“As soon as I get caught up, by-golly, I am going to give to that organization!”
“I’m almost at the point whereby I can really give to those in need!”
“I wonder why the rich people don’t give more? If I had what he or she has I would certainly would be willing to give!”
We tend to judge others by there actions and ourselves by our intentions. And yet, it is not the amount that is most important - it is the attitude of giving.
I was struck by the Apostle Paul’s writing in his second letter to the church of Corinth. Much of his letter was focused upon - promises that the people within the church were making - their good intensions - and the need for the members of the church at Corinth to follow through - WITH ACTION! Paul was admonishing the people, “TALK IS CHEAP!”
Paul sent emissaries to the church to encourage the people to follow through with their good intentions. His focus was not so much upon those who were in need and required the gifts of the church. Paul focused upon those who “intended” to do something - but did not follow through.
“Now, about the offering that is [to be made] for the saints - God’s people [in Jerusalem] - it is quite superfluous that I should write you. For I am well acquainted with your willingness - your readiness and your eagerness to promote it. And I have proudly told about you to the people of macedonia, saying that Achaia [most of Greece] has been prepared since last year for this contribution; and [consequentially] your enthusiasm has stimulated the majority of them.... Still, I am sending the brethren [on you], lest our pride in you should be made an empty boast in this particular case, and so that you may be ready, as I told them you would be. Lest, if [any] Macedonians should come with me and find you unprepared [for this generosity], we , to say nothing of yourselves, be humiliated for our being so confident.” - 2 Corinthians 9:1-4
In the next verses Paul focuses his attention upon the blessings awaiting those who follow through and give; not until it “hurts” but until it feels good! The spiritual and physical fulfillment is immeasurable!
However...
Paul also paints a word picture of the dire consequences of promises not kept. Unlike heart rendering television commercials showing men women and children suffering from malnutrition, disease and exposure, Paul focuses upon the the consequences of “well-intending givers” should they boast of their intentions and then recline in their Lazy-boys never to accomplish a thing.
The point has been made. Perhaps there is a cause you have been considering but have yet to take appropriate action. Now is a wonderful time to enjoy the blessings of giving. Perhaps you have heard yourself repeatedly saying, “if I only had - then I would certainly give...”. Is there any reason why today is not the day you begin to faithfully give whatever it is you can give?
In Luke, chapter 21 verses 1 through 4 Luke records how Jesus looked up and noticed the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. We might assume that they did so in a manner intended to be noticed by those passing by. Looking closely, however, Jesus also noticed a particular poor widow who [we might suppose] humbly slipped in her two small copper coins.
“And He said, ‘Truly I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all of them. For they all out of their surplus put into the offering; but she out of her poverty, put in all that she had to live on.” - Luke 21:3-4
Consider the blessings we have today and willingly, readily and eagerly give. It is impossible to out-give God.
Enjoy the blessing!
Friday, April 23, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
In The Midst
“Then one of them named Cleopas answered Him, do you alone dwell as a stranger in Jerusalem and not know the things that have occurred there in these days?” - Luke 24:18
Perhaps in today’s lingo the verse might be interpreted, “HELLO? Did you JUST get off the boat? Do you have ANY IDEA what is going on here? Is ANYBODY home?”
Sometimes God just doesn’t seem to get it. He just seems out of touch with my particular situation. Have you ever felt that way? “Knock, knock, knock; hello God? Are you there? Are you listening? HELLO?”
Circumstances surrounding the resurrection often go unnoticed but therein is a wonderful microcosm of life.
The tomb was empty. The word spread like wildfire. Already the religious leaders were spinning the event to say that somehow the eleven remaining followers of Jesus (a few fishermen, a doctor and a tax collector) armed with fish hooks, stethoscope and calculator, overtook the fully armed guards at the tomb, rolled back the stone and removed the body of Jesus.
This was not just another execution. This man was known. He was front-page news! Whether or not the public saw him as a kook, a cook or the coming Messiah, the masses were aware of his death and burial. Now, He was missing!
We see that in the midst of sadness, Jesus was there. He didn’t come just in time; He was there!
“ And behold that very day two [of the disciples] were to a village called Emmaus, [which is] about seven miles from Jerusalem. And they were talking with each other about all these things that had occurred. And while they were conversing and discussing together Jesus Himself caught up with them and was already accompanying them. But their eyes were held, so they did not recognize Him. And He said to them, ‘What is the discussion that you are exchanging between you as you walk along?’ And they stood still , looking sad and downcast. Then one of them named Cleopas answered Him, ‘do you alone dwell as a stranger in Jerusalem and not know the things that have occurred there in these days?’ And He said to them, ‘What kind of things?’” - Luke 24:13-19
The disciples went into detail how this One they had hoped to be the Messiah was crucified at the behest of the chief priests and rulers, how He was buried and how a couple of crazed, hysterical women were driving them crazy with the notion that Jesus had arisen from the dead! This might be one of the reasons they were heading out of town! There’s a limit to what a person can take!
