on a different plane.
When I was playing football, back in the leather helmet days (just kidding), our coach would have us practice hard all week. Usually we were in full pads, but not always. Practice was often intense, but nothing like the competition of the game. Before each game we got the pep talk, where our coach would "pysche us up." He was getting us ready for the physical encounter of the game. Virtually, that's what Jesus was doing here. The mission of God was now going to be in their hands.
The image of Jesus' followers with swords may seem contradictory at first, yet it's an image the Bible clearly paints. Ephesians talks about taking up the sword of the Spirit as part of the armor of God. Hebrews refers the word of God as sharper than a two edge sword. Revelation paints an image of Jesus' return riding a white horse wielding a sharp sword with fire in His eyes. A true symbol of conquering victory.
I told our congregation this past Sunday that I was tired of the blond hair, blue eyed, effeminate image everyone paints of Jesus. It doesn't really appeal to me or invite me. I want see Jesus painted more like the image of Mel Gibson in Braveheart, riding around on His white horse rallying the troops. Now that could get me pumped up, ready for the game of life.
God, I sometimes forget that I'm in a spiritual battle in a realm that's over my head and beyond my understanding. Somehow or another I'm always forgetting to pick up my sword as I head into the day or my crisis or situation. I'm downright neglectful. I know I need my sword to do battle on a spiritual level. Thanks for reminding me. Thanks for assuring the victory.
Monday, October 1, 2007
Daily Reflections on Lk. 13:6-9 (Getting Rid of the Deadwood)
This past winter and spring were devastating to some of the newly planted shrubs and plants around my house. I'm a sucker for flowering shrubs. Our house had nothing but dying vegetation throughout the yard when we moved in a couple years ago. It was a lot of back breaking working to pull the old deadwood shrubs out, prepare the beds and plant new ones. In southwest Missouri one has to mine before one can plant. You don't dig a hole and drop in a bush. You chisel a hole with a pick ax, jack hammer, or back hoe. Talk about manual labor.
Between the worse ice storm in 30 years and an extremely late killer frost this spring just as many trees and bushes were preparing to bloom, it did a big time number on my azaleas, roses, butterfly bushes, sand cherry, Altheas (Rose of Sharon), crepe myrtle, rhododendrons, Bradford pears, Dogwoods and nandinas. It even nearly killed my dwarf evergreens. I was heart broken. Everything looked dead.
Like many others, I went to the plant nursery to find out what to do. Since we've never had a late killer frost like that, no one knew what to do. I was ready to dig it all out and start over. But the advice a of master gardener encouraged me to wait. "They more than likely won't bloom this year, but give it time and the plants should make it," she pronounced. I followed her advice. It took some time and some special care, but nearly all of the plants have survived and some of them even bloomed, albeit late. There's no doubt signs of stress in several of the bushes, but I only lost one Rose of Sharon.
Giving them time and attention helped them to make it and produce. Had I just gone on appearance last spring, I would have angrily ripped about 30 plants from the ground and started over. As it turned out, my patience and care saved me tons of time and cash. Looks like now I'll only be replacing one shrub.
At some point, God will dig up the deadwood and get rid of it. In the meantime, He gives us every chance to respond to Him and grow in Him. He may have to do a radical pruning to force us back from the roots, but He's desire is to see us bloom and grow.
God, gentle pruning is hard enough to take. Radical pruning is downright painful. Lord, you know what I need when I need it. I know you'll do what you have to keep me growing into the image of your Son. I confess I enjoy the fertilizing and watering more than the pruning. Go ahead do what you must so that I can produce the kind of fruit that gives you glory. Show me as a leader, when to break out the pruning shears and when to apply the fertilizer and water. Lord, also help me know who/what still has potential and who/what is deadwood.
Between the worse ice storm in 30 years and an extremely late killer frost this spring just as many trees and bushes were preparing to bloom, it did a big time number on my azaleas, roses, butterfly bushes, sand cherry, Altheas (Rose of Sharon), crepe myrtle, rhododendrons, Bradford pears, Dogwoods and nandinas. It even nearly killed my dwarf evergreens. I was heart broken. Everything looked dead.
Like many others, I went to the plant nursery to find out what to do. Since we've never had a late killer frost like that, no one knew what to do. I was ready to dig it all out and start over. But the advice a of master gardener encouraged me to wait. "They more than likely won't bloom this year, but give it time and the plants should make it," she pronounced. I followed her advice. It took some time and some special care, but nearly all of the plants have survived and some of them even bloomed, albeit late. There's no doubt signs of stress in several of the bushes, but I only lost one Rose of Sharon.
Giving them time and attention helped them to make it and produce. Had I just gone on appearance last spring, I would have angrily ripped about 30 plants from the ground and started over. As it turned out, my patience and care saved me tons of time and cash. Looks like now I'll only be replacing one shrub.
At some point, God will dig up the deadwood and get rid of it. In the meantime, He gives us every chance to respond to Him and grow in Him. He may have to do a radical pruning to force us back from the roots, but He's desire is to see us bloom and grow.
God, gentle pruning is hard enough to take. Radical pruning is downright painful. Lord, you know what I need when I need it. I know you'll do what you have to keep me growing into the image of your Son. I confess I enjoy the fertilizing and watering more than the pruning. Go ahead do what you must so that I can produce the kind of fruit that gives you glory. Show me as a leader, when to break out the pruning shears and when to apply the fertilizer and water. Lord, also help me know who/what still has potential and who/what is deadwood.
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