Kingdom Bites

Lessons from Marriage

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Sun, 22 Feb 2015 07:01:00 -0600

It was a cold and snowy winter’s night, thirteen years ago, that I wed my best friend. Yes, today (February 23) Andrea and I celebrate thirteen years of Marriage. And at least a few of those days have been filled with wedded bliss.

I married young, just a few days before my 22 birthday. Although I have been married 38% of my life, and have known Andrea for 50%; I must admit, marriage still confounds me. I tell the couples in pre-marital care classes that marriage has to be an institution the came from the mind of God.

For who in their right mind would decide that a man and woman, who came from totally different backgrounds and experiences should come together for life and raise a family. Yes, it does sound a little bit crazy.

In fact, the Apostle Paul thought so to. Listen to how the Apostle Paul describes it in Ephesians 5:32 “This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church.” The Apostle Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit calls marriage a mystery. ——— But why? Why would he do this?

Because marriage is so much more than two people living together. Instead, it is the joining of two lives into one. But even more amazing than that —> Marriage is an illustration, a living word picture of how Jesus Christ loves His Church! How He Loves You!

It is through this special union of husband and wife that God chooses to reveal Himself to the world. Ephesians 5:32 tells us, that a chief purpose in God creating marriage was to provide a living word picture for all to see His Perfect Love for His Imperfect Bride.

This is a foundational reason why marriage matters. Why, as children of Kings of Kings, we should care, protect, support, and honor marriage. Our own marriage, and the union of others.

As a husband loves his wife with an unconditional, sacrificial, love of action, especially when she may not deserve it. This love points to love much different than most are used to; it displays a love much greater than one is capable of having themselves. This Love points to Christ’s love for us.

As a wife respects and submits to her husband with the same unconditional, sacrificial, love of action, this too illustrates how the Church, the people of God, are to respect and submit to the headship of Christ. — Marriage is not about you or me — like everything else in life. Marriage is all about God, and His rescue, redemption, and restoration of people everywhere.

Jesus said in John 13:5 “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” I John 4:19 says “We love because he first loved us.” This type of love and respect husbands and wives are to have for one another — can never flow from within their own spirits. Rather, it must flow from Christ’s; from His love given to us. From a daily bathing in His grace, mercy, gospel, and love.

And as His Spirit, the Holy Spirit, applies this great love to our hearts, he enables us to extend it to others — even our spouse. As we do, the world watches and in a tangible way sees true love, God’s love for them. Marriage by a mystery, but one that points to something much greater than ourselves — the love of Christ.

Yet, marriage not only teaches the outside world Christ’s love; our own marriage teaches us. This is what God has gracious done in my life over the last 13 years. He has used our marriage to draw myself and Andrea into a deeper understanding and appreciation of Christ’s Love and Sacrifice, as well as my sinfulness and redemption.

I realize that I have only begun to mine depth of the wisdom found in marriage that many of you carry — but would like to sharing few things God has taught me through my marriage.

In my marriage I have learned… the depth of God’s forgiveness. Daily I see Andrea extending me forgiveness, when I do hurtful things or stupid things to her. Even when I do the same things to her over again, she forgives me. I don’t deserve it; but she does it anyway. How I daily need to extend her forgiveness; even when she does hurtful, stupid, same things to me. I forgive her. She doesn’t deserve it; but I need to do it anyway.

This regular pattern reminds and teaches me about Christ’s forgiveness. How He forgives willingly all the hurtful and stupid things I do time and time again. How I never deserve it —> but He does it anyway; and how His forgiveness is far sweeter then anything on earth.

In my marriage I have learned… the wideness of God’s Grace. Daily I see Andrea extending me grace when I am crabby, stressed, or in a bad mood. How she chooses to look at the positive side of things, extending me love and understanding; even when my action and attitudes don’t deserve it. It has shown me how I need to treat her the same way.

This too has taught me how wide God’s Grace is; for there is nothing too large it can’t cover, nothing I have done that He will not forgive; even if I wouldn’t forgive it, He will. It reminds me how I do not deserve anything He has, is, or will do for me.

In my marriage I have learned… the expanse of God’s Love. I have seen Andrea’s love stretch much further than I thought possible; reaching over my sin, selfishness, and stupidity. I have experienced my love for her in the same way; growing, flowing, moving me to do things for her I never would have imagined. This continues to illustrate God Love; a love far greater than I am capable of possessing myself; His love is so great for me, that nothing is too far from its reach.

In my marriage I have learned… the meaning of God’s sacrifice. For 13 years I have seen Andrea give up her needs and desires for mine; and I have been stretched to do the same. Fighting against my selfish desires, thoughts, speech, and deeds; giving up the me - for the we. In this, I have grown in understand of how amazing Christ’s sacrifice is. How much it cost Him; and how much I need it.

Finally, In my marriage I have learned… I can’t do it with out Jesus. I find it hard to forgive at times; but Jesus always forgive me. He helps me to forgive, and He forgives through me. I can’t love my wife all the time, and she can’t love me always either. But Jesus always loves me. He gives me the capacity to love, and He loves my wife through me. I do not always want to sacrifice for Andrea; but Jesus has sacrificed everything for me. He compels and empowers me to do the same.

I can’t do it without Jesus —> But with Him all things are possible. Even being married to me. Through this imperfect relationship called Marriage - His Love, Grace, and Sacrifice are on display for all to see.

May your marriage draw you into a closer, more intimate relationship with Christ, and a deeper understanding of his love and grace.

Garden Friends

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 17 Feb 2014 13:33:00 -0600

Do you have any Garden Friends? I understand this term may be somewhat unfamiliar to many of you as it was to me.

Before I met a man named Tiger Mcluen eight years ago at a conference for Youth Ministers, the phrase "Garden Friend" was not in my vocabulary. In fact, when he suggested that I needed to have garden friends, I was confused. Why would I need to have friends to garden with?

Now I had been told many by people that I needed a hobby or interests outside of ministry, but gardening with other guys seemed to be a stretch, even from a man named Tiger.

But over the past eight years I have come to understand and believe that I need garden friends. My family needs to me to have garden friends. My ministry needs me to have garden friends.

Mathew 26:36-40 says, "Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, 'Sit here while I go over there and pray.' He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, 'My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.'”

It was the final hours of Christ’s Life, just moments before he was to be arrested, tried, beaten, abandoned, and crucified; where He would bear the full extent of all sin, absorb the complete scope of God’s wrath, being fully separated for the first and only time from His Father, where he would experience death.

It’s no wonder He couldn't sleep. So, as was His custom, Jesus went for a walk in cool night air - to one of His favorite places, the Garden of Gethsemane. He went there to spend His last hours in prayer. But he didn't go alone. He took his friends, those whom he had taught, lived with, and invested in for three years. On reaching the place, He asked eight of them to remain and join him prayer.

Then, He gently invited three of his closest friends to walk a little further with him. As they stepped on dew covered ground, Jesus let his guard down and laid bare His soul, His struggles, and His burdens.

“Began to be sorrowful and troubled” the scripture says. Jesus didn't try to be strong, or act as if nothing was wrong: for it was. Christ was facing sin, separation, and death. He shared His deepest fear and struggles. He wasn't filled with pride, worrying about what they may think of him. No. Jesus needed support. He needed His friends.

Christ in full transparency turned to these men and said “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” Jesus, the one who spoke and Lazarus was raised, spit in mud and blind men saw, this Messiah’s soul was burdened and filled with despair. He could not take it any more.

Turning, He asks His closest and most trusted friends to shoulder this burden with Him and join Him in prayer. Jesus had Garden Friends. Men whom he trusted. Men whom he cared for deeply, friends who shared the same for Him.

Companions, whom He did not need to put on a mask for, or pretend to be strong. Friends who he trusted to share the deepest and hardest struggle His, or any, soul had ever faced.

Friends who gladly walked with Him, didn't judge or try to offer false assurances that things were fine. Friends who (although failed) were willing to shoulder these burdens with Christ — with their presence and in Prayer.

In his time of need Jesus, God’s own Son, needed these garden friends.

And I do too. In fact, every one of us does. We need friends who are willing to walk into the garden with us. The garden so often covered in darkness and muted with despair.

Friends who will listen, who can share our soul's hurts, struggles, and burdens with.

Friends who are not interested in judging, gossiping, or even offering a quick Bible verse to cover up the ache.

