Our Most Important Meal of 2020

As this year ends, we look at our schedules that have been decimated by Covid-19. No concerts, no sporting events, no movies, no large gatherings. Many of us want to skip to the end of 2020 already and move on with a fresh start in 2021.

Let me suggest that there is one very important meal for us all to have, and we don't have to wait until the new year to have it. This meal will certainly be THE most important meal for each of us, not just in 2020, but in all of our lives. 

Image by JamesDeMers from Pixabay 

Revelation 3:20

"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me."

What a wonderful promise from Scripture! 

So, who's ready for this meal? 

Remember, the food isn't going to be what is most important, and the phone needs to be nowhere in sight. 

Each of us will be opening that door and accepting an invitation from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

He will sit across the table from us. We will nervously look down at our plates at first, and then He will call us by name, and with caring eyes and a soothing voice say, "How are you doing?"

No schedules. No distractions. No interruptions. 

"Well," we will start to cheerfully reply ready to fill the room with stories of our latest exploits. But as He reaches for the water glass and we catch a glimpse of a scar, the magnitude of the moment actually hits us. We look down and just fall silent. 

Our guest asks the question again, "How are you doing?"

Image by CJ from Pixabay 

We get the feeling that He doesn't necessarily want a report on the busy-ness that fills up our days. He wants us to be real. He wants to be personal. He wants a one-on-one relationship with each one of us. He wants to know us and more importantly, for us to know Him. 

This is going to be a memorable meal. 

This is going to be an important meal. 

This is going to be our most important meal.

This needs to be an individual meal. I am going to continue my own meal alone with Jesus. Please, open your own door and have your own important meal. No schedules. No distractions. No interruptions. 

Heavenly Father, I confess that I am a sinner in need of a Savior. Thank you for sending Jesus to sacrifice Himself for the sins of the world. Thank you for the promises contained in the Bible. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

John 3:16

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (NIV)

A Christmas Story: Do You See What I See?

 A Christmas Story:

Do You See What I See?

The Goodness of a Church Revealed

    I stand hesitantly and nervously at the doors of the church on that Christmas Eve, reluctant to step inside. 

    What was I thinking? I don't belong here. 

    The traffic had caused me to be a little late, so I walk in alone without a chance of just "blending in."

    I take a deep breath. I sigh and tug the door open. A stranger greets me with a smile and hands a paper to me. I clutch it and take in my surroundings.

    I hear the singing of a somewhat familiar hymn echoing from the main sanctuary. I follow the music.

    The seats in the back look pretty full, and at first glance, I don't see one that I can slip into unnoticed. I continue to glance around, and I actually almost consider leaving when I see a doorway that leads to some stairs.

    I take a chance and quietly take the stairs and find an empty balcony area.

What a relief! I can technically tell my parents I attended church this Christmas, and I can even relay details of the sermon, but I can take it all in by myself. I don't have to see the "look" from the regular church-goers. I start to relax as the song comes to an end and the music fades. I settle into my seat for the message.

    The message is from Romans. I think back to my Sunday school days, now far in my past, and I can't recall Romans. I do remember Daniel and the lions, David and the slingshot, and Jonah and the whale. The ark...I remember the building of an ark and animals going in two by two. But Romans? I don't remember anything about Romans.

    I try to focus on the words, but my mind wanders as I begin to look around at the congregation sitting almost shoulder to shoulder below me. The view from the balcony allows a unique angle. I examine the postures and the body language. I scrutinize the clothing and the demeanor of the "family groups." Everyone appears happy and at peace in their easy lives.

    As I explore the congregation, the past few years of my life come to mind. I've made so many mistakes. Costly mistakes. I've hurt myself and others in so many ways...I begin to feel more uncomfortable.

    I can't explain the discomfort, but I suddenly feel guilty, unworthy, and unwelcome. As I realize that I don't fit with these people, my eyes start to tear up, and I begin to gather my things to go.

