Connect the Dots

We recently got Jacob a connect-the-dots coloring book to help him with learning his ABC’s and counting. He went through the entire book connecting the dots in a single day, fast learner I guess!

The events of Jesus life on the night of His betrayal are familiar to us all—maybe too familiar. Take a moment and connect some of the dots with me as it relates to Jesus and Peter.

• 1 – Jesus tell his disciples one of them will betray Him. they all said (including Peter), “Surely not I, Lord” (NIV).
  
• 2 – On the Mount of Olives Jesus told them that they would all abandon Him Peter spoke up and said, “Even if everyone else abandons you I never will” (GW).
  
• 3 – Jesus tells Peter that he would deny even knowing Him that very night. Peter responds, “Even if I have to die with you, I’ll never say I don’t know you” (GW).
  
• 4 – Jesus took Peter, James and John and told them that His soul was overwhelmed to the point of death. Jesus asked them to keep watch and pray with Him. I’m sure they all said they would (and especially Peter).
  
• 5 – “When he came back to his disciples, he found them sound asleep. He said to Peter, ‘Can't you stick it out with me a single hour? Stay alert; be in prayer so you don't wander into temptation without even knowing you're in danger. There is a part of you that is eager, ready for anything in God. But there's another part that's as lazy as an old dog sleeping by the fire’.”
  Matthew 26:40-41 (MsgB)
  
• 6 – Jesus returns to pray and again comes back to find them sleeping as before.
  
• 7 – Jesus was arrested, betrayed by Judas just like He had said. Peter follows at a distance and entered the courtyard. While there Peter denies knowing Jesus three times, even calling down curses upon himself, just like Jesus said he would.

Peter was confident that he would remain faithful to Jesus, but he did the very thing he said he would not do. Why? Did you connect the dots with me? Peter denied Jesus because of his lack of prayer. Jesus encouraged him to pray so that he wouldn’t wander into temptation. The hour of Peter’s temptation came that very night and he was unprepared to stand up against it.

How about us? We too deny Jesus when we give into temptation and willingly sin; we do the very thing we said we would not. How are we to overcome? Connect the dots; we need to pray. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.

Are you ready for the snow?

Yesterday evening we stopped at the grocery store to pick up a few things: breakfast cereal, milk, eggs, grape juice, bread, bagels, sugar (granulated and powdered) cake mix, chips and ice cream. We got more than we had too; we just stopped to get what the kids would need for their school parties the next day. However, as we expected school is closed today because of the winter storm; it’s a snow day. That explains why we got a few of the other things; with eight of us we could run out of bread and milk quickly.

The bad weather also explains why the store was so unusually busy; lots of people were there not just filling their carts, but overflowing them with enough to last for days for fear the weather would keep them at home for a while. With the roads snow covered and the snow still falling they wanted to be prepared for the worst.

"So stay awake and be prepared, because you do not know the day or hour of my return.
Matthew 25:13 (NLT)

With these words Jesus ends the first of three parables warning His disciples to be prepared for His second coming. Jesus will come suddenly and with less warning than a winter storm, or any other weather disaster for that matter. As Jesus said, “The Son of Man will come again just as lightning flashes from east to west” (Matthew 24:27 GW).

Of the ten virgins only five were ready when the bridegroom came. Only two of three servants were ready when their master returned. Yet in each case they had all been told to be ready, but unfortunately some were not and were therefore rejected by the one they had been expecting. This should cause us to do all we can to be ready for Christ’s coming so that we are not one who is left behind.

We have been warned to be ready for the Day of His coming. We won’t have time to say a prayer or repent of our sin when He comes. Now is the time to prepare; that Day will be too late.

At His coming He will separate the peoples of the earth like a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. The sheep, those who were ready will be on His right, the goats who were unprepared to His left. Untold numbers will be divided that day. Those on the right will be accepted; those on the left will be sent away. Which side will you be on?

"later Later!"

Language is a funny thing. You can say one thing but it can mean something all together different to those who hear it. For instance my brother left the following message on my phone today, “Call me later. I mean later you can call me, but you don’t have to call me later.” Now was he asking me to call him at a later time, or did he wish for me to call him by the name ‘Later?’ Which ‘Later(s)’ should be capitalized in his message?

As Jesus and the disciples left the temple Jesus called attention to the magnificent buildings there and said, “I tell you the truth, don’t be impressed by all these things because it will be completely demolished and not one stone will be left standing on another.” Outside the city Jesus sat with his disciple on the Mount of Olives and the disciples came to Him with a question.

"Tell us," they said, "when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?"
Matthew 24:3 (NIV)

What were the disciples asking Jesus about? I believe they were asking Jesus ONE question. They wanted to be prepared for Jesus to establish His kingdom and put an end to the Roman occupation. Remember Jesus had entered Jerusalem in triumph hailed as a king, and the buildings adjacent to the temple included the Antonia Fortress which was the center of Roman power in Jerusalem. The disciples just wanted to be ready to be by Jesus’ side when He took the throne.

Jesus heard THREE questions. When will these things happen—the destruction of the city and end of Roman occupation? What are the signs of your coming—your second coming to establish your kingdom? And when will the world come to an end—when will you execute judgment upon the living and the dead? His answer focused on the later two questions, and he ignored the first question all together.

[4] Jesus answered: "Watch out that no one deceives you. [5] For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many.
Matthew 24:3-5 (NIV)

Jesus repeats this warning to guard against being deceived two more times. He did not want his disciples (or us) to misunderstand him. Above all else we must not let anyone deceive us through anything they might say or do. Be on guard deception is all around us. His coming is near.

Practice What I Preach

When was the last time you heard someone say, “Do as I say and not as I do?” Such a statement could be made by people we call hypocrites. I must confess that I’m guilty of saying one thing and then doing the opposite. For instance as I teach Greg to drive I tell him to watch his speed, but then I drive over the speed limit. I justify this inconsistency by telling him that I can pay the fine if I get a ticket, but he can’t. Poor logic I know. I’ve also been guilty of telling the kids they can’t have ice cream during the day because it is for an evening snack, but you’ve guessed it; I’ve had ice cream in the middle of the afternoon.

With such a confession it could call into question other things I say. Am I guilty of being a hypocrite? My desire as a pastor is that what I say and how I live line up; I don’t want inconsistencies in my lifestyle to bring the message of God’s word into question. I want to practice what I preach.

[2] "The religion scholars and Pharisees are competent teachers in God's Law. [3] You won't go wrong in following their teachings on Moses. But be careful about following them. They talk a good line, but they don't live it. They don't take it into their hearts and live it out in their behavior. It's all spit-and-polish veneer.
Matthew 23:2-3 (MsgB)

What most people don’t realize is that Jesus did not oppose most of what the Pharisees taught. These religious leaders were the experts in God’s law and accurately taught what God required to live a righteous life. Instead Jesus more often pointed out that the Pharisees were hypocrites or as the NIV puts it “they do not practice what they preach.”

The problem with the Pharisees was threefold:

1. They elevated their man-made traditions and rules to the same level as God’s law.
2. They told people how they should live (both by God’s law and the Pharisaical law), but they didn’t always live that way.
3. Finally, the motives of the Pharisees were often wrong; they didn’t obey the law to please God but to make themselves look good in the eyes of other people.

Have we made the same mistakes? Do we live by our own set of rules; do we say one thing but do the other; do we have wrong motives for what we do? For me I want the answer to those questions to be a resounding “No!” I want to live by God’s rules consistently to please Him. Let’s be ‘people of the Book’ and live our lives to glorify Jesus our Lord.

Questions

The religious leaders were looking for a way to condemn Jesus, so they questioned Him repeatedly. With each question the crowds were amazed by the wisdom and authority with which Jesus answered.

One of the Pharisees who were experts in the Law came to Jesus with a question. “Teacher, in all the Law what is the most important commandment?

[37]Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' [38] This is the first and greatest commandment. [39] And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' [40] All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Matthew 22:37-40 (NIV)

Look again at the last part of what Jesus said; everything else in the Law and the prophets is based upon these. Loving God and loving your neighbor as the Law commands is the foundation of a life that is pleasing to God.

Jesus then seized the moment and questioned the Pharisees about who the father of the Christ was. The Pharisees answered David and Jesus follows up with this question:

[43] He said to them, "How is it then that David, speaking by the Spirit, calls him 'Lord'? . . . [45] If then David calls him 'Lord,' how can he be his son?"
Matthew 22:43-45 (NIV)

This silenced the Pharisees and no one dared asked Jesus anything else. Why? I don’t think it was just the wisdom or logic Jesus used to show that David acknowledged that the Christ was superior to him. Rather I think the Pharisees were convicted by their own sin because while David was guilty of sin, these Pharisees knew that he had kept these two law better than they had. David learned to love God and his neighbor more than any of the Pharisees had. This is why the bible says David was a man after God’s own heart. (See Acts 13:22)

So how about us? Will we continue to try to justify our sin, or will we be convicted by the simplicity of the Law as Jesus summarized it? How can we be more loving today? Let’s make our prayer, “Lord, make me an individual who loves wholeheartedly both You and my fellowman.”

