As the leaves begin to turn and fall enters the scene, lining up a put gets a little more challenging. The greens are still manicured as usual, but the wear and tear of of all the ball marks, traffic, new hole placements begin to take their toll. On top of that, the leaves don't stay on the trees and come floating down onto the once smooth verdant surface. And with the falling leaves often come various other debris like twigs and acorns. It makes putting a little more difficult.
I have often thought about bringing a leaf blower with me to the golf course in the fall, but that means I would have to take the chain saw out of my bag that I normally use to get rid of inappropriately placed branches and trees. The little things on the green that cause your ball to hop, change directions or even stop are an irritation at best. They can cause your score to go up and in fact make it difficult to get the ball in the cup. The only chance you have of making the put is if you remove the obstacles.
That's exactly what God does for us through Jesus Christ. He removes the obstacles that lead to Him and lasting relationship with Him. God really isn't into punishing they way many people think. Yes, God will and does punish us for our sin. He has to because He is just. But God's desire is to restore, to renew, to create.
According to Isaiah 57, those who are contrite of heart and return in complete dependence upon Him, God will revive their hearts, forget His anger toward them, heal them, guide them, comfort them, create an inner joy for them, renew their hope, bring inner peace to their life. If we show an inkling to come back to Him, God makes it possible. And when we do come to Him in full surrender, He embraces us with His fullness, love, mercy, grace and riches.
God, I don't want to be like the wicked who can't find peace. I want to experience your renewal and refreshment and peace in my life. Remove the obstacles that keep me from you. Prepare the path that leads to you. Look deep into my heart and see my contrition. Remove my curses. Show me your face. Heal my heart. Turn my mourning into praise.
Showing posts with label heart. Show all posts
Showing posts with label heart. Show all posts
Monday, September 29, 2008
Monday, May 12, 2008
Daily Reflections of Prov. 15:4 (The Tongue Can Be Awesome)
Long before Greek playwright, Euripides, wrote, "the tongue is mightier than the blade," in 406BC and Edward Bulwer-Lytton wrote, "the pen is mightier than the sword," in 1839, King Solomon wrote these words in Proverbs 15:4 about the tongue. "The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit."
Simple words but wise words. When Solomon writes about the tongue he captures more than just the articulation of words. He includes our hearts, our motives, our intentions and our attitudes. Obviously, a tongue isn't deceitful by its on volition. It doesn't have ulterior motives. It doesn't scheme or craft words on its own. The tongue is only a tool of the brain to express thoughts, ideas, messages, love, comfort, disdain, etc.
I hear people talk about having a potty mouth or a nasty tongue as if it's something affixed to their body of which they have no control. "It just goes off on its own sometimes. I never know what it's going to do or say." My response, "Really?" The tongue only expresses what's happening inside us. It reveals a lot about us. Just like the eyes are the windows to our souls, our tongues are trumpets of our character.
Deceitful tongues reveal a deceitful person who is primarily only concerned about themselves. Their purpose is to take advantage or to intentionally hurt someone. A tongue that brings healing reveals a person of compassion. Their purpose is selfless and adds hope and comfort to others.
I've met a lot of tongues in my day. It doesn't take long just listen to find out about a person. I've met critical tongues, analytical tongues, angry tongues, hurt tongues, arrogant tongues, bashful tongues, loud tongues, funny tongues, defensive tongues, harsh tongues, pleasant tongues, stinging tongues, lying tongues, honest tongues, insightful tongues, lecturing tongues, vile tongues, soothing tongues, and yes, deceitful tongues and healing tongues.
The sad thing is that those tongues at some point in my life could have been mine. In fact, they could have been mine throughout the course of a single day. So what does that say about me? What does your tongue say about you? A close examination of our tongue, reveals a great deal about what's going in our own heart and mind. If our tongue is expressing a lot of negativity, anger, hurt, piety, or self-righteousness, then we need to take a close look at ourselves. I want people to see my tongue as the tree of life that brings refreshment and healing and hope and encouragement.
God, I realize my tongue brings forth blessings and curses. I don't want to be seen a negative, hurtful or harmful tongue. I don't want to use my tongue to give lashings. I want to be seen as a fountain of refreshment that allows others to drink of your river of life. Fill me. Indwell me. Capture me so that from my lips will flow the fruit of your encouragement and good news.
Simple words but wise words. When Solomon writes about the tongue he captures more than just the articulation of words. He includes our hearts, our motives, our intentions and our attitudes. Obviously, a tongue isn't deceitful by its on volition. It doesn't have ulterior motives. It doesn't scheme or craft words on its own. The tongue is only a tool of the brain to express thoughts, ideas, messages, love, comfort, disdain, etc.
I hear people talk about having a potty mouth or a nasty tongue as if it's something affixed to their body of which they have no control. "It just goes off on its own sometimes. I never know what it's going to do or say." My response, "Really?" The tongue only expresses what's happening inside us. It reveals a lot about us. Just like the eyes are the windows to our souls, our tongues are trumpets of our character.
Deceitful tongues reveal a deceitful person who is primarily only concerned about themselves. Their purpose is to take advantage or to intentionally hurt someone. A tongue that brings healing reveals a person of compassion. Their purpose is selfless and adds hope and comfort to others.
