Thursday, March 31, 2011
Not A Bunch Of Chance Happenings
Thursday, March 31, 2011 Reading: John 17:1-5 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%2017&version=NIV Reflection: In our passage this morning Jesus states that "the hour" has come. In other words, the long-awaited moment when the Son of God offers Himself up as a sin offering has finally arrived. The result will be the reversal of the curse of Eden; the restoration of relationship with God and man; the presence of peace not only between man and God but between one person and another. What is interesting to me is the realization that this moment doesn't come as one of an entire series of chance happenings. Rather, God has been planning for this moment since the moment of the fall. In fact, longer than that! God planned all of this before He even created the world. God has patiently but deliberately moved human history through time until we have arrived at the moment of Jesus' glorification of the Father, and the Father's glorification of Jesus. In the same way, all these chance happenings in my life are not really chance happenings. They may seem to be the result of a whole series of coincidences, but in reality God is moving my life, and the life of every person, through time until we arrive at the final return of His son. God is on the throne...He is in control...He is moving history in a direction...every event has a purpose and a reason...and so do I. So, let's get out there today and see a bit of history unfold through what we say and do!
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Knowing One Who Knows The Future
Wednesday, March 30, 2011 Reading: John 16:17-33 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%2016&version=NIV Reflection: One of the things that none of us really knows is the future. We sometimes think we do...but in reality we do not. None of us knows if we will have a job next month; if our health will be good next week; if our children will grow up to be faithful to Jesus or wander from the path. We make our plans and do our best, but one unplanned disaster occurs and all our planning is for not. However, as this passage makes clear, what we cannot know is crystal clear to Jesus. Jesus knew full well what was in His future...and He knows what is in ours as well. I find this quite comforting. It reminds me that so long as I stay connected to Jesus, I am connected to one who can safely guide me from day to day because nothing will come as a surprise to Him. So, as we begin this day, we all have our plans to go here and there. However, those plans may be turned upside down by the time breakfast is over. If that happens, let's be glad that while we may be caught off guard, Jesus can guide us safely through those events because He knows our future and can direct our paths.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Say What God Leads You To Say
Tuesday, March 29, 2011 Reading: John 16:5-16 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%2016&version=NIV Reflection: In this passage we see that Jesus will send us the Holy Spirit once He returns to the Father. In this sense, it is better that Jesus leave because unless He returns to God, the Spirit won't come for us. We also learn that the Holy Spirit not only convicts us of guilt and convinces us of truth, but that the Holy Spirit does not speak on His own authority. More specifically, the Holy Spirit doesn't even decide for Himself what we should be told. Jesus clearly states that the Holy Spirit only passes along to us what He hears from the Father. Thus, the Word that comes to us is not something the Spirit decides on His own to state, but what the Father decides that He should say. In other words, the Spirit is not to use His own words, under His own authority, with His own agenda when He witnesses for God...He speaks what He hears. This is significant for us as well. You see, the Holy Spirit fills and empowers each of us. He gives us the words to speak when we testify for God. However, the words He gives to us come directly from the Father. Thus, when we speak we are actually sharing the words that have come from God, through the Spirit, to us. This also means that when we witness we don't speak with our own authority or with our own agendas. We are to say what the Spirit gives us to say, no more and no less. When that word is heard, and faith and conversion and growth come to people, it isn't because of our unique skills in oration. It is because the words come with the authority and agenda of God. So, we can let go of our need to try to gain specific results. We simply speak the words God has given and trust in His authority to produce the results He desires.
Helping Us Stay The Course
Monday, March 28, 2011 Reading: John 16:1-4 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%2016&version=NIV Reflection: Jesus has given His disciples some disturbing news. If they thought that following Him would ensure an easy road without pain and suffering, they were mistaken. In fact, Jesus openly tells them at the end of chapter 15 that the world will actually hate them, just as it has hated him. In the same way, as the world persecuted Jesus, so too they will persecute His followers. Now, at the beginning of chapter 16, we find out why Jesus has chosen to give such troubling news to His disciples. It's not because Jesus is a skeptic with a negative view of people and the world...though Jesus' view is realistic. It's not simply to make the disciples help him carry this heavy burden of suffering for the greater good...though the disciples will, in the end, do just that. No, the reason Jesus made sure His disciples knew what was coming was so that they would not fall away. In other words, Jesus wanted to help His disciples to be successful in following Him. For that reason, Jesus shares truth...even hard truth...in order to prepare His disciples for the reality of their future. We could learn a lesson here. Sometimes when we have a hard truth for people...a truth we know they don't want to hear and may, in fact, anger them...we far too often choose not to say anything. We do this because we think we are being loving and gracious. The truth is, however, that we should be willing to share hard truth with each other. We are, to be sure, to be as gracious, kind and gentle when doing so. But if we really want to love one another, we will give them the hard truths of life that prepare them for the realities of the road ahead rather than being silent and watching them walk into a mess. So, let's be like Jesus. Let's be willing to be truthful with each other...even when the truth is hard to say and even hard to here. And let's do it not to trip each other up, but to help each other stay the course of a faithful disciple.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Hang On...Your Reward Is Coming
Week In Review: It's interesting that the week's thoughts began with Jesus' encouragement to His disciples to trust God, and to trust Him. Jesus was encouraging a group of disciples who were troubled of heart. The week then ended with the reminder that many, if not most, of the people who hear the gospel will not positively respond. In fact, they may actually reject not only the gospel, but us as well. This, of course, troubles our hearts...not necessarily because we want people to be pleased with us but because we desire both the salvation of people and relationships with others. However, if we will keep our eyes set on Christ and the hope that awaits us, we gain a bit of perspective when our hearts are troubled. We begin to long not for the approval of people, but the rewards of God. We realize that this world is not our home, that we are not citizens of this kingdom, that while we not be fully accepted here the day will come when we go home to a grand reception. Between now and then, we faithfully serve our master until the day of our homegoing. So, my friend, keep your eyes on the future and go out and serve Him today.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Why Are We Rejected So Often?
Friday, March 25, 2001
Reading: John 15:18-27
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%2015:18-25&version=NIV
Reflection: Did you know that over the past year we have seen two adults and five children commit their lives to Christ? It's true. It's also the stuff that brings excitement to the church. This is because while we greatly value growing in Christ and serving for Christ, it is really Connecting people for the first time to Jesus and then to His body that really thrills the hearts of people. However, its also true that people rarely positively respond to the gospel. The vast majority of people to whom I talk have lots of questions. Many times I answer those questions in a way that causes them to believe that the gospel may in fact be factually accurate. However, that doesn't mean that they actually submit their lives to it. Most of the time, they do not. In addition, many times because they reject the gospel and the relationship it provides, they also tend to reject me and that relationship as well. Once the gospel has been shared, and rejected, somehow people tend to try to avoid me, and sometimes openly speak against me.