Stir Up the Crowd

Perhaps you have seen pictures of ticker-tape parades in New York City. These city wide celebrations have been held for everything from welcoming home war heroes to championship sports teams. I’m sure the Colts were welcomed back to Indianapolis with the same kind of festivity.

Jesus entered Jerusalem with large crowds shouting, waving palm branches and even laying their garments on the road before Him. Jesus was welcomed to Jerusalem as a victorious king; “Hosanna to King David’s Son!” If they could have had a ticker-tape parade they probably would have.

[10] When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, "Who is this?"
[11] The crowds answered, "This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee."
Matthew 21:10-11 (NIV)

As I read this it makes me wonder, if Jesus were to enter our town today would there be the same commotion and excitement about His arrival? Would the TV stations and other news organizations be there to report it? Or would Jesus’ coming be overlooked?

While we could debate the possibilities of my hypothetical question, one thing is certain. Jesus does come into our towns and homes everyday and no one notices. How? Stay with me.

After coming into Jerusalem Jesus entered the Temple area and turned over the tables and drove those buying and selling out saying, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a den of robbers.”

God’s temple, His dwelling place today is not a man made building. We are the temple of the Holy Spirit (see 1 Corinthians 6:19). Jesus is within us. That’s why Paul says we are “Christ’s ambassadors” (2 Corinthians 5:20); we are the representative of Jesus to our towns and cities.

So why doesn’t the presence of Jesus stir up the crowd wherever we go? Perhaps like those in Jerusalem so long ago we too have turned God’s house into a thrift store selling second had stuff at retail prices.

Are we like them guilty of neglecting prayer? Let’s clean our spiritual houses and repair our altar of prayer; perhaps then we may stir up the crowd with the presence of Jesus overflowing from our lives.

Tunnel Vision

I admit it. I have tunnel vision. No I don’t have trouble with my eyesight; my peripheral vision is just fine. The tunnel vision I sometimes suffer from comes from being focused on getting my work done but not seeing the people around me. Over the years I’ve had to make a conscious effort to slow down and not worry about the task that needed done so I can take time to see what’s going on in the lives of other people.

Jesus didn’t suffer from tunnel vision. He and the disciples were leaving Jericho to go to Jerusalem. Jesus told the disciples that once there he would be betrayed into the hands of evil men, condemned to die on the cross and then on the third day rise again. If ever Jesus had the right to be focused on what He was going to do it was then. No distractions, just keep the work to be done in front of you.

As Jesus left Jericho two blind men began to call out for help and the crowd did their best to silence them. I must admit that if I were one of the disciples I probably would have told these guys that Jesus had more important things on His mind and didn’t have time to bother with them—tunnel vision.

Not Jesus, He looked beyond the important work of salvation (a work that only he could do) and saw these two men in need. Jesus called them to him and asked what they wanted. They said they wanted to see.

Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.
Matthew 20:34 (NIV)

Jesus told his disciples that He did not come to be served but to serve others and give His life to rescue many from their sins (see verse 28). But Jesus lived it out for us all to see. He didn’t just go to Jerusalem to die on the cross so we can be forgiven; that was the work that was before Him. Instead Jesus took the time to notice two blind men in need.

Are you like me and sometimes miss the big picture because you are focused on what is right in front of you? Let’s learn from the example of Jesus to slow down and notice the people who surround us. With God’s help our hearts can be filled with compassion to meet their need no matter how big or small it may be, and in doing so God will help us get the work done we think is more important than people.

Up-side Down or Right-Side Up?

A young man came to Jesus wanting to know what he must do to inherit eternal life, and Jesus told him to keep the commandments. He told Jesus he had done that since the time he was a child, so Jesus went to the heart of the matter and told him to go and sell everything he had, give it to the poor and then come be one of Jesus disciples. The young man went away sad because he had great wealth. Jesus had exposed the young man’s heart; he believed that he had kept the commandments, but Jesus showed him that his wealth had taken God’s rightful place as first in his life.

This is the Great Reversal: many of the first ending up last, and the last first.
Matthew 19:30 (MsgB)

What will it take for us to see things God’s way? Someone has described what Jesus said like this: “God’s kingdom is a kingdom upside-down.” If only we could go stand on our heads and see things from God’s perspective in His inverted Kingdom. Truth be told when we see things as God does we discover that His Kingdom is really right-side-up and it is our priorities that are topsy-turvy.

Our world values wealth and power, yet these things will not gain you a position in God’s Kingdom. If anything what makes you somebody important in the eyes of the world may actually keep you out of God’s Kingdom. Thankfully what is impossible for man, God can do. God can change the upside-down priorities of the world that our hearts embrace and turn them right-side-up so we can see things God’s way.

Tony Dungy and Lovie Smith will go down in NFL history as the first two black coaches to take their teams to the super bowl. But what most people don’t know is that both of them are also Christian coaches who live out their faith in the locker rooms and practice fields. They resist using the profanities and anger to motivate players. Dungy said, “I really wanted to show people that you can win all kinds of ways. It's a good thing to see guys have success when it maybe goes against the grain, against the culture.” Soft-spoken, kindhearted men who made it to the top—God’s way.

If God can help them see things His way and live their lives right-side-up instead of up-side down, then don’t you think He can and will help you too? Why not ask the Lord to change your perspective today?

Additional Charges

Years ago when the phone rang you would have to answer it to find out who was calling. If it happened that you were upset with the person on the other end of the line then the only thing you could do was to hang up on them. Now for a small monthly fee you can have caller ID and know who’s calling before you even answer the phone. I understand that if you choose you can even have certain numbers permanently blocked from even ringing in to your phone—again for a small fee. It is my guess that phone companies are making millions of more dollars each year from people who don’t want to talk with certain other people.

Holding onto resentment is easy to do. When someone says or does something to hurt us or those we love our blood can begin to boil. Bitterness towards others can leave a bad taste in your mouth for years to come that no breath mint will cure.

The only way to get rid of the chip on your shoulder is to be willing to forgive those who have sinned against us. Unfortunately, that is the last thing many of us are willing to do. Bitterness and unforgiveness has affected the human heart for a long time; we have always been looking for a way to justify our right to hold a grudge.

Jesus taught his disciples that they must be willing to forgive and be reconciled to others. Jesus had obviously touched a nerve because Peter came and asked a question trying to get off the hook.

[21] At that point Peter got up the nerve to ask, "Master, how many times do I forgive a brother or sister who hurts me? Seven?"

[22] Jesus replied, "Seven! Hardly. Try seventy times seven.
Matthew 18:21-22 (MsgB)

Jesus point was not that we keep a tally of how often we forgive others until we reach the magic number of 490 times and then we could be justified in no longer forgiving them. Instead Jesus wanted us to understand that there should be no limit to the forgiveness we freely give to others.

Jesus went on to show us why we should forgive others (see Matthew 18:23-35). Unforgiveness always costs us something. If we are unwilling to forgive the price will be greater than what we may pay the phone company. Unforgiveness will cost us God’s forgiveness too. Is that a price you are willing to pay for your right to hold on to your resentment?

Taxes

The last few days someone has been out along the road waving to passing cars dressed as of all things the Statue of Liberty. The kids asked why someone would be doing that. I told them it was an advertising gimmick for the Liberty Tax Office; it is tax season again and they are out there drumming up business for themselves. I used to dread tax time fearful of how much I would have to pay out in income taxes, but now it is a constant reminder of God’s provision—a reason to give thanks!

Peter found himself confronted by some eager tax collectors wanting to know if Jesus paid the customary taxes. These were not taxes paid to the Roman government but the temple tax paid by all Jewish males for the upkeep of the Temple. Before Peter had a chance to tell Jesus about it, Jesus used what happened to show His disciples that He was God’s Son.

Jesus asked Peter, “Who do kings collect taxes from—from their sons or their subjects?” Peter rightly answered that it was from the citizens and not the children that a king levied taxes.

Jesus said, "Then the children get off free, right? But so we don't upset them needlessly, go down to the lake, cast a hook, and pull in the first fish that bites. Open its mouth and you'll find a coin. Take it and give it to the tax men. It will be enough for both of us."
Matthew 17:26, 27 (MsgB)

Jesus wanted His disciples to understand that as God’s Son he was exempt from the Temple tax. A king rules over all and claims ownership of his kingdom; that’s why a king levies taxes. Jesus as the Son of God had the ultimate authority over all of heaven and earth; everything belonged to Him.

