This morning I thought I would start working through John's first letter. Its been a while since I worked through John's letters. I like John's uniquely personal perspective. This morning I am meditating on the following passages - 1 John 1:5-7 NIV:
[5] This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. [6] If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. [7] But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin."
You could probably write a book about these three verses, as the richness of the metaphor of light vs. dark just can go on and on. John's language here proclaims the nature of God in very simple yet profound terms. He is primarily talking about sin, and God's sinless nature. the Greek word translated sin is the work Hamartia or Hamartano (in this verse the first) and the word is defined as follows:
1. to be without a share in
2. to miss the mark
3. to err, be mistaken
4. to miss or wander from the path of uprightness and honour, to do or go wrong
5. to wander from the law of God, violate God's law, sin
The question, when I read the definition (first three entries), is what am I missing, without share in or mistaken about? I believe the answer is God's will for our lives, which is quite a bit more than just the Law. Jesus explained in Matt 5-7 how you can follow the Law, but still be sinning, as sin and God's will involves our heart and mind as well, not just our actions. In John's Gospel Jesus talks about obeying His commands and maintaining relationship with Him, "remaining in Him" as critical to our walk and acceptance by the Father. The whole of this theme swirls around relationship, God's character and our lives.
If I define the goal or the target as "God's perfect will for my life" then the first three definitions make decent sense. I can be totally outside of God's will for my life, I can miss that target by a little or by much, I can be mistaken or erred in my understanding of His perfect will. Continuing, I can miss or wander away from that path, and ultimately be in violation of God's law.
If the goal is God's perfect will is the measure, than it is impossible for there to be any "sin" in God, for His will IS His will. Nothing and no one can make God do anything other than His will. He is perfect in that measure, thus there is no darkness or sin at all.
John goes on and says if we claim to have fellowship (relationship) with God but are walking totally outside of His will, we are lying, and do not live out of the truth (which incidentally IS Jesus - John 10:10). If I don't know God, how is it possible to live my life according to His will and purpose? Relationship is much more than knowing about someone, it is actually based on interaction with that other individual. If I never talk to another, or listen to them, how can I be in their will?
Moving on, if we walk in the light (in relationship and trying to follow His will) then the Blood of Jesus cleanses us of all of our sin (missing the mark, erring, wandering, missing our share, etc). In other words, if we are working to really be in relationship with Him, His love for us, as demonstrated by Jesus' death and spilling of His own blood, will provide forgiveness for any time we don't obey His perfect will for our lives, past, present and future. Not only that but we are joined into true fellowship with one another (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) and each other.
So, in my mind, sin is all about missing God's will for my life. The invitation is to relationship with Him, and in relationship Jesus' blood is applied to the totality of my life and cleanses me of my sins (missing the mark, etc). Relationship is something that is continual, regular and willful. I can't say a prayer one time and think that I am in relationship. In fact, I think that would be a good example of verse 6. We can't just take the name of Christian and then do what we want (See Matt 7: 21-23). We must endeavor to follow His will to the best of our ability, and maintain relationship with Him.
I am encouraged today to continue to press into God, walking in the Light, uncovering the riches of relationship that are available, and working hard to follow His will in my life, as I understand it. His perfect will is the best possible path for my life and I would be foolish to do anything else.
Monday, November 30, 2015
Monday, November 23, 2015
The Kingdom of God - Jesus' Foundational Message
This morning I am thinking about Jesus' core message. I was reading about the start of His ministry in Luke's Gospel. Here are three short verses that caught my eye - Luke 4:42-44 NIV:
[42] "At daybreak, Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them. [43] But he said, “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.” [44] And he kept on preaching in the synagogues of Judea."
Here are similar verse from Matthew's Gospel - Matthew 4:12-13, 17 NIV:
[12] "When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he withdrew to Galilee. [13] Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali--- "
[17] "From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
And finally a few verses from the Acts of the Apostles - Acts 1:1-3 NIV:
[1] "In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach [2] until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. [3] After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God."
It is pretty clear what Jesus' primary message was all about, namely the Kingdom of God (Heaven). This was pretty much the first thing He talked about and pretty much the last thing He talked about, after having risen from the dead. He spoke about the establishment of God's Kingdom multiple times and yet I had rarely if ever heard anyone do much teaching on this topic. Paul spent his final days, as recorded in the last verses from Acts, speaking about the Kingdom - Acts 28:31 NIV: "He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ---with all boldness and without hindrance!"
I remember a particular day where I was reading one of the Gospels through in a single sitting (it was either Matthew or Luke) and the consistency of His speaking about the Kingdom finally sank in, as I read over and over about Him speaking and teaching about the Kingdom. I remember thinking, how is it that I have never heard, nor ever realized that this is probably the foundational message of Jesus' ministry, and apparently the Apostles as well?
That day I started reading and thinking about the Kingdom of God consistently, trying to work through and understand this core message. Between the two (Kingdom of God/Heaven) there are 112 mentions in the New Testament. It is interesting that although Jesus spoke about it numerous times, it also seemed to be something that people just didn't understand. The apostles pretty much misunderstood Jesus right up to the day He ascended into Heaven (See Acts 1: 6), for they thought it meant an earthly kingdom, like Israel experienced under David and Solomon. The Apostles weren't the only ones who misunderstood, for the Pharisees and Sadducees were all expecting the same earthly kingdom, and one of the reasons they didn't recognize Jesus was that He didn't act like someone who was going to establish a kingdom here on earth. He wasn't trying to gather followers or unite the people for a populous uprising!
So if this was one of Jesus' and the Apostle's foundational themes, and something that was consistently misunderstood or missed, I think it is critical for us to understand and embrace this message. We should endeavor to grasp what Jesus was talking about, and figure out how it applies to our lives here and now. It is my prayer that I fully live out this message in my life, for this is the Good News (Luke 4:43).
[42] "At daybreak, Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them. [43] But he said, “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.” [44] And he kept on preaching in the synagogues of Judea."
Here are similar verse from Matthew's Gospel - Matthew 4:12-13, 17 NIV:
[12] "When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he withdrew to Galilee. [13] Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali--- "
[17] "From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
And finally a few verses from the Acts of the Apostles - Acts 1:1-3 NIV:
[1] "In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach [2] until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. [3] After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God."
It is pretty clear what Jesus' primary message was all about, namely the Kingdom of God (Heaven). This was pretty much the first thing He talked about and pretty much the last thing He talked about, after having risen from the dead. He spoke about the establishment of God's Kingdom multiple times and yet I had rarely if ever heard anyone do much teaching on this topic. Paul spent his final days, as recorded in the last verses from Acts, speaking about the Kingdom - Acts 28:31 NIV: "He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ---with all boldness and without hindrance!"