Friends who will not abandon us because we open up.

Friends who will support us with their presence and with their prayer.

Over the last eight years I have come to see how garden friends are something I need. Men who listen, counsel, and correct me. Who celebrate my achievements and mourn my failures. Love me when I am unlovable. Support me in prayer, shoulder my burdens, to laugh together, and share my tears. I need my garden friends and they need me. Like the Apostle Paul said in Romans 1:12 that we may be “mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.”

Who are your garden friends, those whom you can share life's joys and struggles with? Perhaps it’s time for another walk in the garden with them today.

I pray that God will provide you with godly friends to share life's ups and downs.

Changed by the Unchangeable

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Tue, 17 Sep 2013 10:38:00 -0500

We are entering my favorite season of the year, Fall or autumn. I love the changes that are ushered in during these weeks. The colors of the trees, the crispness of the air, the freshness of fruits and vegetables. Not to mention some of the great seasonal cuisine: from homemade apple or pumpkin pie to bubbling hot chili. I even enjoy pulling out the sweaters and sweat-shirts from the closet. Fall is truly a season of transition or change.

Change. This one word not only describes our current season, but characterizes the society we live in better than any other. One only needs to take a quick look around to see this truth for themselves.

From the seasons to the landscape, things change. From the price of gasoline to the cost of a home computer, things change. From the color of our hair to the style of our jeans, things change. From the popular definition of truth to the standards of morality, things change. In fact I can only imagine how much changes that many of you have seen and experienced over your life time.

Change. Whether we like it or not - it is a fact of life. Things constantly change. Some change is good and brings great benefit to our lives: Like the oil lamp to light bulb, or the horse and buggy to the automobile, or the grass hut to the brick house. However, not all change is for our benefit.

For some people (especially those of us of Scandinavian or German decent) change is a scary thing. One that many do not like or seek out, and resist at all levels.

Yet in the midst of our world of perpetual change, there remains one constant: God. In Malachi 3:6 God Himself says - “I the LORD do not change.” What a comfort the prophet Malachi has for us, to know that our Lord and Savior remains the same even in this changing world.

Hebrews 13:8 assures us of the same thing saying “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Jesus is the same, never changing. The One whom we can always count on, Who is always consistent, Who’s steady, always there and will be continually no matter what is happening on earth. Our Lord remains the same.

We live in a world much different than most of us grew up in. One, where on a daily basis, we are fully engaged in a cultural and spiritual war. Regardless of where our time is spent it has become impossible to escape the messages and propaganda that challenge and undermine traditional biblical values.

Sadly this has affected many within the body of Christ, causing some to try to redefine and change the unchangeable God. Yet this cannot be done. God and His Word remain. Christ himself said “I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.” 1 Peter 1:25 restates it well “but the word of the Lord stands forever."

The unchanging truth of God, His Love, and His sacrifice remains. His nature, expectations, commands, and grace, despite what we encounter in the culture, these truths stand unshaken. All the Bible verses and Bible promises we have memorized, heard, and placed our hope in remain true.

The change that comes is not in God’s Word, but rather in our life as we spend more time in His Word. God changes us into His likeness, not the other way around. We need not be in fear of the changing world we live in, for the unchanging God lives in us. Let’s be encouraged, strengthened, and emboldened by the unchanging nature & message of Christ; holding fast to and letting God’s Word mold us into His likeness day by day.

Christfully Clean

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 08:43:00 -0500

As you wipe the sleep from your eyes and enjoy your morning coffee, many of you, if you haven’t already, will soon make your way into the shower; starting your day off feeling clean and fresh. One product has built a fifty year legacy on the assumption that each of us desires to feel clean and fresh. In 1958 Procter & Gamble introduced a brand new product named “Zest.” They did so with the slogan "For the first time in your life, feel really clean." This idea quickly morphed into the popular and catchy Jingle: “You’re not fully clean unless you’re Zestfully clean!"

As I boy, I remember watching these commercials and telling my mother that she needed to buy Zest so we too could be clean. Instead, my mother insisted that the bold claims of the television were simply not true, and the “bargain” soap we bought cleansed our bodies quite well. My mother may have been right, we probably did not need the expensive Zest brand of soap in order to wash the dirt off our bodies. However, there is one thing that our soap could never clean; one that even Zest can not clean. Our sin.

Hebrews 10:1-4 says,

“The old system under the law of Moses was only a shadow, a dim preview of the good things to come, not the good things themselves. The sacrifices under that system were repeated again and again, year after year, but they were never able to provide perfect cleansing for those who came to worship. If they could have provided perfect cleansing, the sacrifices would have stopped, for the worshipers would have been purified once for all time, and their feelings of guilt would have disappeared.”

For hundreds of years, God fearing Jews would travel to the temple to offer up sacrifices to atone for their sin. However, this act of repentance and worship was unable to fully cleanse them of their sins. It still remained. Instead Hebrews 4 says, “those sacrifices actually reminded them of their sins year after year.” Ironic, isn’t it? That the thing which they did in hopes of cleansing actually brought more guilt upon themselves.

Hebrews continues this thought with the in verse four, “For it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.” On this side of the cross, this statement seems extremely obvious. Not only is ritual sacrifice a crude and violent practice (one most of us could not stomach) but is not what God requires, nor could anyone receive forgiveness in doing such an act.

Nevertheless, many people are caught up in the same basic belief today. That they can somehow, in some way offer up something that will please God. That in some small (or big) way they can please God with their Good Works; either by what they do, give, or what they abstain from. However, this is simply not true! Nothing we do is ever good enough to take away our sins.

The prophet the Isaiah said “all our righteous acts are like filthy rags” and filthy rags can’t clean anything. I believe one Christian Songwriter said it best, “you wash, and wash, and wash, and wash, and you will not be clean.” No matter what we do or do not, we will never be clean.

Hebrews 10 delivers the solution, namely Christ. Verse five states, “That is why, Christ came into the world” and verse ten continues, “For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ.”

Jesus Christ came, lived, shed His Blood, giving His body, and His life to fully atone for our sin. It is through Him and Only Him where we find forgiveness, where we are made holy, where we are cleansed, where our sins are taken away, making us Christ-fully clean! Not even Zest can do that.

What to do while waiting…

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 13:40:00 -0500

Anyone, who has lived any amount of years, will testify to the fact that our world is getting worse. For Christians that means the end is near and Christ return is eminent. In light of this reality, rarely does much time pass before someone asks me, “Pastor, do you think we are living in the end times?”

Most people ask this question with a hopeful exception of the things to come, or as a disappointed commentary on the downturn of our culture. Although it is impossible to answer this question with absolute authority (for no one knows the day or hour of the Christ’s coming), one thing is clear, each day lived is closer to the Lord’s Return.

So what should do? Especially if Christ will come back shortly? Should we live in fear of the things to come? Should we stand on the street corner with a sandwich board around our neck proclaiming the impending doom? Should we huddle up in our churches studying, praying, and waiting for Christ?

No. Hebrews 10:24-25 give us a much different direction: one of encouragement. “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.”

Let us briefly consider three of the encouragements found in this passage.

#1 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.

Instead of fearing the end, we should use the time to think how we can motive our fellow believers to love and serve Christ more. To consider who we can come along side, acknowledging their gifts and spurring them to use them for the Lord.

#2 And let us not neglect our meeting together…

It’s easy to stop attending church; and once we stop, it is hard to go back again. Yet, it is at church where our faith is fed, our souls nourished, and we are reminded of our forgiveness through hearing of God’s Word. It is in Church where we experience the blessings of corporate worship, the support of fellow believers, and are afforded opportunities to serve our King. Therefore, we need one another’s encouragement to continue coming and participating in the spiritual life of the church.

#3 …but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

The Christian life is never easy; it is full of temptations, trials, and persecutions. Scripture is clear that during the end times this will only increase, and it will become harder and harder to be a Christ follower. You will need the encouragement and strength of others all the more during this time, and they will need it from you as well.

Instead of looking, waiting, or ever-fearing the end, let’s spend our time thinking about ways we can motivate and encourage each other to love, hold fast, and do great works for God until the end.

Today, would you think of one person whom you can encourage and motivate in the Lord... and do it before the sun sets tonight.