I've met a lot of tongues in my day. It doesn't take long just listen to find out about a person. I've met critical tongues, analytical tongues, angry tongues, hurt tongues, arrogant tongues, bashful tongues, loud tongues, funny tongues, defensive tongues, harsh tongues, pleasant tongues, stinging tongues, lying tongues, honest tongues, insightful tongues, lecturing tongues, vile tongues, soothing tongues, and yes, deceitful tongues and healing tongues.
The sad thing is that those tongues at some point in my life could have been mine. In fact, they could have been mine throughout the course of a single day. So what does that say about me? What does your tongue say about you? A close examination of our tongue, reveals a great deal about what's going in our own heart and mind. If our tongue is expressing a lot of negativity, anger, hurt, piety, or self-righteousness, then we need to take a close look at ourselves. I want people to see my tongue as the tree of life that brings refreshment and healing and hope and encouragement.
God, I realize my tongue brings forth blessings and curses. I don't want to be seen a negative, hurtful or harmful tongue. I don't want to use my tongue to give lashings. I want to be seen as a fountain of refreshment that allows others to drink of your river of life. Fill me. Indwell me. Capture me so that from my lips will flow the fruit of your encouragement and good news.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Daily Reflections on Ruth 2:1-18 (Whatever Happened to Work Ethic and Character?)
Whatever happened to character and work ethic? Having talked with several HR directors and small business owners, finding people with character and a strong work ethic is a rare commodity these days. People show up for work late or not at all just because they don't feel like coming in or being there on time. Furthermore, they don't even call. Putting in a hard days work is becoming a thing of the past. Giving our best has given way to giving the minimum effort required.
Of course I'm speaking in generalities, not everyone is that way. But a trend is developing in our society. In our couch potato society, mediocrity seems to be the norm. There's a tendency to just get by. Complacency is becoming acceptable. Perhaps a natural result of a self absorbed culture.
That's what makes the story of Ruth is so amazing. Instead of being self absorbed, she is others centered. After her husband died at a young age, Ruth chooses to serve her mother-in-law instead of fending for herself. Her mother-in-law, Naomi, is also a widow and has no means of support. Both of her sons have died and now she is left with virtually nothing. Recognizing her daughter-in-laws are in a similar plight, but young enough to remarry, Naomi tries to send them back to their families.
But Ruth takes no thought of herself, only of her mother-in-law and dedicates her life to helping her survive. She goes back with Naomi to her husband's homeland. And since women in those days had no opportunity to earn a living other than through prostitution, slavery or begging, Naomi and Ruth had nothing but tough days ahead of them. But instead of doing any of those, Ruth headed for the fields to glean the leftovers from the local farmers' harvesting effort. She worked her tale off gathering grain each day so that she and Naomi would have something to eat.
Her efforts paid off. She impressed the eye of Boaz (who turned out to be her kinsmen redeemer) and his workers. They commented on her work ethic, determination and spirit. As they watched her work without complaint, they were moved to help her anyway they could. Her loyalty to Naomi became well known. Her selflessness and tireless spirit appreciated and admired. Her warmth and caring spirit made her attractive.
God rewarded Ruth, a non-Jew, for her faithfulness. Her character stood out to God, and she became the great grandmother of King David and the great, great grandmother of King Solomon. And if you trace the kingly line of David, you will realize, that it was through that line that Jesus was born.
What would have happened in history if Ruth would have called in sick or not shown up in the fields of Boaz. What would have happened if she would have decided to take the easy road and just go home to her parents? What would have happened if she would have taken the "just get by" mentality? Would David had been born? Would he have become king? Would Joseph and Mary been born? Would the redemption of the world happened?
Ruth wasn't anyone important. In fact, she wasn't even a Jew. Yet through her and her acts of faithfulness, redemption of mankind became possible. Our daily efforts do make a difference. Not giving our best day to day could effect more than we think. Character, work ethic, selflessness, a servant's heart can change the world. It's not about the size of the task or the position we hold. It's the attitude and spirit with which we do things that matter.
God, it's hard to see from our perspective what difference our attitude, character, work ethic makes in the big picture of life. It's so easy to slack off and to give minimum effort to things that we don't really see as important. Yet, God, even the little things we do seem to make a difference. The patterns we develop impacts others more than we think. Give me a spirit like Ruth's. I want to make a difference in the lives of others.
Of course I'm speaking in generalities, not everyone is that way. But a trend is developing in our society. In our couch potato society, mediocrity seems to be the norm. There's a tendency to just get by. Complacency is becoming acceptable. Perhaps a natural result of a self absorbed culture.
That's what makes the story of Ruth is so amazing. Instead of being self absorbed, she is others centered. After her husband died at a young age, Ruth chooses to serve her mother-in-law instead of fending for herself. Her mother-in-law, Naomi, is also a widow and has no means of support. Both of her sons have died and now she is left with virtually nothing. Recognizing her daughter-in-laws are in a similar plight, but young enough to remarry, Naomi tries to send them back to their families.
But Ruth takes no thought of herself, only of her mother-in-law and dedicates her life to helping her survive. She goes back with Naomi to her husband's homeland. And since women in those days had no opportunity to earn a living other than through prostitution, slavery or begging, Naomi and Ruth had nothing but tough days ahead of them. But instead of doing any of those, Ruth headed for the fields to glean the leftovers from the local farmers' harvesting effort. She worked her tale off gathering grain each day so that she and Naomi would have something to eat.