Nevertheless Jesus didn’t want to upset the tax collectors needlessly, so He used this opportunity to prove His identity in a most unusual way. Jesus didn’t reach into his pocket to get the money for the tax. He sent Peter fishing! From the mouth of a fish Jesus paid his tax and Peter’s too.

Now you know why taxes are no big deal to me anymore. Jesus provided for Peter and the Lord will provide for you and me as well. Have faith in everything that we serve a loving King who has given us liberty through His Son and will provide us with all that we need because we too are now His children.

AFTER THOUGHT: The proof is in the phone call I just received as I finished writing this. Unexpectedly someone wants to buy an air purifier from me because they've been told by their sister who bought one two years ago from me how great they are. That will be $600 to pay taxes this year I wasn't even counting on!

American Idol

Another season of “American Idol” has started and my girls are hooked; they want to find out who will make it to the top. I think they also enjoy laughing at people who try to sing but can’t. The premise of “American Idol” is simple; people audition for a chance to make it to Hollywood where they compete to be named the next singing sensation, to stand out from among the crowd and be a super star—the next American Idol.

What kind of deal is it to get everything you want but lose yourself? What could you ever trade your soul for?
Matthew 16:26 (MsgB)

You might think I’m going to down talk the “American Idol” craze after reading what Jesus told His disciples (people so anxious to be famous that they would do anything and what do they get for it all in the end that will really last?). Surprise, I’m not going down that road. Instead I want you to think with me about how “American Idol” and the dream to make it to Hollywood is what it will be like to stand before God on judgment day.

First, everyone performs individually. No one gets the benefit of a sound track or back ground singers; it’s just you and the judges who evaluate your performance—alone. Likewise we are all going to give an account for our lives to God and we won’t have the assistance of our mom and dad, our pastor or anyone else stand by our side us to help us make it into heaven. We are on our own.

Second, the judges evaluate the performance. I don’t know exactly what criteria they use on “American Idol” is, but one thing is obvious: you have to be able to carry a tune without holes in your bucket. When God judges your life He is looking for one thing—have you made Jesus your Savior and Lord. No matter how impressive your life may be, you can’t earn your way into heaven. Only a life surrendered to Christ will gain entrance into God’s kingdom.

Third, the judges’ decision is final, regardless of whether you agree with them or not. Folks may argue with Simon and the other judges, but that won’t change anything. God’s verdict is final too. And unlike American Idol there are no second chances; one life is all we are given and then judgment day.

So what will you give in exchange for your soul? You won’t impress the judge with good works. Nothing will help you bribe the judge and change His verdict. Jesus paid the price for you; He died to pay the penalty for your sin. Have you taken Him up on His offer? That’s the only ‘golden ticket’ to heaven God will honor.

Take Their Place (If You Dare)

I have often wondered how I would have responded to Jesus if I had been there at the time. If I had been brought up as a devout Jew would I have embraced Jesus as the Messiah or would he have offended me?

Let’s cut the Pharisees a little slack and imagine what it must have been like for them. These guys took their religion seriously; they did their best to try to honor God and teach others how they should live. Granted they were legalistic, but that’s all they knew.

One day they observed Jesus disciples breaking the law; the disciples were eating with ceremonial unclean hands. Because the disciples did not wash their hands according to the law they were unclean; this made them sinners and unacceptable to God in the minds of the Pharisees. Now how could Jesus be of God if He did not condemn the disciples for breaking the law; if Jesus were really a teacher showing the people the way to God, then He should point out such obvious hypocrisy. Jesus pointed out the hypocrites, but he was pointing at the Pharisees!

[7] Frauds! Isaiah's prophecy of you hit the bull's-eye: [8] These people make a big show of saying the right thing, but their heart isn't in it. [9] They act like they're worshiping me, but they don't mean it. They just use me as a cover for teaching whatever suits their fancy."
Matthew 15:7-9 (MsgB)

The Pharisees were offended (and rightly so in their eyes). Jesus went on to explain their faulty thinking and expose their false teaching. It wasn’t what someone ate (or how they ate it) that would make someone unclean; instead it was what came out of their mouth—what they said and did that made them unclean. Could I have ‘stomached’ Jesus’ teaching if I had been one of those Pharisees?

Now let’s stop play acting. Do I really hear what Jesus is saying? Do his words apply to my life today? Am I guilty of saying what I think people want to hear so they are impressed with how spiritual I am? Do I pretend to live my life for God when people are watching but do my own thing whenever I get the chance? Do I just use Jesus to make me a ‘spiritual big shot’ in the eyes of others?

These are heart piercing questions. If they offend you then maybe you need to let Jesus examine your heart a little more closely. How else might we be offended, or will we repent instead?

The Activity of the Day

Busy, busy, busy—it is so easy to fill our days with activity. With everything we have to do from day to day the demands upon our time seem to never end. If you are like me you long for a day to rest and do nothing, but when and if it ever happens we feel guilty for not doing anything. It seems that our identity is tied more to what we do than who we are yet it should really be the other way around.

Jesus was growing in popularity. People were swarming to see Him. On one occasion Jesus withdrew with His disciples to be alone, but when they got to the other side of the lake thousands had gotten there ahead of them. Jesus had compassion upon them and healed the sick; later in the day Jesus instructed the disciples to feed everyone—all 5,000 which with Jesus help they did with only five loaves and two fish.

This had been a busy day for Jesus and the disciples, yet it is what Jesus does next that is so interesting. Jesus sent the disciples back to the other side of the Sea of Galilee while He remained with the crowd. After the disciples were on their way Jesus dismissed the crowd. Jesus and the disciples could have stayed busy with the large crowd all night, but Jesus gave the disciples and Himself a chance to slow down and get away from the demands people could place upon them.

With the crowd dispersed, he climbed the mountain so he could be by himself and pray. He stayed there alone, late into the night.
Matthew 14:23 (MsgB)

Jesus let His identity define His activity. Everything he did flowed out of who he was. Yes Jesus was well known because of the things He did, but his activity did not define Him. He chose what He would do because He was the Son of God.

Jesus took time to be alone with the Father, to spend time in prayer. And Jesus showed His disciples the importance of getting away from all the activity of the crowd to be alone as well. If Jesus had not let His identity define His activity then the crowd would have given Him no rest—and no time to pray.

Taking time to be alone to rest and pray does not happen by chance. Something or someone will always be there demanding you do something. It’s your choice. You can let your activity define you, or like Jesus you can let your identity define what you do. You are a child of God. Will you take time to be with your Heavenly Father today?

At Home

This weekend we enjoyed having my sister Deb at the house. She had a weekend visit to be with her kids. As you might imagine, after four months of being away she was glad to be home for a couple days. She had a great weekend with lots of hugs from new friends, and lots of love from the family.

Jesus made a trip back home to Nazareth after being gone for some time. Jesus had been with his disciples preaching and performing miracles throughout Judea. Word had gotten back to Nazareth about Jesus and many people were amazed by “the hometown boy.” When Jesus stood to preach in the Synagogue at Nazareth people began to say to one another, “Isn’t this Mary and Joseph’s son? Isn’t Jesus the big brother of James, Joseph, Simon and Judas along with his sisters? Who does Jesus think he is preaching? Where did he gain such knowledge, and how can he do all these miracles?”

[57] And they took offense at him.
But Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown and in his own house is a prophet without honor."
[58] And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.
Matthew 13:57-58 (NIV)

Those who thought they really knew Jesus only knew about him; Jesus was so common to them that they could not see his genuine identity as God’s Son—the promised Messiah. Their familiarity with Jesus robbed them of faith and Jesus did few miracles there.

Sometimes I wonder if we are not guilty of making the same mistake. While we have acknowledged Jesus as our Savior, has Jesus grown so familiar to us that we know all about Him without truly knowing His heart? Has our faith grown cold?

Make it your prayer today that Jesus will be at home with you, that you can enjoy His presence throughout the day. But more than that ask Jesus to make Himself known to you, that you can know the depth of His love and the limitless bounds of His wisdom and power.

Lord Jesus, make yourself know to us as you are—AS GOD! And give us childlike faith to believe you can and will do anything for us!

A Handful of Grain

The Pharisees, experts in the Law, were at it again. Jesus and his disciples were found guilty of breaking the Sabbath law because they were hungry and picked some heads of grain to eat. Talk about nitpicking! In the eyes of the Pharisees the disciples had harvested and thrashed the grain and were therefore clearly in the wrong and should be punished as lawbreakers. What the Pharisees wouldn’t do to condemn Jesus.

