A Year in The Word

Know that he Knows

2012-09-24T11:54:00.001-07:00

Growing up I had this great fear that God was always looking over my shoulder. Because he knew everything, I worried that I somehow had to never make a mistake. When I grew older, I decided that since there was no way I could be perfect in my thoughts or actions, I might as well give up on thinking about God altogether. It never occurred to me that God may have been wanting to relate with me rather than obscurely observe and scrutinize my every thought and word. The simple truth of the matter is that God knows what is in our hearts and yet he chooses to love and embrace us. Consider the Daily Moravian Texts...
Psalm 109:1-7: 1 Samuel 14:41-15:23; John 2:12-25

Just like the clay in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand. Jeremiah 18:6 (NASB)

It is God who is at work in you, enabling you both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Philippians 2:13

Even though Jesus knew what was in the hearts of men, he still chose to embrace and challenge us. Unlike Saul, the first King of Israel who built a monument to himself, and disguised people pleasing and greed as worship, Jesus obeyed for our sake. He challenges us today still for our sake, lovingly disciplining those in the orbit of his grace so that we might demonstrate his character to the world.

Jesus is the answer to the question; "What is God like?" Because of this, I can see in Jesus actions and words a God who is not looking over my shoulder, but walking alongside me through daily life. The fact that this God knows what is in my heart has become a source of comfort rather than fear, for the work on my character is his and not my own. May you know that he knows you, and in the knowing, be freed from shame in relationship born of his continual love for you.

Moravian Daily Prayer:
Work in us, dear Lord. Shape us into the vessel of your will as we do your works of grace. Bend us into your likeness, Lord Jesus and may the Holy Spirit complete in us all your gifts.

In Jesus' name,
Amen

Invitation & Response

2012-09-20T17:13:00.002-07:00

I can't stand RSVP's. When I want them from others, I never seem to get them and when I'm asked to give one, I feel like someone is asking for my firstborn child (though to be honest, there are days I might actually be tempted to offer him up). The point is this, invitation requires response. We live in "facebookified" where invitations often go unanswered. Even now as I type there are several in my facebook inbox... glaring at me... wanting my attention. Rather than say no with our words we simply ignore them, like many other things in our culture.

The same phenomena occurs with the dreaded "check engine" light. I remember fondly our Toyota Camry, which I brutally murdered on the way to a wedding I was officiating by simply neglecting the oil pressure light. Don't' fret, a good friend picked me up so I made it in time to bind the young couple in marital bliss.

Have you ever paused to consider that our lives, the core our our soul, receives invitations as well. Not just for social gatherings or family events, but for remembrance and rest, love and acceptance, forgiveness and grace. Sometimes our stress level gives us "check engine" lights, like the sty I'm fighting off in my right eye now. If we choose to ignore them we face burn out and illness, or worse.

God loves to invite us to himself and gives us "check engine" reminders when we don't RSVP. Consider the Daily Moravian Texts...

Psalm 107:33-43; 1 Samuel 11,12; John 1:29-42

In the end of Samuel 12, Samuel invites God's people to "consider the great things he (God) has done..." Even in their disobedience in crying out for a human king God does not abandon them. He uses Samuel to continue his invitation to relationship, a "check engine light" for their souls.

When Jesus turned to confront two students of John the Baptist following him, he asked "what do you want?" and invited them to come and see. This is the question Jesus asks us as well. So... What do you want? Today? Right now? Jesus' invitation to you is to come and see how he lives, to "consider the great things he has done for you." And, when confronted with the check engine light of our honest state, we might trust that his invitation is not one we should ignore. May you confirm and RSVP for the life God has for you.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Bonus Verses & Prayer:
Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God shines forth. Our God comes and does not keep silence. Psalm 50:2-3

And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” Mark 1:9-11

Lord God, you shine forth your word and call us to express ourselves in worship to you. Cleanse us and bless us as we offer our lives in dedication to you. We love you Lord and are grateful for your unconditional love. We lift our voices to you and sing your wondrous grace. Your word amazes us, verse after verse baptizing us into your truth. With a thankful heart, we pray. Amen.

Words Matter

2012-09-19T10:22:00.001-07:00

In my vocation words are all around me. Words in old languages, the words of people's stories, hopes, fears, anger, etc... Words that are written, spoken, and sung. Words said and left unsaid. My life is full of conversations and I have learned of myself that my ability to listen well serves me far better than my ability to use the "right words."

While this is true in my church life, I am finding it especially important in my family life. As Gabriel comes home from school each day he desires to tell me all the things that happened to him. He wants to tell me about his friends and the stories they read and games they payed. I tend to get caught up on his behavior, whether he "clipped up" (a good thing) that day or if he "clipped down." And while his behavior is important, it is not the most important. I found that in focusing on one aspect of his experience I was missing all the relational things my son wanted to share with me in his words. My words were about behavior and his were about the whole of his life. Consider the Moravian Daily Text...

Psalm 107:23-32; 1 Samuel 10; John 1:14-28

I the Lord will speak the word that I speak, and it will be fulfilled. Ezekiel 12:25

The centurion said to Jesus, “Only speak the word, and my servant will be healed.” Matthew 8:8

The Word of God is for the whole of our lives, not just behavior. God wants to live life with us, that is why he came to live among us, to overcome our behavior with relationship. God wants to know the whole of your life as he wants you to know his. May we be people who listen. May our words come from our listening to God, one another, and our own souls. May they be words of the whole life, of healing, of grace and love.

Daily Prayer:
Speak Lord, your servants are listening. Let your voice resound, fulfilling all your purposes in the world today. Just as you spoke light into darkness and healing into pain, speak your word of truth again to an unbelieving world. Whisper your compassion and mercy, giving us ears of faith to hear.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Morning Light

2012-09-18T10:47:00.002-07:00

Ever had an ordinary day begin only surprise you as the fresh start of a new life season? There is something about the hopefulness of the morning light that has inspired generations of writers, sings, poets, and artists to reflect to us hope in a new day. While every morning may have the seeds of these opportunities, it seems that only a few times in a life will these seeds break through and bloom into something beautiful. Consider the Moravian Daily Texts...