This used to bother me. However, Jesus reminds us in the passage of teaching today that this is to be expected. After all, if I as His student am less than the master, then if they rejected Him they will likely reject me. If they persecuted Him, they will likely persecute me. As they sought to challenge His teaching and put Him to public shame, they will likely do the same to me. So, while it still doesn't feel good to have that happen, it is understandable...and almost expected. So, rather than hiding in the corner and wishing people liked me, I need to embrace being rejected as a badge of honor and a sign that I truly am a disciple of Jesus. So, let's not seek rejection and persecution...but let's not run from it as well. Let's live faithful lives...living and speaking for Jesus...and then be honored to accept whatever consequences come to us because of our faithful witnessing.
Reading: John 15:18-27
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%2015:18-25&version=NIV
Reflection: Did you know that over the past year we have seen two adults and five children commit their lives to Christ? It's true. It's also the stuff that brings excitement to the church. This is because while we greatly value growing in Christ and serving for Christ, it is really Connecting people for the first time to Jesus and then to His body that really thrills the hearts of people. However, its also true that people rarely positively respond to the gospel. The vast majority of people to whom I talk have lots of questions. Many times I answer those questions in a way that causes them to believe that the gospel may in fact be factually accurate. However, that doesn't mean that they actually submit their lives to it. Most of the time, they do not. In addition, many times because they reject the gospel and the relationship it provides, they also tend to reject me and that relationship as well. Once the gospel has been shared, and rejected, somehow people tend to try to avoid me, and sometimes openly speak against me.
This used to bother me. However, Jesus reminds us in the passage of teaching today that this is to be expected. After all, if I as His student am less than the master, then if they rejected Him they will likely reject me. If they persecuted Him, they will likely persecute me. As they sought to challenge His teaching and put Him to public shame, they will likely do the same to me. So, while it still doesn't feel good to have that happen, it is understandable...and almost expected. So, rather than hiding in the corner and wishing people liked me, I need to embrace being rejected as a badge of honor and a sign that I truly am a disciple of Jesus. So, let's not seek rejection and persecution...but let's not run from it as well. Let's live faithful lives...living and speaking for Jesus...and then be honored to accept whatever consequences come to us because of our faithful witnessing.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Fruitbearing: Mechanism and Motive
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Reading: John 15:1-17
Reflection: As I read through the scripture reading this morning...a bit like a half awake person I must admit...it seemed to me that there were two key ideas that jumped out at me. The first of those is the mechanism needed for any disciple to bear fruit. From what Jesus says, a disciple doesn't bear fruit because they never miss personal devotions or work hard at social reforms. They don't bear fruit because they have learned their gifts profile and applied those gifts successfully in life. All of these things assume that I am the one who brings fruit to life. But Jesus is the one who brings the fruit. So, the disciple's role is simply to remain constantly connected to Jesus. If I remain in Him...if I allow my daily life to be governed and guided by His Spirit...He will bear fruit through me. This is the mechanism for bearing fruit...I remain in Him.
This passage seems to also move beyond the mechanism for bearing fruit to the actual motive of the disciple in the process. A genuine disciple is not seeking to reproduce fruit in life in order to gain a reputation for themselves as a spiritual guru. Neither are they to produce fruit as a means of gaining a ministry position or for the purpose of bringing social relief or justice. According to Jesus, the reason we bear fruit is for the sake of God's glory. It is the disciples goal in fruitbearing to seek to advance the name and reputation of their God. So, if I am to be the real deal, I need to focus on remaining in constant contact with Jesus so that He can produce fruit in and through me in a way that brings glory to our God. This is the mechanism and motive for bearing fruit.
Reading: John 15:1-17
Reflection: As I read through the scripture reading this morning...a bit like a half awake person I must admit...it seemed to me that there were two key ideas that jumped out at me. The first of those is the mechanism needed for any disciple to bear fruit. From what Jesus says, a disciple doesn't bear fruit because they never miss personal devotions or work hard at social reforms. They don't bear fruit because they have learned their gifts profile and applied those gifts successfully in life. All of these things assume that I am the one who brings fruit to life. But Jesus is the one who brings the fruit. So, the disciple's role is simply to remain constantly connected to Jesus. If I remain in Him...if I allow my daily life to be governed and guided by His Spirit...He will bear fruit through me. This is the mechanism for bearing fruit...I remain in Him.
This passage seems to also move beyond the mechanism for bearing fruit to the actual motive of the disciple in the process. A genuine disciple is not seeking to reproduce fruit in life in order to gain a reputation for themselves as a spiritual guru. Neither are they to produce fruit as a means of gaining a ministry position or for the purpose of bringing social relief or justice. According to Jesus, the reason we bear fruit is for the sake of God's glory. It is the disciples goal in fruitbearing to seek to advance the name and reputation of their God. So, if I am to be the real deal, I need to focus on remaining in constant contact with Jesus so that He can produce fruit in and through me in a way that brings glory to our God. This is the mechanism and motive for bearing fruit.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Obedience Is The Key
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Reading: John 14:15-31
Reflection: It is easy to overlook how important it is to not only know the teachings of Jesus, but also to obey them in life. In fact, you could go so far as to say that the person who does not obey Jesus' words likely doesn't really understand them...for inherent in Jesus' concept of understanding is both the acceptance of factual reality and application to daily life. This is important because while many may say that simply knowing who Jesus is...and mentally consenting to the truth of that knowledge...is enough to gain the Holy Spirit. This is not true, given what Jesus says in this passage. Jesus states that it is not those who just "know who He is", but those who "in this knowledge choose to obey Him" who will gain the Holy Spirit.
So, how is the Holy Spirit of God gained by any person? It seems to me that first there needs to be some time in the presence of Jesus. During this time, we come to know who He is and what He believes. Second, there must be mental consent. Those gathered around him must come to the conclusion that Jesus is who He claims to be, given what He does and teaches. Third, once I have been with Jesus, come to know what He stands for, and mentally agreed with who this person is, I then need to give my life to embrace those teachings as my primary pattern of life. If I do this, then the Holy Spirit comes upon me and gives me the strength, encouragment and guideand needed to faithfully live out Jesus' teachings. So, the key to the Holy Spirit is not just knowing Jesus...it is obeying the teaching of that Jesus you have come to know. Obedience is the key.
Reading: John 14:15-31
Reflection: It is easy to overlook how important it is to not only know the teachings of Jesus, but also to obey them in life. In fact, you could go so far as to say that the person who does not obey Jesus' words likely doesn't really understand them...for inherent in Jesus' concept of understanding is both the acceptance of factual reality and application to daily life. This is important because while many may say that simply knowing who Jesus is...and mentally consenting to the truth of that knowledge...is enough to gain the Holy Spirit. This is not true, given what Jesus says in this passage. Jesus states that it is not those who just "know who He is", but those who "in this knowledge choose to obey Him" who will gain the Holy Spirit.