Jesus answered their charge by reminding them that God did not condemn David when he and his companions ate consecrated bread in the temple, nor did God accuse the priests of breaking the Sabbath law when they performed their assigned duties working at the temple each Sabbath day. Then Jesus hits them, and us, where it really counts.

If you had known what these words mean, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the innocent.
Matthew 12:7 (NIV)

God is more concerned with the attitude of our heart than the fulfillment of religious duty. The Pharisees believed they were doing all the right things to honor God, but God saw the condition of their hearts, and their hearts just weren’t in it. They were doing what they thought was right, but it was for all the wrong reasons. When your heart is right with God you aren’t bound up in legalism.

With a heart of mercy the Pharisees would have known that the Sabbath law did not apply. Why would this law be set aside? First, the natural law of necessity would allow you to eat on the Sabbath. God did not restrict you from eating. Second, other laws would take precedence over the Sabbath law. For instance the law also requires that you love your neighbor as yourself. Having a heart of love for God and man is more important than whether you pick a handful of grain on the Sabbath. And above all, laws are subject to the Lawgiver. What really upset the Pharisees was that Jesus claimed to be the Lawgiver, to be God. When the Lawgiver gives permission no law is broken.

How about us? Are we guilty of being like the Pharisees? Do we make mountains out of molehills condemning those God sees as innocent? Do we withhold mercy and break God’s higher law of love? Let God cleanse your heart of prejudice and pride that blinds us to seeing others through His eyes.

Out of the Blue

The unexpected and unforeseen comes suddenly into all of our lives. What recently happened out of the blue in your life?

A mother buckled her eleven month old baby in the car seat last week but before they arrived at their destination she hit a patch of ice and lost control of her car; her baby was killed in the accident. A family loses their home through foreclosure because of a lack of work. A father and mother discovered that their unmarried daughter was pregnant. A husband confesses an affair to his wife. A drug addiction separates three children from their parents and sends shock waves throughout their extended family.

These are some of the things that have surprised people I know; good people who love God. When unanticipated events come into our lives it often fills our hearts with questions.

John the Baptist loved God too. He answered God’s call upon his life and preached repentance; furthermore John pointed the way to the One who would come after him, God’s promised Messiah, the Savior.

John’s preaching ministry came to a sudden end when he was arrested and put in prison. As time passed he questioned God. If Jesus really was the Messiah, then shouldn’t John still be out there preaching and pointing people to Him? John expressed his doubts in a question sent to Jesus; “Are you the one or should we look for someone else?”

[4] Jesus replied, "Go back and report to John what you hear and see: [5] The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. [6] Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me."
Matthew 11:4-6 (NIV)

John’s problem was much like ours. When the unexpected happens we often become self-centered and wonder why God has let us down. Will God come through for us, or should we look elsewhere?

Jesus answer didn’t solve John’s problem; in fact John would die in prison. Instead Jesus told John to stop focusing on his problems and look what God was doing.

Shouldn’t we learn to do the same? When we see what Jesus is doing all around us, then we can have faith to endure anything . . . even if God does nothing to change our circumstances. With an external focus, our faith in God continues to grow bigger than anything that comes out of the blue.

Denial

Did the Holocaust actually happen during World War II? History confirms the genocide of over 6 million Jews and other minority groups in Nazi concentration camps. Holocaust denial is the belief that the Holocaust either did not occur or was not to the extent described by historians.

As Americans we are accustomed to our freedom of speech. Individuals can make claims such as the denial of the Holocaust (to be Holocaust revisionists as supporters call themselves) and face no consequences for their claims. Surprisingly however, Holocaust denial is a crime and not protect by freedom of speech laws across many European countries; even in Germany an individual can be sentenced to up to five years in prison for speaking out against the Holocaust or parading Nazi symbols (see Wikipedia, Holocaust denial).

God takes what we say seriously. Small talk or joking is not just brushed aside as irrelevant or meaningless chatter. God judges every word we say because the words we speak reveal the true condition of our heart (see Matthew 12:34-36).

[32] If anyone acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will openly acknowledge that person before my Father in heaven. [33] But if anyone denies me here on earth, I will deny that person before my Father in heaven.
Matthew 10:32-33 (NLT)

Jesus makes it abundantly clear. If we tell others that we have made Christ our friend, that He is our Lord and Savior, then He will not be ashamed to stand with us before God. However, if we deny Him, if we are embarrassed to let others know we are a Christian, then He will likewise reject us before God and turn us away.

In the courtroom of heaven you have the freedom of speech; you can claim Christ as your own, or you can deny knowing Him. You might even want to call your claims ‘revisionist theology’ instead ‘denial.’ Call it what you like; God will hear every word. And then judge you by what you say. You are free to say what you like, but you must be willing to face the consequences for each word.

I’m thankful that I can say, “I am a friend of God” and know that in turn He calls me friend. I have confessed my sins and am forgiven by the blood of Jesus. Nothing stands in my way of be welcomed by Jesus because I have welcomed Him.

Oh Waitress!

I’ve been to lots of different restaurants, from fast food to fine dining and everything in-between. And at each of these I’ve had both good and bad service.

The bible tells us that Jesus did not come to be served, but to serve others. Think about that. Jesus doesn’t want to just sit at the table and make demands on others; Jesus wants to let you sit down so He can take care of you—more than that, He wants to provide for your every need because He came not only to serve but to give His life for you (see Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45).

Years ago, and what seems like a lifetime ago, I was a manager at a Bob Evans restaurant. I can tell you from first hand experience that people who sit at the table to be served can be very demanding (especially on a Sunday afternoon after church, but that’s another story for you to think about). Waitressing is not an easy job, and it can be especially hard when it gets really busy and you have a lot of people giving ‘orders.’

Now picture Jesus in a situation like that. The people have heard that He heals the sick, so more and more people are coming to him looking for help. Jesus is given no rest; instead one person after another ‘places their order’ and waits for Him to deliver.

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
Matthew 9:36 (NIV)

I’m surprised by this verse. I would expect it to say that when Jesus saw the crowds he was overwhelmed; how could he possibly help all these people. Instead it says Jesus had compassion on them. I think the key lies within that word; Jesus had com-passion.

Jesus was not just doing a job. Jesus loved those he came to serve. Jesus was not going to lay down His life simple to meet all the demands placed upon Him by needy people. Jesus gave His life because He loved us.

Chrysta just got a job waitressing at a really nice restaurant. I’m sure she is giving great service. I’m looking forward to sitting at her table some day soon; not for great service, but service from a heart of love for those sitting at the table.

That’s what Jesus has done for us; He serves with a heart of overflowing love. Now how do you think that should change the response of those sitting at His table? And how should it change the way we serve others?

Skeptics Transformed

It used to be that what you see is what you get, but that’s not so anymore. In our day of digital photography, just because you see it doesn’t mean it happened the way it appears.

I’m naturally skeptical. I question all kinds of things. I don’t want to simply accept things at face value; I want to know that what I’m told or what I see or hear is really the way it is. In the eighth chapter of Matthew we find Jesus performing a variety of miracles that will change the heart of any skeptic.

· A man with leprosy is healed.
· A Roman Centurion seeks help for his servant; when Jesus speaks the word the servant is healed at that very hour.
· Jesus touched Peter’s mother-in-law and healed her of a fever and she got up and fixed dinner for everyone.
· That same evening many who were demon possessed and sick with all kinds of diseases came to Peter’s house and Jesus healed them all.

Matthew uses these miracles to show that Jesus is the promised Messiah—the Savior.

This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah:
"He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases."
Matthew 8:17 (NIV)

As the crowd continued to grow, Jesus instructed His disciples to prepare to go to the other side of the lake. I’m sure that while the hour was getting late and they might have liked to have spent the night at Peter’s house, the disciples did as Jesus said. Once they were on the boat, Jesus laid down and went to sleep.

As they made their way across the lake a violent storm came upon them. Fearful for their lives they woke Jesus up. I’m not sure what they expected Jesus to do, if anything, but Jesus spoke to the wind and the waves and the storm subsided.

The men were amazed and asked, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!"
Matthew 8:27 (NIV)

I think that among Jesus’ disciple there were a few skeptics because this is the kind of question a skeptic will ask. "What kind of man is this?" They had witnessed the miracles of healing and now the calming of the storm. The pieces of the puzzle were coming together in their minds. Jesus was no ordinary man. He must be our Savior. Jesus must be God's promised Messiah.

Maybe you have had your doubts about Jesus too. Could what is said about Him really be true? Bring your personal ‘storm’ to Jesus today and ask Him to help you. Let Jesus amaze you as He calms the storms of life and change you from being a skeptic to a believer.