    Someone that I hadn't noticed before had slipped into the pew next to me. He gives me a kind look and a nod. I sigh and look back down at the congregation. The pastor's words are echoing around me, and I try again to tune in to what is being said, "This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."

    I shake my head. "...redemption that came by Christ Jesus..." This isn't about me. I look longingly down at the congregation again. This is about those people, the good people in the world. These good people making good choices and having good lives. This is not about me. This is not for me. My eyes well up again. I hang my head and sniffle. 

      The figure next to me, nudges me, and softly says, "Look again. Do you see what I see?"

This time as I look down at the clusters of people, all of those family groups, I see something appearing across the shoulders of each member of the congregation. The images come into focus, and I am just able to squint and make out the images as words appearing across the backs of the individuals.

    Across one gentleman's shoulders I read Glutton; the woman next to him has the word Envy across her back. I see Addict across the shoulders of several in the congregation, ranging from the elderly to even a young boy who couldn't be more than ten who is currently engrossed in a video game on a cellphone.

    I continue reading the labels and trying to understand: Pride. Idolatry. Thief. Murder. Bitterness. Sexually Immoral. Anger. Greed. Liar. Alcoholic. Each person has at least one of these strange labels. Even the family groups that I thought had such perfect lives have labels. Old and young. Adultery. Gossip. Wicked. Sluggard. Gambler. Selfish Ambition. Slander. I shake my head in confusion and disbelief. 

    I turn to the figure next to me for an explanation, and as his kind eyes meet mine, he softly says, "Do you still think that you don't belong?"

    Stunned that this stranger could read my thoughts, I shift in my seat. "Umm...but I--" I begin, hesitant to reveal the details of my own story.

    "For all have sinned," the stranger interrupts me, "and have fallen short of the glory of God. This Scripture is accurate and applies to all."

    I look down at my hands, take a deep breath, and as the confidence in me builds, I look up again to see the labels have disappeared. Stunned, I turn back to the stranger for an explanation.

    "Almighty God doesn't actually 'label' our sins; that was revealed for your benefit. You see, the words spoken earlier are true, and are straight from the Almighty: 'all have sinned,' all." He lifts my chin with a scarred hand. looks deep into my eyes, and says, "All." After a brief pause he adds, "I come that they--and you--may have life and have it abundantly."

    I look back over the congregation, and while they haven't moved or really changed at all, I see each of them very differently. I didn't remember any of the specific labels that had appeared, well, except for the boy still busy with his cellphone. As I try to look again at the faces when folks turn, the looks I had seen before appear so different now. They each seem familiar somehow, and less threatening and judgmental. They seem--just like me.

    I had assumed that everyone was full of goodness but me. I had assumed that God's goodness was for them, and not for me. I had assumed that I didn't belong amidst the goodness around me. The actual goodness within that church that Christmas Eve was the goodness revealed in the Good News of Jesus Christ.

    My visit to the church that Christmas Eve and the words of a stranger in church that day revealed to me that I was right where I belonged. That church was just like any church, and I was surrounded by people who belonged alongside me.

While this Christmas Eve did momentarily reveal some surprising labels,

it ultimately revealed to me the goodness of God within a church.

Almighty God, Great Mystery, Thank you for Jesus. Help me to realize that your grace applies to all and that I am included in all. Help me to ignore the world's labels and seek your righteousness. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Advent: Time for the BEST (5 of 5)

     Advent: Time for the B.E.S.T

T: Teacher

John the Baptist was Bold, he was Enlightened, 
he had the heart of a Servant, and finally, he was a Teacher.

Image by Pixabay

"The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River." Mark 1: 5

So, clearly John made an impact. The message he was sharing resonated enough that people were drawn to him. 

One of the main reasons for that message was to testify to Jesus as was prophesied in the Old Testament. John could also testify about the experience surrounding the baptism of Jesus.

"The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, 'Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is the one I meant when I said, 'A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.' I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel.' 