Her efforts paid off. She impressed the eye of Boaz (who turned out to be her kinsmen redeemer) and his workers. They commented on her work ethic, determination and spirit. As they watched her work without complaint, they were moved to help her anyway they could. Her loyalty to Naomi became well known. Her selflessness and tireless spirit appreciated and admired. Her warmth and caring spirit made her attractive.
God rewarded Ruth, a non-Jew, for her faithfulness. Her character stood out to God, and she became the great grandmother of King David and the great, great grandmother of King Solomon. And if you trace the kingly line of David, you will realize, that it was through that line that Jesus was born.
What would have happened in history if Ruth would have called in sick or not shown up in the fields of Boaz. What would have happened if she would have decided to take the easy road and just go home to her parents? What would have happened if she would have taken the "just get by" mentality? Would David had been born? Would he have become king? Would Joseph and Mary been born? Would the redemption of the world happened?
Ruth wasn't anyone important. In fact, she wasn't even a Jew. Yet through her and her acts of faithfulness, redemption of mankind became possible. Our daily efforts do make a difference. Not giving our best day to day could effect more than we think. Character, work ethic, selflessness, a servant's heart can change the world. It's not about the size of the task or the position we hold. It's the attitude and spirit with which we do things that matter.
God, it's hard to see from our perspective what difference our attitude, character, work ethic makes in the big picture of life. It's so easy to slack off and to give minimum effort to things that we don't really see as important. Yet, God, even the little things we do seem to make a difference. The patterns we develop impacts others more than we think. Give me a spirit like Ruth's. I want to make a difference in the lives of others.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Daily Reflections on Mt. 12:33-37 (How You Know You Need Mouthwash)
A friend of mine speaking on a passage from Rom 12 once talked about our conforming to the world versus conforming to the image in Christ. He was talking about how easy it is to put on a show. Outward appearance can be deceptive. He was emphasizing that it's what's inside us that matters most to God. But he also said something that I've never forgotten. He talked about the real us, the reactionary us. In the midst of the daily line of fire, who are we really. Then he used this illustration, "When you're in a supermarket and someone runs into you, what spills out all over them, 'Watch it, Buddy!' or the grace of God?"
So what's in your cup? Is is warm, nutritious, satisfying, delicious? Or is it rank and moldy? Is it capriciousness and hate and anger? Is it bitterness and hurt? Is it selfishness or selflessness?
Jesus, in this passage, shares an incredible insight into the heart of people. He says that out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. In other words, what's boiling in the heart is going to come out of the mouth eventually, especially when the pressure's on. Watch and listen to the everyday activities, conversations, reaction of person and that's who they really are.
Self analysis time. What's coming out of your mouth? Whining? Complaining? Arguing? Encouragement? Blessings? Joy? Negativity? Questionable conversations or language? Praise? Curses? Pettiness? Optimism? Hope? The words of Christ? Gossip?
"Fill my cup Lord, I lift it up Lord." I want you to spill out on people. My heart isn't the purest. Some days when people bump into me, I'm afraid they get slimed. I need you to fill me daily, Lord so that your love and grace fills my heart.
So what's in your cup? Is is warm, nutritious, satisfying, delicious? Or is it rank and moldy? Is it capriciousness and hate and anger? Is it bitterness and hurt? Is it selfishness or selflessness?
Jesus, in this passage, shares an incredible insight into the heart of people. He says that out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. In other words, what's boiling in the heart is going to come out of the mouth eventually, especially when the pressure's on. Watch and listen to the everyday activities, conversations, reaction of person and that's who they really are.
Self analysis time. What's coming out of your mouth? Whining? Complaining? Arguing? Encouragement? Blessings? Joy? Negativity? Questionable conversations or language? Praise? Curses? Pettiness? Optimism? Hope? The words of Christ? Gossip?
"Fill my cup Lord, I lift it up Lord." I want you to spill out on people. My heart isn't the purest. Some days when people bump into me, I'm afraid they get slimed. I need you to fill me daily, Lord so that your love and grace fills my heart.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Daily Reflections on Lk. 19:1-10 (Can a Person Really Change?)
Transformation is an amazing thing, especially when it happens to a person. It's often been said that people don't change, that the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior. It's probably true to some extent, yet I tend to be an optimist. People can change, well sort of. I don't mean a Jekyll and Hyde sort of change. I mean really change.
Obviously, people change their minds all the time. Politicians change their views from one stump to the next. I've always heard that changing your mind is a ladies prerogative. But that's not exactly what I was thinking. Changing your thinking, yes. Changing your mind, not really.
My observation is that people can't change by themselves. They need help. Self determination and accountability can help, but the moment we let go of the wheel or lose our accountability we have a tendency to steer out of control and fall back into the same old patterns.
Yet, I firmly believe that people can change. I read the story of Zacchaeus, and I see obvious transformation. What made the difference? How was he able to change. Not through self will, but through the power of Jesus. Jesus is able to create change in us by helping us change thought process. Not doubt little, tax collector Zac was a mess. Not a lot of real friends. People thought of him as a "sinner." We might think "crook." Yet through his encounter with Christ, he was changed.
