Devotions - Heaven's Highway

Superbowl halftime Devotions: Divine Forgetfulness - Isaiah 43:25

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:12:00 +0000

Isaiah 43:25 “I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions, for My own sake, and remembers your sins no more.”

I honestly could not live with myself if I could not go to Christ each day in prayer and ask for the forgiveness of my mistakes and the absolute pardon of my selfish sins. I may be a pastor, but I am also only human, so I will never be perfect in any shape or form. As the legendary coach of the Packers, Vince Lombardi, once said, “ Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.”

We cannot be perfect, but we can strive to be better people each day. We can learn a lot more about God. We can work on our weaknesses and build upon our strengths. We can seek God’s blessing, Christ’s forgiveness, and the Spirit’s guidance every day. We can know that we are growing in faith by trying to live as effective and devoted servants of Christ in our congregations, communities, and countries.

God is able to blot out our past mistakes and to presently bless us with His love. And when God forgives us through Christ Jesus, His Holy Son, He promises not to remember, recall, or be reminded of our sins anymore. When God forgives, He forgets our offenses. When He pardons us, He allows us to move on.

Perhaps you have been carrying a major regret from the past for a long time. Maybe you haven’t managed to forgive yourself for a sinful stupid mistake that still haunts you today. It could be that you’ve not known any real peace of mind or heart over an event or deed that you committed recently or long ago. Know this: help is available now and peace can be experienced. Tell Christ what’s truly on your heart and ask Him for mercy. Your prayers will be answered and your sin will be fully forgiven. Just make the time and take this opportunity to make amends with God and be restored to His love today.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You know us completely and we know that there are no secrets that we can ever hide from You. Pride and fear sometimes keep us from asking for forgiveness. Denial and delusion sometimes cause us to bear our burdens longer than we need. Today, we come to You as sinners in need of salvation, as failures in need of forgiveness. Hear our prayers given humbly and in the power of Your Holy Name. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. if you would like to comment or ask a question about today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest free clip art image for school teachers. It’s called “Teacher’s Welcome.” If you would like to view a larger version of the drawing, please click the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6746680641_4b4da99685_b.jpg

Halftime devotions: Coffee House Christians - Matthew 21:23

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:12:00 +0000

Today’s Bible readings are Isaiah 43:1-7 and Matthew 21:23-27

Matthew 21:23 Jesus entered the temple courts, and, while he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. "By what authority are you doing these things?" they asked. "And who gave you this authority?"

I went to my usual coffee shop last Sunday morning before church. My wife Evelyn and I get up early to go there, meet a few acquaintances, and quietly prepare ourselves for the busy-ness of Sunday school and worship. We’ve been doing it for a while and it helps us to relax before we get to the church building.

Last Sunday, however, part of our coffee ritual was disturbed because one of the coffee house regulars handed me a sheet with his personal belief statement on it. He knows that I am a pastor, so he felt it was important for him to let me know why he doesn’t go to church. At the top of his statement are these words: ‘Jesus did not intend and never wanted to be worshipped; He wanted to be followed.’

What followed on from that bold statement was a justification of not going to worship or of being a part of church. It was the usual anti-religious argument that I have often heard time and time again on both sides of the Atlantic. Inwardly, my initial reaction is usually ‘if you feel that way about church worship, then why do you feel so guilty about staying away from it?’ Outwardly, I told my coffee house friend that I would read his remarks and write him a reply. I hope to have that ready for next Sunday morning.

My main response will be something like this: Jesus may not have wished to be worshipped, but on the Sabbath, He was always found to be at the local synagogue or Temple worshipping, glorifying, and honoring God. If weekly worship was good enough for Jesus, then why isn’t it good enough for us?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we worship You because You have saved us and restored us to God forever. We glorify You because You conquered sin and vanquished the power of death. We will always praise Your Holy Name, each day on Earth and throughout eternity. In You, we live, serve, and pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment about today’s message, then please send an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest drawing called “Spirit of Pentecost.” It’s an artistic depiction of the Holy Spirit descending to Earth on the First Christian Pentecost. You can view a larger version at the following link:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6745762427_c178bbf176_b.jpg

Halftime devotions: Chosen Servant - Isaiah 42:1

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:06:00 +0000

Today’s Bible readings are Isaiah 42:1-9 and Matthew 21:1-11

Isaiah 42:1 “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on Him and He will bring justice to the nations.”

Last night, at our church’s midweek Bible study, we began using some of the material that has been produced by the World Council of Churches for this year’s Christian Unity week. Much of the material has been written by Polish Christians and their theme for this year is ‘Change through Victory.’

Polish Christians have endured a lot of hardship over the last three centuries. Their land has been invaded and taken over many times by their enemies. Through all of the pain and suffering, powerlessness and oppression that the Poles experienced, the Church has still managed to keep faith alive in the hearts and minds of many Polish people.

The initial focus for the study begins with a look at Christ’s role as Servant. Time and time again in the Gospels, Jesus remarks that He came to serve God in the world and not to be served. In fact, today’s prophecy from Isaiah 42 was fulfilled by Christ centuries after it was written. Jesus was, is, and always shall be God’s Chosen Servant, in whom God delights and through whom justice will at last be brought to the nations of the world.