“Remember and Recapture”

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 08:23:00 -0500

For those who do not know me, I am a proud father to two beautiful little girls. My oldest is seven and youngest is five. As you can imagine with growing children, our home is overflowing with energy and life rarely seems to slow down for us. This is never more true than for the first few months of each year.

Yes, being a ministry family December is full and not long after that Lent begins. Yet, it is not for ministry reasons alone this time of the year is full, but in a matter of four weeks our family celebrates three birthdays, one wedding anniversary, and Valentine’s Day. Back up a few weeks and you can include Christmas and one more birthday. This does not include any of our extended family birthdays or anniversaries which fall between Thanksgiving and St. Patricks day. Needless to say, that by March 12th our family is celebrated out and grateful that we do not need to buy presents for another eight months.

Although we have traveled this journey for seven years now, there is one truth which continues to amaze me; how fast the novelty of a new toy wears off. It never fails, the excitement in their eye, the feverish pace in opening the nicely wrapped package. The enthusiasm and focus shown as all other distractions fade in the light of this new toy. This is quickly followed by refusal to go to bed, for that means a ceasing in play and leaving the state of euphoria they have now found themselves in.

There is no need to worry, this state will not last long. Before you know it, this toy too will be cast aside and share same fate as its older counterparts. Soon it too will rest in a corner, or a shelf abandoned, forgotten, and neglected, as phrases like “I’m bored” or “there’s nothing to do” or “I have nothing to play with” echo through the house.

This phenomenon happens to adults as well. Most of us are happy when we start a new job, yet as the days turn into weeks, the weeks into months, and the months into years, many of us become unhappy and find ourselves wishing for a change. Of course none of us have every said “I have nothing to wear” when our closet is full of clothes we were once elated to don.

Consider the draw of a new sports stadium. The crowds pack it out, opening their wallets wide to be the first to experience it. Yet, as time passes this too will fade, and unless the team continues to win, soon this once sought after stadium will be running gimmicks in order to attract paying fans.

This fate also plagues our faith. Many start off strong, excited, and are deeply involved when they first came to the Lord, and yet as time passes this too seems to wane. Yes, many still attend Sunday morning Worship, but no longer have the same zeal they once did. The excitement is gone, the newness has disappeared, the desire to get into the Word, spend time in Prayer, or tell others is gone. This is a common problem, and in Hebrews 10:32-34 we read this encouragement;

Think back on those early days when you first learned about Christ. Remember how you remained faithful even though it meant terrible suffering. Sometimes you were exposed to public ridicule and were beaten, and sometimes you helped others who were suffering the same things. You suffered along with those who were thrown into jail, and when all you owned was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew there were better things waiting for you that will last forever.

The call is to remember the joy of our salvation, to remember how willing we were to sacrifice greatly for our King and Savior. To remember the reason why, the fuel for our faith, the complete forgiveness of our sins and promise of eternal life with Christ. For as we remember this great promise, its hard not to be filled once again with excitement and zeal for Him.

Take time today to remember and recapture the zeal of days gone by remembering the great promise that is to come!

What is Lent?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 10:14:00 -0600

Tomorrow begins the season of Lent. While most are familiar with the term, for many Christians Lent is a mystery. For some it is simply a period of going on a diet; for others Lent is a time when their Catholic friends wear ashes on their foreheads and eat fish on Fridays. Although many are attracted to Lent, few know much about the Lenten season.

Although, the word “Lent” is not found in the Bible, nor are we commanded to observe this season, I believe this is an important time in the life of the Christian and the Church. Let’s take a moment and explore this special time.

Lent is the forty-day season of preparation before Easter. It starts on Ash Wednesday and ends on Easter Sunday. The Lenten season is generally referred to as being 40 days long (which mirrors Christ’s time of fasting and prayer in the wilderness, Matthew 4:1-11) even though it is spans 46 days, because Sundays are generally not counted as part of the season.

Lent is designed to be a season of fasting, self-denial, Christian growth, penitence, conversion, and simplicity. Lent comes from the Germanic word for springtime, and can be viewed as a “spiritual spring cleaning,” or a time for taking a spiritual inventory and cleaning out those things which hinder our relationship with and service to Christ.

Lent is a time for serious self-examination. It is often a time spent in prayer, repentance, and fasting. In Scripture (see I Samuel 7:6, I Kings 21, and Ezra 8) fasting is often connected with times of repentance and prayer.

Fasting often means abstaining from all food and drink for a period of time. However it can also mean going on a disciplined diet, or simply giving up anything that you normally consume. This reminds us Who is in control; and also reminds one to spend time in prayer when their belly growls or they see the things they have given up.

Traditionally Catholics fast on Good Friday, and traditionally eat fish rather then other meat on Fridays during Lent. This tradition could stem from a couple of reasons. Some say that giving up meat was forgoing a luxury, as it was rare for most people to have. Others point to the early days of Christianity, they were forbidden to eat meat every Friday .

Friday’s were chosen because this is the day that Christ died, and is the day (sixth) where God created animals. Some believed that abstaining from meat is a symbolic "stay of execution" for cows, pigs, and sheep; symbolizing how the cross saves us from eternal death. Good Friday is also considered a fast day, where one goes without the usual luxuries as a form of penance, purification and remembrance of God's laws. This idea has morphed into the large fish fries we see today.

In any case, Lent is a time for serious, disciplined self-examination, spent in prayer and repentance before the cross of Calvary. Where we are reminded of our sin and the sacrifice of our Savior.

2 Corinthians 7:9–10 says, “Yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.”

Take time this season and consider how great our need for Christ is; and how His sacrifice completely met that need.

Can You Carry This?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 10:09:00 -0600

As a parent of two growing children our house is very busy and rarely quiet. The rooms echo with the sounds of pattering feet, joyful playing, or sometimes exuberant fighting, and of course many, many questions. Often, they come in the form of a single word - “WHY?”

Regardless of what is said, this is usually the quickest response from my children, especially when the instruction set forth is undesirable to them. I did expect this. Yet, there is one question, asked many times, that I did not expect; “Dad, can you carry this?”

Now I know what you’re thinking, what’s wrong with that? At first glance this request seems innocent and would be if the item they were carrying was too heavy for them. But, usually it is not. This request is a result of an unwillingness to carry or hold whatever they currently have. Typically, because something more interesting has come into view, or they simply want all the pleasure of moving said item without any of the work.

Sadly, many Christian’s spiritual life resembles this. They want all the benefits, the glory, the temporal and eternal blessings that come from a relationship with Christ without any of the heavy lifting. Don’t misunderstand, our salvation is solely based on God’s gift: Grace. Our redemption is found completely in Christ’s death and resurrection. There is absolutely nothing one can do that will ever please God, earn forgiveness, or make one a better Christian. However there is one thing Christ tells us that we must carry: our cross. In Mark 8:34 Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”

In order to follow Christ, in order to truly be His disciple one must carry his own cross. But what does that mean? How do we do it? Often when one experiences trials or undergoes hardships in life they quote this verse and say with a badge on honor “I guess this is my cross to bear.” But is it? Is this what Christ was talking about? I don’t believe so.

The cross was a symbol of torture, suffering, and death. Carrying your cross was a symbol of shame. Instead the key is found in what Christ said first, we must deny ourselves.

If we are to truly follow Christ, we must deny our sinful desires. We must put away our selfish pursuits; devoting and submitting our lives to Christ and His Word. Each day putting to death our old nature, drowning him in the blood of Christ. Then picking up our cross and following Him. Walking in obedience to His word, regardless of what others think or say. Bolding sharing the good news with others, even if they call us names in an attempt to shame us. Carrying our cross simply means being willing to bear whatever scorn, embarrassment, or loss comes our way because we wear the name of Christ.

Albert Barns said it best decades ago when we wrote this.

“to carry the cross is a figurative expression, denoting that we must endure whatever is burdensome, or trying, or considered as disgraceful, in following Christ. It consists simply in doing our duty, let the world think of it or speak of it as they may... it is doing just what is required of us in the Scriptures, let it produce whatever shame, disgrace, or pain it may. This every follower of Jesus is required to do.”

What are you carrying today? Selfish desires or Godly disgrace?

Lord help us through the power of the Holy Spirt within to daily deny ourselves and carry our cross each day.