Psalm 107:17-22; 1 Samuel 9; John 1:1-13

Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God. Psalm 95:2-3

Jesus said, “Give to God what is God’s.” Mark 12:17

God has this way of surprising us, while in the midst of the ordinary, with the extraordinary. He calls out ordinary men and women to become leaders of peoples, he breaks into our messy lives and brings order. Sometimes it breaks in at what would seem like the darkest point in our lives (here is a great song about that very idea on a cosmic scale).

The Gospel of John introduces Jesus in just this way. Light breaks into a dark world that can't comprehend who has come to bring life to us all. Jesus breaks into every life in the same way. Maybe it happens little by little as dawn begins to give perspective to the shadow-monsters of the night. This is the way faith broke into my life, a little at a time. Or maybe its like the shock of doors swinging open, releasing the full light of day, to flood a dark room. No matter how, it is the light that ushers in the new season. It is the light for which we are grateful.

Today is a new day and with it comes the seeds for a new season in your life. May you be mindful of the one who holds in Himself life that is the light of mankind. And may we all be expectantly grateful of the new season just around the corner because He loves us.

Daily Prayer:
You alone are good, O God. We give you all thanksgiving and praise! You alone are great, O Christ. We bow before you in humble adoration! May the joyous sound of grateful hearts never end as the strains of truth and trust resound in you, our Savior.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

But the Other Kids...

2012-09-17T09:36:00.001-07:00

My son Gabriel has reached the age where the actions and thoughts of othera matter... a lot. He just started a pre-kindergarten year at a local public school. After a few days of waking up at the creak of dawn, stumbling over to the counter and trying to pack him a lunch while making myself a cup of coffee, he says to me; "Daddy, I want to buy lunch at the school restaurant like every other kid." I wasn't sure if I wanted to laugh or cry. Partially because of the temptation to free myself from the entire lunch making process, but mostly because I know a fundamental change is coming. From now on, Gabe will give a certain attention to the actions, words, and possessions of others in his peer group.
I wonder if god feels the same way about us at times? Consider the Daily Mornavian Texts...

Psalm 107:10-16; 1 Samuel 7:2-8:22; Luke 24:36-53

When the wicked turn away from the wickedness they have committed and do what is lawful and right, they shall save their life. Ezekiel 18:27

Regard the patience of our Lord as salvation. 2 Peter 3:15

Even when Samuel warned God's people about the dangers of having a king "like every other nation" they still whined for one like ungrateful children. I am glad that God is patient with us. Despite our childish tendencies he is steady and consistent. He knows when what we want isn't good for us and, if we are open, will use the experience to teach us about ourselves and Him. May we be willing to gratefully embrace the "packed lunch" God has prepared for us rather than clamoring to be like all the other "kids."

Daily Prayer:
How patient you are with us, O God. Even while we were yet sinners, your salvation was won according to the fullness of time through our repentance and faith. Help us to be patient with one another and with the world, knowing that by your grace others will turn away from evil and come to you, good Lord. Amen.

Open Eyes & Burning Hearts

2012-09-15T12:57:00.001-07:00

Have you ever had an epiphany? Its an old Greek word that simply means an appearance. Sometimes it one can come when you are doing the dishes, on a run or walk, or studying a problem. You never know when something you have been turning around in your mind or heart will "click," connecting you to some greater reality or discovery.

For me, they often happen after I have gotten myself stuck trying to solve a problem on my own with no success. While I'd like to say my first response to any given problem is prayer and reflection, often it is not. This is a discipline God is working out in my life and some days I'm better at it than others. I'm in good company however, many of Jesus disciples had the same tendency. Consider the Moravian Daily Texts...

Psalm 107:1-9; 1 Samuel 5:1-7:1; Luke 24:28-35

The Lord lives! Blessed be my rock. Psalm 18:46

Come to Jesus Christ, a living stone, though rejected by mortals yet chosen and precious in
God’s sight. 1 Peter 2:4

The two disciples on the road to Emmaus had mulled over the events of the week, in Greek , literally debating or "tossing back and forth" the conversation. They had turned this over in their mind over and over with no luck in figuring it out. It Jesus himself opening their understanding of the scriptures as he walked with them on the road as a stranger.

When did they recognize him? Not when he gave them amazing teaching, or challenged their understanding. It was when the "were at table," sitting down for a meal as friends, when he began his regular practice of taking bread, giving thanks, breaking and passing it. It was here that the epiphany happened and their eyes were opened.

There are times when God wants to remind us that he with with us in the most intimate of spaces. A simple meal with a deep and rich significance. In order for the burning of our hearts to be recognized, our eyes must be opened to this simple truth.... God loves us and wants to be in the everyday life with us. From this place of trust we can see that the entire journey has not been one we have taken alone. Whatever you may be mulling over or thinking about, may you be mindful of God's presence with you and his ability to help you carry any load.

Daily Prayer:
Lead us to the rock that is higher than us, O Lord! Let our lives be forever in you. We come to you Jesus, our foundation and strength. Upon you we will build our lives. May we be steadfast in faith and the assurance of life unending.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Right Peace

2012-09-14T09:22:00.001-07:00

Did you know that there is a wrong kind of peace? Whether it be a peace ushered in by political oppression or the uneasy peace that happens when two sides are just too tired to fight any longer, the result us the same; hate and distrust fester. Consider the DailyMoravian Texts...

Psalm 106:40-48; 1 Samuel 3,4; Luke 24:13-27

Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him. Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other. Psalm 85:9,10

 Therefore, beloved, while you are waiting for these things, strive to be found by him at peace, without spot or blemish. 2 Peter 3:14

This morning I am mindful and mournful at the status of our world. Some here in the US have misused the beautiful gift or free speech in such a way as to rouse the uneasy tension in the Middle East, a place that has lived under oppression and in violence for the entirety of history. All politics aside, and from having watched the film in question; I can say my heart breaks at its content. Not because of any personal opinion about Islam or the "prophet," but simply because this incident has become an opportunity for those who hate the US to vomit hate in such a way that Innocent champions for freedom are murdered.

