I recently received a marvelous question from one of our members regarding the details of this Holy Saturday. Essentially, the question was why do we not hear more about the day after crucifixion? What was going on?
This dear friend is right in her observation of the silence of this day. With all the drama of recent events leading up to the cross, it seems almost impossible to 'be still and know.' By Saturday, Joseph of Arimathea and the others have completed the task of preparing Jesus' body for burial and have laid him in the tomb located in a nearby garden where he was crucified (John 19:38-42).
As for Jesus, the silence of the gospel writers on this particular day all point to the same important conclusion:
Jesus is dead.
Not just mostly dead, or merely exhausted, or busy healing in recovery.
Jesus is dead.
This is the all important truth which must be conveyed; for there is no victory over death....without death.
Thus, on Holy Saturday, Jesus was dead.
But tomorrow is another story.
Waiting for Sunrise,
Darren
Welcome to the conversation! For as long as our own discipline will allow, I hope to use this resource as a forum for prayer and reflection for the community of Perdido Bay United Methodist Church. We'll be working through Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals as our daily devotional guide. Since we're beginning the journey on Ash Wednesday, the hope is that this will be an additional venue for us to pray together throughout this holy season.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Friday, April 6, 2012
What's So Good about Good Friday?
As we were reading together through our online Bible Study, the Lectionary passages with many who attend Worship @ The Water, a number of them had some helpful responses to the question above.
"This question was asked to me years ago and I really never understood why it was good until I got more into His Word. Good Friday is good because that is the day Jesus saved me. He knew I wasn't perfect and will never be but he died for my sins so that I may live...I am so thankful for Jesus and the cross and the day He showed the world who He really is." Tiffani
"I believe Good Friday is good, because God saw the goodness in all of us and because of it sent Christ to die for us." Tom
"Good Friday is good because Jesus died for our sins. He paid our debt for eternity. What a glorious day for us!" Jeanine
They are certainly on to the eternal outcome of Good Friday. The difficulty for me comes when I realize Christ dares each of us to carry our own crosses and follow Him. I would much rather trade mine in for a lighter one or one I can put off to the side if it becomes too demanding of my schedule.
Our reading from 1 John 3:16-17 states, "This is how we've come to understand and experience love: Christ sacrificed his life for us. This is why we ought to live sacrificially for our fellow believers, and not just be out for ourselves. If you see some brother or sister in need and have the means to do something about it but turn a cold shoulder and do nothing, what happens to God's love? It disappears. And you made it disappear." (MSG)
OUCH! "I made it disappear?" If you were able to attend our Maunday Thursday service last night Darren laid out a powerful testimony in reference to his own struggles with regards to practicing a foot washing faith. John's Gospel tells us that just before our Lord was betrayed and murdered on a cross, He washed the disciples feet. Who does that sort of thing? We serve a God who knows what it means to carry a cross; one that had my name as well as yours on it.
Not sure about your cross but mine continues to turn me towards the lost, broken, messy, hopeless, jacked up children of God in need of that saving grace. Most days I fight to remain blind to what I see and deaf to what I hear when the turn occurs.
What about your cross?
Let us finish what we started and make it to the crucifixion and into the Easter celebration.
With much love for you and yours,
Jeremy
"This question was asked to me years ago and I really never understood why it was good until I got more into His Word. Good Friday is good because that is the day Jesus saved me. He knew I wasn't perfect and will never be but he died for my sins so that I may live...I am so thankful for Jesus and the cross and the day He showed the world who He really is." Tiffani
"I believe Good Friday is good, because God saw the goodness in all of us and because of it sent Christ to die for us." Tom
"Good Friday is good because Jesus died for our sins. He paid our debt for eternity. What a glorious day for us!" Jeanine
They are certainly on to the eternal outcome of Good Friday. The difficulty for me comes when I realize Christ dares each of us to carry our own crosses and follow Him. I would much rather trade mine in for a lighter one or one I can put off to the side if it becomes too demanding of my schedule.
Our reading from 1 John 3:16-17 states, "This is how we've come to understand and experience love: Christ sacrificed his life for us. This is why we ought to live sacrificially for our fellow believers, and not just be out for ourselves. If you see some brother or sister in need and have the means to do something about it but turn a cold shoulder and do nothing, what happens to God's love? It disappears. And you made it disappear." (MSG)
OUCH! "I made it disappear?" If you were able to attend our Maunday Thursday service last night Darren laid out a powerful testimony in reference to his own struggles with regards to practicing a foot washing faith. John's Gospel tells us that just before our Lord was betrayed and murdered on a cross, He washed the disciples feet. Who does that sort of thing? We serve a God who knows what it means to carry a cross; one that had my name as well as yours on it.
Not sure about your cross but mine continues to turn me towards the lost, broken, messy, hopeless, jacked up children of God in need of that saving grace. Most days I fight to remain blind to what I see and deaf to what I hear when the turn occurs.
What about your cross?
Let us finish what we started and make it to the crucifixion and into the Easter celebration.
With much love for you and yours,
Jeremy
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Truth Telling a Step Closer
"And he kissed all his brothers and wept over them. Afterward his brothers talked with him."
Possibly one of the most healing scenes between brothers is found in our reading of Genesis 45:1-15. After a good ole country butt kicking from his brothers, Joseph was then sold into slavery. Throuhgout his difficult sojourn God's hand was upon him guiding his steps with grace and truth.
From the pit of brutality he arose to a high peak of power and prestige. In the previous chapters we read through the episodes where Joseph was beginning to enjoy the revenge practice but God had other plans and his taunting begins to transform into truth telling. We read how he is unable to hold back the flood gates and all of his hurt gushes forth. He takes off the mask and reveals himself to his brothers.
I can only imagine how life changing that was for everyone in the room and the adjoining rooms to witness and hear the power of truth being unleashed. All consuming I suspect.
As we attempt to carry our crosses and follow Christ to that point of no return, what are the masks you need to take off in order for His truth to usher forth?
How healing and holy that moment will be...
Let your guard down and all the Holy Spirit to speak the truth always!
Very close now,
Jeremy
Possibly one of the most healing scenes between brothers is found in our reading of Genesis 45:1-15. After a good ole country butt kicking from his brothers, Joseph was then sold into slavery. Throuhgout his difficult sojourn God's hand was upon him guiding his steps with grace and truth.
From the pit of brutality he arose to a high peak of power and prestige. In the previous chapters we read through the episodes where Joseph was beginning to enjoy the revenge practice but God had other plans and his taunting begins to transform into truth telling. We read how he is unable to hold back the flood gates and all of his hurt gushes forth. He takes off the mask and reveals himself to his brothers.
I can only imagine how life changing that was for everyone in the room and the adjoining rooms to witness and hear the power of truth being unleashed. All consuming I suspect.
As we attempt to carry our crosses and follow Christ to that point of no return, what are the masks you need to take off in order for His truth to usher forth?
How healing and holy that moment will be...
Let your guard down and all the Holy Spirit to speak the truth always!
Very close now,
Jeremy
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
The Right Words for the Occasion
The right words can escape us.
How often I have looked back on a conversation or situation and thought, "what I should have said was..." or "why didn't I think of that?" When I read the gospel accounts, however, I am always in awe of the One who never seems to have that problem. Whether it be a matter of dispute or despair, Jesus always knows what to say. As we might expect, the Word has a way with words.
Although no less amazing, a closer reading of scripture gives us great clues as to the preferred source material of Jesus' wisdom and witness. For instance, when he was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, he refuted his adversary with a word from Deuteronomy 8. When agonizing under the weight of sin on the cross, the word of lament was from Psalm 22. These are just two examples (which are particularly relevant for this Holy Week).
The reading for Tuesday of this week provide further nourishment for our contemplative imaginations (p. 210). In case Jesus was not sure how to prayerfully articulate that which was unfolding before him, the words are right there: my enemies are talking against me, and those who lie in wait for my life take counsel together. They say, "God has forsaken him. Go after him and seize him..." ( Psalm71:10-11).
And yet, in spite of the conceivably grim prospect of the cross, God has already provided a word of appropriate assurance and direction for Jesus through the mouth of his prophet some generations earlier: You are my servant...in whom I will be glorified...I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth (Isaiah 49:3,6).
Though this is the commission for all God's people, it takes Jesus to come and show us how it is to be done. For those who would doubt, this is the week that we are faced with the reality that Jesus is more than just a smooth talker; indeed he is a doer as well, in a manner we rarely considered, both then and now.
How right is this Word, to raise up, restore, and to redeem!
Why didn't I think of that? Oh, good point. Now I remember....
Sin-sick and Tongue-tied,
Darren
How often I have looked back on a conversation or situation and thought, "what I should have said was..." or "why didn't I think of that?" When I read the gospel accounts, however, I am always in awe of the One who never seems to have that problem. Whether it be a matter of dispute or despair, Jesus always knows what to say. As we might expect, the Word has a way with words.
Although no less amazing, a closer reading of scripture gives us great clues as to the preferred source material of Jesus' wisdom and witness. For instance, when he was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, he refuted his adversary with a word from Deuteronomy 8. When agonizing under the weight of sin on the cross, the word of lament was from Psalm 22. These are just two examples (which are particularly relevant for this Holy Week).
The reading for Tuesday of this week provide further nourishment for our contemplative imaginations (p. 210). In case Jesus was not sure how to prayerfully articulate that which was unfolding before him, the words are right there: my enemies are talking against me, and those who lie in wait for my life take counsel together. They say, "God has forsaken him. Go after him and seize him..." ( Psalm71:10-11).
And yet, in spite of the conceivably grim prospect of the cross, God has already provided a word of appropriate assurance and direction for Jesus through the mouth of his prophet some generations earlier: You are my servant...in whom I will be glorified...I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth (Isaiah 49:3,6).