So, how is the Holy Spirit of God gained by any person? It seems to me that first there needs to be some time in the presence of Jesus. During this time, we come to know who He is and what He believes. Second, there must be mental consent. Those gathered around him must come to the conclusion that Jesus is who He claims to be, given what He does and teaches. Third, once I have been with Jesus, come to know what He stands for, and mentally agreed with who this person is, I then need to give my life to embrace those teachings as my primary pattern of life. If I do this, then the Holy Spirit comes upon me and gives me the strength, encouragment and guideand needed to faithfully live out Jesus' teachings. So, the key to the Holy Spirit is not just knowing Jesus...it is obeying the teaching of that Jesus you have come to know. Obedience is the key.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
An Unpopular And Exclusive Claim
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Reading: John 14: 5-14
Reflection: It seems interesting to me that Jesus remains so popular today when what He believed and what He said is so universally rejected. It is common to come across people in our day who claim to believe that Jesus was a good man, a great teacher, and a wise prophet. These people will openly state that Jesus was one of the greatest men on earth, and that if we would simply live as Jesus lived, the world would be a better place.
Now, of course, I agree with these people...as far as they go. And yet, not only was Jesus much more than a great man, it is also obvious to me that these people don't really understand what Jesus believed. You see, in our scripture reading today Jesus states...in very direct terms...that there is only one way that anyone can ever gain salvation. That one way is to come to faith in the one man who alone was both a man and God. This is clear in two statements of Jesus. The first is that "...noone comes to the Father except through me." That is a completely exclusive claim. One can't gain salvation through any other person...and therefore through any other faith, than Christianity. The reason for this is because of the second statement where Jesus states that "...I am in the Father and the Father is in me..." That's another way of saying that Jesus is in fact God come to earth to save humanity.
So, Jesus is the only way of salvation because only He is the God of creation come to earth to rescue humanity. Christianity is the only faith that believes and presents this Jesus to the world. So, in a world that loves the idea of many roads to heaven, Jesus insists that all are lost apart from the Jesus presented by and through Christianity. So, why is Jesus so popular when what He taught is almost universally rejected. While there are many answers, one of them is that the Jesus of popular culture is not the Jesus of the bible. Jesus has been recreated in the modern mind and then this distorted idea has been embraced. So, as we enter the world as Christians today, let us not be deceived by the popular remake of Jesus. Let us hold to the Jesus of history, who insisted that He alone is the way, the truth and the life...and that no one comes to the Father except through Him.
Reading: John 14: 5-14
Reflection: It seems interesting to me that Jesus remains so popular today when what He believed and what He said is so universally rejected. It is common to come across people in our day who claim to believe that Jesus was a good man, a great teacher, and a wise prophet. These people will openly state that Jesus was one of the greatest men on earth, and that if we would simply live as Jesus lived, the world would be a better place.
Now, of course, I agree with these people...as far as they go. And yet, not only was Jesus much more than a great man, it is also obvious to me that these people don't really understand what Jesus believed. You see, in our scripture reading today Jesus states...in very direct terms...that there is only one way that anyone can ever gain salvation. That one way is to come to faith in the one man who alone was both a man and God. This is clear in two statements of Jesus. The first is that "...noone comes to the Father except through me." That is a completely exclusive claim. One can't gain salvation through any other person...and therefore through any other faith, than Christianity. The reason for this is because of the second statement where Jesus states that "...I am in the Father and the Father is in me..." That's another way of saying that Jesus is in fact God come to earth to save humanity.
So, Jesus is the only way of salvation because only He is the God of creation come to earth to rescue humanity. Christianity is the only faith that believes and presents this Jesus to the world. So, in a world that loves the idea of many roads to heaven, Jesus insists that all are lost apart from the Jesus presented by and through Christianity. So, why is Jesus so popular when what He taught is almost universally rejected. While there are many answers, one of them is that the Jesus of popular culture is not the Jesus of the bible. Jesus has been recreated in the modern mind and then this distorted idea has been embraced. So, as we enter the world as Christians today, let us not be deceived by the popular remake of Jesus. Let us hold to the Jesus of history, who insisted that He alone is the way, the truth and the life...and that no one comes to the Father except through Him.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Hope For A Troubled Heart
Monday, March 21, 2011
Reading: John 14:1-4
Reflection: There are many things that can trouble one's heart. When a parent's child begins to move in a direction away from faith and toward destruction, the heart of a parent is troubled. When a person's marriage is experiencing strain due to a lack of communication, intimacy or relational unity, the heart of a spouse is troubled. When a man loses his job and is uncertain how he will be able to adequately provide for his family, the heart of a father is troubled. When a child is picked on, bullied, or ignored by peers the heart of a child is troubled. And here, in our passage this morning, we see that when a disciple fears being disconnected personally and/or physically from their master, the heart of a disciple is troubled.
The solution to a troubled heart, at least for the Christian disciple, is an unwavering trust in the promises of God and the person of Jesus. In Jesus, God has kept his promise to come and redeem His people. In Christ, we have the ongoing promise that God will not leave us or forsake us. And now, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we have the very presence of Christ not only with us, but in us. Through the Spirit, Jesus guides, directs, convicts, convinces and encourages the believer. And, as Jesus has promised, one day that spiritual presence will give way to His physical presence when He actually returns for us. It is this promise that allows our troubled hearts to gain peace. So, as I go through the events of this day...when I experience those things that can so easily trouble my heart...I need to choose to trust that the promises of God gained through the person of Jesus are reliable, certain and sure. Jesus is with me now...and will one day also come back for me. This truth, firmly rooted in my heart, can give me peace in the face of very difficult daily realities.
Reading: John 14:1-4
Reflection: There are many things that can trouble one's heart. When a parent's child begins to move in a direction away from faith and toward destruction, the heart of a parent is troubled. When a person's marriage is experiencing strain due to a lack of communication, intimacy or relational unity, the heart of a spouse is troubled. When a man loses his job and is uncertain how he will be able to adequately provide for his family, the heart of a father is troubled. When a child is picked on, bullied, or ignored by peers the heart of a child is troubled. And here, in our passage this morning, we see that when a disciple fears being disconnected personally and/or physically from their master, the heart of a disciple is troubled.
The solution to a troubled heart, at least for the Christian disciple, is an unwavering trust in the promises of God and the person of Jesus. In Jesus, God has kept his promise to come and redeem His people. In Christ, we have the ongoing promise that God will not leave us or forsake us. And now, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we have the very presence of Christ not only with us, but in us. Through the Spirit, Jesus guides, directs, convicts, convinces and encourages the believer. And, as Jesus has promised, one day that spiritual presence will give way to His physical presence when He actually returns for us. It is this promise that allows our troubled hearts to gain peace. So, as I go through the events of this day...when I experience those things that can so easily trouble my heart...I need to choose to trust that the promises of God gained through the person of Jesus are reliable, certain and sure. Jesus is with me now...and will one day also come back for me. This truth, firmly rooted in my heart, can give me peace in the face of very difficult daily realities.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
The Supreme Role Of Love
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Weekly Review: As I review this weeks entries, it seems to me that perhaps what the Lord is reminding me of is the central, perhaps even supreme role of love in the Chrisitan life. Now, we have to be careful when we say that, because our minds tend to go toward either romance or emotional feelings when we bring up the word love. But biblically, the word has more to do with unconditional commitment to the good of another rather than feeling romantic. For example, when Jesus showed the fullest extent of His love, it wasn't through the giving of flowers or the expression of emotion. Rather, He acted out a parable that reminds us that at time when we had walked away from Him, He remained committed to us, left His throne in heaven, and came to rescue us. This kind of unreserved commitment is defined for us as love. In the same way, in love He has put us in relationship with other believers, not so much so that we can find romance or gain a feeling, but so that we can remain as committed to them as He is to us. As we love one another...as we remain unconditionally committed to each other...we reflect the glory and majesty of God to others. This becomes the defining mark of discipleship as we show the full extent of our love to each other in the same way Jesus showed it to us. Let us pray that the Lord can give us the spritual strength and resolve to do just that, rather than taking the easy route of walking away without doing the hard work of staying and loving until all is resolved.