I was listening to an Imam on the radio condemn the attack saying that Islam teaches that the blood of the innocent should not be shed for someone else's action. By that reasoning any offended party would be just in killing the makers of the film. It was at this point in the program that I shut it off and thought long and hard.

I am grateful for Jesus. He has taught me not to return evil for evil, but to love my enemies and pray for those who persecute me (Matt 5-7). I am free, if I choose to be, from the cycle of hate and revenge that consumes the world. Jesus also taught me that I need not fear this world for he has overcome it (John 16). It is in this place that His Righteousness and His Peace "kiss" and I am free to live and love standing for justice without doing evil myself.

My prayer for all of us this morning is that we would learn to trade the uneasy peace and tainted self-righteousness of this world for the eternally secure peace and freely given righteousness that Jesus offers us.

Daily Prayer:

You are our salvation, righteousness and peace, O Christ. While we await your coming, fulfill in us your holiness so others may see and know that you are God. The time is now for faith and a holy fear that binds us resolutely to you. O spotless Lamb, take away the sin in us as you have taken away the sin of the world.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen.

Not My Best Day

2012-09-13T09:49:00.000-07:00

Ever had one of those weeks where you just can't muster up the best version of yourself? This week has been one of those for me. The stress of everyday life can sap us of our ability to listen, reflect, and live the way we would want. The fruit of the spirit in our lives can seem small. But God has this way of reminding us he is in it for the long hall. Consider the Moravian Daily Texts...

Psalm 106:32-39; 1 Samuel 2:12-36; Luke 24:1-12

The days of our life are seventy years, or perhaps eighty, if we are strong; even then their span is only toil and trouble. Psalm 90:10

What can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18

I have found that most of the issues that weigh me down are not eternal in nature... Money will come and go, people will sometime treat me poorly at work, I will have family fights. These things are unavoidable parts of a life that full of messy people, my own mess included. As a pastor the OT text for today reminded me that while Eli's sons had become self-serving, God had not forgotten his people. It also reminded me that a couple dropped administrative tasks are nothing in comparison to the mistakes these guys made. Maybe there is hope for me yet.

In the last line of the Gospel text we find Peter, after having made the biggest mistake of his life in denying Jesus, runs to the empty tomb. Jesus Came back for the Peter's of the world. Jesus came back for you and I so that we would know that even on our worst days, even when we are not the best versions of our self, he still has a plan and a place for us. May you have the best day, and even if it is not your best, know that tomorrow is another opportunity to love as Jesus loves and serve as Jesus serves.

Daily Prayer:
Our love for you, Lord Jesus, shall never die; nor shall we fall again under the curse of the enemy. Though now we see only in part, one day we shall see and know in the fullness of eternity. Through our belief, we live now and forever in your sustaining presence.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Making Justice

2012-09-11T11:41:00.000-07:00

It is the 11th remembrance of 9/11 today and it occurs to me that Justice is not found in revenge, nor is it found in destroying an army. Justice is found in stopping the cycle of violence and hate, oppression and systemic poverty. Consider today's Moravian Daily Texts:

Psalm 106:13-23; Ruth 4; Luke 23:32-43

Even before a word is on my tongue, O Lord, you know it completely. Psalm 139:4

The good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden. 1 Timothy 5:25 (NKJV)

Ruth and Naomi needed an intercessor to stand on their behalf and do what was right. They found such a man in Boaz. Though he was not first in-line to reclaim their property and set things right, he was willing to do what was right. He offered the first right to another who refused out of fear that his wealth would be shared. Boaz married Ruth, a woman disdained for her ethnicity, because it stopped the cycle of poverty in her life.

Jesus, while on the cross, gave forgiveness to a criminal that recognized the cycle and his own need to step out of it. God'd grace consistently brings God's Justice; the end to destructive human patterns.

In Afganistan we can defeat an enemy with bullets and drone strikes. The measure of our success however, will be in the number of schools we build, life improvements we make, and freedoms we bring. Theses are the weapons the stop the cycles. As a Christian, I am aware of God's work around me. I am also invited to change to world around me with how I live and love. May you be challenged today to love a Jesus loves and serve as he serves

Prayer of the Day:
Lord, in you alone we are an unstoppable force. Even when we think you are far away, you are so close. Even when we have hidden from you or run away, you are always there. We will not deny you any longer, but spread the word of your glory and goodness. Let our works magnify you among the peoples. Amen.

Oh, the Places You'll Go!

2012-09-08T10:20:00.001-07:00

Sometimes when I look at my kids, I see the adventures that they may have. I'd like to think that they will all be full of fun and joy, but the truth is... life is rough and the journey has "valley's of the shadow of death" (ps 23) strewn along the way. I don't know all the places my children will go? I don't know even know all the places I will go. Consider the daily Moravian texts...

Psalm 106:1-5; Ruth 1; Luke 23:1-12

For me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, to tell of all your works. Psalm 73:28

Those who serve well gain a good standing for themselves and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 3:13

Naomi (pleasant in Hebrew) didn't know that she would have to go the the country of Moab. She didn't know that her husband and two sons would die there, even though her sons names meant "sickly" and "weak." Okay, maybe she knew something was up. Noami had made a friend in Ruth (means friendship), a steady companion. In the same way Jesus went to the dark places in Herod's palace, and ultimately to the cross that we might be adopted into his family.

Jesus is our steady companion. No matter where we choose to go, or are taken by other forces, we are not alone. Today, as I consider the path of my children I need not worry for God has promised to be with them in sunlit fields or dark valleys. My job is simple, show them by the way I speak, live, pray, and love that Jesus is real and alive in our lives. May you have the courage to trust in God no matter what your circumstances are in this season.

Daily Prayer:

Let us be strong and courageous as we witness to your truth and grace, O God. No matter where we find ourselves, may we always abide in you. Jesus, as you went boldly to the cross, send us with confidence into the everyday places of life. Grow our faith as we serve and share.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Furrowed Brow

2012-09-07T09:11:00.000-07:00

I have always had a love hate relationship with discipline, especially when it is directed at me. Self discipline is even worse! Yet, I have found it an uneasy friend and guide in a course in wisdom. Consider the Moravian Daily Texts...