Then John gave this testimony: 'I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, 'The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit,' I have seen and I testify that this is God's Chosen One.'" John 1:29-34

Of course, John's teachings did bring mixed feelings to some. One in particular was Herod, "...Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he liked to listen to him." Mark 6:20

In addition to testifying to Jesus and calling people to repent, John taught a simple message of kindness:

"'What should we do then?' the crowd asked.

John answered, 'Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.'

Even tax collectors came to be baptized. 'Teacher,' they asked, 'what should we do?'

'Don't collect any more than you are required to,' he told them.

Then some soldiers asked him, 'And what should we do?'

He replied, 'Don't extort money and don't accuse people falsely--be content with your pay.'" Luke 3:10-14

Those are some pretty simple, straight-forward messages and guidelines for daily living. 

Sadly, the death of John the Baptist came after Herod ordered his beheading. In Matthew 14:12-13a Jesus' response is recorded, "John's disciples came and took his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus. When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place." 

John the Baptist is spoken about again in John 10:40-42. This occurs not long before Christ's own death on the cross.

"Then Jesus went back across the Jordan to the place where John had been baptizing in the early days. There he stayed, and many people came to him. They said, 'Though John never performed a sign, all that John said about this man was true.' And in that place many believed in Jesus."

"...many believed in Jesus." Amen! Hallelujah, Amen! 

John the Baptist came into this world to be bold. 

He was enlightened by the Holy Spirit. 

He was a servant for the Lord, 

and he was a teacher to so many. 

More importantly, his message included these memorable words: 

"He must increase, but I must decrease."John 3:30 ESV

This Advent season, as we prepare our own hearts, let us seek to be each of these characteristics. 

Help us be Bold for the Lord. 

Help us to be Enlightened by the Holy Bible and the work of the Holy Spirit. 

Help us to seek out ways to be a Servant. 

Finally, help us seize upon opportunities to share the miracle of Jesus Christ.

Let's all strive to be the BEST this Advent season.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for the gift of salvation through Your Son Jesus Christ. Forgive us our sins and help us to boldly live each day seeking to be enlightened by Your Holy Spirit and to serve and teach others of Your powerful influence on our lives. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Advent: Time for the BEST (4 of 5)

Advent: Time for the B.E.S.T

S: Servant

"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, 

and to give his life as a ransom for many." Mark 10:45

Image by Pixabay

 So far we have seen that John the Baptist was Bold, and we have explored how he was also Enlightened, now let's see the Servant in John the Baptist.

Given John's background one might think that he would lead an illustrious life. That he would be making great profits from his wisdom and insight. He should have started a business so he could be raking in the dough. We know none of this is true, because financial success and worldly glory were not goals of John the Baptist.

John's earthly goal is revealed in Matthew 3:1-2, "In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.'"

We have already explored the fact that many wanted to hear this message. Many sought out John and listened to his message, but John wasn't swayed by the attention. He didn't get entranced by the idea of so many seeking his words. 

John the Baptist stayed humble and focused on his message and on his purpose.

 

Matthew 3:11, "I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire."

Because John had been filled with the Holy Spirit from birth, John even recognized Jesus when he came to be baptized. John showed his servant attitude even in this moment. 

"Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, 'I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?'

Jesus replied, 'Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.' Then John consented." Matthew 3:13-15

So, John has many people seeking him out for repentance; he has baptized Jesus himself! Time to retire, arrange speaking engagements, and sign that book deal! He is set for life. Ah, but remember, John didn't have that worldly view.

Jesus begins baptizing, and some of the followers of John are concerned as if it were a competition. "Then [John's disciples] came to John and said to him, 'Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan--the one you testified about--look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.'

To this John replied, 'A person can receive only what is given them from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said, 'I am not the Messiah but am sent ahead of him' The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom's voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. He must become greater; I must become less.'" John 3:26-30.

John the Baptist shows us that we can be Bold for the Lord and Enlightened by the Spirit 

and still have the heart of a Servant. 

"He must become greater; I must become less."

God, thank you for John's example of having a servant's heart. Help me to seek out ways in which I can serve. Help me to live out John's words, "He must become greater; I must become less." In the name of Jesus. Amen.