Weekly Review: As I review this weeks entries, it seems to me that perhaps what the Lord is reminding me of is the central, perhaps even supreme role of love in the Chrisitan life. Now, we have to be careful when we say that, because our minds tend to go toward either romance or emotional feelings when we bring up the word love. But biblically, the word has more to do with unconditional commitment to the good of another rather than feeling romantic. For example, when Jesus showed the fullest extent of His love, it wasn't through the giving of flowers or the expression of emotion. Rather, He acted out a parable that reminds us that at time when we had walked away from Him, He remained committed to us, left His throne in heaven, and came to rescue us. This kind of unreserved commitment is defined for us as love. In the same way, in love He has put us in relationship with other believers, not so much so that we can find romance or gain a feeling, but so that we can remain as committed to them as He is to us. As we love one another...as we remain unconditionally committed to each other...we reflect the glory and majesty of God to others. This becomes the defining mark of discipleship as we show the full extent of our love to each other in the same way Jesus showed it to us. Let us pray that the Lord can give us the spritual strength and resolve to do just that, rather than taking the easy route of walking away without doing the hard work of staying and loving until all is resolved.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Love's Stamp of Authenticity
Friday, March 18, 2011
Reading: John 13:31-38
Reflection: Notice what is the defining mark...the stamp of authenticity...when it comes to discipleship. It is not our theology, our doctrine, our worldview, our church attendance, our morals and values, our income, positions or status that proves to the world that we are genuine disciples. What causes people to recognize us as the real deal is our love for other believers.
I find this interesting, particularly in a day when many Christians find it necessary to ridicule, or criticise, the church. Many of these people openly state that their problem with the church is that it is disconnected from the world; that the church is out of touch and too interested in doing its own thing to be of any value to lost people. It is popular for Christians in our day to suggest that they love Jesus but hate the church. However, according to Jesus, such a person is not an authentic disciple. A genuine disciple loves the church...in word and in deed. Remember that truth the next time you are tempted to run down a brother or sister in Christ.
Reading: John 13:31-38
Reflection: Notice what is the defining mark...the stamp of authenticity...when it comes to discipleship. It is not our theology, our doctrine, our worldview, our church attendance, our morals and values, our income, positions or status that proves to the world that we are genuine disciples. What causes people to recognize us as the real deal is our love for other believers.
I find this interesting, particularly in a day when many Christians find it necessary to ridicule, or criticise, the church. Many of these people openly state that their problem with the church is that it is disconnected from the world; that the church is out of touch and too interested in doing its own thing to be of any value to lost people. It is popular for Christians in our day to suggest that they love Jesus but hate the church. However, according to Jesus, such a person is not an authentic disciple. A genuine disciple loves the church...in word and in deed. Remember that truth the next time you are tempted to run down a brother or sister in Christ.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Nothing Is Left To Chance
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Reading: John 13:18=30
Reflection: It's interesting to note that, according to Jesus, even His betrayal happened according to God's plan. When Jesus tells the disciples that someone will betray Him, He also notes that this will happen to "fulfill the scripture." So, from Jesus' birth, to His baptism, to His betrayal, to His death, there isn't a single detail left to chance. Jesus may be handed over, but it will happen according to God's foreknowledge and plan.
This is actually encouraging to me. Unlike many people who read such statements and question whether or not they can trust a God who plans His own son's death, I read these statements and gain confidence that the world is not out of control. You see, the historical events that brought about our salvation were never left to chance. God has always known not only THAT I would be saved, but HOW and WHEN and WHERE that salvation would occur. Because God is unchanging in nature, that means that we are also moving toward the return of Jesus according to God's set plan. The events of our day are not random, chance happenings. Rather, they are moving us intentionally and certainly toward the predetermined end that God has already planned. This gives me confidence and hope, because nothing has been left to chance.
Reading: John 13:18=30
Reflection: It's interesting to note that, according to Jesus, even His betrayal happened according to God's plan. When Jesus tells the disciples that someone will betray Him, He also notes that this will happen to "fulfill the scripture." So, from Jesus' birth, to His baptism, to His betrayal, to His death, there isn't a single detail left to chance. Jesus may be handed over, but it will happen according to God's foreknowledge and plan.
This is actually encouraging to me. Unlike many people who read such statements and question whether or not they can trust a God who plans His own son's death, I read these statements and gain confidence that the world is not out of control. You see, the historical events that brought about our salvation were never left to chance. God has always known not only THAT I would be saved, but HOW and WHEN and WHERE that salvation would occur. Because God is unchanging in nature, that means that we are also moving toward the return of Jesus according to God's set plan. The events of our day are not random, chance happenings. Rather, they are moving us intentionally and certainly toward the predetermined end that God has already planned. This gives me confidence and hope, because nothing has been left to chance.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Showing The Full Extent Of My Love
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Reading: John 13:1-17
Reflection: It may initially seem odd that when Jesus wants to show the full extent of His love that He washes the feet of His disciples. After all, while we realize taking the role of a servant is a significant act of love, doesn't that pale in comparison to the journey from heaven to earth; from eternity to time; from spirit to body. Don't the many years on dusty roads teaching and healing seem a bit fuller expression than a few moments of washing feet. And what about the suffering of the cross. Surely that is more significant than washing feet.
However, what we read here is what many scholars call a dramatized parable. What this means is that through His actions, Jesus is actually telling the story of His entire life. Therefore, when He takes off His outer garments it pictures Him taking off His glory in heaven and exposing Himself to the very world He created. When He takes the towel and basin to wash feet, He is acting out the role of a servant that He took at His birth and will set aside at His resurrection. When He puts His outer garment on and returns to His original position, it shows Him returning to His position at the right hand of God.
Now, I can't prove that this is the case, but it makes sense. If this is true, then the full extent of His love is not found in one act of washing feet, but a total life of obedience to God's call to redeem the world. It includes His submission to His parents, His growing and learning as a man, His baptism and calling of disciples, His teaching, miracles and ministry, His death and resurrection. This also points to the fact that I don't show the full extent of my love to Jesus in one momentary act of heroic faith. Rather, the full extent of my love is revealed through a long walk of obedience in one direction. As I live out my faith in the day to day events of life, I am showing Jesus how much I love Him.
Reading: John 13:1-17
Reflection: It may initially seem odd that when Jesus wants to show the full extent of His love that He washes the feet of His disciples. After all, while we realize taking the role of a servant is a significant act of love, doesn't that pale in comparison to the journey from heaven to earth; from eternity to time; from spirit to body. Don't the many years on dusty roads teaching and healing seem a bit fuller expression than a few moments of washing feet. And what about the suffering of the cross. Surely that is more significant than washing feet.