Though this is the commission for all God's people, it takes Jesus to come and show us how it is to be done. For those who would doubt, this is the week that we are faced with the reality that Jesus is more than just a smooth talker; indeed he is a doer as well, in a manner we rarely considered, both then and now.
How right is this Word, to raise up, restore, and to redeem!
Why didn't I think of that? Oh, good point. Now I remember....
Sin-sick and Tongue-tied,
Darren
Monday, April 2, 2012
Why Do We Do That?
We were having another one of those come to Jesus Family talks the other night. With teenagers it seems these meetings are a bit more frequent. We want to create a sanctuary in which we can be open and transparent with one another in our life together. Elissa and I will begin with praise for what is going well and then into the dirty realm of sin...those traits coming out that are destructive, hurtful, and unhealthy. After we share they have an opportunity to discuss what they observe in us. This is the hard part because I always come away from those sessions upset by lack of being a great father..."Why do I continue to do that?"
This week is the most Holy Week in all of Christendom. A week when we need to simply claim our lives as a mess, works in progress, not there yet. Lives like Pharaoh who continue to go back into the pool of sin and hatred even at the cost of his loved ones. So troubling to ponder how as a leader of millions he could be so stupid to pursue them after all the plagues. I have many of his traits, hopefully this will be the Good Friday to give them over to death on His Cross.
1 John is a brilliant anectdote to the question raised about our actions, "I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an adocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and he is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world." (2:1-2)
Indeed sin is still very present within, but how healing it is to know Christ has paid the price.
I pray for a consistency in which he is not paying on a regular basis...
What about you...are you closer to His image in your daily walk?
Heading to Golgotha,
Jeremy
This week is the most Holy Week in all of Christendom. A week when we need to simply claim our lives as a mess, works in progress, not there yet. Lives like Pharaoh who continue to go back into the pool of sin and hatred even at the cost of his loved ones. So troubling to ponder how as a leader of millions he could be so stupid to pursue them after all the plagues. I have many of his traits, hopefully this will be the Good Friday to give them over to death on His Cross.
1 John is a brilliant anectdote to the question raised about our actions, "I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an adocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and he is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world." (2:1-2)
Indeed sin is still very present within, but how healing it is to know Christ has paid the price.
I pray for a consistency in which he is not paying on a regular basis...
What about you...are you closer to His image in your daily walk?
Heading to Golgotha,
Jeremy
Saturday, March 31, 2012
On the Way
What do you want from Jesus?
In the last few chapters of Mark's Gospel, the disciples have been asking Jesus for all sorts of things, most of which will contribute to their own sense of greatness or personal glory (9:34, 38, 10:37, 41). It is one of the great ironies of Mark that those who are with Jesus the most seem to understand him the least. Through various fits of envy and ambition, the disciples prove that they just don't get it.
Then there is the case of good old Bartimaeus. He only asks for one thing, which is to see. There is no telling how long Bartimaeus had been waiting for Jesus to come around. Once he finally heard him, he would not be denied. His request is rather humble, however, compared to the others Jesus had received from his so-called "followers." Curiously enough, Jesus said to him, "go; your faith has made you well."
In a powerful declaration, the gospel reveals the way in which Bartimaeus' spiritual sight results in the restoration of his physical sight. And after receiving just what he wanted from Jesus, what does he do? We might have run off in delight to see the world; but not Bartimaeus. He follows Jesus to Jerusalem, the eventual place of his crucifixion. In Mark's description, he is "on the way."
What do you want from Jesus? What would you do if you got it?
How far would you follow?
On the way,
Darren
In the last few chapters of Mark's Gospel, the disciples have been asking Jesus for all sorts of things, most of which will contribute to their own sense of greatness or personal glory (9:34, 38, 10:37, 41). It is one of the great ironies of Mark that those who are with Jesus the most seem to understand him the least. Through various fits of envy and ambition, the disciples prove that they just don't get it.
Then there is the case of good old Bartimaeus. He only asks for one thing, which is to see. There is no telling how long Bartimaeus had been waiting for Jesus to come around. Once he finally heard him, he would not be denied. His request is rather humble, however, compared to the others Jesus had received from his so-called "followers." Curiously enough, Jesus said to him, "go; your faith has made you well."
In a powerful declaration, the gospel reveals the way in which Bartimaeus' spiritual sight results in the restoration of his physical sight. And after receiving just what he wanted from Jesus, what does he do? We might have run off in delight to see the world; but not Bartimaeus. He follows Jesus to Jerusalem, the eventual place of his crucifixion. In Mark's description, he is "on the way."
What do you want from Jesus? What would you do if you got it?
How far would you follow?
On the way,
Darren
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Altars everywhere we spend time...
How much experience have you had with altars? For most not so much. The thought of standing behind that ominous structure where a preacher goes once a week is beyond intimidating. Most would rather die than step up before a live audience to speak, especially when they are discusing God.
I love Pierre Teilhard de Chardin's take, "I, your priest, will make the whole earth my altar and on it will offer you all the labors and suffering of the world." Juxtapose this with Mark's account of the rich man's encounter with Christ and we are truly on to something.
The rich man wanted Jesus to give him the simple black and white ticket into heaven. "What does it take to inherit eternal life," he asks. After Jesus goes over the list central to living out our faith, he applauds his faith. All the while our Lord knew what was hindering his life from being truly free. His worship had shifted from a God altar to that of a material things altar.
What would it look like if we set up altars in those places we spend the most time. These do not have to be physical places endowed with candles, Bibles, and kneelers. They could simply be a place we enter into and realize we are standing on Holy ground. A place where we are intentional to claim His presence there with us. Altars in your kitchen, garage, office, neighbors house, local homeless shelter...If we establish them He meets us there!
Blessings,
Jeremy
I love Pierre Teilhard de Chardin's take, "I, your priest, will make the whole earth my altar and on it will offer you all the labors and suffering of the world." Juxtapose this with Mark's account of the rich man's encounter with Christ and we are truly on to something.
The rich man wanted Jesus to give him the simple black and white ticket into heaven. "What does it take to inherit eternal life," he asks. After Jesus goes over the list central to living out our faith, he applauds his faith. All the while our Lord knew what was hindering his life from being truly free. His worship had shifted from a God altar to that of a material things altar.
What would it look like if we set up altars in those places we spend the most time. These do not have to be physical places endowed with candles, Bibles, and kneelers. They could simply be a place we enter into and realize we are standing on Holy ground. A place where we are intentional to claim His presence there with us. Altars in your kitchen, garage, office, neighbors house, local homeless shelter...If we establish them He meets us there!
Blessings,
Jeremy
Monday, March 26, 2012
You're Welcome
How impressive it is to read of the witness of Harriet Tubman. Though her acts of courage through the underground railroad are well known, I was particularly inspired by the rationale given in today's reading.
I was FREE; but there was no one there to welcome me to the land of freedom.
It seems almost as if freedom alone was not enough; not when there were countless others still living under the yoke of slavery. Thus, she dedicated herself fully to the pursuit of liberation for all. And who would be there to welcome them into this new life? She would. She would make sure of it.
I am humbled to consider the times when I have been all too content to relish in the gifts of my own freedom, without much concern for the oppression of others. Especially when I consider the freedom that is mine in Christ, I wonder what I am willing to risk so that others might be received and welcomed into 'the promised land.'
The gift of welcome is perhaps just as important as the gift of freedom. "For whoever welcomes one of these children,"said Jesus, "welcomes me. And whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me" (Mk. 9:37).
Lord, forgive us the times in which we acted or assumed that freedom was a human achievement rather than a divine right. Let us be prepared to welcome our neighbor, no matter what the cost, just as Christ has welcomed us.
Darren
I was FREE; but there was no one there to welcome me to the land of freedom.
It seems almost as if freedom alone was not enough; not when there were countless others still living under the yoke of slavery. Thus, she dedicated herself fully to the pursuit of liberation for all. And who would be there to welcome them into this new life? She would. She would make sure of it.
I am humbled to consider the times when I have been all too content to relish in the gifts of my own freedom, without much concern for the oppression of others. Especially when I consider the freedom that is mine in Christ, I wonder what I am willing to risk so that others might be received and welcomed into 'the promised land.'
The gift of welcome is perhaps just as important as the gift of freedom. "For whoever welcomes one of these children,"said Jesus, "welcomes me. And whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me" (Mk. 9:37).
Lord, forgive us the times in which we acted or assumed that freedom was a human achievement rather than a divine right. Let us be prepared to welcome our neighbor, no matter what the cost, just as Christ has welcomed us.
Darren
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Here am I
How traumatic it must have been for a teenager encountering God with a message she would "carry within her womb God in flesh." Even more profound is the way she accepted without hesitation. I would need to crunch the figures, determine the outcome for the family, list the pros and cons and after all of this probably not move forward.
How difficult for us to simply say enough is enough, "I will follow you Lord, Here am I!" This truly is the season where we are reminded we must die to self, in order to be raised up anew in Him.
What does that mean for your life? What small step might you take in order for you to give up all that you are and take that leap into a divine purpose?
Here am I, the servant of the Lord : let it be to me according to your will.
Honored to be in this together,
Jeremy
How difficult for us to simply say enough is enough, "I will follow you Lord, Here am I!" This truly is the season where we are reminded we must die to self, in order to be raised up anew in Him.
What does that mean for your life? What small step might you take in order for you to give up all that you are and take that leap into a divine purpose?
Here am I, the servant of the Lord : let it be to me according to your will.
Honored to be in this together,
Jeremy
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Gardening for Lent
Seems to be a modern thing these days to engage in something 'organic.' Gardens are being planted all across the nation and churches are even beginning to realize there is something profoundly spiritual about preparing the earth for new life. Seeds are a must in the process which even non-gardners like myself learned from an early age. What we all struggle with is that in between time from planting to harvest. The seeds are literally being buried as if dead in order to produce new life. The miracle is that God take over and completes the process.