The Polish writers of the study see the role of the Church as being the Chosen Servant of Christ and that all of our programs and ministries, congregations and missions are meant to be the serving vehicles of Christ’s presence in the world. One day, we will gather together in Heaven as one complete body devoid of denominations and divisions, whose only identity will be that of everlasting servants of Christ.

Question for reflection (taken from the study): In our community, what can Christians of different traditions do better together than in isolation to reveal the Servant Christ?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You served God completely by perfectly living Your Life, and by obediently sacrificing Yourself for our sins. We can never repay the debt that we owe, but we can rejoice in You by serving You both in this world and in the life yet to come. In Your Holy Name, we thankfully pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

You can also read this year’s Christian unity material here.

Today’s image is John’s latest drawing called ‘Celtic Spring.’ It’s a stained glass design for a modern Celtic Cross featuring all the colors of a Scottish Spring. Signed limited edition prints are available. You can also view a larger version of the drawing at the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6717914679_f9d8753e34_b.jpg

Church Devotions: A Believer's Catechism - Matthew 20:28

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:34:00 +0000

Today’s Bible readings are Isaiah 41:17-24 and Matthew 20:20-28

Matthew 20:28 “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Why did Jesus die? To save us from our sins.

Why do we need to be saved? Because God is holy and perfect and cannot abide sin; our sins separate us from God, so if we die in sin, we will be separated from Him forever.

Why can’t we save ourselves? Because we are not perfect or holy. We are human and sinful, selfish and proud, greedy and faithless, self-centered and conceited. Our sins are many and our good deeds are too few to purchase salvation.

What did Jesus mean when He said that He came to give His life as a ransom for many? Jesus was telling His followers that only He could pay the full price for our salvation. Without His perfect and supreme sacrifice, the ransom that God demanded would never be paid.

What did Jesus mean by ‘many?’ Not everyone will be saved. There will still be those who will choose to die in sin. There will still be those who choose to reject Jesus. There will still be those who will not repent of their sins, so they will never be restored to God. Jesus died for all, but not all will be saved.

How can I be saved? Completely believe in Jesus and fully accept His words. Sincerely repent of your sins and seek His forgiveness. Respect Him as Your Savior and serve Him as Your King. Then you will know the joy and experience the blessing of being eternally saved by Christ.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we come to you as sinners needing to be saved, as followers seeking forgiveness, and as servants searching for Your blessing. Forgive us of the past. Reclaim us at this present time. Restore us eternally to God. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian church in Knoxville, Tennessee. if you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of my Good Friday drawings from last year. It’s called “Death by Dali” and is my crayon version of Salvador Dali’s ‘Christ of St. John of the Cross.’ The original painting hangs in the Kelvingrove Art Gallery of my hometown Glasgow, Scotland. If you would like to see a larger version of my drawing, click on the following link: http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5061/5630260156_4cd6a2e7b5_b.jpg

If you would like to view an image of Dali’s original painting, please click this link: http://www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk/museums/FullSizeMuseumPhotos/ac_id/87/image_id/361/imageno/1

Scottish Devotions - Jenny Graham - Isaiah 40:31

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:03:00 +0000

Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Next to my wife Evelyn, Jenny Graham was the fastest walker I have ever seen in my life. When I ministered in Scotland, Jenny could be seen most days cantering down the Maybole High Street as she headed to the stores for groceries, the post office for stamps, or the bank for money. She was always hurrying to get her messages done and nobody could keep up with her. Walking alongside Jenny was not an option and everybody smiled a good morning or good afternoon to her as she trotted past them. When I knew her at first, she was in her sixties, but she continued rocketing along the High Street well into her nineties.

Jenny was a remarkable lady, an amazing pianist, gifted piano teacher, and a wonderful church organist. Music was a great gift to her from God and she used her talents to bless the townsfolk in Maybole for generations. Everybody kent (knew) who Jenny was and her long life was spent passing on the gift of her faith through music. When I was pastor at the Glenkirk in Maybole, Jenny was immensely helpful to me, especially in the putting together of worship services. I appreciated her skills, her stories of past ministers, her great friendship, and total commitment to the church. Much of what I accomplished in the congregation had a lot to do with Jenny’s support.

Jenny passed away on New Year’s Eve and her funeral service took place today. Many people would have been in attendance from all over the town and from all of the churches. It must have been strange, though, not having Jenny playing the music.

From now on, when I read or hear today’s verse, I’ll remember Jenny. The part about ‘they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint’ just sums her up completely to me. She had an amazing life with wonderful skills, and many people like me feel blessed to have known her. I’m also left with a wonderful image in my head of Jenny at the Pearly Gates cantering through them with St Peter behind her trying to catch up!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the many wonderful people that Your Church brings into our lives. Thank You for their dedication and commitment, service and faith. They inspire each generation to do something more beautiful for You. In Your Holy Name, we cheerfully pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is my drawing of the Glenkirk in Maybole under a Scottish moonlight. If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4071/4317958402_fe0f23d3cd_b.jpg

Free Church Devotions: Knowing - Isaiah 40:14

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:34:00 +0000

Today’s Bible readings are Isaiah 40:12-17 and Matthew 19:13-15

Isaiah 40:14 Whom did the LORD consult to enlighten Him, and who taught Him the right way? Who was it that taught Him knowledge or showed Him the path of understanding?