However, what we read here is what many scholars call a dramatized parable. What this means is that through His actions, Jesus is actually telling the story of His entire life. Therefore, when He takes off His outer garments it pictures Him taking off His glory in heaven and exposing Himself to the very world He created. When He takes the towel and basin to wash feet, He is acting out the role of a servant that He took at His birth and will set aside at His resurrection. When He puts His outer garment on and returns to His original position, it shows Him returning to His position at the right hand of God.
Now, I can't prove that this is the case, but it makes sense. If this is true, then the full extent of His love is not found in one act of washing feet, but a total life of obedience to God's call to redeem the world. It includes His submission to His parents, His growing and learning as a man, His baptism and calling of disciples, His teaching, miracles and ministry, His death and resurrection. This also points to the fact that I don't show the full extent of my love to Jesus in one momentary act of heroic faith. Rather, the full extent of my love is revealed through a long walk of obedience in one direction. As I live out my faith in the day to day events of life, I am showing Jesus how much I love Him.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Some People Are Beyond Word And Deed
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Reading: John 12:37-50
Reflection: This passage is kind of telling...and in some ways pretty sad. Jesus tells us that "Even after he had done all these miraculous signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him." What a sad reality. We have here a large crowd of people (note that the "they" refers back to the crowd in verse 34) who are having trouble accepting Jesus' teaching. It would appear that this teaching was accompanied by miraculous signs that validated both what Jesus said and who Jesus was. However, the people would not believe either in what He said, or the works He performed to validate his personhood and instruction. Thus, it appears that there is little that Jesus can either say or do to create faith within this crowd.
This is the sad reality of our world. There are large groups of people who, regardless of what they see, hear, or even experience, will not place their faith in Christ. I don't know why that is, as there is no way for me to get inside the psyche of every person and diagnose some kind of clear mental block. This brings us back to the reality that it is the Holy Spirit who must both convict of sin and convince of truth. Until the Sacred Wind blows upon each person, bringing them to the place of faith, all we can do is faithfully live out, and speak out, the gospel of Christ. The fact that many do not come to faith may not be a sign of our failure. Rather, it could be a sign of the hardness of their hearts.
As disciples of Christ, our job is to walk faithfully before God and others. We are to love the lost, serve the lost, share the gospel with the lost, pray and sacrifice to reach the lost. However, once this is done we must also entrust them to the hands of God who alone has the power to save. And while many will be beyond reach of both word and deed, there will also be those who hear His voice, see our deeds, and come to faith.
Reading: John 12:37-50
Reflection: This passage is kind of telling...and in some ways pretty sad. Jesus tells us that "Even after he had done all these miraculous signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him." What a sad reality. We have here a large crowd of people (note that the "they" refers back to the crowd in verse 34) who are having trouble accepting Jesus' teaching. It would appear that this teaching was accompanied by miraculous signs that validated both what Jesus said and who Jesus was. However, the people would not believe either in what He said, or the works He performed to validate his personhood and instruction. Thus, it appears that there is little that Jesus can either say or do to create faith within this crowd.
This is the sad reality of our world. There are large groups of people who, regardless of what they see, hear, or even experience, will not place their faith in Christ. I don't know why that is, as there is no way for me to get inside the psyche of every person and diagnose some kind of clear mental block. This brings us back to the reality that it is the Holy Spirit who must both convict of sin and convince of truth. Until the Sacred Wind blows upon each person, bringing them to the place of faith, all we can do is faithfully live out, and speak out, the gospel of Christ. The fact that many do not come to faith may not be a sign of our failure. Rather, it could be a sign of the hardness of their hearts.
As disciples of Christ, our job is to walk faithfully before God and others. We are to love the lost, serve the lost, share the gospel with the lost, pray and sacrifice to reach the lost. However, once this is done we must also entrust them to the hands of God who alone has the power to save. And while many will be beyond reach of both word and deed, there will also be those who hear His voice, see our deeds, and come to faith.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Dying As A Means Of Gaining
Monday, March 14, 2011
Reading: John 12:20-36
Refelection: Jesus once again predicts His death. However, rather than running from suffering, Jesus recognizes that His death is within the purposes and plans of God for His life. Jesus also knows that if he follows God's will, then even His death will gain glory for God. So, while I'm pretty sure that Jesus didn't enjoy the idea of pain and suffering, He did realize that through His death the world could be saved, God's kingdom would be advanced, and the single grain of wheat would be multiplied over and over. So, Jesus submits to His death not as a means of losing His life, but as a means of gaining glory for God.
It is one of the paradoxes of the gospel that life is gained through death. It is through Jesus' death that we have life. In addition, it is through our willingness to lose our lives that we actually gain them. In this sense, as the disciple dies to himself, he or she actually gains the life of Christ. We gain the Spirit of Jesus that gives us guidance, protection and power for living. Our lives are drawn into the kingdom of God and gain additional meaning, value, purpose and impact. So, while it might seem like a sacrifice to die to ourselves, it is actually the way that greater life and purpose are discovered. So, as we die to ourselves, we are not seeking to lose our lives as much as we are seeking to gain God's greater purposes for our lives. We are dying as a means of gaining what really matters most!
Reading: John 12:20-36
Refelection: Jesus once again predicts His death. However, rather than running from suffering, Jesus recognizes that His death is within the purposes and plans of God for His life. Jesus also knows that if he follows God's will, then even His death will gain glory for God. So, while I'm pretty sure that Jesus didn't enjoy the idea of pain and suffering, He did realize that through His death the world could be saved, God's kingdom would be advanced, and the single grain of wheat would be multiplied over and over. So, Jesus submits to His death not as a means of losing His life, but as a means of gaining glory for God.
It is one of the paradoxes of the gospel that life is gained through death. It is through Jesus' death that we have life. In addition, it is through our willingness to lose our lives that we actually gain them. In this sense, as the disciple dies to himself, he or she actually gains the life of Christ. We gain the Spirit of Jesus that gives us guidance, protection and power for living. Our lives are drawn into the kingdom of God and gain additional meaning, value, purpose and impact. So, while it might seem like a sacrifice to die to ourselves, it is actually the way that greater life and purpose are discovered. So, as we die to ourselves, we are not seeking to lose our lives as much as we are seeking to gain God's greater purposes for our lives. We are dying as a means of gaining what really matters most!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Faithful In The Fog
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Week In Review: This probably seems odd, but as I look over this week's readings...and my personal reflections...the two things that stick in my mind is being faithful in community even when we don't fully know either the final destination or the motivations of people. This is much more difficult than it actually may seem. As a disciple, I am called not to live my faith in isolation, but rather as a part of a believing community. While this brings great resourced and support, it also comes with certain challenges. First, it means that I need to be involved in discerning not just God's will for my life, but the direction that God is leading my faith community. When this is done, then I need to be faithful to moving with that community...in the direction that community is moving...even though I may not fully understand why we are moving in that direction or the full motivations of all those within my faith community.