Advent: Time for the BEST (3 of 5)

Advent: Time for the B.E.S.T

E: Enlightened

Through an examination of Scripture, it is obvious to see that John was B-Bold, in both his speech and his actions. Now let's explore how John the Baptist fits the B.E.S.T. description by being E-Enlightened.

Image by Pixabay

 No, I am not encouraging anyone to jump on the current cultural bandwagon and declaring how newly "woke" I am or we all should be. Instead, let's use this Advent season to reflect on the importance of Jesus' birth and also explore John the Baptist's role in this season. 

Enlightened: "having or showing a rational, modern, and well-informed outlook"

This definition looks reasonable, but by society's standards, most wouldn't have described John as rational, modern, or well-informed about what the world views as important.

Spiritually speaking, John does fit every bit of the above definition by Oxford Languages, but the second definition is even more appropriate: "spiritually aware." We have every indication from Scripture that John the Baptist was Spirit-filled even from the womb.

In the beginning of Luke's gospel, Luke explains that he has completed a great deal of investigation surrounding Jesus, and he desires to "write an orderly account." This orderly account actually begins with John's beginnings.

John's parents were Zechariah and Elizabeth, and Luke 1:6 states, "Both of them were righteous in the sight of God, observing all the Lord's commands and decrees blamelessly." 

How remarkable to be described in this manner! The rest of the story is in the next verse, "But they were childless because Elizabeth was not able to conceive, and they were both very old." So, a childless home for these two who passionately followed the Lord.

And then one day when Zechariah was continuing to carry out his priestly duties, he was startled by an angel. Luke 1:13-17, records the scene, "But the angel said to him: 'Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born. He will bring back many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous--to make ready a people prepared for the Lord."

Clearly, John the Baptist was Enlightened (spiritually aware) since he was filled with the Holy Spirit even before his birth!

Physical evidence of this is even revealed in the familiar account of the expectant Mary (Jesus' mother) visiting her relative Elizabeth (who was expecting John). Luke 1:41 states, "When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit."

John 1:6-8 states John's enlightenment more succinctly, "There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light."

John the Baptist has a big role in the Christmas story, and actually, we need to strive to follow in his footsteps. We don't have to wear camel hair clothing or eat locusts, but we do need to seek wisdom and ask for the filling of the Holy Spirit. We do need to "testify concerning that light." 

Jesus wants to play a role in the lives of each of us. 

He wants us to each be enlightened and recognize the True Light in our lives.

We are then to spend our lives striving to be "a witness to the light."

Heavenly Father, I am a sinner. I need you in my life. I believe that You sent Jesus to this world to redeem all who believe. Father, help me to recognize Jesus as the True Light, fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to spend this season testifying to the Light in my life. In Jesus' Precious Name. Amen.

Advent: Time for the BEST (2 of 5)

 

Advent

Time for the BEST

Let's first look at how John fits the description of being B.E.S.T. by exploring in what ways John was Bold.

John's boldness is apparent from the start as his coming helps fulfill prophecy: John 1:1-4, "The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God, as it is written in Isaiah the prophet: 'I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way' --a voice of one calling in the wilderness, Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.' And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins."

This boldness of John's is rooted in the Holy Spirit. Luke 1:80 explains, "And the child grew and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly in Israel."

When it was time for John to appear, he clearly had a mission to follow. John 1:15 records John the Baptist at his mission, "(John testified concerning him [Jesus]. He cried out, saying, 'This is the one I spoke about when I said, 'He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.'"

John's boldness affected every aspect of his life, as he certainly didn't strive to fit in or "keep up with the Joneses." Matthew 3:4 describes the scene, "John's clothes were made of camel's hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey." 

Interesting then, are the next verses, Matthew 3:5-6 "People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River."

A unique figure, to be sure. 

Bold in his appearance; bold in his lifestyle choices; bold in his declarations and his challenge to all who would listen. 

John certainly did not live to fit in or to go unnoticed. 