And then Jesus does something interesting. After He listens intently and lovingly to their hearts, He begins to speak to them from the Scripture revealing the many Old Testament prophesies pertaining to His death and resurrection.
“And Jesus said to them, ‘O sluggish in the mind, dull of perception and slow of heart to believe - to adhere to and trust in and rely on - everything that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary and essentially fitting that the Christ, the Messiah, should suffer all these things before entering into His glory, His majesty and splendor?” - Luke 24:25,26
After easing their hearts, breaking bread with them and reclining with them their eyes were instantly opened! This causes me to reflect upon my own slowness of mind and heart to trust Him; to know without doubt that He is here with me, already accompanying me as I walk through life’s trials.
The story goes on. Evidently, that very same hour, these men ran back to Jerusalem, CHANGED! Somehow the women did not seem quite so hysterical! When these two found the eleven followers of Christ they could hardly contain themselves!
“THE LORD REALLY IS RISEN, AND HAS APPEARED TO SIMON PETER!” - Luke 24:34
Masters of the obvious were they not? But I find that I sometimes do the same thing. I know that Jesus has promised to be with me and never leave me and yet, when He makes Himself unmistakably evident in my life, I say, “WOW!”
Even with all that had happened, as these men shared their story, Jesus stood right there in the midst of them and they were startled as if they had seen a ghost. But Jesus, patiently and lovingly revealed Himself, His hands, His feet - and they marveled.
This little passage in the book of Luke means a great deal to me. It tells me that when I focus upon life’s circumstances, indeed, I can feel disheartened. But Jesus is always in the midst! Jesus is always accompanying His children along the way. If I stop, and truly be honest about my challenge and weakness to understand and overcome through my own strength, He is there to reveal His presence, to calm my heart and to break bread (fellowship) with me.
Where are you along the road? In which direction are you headed? Out of your Jerusalem heaped with sadness and remorse? Or are you headed back, rejoicing, victorious, accompanied by the risen Messiah?
Ya know something? THE LORD REALLY IS RISEN - WOW!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Reporting Live!
We watch the news on every channel. We hear the testimonies of numerous eyewitnesses and see video footage from every imaginable angle. The evidence seems to be overwhelming - but the reports appear to be diametretically opposed. One event; a variety of conclusions.
These stories make for interesting conversation - but they seldom impact our lives.
There is one “news” event, however, whose impact upon every individual ever to have lived or ever to be born, is unavoidable. It is the, “Good News” event we celebrate as Easter.
You need not be religious to clearly see the, “on the scene as it happens” reporting recorded in the Bible - and the two diametrically opposed conclusions to the event.
Jesus was dead. There was no mistaking. The Roman guards witnessed his bloodied and beaten corpse removed from the cross. They, no doubt, observed the hasty preparation of the body for burial and armed themselves to guard the tomb, taking no chance that the body be removed in secret. Jesus was dead and buried. The tomb was sealed and guarded. End of story.
Except for ...
First Report:
"Reporting live, here at the tomb originally intended for Joseph of Arimathea, this is the disciple, Matthew. Earlier this morning this area experienced an earthquake, the magnitude of which is yet to be reported (Matthew 28:2). We do know that the epicenter appears to have been exactly where we are now standing.
Early reports indicate that the the heavily armed Roman guards, ordered to protect the sealed entrance of the tomb which [then] held the body of Jesus, were, in fact, terrified beyond their ability to respond to what can only be reported as extraordinary events.
We take you now to two eyewitnesses. This is Mary of Magdala and, the other Mary. Tell us, in your own words, just what you experienced.”
Mary of Magdala: “Well sir, this is all so overwheming! Mary and I arrived here early this morning; the sun was just coming up (Matthew 28:1). We brought spices with the intention of finishing the preparation of Jesus’ body (Luke 23:56; Luke 24:1). It all happened so fast! The earthquake; the stone, the guards fleeing for their lives; I don’t know where to begin.”
Matthew: “Just tell us what you witnessed, with your own eyes”
Mary of Magdala: “There was a man;”
The other Mary: “Yes! Yes!”
Mary of Magdala: “He was dressed in white; a luminous bright light!”