Spiritual Amnesia

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 4 Feb 2013 10:57:00 -0600

Joy, is an interesting word. Sadly it’s an emotion that many people do not experience much of today. With so many things to be concerned about, job loss, healthcare, school shootings, and a sluggish economy; joy seems hard to come by. Many people measure joy by looking at their circumstances or possessions; expecting to find something there to make them happy. Yet the harder they look, the sadder they become.

So where do we find joy? How do we break through this vicious cycle of feeling depressed? The answer is found in our focus, for we must raise our eyes off ourselves and above our circumstances and place them on the Lord. Psalm 103:1 provides great guidance here - "Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name."

Here, King David finds himself in a sad, almost depressed, state. Although we do not know what has happened, or when he penned these words; it is obvious that joy has escaped him. Instead of being struck with the power, majesty, and the glory of the Lord - he presents a melancholy sprit. However, he doesn’t let that stand. In the midst of a mundane existence, David looks commandingly at himself and gives the order to Praise the Lord.

For he says, "Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name." David realizes that the only escape from his unhappiness is to sing praises to the Lord. It’s as if he looks down deep inside and says “buck up, things are not that bad. Start Praising God!” He continues this extortion to himself in the following verses...

"Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits — who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s." Psalm 103:2-5

King David suffered from spiritual amnesia. He had forgotten all the great things, the many blessings he had received from the Lord. So he reminds himself of God’s works. That He forgives, redeems, and restores our brokenness. That God is the one who works healing in our life. That His love and compassion never fail and only He truly satisfies. In fact, for the next 14 verses David continues recounting the blessing of God. Until verse 22 where he joyously shouts - “Praise the Lord.”

If you are seeking joy in the pleasures found in this life, or letting its concerns weigh you down, joy will continually be far from you. Instead, like King David, stop looking inward or outward, and start looking upward to the true source of Joy. Command your soul to praise the Lord regardless of feelings and circumstances; crush your spiritual amnesia by recounting the many blessing and benefits that come from them Lord. Reminding yourself of the true source of and reason for Joy.

I am reminded of the words of an old hymn “Count your blessings, name them one by one, Count your blessings, see what God hath done! Count your blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.”

You never know, once you start, your list may outnumber David’s.

May you will be filled with, and renewed by the Joy of the Lord!

The F's of Thanksgiving.

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 07:10:00 -0600

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope your potatoes are peeled, floors are washed, your turkey is defrosted and stuffed, and hopefully you and your family will be together soon.

But what is Thanksgiving is really about?

Many answer this question with one of the three “F’s” - Food, Family, or Football. When pressed for a deeper answer, some might even refer to the first Thanksgiving and talk about the Pilgrims and Indians. However, I am afraid we often forget to add another "F," the most important part of the first and every thanksgiving – Faith!

In Psalm 100:1,4 we are instructed to come before God with Thanksgiving. The Psalmist writes, “Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. - Enter his gates with Thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” Yet, far too often when Thanksgiving is taught, talked about, and even celebrated faith is left out completely!

This is not only is sad, it is a departure from the origins of thanksgiving. Dr. Alex McFarland said,

“America’s founding fathers believed that individuals and nations should give thanks to their Creator. Public praises and petitions—specifically to the biblical God—have long been part of our culture. But in our lifetimes, that foundation has eroded.”

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln stated the same thing while quoting Psalm 33:12 -

"it is announced in the Holy Scriptures & proven by all history, that those nations are blessed whose God is the Lord… But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand, which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us, and we have vainly imagined, by the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own… It has seemed to me fit and proper that God should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people. . . . I therefore invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United States . . . to observe the last Thursday of November as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.”

Nearly 150 years later these words still ring true.

Have you forgotten the most important element of thanksgiving? If so, there is still time to heed the words of Psalm 100. Stop, reflect, and give thanks to the Lord today. I believe Katherine K Davis in her hymn “Let All Things Now Living” captures the sentiment best… she writes

Let all things now living A song of thanksgiving To God the creator triumphantly raise, Who fashioned and made us, Protected and stayed us, Who still guides us on to the end of our days. God’s banners are o’er us, His light goes before us, A pillar of fire shining forth in the night, Till shadows have vanished And darkness is banished, As forward we travel from light into light.

His law He enforces, The stars in their courses And sun in its orbit obediently shine; The hills and the mountains, The rivers and fountains, The deeps of the ocean proclaim Him divine. We too should be voicing Our love and rejoicing; with glad adoration a song let us raise Till all things now living Unite in thanksgiving: “To God in the highest, hosanna and praise.”

Join me in giving thanks to our Great God for all the amazing things He has done!

Sweeping, Scrubbing, and Scripture. Preparing for a Busy Week.

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 10:33:00 -0600

As we face the start of this week, I’m sure many of you, just like me, have much to get done in order to be ready for Thanksgiving this Thursday. For some, it requires packing and traveling some distance to spend time with family, while others are expecting a house filled with family and friends.

As a result, there is plenty to be accomplished in order to ensure your house is ready for your guests. Floors need to be washed and linens cleaned, enough food must be bought, thawed, and cooked at the right time, adequate sitting and tableware for everyone must be secured and sleeping arrangements finalized. As the “Must Do” list grows and appears impossible to finish, it becomes increasingly difficult to be thankful for anything, let alone find quiet time to spend with God. Yes, as I reflect on the busyness of the season, I am reminded of Luke 10:38-42, where Jesus and his disciples drop in on their friends Mary and Martha. Luke says,

"As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!""

Undoubtedly this was a large task to be completed. An entire meal for at least 15 people. Even with our modern kitchens and appliances, this would not be an easy or quick thing to accomplish. And here, Martha was left all alone in the kitchen to make all the preparations by herself while her sister lazily sat and visited with the guests. How could she do such a thing? As Martha worked in the kitchen, her frustration grew, and emotions boiled over until she burst into the room where Jesus was and demanded Him to instruct her sister to leave and help her with the preparations.

However, Christ lovingly looks back and correct her. "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."

Martha was so wrapped up in the tyranny of the urgent - she forgot that the Son of God, Jesus Christ Himself, was at her house. She was so focused on her tasks she neglected to spend time with Christ.

Here Jesus doesn’t admonish her for preparing a meal, but reminds her there is something much more important than the feast she was preparing; that there is only one thing in life that really, truly matters, and it can never be taken away: time with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For it is more important to feed the soul than to feed the body.

See, it is easy to become overwhelmed and distracted by all work and pressures of life, especially during the holidays. Despite all there is to do, there is only one important thing that must never be left undone; time spent in prayer and reading God’s Word.

This week, would you place time with Jesus on the top of your MUST DO list? Would you put down the mop and broom for a few moments each day this week and spend time in God’s Word and in prayer? Ask Him to realign your priorities, and help to restore an attitude of thanksgiving this season.

May you take time each day for the Best: Jesus Christ.

Living in the End?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 6 Aug 2012 09:39:00 -0500

Are we living in the end times?

This question (or ones like it) seem popular in our society, and at times it seems like the entire world is fixated on the end. From movies like 2012 and Knowing, to a rising interest in the predictions of Nostradamus, the claims of men like Harold Camping, and the Mayan calendar, (not to mention the unprecedented success of the much beloved “Left Behind” series) many people have tuned in to the “end of the world.”

The July 1st 2002 issue of Time Magazine reported that one-third of Americans are paying more attention to how their lives relate to the end of the world, and fifty precent of people believe the events in Revelation will come to pass. This has left many wondering, and worrying about the end.

The state of our culture has only fueled this fear. With the increasing unrest in the Middle East to the rising cost of healthcare in the Midwest, from rises in home invasion to increased frequency of earthquakes, from rising unemployment to falling of morality it seems as if things are only getting worse. And they are!

With this growing interest, and the state of our world, prophecy has turned into big business for Hollywood and preacher alike. Unfortunately much of what is shared is unreliable, unbiblical, seeks only to invoke fear, or to forward a specific agenda. Yet, Christ’s desire for us is to face the future with faith, not fear. He teaches us about these things in Matthew chapter 24.

Matthew 24:8 stays that “All these are the beginning of birth pains.”

Jesus tells us what will happen: simply put “life is going to get worse.” In verses four and five he warns about false teachers and those claiming to be Christ. In verses six and seven He tells us that wars, famines, and natural disasters will increase. According to verses nine through fourteen persecution will grow, Christians will abandon truth and faith, many will be lead astray, while others will loose their life because of their devotion to Christ. The world as we know it will come to an end.