I remember a particular day where I was reading one of the Gospels through in a single sitting (it was either Matthew or Luke) and the consistency of His speaking about the Kingdom finally sank in, as I read over and over about Him speaking and teaching about the Kingdom. I remember thinking, how is it that I have never heard, nor ever realized that this is probably the foundational message of Jesus' ministry, and apparently the Apostles as well?
That day I started reading and thinking about the Kingdom of God consistently, trying to work through and understand this core message. Between the two (Kingdom of God/Heaven) there are 112 mentions in the New Testament. It is interesting that although Jesus spoke about it numerous times, it also seemed to be something that people just didn't understand. The apostles pretty much misunderstood Jesus right up to the day He ascended into Heaven (See Acts 1: 6), for they thought it meant an earthly kingdom, like Israel experienced under David and Solomon. The Apostles weren't the only ones who misunderstood, for the Pharisees and Sadducees were all expecting the same earthly kingdom, and one of the reasons they didn't recognize Jesus was that He didn't act like someone who was going to establish a kingdom here on earth. He wasn't trying to gather followers or unite the people for a populous uprising!
So if this was one of Jesus' and the Apostle's foundational themes, and something that was consistently misunderstood or missed, I think it is critical for us to understand and embrace this message. We should endeavor to grasp what Jesus was talking about, and figure out how it applies to our lives here and now. It is my prayer that I fully live out this message in my life, for this is the Good News (Luke 4:43).
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Dealing WIth Doubt
This morning as I was quieting myself I heard the word "doubt". I know this is sometimes coupled with unbelief, and fear. However I wanted to take some time to look its use in scripture. I looked up the different uses of it in the New Testament and saw the following verses in the Letter from Jude, the apostle James' brother.
Jude 1:17-23 NIV:
[17] "But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. [18] They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” [19] These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.
[20] But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, [21] keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
[22] Be merciful to those who doubt; [23] save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear---hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh."
As we look at these verses, I am encouraged by the heart expressed by Jude. It seems to me that we often lose our kind, gentle and compassionate heart when we deal with other members of the Body of Christ that are struggling. Jude doesn't say anything about judging here, but he certainly expresses an ability to identify and help those who are struggling.
David Guzik had these comments in his Bible commentary:
"And on some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh.
a. On some have compassion: What do we do with those who have been influenced by these certain men? We need to make a distinction, based on where they are coming from. Certainly, on some have compassion.
i. Using wisdom, we approach different people in different manners. By being sensitive to the Holy Spirit, we can know when we should comfort, and when we should rebuke. Christians should not abandon a friend flirting with false teaching. They should help him through it in love.
ii. The means we keep loving them. No matter how bad a person is, or how misleading and terrible their doctrine, we are not allowed to hate them - or to be unconcerned for their salvation.
iii. Compassion often means watching over someone, helping them with accountability. "Meantime watch over others as well as yourselves; and give them such help as their various needs require." (Wesley)
b. Others save with fear: This second group must be confronted more strongly - but in fear, not in a sanctimonious superiority. You may need to pull them out of the fire, but never do it in pride.
c. This outward look is important. Are you only concerned for your own spiritual welfare? Or do you care about other Christians who may be edging towards significant error?"
It is right for us to be concerned with one another. It is right to love one another. It is right and good to converse and discuss our beliefs and ideas and concerns. It is important that we maintain a heart of mercy and compassion for our brothers and sisters. As I write this I am reminded of the many times it said the disciples and Apostles didn't understand what Jesus was saying. He didn't blast them for their inability, but rather entrusted them to the Holy Spirit, knowing that He is very capable of helping them to understand in time.
We who have more experience in the Lord must not look down on those new believers. We need to make sure that we are ready to help however much is needed. Let us love one another, for love covers over a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8). Let us deal gently with those that doubt, those that struggle, those that are young in their faith, and those who have been raised with different beliefs. This includes ourselves.
Amen.
Jude 1:17-23 NIV:
[17] "But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. [18] They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” [19] These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.
[20] But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, [21] keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
[22] Be merciful to those who doubt; [23] save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear---hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh."
As we look at these verses, I am encouraged by the heart expressed by Jude. It seems to me that we often lose our kind, gentle and compassionate heart when we deal with other members of the Body of Christ that are struggling. Jude doesn't say anything about judging here, but he certainly expresses an ability to identify and help those who are struggling.
David Guzik had these comments in his Bible commentary:
"And on some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh.
a. On some have compassion: What do we do with those who have been influenced by these certain men? We need to make a distinction, based on where they are coming from. Certainly, on some have compassion.
i. Using wisdom, we approach different people in different manners. By being sensitive to the Holy Spirit, we can know when we should comfort, and when we should rebuke. Christians should not abandon a friend flirting with false teaching. They should help him through it in love.
ii. The means we keep loving them. No matter how bad a person is, or how misleading and terrible their doctrine, we are not allowed to hate them - or to be unconcerned for their salvation.
iii. Compassion often means watching over someone, helping them with accountability. "Meantime watch over others as well as yourselves; and give them such help as their various needs require." (Wesley)
b. Others save with fear: This second group must be confronted more strongly - but in fear, not in a sanctimonious superiority. You may need to pull them out of the fire, but never do it in pride.
c. This outward look is important. Are you only concerned for your own spiritual welfare? Or do you care about other Christians who may be edging towards significant error?"
It is right for us to be concerned with one another. It is right to love one another. It is right and good to converse and discuss our beliefs and ideas and concerns. It is important that we maintain a heart of mercy and compassion for our brothers and sisters. As I write this I am reminded of the many times it said the disciples and Apostles didn't understand what Jesus was saying. He didn't blast them for their inability, but rather entrusted them to the Holy Spirit, knowing that He is very capable of helping them to understand in time.
We who have more experience in the Lord must not look down on those new believers. We need to make sure that we are ready to help however much is needed. Let us love one another, for love covers over a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8). Let us deal gently with those that doubt, those that struggle, those that are young in their faith, and those who have been raised with different beliefs. This includes ourselves.
Amen.
Friday, November 20, 2015
Yes, I Know You...
Lately I have been all over the place in scripture, and just trying to stay engaged. I decided to read some in Matthew's Gospel, which just feels comfortable to me, as I have read it so many times. The verses that I am thinking about this morning are the following - Matthew 7:21-23 NIV:
[21] “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' [23] Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
The last sentence kind of grabs your attention, and is the focus of my deeper digging today. The NASB translates that sentence as follows: "And then I will declare to them, `I never knew you; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS." Looking at the original Greek, the NASB translation is more accurate.