In our devotional readings today brother Oscar Romero knew something of this as his life went through a process of being buried to this world and grown anew in Christ. His words we would do well to remember in this season where Christ bids us yet again to come and die, so that we might truly live.
"No set of goals and objectives includes everything. That is what we are about. We plant the seeds that one day will grow. We water seeds already planted knowing they hold future promise...It may be incomplete, but it is a beginning, step along the way, an opportunity for the Lord's grace to enter and do the rest."
Unless a seed falls into the ground and dies : it cannot bear fruit or bless others' lives.
Dying so that we might live...honored to be in this faith practice with you!
Jeremy
In our devotional readings today brother Oscar Romero knew something of this as his life went through a process of being buried to this world and grown anew in Christ. His words we would do well to remember in this season where Christ bids us yet again to come and die, so that we might truly live.
"No set of goals and objectives includes everything. That is what we are about. We plant the seeds that one day will grow. We water seeds already planted knowing they hold future promise...It may be incomplete, but it is a beginning, step along the way, an opportunity for the Lord's grace to enter and do the rest."
Unless a seed falls into the ground and dies : it cannot bear fruit or bless others' lives.
Dying so that we might live...honored to be in this faith practice with you!
Jeremy
Friday, March 23, 2012
Transform Our Memories
One of my favorite 'preacher stories' is the tale of the older couple that came into the pastor's office in search of marital counseling. When asked to present the problem, the southern gentleman put it this way:
Well preacher, it's like this...whenever we get into a dispute, she gets all worked up and starts going historical on me.
"I believe you mean 'hysterical'" responded the pastor.
No sir, I mean historical!
How often do we interpret our memories through the lens of injustice and persecution? Believing ourselves to be 'in the right' at all times, we fail to see beyond our sense of entitlement to any value of our own suffering.
How bizarre it is then to see Jesus, who is genuinely innocent, drawing closer to the cross and to hear his invitation to "follow me."
How grateful I am for the wisdom of John Chrysostom, who declared that when we suffer something for Christ's sake, we should do so not only with courage, but even with joy. Too often I find myself reviewing the historical 'facts' of the day and believe that I have cause for complaint. I may even find others who agree with me (and tell me what I want to hear), but I must acknowledge that this is not the way of Christ.
Transform our memory, Lord...
For His Sake,
Darren
Well preacher, it's like this...whenever we get into a dispute, she gets all worked up and starts going historical on me.
"I believe you mean 'hysterical'" responded the pastor.
No sir, I mean historical!
How often do we interpret our memories through the lens of injustice and persecution? Believing ourselves to be 'in the right' at all times, we fail to see beyond our sense of entitlement to any value of our own suffering.
How bizarre it is then to see Jesus, who is genuinely innocent, drawing closer to the cross and to hear his invitation to "follow me."
How grateful I am for the wisdom of John Chrysostom, who declared that when we suffer something for Christ's sake, we should do so not only with courage, but even with joy. Too often I find myself reviewing the historical 'facts' of the day and believe that I have cause for complaint. I may even find others who agree with me (and tell me what I want to hear), but I must acknowledge that this is not the way of Christ.
Transform our memory, Lord...
For His Sake,
Darren
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Take it to Heart
In the world of college basketball, we are now deep into the season of "March Madness." For many, this is a time of much prophecy and prognostication. As brackets are filled out, predictions are made about who will rise and who will fall, and who will ultimately stand victorious in the end (Go Gators!). We love choosing our kings, even when we are dead wrong.
Along the way, a lot of words will be spoken on the subject, from the professional sportscasters to the amateur discussions around the office water cooler. Amazingly, 99% of these predictions prove incorrect as brackets are routinely busted by the unexpected underdog. But we were so sure of ourselves! Still, we are undaunted, as rationales are given as to which bandwagon we might join next and why we'll get it right this time. We are a fickle people. With all these wasted words, it is hard to know which voice is worth listening to and which is to be ignored.
Hold not your tongue, O God of our praise: for the air is full of empty words.
The ongoing conversation between Moses and Pharaoh is a great signpost toward the development of a more discerning ear. With each new episode, the writer begins, "then the Lord said..." In other words, you've heard from the others, everyone else has weighed in with their opinion (for what its worth), but now I want you to listen to ME. As is often the case, however, there were those "who didn't take the Lord's words to heart" and were left vulnerable to disaster "out in the open" (9:21, CEB).
As Jeremy expounded yesterday, the temptation to casually ignore the word of the Lord is ever before us. Jesus presses the matter even further, stating that some will be ashamed of his words, even THE Word, altogether (Mk. 8:38).
This should not be so.
In this holy season, let us reconsider to whom we give our crown. Many words will be spoken, with many promises made, but there is One who stands ready to back it up with covenantal faithfulness.
With the psalmist, let us praise Him in the midst of the multitude.
In Service to the Word,
Darren
Along the way, a lot of words will be spoken on the subject, from the professional sportscasters to the amateur discussions around the office water cooler. Amazingly, 99% of these predictions prove incorrect as brackets are routinely busted by the unexpected underdog. But we were so sure of ourselves! Still, we are undaunted, as rationales are given as to which bandwagon we might join next and why we'll get it right this time. We are a fickle people. With all these wasted words, it is hard to know which voice is worth listening to and which is to be ignored.
Hold not your tongue, O God of our praise: for the air is full of empty words.
The ongoing conversation between Moses and Pharaoh is a great signpost toward the development of a more discerning ear. With each new episode, the writer begins, "then the Lord said..." In other words, you've heard from the others, everyone else has weighed in with their opinion (for what its worth), but now I want you to listen to ME. As is often the case, however, there were those "who didn't take the Lord's words to heart" and were left vulnerable to disaster "out in the open" (9:21, CEB).
As Jeremy expounded yesterday, the temptation to casually ignore the word of the Lord is ever before us. Jesus presses the matter even further, stating that some will be ashamed of his words, even THE Word, altogether (Mk. 8:38).
This should not be so.
In this holy season, let us reconsider to whom we give our crown. Many words will be spoken, with many promises made, but there is One who stands ready to back it up with covenantal faithfulness.
With the psalmist, let us praise Him in the midst of the multitude.
In Service to the Word,
Darren
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Did You Hear Him?
Attempting to raise two teenagers and two toddlers is by far a true test of hearing from God. Every once and a while Elissa and I step back and wonder if we had heard correctly the number four with regards to children. As we laugh through the exhaustion, we believe without a doubt this was His will.
I am not sure why it took so long for Pharaoh to hear from God. In Exodus we even have the magicians telling Pharaoh, "This is the finger of God. But Pharaoh's heart was hard and he would not listen"(8:19). When the most trusted around you are speaking truth, why is it we are still so deaf?
Mark picks this up as he remembers for us a conversation Jesus was having with the disciples. Jesus asks them, "Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don't you remember?" (8:17)
The truth is we do fail to see and more often than not we do not hear nor do we remember what Christ was attempting to instill into our senses. He longs for us to give our lives so that justice and freedom can exist for all of His children. Has this been a common practice for you and yours? If not, what might God be daring you to do so that this can be a reality for someone who has never heard from the Savior's voice?
Attempting to Hear again today,
Jeremy
I am not sure why it took so long for Pharaoh to hear from God. In Exodus we even have the magicians telling Pharaoh, "This is the finger of God. But Pharaoh's heart was hard and he would not listen"(8:19). When the most trusted around you are speaking truth, why is it we are still so deaf?
Mark picks this up as he remembers for us a conversation Jesus was having with the disciples. Jesus asks them, "Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don't you remember?" (8:17)
The truth is we do fail to see and more often than not we do not hear nor do we remember what Christ was attempting to instill into our senses. He longs for us to give our lives so that justice and freedom can exist for all of His children. Has this been a common practice for you and yours? If not, what might God be daring you to do so that this can be a reality for someone who has never heard from the Savior's voice?
Attempting to Hear again today,
Jeremy
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Peace Indeed!
Pastor Darren is spot on with his longing for peace to reign out and the wars to finally end. What a profound legacy it could be for peace to be the norm over the next fifty - one hundred years. We must be bright enough or technologically advanced enough, or even theologically sound enough to make peace the norm and war, well quite frankly never an option.
Not sure how we can continue to allow His Word to speak daily into our life without becoming peacemakers along the way. Mark (8:1-10) unveils what Jesus did to avoid war at all costs. Simple really, he fed them when they were hungry. He went on to heal them when they were sick. He even had the audacity to hang out with the marginalized and touch everyone in His path with grace. No perfect religion required and your country of origin mattered not. When they disagreed he agreed to stay on a bit longer so that their eyes would eventually see.
Think about the billions of dollars we could save by practicing a new kind of war, one where everyone is invited to the negotiation table. Not with titles or power structures...invited because He wants us there. When we are all in it together we might just be over taken by peace. I am in!
"May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you : wherever he may send you..."
Jeremy
Not sure how we can continue to allow His Word to speak daily into our life without becoming peacemakers along the way. Mark (8:1-10) unveils what Jesus did to avoid war at all costs. Simple really, he fed them when they were hungry. He went on to heal them when they were sick. He even had the audacity to hang out with the marginalized and touch everyone in His path with grace. No perfect religion required and your country of origin mattered not. When they disagreed he agreed to stay on a bit longer so that their eyes would eventually see.
Think about the billions of dollars we could save by practicing a new kind of war, one where everyone is invited to the negotiation table. Not with titles or power structures...invited because He wants us there. When we are all in it together we might just be over taken by peace. I am in!
"May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you : wherever he may send you..."
Jeremy
Monday, March 19, 2012
A Longing for Peace
The readings from Common Prayer for today give voice to much discontent within my own soul.