Psalm 105:37-45; Judges 20:32-21:25; Luke 22:63-71

In the path of your judgments, O Lord, we wait for you. Isaiah 26:8

When we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world. 1 Corinthians 11:32

Now, as a parent, I discipline my children out love and the desire to see the best for them. I see the bigger picture of their lives even as they see only now and what they desire. This has also helped me understand God's posture towards us.

Oh, my children... Gabriel, nearing 5, often voices his protest in a flurry whining and logical arguments for the injustice of my actions which, can be quite convincing and unsettling as I see the near future when he will be able to out-debate me like his mother. Neriyah on the other hand, more like myself in this manner, will turn inward. Her bottom lip will swell until double its normal size and her eyes will focus an intense beam of disappointment at either the ground or my face. Then using her supper-powered eyebrow furrow she will try to crush my resolve of correction with her extreme cuteness. Both Gabriel and Neriyah are a unique combination of traits I see in Michelle and I, sometimes coming together for the better while at other times, not so much.

How are you with God and his loving hand of discipline? The scripture is clear that God disciplines those he loves (Pr 3:11-12; Heb 12:6). This means that there are times that all of us will need a little pruning (Jn 15:2). Even as I am a sinful and selfish father, my love for my children wants the best for them. How much more is the love and care of our perfect and heavenly father? No matter how we whine, cry, or "stare down" God's discipline it is a tool for our good. Today, may you be blessed with the courage to embrace God in encouragement and in discipline.

Daily Prayer:
When you see fit to judge us, God, help us to remember your love and grace. Call to our minds the redemptive purposes of your discipline and the promise of eternal life. Thank you for training us so we shall forever be your children. Amen.

2012-09-05T08:19:00.001-07:00

Cut Off (Reflection from Moravian Daily Texts)

Psalm 105:16-22; Judges 19; Luke 22:39-51

The daily text this for this morning reminds me that violence begets violence. The violence I am thinking of may not alway be physical. A word can be just as violent as a rock or a stick. "Sticks and stones break my bones, but a word can never hurt me." Really? Tell that to the young girl who's reputation is ruined by a false rumor. Or, to the young man who takes his life because of the bully at school.

Have you ever notices that conflict tends to escalate? An insult today becomes tomorrows gossip, gossip gives birth to bitterness, leading to a long chain of "one-uping" each other until we are completely divided. It takes someone to break the cycle, someone to proverbially "take the bullet." In the OT text for today an entire tribe was "cut off" because of a single act of violence.

Even when Jesus' disciple cut off the ear of the servant, Jesus would not give way to escalating the violence. Jesus says "No more of this!' He healed in the face of his own arrest, torture, and murder.

Today, let us put away the violent escalation of the world around us and put on the attitude of Christ (phil 2). Whether we are cut off on the freeway or in a conversation, let us have the courage to release the debt and have a healing touch as Jesus has first healed us.

Reflection Texts for the Day:

Noah did all that God commanded him. Genesis 6:22

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds.
Ephesians 4:22-23 (NIV)

Daily Prayer:
Give us the courage to obey you, Lord, even when others don’t understand. Wash away the filth of this world in us, refreshing us with newness of life and purpose. As we put away our old selves, renew our minds by your presence and power, living joyfully in your grace. Amen.

2012-09-04T09:07:00.001-07:00

Faithfulness

From the Moravian Daily Texts

Psalm 105:8-15; Judges 18; Luke 22:24-38

The earth is full of the steadfast love of the Lord. Psalm 33:5

You know the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9

This morning I am mindful of how God is faithful in our lives even when we are not. Faithfulness is listed among the Fruit of the Spirit in Gal 5:22 because it is a characteristic of God that he wants us to share. As I reflect on the daily Moravian texts I see that Jesus prayed for Peter even before he was to deny him. His encouragement to Peter is...

"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." LK 22:31-32

Jesus took on the lowest of places and yet he was able to pray for those who would soon fail him. Even when we fall on our face, God is waiting to lift, strengthen our faithfulness, and send us out again to "strengthen our brothers."

No matter how your week, day, or hour has been God wants to use you to live out his faithfulness. Who are you going to strengthen today?

Moravian Prayer of the Day

How unshakeable are your ways of love and truth, O God. The earth abounds with your goodness and grace. As beggars we come, as kings we depart; richly blessed and filled with all good things from your hand. Amen.

Barbs & Thorns

2012-03-17T11:52:00.004-07:00

I have always wrestled with the violence of the Old Testament. It seems like someone is always getting killed, whether it be impaling by spear, or hacked with a Ass’s Jaw bone, or hit in the head with a rock, it’s a bloody story. It’s not even just the deaths that are gruesome, as the losing side may have their thumbs cut off or their eyes gouged out. I often Joke with people who talk about reading the bible to their children “quite before Gen 34.” You have to read to find out what I mean. When my wife, Michelle, reads the children’s Bible stories to my Son, Gabriel, I am often nudged into silence for grimacing or mumbling the exact details under my breath. Much like…

Michelle: “And Goliath fell on his face, and the people cheered for David.”

Me (whispering… of course): “… as he cut off Goliath’s head with his own sword.”

Gabe: “What Daddy?”

Me (after nudge):”oh I was just telling mommy something.”

I often do the same thing with Bible songs… email me for renditions.

The underlying question is this; How can God promote the kind of violence we see in the OT as he commands his people to “drive out” (involving a great deal of killing) nations? I am not talking about all of the OT violence. Most of the it, like that found in Gen 34 for example, is not “God approved.” These are simple the honest stories of stupid, and violent, things God’s people often do… still true today by the way.

Coming to this question as a parent has given me quite a different perspective. I would do anything to protect my children. God often speaks in parental terms to and about Israel. At times he disciplines them as a parent, and other times he protects them as a parent. His end goal however, was not just Israel but the whole world through Israel. God knows that we are easily distracted children who love to worship whatever is in front of us at the time. This is not good for us.