John also apparently did none of the typical things to gain the approval of the hordes (appearance, money, "hanging with the right crowd") and yet people were drawn to him, or more so, his message. They were drawn to him to confess their sins; they were drawn to a stranger in camel's hair clothing who dined on grasshoppers and honey in order to seek ways in which they could be forgiven. Remarkable, and certainly the work of the Spirit.

Despite the fact that John didn't tell people what they wanted to hear, they were drawn to him. John even spoke boldly of the leaders of the day. Luke 3:19-20, "But when John rebuked Herod the tetrarch because of his marriage to Herodias, his brother's wife, and all the other evil things he had done, Herod added this to them all: He locked John up in prison." The story doesn't end there. 

John's boldness didn't come without a cost. Matthew 14:10, records that John was bold even if it cost him his life: "...and [Herod] had John beheaded in prison."

John was guided by the Spirit and not by the world. John was bold, 

and that is just part of what makes him fit the description of B.E.S.T.

Heavenly Father: Thank you for the examples of being bold that are provided in Your Word. Guide me through this season, and help me live more for Your purpose rather than my own. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Advent: Time for the BEST (1 of 5)

 Advent

Time for the B.E.S.T.

Image by Pixabay 

As Advent is the precursor, the time before, Christmas, John the Baptist was the precursor to Jesus’ time on this earth. Throughout our time together this Advent season, we are going to explore the B.E.S.T. qualities in John the Baptist. As we venture further into this holiday season, let’s also look inward to determine if we can grow a little closer to being B.E.S.T. as well.

B-Bold

E-Enlightened

S-Servant

T-Teacher

In Scripture, John the Baptist received high praise from Jesus himself:

Matthew 11: 10-11a

"This is the one about whom it is written: ‘I  will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’”

Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist..."

John "...not risen anyone greater..." John could even be referred to as the BEST man. 

Traditionally, a best man stands by the groom. He supports and encourages the groom on this momentous occasion. The best man doesn’t focus on his own life; his focus is on uplifting his friend. 

John’s life certainly fits this description as he even describes himself this way in John 3:28-29.

"You yourselves can testify that I am not the Messiah but am sent ahead of him. The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete."

This holiday season let us prepare our hearts like that of the B.E.S.T. man. Let us find some time to wait and listen for Him. Let us be filled with joy when we hear His still, small voice reassuring us.

Almighty God, we submit to You this holiday season. We want to prepare our hearts to be in tune to Your will. Help us to put aside our busy-ness and our agendas for Your Heavenly Plan. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

 

It's All About the Heart (3 of 3)

No one could ever question where Jesus' heart was, and David certainly lived as a "man after God's own heart." But where are we? Or more importantly, where is our heart?

Many scriptures caution us to be on our guard in regards to our heart:

Proverbs 4:20-22

"My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words.

Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; 

for they are life to those who find them and health to one's whole body."

Proverbs 4:23

"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."

When David wanted to be forgiven and restored to a right relationship with God, he wrote the following in Psalm 51:10, "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

Why do we need a heart for the Lord? Scripture answers this question as well.

Luke 6:45

"A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of."

We need a heart that is not hardened. If we have allowed our hearts to be hardened by the world and our experiences, we need to pray and believe God's word when he stated in Ezekiel 36:26. "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh."

With our "new heart" and a desire to commune with the Lord, we will be better able to follow Jesus' command in the New Testament: "Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord you God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" Matthew 22:37-39

Once our heart is right, we are able to fully love. 

Jesus also leaves us with this promise in Philippians 4:7, "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

God is in the business of hearts, and he wants us to have a clean, healthy heart that is softened and in tune to Him and His love for us. Once we realize this, we will be better able to turn our love to others.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for my heart. "Create in me a clean heart, O God." Help me to live my life walking with You and growing closer to you. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

 

It's All About the Heart (2 of 3)

When thinking back to Sunday School days, David was a regular figure discussed. David watching his sheep; David playing the harp; David facing the giant Goliath with only a slingshot and stones.