Nine years. Nine years since the 'shock and awe' campaign into Iraq in search of WMDs and the occupation that has since followed. Over 10 years of the U.S. serving as the world's policeman, "costing thousands of soldiers' lives, tens of thousands of civilian lives, and billions of US dollars."
As a husband and father, I am also keenly aware that my three sons have never known a day when their own country was not engaged in war. I wonder what impact this culture of combat will have upon their generation.
For now, my family and I continue to pray for the wisdom of God to reign upon the world's stage. As more and more American troops are sent repeatedly through multiple deployments, I fear that the collateral damage to the collective soul of our nation will soon be beyond measure (if it isn't already).
I find that my heart is in accord with Moses, shouting "let my people go" (Ex. 5:1).
O Lord, our one and only King, by your might, bring them home. Enough empire building, already. Lead us in the ways of peace, dear Lamb, for we have proven ourselves incapable of finding it on our own.
Cure thy children's warring madness; bend our pride to thy control...
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, lest we miss thy Kingdom's goal....
Prayerfully,
Darren
Nine years. Nine years since the 'shock and awe' campaign into Iraq in search of WMDs and the occupation that has since followed. Over 10 years of the U.S. serving as the world's policeman, "costing thousands of soldiers' lives, tens of thousands of civilian lives, and billions of US dollars."
As a husband and father, I am also keenly aware that my three sons have never known a day when their own country was not engaged in war. I wonder what impact this culture of combat will have upon their generation.
For now, my family and I continue to pray for the wisdom of God to reign upon the world's stage. As more and more American troops are sent repeatedly through multiple deployments, I fear that the collateral damage to the collective soul of our nation will soon be beyond measure (if it isn't already).
I find that my heart is in accord with Moses, shouting "let my people go" (Ex. 5:1).
O Lord, our one and only King, by your might, bring them home. Enough empire building, already. Lead us in the ways of peace, dear Lamb, for we have proven ourselves incapable of finding it on our own.
Cure thy children's warring madness; bend our pride to thy control...
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, lest we miss thy Kingdom's goal....
Prayerfully,
Darren
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Two Sides of Holiness
The reference to Cyril of Jerusalem reveals a classic tenet of the Christian faith. How important it is to strike a healthy balance between what we say we believe AND what we actually do about it. It is a matter of knowing why we do what we do ( or not).
In those periods of history during which we are overly impressed with our own 'enlightenment,' the call for right practice is essential. Likewise, the moment we begin to boast in our own works (despite Paul's admonition in Ephesians 2:8-9), then it is time to reexamine the doctinal integrity of our own beliefs.
Orthodoxy and orthopraxy must remain intertwined. Perhaps the NT letter of James said it best in the recognition that "faith without works is dead." John Wesley made the same point in another way, as he declared that there is no personal holiness without the expression of social holiness. In other words, talk is cheap and mpulse driven action is often dangerous.
What does this mean for you in your current context? Sometimes I question whether or not I have 'ortho'--anything; either right beliefs or practices. Other times I tend to believe my way into acting, or act my way into believing.
Does God really care which one comes first? I'm not so sure.
Which one is easier for you?
Blessings to the believers and to the doers,
Darren
In those periods of history during which we are overly impressed with our own 'enlightenment,' the call for right practice is essential. Likewise, the moment we begin to boast in our own works (despite Paul's admonition in Ephesians 2:8-9), then it is time to reexamine the doctinal integrity of our own beliefs.
Orthodoxy and orthopraxy must remain intertwined. Perhaps the NT letter of James said it best in the recognition that "faith without works is dead." John Wesley made the same point in another way, as he declared that there is no personal holiness without the expression of social holiness. In other words, talk is cheap and mpulse driven action is often dangerous.
What does this mean for you in your current context? Sometimes I question whether or not I have 'ortho'--anything; either right beliefs or practices. Other times I tend to believe my way into acting, or act my way into believing.
Does God really care which one comes first? I'm not so sure.
Which one is easier for you?
Blessings to the believers and to the doers,
Darren
Saturday, March 17, 2012
The Saints Before
I love reading about those who achieved the status of Saint. Mostly because I realize the first 20 or so years disqualifies me...or does it. Simply want you to pray with me through the evening a prayer offered up by Patrick of Ireland (389-461) His life was profoundly simple and he truly loved our Lord with all that he was.
Christ be with me,
Christ before me,
Christ behind me,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.
In Christ,
Jeremy
Christ be with me,
Christ before me,
Christ behind me,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.
In Christ,
Jeremy
Friday, March 16, 2012
Holy Ground as a daily walk...
Is it just me or do you tend to claim the Holy Ground only when there is a burning bush as well? For most of my life I have easily claimed God's presence at those mountaintop experiences like a wedding day, birth of my children, adoption fulfilled, the lost being found, sinners repenting, a new service in the most unlikely place. We all have those 'ah ha' holy bump moments when you know the Holy Spirit is all over you, but it seems this Lent has become a profound exercise in claiming His presence in every moment!
Impossible you say, and to some extent I would agree. What would our days become if we focused the mind and trained the heart to claim His presence with every word, every encounter, every event simple and profound? In Exodus I quickly pass over the oft hand comment of God reminding Moses in chapter 3 verse 12 that, "I will be with you." No end state given. Not because God is not aware of time frames and deadlines but because God will never leave. How profound is that?
Holy Ground every step we take, daring us to take off our sandals in order to hear a bit about purpose, new life, and the possibilities abounding tomorrow.
That must have been the reality for Rachel Corrie as the bulldozer neared...she understood Holy Ground awaited beyond the place she stood for the last time. I pray God will continue to teach each of us to walk it daily, putting all our trust in "the Rock of our salvation."
With Much Love,
Jeremy
Impossible you say, and to some extent I would agree. What would our days become if we focused the mind and trained the heart to claim His presence with every word, every encounter, every event simple and profound? In Exodus I quickly pass over the oft hand comment of God reminding Moses in chapter 3 verse 12 that, "I will be with you." No end state given. Not because God is not aware of time frames and deadlines but because God will never leave. How profound is that?
Holy Ground every step we take, daring us to take off our sandals in order to hear a bit about purpose, new life, and the possibilities abounding tomorrow.
That must have been the reality for Rachel Corrie as the bulldozer neared...she understood Holy Ground awaited beyond the place she stood for the last time. I pray God will continue to teach each of us to walk it daily, putting all our trust in "the Rock of our salvation."
With Much Love,
Jeremy
Thursday, March 15, 2012
That's Some Kind of Dance
The further we get along in this Lenten journey, the more I feel that my devotion is beginning to wane. How miserably predictable. Must it always be so? By now, I can almost hear Jesus crying out from the garden, "can't you at least hold on long enough to pray with me?" Or in my case, can't you at least keep up with your own devotional reflection? Really?
Sorry for Wednesday's absence. I ask your forgiveness.
For today, I am intrigued by Mark's depiction of the death of John the Baptist. Most of all, I love the nature of Herod's admiration of this pivotal figure within the larger gospel story: When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed; and yet he liked to listen to him (6:20). Under the circumstances, this sounds like good preaching!
Despite John's approval rating with Herod, however, he is nevertheless beheaded at the request of Herodias...and all because of a really good dance! Isn't it amazing to consider the promises we choose to keep, and the ones we let slide? In this case, its okay for Herod's people to murder John the Baptist, as long as the king gets to keep his oath to his most seductive lobbyist, Herodias.
Amazingly, no one bothers to stop and ask whether this is really a good idea. Sure, the king is "deeply grieved, " but not enough to reconsider. Can't disappoint his guests, now can he? Of course not...they're backing his campaign (6:26).
The reading from Exodus 20:13, however, would beg to differ. You shall not murder.
Of course, the death of John, "a righteous and holy man" (6:20), foreshadows the death of Jesus. Soon, our Lord will be the one who is sold out, strung out, and hung out to die as a result of another sort of political dance. Like Herod and Pilate before us, some will grieve and some will look to wash their hands of it, but no one will be willing to stop it; not even God.
Naturally, this has serious implications for those who choose to follow the way of Christ. Without question, doing the will of God in Mark's gospel is both difficult and dangerous.
John Wesley called it a "vain hope" that "a child of Adam should ever expect to see the kingdom of Christ and of God without striving, without agonizing first 'to enter in at the strait gate'" (Sermon 17: The Circumcision of the Heart).
Cleanse our hearts, Lord, by your Spirit: that we might praise your holy name.
Darren
Sorry for Wednesday's absence. I ask your forgiveness.
For today, I am intrigued by Mark's depiction of the death of John the Baptist. Most of all, I love the nature of Herod's admiration of this pivotal figure within the larger gospel story: When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed; and yet he liked to listen to him (6:20). Under the circumstances, this sounds like good preaching!
Despite John's approval rating with Herod, however, he is nevertheless beheaded at the request of Herodias...and all because of a really good dance! Isn't it amazing to consider the promises we choose to keep, and the ones we let slide? In this case, its okay for Herod's people to murder John the Baptist, as long as the king gets to keep his oath to his most seductive lobbyist, Herodias.
Amazingly, no one bothers to stop and ask whether this is really a good idea. Sure, the king is "deeply grieved, " but not enough to reconsider. Can't disappoint his guests, now can he? Of course not...they're backing his campaign (6:26).
The reading from Exodus 20:13, however, would beg to differ. You shall not murder.
Of course, the death of John, "a righteous and holy man" (6:20), foreshadows the death of Jesus. Soon, our Lord will be the one who is sold out, strung out, and hung out to die as a result of another sort of political dance. Like Herod and Pilate before us, some will grieve and some will look to wash their hands of it, but no one will be willing to stop it; not even God.
Naturally, this has serious implications for those who choose to follow the way of Christ. Without question, doing the will of God in Mark's gospel is both difficult and dangerous.