I have a simple mantra for my life: God knows what He is doing. As far as I can remember, even in my bleakest of moments, God has always been in control. I’ve suffered from addiction and heartaches; I’ve experienced the death of loved ones and tragedies; I’ve known what it’s like to be hungry and poor, cast aside and ignored. And yet through all of that, God has always known what is best for me.

My approach to the Bible is just as simple: God knows what He has accomplished. And if God says that Jesus is His beloved Son, I simply believe it. And if Jesus says that God can only be known through Him, I simply accept it. God knows everything, so therefore when God sent His Son into the world to die for us, God knew that this was the best possible way to restore us to Him forever.

I don’t question God. I don’t question Jesus. I simply believe and totally accept all that God did through Christ. If someone were to ask me, “How can I live forever”, I will simply say, “Believe in Jesus Christ.” If I am asked, “Is there life after death”, I will say, “Of course, through Jesus alone.” And if someone were inquire, “Is Jesus the only way to salvation”, I would have to answer, “Yes, because God knew what needed to be done and Jesus was the only person who ever accomplished it completely.”

God knows everything; the question we have to ask ourselves is this: are we willing to trust Him and simply accept what He did through Jesus?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are the Savior of our souls because You alone completed all that God expected You to do on Earth. You fulfilled the mission that God knew was necessary to restore humanity forever. We praise You for being our Advocate, our Redeemer, and King. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest Psalm drawing for children. It’s from Psalm 112 and you can view a larger version at the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6651134643_e5a34e5fe7_b.jpg

Superbowl Halftime Devotion: Glorious Things - Isaiah 40:6

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 18:35:00 +0000

Today’s Bible readings are: Isaiah 40:6-11 and Matthew 19:1-12

Isaiah 40:6 A voice says, "Cry out." And I said, "What shall I cry?" "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field.”

Yesterday, I spent the afternoon and evening watching the NFL playoffs. I usually don’t get to see much football in the year, but when the playoffs take place, I try to clear my calendar to watch the games. I like the playoffs because there is a sense of urgency during the games and any one mistake or unexpected play can quickly lead to an intense battle between the teams. Competition is fierce and the level of skill required to win is top notch. Luck sometimes plays a role in the outcome, but usually a team wins because of their focus, commitment, and strength on the field of play.

As I watched the games yesterday, I tried to remember who won last year’s Superbowl. I couldn’t recall the teams involved, so I had to look it up on the internet. It made me realize that Superbowl victory and glory is just a thing of the past. It may be a remarkable achievement when it occurs, but eventually it just becomes another game and set of numbers that will largely be forgotten by the majority of sports fans.

Isaiah’s message reminds us of the same transience of humanity. We may live long and accomplish a lot, but eventually our achievements, glory, and lives will fade away into eternity. We are all like the flowers of the field which blossom for a season and then are gone. Even Jesus picked up on this message when He spoke to His own people six hundred years later: “Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith!” (Luke 12:27-28)

Jesus was telling His people and us, not to get anxious or focused on worldly things. God provides for our lives and through Jesus, He has also provided for our eternal salvation. We may just be like the flowers of the field on Earth, but we are also the everlasting heirs of God’s Kingdom in Heaven. Jesus has achieved that victory on the Cross at Calvary. His supreme sacrifice will never fade away or be discarded to the history books. His glory is unending and His accomplishment will be praised for evermore.

Question for reflection: What glorious things has Christ accomplished for me?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are the Savior of Humanity, the King of the World, and the Lord of all Creation. You have accomplished the everlasting salvation of our souls through Your perfect life and complete obedience to God. We will praise you forever and serve You cheerfully throughout all of Eternity. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest digital glass design for a church window. It’s called “Spirit of Peace.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6648678701_338eba88b2_b.jpg

Daily Devotions: Church is for Children: Matthew 18:10

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:03:00 +0000

Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 38:9-14 and Matthew 18:10-14

Matthew 18:10 (Jesus said) “See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in Heaven always see the face of my Father in Heaven.”

This Sunday our Church Children lead the worship hour. They sing and dance and read and pray. They convey a lot of excitement about their faith and show a great deal of confidence in their presentations. It’s a wonderful gift and a beautiful blessing that God has given to our church.

The whole worship hour does not happen by itself. Dedicated leaders and committed instructors, as well as supportive parents and church members, all play a key role in making the entire service a sacred way of glorifying God. The children have been well taught in each of their skills and warmly encouraged to express their faith in creative ways. They have also been nurtured spiritually and shown how to pray to God week after week, rehearsal after rehearsal, song after song.

The mission of the program is to give our children an opportunity to welcome Christ into their lives and to show their families and friends their God-given talents. It’s a holy way of allowing our church kids to be blessed and to become a blessing to others. It’s a beautiful way to not only see what our children can do, but to share our Christianity through their acts of faith, dances of hope, and songs of love.