The other Mary: “I think THAT is what finally caused the guards to flee!” (Matthew 28:4)
Mary of Magdala: “We were frightened too. But this man, an angel, said to us, ‘Do not be alarmed and frightened, for I know that you are looking for Jesus Who was crucfied. He is not here; He has risen,as He said [He would do]. Come, see the place where He lay.’” (Matthew 28:5-6)
Matthew: “And what did you see?”
The other Mary: “WE DID NOT SEE HIS BODY!” (Luke 24:3)
Mary of Magdala: “The angel told us to go tell His disciples that He was risen from the dead and would meet with them in Galilee!”
Matthew: “We go now to the disciple, John for further information:
John: “Thanks Matt. I am still a bit out of breath having outrun my fellow disciple, Peter, here to the empty tomb. When we heard the news, we had to see for ourselves! And it was just as Mary said. The linen cloths were precisely as they where when they covered Jesus. Oh, and the burial napkin (or kerchief) which had been around Jesus head was separated from the other linens, but [remarkably] was still rolled up! (John 20:5,6) Matthew, as remarkable as it may seem, JESUS IS RISEN; HE IS RISEN INDEED! And I want to go on the record to everyone who reads this report:
“These are written (recorded) in order that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Anointed One, the Son of God, and that through believing and cleaving to and trusting in and relying upon Him you may have life through (in) His name [that is, through what He is!]” - John 20:31; Psalms 2:7,12
Second Report:
Matthew: “Good evening. We have breaking news for you. The armed Roman guards who fled the scene of the tomb, therefore breaching their assignment, face severe penalties, even death, for being AWOL. This reporter is hereby documenting that while Mary of Magdala and the other Mary made their way to the disciples, some of the Roman guards made their way back into the city.”
“While they were on their way, behold some of the guard went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had occurred. And when they had gathered with the elders and had consulted together, they gave a sufficient sum of money to the soldiers, and said, ‘Tell people, His disciples came at night and stole Himaway while we were sleeping. And if the governor hears of it, wewill appease him and make you safe and free from trouble and care. So they took the money and did as they were instructed, and THIS STORY HAS BEEN CURRENT AMONG THE JEWS TO THE PRESENT DAY.” - Matthew 28:11-15 [AD 33-36; AD 2010...]
Two stories. Two reports - as they happened. Observe all of the testimony. Observe all of the evidence. What is your conclusion? According to the Scripture, each of us must come to a conclusion. Each one of us must choose to believe and live by one story or the other. The choice is unavoidable. Which report do you choose to believe today?
May the glory, power, mercy, love, peace that surpasses all understanding and saving grace of our risen Savior richly bless you!
HE IS RISEN! HE IS RISEN, INDEED!
Happy Easter!
These stories make for interesting conversation - but they seldom impact our lives.
There is one “news” event, however, whose impact upon every individual ever to have lived or ever to be born, is unavoidable. It is the, “Good News” event we celebrate as Easter.
You need not be religious to clearly see the, “on the scene as it happens” reporting recorded in the Bible - and the two diametrically opposed conclusions to the event.
Jesus was dead. There was no mistaking. The Roman guards witnessed his bloodied and beaten corpse removed from the cross. They, no doubt, observed the hasty preparation of the body for burial and armed themselves to guard the tomb, taking no chance that the body be removed in secret. Jesus was dead and buried. The tomb was sealed and guarded. End of story.
Except for ...
First Report:
"Reporting live, here at the tomb originally intended for Joseph of Arimathea, this is the disciple, Matthew. Earlier this morning this area experienced an earthquake, the magnitude of which is yet to be reported (Matthew 28:2). We do know that the epicenter appears to have been exactly where we are now standing.
Early reports indicate that the the heavily armed Roman guards, ordered to protect the sealed entrance of the tomb which [then] held the body of Jesus, were, in fact, terrified beyond their ability to respond to what can only be reported as extraordinary events.
We take you now to two eyewitnesses. This is Mary of Magdala and, the other Mary. Tell us, in your own words, just what you experienced.”
Mary of Magdala: “Well sir, this is all so overwheming! Mary and I arrived here early this morning; the sun was just coming up (Matthew 28:1). We brought spices with the intention of finishing the preparation of Jesus’ body (Luke 23:56; Luke 24:1). It all happened so fast! The earthquake; the stone, the guards fleeing for their lives; I don’t know where to begin.”
Matthew: “Just tell us what you witnessed, with your own eyes”
Mary of Magdala: “There was a man;”
The other Mary: “Yes! Yes!”
Mary of Magdala: “He was dressed in white; a luminous bright light!”