John Wesley called it a "vain hope" that "a child of Adam should ever expect to see the kingdom of Christ and of God without striving, without agonizing first 'to enter in at the strait gate'" (Sermon 17: The Circumcision of the Heart).
Cleanse our hearts, Lord, by your Spirit: that we might praise your holy name.
Darren
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Freedom to Laugh and Love
What a profound privilege it is to pray, read scripture, sing, and lift up our concerns as a staff. Every Tuesday becomes a celebration as we sit in awe of what God continues to do. We are quite the odd bunch but our Creator knows how his dreams catch fire. It seems laughter is the fuel that fans the flames of love throughout this team.
We prayed together ... "Lord, you ask us not to fear but to trust. Help our unbelief and grant us faith to stand fast in our love for one another. Amen."
We are learning much throughout this Lenten Season about loving one another...laughter must play a role? Is laughter a fuel for your day?
Dear God let it be!
Jeremy
We prayed together ... "Lord, you ask us not to fear but to trust. Help our unbelief and grant us faith to stand fast in our love for one another. Amen."
We are learning much throughout this Lenten Season about loving one another...laughter must play a role? Is laughter a fuel for your day?
Dear God let it be!
Jeremy
Being Mindful of Freedom
Prior to diving into my devotional (as if anything else could be more important) I read an interesting article in Newsweek entitled The War On Christians by Ayaan Hirsi Ali. His thesis was a simple statement that Christophobia is on the rise. This he clearly documented through statistics clearly showing an increase of violence against Christians. He does make the case that across the globe within Muslim-majority nations Christians are becoming targets of hatred. There were graphic pictures of death and destruction because that seems to sell magazines. The article had tweaked that righteous tendency within just enough for me to enjoy a thought; those who commit evil should receive evil in return.
As I was beginning to dehumanize the other children of God (Fundamental Muslim Clerics and their students who kill non-Muslims) Mark's testimony about how Jesus after healing the Gerasene Demoniac, placed before him a life long mission, "Go home to your family and friends. Tell them how much the Lord has done for you and how he has had mercy on you." (5:19-20). God quickly intervened and asked me how successful I had been with my own family and circle of influence with regards to showing them His mercy. It was hard for me to continue down my war path.
Don't get me wrong, those who kill the innocent in the name of God should be brought to justice. I was challenged to live out our final devotional prayer "May the PEACE of the Lord Christ go with you...
With Love,
Jeremy
As I was beginning to dehumanize the other children of God (Fundamental Muslim Clerics and their students who kill non-Muslims) Mark's testimony about how Jesus after healing the Gerasene Demoniac, placed before him a life long mission, "Go home to your family and friends. Tell them how much the Lord has done for you and how he has had mercy on you." (5:19-20). God quickly intervened and asked me how successful I had been with my own family and circle of influence with regards to showing them His mercy. It was hard for me to continue down my war path.
Don't get me wrong, those who kill the innocent in the name of God should be brought to justice. I was challenged to live out our final devotional prayer "May the PEACE of the Lord Christ go with you...
With Love,
Jeremy
Sunday, March 11, 2012
The View from Here
Those who attended tonight's class on science and religion enjoyed a great lesson on perspective. While finding much hope in a complementary view of these two realms of understandng, we recognized how the rhetoric of fear stlll has the power to divide us from the gift of new insight and truth.
Then I came home and watched the documentary on one of my childhood heroes, Earvin 'Magic' Johnson, and his testimony of living with HIV. It was humbling to remember the barriers of fear and prejudice that were endured in the wake of his initial announcement, and inspiring to see his public witness since that time, now 20 years ago.
The reading from Mark's gospel for today reminds us that though the storms of life are real, many of our perceptions of those storms are illusory. What we believe to be a class five death sentence may actually prove to be a single cloud on the large radar screen. Still, when the waves are crashing down, it is also all too easy to assume that Jesus is sleeping on the job (we also assume that his "job" is to address our concerns immediately, lest we should suffer at all). Yet Jesus still asks us, Why are you so afraid? Where is your faith? Do you honestly doubt that I can handle your waves? Really?
Go ahead. Try Him. Today.
From where he sits, the view is a bit different. Really.
Darren
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Amen to That, Sister
Let nothing disturb you, nothing dismay you. All things are passing, God never changes. Patient endurance attains all things. God alone suffices.
--Theresa of Avila
What an appropriate prayer to be reading while privately aggravated over the fact that I cannot afford to 'lose an hour' in worship preparation thanks to daylight savings time.
What a blessed fool I am!
Darren
--Theresa of Avila
What an appropriate prayer to be reading while privately aggravated over the fact that I cannot afford to 'lose an hour' in worship preparation thanks to daylight savings time.
What a blessed fool I am!
Darren
Friday, March 9, 2012
Forgive our Greed!
I am now a true blogger...posting in the wee hours of the night. I have become what I use to make fun of.
Today was a tough devotional day wrestling with the notion that I might be the one Jesus was talking about who, "likes seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful."(Mark 4:18-19) Is this me Lord?
Then Basil of Caesarea, 4th century bishop and monk (what is that all about) hits me when I am down by daring to question me, "Are you a robber, you who consider your own that which has been given you solely to distribute to others?" I looked in my closest, food pantry, and bank accounts, he was speaking truth directly to me.
This season of Lent is shinning forth much uncomfortable light into the dark places of my life...how freeing it is to let Him in completely.
With Much Love for you and yours,
Jeremy
Today was a tough devotional day wrestling with the notion that I might be the one Jesus was talking about who, "likes seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful."(Mark 4:18-19) Is this me Lord?
Then Basil of Caesarea, 4th century bishop and monk (what is that all about) hits me when I am down by daring to question me, "Are you a robber, you who consider your own that which has been given you solely to distribute to others?" I looked in my closest, food pantry, and bank accounts, he was speaking truth directly to me.
This season of Lent is shinning forth much uncomfortable light into the dark places of my life...how freeing it is to let Him in completely.
With Much Love for you and yours,
Jeremy
Thursday, March 8, 2012
What to Say?
Pastor Jeremy...
I need to pause just for a moment in order to share a prayer concern. This morning after complaining about the mundane simple things of life...like teenagers not listening to all the wisdom I wanted to share or toddlers not finishing their breakfast, I heard a story which brought me to a quick repentance and into new life. Possibly you have noticed the Old Testament cycle of faithfulness, sin, consequence, repentance, forgiveness, new life.
I was able to catch up with a dear Army Chaplain Brother after breakfast. He and I were a ministry team during our first deployment to Afghanistan. He has since endured four more. He is currently serving a Special Forces Battalion at Fort Bragg. He asked if I had heard what happened there. I had not so he began to unpack this horrific story of a house fire which had claimed the life of his Soldier and two daughters six and four. The mother barely got out alive but finds herself in possibly one of the darkest places in all the world; surviving when everyone else did not. He is her pastor and God has called him to be present with her in this place.
As the tears and Holy Spirit bumps came forth I was in awe with how faithful he was in the midst of such tragedy. Not many words but God certainly spoke. I got off the phone and realized how selfish the words I had lifted up to Him in complaint and yet all around me were sacred, holy gifts.
What have your words done lately? Watch how they play out in the lives of those around you.
Paul has the last word, "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. we do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." (Rom. 8:26-27 NIV)
I need to pause just for a moment in order to share a prayer concern. This morning after complaining about the mundane simple things of life...like teenagers not listening to all the wisdom I wanted to share or toddlers not finishing their breakfast, I heard a story which brought me to a quick repentance and into new life. Possibly you have noticed the Old Testament cycle of faithfulness, sin, consequence, repentance, forgiveness, new life.
I was able to catch up with a dear Army Chaplain Brother after breakfast. He and I were a ministry team during our first deployment to Afghanistan. He has since endured four more. He is currently serving a Special Forces Battalion at Fort Bragg. He asked if I had heard what happened there. I had not so he began to unpack this horrific story of a house fire which had claimed the life of his Soldier and two daughters six and four. The mother barely got out alive but finds herself in possibly one of the darkest places in all the world; surviving when everyone else did not. He is her pastor and God has called him to be present with her in this place.
As the tears and Holy Spirit bumps came forth I was in awe with how faithful he was in the midst of such tragedy. Not many words but God certainly spoke. I got off the phone and realized how selfish the words I had lifted up to Him in complaint and yet all around me were sacred, holy gifts.
What have your words done lately? Watch how they play out in the lives of those around you.
Paul has the last word, "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. we do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." (Rom. 8:26-27 NIV)
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Never Go Alone
Several years ago I took a hiking and rafting trip through the Grand Canyon. It was a great experience, though one that included several physical challenges and even an occasional element of fear (native Floridians aren't nearly as adept at rock climbing as they might think). Perhaps the greatest challenge, however, was a matter of faith. Can I really trust that the contents of this small backpack are enough? Is this really all I need for this incredible journey? Will I every make it out of the canyon?
Perhaps you have found yourself in a similar valley, with doubts about your own provisions.
In Genesis 46, the Lord said to Jacob, "do not be afraid to go down to Egypt...for I myself will go down with you...and I will also bring you up again" (3-4).
In Mark 3, Jesus calls the disciples together for the expressed purpose of sending them out. But before they can "proclaim the message" or "have authority to cast out" the forces of evil, they had to first "be with him." Such is the only hope for a disciple of Christ.
Thus, this testimony is true: the Lord cares for the godly...they shall not be ashamed in bad times, and in the days of famine they shall have enough (Psalm 37:19).
With thanks for daily bread,
Darren
Perhaps you have found yourself in a similar valley, with doubts about your own provisions.
In Genesis 46, the Lord said to Jacob, "do not be afraid to go down to Egypt...for I myself will go down with you...and I will also bring you up again" (3-4).