As they present their ways of worship to God on Sunday morning, I firmly believe that He will be happily smiling and delighting in their praiseworthy deeds.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the precious gifts of children to our church and for the many bright ways that they can present their worship to You. Support them in their preparations and bless those who have used their own talents and time to minister, guide, and encourage our children. In Your Holy Name, we cheerfully pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest Epiphany drawings called “The Arrival.” It features the Wise Men arriving in Bethlehem, presenting their gifts to Christ. If you would like to view a larger version of the image, please click on the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6557347881_509dfd33fd_b.jpg

Free Devotions: Fifteen Years of Grace - Isaiah 38:5

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:16:00 +0000

Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 38:1-8 and Matthew 18:1-9

Isaiah 38:5 “Go and tell Hezekiah, ‘This is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will add fifteen years to your life.’”

Last week, I wrote that Hezekiah was my favorite king in the Old Testament. This second incident from his life, which is recorded in the Bible, let’s you know why I like him. Hezekiah was given bad news from the prophet Isaiah about his impending death and so he did what his people had done for generations – he lay down and turned his head to the wall, surrendering himself to Death.

But Hezekiah was only human, so he also tearfully prayed to God for help, in the hope that things would be changed. It’s the same type of moving moment that Charles Dickens would use with his famous fictional character Ebenezer Scrooge. God sees Hezekiah’s humility and is moved by his tears. Events are changed and grace is given. In fact, Hezekiah is granted fifteen more additional years to his life and God confirms this with a miraculous sign involving the Sun and shadows.

One day in Heaven, I hope to walk with Hezekiah and ask him about that miraculous day. I want to hear how he felt and then give glory to God for such amazing grace. In my lifetime, I have seen similar events with people who are cancer survivors or heart surgery patients. They have a better understanding of what life is about and usually have a greater appreciation for the extension of their own lives. It’s a wonderful gift given by God through the skills and knowledge of surgeons, doctors, and nurses.

This week, we have each been given another year. We do not know what lies ahead of us but we all hope to experience God’s grace during it. If we place our lives into His hands at the beginning of this New Year, we will know one thing by the end of it: He is always in control.

Question for reflection: What parts of my life do I truly have to give over to God and wait for His grace?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, at the beginning of this New Year, we have many hopes and dreams, issues and concerns. Grant us the courage and humility to hand them over to You. Help us to put You at the center of our lives, so that we may follow and serve You all the days of this year. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest winter drawing. It’s called “Snowmobile” and features a classic car in the snow under a winter moon. If you would like to view a larger version of this drawing, please click on the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6609941245_ec24cdb7a3_b.jpg

Free Devotions: A King's Prayer - Isaiah 37:14

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:10:00 +0000

Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 37:8-20 and Matthew 17:1-13

Isaiah 37:14 Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it. Then he went up to the temple of the LORD and spread it out before the LORD.

Out of all the earthly kings in the Bible, Hezekiah of Jerusalem is my favorite. He ruled his people during some of the worst crises that his people had ever seen. He faces seemingly invincible foes and things look extremely bleak. His advisors have no idea what to do, so it is left to the king to abdicate, capitulate, or totally surrender to his enemies.

Hezekiah does something wonderful which reveals his faith. He takes the unconditional surrender document that his enemies have prepared and places it on the altar in the Temple. He realizes that the situation is way beyond his control and so he goes straight to the top with his problem. Hezekiah is the king of his people, but he is also a servant of God. He places the matter into God’s hands, fearfully knowing that God could reject his prayer. Instead of seeking a political armistice, Hezekiah respects God’s authority and ability to deal with the situation. It’s a remarkable act of faith and it’s a courageous way of expressing his beliefs. He is aware that his enemies will mock him for this, but good old Hezekiah trusts in the sovereignty of God. No matter what the outcome is, his faith is secure.

Sometimes we carry our burdens far too long. We try to be strong and resolute in the face of personal problems, domestic worries, or work related issues. We may be determined to solve these things for ourselves, but perhaps we are missing the opportunity to really ask for God’s help, to seek His guidance, and to acknowledge His sovereignty over our lives.

Most churches have sanctuaries that are open during the day. Perhaps if you’re overwhelmed or heavily burdened, you should make time to go and pray at your local church. Write out your problems and place them on the altar or communion table. Give them over to God and allow Him through the Spirit of Christ to really help you. There’s nothing wrong about needing God’s help; we are, after all, only human.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You completely know the issues and are perfectly aware of the problems that beset each of us. Help us to seek Your Counsel and enable us to truly come to God with our heartaches and burdens, our worries and anxieties. Grant us the courage to place them in Your hands. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s 2011 Nativity Storyboard which was drawn to help parents teach their children about the real Christmas story. You can view a larger version at the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7002/6562257899_9ffba05e28_b.jpg

Daily Devotions: Be Careful! - Matthew 16:6

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 16:25:00 +0000

Today’s Bible readings are: Isaiah 38:8-15 and Matthew 16:5-12

Matthew 16:6 "Be careful," Jesus said to them. "Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees."