The other Mary: “I think THAT is what finally caused the guards to flee!” (Matthew 28:4)
Mary of Magdala: “We were frightened too. But this man, an angel, said to us, ‘Do not be alarmed and frightened, for I know that you are looking for Jesus Who was crucfied. He is not here; He has risen,as He said [He would do]. Come, see the place where He lay.’” (Matthew 28:5-6)
Matthew: “And what did you see?”
The other Mary: “WE DID NOT SEE HIS BODY!” (Luke 24:3)
Mary of Magdala: “The angel told us to go tell His disciples that He was risen from the dead and would meet with them in Galilee!”
Matthew: “We go now to the disciple, John for further information:
John: “Thanks Matt. I am still a bit out of breath having outrun my fellow disciple, Peter, here to the empty tomb. When we heard the news, we had to see for ourselves! And it was just as Mary said. The linen cloths were precisely as they where when they covered Jesus. Oh, and the burial napkin (or kerchief) which had been around Jesus head was separated from the other linens, but [remarkably] was still rolled up! (John 20:5,6) Matthew, as remarkable as it may seem, JESUS IS RISEN; HE IS RISEN INDEED! And I want to go on the record to everyone who reads this report:
“These are written (recorded) in order that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Anointed One, the Son of God, and that through believing and cleaving to and trusting in and relying upon Him you may have life through (in) His name [that is, through what He is!]” - John 20:31; Psalms 2:7,12
Second Report:
Matthew: “Good evening. We have breaking news for you. The armed Roman guards who fled the scene of the tomb, therefore breaching their assignment, face severe penalties, even death, for being AWOL. This reporter is hereby documenting that while Mary of Magdala and the other Mary made their way to the disciples, some of the Roman guards made their way back into the city.”
“While they were on their way, behold some of the guard went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had occurred. And when they had gathered with the elders and had consulted together, they gave a sufficient sum of money to the soldiers, and said, ‘Tell people, His disciples came at night and stole Himaway while we were sleeping. And if the governor hears of it, wewill appease him and make you safe and free from trouble and care. So they took the money and did as they were instructed, and THIS STORY HAS BEEN CURRENT AMONG THE JEWS TO THE PRESENT DAY.” - Matthew 28:11-15 [AD 33-36; AD 2010...]
Two stories. Two reports - as they happened. Observe all of the testimony. Observe all of the evidence. What is your conclusion? According to the Scripture, each of us must come to a conclusion. Each one of us must choose to believe and live by one story or the other. The choice is unavoidable. Which report do you choose to believe today?
May the glory, power, mercy, love, peace that surpasses all understanding and saving grace of our risen Savior richly bless you!
HE IS RISEN! HE IS RISEN, INDEED!
Happy Easter!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
"Christian Militias?"
You’ve seen it on the local news, in news papers and in the internet, “Secret Christian Militia Arrested!”
The premiss defies logic...
If, indeed, it was Jesus’ will and purpose to form private militias, then He must be considered a failure. He recruited only twelve and one of those betrayed Him. Poor choice.
If, indeed, Jesus gave credibility to the raising of arms against those who would oppose His Gospel, why is Peter rebuked for having done so at the moment of Jesus’ arrest?
“Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus. Therefore, Jesus said to Peter, ‘Put the sword [back] into the sheath! The cup which My Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?’” - John 18:9-10
Luke, being a physician, takes the event a bit further and records not only did Peter cut off Malchus’ ear, but Jesus, in love and only as He could do, healed Malchus on the spot! (Luke 22:51)
No; no the lost, misguided, self-absorbed individuals who would adopt for themselves the banner of “Christian” while taking up arms rather than Bibles are anathema to the cause of Christ! Furthermore, it angers me with a righteous anger that such would make headlines and become, by their very claim to be “Christians”, thought to be typical of true Christians.
So that there is no misunderstanding, please allow me to refer to the Biblical description of a Christian:
”Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise - sensible, intelligent people; making the very most of the time - buying up each opportunity - because the days are evil.” - Ephesians 5:15-16
And the weapons of the true Christian?
“Stand therefore - hold your ground - having tightened the belt of TRUTH around your loins, and having put on the breastplate of INTEGRITY AND MORAL RECTITUDE AND RIGHT STANDING WITH GOD; having shod your feet in preparation to face the enemy with firm-footed STABILITY, the promptness and readiness produced by the good news of the GOSPEL OF PEACE. Lift up over all the covering shield of saving faith, upon which you can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked [one]. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword the Spirit wields, which is THE WORD OF GOD.” - Ephesians 6:14-17
The true Christian does not hide in the shadows and plot evil. The true Christian stands exposed as simply a sinner saved by the grace of God, ready to serve his fellow men and women, of all faiths, of all persuasions, of all opinions, so that by so doing, some might come to know Jesus and His love, and the true meaning of His great sacrifice on a lonely hill from a lonely cross.