“But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then those of them whom you let remain shall be as barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides, and they shall trouble you in the land where you dwell.” Num 33:55

It seems to me that God has a great deal of patience in the scriptures for a multitude of hang-ups. There is one however that gets his “nostrils flaring” (the Hebrew word for anger), idolatry. He made us in his image and yet in idolatry we worship the image of something else. We make ourselves less than he made us to be leading us down any number slippery slopes, all ending badly for us. God’s parental protection and correction of Israel, which includes acts of Great violence, holds the eternal picture in focus. Eighty years of life may seem like a long time to us but to God and his plan, it is a mere blip on the screen.

What is it in our lives that God wants to completely “drive out” so that we might not fall into idolatry? God cares more about our character than our comfort. He is constantly calling us to drive out what is not of him and live out of the promised land, our new self in relationship with him.

God give us courage to life from the new, not allowing our old selves to become barbs and thorns in our ability to love you and reflect you to the world around us.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

Simple Lines - Num 26-27

2012-03-13T15:17:00.001-07:00

Though it might seem like an obscure line to comment on, Num 26:11 hits the heart of the entire story of Israel coming into the Promised Land.

“But the sons of Korah did not die” Num 26:11

You remember Korah right? Okay, so maybe we all need a little refresher. Back in Numbers 16, Korah prideful lead a rebellion against Moses thinking of himself more greatly than he ought. The earth opened and swallowed him up, thus making clear to the entire people who God had chosen to lead them. And while this was the end of the story for Korah, it was not the end of the story for his line. So, we find in Numbers 26, as the next season of life for Israel began this simple line.

Sometimes, it’s the simplest lines in the Bible that remind us of God’s redemptive power in the scriptures. They stand to remind us that God can indeed “make beautiful things out of the dust,” as Michael Gungor’s song goes. These lines tell us that God can take the most embarrassing story, the most disgusting sin, the most tragic tale in our lives and make it into something beautiful.

While Numbers 26-27 tells us of Joshua’s success and faithfulness, it also reminds us in one simple line that God hadn’t forgotten the failures. The forty years were up and the only ones left alive of the generation were Moses, Caleb, and Joshua. “But the sons of Korah had not died;” a statement hope of the next generation. The story of the “sons of Korah” does not end there. For, as is his pattern, God uses failures and fools to do great things.

The second book of Psalms, beginning with Psalm 42, contains a group of Psalms entitled “of the sons of Korah” (Ps 42-49, 84-88). Among these lines you will find some of the most famous in the Psalms… Line like “as the deer pants for the water, so my soul longs for you” (Ps 42:1). Or, “Be still and know that I am God.” (Ps 46:10).

Have you failed? Have you come from a family with a less than shining history? God loves you and wants to redeem your story. Today, in you through Jesus, He wants to demonstrate hope for the future by cutting off the old and blessing you to the thousandth generation!

Father, thank you for your grace today. Draw us to the simple lines that tell us of your love. Help us to see ourselves in light of your mercy and begin anew like the sons of Korah.

In Jesus’ name,

Insanity - Num 23-25

2012-03-10T14:20:00.004-08:00

Have you ever heard the saying; "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results"? While many misquote it as if from Benjamin Franklin, Mark Twain, or Albert Einstein it was actually written by Narcotics Anonymous in the early 80's. But that is how it is with quotes isn't it? Especially the proverbial "out-of-the-park" home run quotes. We hang the deepest truths to come from the smartest and brightest people, when they are at the top of their game. Instead, many of the deepest truths in life surface from those who are at the end of their rope; not famous, or polished, maybe their life is falling apart around them, or they are making the biggest mistakes of their lives. Life is this way.

In Balak’s desperation I see a hint of what NA had stumbled upon in describing insanity. He believes that God could be swayed into taking his side by moving to a different mountain. He had completely missed who God is and his purpose. With each attempt to curse Israel, he solidified his opposition to God’s will. Can’t we be like this? We try over and over in our prayers to sway God to our will, at times missing his. Unlike Balak, those who follow Jesus come to God as children needing correction in our thinking.

God understands our tendency to “spin our wheels,” trying to sway him to our own will rather than listening for his. While we may experience it as “insanity,” though true insanity is far darker and deeper, it is a normal human experience. We have all been in this position at some point in our journey. Consider these poetic words of C.S. Lewis:

“He whom I bow to only knows to whom I bow

When I attempt the ineffable Name, murmuring Thou,

And dream of Pheidian fancies and embrace in heart

Symbols (I Know) which cannot be the thing Thou art.

Thus always, taken at their word, all prayers blaspheme

Worshiping with frail images a folk-lore dream,

And all men in their praying, self-deceived, address

The coinage of their own unquiet thoughts, unless

Thou in magnetic mercy to Thyself divert

Our arrows, aimed unskillfully, beyond desert;

And all men are idolaters, crying unheard

To a deaf idol, if Thou take them at their word.

Take not, oh Lord, our literal sense. Lord, in Thy great,

Unbroken speech our limping metaphor translate.”

A footnote to all Prayer – C.S. Lewis

Father, free us from the insanity of doing the same thing over and over again. Let us listen to your voice and bend freely to your will in our lives that others might see your grace in love, rather than our own calculating and scheming, in our ways.

In Jesus’ Name

Smart Donkey, Stupid Man - Num 22

2012-03-07T09:42:00.001-08:00

Recently, I've been reflecting on how God speaks to us and how we listen or, more accurately, our lack of listening. Balaam had heard from God, case closed. He was told not to go with the princes of Balak, yet when they persisted in asking him, he allowed them to stay the night rather then sending them home.

"Then the Lord opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, with his drawn sword in his hand. And he bowed down and fell on his face." Num 22:31

This tells me two things. First, like Balaam, we can be pretty thick headed with God, pressing him in prayer even when we may know that what we are pursing for our own gain is not in line with his kingdom value. I remember tryingevery possible way to get around a set of circumstances set between me, and a positioning I was pursuing a few years ago. It was clear that I was not the right fit for the role, even to me. In pressing I came to a point in which my wife said to me; "Jeremey, let it go. This isn't good for you." Now, Balsam had a donkey straighten him out. So I'm grateful God saw fit to use my beautiful and intelegent wife to bring me to.my sences. God had another position that was the perfect fit waiting just around the "summer."