In Mark 3, Jesus calls the disciples together for the expressed purpose of sending them out. But before they can "proclaim the message" or "have authority to cast out" the forces of evil, they had to first "be with him." Such is the only hope for a disciple of Christ.
Thus, this testimony is true: the Lord cares for the godly...they shall not be ashamed in bad times, and in the days of famine they shall have enough (Psalm 37:19).
With thanks for daily bread,
Darren
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
More Than Just Alive
They said to him, "Joseph's still alive! He's actually ruler of all the land of Egypt!"
In today's reading from Genesis, I am in awe of the pace of God. Within the larger narrative, it was not long ago that Joseph was lying face down in a ditch, left for dead by his brothers. Now, just a few chapters later, Joseph has all the resources of Egypt at his disposal. Even the mighty Pharaoh seems caught up in the joy of it all, as he appears almost giddy for his opportunity to take part in this remarkable story of reconciliation and blessing. "Don't worry about your possessions," he tells them, "because you will have good things from the entire land of Egypt" (v. 20).
Did you catch that? When the will of God is humbly carried forth in the lives of those whom He has called, then even the kings of this world will offer the best of what they have just to be a part of it. Pharaoh's generosity was an unexpected twist, but is a magnificent reminder to us that God's resourcefulness knows no limitation.
I doubt very seriously that Joseph felt worthy or competent enough to keep up with all that God was doing in his life and in the lives of his people. But imagine all that Joseph would have missed, and all those who would have gone hungry, had he decided to stay wallowing in the ditch.
Hmmm...
Thus, I say unto you:
"Don't be worried about the trip..." (v.24)
With Christ,
Darren
In today's reading from Genesis, I am in awe of the pace of God. Within the larger narrative, it was not long ago that Joseph was lying face down in a ditch, left for dead by his brothers. Now, just a few chapters later, Joseph has all the resources of Egypt at his disposal. Even the mighty Pharaoh seems caught up in the joy of it all, as he appears almost giddy for his opportunity to take part in this remarkable story of reconciliation and blessing. "Don't worry about your possessions," he tells them, "because you will have good things from the entire land of Egypt" (v. 20).
Did you catch that? When the will of God is humbly carried forth in the lives of those whom He has called, then even the kings of this world will offer the best of what they have just to be a part of it. Pharaoh's generosity was an unexpected twist, but is a magnificent reminder to us that God's resourcefulness knows no limitation.
I doubt very seriously that Joseph felt worthy or competent enough to keep up with all that God was doing in his life and in the lives of his people. But imagine all that Joseph would have missed, and all those who would have gone hungry, had he decided to stay wallowing in the ditch.
Hmmm...
Thus, I say unto you:
"Don't be worried about the trip..." (v.24)
With Christ,
Darren
Monday, March 5, 2012
Identities Revealed!
I wonder what would happen if we felt comfortable enough to take off all our masks and reveal our true identities within the walls of our churches. By identities I mean more the wounds, doubts, fears of the other, because of the past. If that could begin to take place within the church could you imagine what might happen to our neighborhoods and communities as we became so transparent and vulnerable. The blind would see again, the slaves would be set free and truth would be the norm. Boy, Satan would be terrified by all the transformations.
Today's scripture passage in Genesis provides a glimpse into truth telling and how it becomes healing redemption for Joseph and his brothers. "So there was no one with Joseph when he identified himself to his brothers. But his sobbing was so violent that the Egyptians couldn't help but hear him" (45:1-2 MSG) If you have time go back and read the story from beginning to end. After the weight of pretending was lifted new life ushered in for Joseph, his family and all of Egypt.
Lent allows us the chance to reveal the simple truth, we are messy sinful children but claimed and named by the Creator of the universe.
Thank you Lord for revealing yourself to us!
Jeremy
Today's scripture passage in Genesis provides a glimpse into truth telling and how it becomes healing redemption for Joseph and his brothers. "So there was no one with Joseph when he identified himself to his brothers. But his sobbing was so violent that the Egyptians couldn't help but hear him" (45:1-2 MSG) If you have time go back and read the story from beginning to end. After the weight of pretending was lifted new life ushered in for Joseph, his family and all of Egypt.
Lent allows us the chance to reveal the simple truth, we are messy sinful children but claimed and named by the Creator of the universe.
Thank you Lord for revealing yourself to us!
Jeremy
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Why Have you forsaken Me?
I shall not soon forget walking the streets in the Philippines with a couple of my experienced Soldiers. They knew the neighborhood quite well and began to teach me much about what I was seeing. Each bar along this particular strip was a bonafide brothel. They would point out how the operations worked. The outside girls were there to entice and bring in anyone who was willing to come in for a simple drink. Once inside there were opportunities for patrons to pay a certain price and anyone of the workers would comply to his demands.
For someone who has grown up in small town America, this was beyond disturbing. You could see it on their faces, that question the Psalmist so honestly puts forth, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? : and are so far from my cry and from the words of my distress? O my God, I cry in the daytime, but you do not answer : by night as well, but I find no rest." (Psalm 22:1-2)
This by the way is the same prayer our Lord put forth on the Cross just before his death. This is a season where my context of being a privileged white male, requires I hear the prayers of brokenness and the cries of oppression especially from my place of comfort. This month I must claim how far we still have yet to go to make sure women all over the globe are invited to the table as equals.
Lord thank you for this reminder...
In Christ,
Jeremy
For someone who has grown up in small town America, this was beyond disturbing. You could see it on their faces, that question the Psalmist so honestly puts forth, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? : and are so far from my cry and from the words of my distress? O my God, I cry in the daytime, but you do not answer : by night as well, but I find no rest." (Psalm 22:1-2)
This by the way is the same prayer our Lord put forth on the Cross just before his death. This is a season where my context of being a privileged white male, requires I hear the prayers of brokenness and the cries of oppression especially from my place of comfort. This month I must claim how far we still have yet to go to make sure women all over the globe are invited to the table as equals.
Lord thank you for this reminder...
In Christ,
Jeremy
Friday, March 2, 2012
He's Got the Whole World In His Hands
It was Karl Barth who first claimed that the best preaching happens with Bible in one hand and a newspaper inthe other. In observance of the World Day of Prayer today, I decided to see if the same could be said of intercessory prayer.
I believe it can. I sat with the Wall Street Journal webpage this evening and began praying through the headlines. I'm surely not the first person to do this, but I can say that it did affect the way I read the news. Before long I'd prayed for President Obama's talks with Iran over nuclear weapons, the young student involved in the Ohio shooting as well as his victims and their families, a U.S railroad tycoon fighting pancreatic cancer, tornado victims in Indiana, those who are about to lose their homes in Namie, Japan, and for the ongoing violence in Syria.
I am still no expert in determining a solution for these international concerns, but I am all the more grateful to be heard by the one who is. Remember me in you mercy, Lord: and unite us by your cross.
I believe it can. I sat with the Wall Street Journal webpage this evening and began praying through the headlines. I'm surely not the first person to do this, but I can say that it did affect the way I read the news. Before long I'd prayed for President Obama's talks with Iran over nuclear weapons, the young student involved in the Ohio shooting as well as his victims and their families, a U.S railroad tycoon fighting pancreatic cancer, tornado victims in Indiana, those who are about to lose their homes in Namie, Japan, and for the ongoing violence in Syria.
I am still no expert in determining a solution for these international concerns, but I am all the more grateful to be heard by the one who is. Remember me in you mercy, Lord: and unite us by your cross.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Not Without My Brother
Maybe I'm just seeing things, but I find an interesting parallel between today's two scripture lessons that I had never considered before.
Genesis 43 tells the continued story of Joseph and his now estranged family. In this particular scene, we do well to note Joseph has been transformed from 'spoiled little brother' showing off his coat, to 'beat to a pulp brother' lying destitute in the ditch, to 'prisoner of the enemy brother' in Egypt. Now, rather suprisingly, he is 'brother in charge' over the area food supply. This role is so unexpected that the rest of his brothers don't even recognize him (a good reminder that keeping company with God can have that effect)! At this point, Joseph is longing for reconciliation and it appears so close that he can almost taste it. But not without the youngest brother of all, Benjamin. Thus, after making veiled inquiries about Father Israel (Jacob), he tells them "You shall not see my face, unless your brother is with you." Upon returning home, Judah becomes the messenger. In response, the Father is grieved to relinquish his son in this way, but he knows that such a priceless offering is the best path for the rest of the family. How much better to only have to offer a bag of pistachio nuts for the occasion (43:11)! What everyone will soon realize, however, is the great joy that comes when 'your brother' and 'my brother' is discovered to be one and the same--'our brother.'
In similar fashion, I believe, Mark 1:1 tells us about "the beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God." Quoting Isaiah 40, he proceeds to declare: "See I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way..." In the original Greek text, it translates as behold, I send the messenger of me before the face of thee... In so doing, our brother John the Baptist comes to help make our paths straight. It can be done, says the messenger, but not without our brother, Jesus.
Reconciliation happens when see him face to face!
Genesis 43 tells the continued story of Joseph and his now estranged family. In this particular scene, we do well to note Joseph has been transformed from 'spoiled little brother' showing off his coat, to 'beat to a pulp brother' lying destitute in the ditch, to 'prisoner of the enemy brother' in Egypt. Now, rather suprisingly, he is 'brother in charge' over the area food supply. This role is so unexpected that the rest of his brothers don't even recognize him (a good reminder that keeping company with God can have that effect)! At this point, Joseph is longing for reconciliation and it appears so close that he can almost taste it. But not without the youngest brother of all, Benjamin. Thus, after making veiled inquiries about Father Israel (Jacob), he tells them "You shall not see my face, unless your brother is with you." Upon returning home, Judah becomes the messenger. In response, the Father is grieved to relinquish his son in this way, but he knows that such a priceless offering is the best path for the rest of the family. How much better to only have to offer a bag of pistachio nuts for the occasion (43:11)! What everyone will soon realize, however, is the great joy that comes when 'your brother' and 'my brother' is discovered to be one and the same--'our brother.'