May His love touch each of you. May the truth of His sacrifice on Calvary touch the very depths of your heart, and may Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection bring a newness of life to your soul this Easter!
God bless!
The premiss defies logic...
If, indeed, it was Jesus’ will and purpose to form private militias, then He must be considered a failure. He recruited only twelve and one of those betrayed Him. Poor choice.
If, indeed, Jesus gave credibility to the raising of arms against those who would oppose His Gospel, why is Peter rebuked for having done so at the moment of Jesus’ arrest?
“Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus. Therefore, Jesus said to Peter, ‘Put the sword [back] into the sheath! The cup which My Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?’” - John 18:9-10
Luke, being a physician, takes the event a bit further and records not only did Peter cut off Malchus’ ear, but Jesus, in love and only as He could do, healed Malchus on the spot! (Luke 22:51)
No; no the lost, misguided, self-absorbed individuals who would adopt for themselves the banner of “Christian” while taking up arms rather than Bibles are anathema to the cause of Christ! Furthermore, it angers me with a righteous anger that such would make headlines and become, by their very claim to be “Christians”, thought to be typical of true Christians.
So that there is no misunderstanding, please allow me to refer to the Biblical description of a Christian:
”Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise - sensible, intelligent people; making the very most of the time - buying up each opportunity - because the days are evil.” - Ephesians 5:15-16
And the weapons of the true Christian?
“Stand therefore - hold your ground - having tightened the belt of TRUTH around your loins, and having put on the breastplate of INTEGRITY AND MORAL RECTITUDE AND RIGHT STANDING WITH GOD; having shod your feet in preparation to face the enemy with firm-footed STABILITY, the promptness and readiness produced by the good news of the GOSPEL OF PEACE. Lift up over all the covering shield of saving faith, upon which you can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked [one]. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword the Spirit wields, which is THE WORD OF GOD.” - Ephesians 6:14-17
The true Christian does not hide in the shadows and plot evil. The true Christian stands exposed as simply a sinner saved by the grace of God, ready to serve his fellow men and women, of all faiths, of all persuasions, of all opinions, so that by so doing, some might come to know Jesus and His love, and the true meaning of His great sacrifice on a lonely hill from a lonely cross.
May His love touch each of you. May the truth of His sacrifice on Calvary touch the very depths of your heart, and may Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection bring a newness of life to your soul this Easter!
God bless!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
The Census
The United States of America is still [statistically] considered a Christian nation. Approximately 159 million people, 76.5% of the United States’ population, consider themselves “Christian.”
Where are they? It just seems to me I’d be bumping into a few here and there. I guess they (“we”) tend to keep our “Christianity” private. But, should we?
“As you have therefore received the Christ, [even] Jesus the Lord, [so] walk - regulate your lives and conduct yourselves - in union and conformity to Him.” - Colossians 2:6 Amplified Bible
This verse presents a clear standard to live by. I need to conduct myself in “union and conformity” to Jesus. So, let’s broaden our “census”. Let’s find out from the religious leaders of Jesus’ day their opinion of Jesus’ lifestyle.
“And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and especially wicked sinners came and sat reclined with Him and His disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, “why does your Master eat with tax collectors and those pre-eminently sinful?” - Matthew 9:10-11 Amplified Bible
“And when the scribes (belonging to the party) of the Pharisees,when they saw that He was eating with (those definitely known to be especially wicked) sinners and tax collectors, said to His disciples, “why does He eat and drink with tax collectors and notorious) sinners?" - Mark 2:17
Jesus confronted the religious leaders with their own words of condemnation:
“The Son of Man has come eating and drinking,and you say, “behold, a Man Who is a glutton and a wine-drinker, a friend of tax collectors and notorious sinners.” - Luke 7:34 Amplified Bible
The finger pointing continued long after Jesus ascended back into heaven. The Christian faith was new and growing. This rapid growth, with so many people of varying backgrounds and former beliefs, resulted in divisions. The Apostle Paul wanted to encourage members of the church at Corinth to stay focused upon TRUTH not opinion. He wanted to make certain they followed God’s law not the traditions of men and man- made laws.