Look Up! Keep it Up!

I’ve been helping to coach the girls’ basketball teams at Warren Christian School this season. As we get ready to take the floor before each game we get in our huddle and right before we break our circle we shout, “Look up! Keep it up! Look up! Keep it up! Go WCS!”

“Look up” reminds us to have confidence in God, our team and ourselves. “Keep it up” reminds us to not stop; if we continue to believe and do the right things then we will be rewarded even when the other team out plays us. What happens on the basketball court is not just a matter of what happens on the floor, but what happens within the hearts and minds of the players—that is where the game is won or lost.

The same is true for life. Everyday is not smooth sailing; we will all encounter obstacles and hardships from time to time. When difficulties come it is then we must remember that it is not always what happens to us that matters, but how we respond in our thoughts, words and deeds to the adversity of life. It is during these times that we need to start each day by shouting, “Look up! Keep it up!”

[7] Keep on asking, and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened. [8] For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And the door is opened to everyone who knocks.
Matthew 7:7-8 (NLT)

Jesus does not just tell us to ask of God, but to keep on asking. We are not to just look, but to keep on looking—not jut to knock, but to keep on knocking. We must live our lives with determination and perseverance. Our faith in God must not waiver; it’s not good enough to believe we must keep on believing. God will not fail us; it is we who fail ourselves.

When our team is down by twenty points in the fourth quarter it can be hard to keep on believing, but we must win the battle within our minds and play through to the finish because we believe. Yet I’ve also noticed that sometimes the greater test comes when we are the team leading by twenty with only a few minutes left in the game. It is in these times that it is easy to be confident in ourselves and our team, but that is also when we may neglect our dependence upon God.

Whatever you face today, grey skies or blue, adversity or peace, maintain your faith in God and don’t quit. Look up! Keep it up!

Get the Windex!

We sat at McDonald’s yesterday and watched as a crew member washed the windows. I said, “Now there’s a guy with job security! With all the people coming and going, there is no way those windows will stay clean for long.” Sure enough when we left Jacob and I both left our fingerprints on the glass doors!

The truth of the matter is that if the windows at McDonald’s or anywhere else are not cleaned, then little by little the clear glass will cloud over until eventually you would not be able to see out at all. I remember one April during our spring cleaning the difference in the amount of sunlight that came into the house after doing the windows. Fingerprints did not mark the windows, but a fine layer of dust had accumulated on the surface of the window unknowingly blocking some of our view. Because the change was gradual overtime we didn’t notice the difference until after the glass was clean; I can only imagine how the windows might have looked if we had allowed them to continue to cloud over.

[22] Your eyes are windows into your body. If you open your eyes wide in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. [23] If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. If you pull the blinds on your windows, what a dark life you will have!
Matthew 6:22-23 (MsgB)

What is the condition of our ‘spiritual windows?’ What are we giving our attention to? If we have fixed our eyes upon Jesus then He will fill our lives with the light of truth through His word and Spirit within us. However, the more we let the things of this world capture our attention the more the light of Christ will be darkened within our hearts.

No it won’t happen all at once, but little by little the dirt will coat our ‘spiritual windows’ until eventually the light is gone and we haven’t even missed it. Let’s make it a habit of taking the ‘Windex of the Word’ and cleaning our windows of our self-serving pride, our wearisome worry and fear, our unconfessed sin and our burden of guilt along with a host of other dirt and grime (see Ephesians 5:26).

Don’t fall into the trap of not doing windows. Keep your spiritual windows clean so you not only can see clearly, but have light to make your faith grow strong.

Cookie Cutters

When the kids were younger one of the things that Susie always enjoyed getting them was cookie cutters. While seldom used for cookies, these were regularly used with the PlayDoe. The kids would cut out all kinds of shapes—even some very unusual ones.

The cookie cutters of choice around our house were made of tin. While these were great for cutting the doe they often did not withstand the hands of our children. Shapes would become distorted or even recreated all together. It wouldn’t take long until our cookie cutters were no longer perfect. Somewhere out there a tinsmith must shake his head and wonder what we have done to his work of art.

Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Matthew 5:48 (NIV)

Jesus tells us straight. This is not a suggestion, but an imperative declaration—a command to be obeyed. God expects us to live a holy life just as He is holy. I like how the Message Bible puts this verse.

“In a word, what I'm saying is, Grow up. You're kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you.”

We have been created in the image of God; if you will God is the 'Perfect Cookie Cutter' and we are made from His mold. Sin however has not affected the cookie cutter but the doe; God remains perfect, but His image within us has been distorted. So Jesus tells us to look at God’s design and be reformed according to His perfect pattern.

This takes a lifetime of maturity, but what is important is that we continue to live up to what we have learned. If we have finally reshaped one area of our lives to reflect His image, then let’s not let it again be distorted by sin. Instead let’s continue to reshape other areas of our lives to be like Him and live up to what we have learned.

Thankfully we don’t have to do it alone. God has filled us with His Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, to empower us to live a transformed life. With the Spirit’s help we can “Grow up” and continue to “live out [our] God-created identity;” the doe is taking the shape of the 'Perfect Cookie Cutter.'

Super Bowl Comercials and God's Message

It’s that time of year once again. Sports fanatics are anticipating the day; they are watching each playoff game hoping for their favorite team to win. Alas, but now only four teams now remain. Who will be the next Super Bowl champions?

Does it really matter? Isn’t the game just the break between the commercials? It’s amazing but true; I’m among the many people who just tune in to see what the advertisers have come up with this year. The game is just icing on the cake (we have even rewound the commercials to see them a second time).

What I find interesting about the Super Bowl commercials is how often the message changes to sell the same old stuff. Nothing is new about the product being sold; the only thing that has changed is what is said, sung or done to try to convince you to buy what they happen to be selling. Last year a 30 second spot cost $2.5 million! At that price the commercial better be good or you will have wasted a lot of money.

It’s not just advertisers who change their message. In our politically correct society politicians and the media try to put a different spin on the issues of the day. You might think you agree with someone only to discover that they mean something entirely different because of how they define their words. Who will ever forget President Clinton’s infamous answer to a question, “It all depends upon what ‘is’ is.”

While our society is continually changing what they say, I’m struck by the reality that the message of the gospel has not changed. God’s message is timeless because it is absolute.

[1] In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the Desert of Judea [2] and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near" . . . [4:17] From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."
Matthew 3:1-2, 4:17 (NIV)

Jesus didn’t try to package God’s message with fancy words or a new catchy slogan. Jesus’ message was the same as John’s, and theirs is the same message we offer today. In a word God is still calling people to REPENT; change the direction of your life, to stop living for yourself and let God come to your rescue.

God has an unchangeable message; if it’s not broke then don’t fix it.

Christ at the Cetner

Susie was teaching the Stars club at the church and asked what most of us would think to be a simple question. “Who can tell me about the Christmas story?”

Six little girls sat quietly for about a minute; then one little girl ventured an answer. “You mean about Ralphie and the BB gun?”

The Christmas story can be so familiar to us. Unfortunately not everyone knows the story of Jesus’ birth. Each Christmas we see the Christmas lights go up alongside snowmen and Santa with his reindeer. From time to time you will also see a Nativity scene set up in someone’s front yard. Yet do people even understand that it is the Nativity that tells the real story of Christmas? Do they even know who the baby portrayed there is?

Who are we to blame for this? We could point a finger at our culture that continually tries to push Christ out of Christmas, but I don’t think a secular society is to blame.

We could also lay the blame at the feet of the church. Deservedly so the church too often keeps our witness of the Christmas story within our four walls. When we do make our voices heard it seems to be a complaint or to boycott a retailer for saying, “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas.” I think that misses the point of being ‘salt and light’.

Personally I lay most of the blame at the feet of Christian families. The little girls mentioned above had families that knew the Christmas story, but had not taken the time to teach it to their girls. Have we forgotten that Christmas is not all about presents and parties? Rather than letting our schedules get more hectic and the pressure build, shouldn’t we slow down and remember that Jesus is the reason for the season?

. . . "Joseph, son of David, don't hesitate to get married. Mary's pregnancy is Spirit-conceived. God's Holy Spirit has made her pregnant."
Matthew 1:20-21 (MsgB)

The same Spirit lives within us as believers that caused the Virgin Mary to conceive. Surely the Spirit can birth within our hearts the passion to keep Jesus in our family Christmas celebration. If we don’t keep Jesus at the center of Christmas, how can we expect our culture to? What can you do differently to put Jesus back at the focus of your Christmas celebration? You’ve got eleven months to let the Spirit conceive something in your heart to bring to birth next Christmas that will keep Jesus as your focal point. Will you let Him?