The Bible certainly depicts David as a fearless warrior for the Lord.

And he certainly was a warrior for the Lord, but David's heroic actions weren't rooted in his slingshot. They were rooted in his heart. 

Scripture records the following in regards to David:

Acts 13:22, "After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: 'I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.'"

While David did use his bravery and his brawn to defend the honor of the Lord, he also used his words to convey the passion in his heart for the Lord.

David is noted as the author to as many as half of the Psalms, and each of them reveal David's love for and communion with the Lord. They show that David truly did have a heart for the Lord God.

"My heart, O God, is steadfast; 

I will sing and make music with all my soul." Psalm 108:1

"How precious to me are your thoughts, God!

How vast is the sum of them!

Were I to count them,'

they would outnumber the grains of sand--

when I awake, I am still with you."   Psalm 139:17-18

Let us seek to have our own hearts set on our God. Let us commit ourselves to serving the Lord our God.

Father, thank you for being our Almighty and Faithful God. Thank you for the witness and example of others who have lived for you. Help us to seek to truly know you in our hearts. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

It's All About the Heart (1 of 3)

It's All About the Heart 

Image by InspiredImages from Pixabay 

We hear it said of athletes, "That girl is all heart." We hear it of performers, "He really put his whole heart into that performance." We say it about ourselves when finishing a huge project, "My heart and soul went into that." Can we also see our heart in our spiritual lives? 

Jesus revealed His heart when just a young boy. 

It is recorded in Luke that when Jesus was just 12 years old, the family traveled to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. When it was time to depart, Jesus did not leave with everyone, Luke 2 records the rest, "After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers." 

When Mary and Joseph expressed their worry, v. 49 reveals Jesus' response, 

"Why were you searching for me?" he asked. "Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house."

Some versions state this as "about my Father's business." Jesus' heart was about his Father's business, and it showed in his actions and his knowledge.

Let us follow the lead of a young, yet wise Jesus and set our own hearts and minds on things above.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Help me to leave the swirling distractions around me for the peace and wisdom of Your Presence. I surrender my heart to You, Lord. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Proverbs 4:23

"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.'

2 Thessalonians 3:5

"May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance."

Are You a Member?

Are You a Member?

    Many country clubs are very exclusive places. One must be a member to enjoy the facilities. One of my daughters is currently a hostess at a country club. Because of an unfortunate incident with a deer one night while driving home, she found herself in need of a ride to work for her next shift.

    As we turned into the facility and I took in the beautiful surroundings, she advised me to keep driving. We drove through the lot, right past the front doors, and almost all the way around the lot. Just before the edge of the lot, she said it was okay to pull in to let her out. She explained that the workers needed to park the furthest away, and that she needed to enter through the back. Members enter through the front; help enter through the back; members enjoy the amenities at the facility; workers provide those amenities.

    While this is of course typical protocol, the concept made me think about my relationship with the Lord. Jesus reassured his disciples with the following words from John 14: 1-4, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father's house has many room; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going."

    Forgive me for using a country club for the sake of comparison, 

but let's explore this.

     I can't get into a country club because I haven't paid the dues; I can get into heaven because Jesus paid my dues with his sacrifice on the cross. Not only that, but Jesus says there is a room prepared for me. I don't have to park at the outskirts of the lot; I don't have to enter through the back door.

    I can freely and confidently walk through the doors knowing that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for me. As if that weren't enough, but Jesus also promises to be there with us. 

    Maybe we have the same question as Thomas had when hearing Jesus' words. We aren't told whether Thomas boldly asked Jesus this question or whether he pulled Jesus aside and whispered the words, but the conversation continues in John 14:5-6. "Thomas said to him, 'Lord, we don't know where you are going, so how can we know the way?' Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'"

    Today, since I am not a member of a country club, I can not walk in to enjoy the beautiful atmosphere, but I can be assured by Jesus' own words. I have a better place waiting for me if I put my faith in Jesus.