Secondly, God will allow us to stumble around and spin our wheels. Its not that he dosent tell us, its just that we tend not to listen. God allowed Balaam to go his own way... for a while. God is not in the business of controlling us, nor will he simply let his children run wild. Rather he lets us know his will and gives us freedom to chose obediance. And while his hand of discipline may feel heavy at times, it comes from a father who loves us. He lets us fail, but he will not abandon us.

Lord, help me today to listen to you, being sensitive to the movement of your kingdom and obedient to my role as your child.

In Jesus name,

Follow Directions (Num 20)

2011-08-24T15:17:00.000-07:00

Have you ever let your anger get the better of you? If so, you are in good company. Moses, Peter, David all made choices from anger that misrepresented what God was up to. Unchecked anger tends to cloud our judgement and often keeps us from seeing what is going on around us from Gods perspective. Paul Quotes Psalm 4:4 and adds his own comments when he says...

“don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. Ephesians 4:26-27

Moses had spent years pleading to and for the people of Israel. They had complained agains him constantly, rejected God's instruction, and disobeyed his direct commands. When they first begun their journey (Ex 17), God told him to strike the rock (a foretaste of what would happen to Christ for us). But now, back where they has started, God told him to speak to the rock (Num 20). It would seem like such a small difference, Moses only deviated a little. The story began the same... The people grumbled and Moses turned to God for the answer. But, Moses didn't listen for the answer to today's problem.

When we let anger get the best of us we allow ourselves to become self-centered rather than God-centered. Even our most noble anger, when acted upon in a way that doesn't represent the big picture of the Kingdom of God, becomes about us. Moses paid a hefty price, he was no longer permitted to lead the people into the promise land. What might we miss out on when we let our actions misrepresent God in our anger.

May we be people who follow the direction of Jesus both when we are angry, and when we are at peace, so that the world may rightly see the character and love of God through us.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

Wanting (Num 16)

2011-08-17T10:55:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been thinking lately about coveting. Its the last on the list of the ten commandments and we rarely hear much about it. Its easy to talk about killing, and stealing at a distance, but desiring what another has hits us far closer to home. I think it was a friend and fellow pastor, Bill Dogterom, who once told me "The tenth commandment is the gateway to the other nine." Sadly, much of our culture has settled for desiring what another has as a motivation for work, social interactions, and general worldview.

We need simply to examen our own thought life throughout the course of a day to see how tempted we are to desire what another has. It may spring up at the good fortune of a friend, the stranger who races by in the fancy car, or the promotion of a colleague. It may surface as a twinge we are only slightly aware of, a word of criticism, or a sarcastic remark.

Such was the case with Korah and Moses. Korah saw Moses influence and authority as human oppression rather than divine provision. He saw Moses the leader, but did not stop to consider the eighty years of training that formed the man whom the scripture calls "the most humble man on the face of the earth." Korah didn't learn leadership and diplomacy over forty years as member of the Egyptian royal court, he didn't learn humility and faithfulness over forty more years as a shepherd in the wilderness, and he wasn't called by God to lead the people. He acted from his desire and became "insolent" stirring up rebellion among hundreds of community leaders. Had not Moses pleaded with God, it could have cost the people of Israel everything.

I can't help but wonder what Korah's future could have been like had he been patient. Maybe he would have learned from his time in the wilderness and formed a character that was ready to lead. It was not the "big commandments" that were his undoing, it was the last on the list.

May we have the patience to examen our hearts, putting them before God moment by moment, that we may be humbled like Moses growing in the character to lead.

Faith Takes Guts (Num 13-14)

2011-08-10T10:45:00.000-07:00

A friend once said that faith is not about having the right answers, its about having guts. All throughout the scriptures we see examples of men and women given the opportunity to step out... Noah building a giant boat on dry land, or Moses telling a king what to do, Ruth leaving her homeland to live with the people of God, Rehab risking her life for foreign spies, and who could forget Peter stepping out of a boat onto the rough waters... etc, etc. All of these people have one thing in common, guts. They didn't know for sure what was going to happen after they acted. There was no committee to study their issue and present a position paper. They simply were invited by God into a relational act of trust and they all obeyed.

Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, "We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it." Num 13:30

This week at my home congregation I am teaching on God and circumstance. Circumstances are funny things as we can either see them as opportunities or barriers. I hear Christians talking all the time about doors and windows opening and closing, but rarely do I hear people honestly talk about "the thing" they are called to do but are afraid to do it. I am convinced that God loves an underdog. I think its because in using ordinary people to do extraordinary things the world can't explain away, though it may try, the miraculous God is up to.

Caleb had just returned from forty days of exploring the promised land. He and Joshua saw past the giants and walled cities. They saw God's invitation and promise. Ten others, whose names we never seem to remember even though they are listed with Caleb and Joshua, grumbled at the circumstances and stirred up rebellion among the people such that all of Israel was kept from living in the land. A forty year sentence in the desert, one for every day of exploration.

The question is simple, which are you going to be? Will we see past the circumstances, face our fear, and step out of the... desert, boat, car, position, home, etc? Or, will we grumble at the circumstances, deny our fear, and stay home? May you be blessed with guts to hear and obey.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Rebellion & Humility (Num 12)

2011-08-09T10:49:00.000-07:00

Why is humility so hard for us to grasp? Martin Luther once said; "True humility does not know that it is humble. If it did, it would be proud from the contemplation of so fine a virtue." Another way I've heard is said; "The fastest way to cure a man of humility is to tell him he is humble." The Bible is full of humble people, but it says of Moses...

"Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the Earth." Num 12:3

In the midst of his brother's and sister's grumblings he maintains a humble posture. Aaron and Mariam were jealous of their brother and began to undermine his authority. God struck Miriam with leprosy in anger and Moses pleaded for his Sister, who moments before had been attacking him. Moses continually did the same for the entire people of Israel despite there constant state of rebellion.