Now, this is not the same as being naive or passive in just going with the flow. It means that I must be relationally engaged with those within my community. I need to be praying individually and with my brothers and sisters in Christ to discern the direction God is leading us. It means that I need to express what I believe the Lord is speaking to me, while at the same time listening to what the Lord is communicating to others in my community. It means putting all of this together to hear God's voice and then respond in a supportive way to move forward with that faith community. As we do this, we grow vertically closer to God and horizontally closer to each other while we follow the Lord's will as best we understand it, always recognizing that at some level all the details and destinations may not be fully revealed. In this way, we move forward together, walking in faith, ever listening to the Lord and each other. As we are faithful in the fog, we will learn to trust God with the details as we move forward as He directs. This is not the easiest way to live, but it is the way God has given us...to be a faithful community who follows Jesus even when we don't fully understand every detail of the journey.
Week In Review: This probably seems odd, but as I look over this week's readings...and my personal reflections...the two things that stick in my mind is being faithful in community even when we don't fully know either the final destination or the motivations of people. This is much more difficult than it actually may seem. As a disciple, I am called not to live my faith in isolation, but rather as a part of a believing community. While this brings great resourced and support, it also comes with certain challenges. First, it means that I need to be involved in discerning not just God's will for my life, but the direction that God is leading my faith community. When this is done, then I need to be faithful to moving with that community...in the direction that community is moving...even though I may not fully understand why we are moving in that direction or the full motivations of all those within my faith community.
Now, this is not the same as being naive or passive in just going with the flow. It means that I must be relationally engaged with those within my community. I need to be praying individually and with my brothers and sisters in Christ to discern the direction God is leading us. It means that I need to express what I believe the Lord is speaking to me, while at the same time listening to what the Lord is communicating to others in my community. It means putting all of this together to hear God's voice and then respond in a supportive way to move forward with that faith community. As we do this, we grow vertically closer to God and horizontally closer to each other while we follow the Lord's will as best we understand it, always recognizing that at some level all the details and destinations may not be fully revealed. In this way, we move forward together, walking in faith, ever listening to the Lord and each other. As we are faithful in the fog, we will learn to trust God with the details as we move forward as He directs. This is not the easiest way to live, but it is the way God has given us...to be a faithful community who follows Jesus even when we don't fully understand every detail of the journey.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Faithful...Though Confused
Friday, March 11, 2011
Reading: John 12:12-
Reflection: This is probably a detail of little consequence. Yet, as I sit alone reading these verses, one of the phrases that sticks out to me is the one informing us that the disciples did not understand all this until after Jesus was glorified. Now, that seems to indicate that while Jesus fully realized what He was doing, what was going to happen, and what the ultimate result would be, the disciples are not picking these things up. They are like men walking through a fog...they know they are moving in a general direction, but are largely clueless about the larger scene.
It seems to me that much of discipleship requires this kind of movement. We would love to know...right here and right now...exactly what is happening, why it is happening, and how it is all going to work out. And yet, most of what we face on the spiritual level remains a mystery to us. The real test, then, is will we stop moving forward until we see all the answers, or will we keep moving as faithfully as possible, trusting along the way that Jesus will reveal what we need to know when we need to know it. I pray I can keep walking in faith, trusting that enough of the fog will be lifted to at least see the road in front of me.
Reading: John 12:12-
Reflection: This is probably a detail of little consequence. Yet, as I sit alone reading these verses, one of the phrases that sticks out to me is the one informing us that the disciples did not understand all this until after Jesus was glorified. Now, that seems to indicate that while Jesus fully realized what He was doing, what was going to happen, and what the ultimate result would be, the disciples are not picking these things up. They are like men walking through a fog...they know they are moving in a general direction, but are largely clueless about the larger scene.
It seems to me that much of discipleship requires this kind of movement. We would love to know...right here and right now...exactly what is happening, why it is happening, and how it is all going to work out. And yet, most of what we face on the spiritual level remains a mystery to us. The real test, then, is will we stop moving forward until we see all the answers, or will we keep moving as faithfully as possible, trusting along the way that Jesus will reveal what we need to know when we need to know it. I pray I can keep walking in faith, trusting that enough of the fog will be lifted to at least see the road in front of me.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Different People And Different Motivations
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Reading: John 12:1-11
Reflection: Sorry I have not been regular this week. I've kind of been under the weather and been trying to keep my head above water. Anyway, as I read this passage of scripture, one of the things that stood out to me are the variety of people around Jesus as He enters His last days. First of all, there is Mary whose primary desire is to adore and worship. It's interesting to note that she is the only woman in the story, and really the only one rightly motivated. She desires to give the best she has to glorify Jesus with little regard to what others may think or the long term cost to herself.
Second, there is Judas. He is the exact opposite of Mary in many respects. He does not desire to give a thing to bring glory to Jesus. In fact, it appears as though Judas simply wants to use Jesus as a meal ticket through life. He steals from the ministry's treasury and is upset that Mary didn't just give the perfume to Jesus so that he could have sold it and gained access to the proceeds. So, while Judas is physically near Jesus he is spiritually a long way away from Him.
Third and fourth there are the multitudes and the chief priests. The crowds are curious about Jesus, and the fact that this guy named Lazarus has been raised from the dead. They don't come to worship, they come out of curiousity to see if these fantastic claims are true. Finally, the chief priests are simply interested in destroying Jesus' ministry. For that reason, they are looking to kill Lazarus because so many Jews are starting to believe in Jesus because of him...and one would presume his testimony.
It seems today there are still many different people in the presence of Jesus, and many competing motivations for showing up. Some are seeking for ways to destroy the church through rumors and false allegations. Some are curious and desire a good show. Some think the church is a great place for building connections and a client base. And some, like Mary, are simply there to give their best worship for God's glory. It is my hope that this last motivation is the one that inspires you to show up in life and lift your praise to God.
Reading: John 12:1-11
Reflection: Sorry I have not been regular this week. I've kind of been under the weather and been trying to keep my head above water. Anyway, as I read this passage of scripture, one of the things that stood out to me are the variety of people around Jesus as He enters His last days. First of all, there is Mary whose primary desire is to adore and worship. It's interesting to note that she is the only woman in the story, and really the only one rightly motivated. She desires to give the best she has to glorify Jesus with little regard to what others may think or the long term cost to herself.
Second, there is Judas. He is the exact opposite of Mary in many respects. He does not desire to give a thing to bring glory to Jesus. In fact, it appears as though Judas simply wants to use Jesus as a meal ticket through life. He steals from the ministry's treasury and is upset that Mary didn't just give the perfume to Jesus so that he could have sold it and gained access to the proceeds. So, while Judas is physically near Jesus he is spiritually a long way away from Him.
Third and fourth there are the multitudes and the chief priests. The crowds are curious about Jesus, and the fact that this guy named Lazarus has been raised from the dead. They don't come to worship, they come out of curiousity to see if these fantastic claims are true. Finally, the chief priests are simply interested in destroying Jesus' ministry. For that reason, they are looking to kill Lazarus because so many Jews are starting to believe in Jesus because of him...and one would presume his testimony.