I was reading an article this morning about the beliefs of some local pastors. It was very interesting to me because it revealed part of the new theology that is creeping into church. An example of this was expressed by one of the pastors who said that God is beyond all that we can possibly know. This is obviously quite true because who can know everything about God?

The trouble is how this statement was being applied; it was used to defend universalism. The argument goes something like this: we cannot know everything about God, so to limit God to an exclusively Christian understanding is to diminish who God actually is, as well as demeaning the religious beliefs of other people in the world. In other words, it truly doesn’t matter what we believe because everything we believe in God is just a finite part of who God is.

But that’s not Christianity; that’s actually Hinduism where the many paths of belief supposedly lead us to God.

We have to be wary of this new Universalist yeast that is sadly being spread by pastors. It’s affecting who we truly are and what we should truly believe. This modern universalism was actually rejected by God when Christ was born among us. Human beings cannot fully know who God was, is, and ever shall be, so we made up hundreds of thousands of gods and goddesses in order to cover all of the bases. And then, 2000 years ago, God came into the world to clearly show us that Jesus Christ is God. God focused the lens and clarified our beliefs. If we truly want to know God, we only have to look at Jesus and all will be revealed. Christ is exclusively and absolutely God.

There is no other way, truth, or life except through Him. We may want to be part of a great global movement of universally embracing each others’ beliefs in the hope that planetary peace, total tolerance, and real respect may experienced by all, but that would require digesting the spiritual bread made with the yeast of inter-faith Pharisees and societal Sadducees, instead of consuming the Living Bread that is solely offered to the world through Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, keep us from feeding upon modern myths and the yeast of Universalists in our midst. Protect us from false theologies and incorrect ideas that are sadly corrupting the Church and diminishing Your Divinity. Keep us faithful to what You personally called the Narrow Way and Living Truth. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of John’s 2011 Christmas drawings called “Nativity Angel.” If you would like to view a larger image, please click on the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6560966571_6b7bd5191e_b.jpg

Daily Devotions: Blind Teachers - Matthew 15:14

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:33:00 +0000

Matthew 15:14 “Leave them; they are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit.”

I take my role as teaching elder very seriously. We’re living in an age where people make up their own ideas, live their own ways, and expect Jesus to rubber stamp their principles, opinions, and choices. As soon as anyone questions that, they turn off listening and turn away. Their reaction is nothing new and Jesus had to deal with it all of the time. No matter who or what opposed Him, He just obediently stayed the course and fulfilled all that God wanted of Him.

Yesterday, I was reading a pile of tripe that someone had made up in order to justify his lifestyle. Jesus was misquoted a number of times and the ideas that were expressed couldn’t be found in the Bible anywhere. In the comments section, screeds of folk were applauding the writer and, at the same time, heavily criticizing those who held traditional Christian beliefs. This morning, when I read today’s Gospel passage (Matthew 15:12-20) I couldn’t help thinking that people are being led astray by blind, populist teachers. How many will end up in the ditch of damnation who knows, but perhaps some will truly return to what Christ actually said, taught, and lived instead of what people re-imagine Him to have said.

It’s not popular, but I intend to stay the true course. I’ll be criticized as being narrow-minded, self-righteously stubborn, and theologically obstinate. Some will even accuse me of saying that I’m always right and everyone else is so completely wrong, but that’s not what I’m writing even here.

Christ is always right and His teaching is absolutely true. I take my role as teaching elder seriously. If I don’t teach what He truly said, then I’m being deliberately, rebelliously, and sinfully wrong.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, open our eyes to Your Truth and keep us from being blinded by the world. Remind us that our faith has never been popular and that Your ways are constantly being discredited by blind teachers, wrong interpretations, and anti-Christian beliefs. This Christmas, allow us the time to truly reflect upon our own ideas and opinions. Sift out the ones that are wrong and strengthen those that glorify You. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest drawing. It’s called “Trotting Along.” If you would like to view a larger version, then please click on the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6551826543_f243250798_b.jpg

All of John’s drawings can be found on his art website at www.stushieart.com.

Christmas Devotions: The Greatest Gift - Isaiah 33:22

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 18:57:00 +0000

Isaiah 33:22 For the LORD is our judge, the LORD is our lawgiver, the LORD is our king; it is He who will save us.

It’s almost Christmas and there’s still a lot to be done. Every year I promise that I won’t let the pressure get to me and that I’ll be properly prepared for the festivities. Then I head into the last week before the main event and Christmas comes puffing at me like the Polar Express, and I realize I’ve still got tons to do. Phew!

Somehow I’ll manage by Friday or Saturday to get everything in order and then spend Christmas Day with those I dearly love. At some point, I’ll quietly remember the Savior at the Center of the Celebrations and give thanks to Him prayerfully for being the Chosen One of God. Without Jesus in my life, I would have nothing. Decades ago, He set me on a path from self-destruction to soul construction. I owe Christ everything – my wife, my children, my career, my resources, and my skills. If He hadn’t turned my life around, I would have no blessings today. Christ is my King and He is the One who saved me.