Paul explained:
“For although I am free in every way from any one’s control, I have made myself a bond servant to everyone, so that I might gain the more [for Christ]. To the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to men under the Law, [I became] as one under the Law, though not myself being under the Law, that I might win those under the Law. To those without law I became as one without law, not that I am without the law of God and lawless toward Him, but that I am [especially keeping] within and committed to the law of Christ, that I might win those who are without (outside) law. To the weak (wanting in discernment) I have become weak (wanting in discernment) that I might win the weak and over scrupulous. I have [in short] become all things to all men, that I might by all means-at all costs and in any and every way-save some [by winning them to faith in Jesus Christ].” - 1 Corinthians 9:19-22
The “union and conformity to Christ” spoken of in Colossians 2:6 reveals Jesus’ open arms of love to those considered undesirable by the religious leaders of His day. Likewise, Paul’s primary objective was to share this “union and conformity to Christ” with everyone, wherever they may be.
How can a Christian do this and not compromise? Paul goes on to explain:
“Have the roots [for your life] firmly and deeply planted [in Him] - fixed and founded in Him - being continually built up in Him, becoming increasingly more confirmed and established in the faith, just as you were taught, and abounding and overflowing in it with thanksgiving. See to it that no one carries you off as spoil or makes you yourselves captive by his so-called philosophy and intellectualism, and vain deceit idle fancies and plain nonsense, following human tradition - men’s ideas of the material [rather than the spiritual] world - just crude notions following the rudimentary and elemental teachings of the universe, and disregarding [the teachings of] Christ, the Messiah. For in Him the whole fullness of Deity (the Godhead), continues to dwell in bodily form - giving complete expression of the divine nature. And you are in Him, made full and have come to fulness of life - in Christ you too are filled with the Godhead: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and reach full spiritual stature. And he is the Head of all rule and authority - of every angelic principality and power.” - Colossians 2:7-10
And so, while the nation counts lives, the Bible challenges us to make our lives count! Not in the pews, not in the safety of the church building only, but out and about - on the highways and byways. Loving and serving those whom Christ loves!
God bless!
Where are they? It just seems to me I’d be bumping into a few here and there. I guess they (“we”) tend to keep our “Christianity” private. But, should we?
“As you have therefore received the Christ, [even] Jesus the Lord, [so] walk - regulate your lives and conduct yourselves - in union and conformity to Him.” - Colossians 2:6 Amplified Bible
This verse presents a clear standard to live by. I need to conduct myself in “union and conformity” to Jesus. So, let’s broaden our “census”. Let’s find out from the religious leaders of Jesus’ day their opinion of Jesus’ lifestyle.
“And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and especially wicked sinners came and sat reclined with Him and His disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, “why does your Master eat with tax collectors and those pre-eminently sinful?” - Matthew 9:10-11 Amplified Bible
“And when the scribes (belonging to the party) of the Pharisees,when they saw that He was eating with (those definitely known to be especially wicked) sinners and tax collectors, said to His disciples, “why does He eat and drink with tax collectors and notorious) sinners?" - Mark 2:17
Jesus confronted the religious leaders with their own words of condemnation:
“The Son of Man has come eating and drinking,and you say, “behold, a Man Who is a glutton and a wine-drinker, a friend of tax collectors and notorious sinners.” - Luke 7:34 Amplified Bible
The finger pointing continued long after Jesus ascended back into heaven. The Christian faith was new and growing. This rapid growth, with so many people of varying backgrounds and former beliefs, resulted in divisions. The Apostle Paul wanted to encourage members of the church at Corinth to stay focused upon TRUTH not opinion. He wanted to make certain they followed God’s law not the traditions of men and man- made laws.
Paul explained:
“For although I am free in every way from any one’s control, I have made myself a bond servant to everyone, so that I might gain the more [for Christ]. To the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to men under the Law, [I became] as one under the Law, though not myself being under the Law, that I might win those under the Law. To those without law I became as one without law, not that I am without the law of God and lawless toward Him, but that I am [especially keeping] within and committed to the law of Christ, that I might win those who are without (outside) law. To the weak (wanting in discernment) I have become weak (wanting in discernment) that I might win the weak and over scrupulous. I have [in short] become all things to all men, that I might by all means-at all costs and in any and every way-save some [by winning them to faith in Jesus Christ].” - 1 Corinthians 9:19-22
The “union and conformity to Christ” spoken of in Colossians 2:6 reveals Jesus’ open arms of love to those considered undesirable by the religious leaders of His day. Likewise, Paul’s primary objective was to share this “union and conformity to Christ” with everyone, wherever they may be.