Yet Christ encourages us with two commands and one promise.

In Matthew 24:4 he says “Watch out that no one deceives you.” Christ wants us to be on guard, equipped with the truth, knowing what will come. In verse 6 He says “but see to it that you are not alarmed.” We are not to be surprised, worried or gripped in fear by the things that we see or hear on the news.

Why? Because of the great promise in verse 13 “but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Those who remain faithful to God and His Word will be saved. Not from the calamity of this world but from the eternal punishment and death that sin brings. We will be saved!

Are we living in the end times? We can’t be certain; but we can be assured that whatever happens Christ is preparing a place for us to spend all eternity.

When the earth shakes, or the bombs drop, the World is gripped by fear and filled with questions. As Christians we have The Answer, and are called to give it. In Verse fourteen Christ says, “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”

Let’s not live in fear of what the future holds, but confidently face it with faith in Christ, boldly providing solid answers in times of uncertainty.

You want us to do what?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 30 Jul 2012 14:36:00 -0500

If you have children of your own, or spend any amount of time with children, you undoubtedly are familiar with that blank and puzzled face staring deep into your soul. That face that is soon followed by the question “you want us to do what?” Whether it is an inability to understand the command given, a stubborn streak leading them to disobey, or a failure to hear the full command, our children often do not want to do what we ask of them.

Although excuses can be endless, the most grumbling heard in our house is when what is asked of them is not easy or popular, or requires them to step out of their normal routine. Regardless of what is asked, I am met with resistance. However, as often is the case, our children are simply acting like us.

There are many times we share the same thoughts and feelings about God. Whether it’s after time spent reading His Word or listening to a message, reactions such as: “You want us to do what?” “That’s too hard, I can’t do that.” or “People will think I’m crazy.” flood our mind as we grasp for a good reason not to walk in obedience to His command.

Here again, some advice your mother gave you is very appropriate. “no matter how bad you think you have it, someone else has it worse.” Consider for a moment those first disciples of Christ. On what would prove to be their last full week with their master, Christ asked them to do a crazy, difficult, and odd thing. Listen to Christ command in Matthew 21. “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, say that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.”

Consider this. Christ asked them to go into an unfamiliar village where they would find a donkey (note he never told them where it was). To take it, and bring it to Him. If they are seen, simply to say that I (Jesus) need it. Truly this is a hard command to digest. Something truly out if the ordinary, something crazy, extremely difficult, and requiring a large portion of faith and trust in Christ and His Word.

Faced with a hard (and seemingly illegal task) of finding and taking a donkey, armed with the simple word of Christ (the Lord needs it) and His Promise (he will send them right away) the disciples were faced with an important decision to obey or not. What raced through their minds we may never know, but Matthew 21:6 records their actions, “The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them.” They chose to obey Christ’s commands, and because of their action another prophecy was fulfilled as Christ rode into Jerusalem like a King.

As followers of Christ, we are often faced with hard things to do. Instructions that seem crazy, impossible, and down right odd. It can be easy to look at the many unknowns, the difficulties, or to wonder what others will say if they see us, and reason that it’s better not to follow it. Yet, just as the disciples, we too are sent with Christ’s authority, equipped with the Word (or answer) of Christ, and have the promise of Him going before us and working out the result. May we too respond like the two disciples in faith and obedience; doing all just as Jesus has instructed us.

Focus on the God who can, and not on the self who won't.

What Are You Known For?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 11:09:00 -0500

Whether or not people want to admit it, at some level everyone cares what others think. For much of the world (especially those in Junior or Senior High school) this plays a major influence in their decision making process. As I reflect over my life, there are many things I have done, said, or agreed with simply over concern of what those around me might say or think.

Carried to the extreme, this may be unhealthy and even dangerous, if everything we say or do is heavily swayed by fear of being rejected, teased, or treated differently due to your jeans, hairstyle, or preferred shopping center. However, careful attention to one’s reputation cannot only be positive; it’s Biblical. Proverbs 22:1 states “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”

Truly, one’s reputation is hard earned, and easily tarnished. So, what are you known for? When others think or speak of you what is on their lips? Moreover, when someone spends time with you, what impressions are they left with? How have you marked their life?

In John 12:9-11 we read this, “When the large crowd of the Jews learned that Jesus was there, they came, not only on account of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus.”

Because of Christ’s marvelous miracle, raising Lazarus from the dead, many people came out to see Him with their own eyes. As the fame of his return from the grave spread, multitudes made the short trip up from Jerusalem. When they did, regardless of why they came, Lazarus didn’t steal the credit, downplay God’s work, or shrink back into the shadows. Rather, he boldly shared his testimony of God’s work in his life. How he was dead, and Christ made him alive. Many who came to see him, encountered the power and presence of Christ and left believing in Him.

It didn’t take long for the religious leaders hears to start burning with whispers of Lazarus’s testimony. Yet he did not stop sharing the amazing truth and promise of Christ. So many were turning to Christ because of Lazarus’s confession, that the Jews considered him as an equal threat to them as Christ; planning to kill him as well. Now that is a reputation: one where someone is known for their testimony of Christ, so much so that it angers those whom refuse to believe.

Each believer has a similar testimony to Lazarus; for each of us has been raised from the dead. Ephesians two tells us that we were “dead in our sins.” Before Christ, everyone is a spiritual corpse void of any spiritual life. However through faith in Christ, God “makes us alive” in Christ. Forgiving our sins, regenerating our spirit, causing us to be born again.

When people see this new creation, let us not shrink away from the questions, downplay God’s redemptive work, or steal any glory for ourselves. Let’s stand with confidence before all who ask, and give testimony of Christ’s saving work in our lives. As we do, others will be less interested with our reputation; and more concerned with Christ’s.

May be said of you that many left your presence believing in Christ.

Blue with Shame

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 15:39:00 -0500

Although it was 20 some years ago, I still remember the sinking feeling as I sat on my countertop in my parent’s bathroom trying to gather up the courage to tell Mom what had happened at school that day. I couldn’t get my lips to move. I tried but my throat was dry, and my tongue seemed to stick to the roof of my mouth. The harder I tried and greater thought I gave it; the more impossible it seemed. How could I tell mom, how could I admit to her that I received a blue slip at school? I was so ashamed.

In hindsight, I can clearly see this was hardly the scandal my mind made it out to be. One blue slip didn’t mean much. They were given out for things as small as forgetting to bring a pen to class or talking to a neighbor at an inappropriate time. Moreover, it took at least 5 slips in a short period of time before any real punishment (like a short detention) would be administered. Yet my tender conscious was pricked, I needed to tell her - but I was far too ashamed to speak.

I don’t remember much of the actual conversation, outside of the reassuring words that one infraction didn’t make me a hardened criminal, and the feeling of pure relief when it was finished.

As I look back at this experience I can’t help but feel a little silly. Did I really think that this one small offense would change how my Mother felt for me? Would this truly change our relationship, my reputation, and bring my future crumbling down? Would my parents disown me? Of course not. I never questioned their love, but the feelings of guilt and shame paralyzed my soul.

Shame has a powerful effect on our lives. It causes us to think incorrectly, act out of character, and live in fear of what might happen. It often keeps us away from those whom we love and respect. This scenario is played out far too often in the lives of many Christ-followers. The unresolved guilt and shame of what they have done (or failed to do) begins well up in their soul.

The Accuser comes, whispering into their ear, lies which only strength the grip shame and guilt have on them. Much like me, many sit at the edge of life burdened by the guilt of actions, knowing - desiring - to have the sting of sin removed. Yet they remain silent; afraid of how their heavenly father might treat them. With sealed lips, guilt ladened souls, and walls of shame; many remain silent staying far away from God and His people.

King David experienced this guilt isolation. In Psalm 32:3 he wrote “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.” Ironically, silence and avoidance of God only leads to greater soul struggle, for the only relief is found in confession to Jesus Christ. The author of Hebrews invites us to “approach God’s throne of grace with confidence.” Not in ourselves, but in Christ’s perfect life, sacrifice, and resurrection. Trusting in His Work for the forgiveness of all our sins. When we do, we are assured to “receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

Instead of rejection, judgement, and harsh greeting, our heavenly father is eagerly waiting at the end of the road for each “prodigal” to return. When we do, He eagerly meets us with a warm compassionate embrace receiving, forgiving, and restoring that which sin has taken away.