It's really a great phrase, one of my favorite in the Bible. "He (Jesus) has gone to be a guest of a 'sinner.'" That's one of the most encouraging passages. It tells me that Jesus wants to connect with people like me and you and even those with a not so hot reputation. It tells me that there is hope for me. It tells me change is possible for me. When I see Zac's transformation, I'm excited about the possibilities for me and others.
Jesus' response to the life change of Zac, "Today salvation has come to this house." If it can come to that crook's, Zacchaeus, it certainly can come to mine. It reminds me that Jesus loves me so much that He's willing to come looking for me in my plight. When He finds me, He loves me for who I am. Yet, He loves me so deeply that He won't let me stay there.
Change is possible through Jesus. I don't have to stay the way I am. Even thought Jesus invited Himself to Zac's house, He prefers that we invite Him to our house.
Jesus, come hang out at my house. I need you. Change me. Change my heart. Change my thinking to your way of thinking.
Obviously, people change their minds all the time. Politicians change their views from one stump to the next. I've always heard that changing your mind is a ladies prerogative. But that's not exactly what I was thinking. Changing your thinking, yes. Changing your mind, not really.
My observation is that people can't change by themselves. They need help. Self determination and accountability can help, but the moment we let go of the wheel or lose our accountability we have a tendency to steer out of control and fall back into the same old patterns.
Yet, I firmly believe that people can change. I read the story of Zacchaeus, and I see obvious transformation. What made the difference? How was he able to change. Not through self will, but through the power of Jesus. Jesus is able to create change in us by helping us change thought process. Not doubt little, tax collector Zac was a mess. Not a lot of real friends. People thought of him as a "sinner." We might think "crook." Yet through his encounter with Christ, he was changed.
It's really a great phrase, one of my favorite in the Bible. "He (Jesus) has gone to be a guest of a 'sinner.'" That's one of the most encouraging passages. It tells me that Jesus wants to connect with people like me and you and even those with a not so hot reputation. It tells me that there is hope for me. It tells me change is possible for me. When I see Zac's transformation, I'm excited about the possibilities for me and others.
Jesus' response to the life change of Zac, "Today salvation has come to this house." If it can come to that crook's, Zacchaeus, it certainly can come to mine. It reminds me that Jesus loves me so much that He's willing to come looking for me in my plight. When He finds me, He loves me for who I am. Yet, He loves me so deeply that He won't let me stay there.
Change is possible through Jesus. I don't have to stay the way I am. Even thought Jesus invited Himself to Zac's house, He prefers that we invite Him to our house.
Jesus, come hang out at my house. I need you. Change me. Change my heart. Change my thinking to your way of thinking.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Daily Reflections on Ps. 82:1-4 (The New Deal, Bad Deal, and Real Deal)
I think I agree with the late Larry Burkett when he said that Franklin Roosevelt's, "New Deal" was actually a bad deal for America. Not that helping the disadvantaged is a bad idea, quite the contrary. The path of entitlement programs have overtaxed our country's resources. Now solubility of government programs like Social Security and Medicare are in doubt. Why? The Baby Boom followed by The Pill has created a kink in the pyramid cash flow principle. The shear numbers game is falling apart because the number of younger working adults isn't growing to meet the number of rapidly aging older adults. Add to that the mentality of entitlement programs and before long we'll see universal health care next. At the rate we're going, Americans will have 50-60% (or more) of their income taken out in taxes.
I think the "New Deal" was a bad deal for another reason. I think it has actually taken away our sense of responsibility to our friends, neighbors and others in general. It's created an "I'm entitled" mentality. It's also created a "let the government handle it" mentality. Don't we have programs to handle the poor and needy and down on your luck kind of people? I don't have to worry about feeding the poor because I pay taxes so that they can have food stamps.
Those who call themselves followers of Christ, the church, has been seriously affected by this cultural trend. In most of the churches that I have either served or attended, very little funds or energy was devoted to ministry to the poor, the hungry, the needy, the down and outers. We spent huge amounts on various internal programs and building payments.
I read passages like this in Ps. 82 and think, "have we as Christians missed a key element in our calling?" At the risk of being accused of preaching social gospel, isn't the church, God's people, supposed to be the advocates for the poor, the weak, the fatherless, the needy, the oppressed? Are we the ones who should be giving a cup of cold water, clothing the naked, feeding the hungry, visiting in prison, caring for needs?
As we close in on Christmas, it's easy for us to toss a couple coins in the bell ringer bucket or take a toy to a kid who isn't going to get Christmas. But what about the ongoing daily needs of people? Jesus obviously cared about the needs of people. Look at His life on earth. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, gave sight to the blind, challenged the unjust practices, released the oppressed, unfettered those held captive by demonic control and sin, gave hope to the hopeless, and proclaimed the Good News.
God, give me your eyes to see. Give me your heart and passion. Show me how to minister to those in need around me. I want to follow your path of sharing the Good News of God's love in practical meaningful ways. And not just at Christmas, Lord, but year round. I don't want to promote "New Deals." I want to proclaim the REAL Deal.
I think the "New Deal" was a bad deal for another reason. I think it has actually taken away our sense of responsibility to our friends, neighbors and others in general. It's created an "I'm entitled" mentality. It's also created a "let the government handle it" mentality. Don't we have programs to handle the poor and needy and down on your luck kind of people? I don't have to worry about feeding the poor because I pay taxes so that they can have food stamps.