It seems today there are still many different people in the presence of Jesus, and many competing motivations for showing up. Some are seeking for ways to destroy the church through rumors and false allegations. Some are curious and desire a good show. Some think the church is a great place for building connections and a client base. And some, like Mary, are simply there to give their best worship for God's glory. It is my hope that this last motivation is the one that inspires you to show up in life and lift your praise to God.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
When The Really Dead Are Really Raised
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Reading: John 11:38-44
Reflection: I apologize to all of you who have been following this blog for not having an entry yesterday. I was, dare I say, dead to the world. I didn't feel well, and I suppose similar to Lazarus in our text today needed the voice of Jesus to rouse me from my condition. I am feeling better today, and am back among the living. Now, to Lazarus and Jesus' work in his life. One thing I notice here is that the death of his friend did not take Jesus by surprise. Jesus knew it was coming...and in fact allowed it not because Jesus enjoys seeing the pain of others but that through this event God might be glorified. So even death, in some strange way, can bring God glory.
Here in our reading today, it is noted that Lazarus had been dead for four days. That's a critical detail to a Jewish person of Jesus' day. You see, the Jews believed that the spirit of a dead person remained in the area for three days. During that time, it would be possible for a miracle worker...though rare in deed...to raise the person back to life. However, when a person had been dead for four days, it was believed that the spirit was gone, hope was gone, and the person was really, beyond all hope, dead.
And yet, when there was no hope...when Lazarus was really dead...when no miracle worker could bring him to life...Jesus steps up and restores the life of Lazarus. What this means is that the religious leaders need to say that Lazarus was not REALLY DEAD...which would deny their faith, or that Jesus must be God because only God could do this. So while it is great that Lazarus regained life, this story is not really about Lazarus at all. In this story the really dead is really raised in order that the Son of God might be seen for who He really is...God with skin on. Praise God that we serve not just a human example, but a divine savior.
Reading: John 11:38-44
Reflection: I apologize to all of you who have been following this blog for not having an entry yesterday. I was, dare I say, dead to the world. I didn't feel well, and I suppose similar to Lazarus in our text today needed the voice of Jesus to rouse me from my condition. I am feeling better today, and am back among the living. Now, to Lazarus and Jesus' work in his life. One thing I notice here is that the death of his friend did not take Jesus by surprise. Jesus knew it was coming...and in fact allowed it not because Jesus enjoys seeing the pain of others but that through this event God might be glorified. So even death, in some strange way, can bring God glory.
Here in our reading today, it is noted that Lazarus had been dead for four days. That's a critical detail to a Jewish person of Jesus' day. You see, the Jews believed that the spirit of a dead person remained in the area for three days. During that time, it would be possible for a miracle worker...though rare in deed...to raise the person back to life. However, when a person had been dead for four days, it was believed that the spirit was gone, hope was gone, and the person was really, beyond all hope, dead.
And yet, when there was no hope...when Lazarus was really dead...when no miracle worker could bring him to life...Jesus steps up and restores the life of Lazarus. What this means is that the religious leaders need to say that Lazarus was not REALLY DEAD...which would deny their faith, or that Jesus must be God because only God could do this. So while it is great that Lazarus regained life, this story is not really about Lazarus at all. In this story the really dead is really raised in order that the Son of God might be seen for who He really is...God with skin on. Praise God that we serve not just a human example, but a divine savior.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Glory Beyond The Pain
Friday, March 4, 2011
Reading: John 11:1-16
Reflection: This is an amazing passage of Scripture for a wide variety of reasons. As I take a superficial reading of this passage, let me shae with you some of my initial thoughts. I am not suggesting that these thoughts are the "central intended reason" this text is in the Bible. But, I do believe these lessons are present, not only in this text but in the whole of Scripture. First, we see that being loved by Jesus does not mean that I can avoid human suffering. Notice in this passage that Jesus knows full well that the situation before him will cause pain and confusion to Mary, Martha and likely Lazarus. Jesus also knows that this pain and confusion will utltimately result in God's glory. So, Jesus can prevent suffering at the sacrifice of God's glory or embrace God's glory by allowing suffering. Jesus rightly chooses God's glory, thus reminding me that my suffering may not always be an attack from the devil to trip me up. My struggle may be a result of God gaining glory through my pain. Since this is so, it is incumbant upon me to have faith in God and allow the pain in my life to drive me toward God rather than away from Him.
This passage also challenges my priorities and view of the world. In this culture, we view human life and joy as the highest value of all. This is called humanism. The idea is that because humans are the center of all things...because their advancement and well-being is the ultimate goal of life...that anyone or anything that would seek to damage humanity, or bring pain and suffering to people, must be a bad thing. Thus, if God allows suffering, many beleive that God is either dead or evil...for no good God would allow human suffering. However, God's ultimate goal is not human glory, but divine glory. God created us to advance His image, His glory, in this world. Thus, if our suffering advances His glory, God is acting consistent with that will. So what we see Jesus doing in this passage is to rise above His humanity to do what is ultimately divine...to allow suffering not so that people feel pain but so that God's glory is advanced.
These two lessons are hard for those of us who tend to think that pain and suffering are a bad thing. But, anything that brings glory to God is a good thing. Therefore, even pain and suffering are good things if in and through them my life exalts the name of God, advances His image in the world, and brings glory to His reputation. So while I never want pain, the real question is am I willing to accept it in order to bring glory to God?
Reading: John 11:1-16
Reflection: This is an amazing passage of Scripture for a wide variety of reasons. As I take a superficial reading of this passage, let me shae with you some of my initial thoughts. I am not suggesting that these thoughts are the "central intended reason" this text is in the Bible. But, I do believe these lessons are present, not only in this text but in the whole of Scripture. First, we see that being loved by Jesus does not mean that I can avoid human suffering. Notice in this passage that Jesus knows full well that the situation before him will cause pain and confusion to Mary, Martha and likely Lazarus. Jesus also knows that this pain and confusion will utltimately result in God's glory. So, Jesus can prevent suffering at the sacrifice of God's glory or embrace God's glory by allowing suffering. Jesus rightly chooses God's glory, thus reminding me that my suffering may not always be an attack from the devil to trip me up. My struggle may be a result of God gaining glory through my pain. Since this is so, it is incumbant upon me to have faith in God and allow the pain in my life to drive me toward God rather than away from Him.
This passage also challenges my priorities and view of the world. In this culture, we view human life and joy as the highest value of all. This is called humanism. The idea is that because humans are the center of all things...because their advancement and well-being is the ultimate goal of life...that anyone or anything that would seek to damage humanity, or bring pain and suffering to people, must be a bad thing. Thus, if God allows suffering, many beleive that God is either dead or evil...for no good God would allow human suffering. However, God's ultimate goal is not human glory, but divine glory. God created us to advance His image, His glory, in this world. Thus, if our suffering advances His glory, God is acting consistent with that will. So what we see Jesus doing in this passage is to rise above His humanity to do what is ultimately divine...to allow suffering not so that people feel pain but so that God's glory is advanced.