In similar fashion, I believe, Mark 1:1 tells us about "the beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God." Quoting Isaiah 40, he proceeds to declare: "See I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way..." In the original Greek text, it translates as behold, I send the messenger of me before the face of thee... In so doing, our brother John the Baptist comes to help make our paths straight. It can be done, says the messenger, but not without our brother, Jesus.
Reconciliation happens when see him face to face!
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Teenagers & Common Prayer
This morning was a bold move for Elissa and me. With much fervor we decided to involve the teenagers in our devotional adventure through the liturgy. They could not define liturgy but it seems community is central to all of this anyway, so we took a gamble.
After responsively reading through the first prayer, Steffen said, "All we are doing is reading together?" He was certainly on to something. Singing through a quick couple of verses of our favorite Mount Song, Sanctuary (a shallow substitute for "Steal Away Jesus") and Brianna was actually joining in. Mostly to drown out the rest of us who struggled to sing on key. The Psalm was then shared by Steffen and Brianna responsively. Just as the scriptures were going to be opened and all the deep theological questions answered, time was up. The bus was headed our way, at least that was their story and we had little recourse.
What grand hopes we had for the Spirit to consume us as we faithfully sought Him out through this exercise. After the door had closed and a brief calm ensued, Elissa and I heard from God through Jean Vanier (A huge hero of ours) "They accept the community and the other members as they are; they are confident that together they can grow towards something more beautiful."
Wow! Thank you Lord for the gift of our built in community the family...how sacred this opportunity to be together even if the assignment is not completed. We praise you for bringing it to completion in your time frame.
Drink Deeply Community of Faith, how blessed we are to have one another...
Blessings,
Jeremy
After responsively reading through the first prayer, Steffen said, "All we are doing is reading together?" He was certainly on to something. Singing through a quick couple of verses of our favorite Mount Song, Sanctuary (a shallow substitute for "Steal Away Jesus") and Brianna was actually joining in. Mostly to drown out the rest of us who struggled to sing on key. The Psalm was then shared by Steffen and Brianna responsively. Just as the scriptures were going to be opened and all the deep theological questions answered, time was up. The bus was headed our way, at least that was their story and we had little recourse.
What grand hopes we had for the Spirit to consume us as we faithfully sought Him out through this exercise. After the door had closed and a brief calm ensued, Elissa and I heard from God through Jean Vanier (A huge hero of ours) "They accept the community and the other members as they are; they are confident that together they can grow towards something more beautiful."
Wow! Thank you Lord for the gift of our built in community the family...how sacred this opportunity to be together even if the assignment is not completed. We praise you for bringing it to completion in your time frame.
Drink Deeply Community of Faith, how blessed we are to have one another...
Blessings,
Jeremy
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Soul Food @ a Staff Meeting???
Pastor Jeremy here...new to the blogging world but what a powerful tool for us to connect daily even as our schedules and physical locations remain barriers to being among one another physically. Our prayer is that you are finding these daily soul food moments as nourishing as we are.
Today was one of those ah ha moments...awe struck as I looked around the room at our staff meeting realizing I was surrounded by a team that only God could assemble. At moments during our staff devotional,which was being led by one of our newest staff, I had an overwhelming sense of unworthiness. As if I had cheated in order to be a part of the team God was assembling for wonders we could not even fathom. She was new to leading a large staff in a devotional but she proclaimed "Our lives, O Lord, are in your hand : hold us up that we might stand." They were not merely printed words for her and because of that they became sustenance for us as well.
We heard from a 13th Century Franciscan theologian, "The purpose of the Scriptures, which come to us from God, is to lead us to the fullness of the truth." In the simple act of centering all that we were on all that He is through prayer, scripture, and sharing from our places of need the banquet had begun.
We took care of the logistics but in her simple act of leading us to the table...the fullness of the truth was all we really needed. Are you feasting this Lenten Season or are you still searching for the banquet table? We would love for you to join us.
In His Grip,
Jeremy
Today was one of those ah ha moments...awe struck as I looked around the room at our staff meeting realizing I was surrounded by a team that only God could assemble. At moments during our staff devotional,which was being led by one of our newest staff, I had an overwhelming sense of unworthiness. As if I had cheated in order to be a part of the team God was assembling for wonders we could not even fathom. She was new to leading a large staff in a devotional but she proclaimed "Our lives, O Lord, are in your hand : hold us up that we might stand." They were not merely printed words for her and because of that they became sustenance for us as well.
We heard from a 13th Century Franciscan theologian, "The purpose of the Scriptures, which come to us from God, is to lead us to the fullness of the truth." In the simple act of centering all that we were on all that He is through prayer, scripture, and sharing from our places of need the banquet had begun.
We took care of the logistics but in her simple act of leading us to the table...the fullness of the truth was all we really needed. Are you feasting this Lenten Season or are you still searching for the banquet table? We would love for you to join us.
In His Grip,
Jeremy
Monday, February 27, 2012
For Kayla
First of all, don't miss today's quote from Clement of Rome. It is simply too good to miss.
Secondly, I want to take this opportunity to share a matter of community concern. I got a call today from Shane Lamar. Shane is a long time member of the church, and plays a mean blues guitar out at the Worship at the Water on Sunday mornings. For years now, the people of this community have been praying for Shane's daughter, Kayla. Kayla has lived most of her life with an inoperable tumor. She and her father have almost worn out the roadways between Pensacola and St. Jude's Hospital, but she has done remarkably well, and her father attributes her sustaining health to the love and expertise of her caregivers and to the power of prayer.
Shane called me today with the sound of hurt in his voice. It seems that Kayla is experiencing some progressive weakness in her left side, which is adversely affecting her mobility. Whether it is directly related to the tumor is difficult to say as they await further test results. The doctors are at work, but no clear plan for treatment has been identified as of yet. What is worse is the way in which this latest development is affecting the young girl's psyche. Out of concern, Shane has asked for prayer for Kayla, that she might not lose heart. I'd ask that you pray for her father as well.
This we can do.
Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed. Pursue peace with everyone, and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord (12:12-14).
At the same time, dear Jesus, "make our spirits restless whenever we think that the way things are is the way things have to be" (p. 161).
Secondly, I want to take this opportunity to share a matter of community concern. I got a call today from Shane Lamar. Shane is a long time member of the church, and plays a mean blues guitar out at the Worship at the Water on Sunday mornings. For years now, the people of this community have been praying for Shane's daughter, Kayla. Kayla has lived most of her life with an inoperable tumor. She and her father have almost worn out the roadways between Pensacola and St. Jude's Hospital, but she has done remarkably well, and her father attributes her sustaining health to the love and expertise of her caregivers and to the power of prayer.
Shane called me today with the sound of hurt in his voice. It seems that Kayla is experiencing some progressive weakness in her left side, which is adversely affecting her mobility. Whether it is directly related to the tumor is difficult to say as they await further test results. The doctors are at work, but no clear plan for treatment has been identified as of yet. What is worse is the way in which this latest development is affecting the young girl's psyche. Out of concern, Shane has asked for prayer for Kayla, that she might not lose heart. I'd ask that you pray for her father as well.
This we can do.
Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed. Pursue peace with everyone, and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord (12:12-14).
At the same time, dear Jesus, "make our spirits restless whenever we think that the way things are is the way things have to be" (p. 161).
Sunday, February 26, 2012
At This Moment
At this very moment, I am listening to my youngest son wail in his crib. It is not a pleasant sound by any means, but I am at least aware of the cause of his distress. This is the night my wife and I have decided to take away the pacifier. This is our third child, so we've been through this routine before, and he's held on to his far longer than his older brothers did, but I'm not sure our experience is making it any easier for him (or me) at this moment. I can hear him now...Let my cry come before you, oh Lord; give me understanding, according to your word (Ps. 119:169).
Poor little man. He probably thinks he's being punished, though that is not the case at all. It's just time to grow. I know we'll push through this stage eventually; I just hope it will happen sooner than later (to my more compassionate friends...relax...mom just went up the stairs to the rescue).
None of us like to hear our loved ones suffer. Not in the slightest. Not even God. The Scriptures, however, can challenge us with the idea that the dynamics of love and discipline have greater similarity than we might first imagine. In our spiritual lives, what we consider as negligence on God's part may in fact be the wisdom of holy restraint.
Believing that God is more than a cosmic bellhop or catering service, the lesson from Hebrews 12 is magnificent in its explanation:
My child, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, or lose heart when you are punished by him; for the Lord disciplines those whom he loves, and chastises every child whom he accepts. Endure trials for the sake of discipline. God is treating you as children; for what child is there whom a parent does not discipline?...discipline seems painful rather than pleasant at the time, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it (5-7, 11).
In the time it took me to write this, my youngest son has fallen asleep. After a few consoling gestures accompanied by words of assurance from a credible source, life is good. He may not have gotten his pacifier back , but he did get a new understanding of his little world. The "peaceful fruit of righteousness" is now his...and mine!
Thanks be to God!
Poor little man. He probably thinks he's being punished, though that is not the case at all. It's just time to grow. I know we'll push through this stage eventually; I just hope it will happen sooner than later (to my more compassionate friends...relax...mom just went up the stairs to the rescue).
None of us like to hear our loved ones suffer. Not in the slightest. Not even God. The Scriptures, however, can challenge us with the idea that the dynamics of love and discipline have greater similarity than we might first imagine. In our spiritual lives, what we consider as negligence on God's part may in fact be the wisdom of holy restraint.