Two things stand out to me in this sentence. First, the reason Jesus tells them to depart is because He never knew them, as in He didn't have relationship with them. The Greek word Ginosko is quite specific, and it means - to learn to know, come to know, get a knowledge of perceive, feel. This word is also a Jewish idiom for sexual intercourse between a man and a woman. In other words this is not a casual knowing, but is representative of an intimate knowledge, a deeper understanding of someone. Jesus is quite specific, He isn't impressed with the actions in His name, He is interested in relationship. He isn't interested in people knowing His name, His title, what He likes, or trying to imitate Him - He is interested in relationship.
Secondly, He appears to equate a lack of relationship with practicing lawlessness. The two Greek words used here are also quite specific. This is not casual or accidental breaking of the law, but rather people who make an effort and labor in order to profit from this lawlessness. That is a very interesting statement, and one I am sure I don't fully grasp. I don't think Jesus is speaking to everyone in this statement, but is focused on people who are practicing religion for gain, and without real relationship with Him. I could never understand how something like that could occur, but have read different things about the amazing number of pastors and preachers who don't pray, and who don't seem to have a real relationship with the Lord. There are many who love the idea of religion, who love the church, who love leading people, who love being in charge, or positions of honor or authority but who don't know Him. In His day, this would likely have been many of the Pharisees. In our day, this might represent not just some pastors and churchmen, but also those people who say and do things in the name of God, or religion, yet don't really have a real relationship with the Lord.
I will be the first to say that judging someone else's relationship with the Lord is dangerous waters. Judgment is the Lord's role, not ours. I can only look at my own life, and identify whether His statement is true for me, whether I know Him and He knows me. The encouragement is clear, we want Him to be able to say, "yes, I know you!" What that looks like for me is time in prayer, making an effort to know Him, converse with Him, listen to Him, read about Him, and trying to live my life following Him, doing those things He tells me to do. I try to understand who I am in Him, how He sees me, what He thinks about me. I believe that I continue to grow in relationship with Him every day. I am grateful that my desire for relationship with Him is reciprocated, and He has made a way for us to be in relationship with Him, through the Holy Spirit living within us. I am so encouraged that He actually takes an interest in me and desires to guide, direct, empower and help me.
Amen!
[21] “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' [23] Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
The last sentence kind of grabs your attention, and is the focus of my deeper digging today. The NASB translates that sentence as follows: "And then I will declare to them, `I never knew you; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS." Looking at the original Greek, the NASB translation is more accurate.
Two things stand out to me in this sentence. First, the reason Jesus tells them to depart is because He never knew them, as in He didn't have relationship with them. The Greek word Ginosko is quite specific, and it means - to learn to know, come to know, get a knowledge of perceive, feel. This word is also a Jewish idiom for sexual intercourse between a man and a woman. In other words this is not a casual knowing, but is representative of an intimate knowledge, a deeper understanding of someone. Jesus is quite specific, He isn't impressed with the actions in His name, He is interested in relationship. He isn't interested in people knowing His name, His title, what He likes, or trying to imitate Him - He is interested in relationship.
Secondly, He appears to equate a lack of relationship with practicing lawlessness. The two Greek words used here are also quite specific. This is not casual or accidental breaking of the law, but rather people who make an effort and labor in order to profit from this lawlessness. That is a very interesting statement, and one I am sure I don't fully grasp. I don't think Jesus is speaking to everyone in this statement, but is focused on people who are practicing religion for gain, and without real relationship with Him. I could never understand how something like that could occur, but have read different things about the amazing number of pastors and preachers who don't pray, and who don't seem to have a real relationship with the Lord. There are many who love the idea of religion, who love the church, who love leading people, who love being in charge, or positions of honor or authority but who don't know Him. In His day, this would likely have been many of the Pharisees. In our day, this might represent not just some pastors and churchmen, but also those people who say and do things in the name of God, or religion, yet don't really have a real relationship with the Lord.
I will be the first to say that judging someone else's relationship with the Lord is dangerous waters. Judgment is the Lord's role, not ours. I can only look at my own life, and identify whether His statement is true for me, whether I know Him and He knows me. The encouragement is clear, we want Him to be able to say, "yes, I know you!" What that looks like for me is time in prayer, making an effort to know Him, converse with Him, listen to Him, read about Him, and trying to live my life following Him, doing those things He tells me to do. I try to understand who I am in Him, how He sees me, what He thinks about me. I believe that I continue to grow in relationship with Him every day. I am grateful that my desire for relationship with Him is reciprocated, and He has made a way for us to be in relationship with Him, through the Holy Spirit living within us. I am so encouraged that He actually takes an interest in me and desires to guide, direct, empower and help me.
Amen!
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Making Every Effort to Grow...
This morning I opened my Bible to Peter's second letter. I like his writing, its simple and to the point. Here are the verses I am meditating on today - 2 Peter 1:5-13 NIV:
[5] "For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; [6] and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; [7] and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. [8] For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. [9] But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins. [10] Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, [11] and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."
[12] "So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have. [13] I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body,.."
I remember when I first read this list of things to add to my life, I was thinking about them like there was an order to them. I thought that you got one figured out and moved onto the next one. Now, not so much, for clearly we want them all in our lives, and need to be working on them in parallel. When I look at that list I see very admirable character qualities, things I would want said about me. They seem related to the fruit of the Holy Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23, but i notice that Peter says that these are things we can add by our efforts. I don't think this is a one source (my effort) or the other (Holy Spirit) situation, but rather a joining and embracing what He is doing and saying, adding our own will to accelerate and focus our efforts. It is recognizing that these are good and beneficial and worthy of effort.
I was thinking about how many of us (myself not included) have regular physical exercise regimens, where we "make every effort" to stay in shape, to grow stronger, to lose weight, whatever the goal is individually (I need to do all three). What I am wondering is if we have ever put together a spiritual and character exercise plan, that would enable us to "make every effort" to grow in these areas?
I think that similar realities apply here. First, it takes regular, more than once a week, effort. Many people who work out physically do so daily, especially the ones who really want to make progress. Secondly, it takes consistency, as in a regular schedule that builds the time into your day or weekly regimen. Thirdly, it helps to talk to others, to read what others say, and to try and find what works for you. What I do is right for me, and it took me a while to find that correct mix, and its very different from what my wife Tina does. Fourth, it requires a healthy diet, not necessarily the food we eat, but what we consume in other areas, as in media and such. I find that my spirit is very sensitive to the music I listen to and the TV or movies I watch. If I am filling myself with stuff that is encouraging to my spirit, I find my efforts to stay on track and focused on the Lord are easier. Lastly, it is always good to train with someone else, to find someone to partner with, to go through a similar regimen. Some people will work through a book or Bible study with someone else, or even a small group.