Don’t let the shame of your sins keep you away from the Joy of fellowship with Christ. Heed God’s invitation given in Isaiah 44:22 “I have swept away your sins like a cloud. I have scattered your offenses like the morning mist. Oh, return to me, for I have paid the price to set you free.”

And experience the Father’s sweet embrace of Grace.

More Time

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 08:55:00 -0500

When people outside of our church hear me talk about the FLY Convention, it’s easy to think I’m speaking about an aviation conference. However, this is far from the truth. Rather F.L.Y. is an acronym for Free Lutheran Youth, and the FLY Convention is the bi-annual youth convention for our Church Fellowship.

FLY, (as many call it) is held on the YMCA Camp of the Rockies which is nestled in the Rocky Mountains just outside of Estes Park, CO. Last year’s convention, was held over the week of July 4th; and I served as the Technical Manager for the Convention. I oversaw the pre, post, and live production, of the events held in our main meeting area; which is an oversized gymnasium. This was a massive task, one that required months of planning and lots of manpower.

The weeks leading up to the convention were filled with stress as I scrambled to complete all the last minute details. As I drove up the mountain Saturday July 2nd all the stress from the past weeks melted away, and I eagerly waited to begin the transformation of the stark gym into a warm and engaging meeting room.

From the moment I set foot on the YMCA Camp, I was faced with set backs. A storm in South Dakota nearly blew our semi off the road, our rented truck overheated on it’s ascent up the mountain, and this was only the beginning. Once all the supplies and staff landed safely onsite, we began to unload, unpack, and build the stage. Already behind, we had less than 48 hours before 1800 people descended on the Camp.

For the next 36 hours, breaking only for food and little sleep, my crew worked hard; handling every task with care and completing them as fast as humanly possible. As I collapsed on my bed early Monday morning July 4th I had only one desire - more time. That’s what I truly needed, more time. As I drifted off for a short nap, I was unsure if we would be able to finish before our opening service that evening.

More time is all I asked for, as others continued to inquire how they could help, or what they could get me. More time, I would say. I just need more time.

This theme continued throughout July 4th, along-with a few more surprises. Before I knew it, the camp was bustling with people and according to my watch, the opening service was less than 90 minutes away. We were not ready. More time, that’s what I needed. It seemed like an impossible request.

Soon, I was greeted by the leaders of the convention. I assumed they were coming to check in on the progress. I was wrong. They were coming to give me a progress report. It seemed I wasn’t the only behind that day.

Due to the holiday, the kitchen staff was not adequately prepared to serve supper for the 1800 people who had arrived that afternoon. The lines were backed up a good ¼ mile. It was evident that many of the conference attendees wouldn’t be done eating by the scheduled start time. As a result, they were coming to ask if we could start later. Without a second thought, I said YES!

As I reflected on this a year later, I was again amazed at my God. He gave me the one thing, the only thing I needed - more time. I was reminded that God knows of and cares for all my struggles; that He is all powerful and capable of doing exceedingly more then I can ever imagine. Even the impossible - Giving more time.

James 4:3 says “You do not have because you do not ask God.” Upon reflection, I realized during the stress of the event I never asked God for the one thing I needed. More Time. Sure, that’s the answer I gave everyone else, but I never took it to God. I thought it was a fruitless prayer since it was impossible. (Apparently I forgot the time when God caused the sun to stand for Israel.) Despite my unbelief God gave me just what I needed - more time. However, I can’t help but wonder what stress I would have been spared if I had only gone to Him in prayer sooner.

Let heed Christ’s encouragement to you bring all our needs, especially the impossible ones to the Lord in prayer.

“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.” John 15:7

Crossed Love - One of My Favorite Things

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 21 May 2012 20:51:00 -0500

I am reminded of the old musical “The Sound of Music.” Whenever I think of this movie, I can’t help but hear the voice of Julie Andrews belting out “My Favorite Things.” As I listen to this song, I can’t help but make my own list of Favorites, and would like to share with you one of them. The Cross of Calvary.

No, it’s not as pretty as raindrops on roses, or cuddly as whiskers on kittens. Not as exciting as brown paper packages tied up with strings - but it is truly one of my favorite things! Why, you may ask? Because it reminds of some very important truths and characteristics about God.

One cannot help but look at the cross and think of Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross; and how He bore my sin, paid my debt of sin, and offers forgiveness and everlasting life. This alone causes the cross to be cherished by many.

Yet, there’s more. The cross reminds me of God’s Love. In fact, the Cross is a symbol of love. John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

The cross reminds me that God loved me so much, He sent His one and only Son, Jesus, so my sins could be forgiven! Moreover, the cross reminds be of another truth about God’s Love.

Consider for a moment how you draw a cross. What do you draw first? Most people begin by drawing with a vertical line down, from top to bottom. This line, or beam, reminds me that God loved me first before I ever loved Him. 1 John 4:19 says, “We love because he first loved us.”

God loved us first. Before we were even born, He loved us. He loved us even while we didn’t deserve to be loved, while we were sinners; His enemy. He loved us and sent Jesus for us, to pay for our sins and offer us eternal life! It is because of His love that we are able to love.

The vertical beam also reminds me that it is because of God’s love for me that I am able to and should respond in love back to God. Jesus said Luke 10:27 “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind.” this is possible because God first loved me.

But there one more line we need to draw to complete the cross; a horizontal line. This beam reminds me that because God loves me and fills me with His love, I too am able and should show that same kind of love to others. In John 13:34 Jesus says, “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

Since Jesus loved us, and fills us with His love we are to love others; everybody, no matter who they are what they do, or have done. We are to love others like Christ.

That is why the Cross is one of my favorite things. It helps me to remember that God first loved me by sending Jesus, that He fills me with His redeeming Love, and as a result I am able to love Him and others. I hope each time you see a cross, you to will be reminded of God’s Love for you and how He extends His love through you.

“If Who’s on first, then who is in the center?”

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Tue, 15 May 2012 14:57:00 -0500

Although it is not quite summer yet, America’s pastime, Baseball is fully underway. Did you know, that the beloved comedic duo Bud Abbott and Lou Costello are remembered forever in the baseball hall of fame? Their induction had nothing to do with any on field accomplishments, in fact in 1957 they became first non-baseball playing celebrities to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. This honor was bestowed upon them for their wildly successful and quite humorous routine “Who’s on First.”

The general premise behind the exchange has Costello, a peanut vendor, talking to Abbott, the manager of the St. Louis Wolves. Costello wants to know the name of each person playing. However the names and nicknames of the players are quit odd, and leave Costello very confused.

For example, the name of the first baseman is "Who"; thus, the statement "Who's on first" carries a double meaning. It serves as a question (what is the name of the first baseman?) as well as the answer (Who, is the name of the first baseman.) The banter & confusion continues throughout the 5 minute sketch as Abbott tries, with little success, to tell Costello the names of all the baseball players.

This timeless and humorous sketch reminds me of another question that begs each one to answer. “Who’s in the Center?” No I’m not talking about center field, or even the center of the universe. Rather, “Who is at the center of your life?”

I believe if most people would answer honestly, it would be themselves. We live in a very self-centered world: one where self-concern, self-priority, and self-promotion are not only common-place, but expected and encouraged. Is this how it should be? Should each of us live our lives as if we are at the center, and rest of the world revolves around us? “Is Life really all about me?”

Until 1543, everyone was certain that the earth was at the center of the universe, and everything revolved around it. But then came Nicolaus Copernicus who simply asked the question, “if the earth stands still, what causes the season and stars to change?”

This questions led him to the obvious conclusion that the earth was not the center, but instead the Sun was! People were outraged and denied this truth for years! Today what we take for granted as fact, was for decades treated as foolishness and heresy.

In the thoughts of Max Lucado (as expressed in his Book “It’s Not About Me”) our current culture needs a “Copernican Shift.” Max writes, “When God looks at the center of the universe, He doesn’t look at you. When heavens' stagehands direct the spotlight toward the star of the show, I need no sunglasses, no light falls on me”

Paul agrees. Ephesians 1:21-22 states “Now he (Christ) is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else—not only in this world but also in the world to come. God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church.” Eugene Peterson in The Message said it this way “For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels—everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him.”