Perhaps you feel the same way. Perhaps you need Jesus in your life right now. Perhaps you’re seeking His mercy and grace, love and support, guidance and embrace. The Good News is that Christ can give you those things even now. Just ask Him.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for coming into the world, to sacrifice Yourself for our sins and to restore us to God. We praise You for this mightiest of miracles and the most precious of promises. Be near to us and our loved ones this Christmas. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest drawing. It’s called “Winter Delight” and it features a red barn in the snow under the light of a silvery moon. You can view a larger image here: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6526263977_c32054cc83_b.jpg

All of John’s drawings can also be viewed online at his website gallery at www.stushieart.com.

Short Devotions - A 21st Century Problem - Matthew 13:49-50

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 16:48:00 +0000

Today’s Bible passages: Isaiah 32:1-7 & Matthew 13:43-52

Matthew 13:49-50 Jesus said: “This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

It’s culturally convenient for our 21^st century people to discard any weird religious notions that Hell exists. After all, in this marvelous scientific age where we are discovering new things about ourselves, the world, and the universe each day, quaint bronze age myths hold no terror for our sophisticated society. Hell may have been used over the centuries to control spiritually weak and sinful people, but in today’s cosmopolitan world and multi-cultural marketplace, Hell is no longer required.

But this leaves us with a problem: if there is no Hell and Jesus is sinless, then He must have been lying when He talked about angels throwing the wicked into the fiery furnace. Worse than that, because Jesus is God, He must have been intentionally lying. And if Jesus was lying, then He broke the Ninth Commandment and is therefore not sinless. If Jesus is not sinless, then He is not the Obedient Son of God and His Death on the Cross was not a pure and supreme sacrifice for our sins. We are therefore still under God’s condemnation and have no hope of any everlasting life.

You see, folks, we can’t have our theological notions about there being ‘no Hell’ without any consequences. If there is no Hell, then the whole point of our Christian Faith and the complete Truth about Jesus totally falls apart. We cannot have our Christological cake and eat it at the same time. Either Jesus told the truth, so we need Him to save us; or He told a lie and we are doomed to be separated from God forever.

This is why we need to read the Bible each day; this is why we need to carefully listen to what Christ said; this is why we cannot mold Jesus into our own godly guru or joyful genie. Christ is either the King of All Creation or He’s a comical character of our own creating. There is no middle ground or grey area, sitting on the fence or cozy Christianity. It’s all true or its nothing at all.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You speak to us across the centuries through the Gospels. Your words contains unaltered truths about God, the Universe, and Everything. We seek Your Guidance and long for Your Love. Help us to truly and completely, faithfully and honestly follow You. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest Epiphany/ nativity drawings. It’s called “King of Kings” and features the wise men worshiping the Christ Child. If you would like to see a larger version, then please click the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7148/6507913925_81a1f32f9e_b.jpg

Daily devotions: Yeaster Day - Matthew 13:33

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 18:43:00 +0000

Matthew 13:33 Jesus told them still another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked all through the dough."

One of my earliest memories from childhood is of the terrible smell of whisky yeast that came from the distilleries next to my neighborhood. It was absolutely awful and some days it made me feel sick. The stench was so strong that I can still remember the smell fifty years later. These days, distilleries would not be allowed to pollute the surrounding environment, but way back in the early 1960s there were no government controls. Generations of Glaswegians learned to live around the pollution and put up with what we called ‘the pong.’ We didn’t know any better or that life could be better lived. Thankfully, the environment has been cleaned up and future generations of my city folk will not have to endure such a bane in their everyday life.

Yeast is pervasive, whether it is used for making bread or a whisky mash. It expands throughout the substance it enters until all the flour for bread or barley for whisky is affected. It’s an amazing biological process which causes bread to rise and whisky to mature. Without the yeast, proper bread or real whisky could not be produced. It is the main catalyst which is required to produce the final desired result.

Jesus said that the Kingdom of God was meant to be like yeast; it is essential to the spiritual growth of humanity and the expansion of the Church. Without the kingdom of God at the heart of our spirits, we could never aspire towards Heaven. Without Christ’s Kingdom at the center of our faith, Christianity could never have hoped to be globally influential across the centuries. Christ’s Kingdom is the catalyst that is required to produce God’s final desired results – that of sinners saved by grace and billions of people restored to His everlasting favor.

So today, let us give thanks that Christ is at the heart of our faith and also our spirits. His Kingdom begins within each of us and expands out into the world through the faith that we share, the deeds that we do, and the lives that we live.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, be the spiritual yeast within us that we yearn for in the world. Expand Your Ministry and Mission through each one of us. Help us to grow in faith and to increase the good deeds that we can complete, in order to bring honor and glory to God. In Your Holy Name, we live and pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest Psalm drawing. It’s a simple child-like depiction of a verse from Psalm 111. If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6464037881_34db33968d_b.jpg

Free devotions: White Noise - Matthew 13:9

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:54:00 +0000

Matthew 13:9 “He who has ears, let him hear.”

Have you ever heard of the term “white noise?” It’s used by broadcasters to blank out unwanted sounds on radio, television, and satellite programs. On its own, it sounds like a lot of static, but when it’s applied to a recording, the white noise gets rid of irritating sounds and unwanted frequencies.