I like that Peter says that he will always remind them of these things, even though they already know them all. Being humble and recognizing that we can always use a review, always benefit from being reminded. I regularly read back through my journal, refreshing those things that the Lord has been showing me or speaking to me. In the same way, it is good to go back over and over again the scriptures, for so often the Lord might emphasize something completely differently each time you read sections of scripture. I have read through Matthew's Gospel probably hundreds of times, yet I always see something that seems new or fresh.
So this morning, I am reminded and renewed in my daily efforts to grow in my faith and godly character. Lord, please help me to persevere and actually grow.
[5] "For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; [6] and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; [7] and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. [8] For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. [9] But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins. [10] Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, [11] and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."
[12] "So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have. [13] I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body,.."
I remember when I first read this list of things to add to my life, I was thinking about them like there was an order to them. I thought that you got one figured out and moved onto the next one. Now, not so much, for clearly we want them all in our lives, and need to be working on them in parallel. When I look at that list I see very admirable character qualities, things I would want said about me. They seem related to the fruit of the Holy Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23, but i notice that Peter says that these are things we can add by our efforts. I don't think this is a one source (my effort) or the other (Holy Spirit) situation, but rather a joining and embracing what He is doing and saying, adding our own will to accelerate and focus our efforts. It is recognizing that these are good and beneficial and worthy of effort.
I was thinking about how many of us (myself not included) have regular physical exercise regimens, where we "make every effort" to stay in shape, to grow stronger, to lose weight, whatever the goal is individually (I need to do all three). What I am wondering is if we have ever put together a spiritual and character exercise plan, that would enable us to "make every effort" to grow in these areas?
I think that similar realities apply here. First, it takes regular, more than once a week, effort. Many people who work out physically do so daily, especially the ones who really want to make progress. Secondly, it takes consistency, as in a regular schedule that builds the time into your day or weekly regimen. Thirdly, it helps to talk to others, to read what others say, and to try and find what works for you. What I do is right for me, and it took me a while to find that correct mix, and its very different from what my wife Tina does. Fourth, it requires a healthy diet, not necessarily the food we eat, but what we consume in other areas, as in media and such. I find that my spirit is very sensitive to the music I listen to and the TV or movies I watch. If I am filling myself with stuff that is encouraging to my spirit, I find my efforts to stay on track and focused on the Lord are easier. Lastly, it is always good to train with someone else, to find someone to partner with, to go through a similar regimen. Some people will work through a book or Bible study with someone else, or even a small group.
I like that Peter says that he will always remind them of these things, even though they already know them all. Being humble and recognizing that we can always use a review, always benefit from being reminded. I regularly read back through my journal, refreshing those things that the Lord has been showing me or speaking to me. In the same way, it is good to go back over and over again the scriptures, for so often the Lord might emphasize something completely differently each time you read sections of scripture. I have read through Matthew's Gospel probably hundreds of times, yet I always see something that seems new or fresh.
So this morning, I am reminded and renewed in my daily efforts to grow in my faith and godly character. Lord, please help me to persevere and actually grow.
A Love Note From Your Heavenly Father
To begin with, let me say I am so happy that you decided to read this. You may not know it, but I think that You are absolutely fantastic, and I just wanted to take a moment to tell you that. You see, many people misunderstand me, misquote me, and just don't represent me very well, so I thought I would cut through all that stuff and just tell you myself.
First, I am not kidding, I think you are fantastic. No kidding. In fact you are exactly how I imagined you would be. You look quite a bit like me, act quite a bit like me, and have many of my good character traits. When I look at you, I see only positive, awesome and beautiful things. In fact, I don't have a negative thought about you.
Secondly, I am not mad at you, not even a little miffed. You see I have this great plan and you are part of it, and your life up to now all fits perfectly into that plan. How is that possible you might ask? Well lets just say we already took care of the all the bad stuff, and when I look at you I see you as you are going to be in the future, not just as you are now. Did I mention the fact that I think you are fantastic?
Third, I am not an angry guy. I mean who wants their father to be an angry guy? Think about it this way, if you were the perfect definition of love, would you be angry? If you were in complete control, surrounded by those you love and love you the most, would you be angry? Lets just say that lots of people get this part wrong about me, and I want to set the record straight. Everything good, everything beautiful, everything majestic, everything that is awe-inspiring came from me. I am overwhelmingly and eternally good.
Fourthly, I want you to know that I want a relationship with you. Yep, a real live relationship just like you have with other people, only with me. I want to know you and to help you to know me. I think you are fantastic, one of the best ever, and I want to talk and share and express my deep love for you. I absolutely think the world of you and think you are one of the most significant people ever. Everything about you is wonderful and I want to enjoy time together with you. I have made a perfect way for us to be able to have a relationship, and my son Jesus made it all possible.
I want you to be able hear me and understand what I am thinking. I want to hear from you, understanding what you are thinking. I want to be with you all the time, everyday, experiencing life together. I want to show you all the best things, and encourage you in all your gifts, talents and uniqueness. I want to introduce you to others who think the same way about you and surround you with love and affection.
When I look at you, I am just so proud of who you are, and who you become. I need to be honest, it does help that I can see the whole of time, and I see how everything ends up, including you. Don't miss the significance of that - I am seeing you both now and in the future as well as all of your past, and my opinion of you hasn't changed a bit, I still think you are awesome, fantastic and positively brilliant.
What's the catch you might ask? That's the best part, there isn't one. This is free, provided through my son Jesus. You don't have to earn it, change yourself to qualify, nothing. That really is the good news. I have done everything necessary, all you have to do is decide to give me a chance. I am not concerned about anything you might have done, anything you might have said, anything at all. My love for you overcomes all of that. All you need to do is say yes, because that is the one thing I would never do, force myself on you or force you to decide. I am eternally patient. Again, it helps when you see the whole of time and know how everything turns out.
Why now you ask? It is simply because I know that your life will better with me in it. I know the help and encouragement, love and support that I can provide you. I want everyone to experience the very best life possible, and when you are walking with me, in relationship with me, that is possible.