Christ is at the center of everything. This includes our lives and everything we do. As a result, all we have, from our job to our families, our money to our bodies belong to God. Even our success and struggles are about Him. There’s a great need to move from a self-centered life to a God centered life; accepting our place in God’s Plan, understanding that all, even our lives, revolve around God’s Son.

It is my prayer that Christ is at the center of everything you do.

It's Not That Complicated.

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 7 May 2012 07:49:00 -0500

Have you ever known someone who has the ability to make things out to be more difficult then they really are, or have to be?

Maybe it was a parent, a former employer, or possibly a college professor. Whenever this person spoke, they seemed to over explain, over analyze, or just plan confuse whatever they were talking about. Some people simply have a knack for taking the simple tasks or processes of life and making them into a complicated mess.

Sadly, I believe at times, the Church has been guilty of this very thing. Too many times well-intended Christians and Christian ministries have made Christ’s love and charge to the church more complex than it really is.

For over 2000 years, man has been guilty of adding language, tasks, traditions, and expectations to many of Christ’s Words. Rather than seeing and treating people like Jesus did, we have often made requirements where He did not, and left out some where He did.

According to Mark 1:17, Jesus’ call to people is much simpler then most of us really realize. Here along the shores of the Sea of Galilee Jesus said simply “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” In fact in John 1:39 Jesus Gave a similar command as He said “come and you will see.”

Christ’s desire for His people was made very plain and very simple; Come and Follow and See. Could it really be that clear? Could it really be that simple? Is that all Jesus requires of His people? Simply following Him?

I imagine many of Christ’s early disciples asked similar questions; and His answer was the same then as it is now. “Yes, follow Me.” Christ’s sole desire for us, His people, is that we would “take up our cross and follow Him” with every breath and step we take throughout our life. That we would follow Christ in the good and the bad. That we would follow Christ when it’s easy and when its hard. That throughout every moment of our life we would not lead ourselves, but follow Jesus and His example and desire for our life.

I hope each will accept this invitation, to come and follow Jesus. Come without your biases or preconceived ideas of who this man was, is, or what He requires. To come and meet Jesus through the pages of the Gospels. To spend time with Christ in through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. To read for yourself who Jesus says He is. To see what He has done for you, wants to do in you, and hear what He would have you do with your life; continuing to follow Him through the pages of scripture each day and even day.

Inquiring Minds Gotta Know…

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 10:57:00 -0500

A few months ago, a friend of mine asked me to read Psalm Seven and share some of my thoughts and reactions concerning it with him. I gladly accepted.

Over the course of the week I read and meditated on the Psalm. We learn from the prescript to the chapter that King David was under much distress and persecution caused from a man named Cush. Throughout the rest of the Psalm, David wrestles with and pleads for God to help.

Each time I read or thought about this passage I was bothered by Cush. Who was he? How did he know David? What did he do to cause David such great anguish? Why did he attack him? Where did Cush end up? When was the conflict resolved? These and questions like them have nagged at me each time I have read or thought about Psalm 7.

My friend, Jason, rightly stated in his blog post “First Impressions of Psalm 7” we know nothing about this man or the distress he caused David outside of the heading of this psalm. Yet, I must confess I’m still curious…. It was at this point that my inquisitive mind took a turn from attempting to figure out why we know nothing about Cush, to how come God doesn’t tell us more about him?”

At first, I was tempted to think that Cush and his attacks against David are not mentioned because they weren’t that important compared to the many other hardships David faced. However, that didn’t sit very well with me, for these attacks were very significant to David. He described the situation in verse 2 as “tearing at his soul.” Moreover, our Heavenly Father is concerned with all things in our life regardless of their size or perceived significance to others. Remember, He even counts the hairs on our heads. So then, what could it be?

Then, it hit me. God doesn’t tell us who Cush is, or the kind of trouble (big or small) he brought to David, because these details are not the focus of the Psalm; but rather David’s response is.

When faced with soul-tearing adversity: David first runs to the Lord in verses 1-2 telling Him about his problems and seeking His help. When he is safely in the arms of His Sovereign, David reflects on his own guilt in verses 3-5, asking the Lord to reveal any wrongdoing in his life that may have caused this to happen.

After some soul searching, He remembers the Lord’s sovereignty in verses 6-16, that the Lord is in control and justice falls from His hand. Comforted by God’s presence and character, David rejoices in verse 17 in the Lord’s care. Knowing and finding hope in the promise that God will deliver, avenge, and care for him.

We all have “Cushs” in our life, people or situations that tear at our soul. Instead of focusing on the cause, size, or whys of them, we should heed David’s example and run to the Lord, reflect on and examine our lives with God’s Word, and to remember and rejoice His sovereign care. This may not change our circumstances or ease our affliction, but it changes our attitude and outlook.

Remember, God cares for you and all the details of life.

Caring for God’s Creation

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:34:00 -0500

Many of you who know me, are aware that I am a proud parent of two beautiful girls, whom I cherish and love deeply. There isn’t much that I would not do for them. In fact, like many parents, I receive great joy in giving them gifts. Things that are nice, things of value, things I have spent time and thought over and are certain they will enjoy. However, one of the most frustrating things I, and many parents experience, is watching our offspring misuse, abuse, and often times destroy these gifts.

Feelings of anger, hurt, rejection and frustration, often boil to the surface as we struggle to understand why our kids can’t appreciate and take proper care of the gifts we have given them. At times, we take the way our children treat the gifts we give them, as a personal insult and attack against us. However, this is usually not true. Instead, our children fail to fully appreciate the complete extent of the gift, sentiment, and value of it.

However, each one of us has been guilty of doing this very same thing. We have received many gifts of great value and worth. Yet at times have not treated them with the respect and care they deserve. Not only have we done this with gifts from our parents, but from our Heavenly Father as well.

Yesterday was “Earth Day.” Some may not have been aware of that, and others could care less. For many earth day conjures up images of longhaired hippies driving around in VW bugs worshiping the trees, rivers, and animals.

In fact, many of us are tired of the color Green, don't care about a carbon foot print, wonder what “eco-friendly” really means, and question the science behind global warming or “Global Climate Change.” While it is true that Earth Day has become a vehicle for many to promote evolutionary and new age concepts and political agendas, this is a perfect time for Christians to evaluate what our role is in maintaing the environment.

In Genesis chapters one and two we are reminded that God established the earth. He created everything, birds, trees, land, water, sky, even light itself came from God. In Colossians 1:16-17, we are told that God also sustains all creation, by carefully watching over it and holding it together! Again in Psalm 24:1 and I Corinthians 10:26 we reminded that all creation is still His; in fact He rules over it. All creation belongs to the Lord.

Yet, Genesis further teaches that God entrusted His creation to the care of man. Verses 15 states “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” It was always part of God’s plan for man to care for, watch over (or protect), and keep up all that He has created. God placed man as a watchman, steward, and a guardian over His creation. He was to watch and care for it, defending and keeping it in the best condition.

This command still rings true today. People are to be good stewards of all that God has created. This is not done to save the planet, for we know that this world will too someday pass away, nor is it done in honor of “mother earth.” Caring for creation is an act of obedience and worship to the almighty God. He cares for His creation, and we should too.

This is also a wonderful opportunity to enter into spiritual conversations; for people of all shapes, sizes, creeds and backgrounds care about the environment. Sadly, many are focused in the wrong direction. Yet, Romans 1:20 tell us that all creation shows the glory and nature of God. Lets the seize the moment, and direct their interest away from the creation towards the Creator.

Taxes and Christ

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0500

If you haven’t done so already, only a few more days remain until your taxes must be filed. At this moment, people are scrambling to gather all their receipts, 1099, and other miscellaneous forms, hoping that this one certainty in life (taxes) will not lead to the other (death). But before you grab your ledger and adding machine let’s consider for a moment what Christ has to say about this topic.

In Matthew 22 we see the Pharisees trying to trap Jesus in saying something cross about the Roman Government, in hopes to have Him arrested and killed. As a result they sent some of their own to go “ask Christ’s advice” on the highly explosive topic of Roman Taxation. In Verse 17 they said “Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?”

Christ knew their hearts and intent and asked them to bring Him a coin. Then in Verse 20 He asked them, “Whose portrait is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesar’s,” they replied. Then he said to them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” They left speechless, impressed by what He had said.