We use “white noise” when we want to block out other sounds too. If workers are drilling in the street outside our homes or offices, we may increase the volume of our televisions or radios to cancel out the drilling noise. Or if we’re in a building where we can hear people talking in the next room, we might put a fan on to cancel out the sound of their voices. That would be white noise too.

There’s a lot of white noise in the world and in people’s hearts and spirits. The white noise that we’ve created with our lives has cancelled out Christ’s Voice. We make important choices without even consulting Him. We worship without even focusing on Him. We express our faith without even reading, knowing, or applying His Words. We’ve cancelled out Christ with all of the distractions in our lives. He still speaks His challenging words to us, but we’re either not hearing Him at all or we’ve distorted His words to suit our own ideas, opinions, and culture.

We’re afraid to listen to Christ’s Truth because He will radically change our ideas.

We’re afraid to follow His Way because we want to keep things going our way.

We’re reluctant to accept His Life because our lives will no longer be our own.

So instead of listening to Christ or hearing the Gospel, we create white noise to block out His irritating words and uncompromising demands. We want Jesus to be meek and mild – meek enough to mold Him our way and mild enough not to meddle in our lives.

The challenge that we face today and everyday is this: how can we block out the world’s white noise and really listen to Jesus?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we have failed to follow You completely. We are guilty of setting You aside and blocking You from tampering in our lives and changing our ways. We want You to go along with us and listen to everything we have to say. We forget that You are the Lord and we are only Your servants. Help us to refocus our hearts and minds so that we will actually listen to You. In Your Holy Name, we urgently pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest 2011 Nativity drawings called
“Light of the World.” It features a silhouetted Joseph and Mary walking in the outskirts of Bethlehem beneath the Natal Star. If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7015/6469850593_46b13aa547_b.jpg

Christmas Advent devotion: Not Just Words - Matthew 12:37

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 19:48:00 +0000

Matthew 12:37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.

As a preaching pastor and teaching elder, this verse is taken very seriously by me. I’ve preached since I was 21 in various churches, meeting places, and streets. I’ve often expressed the Gospel in challenging ways and I’ve also experienced some sharp criticisms for doing so.

I don’t like to see people upset with what I preach, but at the same time, I won’t preach a Gospel that is watered down or untrue. The words that I use and how I say them are all under Christ’s judgment; so in the end, it’s not what other people’s feelings or opinions that are important, it’s about the truth of the Gospel and the uncompromising demands that Christ expects of all of us.

Over the decades that I’ve preached, I’ve dealt with various people who feel they’ve been picked upon by the pastor and pressured by a bully pulpit. However, in almost all of the cases, personal dislikes, questionable lifestyle choices, and selfish addictions or obsessions were at the root of their protests. They didn’t care if Jesus was actually challenging them; they didn’t give a hoot if it was clear from statements made in the Gospels. If it offended them, it was clearly wrong in their eyes. Rather than be challenged and changed, they chalked it up to bad preaching and a misguided messenger.

Life is too short to get sermons wrong. Souls will end up in jeopardy by pointless preaching. Preaching the Word, teaching the Truth, and healing the people are not easy in a society that is self-absorbed. It always comes at a cost to the preacher; it always comes down to Christ’s judgment of our words.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we live in a world that thinks it can get along without Your challenging ways; some of us even belong to churches that are keen to please society and go along with the maddening crowd. Remind us that our allegiance is to You alone, and not the world or culture we live in. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is currently the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest nativity drawing called “Massai Madonna.” It’s a depiction of Mary and Jesus as if they had been living in Africa. You can view a larger version of the image at the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6450888287_328ef9574d_b.jpg

Christmas Advent devotion - Keep It Simple - Matthew 11:29-30

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:53:00 +0000

Matthew 11:29-30 “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

The secret to surviving Christmas? Keep it simple!

I don’t know about you, but I worry about the Christmas standards that a lot of people are setting for themselves and trying to accomplish. Yesterday, one of the young pastors in our Presbytery – whom I greatly respect – wrote to me about this end of year activity being called ‘the season of procurement.’ I couldn’t think of a better description, for it’s a time of procuring more pressure on ourselves as we try to keep up with the latest gadgets, gifts, and God only knows what’s next. We’re killing ourselves trying to be too cute and too kind. It’s not worth it, folks, because next Christmas we’ll have to do something bigger, better, and beyond what we’ve accomplished this year.

Secret Santas, Yankee Gift grabbing, office parties, and a whole host of other ‘festive’ events are wearing us out spiritually, physically, and financially. Instead of relishing the ‘restive’ side to Christmas by simply living each day in Christ’s love, we’re recklessly abandoning our faith to embrace a type of Christmas that Charles Dickens actually invented for Ebenezer Scrooge’s salvation. Indeed, if we go to the Four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we’ll discover that the event which generated Christmas – Christ’s Birth – is not actually recorded in two of the Gospels!