Those who call themselves followers of Christ, the church, has been seriously affected by this cultural trend. In most of the churches that I have either served or attended, very little funds or energy was devoted to ministry to the poor, the hungry, the needy, the down and outers. We spent huge amounts on various internal programs and building payments.
I read passages like this in Ps. 82 and think, "have we as Christians missed a key element in our calling?" At the risk of being accused of preaching social gospel, isn't the church, God's people, supposed to be the advocates for the poor, the weak, the fatherless, the needy, the oppressed? Are we the ones who should be giving a cup of cold water, clothing the naked, feeding the hungry, visiting in prison, caring for needs?
As we close in on Christmas, it's easy for us to toss a couple coins in the bell ringer bucket or take a toy to a kid who isn't going to get Christmas. But what about the ongoing daily needs of people? Jesus obviously cared about the needs of people. Look at His life on earth. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, gave sight to the blind, challenged the unjust practices, released the oppressed, unfettered those held captive by demonic control and sin, gave hope to the hopeless, and proclaimed the Good News.
God, give me your eyes to see. Give me your heart and passion. Show me how to minister to those in need around me. I want to follow your path of sharing the Good News of God's love in practical meaningful ways. And not just at Christmas, Lord, but year round. I don't want to promote "New Deals." I want to proclaim the REAL Deal.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Daily Reflections on Haggai 1:1-15 (Life Is Consuming)
Life sure is consuming. We are so caught up in the day to day that's it's hard to see anything else. It amazes me that we live in a society that has more convenience than at any other time in history yet we seem to have less time for people, needs and relationships. We hurry here and hurry there and get nowhere. We zip home from work, either pick up fast food on the way home or microwave it when we get there so we can spend the evening watching Dancing with the Stars, The Bachelor, Heroes, House, or Entourage. We spend hours playing video games or chatting online or checking out all our friends on MySpace or Facebook.
What's funny is all I hear is about how tired everyone is. Of course in the next breath I hear about how late they were online or about the late show/movie they watched or something to that effect. We don't have time. We're too tired. Why?
Did I mention how caught up we are in just ordinary day to day stuff? We're not doing anything really significant with our life, yet we're consumed with our life. Weird. Is it just me? Am I just imagining it? Are people so caught up with themselves that they are consumed with themselves?
Not a new issue. Seems like that's what Haggai is addressing in this passage? People so consumed with their own life that can't see the bigger picture. When people, leadership first, finally opened their eyes and ears to God's message through Haggai their hearts were changed. The Lord stirred up their spirits. They got a fire to do something about their community and their efforts made a difference.
God's message in many places, homes and hearts is going unheard. There's an uneasiness that's rolling across our land. We're on our little merry-go-round, wrapped up in our little world as real needs go unmet, relationships crash and burn as our society slips into decay.
God, stir my heart. Light a fire in me and the folks at LifeSpring. Awaken us to your words and message of hope and healing and renewal and restoration and victory. Help up see what's really important in life. Unite us in purpose. Ignite us with your Spirit. Allow us to be an incendiary fellowship.
What's funny is all I hear is about how tired everyone is. Of course in the next breath I hear about how late they were online or about the late show/movie they watched or something to that effect. We don't have time. We're too tired. Why?
Did I mention how caught up we are in just ordinary day to day stuff? We're not doing anything really significant with our life, yet we're consumed with our life. Weird. Is it just me? Am I just imagining it? Are people so caught up with themselves that they are consumed with themselves?
Not a new issue. Seems like that's what Haggai is addressing in this passage? People so consumed with their own life that can't see the bigger picture. When people, leadership first, finally opened their eyes and ears to God's message through Haggai their hearts were changed. The Lord stirred up their spirits. They got a fire to do something about their community and their efforts made a difference.
God's message in many places, homes and hearts is going unheard. There's an uneasiness that's rolling across our land. We're on our little merry-go-round, wrapped up in our little world as real needs go unmet, relationships crash and burn as our society slips into decay.
God, stir my heart. Light a fire in me and the folks at LifeSpring. Awaken us to your words and message of hope and healing and renewal and restoration and victory. Help up see what's really important in life. Unite us in purpose. Ignite us with your Spirit. Allow us to be an incendiary fellowship.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Daily Reflections on Mt. 15:1-14 (I Didn't Know It Was There)
It was amazing. One week I could see and the week I turned 40 my eyes failed me. I couldn't see to read. It was embarrassing asking my kids to read menus or phone numbers or labels to me. The most common line in my vocab was, "What's that say?" How could you read so clearly and then it's gone.
It probably happened slower than I expected, but it felt like I just went blind. My eye doctor, Tami, explained the "maturing" process to me and ordered me a pair of glasses. Even with glasses my eyesight has deteriorated with each maturing year.
Jesus seems to be talking about what happens to a lot of religious people. The older they get, the blinder they become. Traditions gets confused with truth. Practices/methods get confused with doctrine. Church gets confused with Christianity. It becomes harder to offer grace and easier to embrace rules and rituals. A form of spiritual blindness sets in. Music styles, dress, evangelistic approaches, translations of the Bible, even church names become tests of fellowship. Unfortunately I've encountered the people described in verses 8-9 of our text all too often in the church.