How can a Christian do this and not compromise? Paul goes on to explain:
“Have the roots [for your life] firmly and deeply planted [in Him] - fixed and founded in Him - being continually built up in Him, becoming increasingly more confirmed and established in the faith, just as you were taught, and abounding and overflowing in it with thanksgiving. See to it that no one carries you off as spoil or makes you yourselves captive by his so-called philosophy and intellectualism, and vain deceit idle fancies and plain nonsense, following human tradition - men’s ideas of the material [rather than the spiritual] world - just crude notions following the rudimentary and elemental teachings of the universe, and disregarding [the teachings of] Christ, the Messiah. For in Him the whole fullness of Deity (the Godhead), continues to dwell in bodily form - giving complete expression of the divine nature. And you are in Him, made full and have come to fulness of life - in Christ you too are filled with the Godhead: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and reach full spiritual stature. And he is the Head of all rule and authority - of every angelic principality and power.” - Colossians 2:7-10
And so, while the nation counts lives, the Bible challenges us to make our lives count! Not in the pews, not in the safety of the church building only, but out and about - on the highways and byways. Loving and serving those whom Christ loves!
God bless!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
The Wisest Of Them All
Who comes to mind? Who would you consider to be the wisest of them all? A ridiculous question; I know. How can we determine a single individual whose wisdom has impacted this world? Well, there happens to be one...
This person’s writings are prolific. No library is large enough to hold the volume of wisdom contributed. Quoted by every world leader since the beginning of recorded history this individual’s words have brought comfort, joy, laughter, peace, encouragement, reflection and resolve.
The wisest of them all? The name that follows so many writings, "Anonymous".
You may chuckle but as a young child I actually tried to determine just who this person was. I found the name “Anonymous” on so many writings and quotes I knew this person had to be the wisest of them all!
“Bad habits are like a comfortable bed, easy to get into, but hard to get out of.” - Anonymous
“A guilty conscience needs no accuser.” - Anonymous
“Discretion is the better part of valor.” - Anonymous
“Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car.” - Anonymous
“Good friends are hard to find, harder to leave, and impossible to forget.” - Anonymous
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” - Anonymous
“Write a wise saying and your name will live forever.” - Anonymous
"Anonymous". Their names have been forgotten. Their lot in life, unknown. And yet, there remains an almost overpowering importance to their having lived. Whether or not it was a casual comment by a mother to a young son or daughter, a thought shared by a minister from the pulpit or a comment made over a friendly reunion, the importance of that moment lives on forever!
So, I ask myself, how am I spending my moments? What positive words of encouragement do I have for those around me? Most importantly, am I willing to live a life of servitude - in anonymity, so that someone I will never know benefits? Just how will our words be remembered? What impact are we having upon those we love the most?
“Happiness comes through doors you didn’t even know you left open.” - Anonymous
Today, leave a few doors open and enjoy the blessings of God - while being a blessing to someone on His behalf!
God bless!
This person’s writings are prolific. No library is large enough to hold the volume of wisdom contributed. Quoted by every world leader since the beginning of recorded history this individual’s words have brought comfort, joy, laughter, peace, encouragement, reflection and resolve.
The wisest of them all? The name that follows so many writings, "Anonymous".
You may chuckle but as a young child I actually tried to determine just who this person was. I found the name “Anonymous” on so many writings and quotes I knew this person had to be the wisest of them all!
“Bad habits are like a comfortable bed, easy to get into, but hard to get out of.” - Anonymous
“A guilty conscience needs no accuser.” - Anonymous
“Discretion is the better part of valor.” - Anonymous
“Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car.” - Anonymous
“Good friends are hard to find, harder to leave, and impossible to forget.” - Anonymous
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” - Anonymous
“Write a wise saying and your name will live forever.” - Anonymous
"Anonymous". Their names have been forgotten. Their lot in life, unknown. And yet, there remains an almost overpowering importance to their having lived. Whether or not it was a casual comment by a mother to a young son or daughter, a thought shared by a minister from the pulpit or a comment made over a friendly reunion, the importance of that moment lives on forever!
So, I ask myself, how am I spending my moments? What positive words of encouragement do I have for those around me? Most importantly, am I willing to live a life of servitude - in anonymity, so that someone I will never know benefits? Just how will our words be remembered? What impact are we having upon those we love the most?
“Happiness comes through doors you didn’t even know you left open.” - Anonymous
Today, leave a few doors open and enjoy the blessings of God - while being a blessing to someone on His behalf!
God bless!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
The Arts
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus, unto good works; which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” - Ephesians 2:8,9
For most of my life I read this verse as just one more burdensome command designed to make me feel hopelessly guilty. God to me was, more or less, a tyrant. Oh, I would never admit that to anyone - not even to God. But because of my legalistic and ridged image of Him every verse served to beat me down and cause me to forever be ashamed of who I was.
From this beaten position it was quite easy to allow hidden feelings of shame and worthlessness to be wrongly confirmed by the harsh words and/or actions of [perhaps] well meaning individuals. They all too often would offer what they deemed to be “tough love” when I needed His love.