I really do think you are fantastic, and I wanted to extend this personal invitation to relationship with me. I could go on and on, and I am sure you have lots of questions which we can get to later, but let me just say again, I love you and I have some awesome plans for our life together. I hope that you say yes, but even if you don't now, I still love you and think you are awesome. I am the most patient individual in the world. I will be here with the same invitation when you decide to say yes. It really does help when you can see how everything turns out.
Lastly, you really are an awesome person, don't let anyone tell you differently. I have seen everyone ever created, and there is no one quite like you! You are one of the best ever, and I am very excited about the opportunity to have a deep and abiding relationship. I can't wait to tell you how proud I am of you!
I love you,
Your Father
p.s. If you want to do a little background check, take a bit of time to read my friend John's account of my son Jesus' life. My son came to earth not only to pay for everything, but to show the world what I am really like. In fact everything he did and said were directly from me. You can find this account of Jesus' life in the Bible, in the Gospel of John, and it should give you a better idea of who I am.
First, I am not kidding, I think you are fantastic. No kidding. In fact you are exactly how I imagined you would be. You look quite a bit like me, act quite a bit like me, and have many of my good character traits. When I look at you, I see only positive, awesome and beautiful things. In fact, I don't have a negative thought about you.
Secondly, I am not mad at you, not even a little miffed. You see I have this great plan and you are part of it, and your life up to now all fits perfectly into that plan. How is that possible you might ask? Well lets just say we already took care of the all the bad stuff, and when I look at you I see you as you are going to be in the future, not just as you are now. Did I mention the fact that I think you are fantastic?
Third, I am not an angry guy. I mean who wants their father to be an angry guy? Think about it this way, if you were the perfect definition of love, would you be angry? If you were in complete control, surrounded by those you love and love you the most, would you be angry? Lets just say that lots of people get this part wrong about me, and I want to set the record straight. Everything good, everything beautiful, everything majestic, everything that is awe-inspiring came from me. I am overwhelmingly and eternally good.
Fourthly, I want you to know that I want a relationship with you. Yep, a real live relationship just like you have with other people, only with me. I want to know you and to help you to know me. I think you are fantastic, one of the best ever, and I want to talk and share and express my deep love for you. I absolutely think the world of you and think you are one of the most significant people ever. Everything about you is wonderful and I want to enjoy time together with you. I have made a perfect way for us to be able to have a relationship, and my son Jesus made it all possible.
I want you to be able hear me and understand what I am thinking. I want to hear from you, understanding what you are thinking. I want to be with you all the time, everyday, experiencing life together. I want to show you all the best things, and encourage you in all your gifts, talents and uniqueness. I want to introduce you to others who think the same way about you and surround you with love and affection.
When I look at you, I am just so proud of who you are, and who you become. I need to be honest, it does help that I can see the whole of time, and I see how everything ends up, including you. Don't miss the significance of that - I am seeing you both now and in the future as well as all of your past, and my opinion of you hasn't changed a bit, I still think you are awesome, fantastic and positively brilliant.
What's the catch you might ask? That's the best part, there isn't one. This is free, provided through my son Jesus. You don't have to earn it, change yourself to qualify, nothing. That really is the good news. I have done everything necessary, all you have to do is decide to give me a chance. I am not concerned about anything you might have done, anything you might have said, anything at all. My love for you overcomes all of that. All you need to do is say yes, because that is the one thing I would never do, force myself on you or force you to decide. I am eternally patient. Again, it helps when you see the whole of time and know how everything turns out.
Why now you ask? It is simply because I know that your life will better with me in it. I know the help and encouragement, love and support that I can provide you. I want everyone to experience the very best life possible, and when you are walking with me, in relationship with me, that is possible.
I really do think you are fantastic, and I wanted to extend this personal invitation to relationship with me. I could go on and on, and I am sure you have lots of questions which we can get to later, but let me just say again, I love you and I have some awesome plans for our life together. I hope that you say yes, but even if you don't now, I still love you and think you are awesome. I am the most patient individual in the world. I will be here with the same invitation when you decide to say yes. It really does help when you can see how everything turns out.
Lastly, you really are an awesome person, don't let anyone tell you differently. I have seen everyone ever created, and there is no one quite like you! You are one of the best ever, and I am very excited about the opportunity to have a deep and abiding relationship. I can't wait to tell you how proud I am of you!
I love you,
Your Father
p.s. If you want to do a little background check, take a bit of time to read my friend John's account of my son Jesus' life. My son came to earth not only to pay for everything, but to show the world what I am really like. In fact everything he did and said were directly from me. You can find this account of Jesus' life in the Bible, in the Gospel of John, and it should give you a better idea of who I am.
Monday, November 16, 2015
Wealth and Our Heart's Focus
This morning I was reading in Mark's Gospel and as I read the following verses, I was reminded of a couple other verses. The first set is the story of the rich young man, as follows - Mark 10:17-23 NIV:
[17] As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
[18] “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good---except God alone. [19] You know the commandments: 'You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.' ”
[20] “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.”
[21] Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
[22] At this the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth. [23] Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”
As I read those verse, two things stood out. First, the young man RAN up to Jesus. This was not a chance encounter, by a moderately interested individual. This young man had passion, desire and a hunger for the things of God. Second, Jesus looked at him and loved him. He didn't look at him with disdain. He didn't judge him for what was in his heart, He Loved him. The Lord knew what was in his heart, yet Jesus loved him. Jesus gave him an opportunity to step free of those things that kept him bound, those things he had given his heart to, and the whole time Jesus loved him.
When I read those verses, I was immediately reminded of the parable of the sower and the seeds. The following is the description the Lord gives of one of the types of soil - Matthew 13:22 NIV: "The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful."
When I look at the young man's reaction, I see exactly what Jesus described. The young man welcomed the word, took it in and wanted to follow Jesus. However, he had given his heart to his wealth, to the good things, to pursuing more wealth. Now instead of being free to do what he wanted because he had the money to do so, he was actually bound by the worries, concerns and desires for wealth. He was unable to free himself so that he could be concerned with the proclamation of the Gospel, and following Jesus, producing much fruit. That is exactly what Jesus talked about, for the deceitfulness of wealth is that it will bring you freedom, when in reality it can cause a bit of a black-hole that draws you deeper in, taking your heart focus away from the things of God.
In our modern day this can look like a desire to have nice things, a nice house and car, and such, but then needing to work constantly to pay for those things. No freedom to pick up and go where the Lord might call. Many of us can become enslaved to our needs and wants, always desiring more, and having to work harder and harder to get those things. When I look at my own life, I see so many things I need to take care of, that I need to be about, including my job which requires much focus and work. I realize that I am not nearly as free as I could be, or might desire to be.