Recently my hard drive died in my laptop and had to be replaced. After describing the problem to several tech/computer gurus, the nearly unanimous opinion was that a nasty virus had corrupted my files and killed my hard drive. The only solution, buy a new laptop or put in new hard drive. Some how or another, even with my virus protection, something got into my computer and killed it. Once it was inside, the problem grew, unnoticed, until my whole operating system was infected.
Eyes, blindness, computer viruses they can sneak up on you, even if you're trying to be vigilant. Sometimes they grow and eat away at your vitality without you ever noticing. That's what Jesus is pointing out to us spiritually? What's developing in your heart, in your attitude, in your behavior? What's taking over and spilling out? Are you more concerned about worship styles and what people are wearing to church than you are about those who don't yet know Christ as Lord and Savior? Are you more concerned about having pews instead of chairs than you are about people suffering through divorce or physical abuse or single moms struggling to make ends meet. Are you more concerned about your church programs than you are about the aged, the homeless, the broken, the helpless in your community?
God, help me to see you clearly. Help me to see my own heart and attitude clearly.
It probably happened slower than I expected, but it felt like I just went blind. My eye doctor, Tami, explained the "maturing" process to me and ordered me a pair of glasses. Even with glasses my eyesight has deteriorated with each maturing year.
Jesus seems to be talking about what happens to a lot of religious people. The older they get, the blinder they become. Traditions gets confused with truth. Practices/methods get confused with doctrine. Church gets confused with Christianity. It becomes harder to offer grace and easier to embrace rules and rituals. A form of spiritual blindness sets in. Music styles, dress, evangelistic approaches, translations of the Bible, even church names become tests of fellowship. Unfortunately I've encountered the people described in verses 8-9 of our text all too often in the church.
Recently my hard drive died in my laptop and had to be replaced. After describing the problem to several tech/computer gurus, the nearly unanimous opinion was that a nasty virus had corrupted my files and killed my hard drive. The only solution, buy a new laptop or put in new hard drive. Some how or another, even with my virus protection, something got into my computer and killed it. Once it was inside, the problem grew, unnoticed, until my whole operating system was infected.
Eyes, blindness, computer viruses they can sneak up on you, even if you're trying to be vigilant. Sometimes they grow and eat away at your vitality without you ever noticing. That's what Jesus is pointing out to us spiritually? What's developing in your heart, in your attitude, in your behavior? What's taking over and spilling out? Are you more concerned about worship styles and what people are wearing to church than you are about those who don't yet know Christ as Lord and Savior? Are you more concerned about having pews instead of chairs than you are about people suffering through divorce or physical abuse or single moms struggling to make ends meet. Are you more concerned about your church programs than you are about the aged, the homeless, the broken, the helpless in your community?
God, help me to see you clearly. Help me to see my own heart and attitude clearly.
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.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Daily Reflections on Mt. 6:5-15 (Why Pray?)
Why pray? If God already knows what my needs are why should I pray? Jesus says it right here in verse 8 that the Father knows what we need before we ask. So why pray? Why wouldn't God just give us what we need if He's really a loving father? Does He want us to grovel and beg?
Actually it's just the opposite. Jesus says when you ask, don't put on a show. He says don't try to make yourself look religious. God already knows your motives. The Bible says that we don't have because we don't ask and when we do, we ask with wrong motives. Jesus says here that God isn't impressed with a show anyway. Instead, God is interested in intimacy.
Let's be honest, God doesn't owe us anything; nor do we deserve anything from God. But the good news is that God loves us. And because He loves us, He wants to be involved in our lives. He knows what our need are because He's paying attention.
Jesus instructs us in this passage to go into our room, shut the world out and spend time just talking and listening to God. Even when you know that your best friend can't solve your problem you share your issues with them in private. Why? If they're your best friend, they probably already know your problems and issues, so why do you tell them? The answer: because sometimes we just need to talk with someone we know cares.
God invites us to share our joys and concerns and challenges and problems and opportunities and victories with Him. He wants us to ask Him His opinion. God has always been interested in our relationship with Him. The Bible tells us that we're the apple of His eye. He wants us to share our life with Him. Prayer is simply communicating with God. It's not rubbing the magic lamp to get the genie to act. It's not proving our worth. It's not trying to get God's attention. It's opening up our hearts to Him. It's inviting Him into our life. That's why Paul says to pray without ceasing.
God, it seems like sometimes I look at prayer as simply presenting my wish list to you. Yet, I know it's about our relationship. Forgive me for failing to foster our relationship through prayer. I want you in my life. I recognize that you're interested in both the big and small issues in my life. As much time I spend each day on the phone or emailing or messenging others, you'd think I'd remember to include you more. Help me to be more aware of your presence.
Actually it's just the opposite. Jesus says when you ask, don't put on a show. He says don't try to make yourself look religious. God already knows your motives. The Bible says that we don't have because we don't ask and when we do, we ask with wrong motives. Jesus says here that God isn't impressed with a show anyway. Instead, God is interested in intimacy.
Let's be honest, God doesn't owe us anything; nor do we deserve anything from God. But the good news is that God loves us. And because He loves us, He wants to be involved in our lives. He knows what our need are because He's paying attention.
Jesus instructs us in this passage to go into our room, shut the world out and spend time just talking and listening to God. Even when you know that your best friend can't solve your problem you share your issues with them in private. Why? If they're your best friend, they probably already know your problems and issues, so why do you tell them? The answer: because sometimes we just need to talk with someone we know cares.