Prayer: Dear Father, I trust in you and in Jesus Christ as my Savior. I desire to live with you now and into eternity. I surrender my life to you, Lord. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

    

In the Garden

In the Garden

Let's establish a quiet time! Let's do it!

I hope you know the song "In the Garden." If not, please stop, Google it & take the time to relax and listen.

Did you hear these words, "I come to the garden alone while the dew is still on the roses"? What a peaceful picture is offered in these words! The song continues with the following, "And He walks with me and He talks with me, And He tells me I am His own; And the joy we share as we tarry there, None other has ever known."

The song is beautiful. C. Austin Miles wrote this song in 1912, and it is reported that he based it on the joy he felt after reading John 20. This song has certainly stood the test of time, and it has been recorded numerous times over the years by a variety of artists including, Alan Jackson, Elvis Presley, Merle Haggard, and Anne Murray. 

The pictures created by this song are so beautiful and peaceful and calming. One of my favorite Bible verses is Micah 6:8, "He has shown you, O mortal, 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." Walking with the Lord seems like a wonderful way to pass my days.

But how? I have a spouse, four children, a full-time job. How in the world do I "walk with the Lord."

By making time with the Lord a priority. Taking a few minutes to quiet your heart and connect with the Creator makes all the difference in the world. It is worth it.

Trust me. I have had to face many days when I did not seek the Lord. Looking back, I find many of those days to be full of stress, anxiety, and less than ideal reactions by me. It would be intriguing, and humbling, for me to look back on how those days might have been different if I had taken the time to connect with the Lord before facing my day.

Why make time for a quiet time? This answer comes from Scripture and is filled with so many promises that come directly from the Lord: Isaiah 40:28-31
"Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 
but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
 they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Why have a quiet time? Break these verses down into a strong rationale to find time to meet with the Lord each day.

1. Use quiet time to acknowledge your Creator and His endless power. v 28
2. He will give that power and strength to you. v 29
3. Everyone gets tired, worn out, and weary. You are not alone! v 30
4. Have hope that God will sustain you with His strength and might. v 31
5. God will help you to soar! v 31

Why have a quiet time?

"....He walks with me and He talks with me, 

And He tells me I am His own;

And the joy we share as we tarry there,

None other has ever known."  

Father, I know you are my God and my Savior. I want to meet with You. Help me to create a habit of seeking You and Your strength to get me through each day. In Christ's Name. Amen.

Grab the Remote

Grab the Remote

One expression that is repeated endlessly in people's homes and is often muttered in desperation followed by a heavy sigh. "Where's the remote?" We often misplace this tiny gadget, and we sorely miss it when we do. It may be small, but it is mighty in its ability to control what we are seeing and experiencing.

Image by Adriano Gadini from Pixabay 

I once passed through our living room and was surprised by something my son was watching, and when I asked him about it, you can probably guess his response, "I couldn't find the remote." Rather than expend the energy to find it, he settled for whatever was in front of him. Many of us are guilty of the same action just letting whatever comes on the screen next entertain us. 

While we may do this with television, let's not do the same with our thoughts. When it comes to our minds, we must always be fully in control of the remote. We cannot afford to be cavalier with our thoughts.

Let's grab the remote and grab control of our thoughts.

Paul advises in 2 Corinthians 10: 5b, "...and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." Philippians 2:5 encourages, "In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus." Both of these verses are challenging. Both of these verses advise us to grab the remote and to actively change the channel of our thinking. It won't work to watch whatever comes up. Our thoughts can be destructive and negative at times; we don't need to be there! Grab the remote! Take captive those thoughts!

What "channel" should we go to? Philippians 4:8 offers excellent advice and a variety of options: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things." What options! God isn't really limiting our thinking, but He is saying take control over our thoughts. Replace the fear with what is true. Replace the complaining with what is lovely. Replace the gossip with what is praiseworthy. We need to grab the remote and gain control of our thoughts!

While we still may struggle in my home finding the TV's remote control, I am now actively striving to take back control of my thoughts.