The challenge is to hold those things lightly, to be willing to change our life-style or part ways with those things that hold us back, or make us less fruitful than we might desire. A good question to consider is are we willing to lay aside our trappings of wealth and luxury to pursue the things of God? If our hearts struggle with that question, then we are pretty much like the young man in the story from Mark. The good news is that Jesus sees our heart, and loves us. He invites us into relationship with Him, and He will help us.
In a final reflection, my Dad did exactly what the young man was challenged to do. He sold most everything we had, leaving a very comfortable life, a great job, and moved up to Northern Minnesota to live in a much smaller house, with far fewer nice things, and much less money, all so that he could follow God more closely. As a teenager I was significantly affected, but I have to say, my life was never happier nor more free. We had much less, but we had joy, and each other. This is certainly not the call for all people, nor is Jesus' invitation to the first young man, but my experience certainly demonstrated the truth of Jesus' words in these two stories.
My encouragement this day is to consider the state of my heart and life and what I am focused on. Am I constrained by my lifestyle and "wealth" in such a way that I am unfruitful, or less fruitful than I might be otherwise? Have I turned down the invitation of the Lord out of concern for my things, my lifestyle? Am I good soil, bearing much fruit?
[17] As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
[18] “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good---except God alone. [19] You know the commandments: 'You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.' ”
[20] “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.”
[21] Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
[22] At this the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth. [23] Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”
As I read those verse, two things stood out. First, the young man RAN up to Jesus. This was not a chance encounter, by a moderately interested individual. This young man had passion, desire and a hunger for the things of God. Second, Jesus looked at him and loved him. He didn't look at him with disdain. He didn't judge him for what was in his heart, He Loved him. The Lord knew what was in his heart, yet Jesus loved him. Jesus gave him an opportunity to step free of those things that kept him bound, those things he had given his heart to, and the whole time Jesus loved him.
When I read those verses, I was immediately reminded of the parable of the sower and the seeds. The following is the description the Lord gives of one of the types of soil - Matthew 13:22 NIV: "The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful."
When I look at the young man's reaction, I see exactly what Jesus described. The young man welcomed the word, took it in and wanted to follow Jesus. However, he had given his heart to his wealth, to the good things, to pursuing more wealth. Now instead of being free to do what he wanted because he had the money to do so, he was actually bound by the worries, concerns and desires for wealth. He was unable to free himself so that he could be concerned with the proclamation of the Gospel, and following Jesus, producing much fruit. That is exactly what Jesus talked about, for the deceitfulness of wealth is that it will bring you freedom, when in reality it can cause a bit of a black-hole that draws you deeper in, taking your heart focus away from the things of God.
In our modern day this can look like a desire to have nice things, a nice house and car, and such, but then needing to work constantly to pay for those things. No freedom to pick up and go where the Lord might call. Many of us can become enslaved to our needs and wants, always desiring more, and having to work harder and harder to get those things. When I look at my own life, I see so many things I need to take care of, that I need to be about, including my job which requires much focus and work. I realize that I am not nearly as free as I could be, or might desire to be.
The challenge is to hold those things lightly, to be willing to change our life-style or part ways with those things that hold us back, or make us less fruitful than we might desire. A good question to consider is are we willing to lay aside our trappings of wealth and luxury to pursue the things of God? If our hearts struggle with that question, then we are pretty much like the young man in the story from Mark. The good news is that Jesus sees our heart, and loves us. He invites us into relationship with Him, and He will help us.
In a final reflection, my Dad did exactly what the young man was challenged to do. He sold most everything we had, leaving a very comfortable life, a great job, and moved up to Northern Minnesota to live in a much smaller house, with far fewer nice things, and much less money, all so that he could follow God more closely. As a teenager I was significantly affected, but I have to say, my life was never happier nor more free. We had much less, but we had joy, and each other. This is certainly not the call for all people, nor is Jesus' invitation to the first young man, but my experience certainly demonstrated the truth of Jesus' words in these two stories.
My encouragement this day is to consider the state of my heart and life and what I am focused on. Am I constrained by my lifestyle and "wealth" in such a way that I am unfruitful, or less fruitful than I might be otherwise? Have I turned down the invitation of the Lord out of concern for my things, my lifestyle? Am I good soil, bearing much fruit?
Lord, help me to see myself clearly.
Thursday, November 12, 2015
My Heart's Condition & Finances
This morning I felt led to read from Malachi. This book is quite familiar to me, but not one I frequent, so I was wondering why the Lord would direct me there. Here are the verses I am focused on - Malachi 3:7-15 NIV:
[7] "Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty.“
But you ask, 'How are we to return?'
[8] “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me.“
But you ask, 'How are we robbing you?'
“In tithes and offerings. [9] You are under a curse---your whole nation---because you are robbing me. [10] Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. [11] I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe, ” says the Lord Almighty. [12] “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty.
[13] “You have spoken arrogantly against me,” says the Lord.“
Yet you ask, 'What have we said against you?'
[14] “You have said, 'It is futile to serve God. What do we gain by carrying out his requirements and going about like mourners before the Lord Almighty? [15] But now we call the arrogant blessed. Certainly evildoers prosper, and even when they put God to the test, they get away with it.' ”
Clearly the Lord is after something in my heart concerning finances, and after reading these verses I understand what He is pointing at in my life. Yesterday, I got some disappointing news at work, that will likely impact me negatively in the financial realm. Needless to say, this type of news is not welcomed in any house, and especially here as we continue to work to dig out from a few very tight years, and try to save for our retirement. My immediate thought was all about me, feeling sorry for myself, disappointed in the lost opportunities that this represented.
I found myself sliding into thoughts similar to those described in verses 14 and 15. I was allowing the enemy to fill my head with negative thoughts, even listening to some of his accusations against the Father. I believe that the Lord clearly led me to this job, and all of the jobs I have had over the last several years. Even though I have followed the Lord, it seems true financial success has not come to pass. Rather then looking at the myriad of blessings the Lord has poured into my life, I was focused only on my disappointment. At the heart of the issue is a small amount of unbelief still in my life, and I have allowed this to influence my thoughts and ultimately my actions.
I am encouraged this morning to repent and change the way I think, and what I think about. God is the source of all good things, and He loves me dearly and has provided abundantly. He is not punishing me, nor angry with me, and He has a plan for me. His provision and blessing will follow me every day of my life. I will continue to believe His word, and trust in His promises and weather the present situation with grace, peace and joy from Him.
Lord, you know the weakness in me, I ask that You help me press into You, for in my weakness You are strong.