God invites us to share our joys and concerns and challenges and problems and opportunities and victories with Him. He wants us to ask Him His opinion. God has always been interested in our relationship with Him. The Bible tells us that we're the apple of His eye. He wants us to share our life with Him. Prayer is simply communicating with God. It's not rubbing the magic lamp to get the genie to act. It's not proving our worth. It's not trying to get God's attention. It's opening up our hearts to Him. It's inviting Him into our life. That's why Paul says to pray without ceasing.
God, it seems like sometimes I look at prayer as simply presenting my wish list to you. Yet, I know it's about our relationship. Forgive me for failing to foster our relationship through prayer. I want you in my life. I recognize that you're interested in both the big and small issues in my life. As much time I spend each day on the phone or emailing or messenging others, you'd think I'd remember to include you more. Help me to be more aware of your presence.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Daily Reflections on 1 Jn. 5:13-15 (Security)
Assurance leads to security. When you absolutely know something you act in confidence. When you know your car's going to start, you don't a have second thought, you just jump in and go. When you now that your job is there, you work with assurance and confidence. When you know that your spouse or significant other loves you, you enjoy life and your relationship. It's when those things aren't so sure in your mind that the worry, fear, tension, suspicion, doubt, trepidation, and anxiety creeps into your mind and life.
It's amazing to me the people that go through life without the assurance of eternal life in Christ. Many so called "believers" are unsure of their salvation. While many non-Christians hope that their good works are enough to earn God's pleasure, but they're never really sure. Both are locked into the idea of proving themselves to God one way or the other.
How do I know if I have eternal life in heaven with God? John tries to give us that assurance. It starts with a personal relationship with God through Christ. It's not about joining some church or church membership. It's about accepting God's free gift of salvation through His son Jesus. That comes from believing and trusting in God; your confession or admission that you're not perfect and you need His forgiveness.
John also emphasizes how important it is to allow God's Spirit to work in you and through you. The best demonstration of that is the practical application of God's love to others. If we don't love like God, then we're simply not allowing God's Spirit to work. And if we refuse to allow God's Spirit to work, then John says that we don't belong to God or His family.
How do I know if I have eternal life? If I believe in Christ, have chosen to surrender my life to Him and allow God's Spirit to flow freely in my life. In other words, what's really going on in my heart? If I've truly allowed God to have my heart, it will be apparent in my behavior and prayers. My prayers will be about things of the Kingdom of God, things that are on God's heart.
God, I believe in you and your promises. You've shaped my heart with a passion for things of the Kingdom. Help me to be constantly aware of your Spirit. Help me to reflect and demonstrate your love and grace to others around me. Thanks for the assurance of eternal life in you.
It's amazing to me the people that go through life without the assurance of eternal life in Christ. Many so called "believers" are unsure of their salvation. While many non-Christians hope that their good works are enough to earn God's pleasure, but they're never really sure. Both are locked into the idea of proving themselves to God one way or the other.
How do I know if I have eternal life in heaven with God? John tries to give us that assurance. It starts with a personal relationship with God through Christ. It's not about joining some church or church membership. It's about accepting God's free gift of salvation through His son Jesus. That comes from believing and trusting in God; your confession or admission that you're not perfect and you need His forgiveness.
John also emphasizes how important it is to allow God's Spirit to work in you and through you. The best demonstration of that is the practical application of God's love to others. If we don't love like God, then we're simply not allowing God's Spirit to work. And if we refuse to allow God's Spirit to work, then John says that we don't belong to God or His family.
How do I know if I have eternal life? If I believe in Christ, have chosen to surrender my life to Him and allow God's Spirit to flow freely in my life. In other words, what's really going on in my heart? If I've truly allowed God to have my heart, it will be apparent in my behavior and prayers. My prayers will be about things of the Kingdom of God, things that are on God's heart.
God, I believe in you and your promises. You've shaped my heart with a passion for things of the Kingdom. Help me to be constantly aware of your Spirit. Help me to reflect and demonstrate your love and grace to others around me. Thanks for the assurance of eternal life in you.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Daily Reflections on Mt. 7:21-27 (Who's Going to Heaven?)
Who's getting into heaven? I'm generally amazed and amused by the discussion. In my years as a pastor I guess I've heard a zillion reasons for getting into heaven from "I'm a good person" to "I grew up in the church" to "My grandmother or grandfather was real religious" to "God is a good god so everybody will be saved." I've heard various theological opinions and rituals to perform. As I visit with families at the death of a loved one sometimes I hear a litany of reasons why grandpa or cousin Joe, who never had anything to do with Christ, never darkened the door of a church and the only time he used the name of God was in an expletive, was going to heaven.
Jesus said, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he (or she) who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." That's pretty clear. Jesus goes on to say that prophesying in His name doesn't get you in. Driving out demons in His name doesn't get you in. Performing miracles doesn't automatically get you into heaven. Does that mean I could have perfect church attendance for 50 years and not get it? I could give large sums of money to the church and not get into heaven? Absolutely!