Take a moment and share a family tradition that you and your family observe to help you keep Christ at the center of your Christmas celebration. Post your ideas by leaving a comment.

Learning Compassion. . . the hard way

I’ve spent the last 38 hours with Jacob at Children’s Hospital due to his enlarged colon cause from an extreme case of constipation. Now as a father of five, I have cleaned up more than my share of poopy diapers, but over the last day-and-a-half I’ve cleaned up more per hour than at any other time. In the midst of it all I’ve also spent considerable time wondering what the Lord wanted to teach me through this experience. I read today’s scripture yesterday, but God showed me what it really meant about 3:00 this morning.

He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
Micah 6:8 (NIV)

Last night Jacob had a ‘BM’ about every 45 minutes which I faithfully reported to the nurses so it could be checked and weighed (yuck). At midnight I finally convinced Jacob to try to get some sleep. With nearly 40 diapers behind us I woke up at 2:30 to the sound of water pouring onto the floor as Jacob stood by his bed and said, “I have to go to the bathroom.” Long story short I spent the next half hour cleaning Jacob up as the nurse cleaned the floor and put new sheets on the bed.

With the mess cleaned up and Jacob tucked back in bed I asked to talk with the nurse and her supervisor. I was angry, and I felt rightfully so. 2 ½ hours had passed without Jacob even being checked; if he had been changed even once we could have avoided the major mess and bath; he would have slept through most of the night (I might have slept better too).

I had been showing Jacob compassion all day. As I walked down the hall, God told me the hospital staff might need compassion too. I calmly expressed my feelings and told them how Jacob had slept through several diaper changes the night before. I didn’t ask for an explanation or blow my top; I simply asked that he be checked regularly the rest of the night. The rest of the night was peaceful. I can only imagine how it might have been different if I had blown my top. Thankfully I was coherent enough to listen to the Lord and “walk humbly with [our] God.”

If we are going to fulfill what God requires of us, then we must be willing to set aside our anger, even when we feel justified. It is not up to us to prove our point or raise our voices. We simply need to speak the truth in love. Are you willing to treat others kindly, to be forgiving and to do what God asks of you?

Prophets for profit

If you tune into David Letterman, Jay Leno or other late night TV shows you know what to expect; their goal is to make you laugh. Whether they are poking fun a politicians or others in the news, or if they are interviewing a guest they keep the mood light and the tempo up. If on the other hand you tune into any of the evening news programs you are not likely to hear much to make you laugh. Not much good can be found in the news.

Israel and Judah would prefer late night. Instead of TV they had groups of prophets that offered them just what they wanted to hear. Like a roadside show some prophets were simply in it for the ‘profit’ and not God’s word.

[5] Here is God's Message to the prophets, the preachers who lie to my people: "For as long as they're well paid and well fed, the prophets preach, 'Isn't life wonderful! Peace to all!' But if you don't pay up and jump on their bandwagon, their 'God bless you' turns into 'God damn you.'
[6] Therefore, you're going blind. You'll see nothing. You'll live in deep shadows and know nothing. . . [7]. . . They'll hide behind their reputations and make lame excuses to cover up their God-ignorance."

[8] But me—I'm filled with God's power, filled with God's Spirit of justice and strength, Ready to confront Jacob's crime and Israel's sin.
Micah 3:5-8 (MsgB)

Micah remained faithful to his calling to proclaim God’s word and not give in to the temptation to say things that tickled people’s ears. Micah wasn’t in it for the laughs but for the legitimacy of God’s word. Many of the other so called prophets of Micah’s day would you want you wanted to hear, but not Micah; he told you what you needed to hear. Micah could proclaim God’s word because he didn’t rely upon his own strength or imagination. Micah announced the truth in the power of the Lord.

What about us? Will our ears be attentive to hear God’s word proclaimed in the power of the Spirit even if it makes us uncomfortable? Or will we tune out anything that doesn’t make us feel good? Furthermore, are we willing to be empowered by the Spirit to not only speak His word but to obey it as well regardless of what doing so may cost us?

The High Places

I’ve never been selected to serve for jury duty. Yes, I have been to traffic court more times than I would like (but also deserved), and I have been in a few other courtrooms, so I know the basics of what goes on without needing to depend on “Judge Judy,” or the Hollywood dramas of courtroom proceedings.

While I’m not an expert or a lawyer, the foundation of our legal system is based upon truth—absolute truth and not the relative truth that fills our culture. For instance if I’m in traffic court for speeding, I would be silly to claim that while the police officer believed I was going 57 in a 35mph zone my speedometer and perspective of truth said I was only going 33mph; I would be laughed out of court. The standard of truth stands firm regardless of my opinion. Likewise in a trial witness are called to tell the truth, and while there are witnesses who twist the truth and lie, the purpose of cross examination, evidence and the jury system is to uncover truth. Without truth it all falls apart.

[2] Listen, people—all of you. Listen, earth, and everyone in it: The Master, God, takes the witness stand against you, the Master from his Holy Temple.
[3] Look, here he comes! God, from his place! He comes down and strides across mountains and hills.
Micah 1:2-3 (MsgB)

God took the stand to testify against Israel and Judah. When the Lord testifies against us He will tell it like it is because it is impossible for God to lie. God is a trustworthy and reliable witness. While some may try to refute God’s testimony, no holes can be poked in His story because it is true.

Why is God a consistent and dependable witness to tell the truth? Because nothing is hidden from His sight; there are no obstacles to hinder His view, nor distance to cloud His vision. God was right there when it happened and can tell it like it is.

Micah said the Lord came down and “strides across mountains and hills;” other versions say God walks among “the high places.” The high places can refer to the mountains and hilltops, but it also refers to the altars to worship pagan gods built there. Perhaps you have seen pictures of the Parthenon or other Greek temples; where were they built? On hill tops.

God was right there when His people offered up sacrifices to Baal and other false gods. The Lord was there to see their sin and would testify truthfully.

God also sees our sin; He was right there when it happened. How will we respond when the Lord testifies against us?

Lessons from the belly of a whale . . .

Benjamin Franklin said, “Anger is never without a reason, but seldom with a good one.” He also said, “Whatever is begun in anger ends in shame.” Over the years I’ve had many things make me angry, and whatever the reason, my anger made me do and say some things that I later came to regret. Anger can cause all of us to do and say some pretty silly things, things we would never otherwise do or say.

Jonah became angry with the Lord when God withheld his judgment upon the city of Nineveh when the people repented. Not a very good reason to be angry if you ask me, and in his anger Jonah certainly did and said some foolish things.

[1] But Jonah was greatly displeased and became angry. [2] He prayed to the Lord, "O Lord, is this not what I said when I was still at home? That is why I was so quick to flee to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. [3] Now, O Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live."
Jonah 4:1-3 (NIV)

Now just think about what Jonah said; if he had really wanted to die, then why did he thank God for rescuing him from the belly of the great fish? Jonah’s life could have ended as fish food, but instead God was merciful and gave this reluctant prophet a second chance. Jonah even vowed to make good on his promises because he knew salvation came from the Lord (see Jonah 2:7-9). Having been so rescued from certain death, why would he now be angry with God for rescuing Nineveh from the death sentence of sin which was coming upon them?

Yet Jonah continues in his anger. When God mercifully gives him a plant to shade him from the heat of the sun, Jonah is grateful, but when the plant is eaten the next day by a worm and dies Jonah is again angry enough to just want to die (Jonah 4:6-8). I must admit that if I were God that I would have had enough of Jonah’s bitter attitude. One lightning bold should do the trick and Jonah’s request to die would have been granted (and his complaining would have been over too).

But God proved Himself to be gracious, full of compassion and slow to anger with Jonah; the Lord did not end Jonah’s life but gave him the opportunity to learn from God’s mercy. Shouldn’t we do the same and learn to be merciful and slow to anger as well?

Not Another Fish Story

I have always been amazed by toddlers going through the ‘terrible twos’ or the ‘trying threes.’ How can a child look up at its parents who are older and more than twice its size and say, “NO!”?

[1] The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: [2] "Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me."
[3] But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.
Jonah 1:1-3 (NIV)

God instructed Jonah to go to Nineveh, located about 500 miles northeast of Jerusalem. A rising world power, Nineveh would become the capital of the vast Assyrian empire. However, the rebellion in the heart of a toddler is not easily out grown. Jonah looked up at God and said, “NO!” Jonah got on a ship and headed in the opposite direction; Jonah’s intention was to get as far away from what God wanted him to do as he could.

Jonah hated the Assyrians and grew up to fear them because of their violence and power over other nations. God instructed Jonah to “preach against” Nineveh. Perhaps if all God wanted Jonah to do was preach judgment and condemnation to the Assyrian people he might have obeyed.