[7] "Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty.“
But you ask, 'How are we to return?'
[8] “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me.“
But you ask, 'How are we robbing you?'
“In tithes and offerings. [9] You are under a curse---your whole nation---because you are robbing me. [10] Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. [11] I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe, ” says the Lord Almighty. [12] “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty.
[13] “You have spoken arrogantly against me,” says the Lord.“
Yet you ask, 'What have we said against you?'
[14] “You have said, 'It is futile to serve God. What do we gain by carrying out his requirements and going about like mourners before the Lord Almighty? [15] But now we call the arrogant blessed. Certainly evildoers prosper, and even when they put God to the test, they get away with it.' ”
Clearly the Lord is after something in my heart concerning finances, and after reading these verses I understand what He is pointing at in my life. Yesterday, I got some disappointing news at work, that will likely impact me negatively in the financial realm. Needless to say, this type of news is not welcomed in any house, and especially here as we continue to work to dig out from a few very tight years, and try to save for our retirement. My immediate thought was all about me, feeling sorry for myself, disappointed in the lost opportunities that this represented.
I found myself sliding into thoughts similar to those described in verses 14 and 15. I was allowing the enemy to fill my head with negative thoughts, even listening to some of his accusations against the Father. I believe that the Lord clearly led me to this job, and all of the jobs I have had over the last several years. Even though I have followed the Lord, it seems true financial success has not come to pass. Rather then looking at the myriad of blessings the Lord has poured into my life, I was focused only on my disappointment. At the heart of the issue is a small amount of unbelief still in my life, and I have allowed this to influence my thoughts and ultimately my actions.
I am encouraged this morning to repent and change the way I think, and what I think about. God is the source of all good things, and He loves me dearly and has provided abundantly. He is not punishing me, nor angry with me, and He has a plan for me. His provision and blessing will follow me every day of my life. I will continue to believe His word, and trust in His promises and weather the present situation with grace, peace and joy from Him.
Lord, you know the weakness in me, I ask that You help me press into You, for in my weakness You are strong.
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
That Which Really Matters
This morning I felt like I should read from Luke's Gospel, in the twelfth chapter. This chapter is full of much teaching and statements from Jesus, but as I was reading the following two sections stood out to me, clearly partly due to my recent loss of my father.
Luke 12:14-21, 29-34 NIV
[14] "Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” [15] Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
[16] And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. [17] He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.' [18] “Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. [19] And I'll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.” '
[20] “But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'
[21] “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”
[29] "And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. [30] For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. [31] But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well."
[32] “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. [33] Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. [34] For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
I have been thinking quite a bit about our mortality, our purpose, and how we can make a difference in the lives of those around us. I am encouraged by Jesus' words this morning, directing us to look beyond material possessions, to the greater reality, our eternal destiny. We are called to consider our life from a different perspective, not as it relates to our time here on earth, but rather our time afterwards in eternity.
I believe that our lives here do matter in eternity, as Jesus clearly indicates in these verses. Our focus can be on amassing things here, or in preparing our lives for our heavenly embrace. Jesus talks about storing up treasures for ourselves in heaven, and relates it to giving to the poor, then goes on to say that we shouldn't be worried about possessions here on earth. He preceded theses statements calling us to seek first His kingdom, to not worry about possessions. He urges us to seek His Kingdom, to invest in this with our lives. I find it interesting that He also says His Kingdom is in us (Luke 17:21), literally in our very midst, as in people. If we are seeking first His Kingdom, and it exists in each other, than our focus would be on each other, not on our possessions. I think that the message, at its core, is we should be putting people before possessions.
I was talking to my Mom about relationships and our future heavenly experience. It is my belief that the foundational value in the Kingdom of God is in relationships. Jesus came to earth to restore our ability to have a direct relationship with the Father, becoming the Way (John 14:6). He and the Holy Spirit desire to be with us, in relationship always (John 15-17). We are called to be a part of the Body of Christ, through our relationships with one another (1 Cor 12). When a man and woman marry they become one in God's eyes (Matt 19:4-6), clearly demonstrating God's perspective about relationships. All of this is to say that it seems to me that our treasure in heaven must be related to our relationships.
Thinking further about this, if we are called to seek His Kingdom first, and it is in people (for it is clearly not delineated by geography), then the most important thing here on earth, besides out relationship with the Lord, is our relationships with one another. Jesus says basically this same thing in answering the question about the greatest commandments - Matthew 22:37-39 NIV: "Jesus replied: “ 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" Another way to refer to the greatest commandments would be to call them the most important things to focus on - loving God and loving each other. Thus, we come full circle for our focus on relationship with God and others is supposed to be the most important thing in all our lives. We are supposed to put these before all else, and in so doing are adding to our treasure in heaven. Our hearts are where are treasure is, and if our treasure is relationships with God and one another, then our hearts would be with them. Our natural proclivity would be to care for those that we treasure, which is the exactly what Jesus was talking about.
So I am encouraged today to look at and assess the true value of the treasures in my life, namely my relationships with God and with those around me. These are the things I should be investing in, the things that really matter, the things that are the most important in life, the greatest commandments.
Amen!
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Seeking the Lord in the Midst of Pain
So this morning I felt like reading from Matthew's. I must say its hard to press into the Lord right now, but He does have compassion, mercy, peace and joy and I need all of those in my life. I am meditating on the following verses - Matthew 14:12-14, 22-23 NIV:
[12] "John's disciples came and took his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus."
[13] "When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. [14] When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick."
[22] "Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. [23] After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray."
I find solace in the fact that Jesus understands grief and the pain of losing a loved one. His first response was to withdraw, desiring to be with His Father. He needed time with His heavenly Father. He, however did not turn totally introspective, but kept his eyes open to those around him and when he saw the crowd he was moved with compassion for them. I know my experiences of late have made me more sensitive, given me a greater heart for those who are hurting and in need, and I am sure Jesus was likewise affected by the death of His cousin John. I like the fact that Jesus was unaffected in his ability to care for, love and heal the sick. He knew the power to do so came from the Holy Spirit anyway, and although Jesus was hurting the Holy Spirit was capable. I was reminded of Paul's statement that it was in his weakness that the Holy Spirit was strong (paraphrase of 2 Cor 12:9-10).
Finally after feeding 5000+ people, Jesus got back to His main focus, that of spending time with the Father. There is no substitute for conversation and intimate relationship with the Father. Jesus knew his relationship with the Father was foundational, and the source of all He said and did, and being in His presence and reconnecting was critical to His ability to continue moving forward.