Christ’s words stand as a testimony for us today. What is your heart and intent when filling out your taxes? Are you tempted to cheat, not report some income, or to fudge a little on your deductions? Are you filled with anger and bitterness for the amount of money you’re paying, while your neighbor seems to be getting a much better deal? Maybe your stomach is in knots as you worry about how you will make your tax and house payment in the same month.

Well, take Christ's advice. Go grab some coins or a paper dollar. Whose portrait is there? Christ’s? No. A leader in the Christian faith? Most likely not. Instead a headshot of an important man who played a vital role in shaping the history of America. What’s the inscription? “The United Sates of America.”

As a citizen of this country we are bound to its the laws and regulations, even if we don’t agree with them. As a citizen of God’s Nation we are called to respectfully obey our leaders and the laws they pass. We are called to live a life of integrity and honesty in all matters of life and faith; even those we disagree with.

Consider Christ’s words in Matthew 17. He was accused of not paying the temple tax, and although, being the Son of God, He was exempt; in verse 27 He said this to Peter, “But so that we may not offend them, go to the lake and throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours.”

Look at your coin again. There is another inscription found on all US currency, “In God We Trust.” Do you trust God with your money? Do you trust Him enough to be completely honest in all your financial dealings? Regardless of how grim the situation looks?

Just as Jesus provided the coin in the mouth of the fish to pay Peter’s Temple tax; He will provide for all your financial needs as you trust and obey His Word. May you seek to live a life of honesty and integrity in all of your financial dealings.

Obedience Transcends Age

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:13:00 -0500

A few weeks ago my oldest daughter turned six years old. I can hardly believe it; for it seems just like yesterday that I was rushing my wife to the hospital as her contractions increased. But alas, my girl is growing up.

As my daughter ages, the more responsibility she desires. Often, I can see it on her face, wishing she was old enough to make her own decisions; old enough to no longer take direction or obey her parents.

I remember having similar thoughts as well. Thinking how great it must be for adults not having someone constantly telling them what to do, where to go, how to act. How easy they had it: for they didn’t have to obey anyone.

I recall longing for those days as a teenager. Counting down until I turned 18 and was finally an adult, no longer answering to anyone; especially my parents. I waited with anticipation for the time when I could decide for myself what to do, when to go to bed, and where to eat. I imagined a life free from authority, free from accountability, and free from any correction. A time where the only one I had to obey was myself.

However, I soon learned my thinking was wrong. Accountability never ceases, for “each of us will give an account of himself to God” Romans 14:12. Obedience (especially to God) transcends age, and much to my disappointment, never gets easier. Abraham learned this lesson as well. In Genesis 17 God entered into a special covenant with Abraham and his decedents. According to Genesis 17:9-14 the sign of this covenant was circumcision, and any uncircumcised male would be cut off from God’s blessing. Abraham wasted no time. Later that day he, his son Ishmael, and every male in his household was circumcised.

Abraham was no spring chicken. Genesis 17:24 says “Abraham was ninety-nine years old when he was circumcised.” Yep that’s right ninety-nine years old!

God didn’t give Abraham a pass because of his age. No, he still required Abraham to obey his command and walk according to His covenant. This couldn’t have been easy or desirable! No one would have blamed a man who had lived nearly a century to attempt to escape such a request. Yet, Abraham didn’t, nor did he even raise a slight objection or complaint. Instead, out of respect, love, devotion, and gratefulness for God, Abraham obeyed and insisted his household do the same!

As we age, it can easy to let compromise creep in. To allow things in our home and our life that we would have never before. Yet, that isn’t right. God doesn't change his requirements, or have different expectations because we are older. No. His Law remains the same. Regardless of our age, His Word still demands our attention and obedience. His grace and mercy continue to require a response. Age is never an excuse for disobedience or dishonor.

While no longer accountable to our parents, or possibly no longer have impressionable children at home, we are still accountable to God. Our lives should still be a living sacrifice to Him. May we walk in His ways by His grace each day of our life.

Spiritual Spring Cleaning

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 10:30:00 -0500

With the mercury rising and the snow pack falling, many are suffering from the same condition as my wife - Spring Fever. She’s itching to get out into the yard and begin to clean up the grit and grime left by the long winter. Yet it’s not only our yard that needs to be freshened up, our entire house could use a good “Spring Cleaning.”

Before we wash our windows, shampoo our carpets, or rake our yards; there is another cleaning that many of us need to do. We are fully immersed in the season Lent. Although many people grew up with this custom, and celebrate it today; for plenty of Christians, Lent is a mystery.

For some, it is simply a period of going on a diet; for others Lent is a time when their Catholic friends wear ashes on their foreheads and eat fish on Fridays. Although many are attracted to it, few know much about the Lenten season.

Although, the word “Lent” is not found in the Bible, nor are we commanded to observe this season, it has been a custom which Christians have practiced for nearly two thousand years. I believe this season is still an important time in the life of the Christian and the Church.

Lent comes from the Germanic word for springtime, and can be viewed as a time for “spiritual spring cleaning.” It is designed to be a season of fasting, self-denial, Christian growth, penitence, conversion, and simplicity. A time for taking a spiritual inventory and cleaning out those things which hinder our relationships with and service to Christ.

Just as dirt, grit, and grime cover our homes and yards during the winter season; bad habits, compromise and unconfessed sin stack up and dirty our lives as well. Lent is a wonderful time to stop, reflect, repent, and freshen up our relationship with Christ. The great news is, we don’t need to do the cleaning - God does it for us!

2 Corinthians 7:9–10 states “Yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.”

Lent should not be a time where we look at our sin and punish ourselves (or attempt to pay for our actions) though outward acts, but instead a time where we conduct a “spiritual inventory.” We invite God to search our hearts, and see if there is any wicked way in us.

When He does search, we should not respond in worldly sorrow and despair, but Godly sorrow; confessing our sins, looking to the cross, and asking God to forgive for Christ’s sake, while at the same time being strengthened, renewed, and refreshed by His Word and Spirit each day.

Would you take time to consider your need for Christ; and invite God do some “Spiritual Spring Cleaning” today?

May your “Spiritual House” be cleaner than your “Temporal one.”

Adding it for Lent

noreply@blogger.com (Eric) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 14:25:00 -0500

For millions of people across the globe, Wednesday nights during the six weeks before Easter are filled with an opportunity to worship together in observance of Lent. From meat to alcohol, or chocolate to cigarettes many spend these weeks in fasting, or denying themselves something they would usually have. This is done as a symbol of sacrifice to God.

Until 1863 England had a law forbidding the use of meat, fish, cheese, butter, eggs, or milk during Lent. People who broke this law could be fined or even imprisoned. As a result, some traditions were established in order to clean their house for Lent.

One such tradition is known as Shrovetide - which is the English name for the three or four days before the Lenten season. As a result, “Collop” Monday and “Shrove” Tuesday were Established. On Collop Monday small pieces (collops) of meat were eaten, and on Shrove Tuesday Pancake meals were eaten, ensuring the use of all the butter, eggs and milk found in the house.

“Shrove” means to confess one’s sins and receive absolution. People were expected to prepare for Lent not only by having a clean home, but a clean heart as well. Today we may not follow the strict dietary rules of the past, but Lent should still be a season where we evaluate our lives, confess our sins before the Lord and receive His Forgiveness.

Whereas lent is traditionally thought of in terms of “giving something up;” it can be a great time to add some things to our life as well. Simply, feeling sorry, acknowledging, or even vowing to forsake our sinful and destructive habits does not ensure their permanent absence from our life. Yes, our guilt before God is wiped away, but if left un-replaced by something positive, it is likely these habits will return.

The apostle Paul taught the same thing in Ephesians 4:22-24 “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; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”

As we confess our sin, and “put off” the desires and actions of the flesh, we are told to “put on” Christ: His nature, His righteous, His holiness, and His actions. Philippians instructs us to “Have His attitude” and further on in Ephesians four we are given an example of what this looks like: put off Falsehood and speak truth - Don’t let anger steep but seek reconciliation and resolution - stop stealing and work, giving back to those who are in need - put off unwholesome talk and speak only things that build people up - rid ourselves of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling, slander, and malice. Replace them with kindness, compassion, and a forgiving attitude, just like God forgave you in Christ.

Just as Christ has taken your sin, let Him replace it with attitudes and actions reflecting His own. Just don’t give something up this Lenten Season, let Christ add something in your life as well.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” Galatians 5:22-25