We are wired for rebellion. It is in our nature to be self-centered, we need only read the daily news to see the evidence. Yet, there are gleaming flickers of other-centeredness. Sometimes they come from followers of Jesus, sometimes not. The scriptures teach that all humanity was made in God's image, that we all bear the signature of our maker. By choosing to learn of good from evil through disobedience rather than obedience we became defined by rebellion. While our rebellion has marred that signature, there are still flickers of love and kindness, traces of our makers intent.

Jesus came not to simply "clear our name," changing our circumstances as Moses did for Miriam. This would be simply a first order change, a shift in the external. God's desire for us is that of a second order change, an change in our very nature. Jesus came to put our rebellious self to death, raising up a new self born in humility (John 3). I can't remember where I heard it, but may favorite definition of humility goes something like this... Humility is seeing God for who he is, and seeing our selves in light of that fact.

The fact that God ascribes to us unsurpassable worth, calls us to do the same for others (Philippians 2). May we invite Christ to put rebellion to death and become truly other-centered today and everyday.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Traveling Light (Num 7-11)

2011-07-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

Did I ever tell you that I'm a traveller? When I was younger, I travelled a great deal. While many of my friends spent their money on cars and electronics, I was off to see the world. To be honest, part of me was Jealous when friends would buy new cars or when one of my best friends, Ike, bought his first condo. All I had to show for my early twenties were stamped pages on a passport, and a few photographs from far off lands. As time passed and friends finished college and "settled down" I felt this nagging feeling I was falling behind. I didn't have an asset to my name, save a beat up old 85 GMC Jimmy that my friend George lovingly called Big Red as he repeatedly brought her back to life with parts from his dealership.

What I didn't notice at the time, but have since some to value, is that many of my friends in their "settling down" were taking on loads that weighed them down. In some cases the stresses of material life prevented them from emotionally and spiritually growing past the limits of their possessions, or the pursuit there of. I also noticed that my memories of trips with friends have far outweighed the memory of any new car... I'd imagine since I've never had a truly new car. But, I do remember the little Opal rental car in Spain that my friend Tim couldn't drive because he is to tall and had to sit with passenger seat all the way back so it was touching the back seat. Or perhaps the rickety safari van that blew three tires in two days as Glen, a second chance dad in my life, and I traveled the Serengeti plain. These memories are part of a treasure of experiences that has made me who I am. It has been a great journey, with great people that God has brought into my life.

The most valuable lesson I learned in that season was to travel light. First, in a literal sense, do you know how much time and worry you save when you fly with a backpack rather than a suitcase? The less you carry to easier it is to get up and go... anywhere. Sometimes, I think we "put down roots" near the wrong wells. A bad relationship, a mortgage we can't afford, a vocation that doesn't suit us... all because of this roaring voice that says "you don't have enough! You are falling behind! your future isn't secure!" Maybe its because we act before our character has formed enough to know the good wells from the bad, or maybe we out-grow the range of possibilities we set for in our youth. Maybe this was the problem with the rich young ruler Jesus invited to sell his earthly possessions. Jesus knew he was so tied by them that he could never live freely. He says in another place...

"those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples."
Luke 14:33

In Greek the literal wording goes something like this... "Those of your who do not give up you claim to everything that you have come underneath to hold up, will not have the ability to learn from me." What are we holding up? Can you feel the weight of it? What keeps us so occupied that we loose the ability to rest or listen to God.

I'd like to say that I intentionally traveled light but I have never been that thoughtful. In fact, some of my most painful mistakes I made came from times I tried to "catch up" with my friends. But that wasn't the right plan for me, it didn't fit what God was working into my life. He has crafted a character from both positive and negative to uniquely fit me. As I reflect now, I believe God knew, and knows, exactly what I need to learn the postures of gratitude and obedience needed to listen to his voice.

In Numbers 11 God leads his people with a cloud that rests over the tabernacle, a fancy word for the meeting tent where God met with man. When the cloud moved, the people moved. Sometimes it stayed for a single day, and sometimes it stayed for a year. They never knew when it would move. They would have to always be ready to break camp and follow. I am convinced that God did this in order to teach his people to travel light. The key is in the not knowing what is next. They had to learn trust from following, as do we.

Daily following does not mean that we don't put down roots, It simply means that we put down roots in wells that giver life and won't hold us back in following God. It means that we are constantly ready to give up claim to everything, realizing that everything is God's and we will take the most joy from it when we are using "our possessions" how he would have us use them. Are we able to follow the cloud in our lives? My memories of Opals and safari vans, My relationships with Tim and Glen will go with me when I leave this life. Big Red will not.... at least I hope not, I sure don't want to drive a red 85 GMC Jimmy in heaven. May we all learn to travel light.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

In The Desert (Num 1-6)

2011-06-07T09:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, I’ve been avoiding the book of Numbers. It isn’t that I think its boring or dull as others have suggested, rather I find Numbers a challenging book to write on. It seems to me that among its pages we find our own story, the story of the human condition full of stumbles and strife. After some careful consideration and prayerful reading and rereading I am ready to jump in with a few thoughts.

First, we get the name Numbers from the Numbering of the Israelites in the first chapters of the book. The numbering and layout of the camp is the same as military camps of that day. Even from the beginning of the book, we see that the path to the promise land is not going to be an easy road, but one filled with battles. That hasn’t changed for us here and now, the path of faith is full of battles. The scriptures teach us..

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Ephesians 6:12

I prefer the Hebrew name for the book of Numbers, Bemidbar or “In the desert”. Have you ever found yourself in a spiritual desert? Dry, wondering if God was there, or if he liked you? Even though he had just done amazing things on behalf of the Israelites, they seem to immediately forget and sink back into fear. The same is true of you and I as well, its part of the human condition. We forget… wait what was I talking about?