Church attendance, keeping rules and regulations, outward signs of religiosity or spirituality aren't what get you into heaven. My guess is the Apostle John missed a few Sundays while in exile on Patmos and Paul probably had to skip sometimes while he was in prison. What Jesus plainly said gets you into the kingdom of heaven is doing the will of God, the Father. How do I do that? Jesus said it's by surrendering your life and will completely to God. It boils down down to submission and obedience that stem from an intimate relationship with God through Jesus Christ. It's about building your life on and in Him.
God is always more interested in what's going on in your heart and mind. It's easy to put on a show. Many of us do that to impress our peers. God is interested in authentic surrender and submission to Him, that's played out in genuine obedience and behavior. Lip service is not enough. Our life and lifestyle counts for something.
God, look into my heart. See if there is any wicked way in me. Guide me in your paths by your Holy Spirit. Cleanse me, renew me, lead me each day. I'm not interesting in showing off or pretense. I simply want to be yours to do with as you see fit. I submit my will to you.
Jesus said, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he (or she) who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." That's pretty clear. Jesus goes on to say that prophesying in His name doesn't get you in. Driving out demons in His name doesn't get you in. Performing miracles doesn't automatically get you into heaven. Does that mean I could have perfect church attendance for 50 years and not get it? I could give large sums of money to the church and not get into heaven? Absolutely!
Church attendance, keeping rules and regulations, outward signs of religiosity or spirituality aren't what get you into heaven. My guess is the Apostle John missed a few Sundays while in exile on Patmos and Paul probably had to skip sometimes while he was in prison. What Jesus plainly said gets you into the kingdom of heaven is doing the will of God, the Father. How do I do that? Jesus said it's by surrendering your life and will completely to God. It boils down down to submission and obedience that stem from an intimate relationship with God through Jesus Christ. It's about building your life on and in Him.
God is always more interested in what's going on in your heart and mind. It's easy to put on a show. Many of us do that to impress our peers. God is interested in authentic surrender and submission to Him, that's played out in genuine obedience and behavior. Lip service is not enough. Our life and lifestyle counts for something.
God, look into my heart. See if there is any wicked way in me. Guide me in your paths by your Holy Spirit. Cleanse me, renew me, lead me each day. I'm not interesting in showing off or pretense. I simply want to be yours to do with as you see fit. I submit my will to you.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Daily Reflections on 1 Sam. 16:6-13 (Who Me?)
Who me? It's always been interesting to me who God uses to accomplish His task or mission. David, the runt of the litter so to speak; Jacob, the con man; Gideon, cowering in a wine press; or even the twelve disciples, an unlikely lot from mostly Galilee. I'm also reminded about the time that God used a real ass, Balaam's donkey.
If God can use people such as these, He can use anyone. The talents, resources, education, charisma, wealth, athleticism, looks, intelligence make little difference to Him. The little boy who gave his few loaves and fishes to Jesus were enough to feed thousands with plenty of leftovers. It's not what we have in our hands or what we think we bring to the table that God is looking for. It's much deeper. When we face a task, a crisis, a challenge or whatever, our first instinct is to take a quick inventory of what we have in terms of resources. God really doesn't need our resources. He wants something more.
The text says that God looks not at outward appearances. Rather He sees into our heart, mind, being, our very soul. He knows our intentions, our true character, our tendencies, our attitude. He knows our willingness to conform to His will, to surrender to Him. And that's what He's looking for! 2 Chr. 16:9 says that the eyes of the Lord are roaming to and fro across the earth searching for those whose heart is completely His. And when He finds that person, he's able to use them.
It doesn't matter how much you have, how smart you are, how gifted you are. What matters is your heart toward Him. A widow's last two mites became a cache of riches. A lady's last bit of oil and flour became an endless supply of food. A slingshot became a giant killer. When God's Spirit falls on God's man, David was empowered from that day forward.
God, I want to be your man, your person for your purpose. Take what I have and use it to your glory. As David cried out, create in me a pure heart, a clean heart, a usable heart. I want to be a vessel in your hands, whether that's slaying giants, conquering kingdoms, feeding thousands, comforting the hurting or delivering your message.
If God can use people such as these, He can use anyone. The talents, resources, education, charisma, wealth, athleticism, looks, intelligence make little difference to Him. The little boy who gave his few loaves and fishes to Jesus were enough to feed thousands with plenty of leftovers. It's not what we have in our hands or what we think we bring to the table that God is looking for. It's much deeper. When we face a task, a crisis, a challenge or whatever, our first instinct is to take a quick inventory of what we have in terms of resources. God really doesn't need our resources. He wants something more.
The text says that God looks not at outward appearances. Rather He sees into our heart, mind, being, our very soul. He knows our intentions, our true character, our tendencies, our attitude. He knows our willingness to conform to His will, to surrender to Him. And that's what He's looking for! 2 Chr. 16:9 says that the eyes of the Lord are roaming to and fro across the earth searching for those whose heart is completely His. And when He finds that person, he's able to use them.
It doesn't matter how much you have, how smart you are, how gifted you are. What matters is your heart toward Him. A widow's last two mites became a cache of riches. A lady's last bit of oil and flour became an endless supply of food. A slingshot became a giant killer. When God's Spirit falls on God's man, David was empowered from that day forward.
God, I want to be your man, your person for your purpose. Take what I have and use it to your glory. As David cried out, create in me a pure heart, a clean heart, a usable heart. I want to be a vessel in your hands, whether that's slaying giants, conquering kingdoms, feeding thousands, comforting the hurting or delivering your message.
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