In recent years I have come to understand this verse quite differently. Please allow me to digress just a bit to make a point that I trust will touch your heart today.
I love the arts. I love all the various forms of art. The very creative process of ideation becoming reality touches my heart. I love sculpture, theater, opera, ballet, symphony painting and poetry.
Poetry. Come to think of it, every form of art has it’s own poetic rhythm and rhyme. Whether by brush, or by dramatic reading; by instrument or by voice, there is beauty in creative processes and finished pieces. Of course, one might at times be critical of certain works of art. Clearly there are those who might prefer one form of art over another. But no one can deny the mark of genius when an artist transfers power and purpose from a mere idea into a tangible reality that touches the hearts of those who hear, see and experience their finished work.
And so I return to the passage of Scripture that opened today’s BLOG.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus, unto good works; which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” - Ephesians 2:8,9
The word interpreted “workmanship” is actually the word, “POEM”. Read the verse again but personalize it with me:
“For I AM HIS POEM, created in Christ Jesus, unto good works; which GOD HIMSELF, THE ARTIST, THE CREATOR, THE POET hath before ordained that I SHOULD BE AND SHOULD FULLY ENJOY BEING BECAUSE I BRING HAPPINESS AND GLORY TO HIM.”
Dear friend, by the very power of Jesus Christ’s death, burial and resurrection we become something we never were before. We become a new creation, HIS NEW POEM; A ONE OF A KIND WORK OF ART! By His loving power and grace He wipes the canvas clean and creates the perfect poetic expression of His desire. He molds the clay to the image He wishes to enjoy. He writes the song that expresses His love. He writes a poem of such depth and value that it brings about the will of God exactly as He designed it to be.
His work is not open for the review of the critic. His work is complete and perfect. King David realized this when he said:
“I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well!” - Psalm 139: 14
And so this moment, this day, begin to realize and enjoy the poem God has written in you. You have value far beyond the work of the masters stored in the worlds finest museums. You have the value of the Master who is preparing a place for His finished work throughout eternity!
God bless!
For most of my life I read this verse as just one more burdensome command designed to make me feel hopelessly guilty. God to me was, more or less, a tyrant. Oh, I would never admit that to anyone - not even to God. But because of my legalistic and ridged image of Him every verse served to beat me down and cause me to forever be ashamed of who I was.
From this beaten position it was quite easy to allow hidden feelings of shame and worthlessness to be wrongly confirmed by the harsh words and/or actions of [perhaps] well meaning individuals. They all too often would offer what they deemed to be “tough love” when I needed His love.
In recent years I have come to understand this verse quite differently. Please allow me to digress just a bit to make a point that I trust will touch your heart today.
I love the arts. I love all the various forms of art. The very creative process of ideation becoming reality touches my heart. I love sculpture, theater, opera, ballet, symphony painting and poetry.
Poetry. Come to think of it, every form of art has it’s own poetic rhythm and rhyme. Whether by brush, or by dramatic reading; by instrument or by voice, there is beauty in creative processes and finished pieces. Of course, one might at times be critical of certain works of art. Clearly there are those who might prefer one form of art over another. But no one can deny the mark of genius when an artist transfers power and purpose from a mere idea into a tangible reality that touches the hearts of those who hear, see and experience their finished work.
And so I return to the passage of Scripture that opened today’s BLOG.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus, unto good works; which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” - Ephesians 2:8,9
The word interpreted “workmanship” is actually the word, “POEM”. Read the verse again but personalize it with me:
“For I AM HIS POEM, created in Christ Jesus, unto good works; which GOD HIMSELF, THE ARTIST, THE CREATOR, THE POET hath before ordained that I SHOULD BE AND SHOULD FULLY ENJOY BEING BECAUSE I BRING HAPPINESS AND GLORY TO HIM.”
Dear friend, by the very power of Jesus Christ’s death, burial and resurrection we become something we never were before. We become a new creation, HIS NEW POEM; A ONE OF A KIND WORK OF ART! By His loving power and grace He wipes the canvas clean and creates the perfect poetic expression of His desire. He molds the clay to the image He wishes to enjoy. He writes the song that expresses His love. He writes a poem of such depth and value that it brings about the will of God exactly as He designed it to be.
His work is not open for the review of the critic. His work is complete and perfect. King David realized this when he said:
“I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well!” - Psalm 139: 14
And so this moment, this day, begin to realize and enjoy the poem God has written in you. You have value far beyond the work of the masters stored in the worlds finest museums. You have the value of the Master who is preparing a place for His finished work throughout eternity!
God bless!
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