However, Jonah knew that his was not just a message of doom, but also one of mercy and hope; if the people of Nineveh would repent of their sins then God would forgive and judgment would be withheld. Jonah’s hatred was so strong that he did not want them to receive God’s mercy; he wanted them to die in their sin. And as Jonah feared, once God convinced him to preach in Nineveh, the people responded with repentance and God was merciful and forgave them.

Jonah’s reluctance to share God’s mercy with the others grew out of the Jews unwillingness to fulfill God’s purpose to share God’s blessing with all people (see Genesis 12:3). Like Jonah, the Jews did not want the Gentiles (non-Jews) to receive God’s favor; instead they wanted to keep God’s blessing to themselves.

How often are we just like Jonah? Our heavenly Father wants us to tell others about His love for them. Aren’t we just like the rebellious toddler not wanting to share his/her toys? Let’s stop running from what God has asked us to do. Isn’t it time we tell those we may not like about our Father God who loves them?

Think About This

It happened again this week. As we were finishing our bible study on the importance of God’s word, we came to Hebrews 4:12 which talks about scripture judging our thoughts. That’s when someone asked, “But what am I supposed to do when thoughts pop into my mind? I mean bam, there it is, but I don’t want to think about that.”

That question is one of the most frequently asked questions I get from people. What are we supposed to do with the many thoughts that come our way often unexpectedly like a flash of lightning?

Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.
Philippians 4:8 (MsgB)

Paul gives us some wise counsel on how to handle our thought life. Make the choice to think on the right things, to program our mind to think upon thoughts that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy.

Years ago in a kid’s crusade I played the role of a ‘Joe Friday’ detective, Sam Saint, super sleuth; my partner, the Holy Spirit—you can’t see Him but He is always there. Like a police officer would have a suspect spread their arms and legs to pat them down to find any weapons or other contraband, we need to learn to ‘shake down’ our thoughts.

Before we dwell on a thought and let it take over our thinking we need to tell that thought to “Get up against the wall and spread ‘em.” Then we can pat it down. “‘Thought’ are you true? Are you pure and lovely? ‘Thought’ are you praiseworthy?” If we find out that our thought is carrying the wrong stuff then we arrest it and send it to prison. Only thoughts that make it through the shake down are welcomed into our minds for us to think about.

Martin Luther said, “You can’t stop a bird from flying over your head, but you can keep it from building a nest in your hair.” The same is true for our thoughts. Satan will bring all kinds of evil things into our mind, but we don’t have to let the devil fill our imagination with all the wrong stuff. We can stop a thought when we recognize it is not honoring to God and choose to think on something else.

Let it show!

I sat on my porch swing several years ago thinking and praying to myself when a young man with whom I had made an acquaintance walked by. The sidewalk was only about six feet from where I sat so I wasn’t surprised when he stopped to say, “Hi.” What did surprise me was what he said after I returned his greeting; “You don’t look very happy,” he said, “What’s wrong with you?”

I had not thought about the look my face as I sat enjoying the cool evening. Within my heart I felt at peace; no crisis, fear or worry was pressing in my thoughts. Yet my countenance did not reflect my heart; the expression on my face needed to change.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Philippians 4:4 (NIV)

It may seem odd to you that a man held prisoner and chained to a Roman soldier would encourage us to rejoice—not only to say it once, but to repeat himself for emphasis. I don’t imagine that Paul was ever asked by his guard, “Why are you so down today?” Paul had learned the secret of rejoicing in the Lord regardless of what his circumstances may be. Paul could live a joyful life because he knew that regardless of what may happen from day to day Jesus would be right there with him. Paul did not see himself as a prisoner of Rome, but a “prisoner for the Lord”—“His prisoner” (Ephesians 4:1; see also 2 Timothy 1:8).

Paul encouraged the church of Philipi to rejoice and be joyful several times. Like us they probably needed the reminder. We can so easily let life get us down—even in the little things, and we forget that Jesus has set us free from sin and death. The Lord is by our side and we can rejoice in Him always.

When that young man said I looked down, I asked the Lord to help me change the look on my face. I didn’t want people to think I was an unhappy grump. Several weeks later that same young man walked by again as I was enjoying the porch swing again. Again he stopped to say, “Hi,” but this time he added, “Boy you look happy tonight.” God had answered my prayer; my expression matched my heart.

Years later this is still my prayer. “Lord, help me to reflect the joy you have given to me.” Many people see Christians as unhappy and stiff. If that’s what a Christian is, I don’t want it. Jesus overflowed with joy. Shouldn’t we do the same?

Can I see your passport please?

Several years ago I had to get my passport in order to travel overseas. I didn’t think much of it at the time because my new passport would be good through 2004. Ten years seemed like such a long time back then, but now I’ve blinked and the years are gone. I only used it three times and now it is expired (and a much younger me looks up at me from inside its cover).

If you have never traveled to a foreign country then you may not appreciate the importance of a passport. It is the legal document that proves your citizenship. As we traveled we always made two copies of our passports just in case ours ended up being lost or stolen. When you are thousands of miles away from home, that copy could be the key to establishing your citizenship and getting back home.

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 3:20 (NIV)

For most people their citizenship is established by birth. Paul while born a Jew was also a Roman citizen by birth. I was born an American citizen. Through Paul’s travels he met others born Roman citizens, citizen who purchased their citizenship, and those who were not citizens. Likewise, I know others who were born US citizens, those who were naturalized, and some who are not US citizens but are citizens of another nation.

Yet you and I can have a dual citizenship. It is a citizenship we can choose, but also a citizenship that comes by birth—or should I say rebirth. We can also be citizens of heaven.

God gave his only Son Jesus so that all who believe in Him will be forgiven of their sins and become children of God. This rebirth by faith in Jesus makes us citizens of heaven.

God has given us His Holy Spirit as a seal that we are children of God (see 2 Corinthians 1:22; Ephesians 1:13). The Holy Spirit is our passport proving that we are citizens of heaven. We may be living away from our new homeland, but our passport will get us home where we belong.

As a citizen of heaven I have certain rights and responsibilities. I am given the privilege of prayer, to enter into God’s presence with the confidence that He will hear me. And as a citizen of heaven I am to live like Jesus and not citizens of this world. Can I see your passport please?

Doing the Right Thing

Sometimes doing the right thing is easier said than done. Yet regardless of how we may feel about it, it is always better to do the right thing than to leave it undone.

Awhile back we went to rent a video, but when we checked out we were told that we had a late fee for two other movies that were rented nearly a year and a half ago. I told the clerk I didn’t want the movie and would do business elsewhere. As we got into the van Susie said, “We should at least pay the late fee,” so I turned around and paid the $9 I didn’t want to pay and left again—this time never to return again.

[12] What I'm getting at, friends, is that you should simply keep on doing what you've done from the beginning. When I was living among you, you lived in responsive obedience. Now that I'm separated from you, keep it up. Better yet, redouble your efforts. Be energetic in your life of salvation, reverent and sensitive before God. [13] That energy is God's energy, an energy deep within you, God himself willing and working at what will give him the most pleasure.
Philippians 2:12-13 (MsgB)

Paul encourages the Philippians to continue to work out their salvation with the same obedience they had when he was with them. Yet the desire and power to do the right thing was not just something they would have to produce on their own. Paul tells them that the ‘want to’ and ‘ability’ to do the right thing comes from God who is at work within them. Underline this in your mind because this is the second time Paul has mentioned the work of God within our lives, so it must be important! (See 1:6).

It’s like our trip to the movie store. Had I been by myself I most likely would not have paid the late fee, and I would have felt justified in not doing so. When Susie nudged me in the right direction I paid it without arguing with her.

But why did I pay the fine? I cooperated with the Spirit of God working quietly within my life to do the right thing—even when I didn’t feel like it. The more we work together with God the easier it is to continue to live a life of obedience to His word.
What do you need to do that you don’t want too? Let God help you do the right thing, and remember when you do it to smile, because God is smiling back at you!

At the Water Cooler

At one time or another we have all been apart of a ‘water cooler’ conversation. You know what that is don’t you? That’s when a group of people gather together for a few minutes on a work break or between classes at school and stop to talk. Many times someone standing at the water cooler will begin to talk about somebody who isn’t there. Often what is said isn't nice.

What would happen if YOU are the one absent at the water cooler? How would your co-workers and friends talk about you? How will your family talk about you when you aren’t home? Or dare I even think it; how will people at church talk about you when you aren’t there?

[3] I thank my God every time I remember you. [4] In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy [5] because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, [6] being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 1:3-6 (NIV)

When Paul stood at the ‘water cooler’ of prayer with God he always remembered the people at the church in Philipi with joy. Why did Paul’s heart overflow with thanksgiving for the people in this church so that he only had good things to say about them? He lists two important reasons.