Father, one area in which I struggle is with negative and self-defeating thoughts, please give me wisdom and discernment over my thoughts and attitudes that they may be pleasing and glorifying to you, Lord. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Our Easter Courtroom

Our Easter Courtroom 

Ready to face my fate, I am brought into the courtroom. Shackles around my ankles. Cuffs around my wrists. I am seated alone at the defendant's table. My individual guard close by watching my every movement.

The snake-like prosecutor looks over at me with disgust as he unloads the reams of pages he has packed in the files he has against me. Legal pads are filled with notes. He certainly has done his homework to compile my past offenses.

Just as the clock ticks the hour to begin the proceedings, the judge strolls into the courtroom. While he has a welcoming demeanor, he is intimidating at the same time. He sits down and immediately clears his throat to get down to business, "Prosecutor, are you ready to begin?"

In one slithery motion, he stands and almost gleefully replies, "I am, Your Honor." He sits giving me a withering sideways stare.

"Defense?"

I fumble to my feet. Hesitatingly, "I...uh-um...I..."

The prosecutor smiles and almost chuckles as he shuffles his reams of documents.

Silence. The tears well behind my eyes. I have nothing---

The side door to the courtroom opens and a blinding light shines in. A figure appears, and a deep voice cuts through the silence, "Your Honor." The prosecutor's smile withers at the voice, and he slinks in his seat.

The voice says, "Your Honor, I am willing to speak on this child's behalf. We are willing to admit that the accused has not lead a perfect life.--I myself can contest to how challenging that feat is to complete.--I am further willing to say that I will take all punishment that this child deserves."

"Actually, Your Honor, the accused's crimes have already been paid for long ago. The deserved death sentence...I served it."

My heart swells and the tears now flow. The prosecutor whimpers as the stack of pages slowly disintegrated before him. 

The judge's verdict echoes as the gavel sounds, "Free to go." After these words were spoken and the gavel was dropped, the courtroom scene quickly transformed itself to a windblown hill with three crosses. As my shackles fell away, a drop of blood from the man on the cross landed at my feet and I heard the words, "It is finished."

This Easter if you haven't stepped into the eternal courtroom and trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior, Redeemer, and Representation, please consider the eternal consequences. 

Prayer: Father, I am guilty, imperfect, and unworthy; yet Your love, Your grace, and Your Son are offered to me. I surrender my will and my selfishness to live my life for you, O Lord. In Jesus' Precious Name. Amen.

John 10:10 " The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

Explore the Power of the Checklist (2 of 2)

Explore the Power of the Checklist

Image by Tumisu from Pixabay 

Okay, so hopefully, we now have worked in time alone with God and regular Bible reading into our schedules. Please be a little creative with me as we think about how to apply lists to our Scripture reading and Bible verse memorization. 

We are not making the list with the intent that we are thinking about a one and done approach, but rather as a means of focusing our attention on each and every aspect of these verses. My intent is to really focus on the words and live them out day after day. This will also imprint each word or phrase of each verse on our hearts and minds. 

Let's start with 1 Corinthians 13. This chapter lends itself to two different lists.

Verses 1-3

• "If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 
• If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.
• If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing."

The tone shifts in this second list: (v. 4-8a)

• "Love is patient
• love is kind.
• It does not envy,
• it does not boast,
• it is not proud.
• It does not dishonor others,
• it is not self-seeking,
• it is not easily angered, 
• it keeps no record of wrongs.
• Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
• If always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
• Love never fails."

Image by Bruno/Germany from Pixabay

The following is one of my favorites and a powerful daily reminder.

"He has shown you, O mortal, 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

The following verse is especially powerful when facing trying times.

"Finally, brothers and sisters,

• whatever is true,
• whatever is noble, whatever is right, 
• whatever is pure, 
• whatever is lovely,
• whatever is admirable--
• if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--
• think about such things. "                                          Philippians 4:8

Father, Thank you for your Holy Word. Help me to write these verses on my heart.

Help me to focus my mind on Your Will for my life each day. In Christ's Name, Amen.