I know that many people, after the loss of a loved one, will often feel like walking away from the Father, in some way blaming Him. It is a time of pain, and sorrow and in that place there is often anger and denial. In walking away from God though, we lose the opportunity to gain perspective, and experience His mercy and compassion. He knows the pain of loss, and understands our hearts like no one else. I find that in the place of my relationship with Him, I find one who understands me completely and can comfort me like no one else. I am choosing to run to the Lord, rather than away from Him in my grief.
I pray for all those that are in similar positions, that they might understand and experience the intimate love, mercy and compassion of the Lord. That their lives might be refilled with hope, peace and joy.
[12] "John's disciples came and took his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus."
[13] "When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. [14] When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick."
[22] "Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. [23] After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray."
I find solace in the fact that Jesus understands grief and the pain of losing a loved one. His first response was to withdraw, desiring to be with His Father. He needed time with His heavenly Father. He, however did not turn totally introspective, but kept his eyes open to those around him and when he saw the crowd he was moved with compassion for them. I know my experiences of late have made me more sensitive, given me a greater heart for those who are hurting and in need, and I am sure Jesus was likewise affected by the death of His cousin John. I like the fact that Jesus was unaffected in his ability to care for, love and heal the sick. He knew the power to do so came from the Holy Spirit anyway, and although Jesus was hurting the Holy Spirit was capable. I was reminded of Paul's statement that it was in his weakness that the Holy Spirit was strong (paraphrase of 2 Cor 12:9-10).
Finally after feeding 5000+ people, Jesus got back to His main focus, that of spending time with the Father. There is no substitute for conversation and intimate relationship with the Father. Jesus knew his relationship with the Father was foundational, and the source of all He said and did, and being in His presence and reconnecting was critical to His ability to continue moving forward.
I know that many people, after the loss of a loved one, will often feel like walking away from the Father, in some way blaming Him. It is a time of pain, and sorrow and in that place there is often anger and denial. In walking away from God though, we lose the opportunity to gain perspective, and experience His mercy and compassion. He knows the pain of loss, and understands our hearts like no one else. I find that in the place of my relationship with Him, I find one who understands me completely and can comfort me like no one else. I am choosing to run to the Lord, rather than away from Him in my grief.
I pray for all those that are in similar positions, that they might understand and experience the intimate love, mercy and compassion of the Lord. That their lives might be refilled with hope, peace and joy.
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Of Death, Separation and Eternal Destiny
This morning I opened my Bible to John 16:16 NIV:
[16] "Jesus went on to say, “In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.”
For me this is a timely word with the recent death of my Dad. The last time I saw him, I didn't realize these words from Jesus would be true, that in just a little while I would see him no more. However, that is one of the wonderful promises of eternal life in Heaven that we will see them again.
There is a peace in knowing, a hope that I will see him again that heals some of the wounds of separation. His earthly body has passed away, but He still lives hidden now with Christ in Heaven. Jesus said that He was going to the Father to prepare a place for his followers (John 14:2) and that is where Dad now dwells.
I am reminded of Paul's thoughts concerning death from his letter to the Philippians 1:20-24 NIV:
[20] "I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. [21] For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. [22] If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! [23] I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; [24] but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body."
Paul, understood the upward call, the eternal reality to which he was called. He was unafraid, even in joyful anticipation of that reality. He understood the richness of God, His glorious majesty and eternal love that overflows in that heavenly reality. He also knew that his time on earth was not complete, that he still needed to remain for the sake of all the people he wrote to. I guess I can take solace in the fact that Dad's efforts here on earth were complete, that his purpose was fulfilled. He had run the race and finished strong.
I am so grateful for the example of his life, a life lived with purpose and calling. I am hopefully a better man because of his example and life. I pray that one of these days, when I have finished my race, and fulfilled God's purposes and callings that I will see him again. I am confident of the Lord's promises and I will rest on them. My desire is to hear as I am sure he heard, "Well done, good an faithful servant!" Until that time I will honor him and our Lord with my life. I will pursue the Lord in relationship even as he did, and embrace all the glorious hope for eternal life.
Amen!
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Fruitfulness and The Kingdom
This morning I was reading from Mark's Gospel. I just needed to read some familiar verses and set my heart at peace. I love the parable of the sower and today it seemed applicable to me. Here are the particular verses - Mark 4:18-20 NIV:
[18] "Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; [19] but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. [20] Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop---some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.”
I think for me the point of focus is fruitfulness. The people who receive the word, but then allow the worries of this life to make them unfruitful are responsive to the word. It would be important to note that they still grow and mature, they just don't have any ability to reproduce, for that is what fruitfulness really enables. The whole purpose of fruit, whether it is grain or an actual piece of fruit is to reproduce.
The very next verses talk about putting one's light on a stand that it might give light, and I guess that is the purpose of Jesus' statements about fruitfulness. Our call is to reproduce that which is planted into us, which is the word of God, the message of the Kingdom. We are called to reproduce that which can be planted in other's lives, to do so our fruit must be spread or scattered about. When we are concerned about the worries of this world, we tend to hold onto everything, and have wrong perspective about what is important. We invest in things other than the Kingdom and, thus, have no real fruit (related to the word that was planted in us).
My encouragement this day is to look at the things I am investing in and allowing to concern me. I am encouraged to look at my life and choose to produce a crop, to be fruitful to reproduce the word of God that has been planted in me. I had a great example in my father, and I can work to produce fruit the remainder of my life even as he did. Amen!
[18] "Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; [19] but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. [20] Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop---some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.”
I think for me the point of focus is fruitfulness. The people who receive the word, but then allow the worries of this life to make them unfruitful are responsive to the word. It would be important to note that they still grow and mature, they just don't have any ability to reproduce, for that is what fruitfulness really enables. The whole purpose of fruit, whether it is grain or an actual piece of fruit is to reproduce.
The very next verses talk about putting one's light on a stand that it might give light, and I guess that is the purpose of Jesus' statements about fruitfulness. Our call is to reproduce that which is planted into us, which is the word of God, the message of the Kingdom. We are called to reproduce that which can be planted in other's lives, to do so our fruit must be spread or scattered about. When we are concerned about the worries of this world, we tend to hold onto everything, and have wrong perspective about what is important. We invest in things other than the Kingdom and, thus, have no real fruit (related to the word that was planted in us).
My encouragement this day is to look at the things I am investing in and allowing to concern me. I am encouraged to look at my life and choose to produce a crop, to be fruitful to reproduce the word of God that has been planted in me. I had a great example in my father, and I can work to produce fruit the remainder of my life even as he did. Amen!
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