First, these folks were partners in the gospel with Paul; they came along side to help him do the work God had called him to do. Will people think of you with joy because you have treated them with kindness coming along side them to assist them; do you encourage them with what you say? Or will their thoughts and words be negative because you a make their lives (and work) harder by the things you do and say?

Second, Paul was confident of God’s work being done within the Philippian church; Paul could see God’s hand upon their lives. Do people see evidence of God at work in your life? Are you maturing as a believer? Is there a difference in the way you talk? Are you more patient, loving and kind? Are you demonstrating self-control or do you still have a short fuse?
If you don’t like what you have heard people saying about you, don’t blame them; take a look in the mirror first. Do you see in yourself what Paul saw in the folks at Philipi? If not what are you going to do about it?

God will answer your prayers!

In with the new and out with the old. Last year is now in the history books, and the new year is a story yet to be written. No matter what situation you may find yourself in, with God every day holds limitless possibilities. Jesus said, “Everything is possible for him who believes” (Mark 9:23).

The year ahead of us will have uncertain times. We will wonder what direction to turn. Doubt may flood our hearts when things don’t turn out the way we expect; we may even question God or even find ourselves arguing with God.

Abraham lived through such times. God called him to go to a land he did not know. The Lord promised to make him into a great nation, yet he remained childless. And when the child of promise was born God later asked Abraham to sacrifice him as a burnt offering. Nevertheless through all the uncertain times of his life, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness” (Romans 4:3).

In the days and months ahead we may also find ourselves facing impossible circumstances. Daniel faced the impossible. Nebuchadnezzar ordered all the wise men of Babylon killed when no one could tell him his dream and its interpretation; this included Daniel and his friends. Daniel asked God to show him the king’s dream and its meaning, which God did saving them from the king’s death sentence. Later in his life Daniel face the lion’s den because he continued to be faithful to God in prayer. God again rescued Daniel from certain death. And don’t forget Daniel’s three friends. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were thrown into the fiery furnace but God brought them out unharmed. In the same way when we face the impossible and it seems we have no escape God will likewise come to our rescue because our faith is in Him.

We will also all face storms and tragedies through out this year. Paul went through the storm and was shipwrecked, but maintained his faith in God. Paul later wrote to Timothy, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).

No matter what you may face—uncertain times, impossible situations or storms and tragedies—God will see you through. Believe God for answered prayer throughout this year because “Everything is possible for him who believes!”

God's Echo

Have you ever listened to your voice echo? I remember standing between our house and the neighbors with friends and shouting to each other. We did this not because we were angry with each other, but just to hear our voices echo as the sound would bounce off the sides of our houses.

An echo is the repetition any sound caused by the reflection of sound waves bouncing repeatedly off a surface. As you know the sound of an echo diminishes with each repetition until the sound can no longer be heard.

This week you could say that I heard God’s voice echo. Only each time I heard it God’s voice grew louder! I think the Lord wanted to get my attention, and He finally did.

As usual I began preparing for the Sunday sermon on Thursday. I believe God spoke to my heart directing me to preach a series of messages on the topic of blessing in preparation for Thanksgiving, so I followed the leading of the Lord and put together an outline and then manuscript of the sermon I preached last Sunday. In my time of study I became convinced that God wanted us to know that we are blessed. The intensity of this grew as I spoke; I heard God’s voice echo through the services, “We are blessed.”

On the following Tuesday I was at a pastor’s prayer meeting. As we concluded our time of prayer we were directed to go and pray a prayer of blessing over other pastors who were there. As I prayed with one of my friends I felt the Lord tell me to share with him what I had learned about the word bless. God’s voce echoed again, but louder, “We are blessed.”

I shared with my friend the three words used in the Bible that are translated bless.

• The first word “barak” literally means “to kneel” as before a king or sovereign to receive something such as a reward, promotion or honor.
• The second word “eulego” means to speak well of a person or call upon God for a blessing; this is a compound word using the Greek word “logos” which means word, so the emphasis of this word is upon the spoken word of blessing.
• The third word “makarios” literally means supremely blessed, fortunate, well off, blessed and happy; this is a blessing that is not affected by circumstances but is an absolute reality.

I told my friend, “We have knelt before God and he has spoken His word of blessing over our lives. God’s word is never empty, so we are supremely blessed regardless of what may happen in our lives from day to day.” God’s voice was echoing loudly.

On Thursday I attended a pastor’s conference with Pastor Jack Hayford. That evening his message was a word of encouragement. He preached from Genesis 12:1-3 in which God blessed Abram (this text also just happened to be one of the primary references I used the previous Sunday). Pastor Jack’s message concluded his message saying, “God wants you to know, the deal is still on.” I heard God’s voice echo again even more loudly we are blessed!

I finally understood that God did not just want to communicate to the people of the church or others that we are blessed. God wanted me to know that I am blessed. Thank you Lord for being willing to echo your voice until I finally really heard you.

Does Your Vote Count?

It’s the morning after and I have awakened to see that what I feared has come upon us all. The Democrats have taken control of the House; the Senate is still up for grabs with two races too close. In Ohio we have a Democrat as governor. My list of woes could go on and on.

My purpose is not to talk politics. Whether you are like me this morning and disappointed with the election results, if you are happy with the change in government, or even if you just don’t care I have a thought for you to consider.

While the media and political pundits spin the results and offer their explanation as to why conservatives either stayed home or expressed their anger with the Republicans, I’ve settled upon one truth that endures regardless of who is in control of our government.

As I drove the kids to school I heard the following song on the radio. It filled my heart with overflowing hope.

You are my supply my breath of life
Still more awesome than I know
You are my reward worth living for
Still more awesome than I know
All of you is more than enough for
All of me for every thirst and every need
You satisfy me with your love
And all I have in you is more than enough.
(written by Chris Tomlin)

As Americans we get the government we deserve; we chose it. Yet regardless of what may happen to the economy, which judges may or may not be confirmed, how the war against terror is fought (or surrendered), or hundreds of other issues that effect our lives, one thing remains the same. God is more than enough!

David wrote another song that assures us that God is remains in control over all. John tells us that it is a song that will be shouted in victory when all is said and done. God reigns!

God reigns over the nations;
God is seated on his holy throne.
Psalm 47:8 (NIV)

Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting:

"Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.
Revelation 19:6 (NIV)

I can face tomorrow, and the next two years with government leaders I did not choose with the same confidence knowing that God reigns. The Lord reigns over the nations, and more importantly I have voted for Jesus to rule over my life today and always!

The "Sought"

How do you think about people who have not come to faith in Jesus Christ? What words do you use to describe them? And would you talk about them that way if they were sitting across the table from you?

We had an interesting discussion centered around this topic last night. Perhaps our most common description would be to call these people ‘non-Christians’ or ‘unbelievers.’ I often make such statements in sermons. The problem with these is that they set up an ‘us versus them’ mentality; you are either a part of our group or you are an outsider. Would Jesus draw such a distinction to build a dividing wall separating people he died for from feeling welcomed to be included in God’s forever family?

Some of our group’s images were even more divisive. These ‘non-Christians’ are also thought of as pagans and heathens; one went so far as to say he would call them idiots and morons. Doesn’t such thinking reduce these people to nothing more than “barbarians to civilize?”*

Another individual pointed out that these people are ‘spiritually dead,’ their eyes are blinded to the truth. Someone else chimed in that these folks are ‘pre-Christians’ or ‘potential-believers.' While these descriptions may not seem to be as offensive (and even have biblical merit) how would people react to being labeled in this way? Don’t these descriptions still create a chasm dividing us from people Jesus died to save? Does this thinking reduce people to a non-person status of being nothing more than “souls with ears?”*

Jesus was called “a friend of sinners” (Luke 7:34). Rather than excluding people, Jesus was building bridges to people so they might be included. Jesus described His purpose like this:

"For the Son of Man came to find and restore the lost."
Luke 19:10 (MsgB)

Jesus told the parable of the lost coin, lost sheep and lost son which show how diligently these were each looked for and the celebration that occurred when they were found. Jesus is seeking the lost. God is the “Seeker”* and the lost are the “sought.”*

Yes as believers we are the ‘found’, but as we think of people as the “sought” we quickly see that dividing walls must be torn down because God’s purpose is to seek them out that they too will be ‘found.’

God wants us to join Him in seeking out the “sought.” This will require more than just a change in how we think about people who have not yet accepted Christ. Like Jesus, we too will have to become a friend of sinners.

*These terms come chapter 5 of Earl Creps’ book Off-Road Disciplines.