Recently, the past three years or so, I’ve taken up the discipline of writing down the stories of what God has been up to in my life. Not for some amazing memoir or anything like that, but simply to keep me from forgetting or trying to explain away what he has done. For example, I’d forget that the first rain of the season came on the day that Gabriel was born, and again the day that Neriyah was born, reminding me that they are a gift and despite the difficulty of their births God was with us. I’d forget how God brought the first mission partners of what would become Radiant Church, to Westminster Lutheran Church of Hope as I was preaching my last sermon. I could go on and on.

I have learned that drinking deeply from the wells of these experiences carry me through the dry desert seasons of life. Numbers is a story of the desert and how forgetful and fickle we are. Will we choose to remember what God has done on our behalf, what God has used us to do in the lives of others, and how he is speaking to us today, so that tomorrow we will have what it takes to walk through the desert? May you be blessed today with a long memory of blessing.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

Holy (Lev 16-27)

2011-05-13T18:44:00.000-07:00

What does it mean to be holy? When I think of the word I imagine stained glass, candles, and old books with pages that smell of dry paper and dust. I can smell the oil Crystal, my favorite of the old guard alter guild ladies from the church of my youth, used to clean the railings. I remember the fear she placed in me that the sanctuary was holy and there was to be no horsing around therein. Even when she was threatening my life, there was a kind wink that would inevitably ease my fears just enough to know she cared deeply for me and was trying to teach me something special.

As I read the scriptures I see both similarity and drastic difference in holiness. Over again God says in Leviticus, "be holy for I am holy." In jewish culture and language it simply means separate. "Be set apart from everyone, everything else. Much like Crystal tried to teach me that the Church building was to be separate, different from ordinary space. This is the similarity. Holiness means different.

But what should be holy? Is it a tabernacle? A special sacrifice? A building, or a railing, a special garment or cloth? Are these items holy because there is something special about them or do they become holy because we separate them? What was God trying to teach us? Or maybe he is still teaching us the same lesson...
"Be holy because I am holy."

Just as holy as the sacred space is the dirty, smelly sheep that lives in the lower room of the family home. The holy invades the ordinary as a reminder that it isn't about the stuff, but about you and I. We are what is holy. This is way Romans 12 reminds us that we are to live life as a living sacrifice to God and 1 Peter reminds us that we are Gods House of living stones.
"Be holy for I am holy"

The people of the bible, much like us, often forgot that what God was trying to teach them in a pattern of living was not about the rules in particular, but the lesson that to be holy, set apart, is to live in such a way that the nations around them would see God through them and come to worship him. The Jewish Law has more accommodations and inclusions for welcoming the foreigner than any other of its time. It has more accommodations for caring for the poor and preventing injustice than any other I have read. This is what it means to be holy....

‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40

How are we living differently than the world around us so that they, as we live among them, see God in the way we live and love? May you be holy as God is holy.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Sacred vs Secular (Lev 8-15)

2011-05-06T10:37:00.000-07:00

Were Holy and Worldly meant to be separate? As I reflect on my personal piety it seems I place this divide between the sacred and the secular. I frame my world into two distinct categories... my quiet time is sacred, but listening to world events on the news is secular. My morning and evening prayers are sacred, but going for a run or letting Jillian Michael's punish me on the video screen is secular. You get the picture. I would venture to guess, your daily experience is similar to mine, and as it is with my own experience... every once in a while, the sacred breaks into the secular life. Something bursts in and disrupts our regular pattern. You are struck by warmth in the greeting of the cashier at McDonald's, or your child embraces you and says "I love you," or you think about something normal in a new way. All these pull back the curtain just a little and remind us that there is a whole lot more going on in the world than we are aware of. What if our lives were never meant to be so fragmented?

In reading Leviticus I am struck by the level of detail in God's instruction for both the "sacred" ordination of priests, and the "secular" care of regular household items. It would seem that laws to protect people for the spread of disease are placed right next to those that govern the worship life of Israel. It strikes me that God was training his people to live an integrated life. Everything is spiritual. While we have come a long way in understanding hygiene and basic health, we seem to have lost the sense that how we interact with everything and everyone has a drastic effect on our relationship with God and our representation of him to the world around us.

Over the past year, one of our Mission Partners at Radiant has been reaching out to a Jewish family, Steven and Robyn, that lives across the street. Steven was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer, one of the worst you can have. Lenny, our Mission Partner, took them one of the stained glass angels we give to those in need of prayer. They were so touched by our prayers that they came to thank us. In an effort to make them feel comfortable among us, I prayed in Hebrew on the Sunday's they visited. They remarked at the sense of reverence I had for our roots in Judaism. Over time, they have come to Radiant periodically for prayer, and with each visit the news got better and better. A few weeks ago they came again with news that his cancer numbers had reached remarkably low numbers and they were going to do a surgery that only one in ten thousand with his type and severity of cancer ever get to. They asked me to come and pray for them at the hospital before his surgery. Again, I prayed a simple Hebrew prayer of healing over him and asked God to heal him in the name of Jesus, who fulfilled the Passover, which was to take place two days after the surgery. As far as I know the cancer is gone and the doctors have called his case a miracle. Robyn left me a messages saying that she knew the prayers of Radiant Church made a difference.

What if God has wanted us to see the sacred in the secular all along? Steven and Robyn are experiencing an in-breaking of the sacred because Lenny was bold enough to invite them for prayer. I am convinced that scriptures teach us about a God who would have us see every circumstance, every interaction, and every opportunity with eyes and hearts tuned into the sacred. God is inviting us to frame the two together, secular and sacred, in such a way that people see the ministry of God in the authority and name of Jesus through our prayers, words, and deeds. May you break free from a fragmented life today and enjoy what God has in store for you.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

Reading Plan:

May 3rd – Leviticus 1-4

May 4th – Leviticus 5-7

May 5th – Leviticus 8-10

May 6th – Leviticus 11-13

May 7th – Leviticus 14-15

May 8th – Worship

May 9th – Leviticus 16-18

May 10th – Leviticus 19-21

May 11th – Leviticus 22-23

May 12th – Leviticus 24-25

May 13th – Leviticus 26-27

May 14th – Day off for prayer