These two lessons are hard for those of us who tend to think that pain and suffering are a bad thing. But, anything that brings glory to God is a good thing. Therefore, even pain and suffering are good things if in and through them my life exalts the name of God, advances His image in the world, and brings glory to His reputation. So while I never want pain, the real question is am I willing to accept it in order to bring glory to God?
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Safe and Sound
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Reading: John 10:22-42
Reflection: When my youngest daughter was still very little, she refused to spend the night anywhere other than our home. She loved to visit friends and go to sleep over parties. However, when it came time to lay down and go to sleep, we knew that she would be calling to have us pick her up. For whatever reason, she just didn't feel secure enough to lay down, close her eyes and go to sleep unless she was at home. It was in our house, a place where she felt safe and sound, that she would relax and drift off into sleep. You see, its hard to put down your defenses unless you feel safe and sound.
In this passage Jesus reminds us as believers that we are, in fact, safe and sound in the arms of Christ. Jesus openly states not only the fact that His sheep know His voice and come to Him, but also that God the Father is greater than all. Because of that, no one can take us out of His hands. This means that while lots of tough stuff can happen to me in life, the one thing that can't happen is losing salvation. We can relax and rest in the arms of Christ, because we are safe and sound in His presence. He has granted us the true, spiritual rest in a complex world.
Reading: John 10:22-42
Reflection: When my youngest daughter was still very little, she refused to spend the night anywhere other than our home. She loved to visit friends and go to sleep over parties. However, when it came time to lay down and go to sleep, we knew that she would be calling to have us pick her up. For whatever reason, she just didn't feel secure enough to lay down, close her eyes and go to sleep unless she was at home. It was in our house, a place where she felt safe and sound, that she would relax and drift off into sleep. You see, its hard to put down your defenses unless you feel safe and sound.
In this passage Jesus reminds us as believers that we are, in fact, safe and sound in the arms of Christ. Jesus openly states not only the fact that His sheep know His voice and come to Him, but also that God the Father is greater than all. Because of that, no one can take us out of His hands. This means that while lots of tough stuff can happen to me in life, the one thing that can't happen is losing salvation. We can relax and rest in the arms of Christ, because we are safe and sound in His presence. He has granted us the true, spiritual rest in a complex world.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Being A Good Shepherd
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Reading: John 10:1-21
Reflection: Jesus is presented to us here not just as a shepherd, but as a good shepherd. As such, he does not come to steal, kill or destroy. Rather, he can be trusted by the sheep to do that which is good and right on their behalf. As I read this passage, it seemed to me that there are several marks of a good shepherd. First, they are present and relationally connected to the sheep. For this reason, the sheep recognize his voice and follow him because he is not a stranger. Second, the shepherd doesn't send his sheep head long into danger while following from behind. Rather, the shepherd goes out ahead of them. He leads not out of a desire to be in control but out of a desire to protect and guide. Third, the shepherd provides for the needs of the sheep. The sheep may not have all they want, but the do have all they need. He leads them out to pasture, and then brings them back to the safety of shelter in the evening. Finally, the good shepherd lays his life down for the sheep, pouring himself out to ensure their safety.
This is the kind of shepherd and leader we have in Jesus. It is also the kind of leader a dad is to be for his children, a husband for his wife, and a pastor for his church. We are to know those we lead, to pour ourselves out in order to provide for them and protect them. As we do this, we embody the nature and character of Jesus for those that have been entrusted to us. May all of us who lead in any way be found to be good shepherds.
Reading: John 10:1-21
Reflection: Jesus is presented to us here not just as a shepherd, but as a good shepherd. As such, he does not come to steal, kill or destroy. Rather, he can be trusted by the sheep to do that which is good and right on their behalf. As I read this passage, it seemed to me that there are several marks of a good shepherd. First, they are present and relationally connected to the sheep. For this reason, the sheep recognize his voice and follow him because he is not a stranger. Second, the shepherd doesn't send his sheep head long into danger while following from behind. Rather, the shepherd goes out ahead of them. He leads not out of a desire to be in control but out of a desire to protect and guide. Third, the shepherd provides for the needs of the sheep. The sheep may not have all they want, but the do have all they need. He leads them out to pasture, and then brings them back to the safety of shelter in the evening. Finally, the good shepherd lays his life down for the sheep, pouring himself out to ensure their safety.
This is the kind of shepherd and leader we have in Jesus. It is also the kind of leader a dad is to be for his children, a husband for his wife, and a pastor for his church. We are to know those we lead, to pour ourselves out in order to provide for them and protect them. As we do this, we embody the nature and character of Jesus for those that have been entrusted to us. May all of us who lead in any way be found to be good shepherds.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
If You Insist On Seeing, You Are Really Blind
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Reading: John 9:35-41
Reflection: Jesus makes an interesting statement that verifies one of the first steps toward salvation: the realization of and repentance from one's sinful condition. Within this story, Jesus states that He has come into the world to, in a sense, force people's hand. When a person comes into contact with Jesus, they either come to faith and are saved or reject His gospel and are judged. The way Jesus puts this reality is by stating that only those who confess their blindness can actually see, and those who insist that they have sight are really blind. The religious leaders have a problem with this, because they don't think they are blind at all...meaning that they see no sense in admitting guilt and confessing of sin because in their own minds they are the truly righteous ones. In response, Jesus assures them that they are not only blind but on the side of darkness and judgment.
This seems to teach me that if I insist that I am a pretty good person who simply needs some assistance in removing any limitations to allowing all my goodness to flow freely, I have lost the very salvation Jesus came to give. The reason for this is that salvation does not begin with the denial of reality regarding my personal sinfulness, but an open awareness of and confession concerning my utterly hopeless condition. It is only when I confess that I am a dark person that I can gain the light that Jesus brings. As we begin this day, let us search our hearts for darkness, place those dark areas before the Lord, and ask Him to help us see ourselves as He sees us. As we do this, we will walk in the light as He is in the light...and His truth shall set me free.
Reading: John 9:35-41
Reflection: Jesus makes an interesting statement that verifies one of the first steps toward salvation: the realization of and repentance from one's sinful condition. Within this story, Jesus states that He has come into the world to, in a sense, force people's hand. When a person comes into contact with Jesus, they either come to faith and are saved or reject His gospel and are judged. The way Jesus puts this reality is by stating that only those who confess their blindness can actually see, and those who insist that they have sight are really blind. The religious leaders have a problem with this, because they don't think they are blind at all...meaning that they see no sense in admitting guilt and confessing of sin because in their own minds they are the truly righteous ones. In response, Jesus assures them that they are not only blind but on the side of darkness and judgment.
This seems to teach me that if I insist that I am a pretty good person who simply needs some assistance in removing any limitations to allowing all my goodness to flow freely, I have lost the very salvation Jesus came to give. The reason for this is that salvation does not begin with the denial of reality regarding my personal sinfulness, but an open awareness of and confession concerning my utterly hopeless condition. It is only when I confess that I am a dark person that I can gain the light that Jesus brings. As we begin this day, let us search our hearts for darkness, place those dark areas before the Lord, and ask Him to help us see ourselves as He sees us. As we do this, we will walk in the light as He is in the light...and His truth shall set me free.
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