So, to honestly survive Christmas – keep it simple. The only gift we need to focus on is the one that God gifts to the world: His Son Jesus Christ. Everything else is just tinsel and trivial, to be left behind and forgotten as soon as the New Year begins.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we are in a mess of our own making and under pressure that we’ve procured. Instead of pursuing rest in Your Presence, we are restless in pursuing presents. Save us from ourselves and enable us to keep Christmas simple. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message or ask a question, please feel free to send John an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest Christmas drawing called “Christmas Carousel.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7141/6422328553_20ed9ddb3b_b.jpg

Christmas Gift ideas for Kindle users: Everyday with C. S Lewis

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:34:00 +0000

Looking to buy a gift for a Kindle user or searching for something to inspire you each day? A year with C S Lewis is a great way to start the day. His writings have always been popular and most of his reflections are still very relevant to the issues facing the Church today. I had this book in hardback edition in my library for years; now I can carry it with me to meetings, conferences, and hospital waiting rooms with my Kindle.

Check it out here:

Advent Christmas devotions: My Best Friend - Matthew 11:19

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:22:00 +0000

Today’s Bible readings are Isaiah 27:1-5 and Matthew 11:16-24

Matthew 11:19 “The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and “sinners.” ‘ But wisdom is proved right by her actions.”

My name is John Stuart and I’m a sinner. I also have a wonderful friend called Jesus who wants to change my life and help me follow a path that will lead me to God’s Eternal Kingdom.

I struggle with sin, but Jesus remains my friend.

I get lost in life sometimes, but Jesus is still my Guide.

I worry about the future, but Jesus knows the way ahead.

I regret my past mistakes, but Jesus has forgiven me.

I feel helpless at times, but Jesus is my strength.

I guess that you’re a sinner too; why else would you need to read a devotional? Guess what? Jesus is also Your Friend, Guide, Comforter, Savior, and Strength.

Being a Christian is the best gift in life that God has to offer. Bringing someone else to Christ is the best way that we can thank Him. This Christmas, let’s invite someone to church to meet Jesus.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for being our Friend. Because of our many sins, we don’t deserve such a blessing. You were sent into the world to reconcile everything to God through Your Holy, Sacred and Supreme Sacrifice. Thank You, Jesus, for doing that for us. Thank You for being here in our lives. In Your Holy Name, we gratefully pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org. John loves to read your comments.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest Nativity drawings. It’s called “Child of Peace.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6060/6419950643_3d838119c0_b.jpg

Stushie art: My 2011 Christmas art catalog

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 03:02:00 +0000

Advent Clip art: Free advent art

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 04:50:00 +0000

Here are four clip images that I've drawn for Advent Bulletins

You can also find all four in larger versions at the following facebook link:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150368100662109.346523.525292108&type=1&l=babd9171df

Best Devotions Books on Kindle

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 12:33:00 +0000

So far I've written 3 devotional e-books for Kindle. I'm now working on a fourth for the New Year based upon the Gospel of Mark. In the meantime, here are my 3 current books:

Twelve Days of Kindle for Pastors

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 19:02:00 +0000

Here is my list of twelve books on Kindle which I think pastors everywhere should be reading on their Kindles.

Advent Christmas devotions: Make a Difference - Matthew 9:35-38

noreply@blogger.com (Stushie) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 15:59:00 +0000

Today’s Bible readings are: Isaiah 24:7-13 and Matthew 9:35-38

Matthew 9:38 (Jesus said) “Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

Some people in your life are waiting to be invited to church this Christmas. They want to come and sing Christmas carols; they want to hear the timeless story of Christ’s birth; they want to be forgiven for their past mistakes. They want to reconnect with God and belong to a community of faith. They are afraid to do this on their own; they feel unworthy and unholy; they feel lost and isolated, vulnerable and broken.

They want to be loved by God again.

They just don’t know where to start, where to go, or what to do. They are waiting for a sign. They are seeking guidance. They need help. They don’t want Christmas to go by again and carry an empty heart and unfulfilled life from this year to the next. They want to come to church, but they are worried that they won’t be welcomed.

This is where you come in. God is calling you to invite them. He needs you to ask them to come to church this Christmas. He wants as many people as possible to be reconnected to His love and to experience the joy of Jesus in their hearts. God needs you to be the one to welcome those seekers to come to church. He wants you to give them a positive and clear invitation to come back to church. You are the worker that He needs to go into the harvest field to restore His blessing to someone who feels helpless, hapless, and hopeless.

Let God do what He does best. Let Him use you to bring others to church this Christmas – your family, your friends, your colleagues, and your neighbors. Everyone needs to be loved by God and given a new beginning. This year, this Advent, and this Christmas, be the one to bring someone closer to Christ and back to church.

“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few,” said Jesus. This Christmas, become one of the few!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, open our hearts and minds to the people in our circles who are seeking You in their lives. Grant us opportunities and possibilities to invite them to church this Christmas. Take away our fears, and enable us to give a positive and welcoming invite to all whom You would have us ask. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment about today’s message, or ask a question, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of John’s Christmas drawings called “Nativity Nap Time.” It’s being used by churches throughout the world to promote their Christmas Eve services, as well as part of a national non-profit organization’s annual donor campaign who are sending out 370,000 Christmas cards with the drawing across the United States this year. If you would like to view a larger version of the drawing, please click on the following link: http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4003/4159555940_eb5f7bb5c2_b.jpg