Believing that God is more than a cosmic bellhop or catering service, the lesson from Hebrews 12 is magnificent in its explanation:
My child, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, or lose heart when you are punished by him; for the Lord disciplines those whom he loves, and chastises every child whom he accepts. Endure trials for the sake of discipline. God is treating you as children; for what child is there whom a parent does not discipline?...discipline seems painful rather than pleasant at the time, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it (5-7, 11).
In the time it took me to write this, my youngest son has fallen asleep. After a few consoling gestures accompanied by words of assurance from a credible source, life is good. He may not have gotten his pacifier back , but he did get a new understanding of his little world. The "peaceful fruit of righteousness" is now his...and mine!
Thanks be to God!
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Prayers for the Extreme
While sitting in silence with the reading for today, I am reminded to pray for Iranian Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani, whose recent death sentence has filled the news reports in recent days. What the writers of Common Prayer have said of another historic instance of religious persecution is true of this case as well: "it is a reminder that extremists of all faiths have distorted the best that our faiths have to offer, and it is our prayer that a new generation of extremists for love and grace will rise up" (p. 158). In this and every season, Pastor Nadarkhani's story is a stark example of the cost of discipleship in many parts of the world. In faith, he is refusing to accept release, in order to obtain a better resurrection (Hebrews 11:35).
Let us pray for Pastor Nadarkhani, his wife and children, and for those who intend to carry out his sentencing. May God guide them through the wilderness; protect them through the storm. To paraphrase the saying from Mother Theresa today, it would not take much to show great love in this case. Let us also pray for humility, forgiveness, and wisdom to reign in the hearts of those who would be inclined to retaliate; either with the tongue or with the sword. O Lord, restrain our feet from every evil way (Ps. 119:101).
With quiet commitment...
Let us pray for Pastor Nadarkhani, his wife and children, and for those who intend to carry out his sentencing. May God guide them through the wilderness; protect them through the storm. To paraphrase the saying from Mother Theresa today, it would not take much to show great love in this case. Let us also pray for humility, forgiveness, and wisdom to reign in the hearts of those who would be inclined to retaliate; either with the tongue or with the sword. O Lord, restrain our feet from every evil way (Ps. 119:101).
With quiet commitment...
Friday, February 24, 2012
Does It Make You Wonder?
I've appreciated the words of encouragement regarding our little project here. One church member referred to it as "The E-Abbey," which I thought was clever. I hope readers will continue to enjoy it.
This morning was another example of how my sons continue to teach me a great deal about my own relationship to God. I'll save the specific details for Sunday morning, but suffice to say that the beauty and tension of most father/son relationships is the difference in perspective. This inspires comments from the son such as "you don't understand" or even the more dramatic "you don't love me." Parents, don't you just love these 'precious moments?'
In a similar episode this morning, I found myself looking for a compassionate, yet direct way to say, 'I do understand what you are saying to me, and how you feel about it, but the bottom line is I do not care for the things you are putting value on at the moment, and want you to understand that your current pain is brought about by your misguided priorities and foolish obsessions. If you could see what I see, or would just take my word for it, then life would be grand and we could move on down the road with gladness.' Or something like that.
Now maybe I'm just a cold and heartless parent, but sometimes I might wonder why my 8 year old doesn't get the point. Father Knows Best.
Until I remember that God probably wonders the same thing about me.
Therefore, with the boy as my teacher, it is the words of the psalmist that capture my attention today. Open my eyes that I may see the wonders of your law (119:18). When was the last time you or I took delight in "the law?" The "rule" from on high? I've pushed back against it, resisted it, even regretted it, but rarely do I say "Oh God, thank you for the ways in which you restrict me and redirect me (even when it is clearly for my own good)!" Ironically, however, this is what I expect from my own children. Though in my case, my only wonder is usually "well, why not?" when a better response might be "Okay, Lord...what now?"
The psalm indicates this major turn in perspective, and is a great sign of wisdom and maturity: My soul is consumed at all times with longing for your judgments. Longing? Really? Wow! What a different disposition!
In Genesis 41:13, the chief cupbearer said of Joseph, as he interpreted to us, so it turned out. Joseph, as one who was upheld and compelled by the will of God, was given the gift of new perspective. While others went about with eyes closed, frustrated and afraid, Joseph was consumed by a different kind of question: Okay, Lord...what now? In every instance, such perspective proved to be quite liberating for Joseph and for those who were under his care.
Trusting our Authority in this way requires much training, but is made all the easier when we understand that we have nothing to lose, and everything to gain.
Does my eight year old son get that? Not yet.
Do I?
Train us to be faithful, Lord, and teach us your ways so our lives may reflect you, to the glory of God the Father, Amen.
This morning was another example of how my sons continue to teach me a great deal about my own relationship to God. I'll save the specific details for Sunday morning, but suffice to say that the beauty and tension of most father/son relationships is the difference in perspective. This inspires comments from the son such as "you don't understand" or even the more dramatic "you don't love me." Parents, don't you just love these 'precious moments?'
In a similar episode this morning, I found myself looking for a compassionate, yet direct way to say, 'I do understand what you are saying to me, and how you feel about it, but the bottom line is I do not care for the things you are putting value on at the moment, and want you to understand that your current pain is brought about by your misguided priorities and foolish obsessions. If you could see what I see, or would just take my word for it, then life would be grand and we could move on down the road with gladness.' Or something like that.
Now maybe I'm just a cold and heartless parent, but sometimes I might wonder why my 8 year old doesn't get the point. Father Knows Best.
Until I remember that God probably wonders the same thing about me.
Therefore, with the boy as my teacher, it is the words of the psalmist that capture my attention today. Open my eyes that I may see the wonders of your law (119:18). When was the last time you or I took delight in "the law?" The "rule" from on high? I've pushed back against it, resisted it, even regretted it, but rarely do I say "Oh God, thank you for the ways in which you restrict me and redirect me (even when it is clearly for my own good)!" Ironically, however, this is what I expect from my own children. Though in my case, my only wonder is usually "well, why not?" when a better response might be "Okay, Lord...what now?"
The psalm indicates this major turn in perspective, and is a great sign of wisdom and maturity: My soul is consumed at all times with longing for your judgments. Longing? Really? Wow! What a different disposition!
In Genesis 41:13, the chief cupbearer said of Joseph, as he interpreted to us, so it turned out. Joseph, as one who was upheld and compelled by the will of God, was given the gift of new perspective. While others went about with eyes closed, frustrated and afraid, Joseph was consumed by a different kind of question: Okay, Lord...what now? In every instance, such perspective proved to be quite liberating for Joseph and for those who were under his care.
Trusting our Authority in this way requires much training, but is made all the easier when we understand that we have nothing to lose, and everything to gain.
Does my eight year old son get that? Not yet.
Do I?
Train us to be faithful, Lord, and teach us your ways so our lives may reflect you, to the glory of God the Father, Amen.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
In Search of Something Better
Good morning! While getting ready for the day, I find that I am still riding high from last night's Ash Wednesday Service. It was wonderful to be packed together in our beautiful sanctuary and to feel the Spirit of God among us. While millions join the theme I will sing! Indeed we did, and shall continue to do so. Many thanks to Jeremy Mount, Christine Dodd, and Dave Marnell for their leadership during the worship hour.
Several folks came by to pick up their copy of Common Prayer last night after the service. We have several copies left, and can always order more, so feel free to stop by if have not acquired one already.
In today's reading, the witness of Polycarp of Smyrna certainly stirs the imagination, but for me it is the opening line from Psalm 115 that sets the tone for the day. Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory. Immediately, I hark back to the New Testament lesson from last Sunday: For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as slaves for Jesus' sake (2 Cor. 4:5). That, and the reminder that whatever he wills to do he does certainly puts things into perspective (Ps. 115:3).
Genesis 40 is terrific storytelling, is it not? Stuck in the foreign dungeon as a servant to prisoners (does it get much lower?) Joseph is certainly in search of something more. But he keeps his head about him, and his faith, which enables him to make the kind of moves that will evetually get the attention of the king. I love the humanity of the tale. When the chief baker saw that the interpretation (to his coworker) was favorable he cries, "me next! Me next!" Tell me how everything is going to work out for me too! Kudos to Joseph for resisting the temptation to tell him what he wanted to hear, but speaking truth instead. Joseph might have been in search of something more than his current situation, but not at the expense of his own integrity and faith. I suspect God was pleased to honor the strength of his conviction in due time. Such is the case for all who risk martyrdom, or so I am led to believe.
Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give glory.
Carrying a similar theme, there is a passage from Hebrews 11 that jumps off the page at me. Speaking of the faith of the patriarchs, it says, they confessed that they were strangers and foriegners on the earth, for people who speak in this way make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. How true! When we speak about where we've been, without declaring that we wish to go back, then it must mean that we are in search of something new. When we confess that our current surroundings are not our home, and humbly acknowledge ourselves to be strangers in a strange land, then we are prepared to receive a better offer. When we are no longer satisfied with our own creations of circumstance, then we are free to pursue another life, another world, another home. As it is, they desired a better country, that is, a heavenly one (11:16).
Notice the importance of confession, however. Just as it is with the confession of sin, we cannot survive with one foot in the old life and one foot in the new. It will tear you apart. In order to pursue the new "city which is prepared" we must first be willing to become a stranger to the old. As Jesus explains, If you belonged to the world, the world would love you as its own...but I have chosen you out of the world (John 15:19).
Hence, the beauty of the closing prayer for today:
Give us grace to live faithfully whatever the cost.
Several folks came by to pick up their copy of Common Prayer last night after the service. We have several copies left, and can always order more, so feel free to stop by if have not acquired one already.
In today's reading, the witness of Polycarp of Smyrna certainly stirs the imagination, but for me it is the opening line from Psalm 115 that sets the tone for the day. Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory. Immediately, I hark back to the New Testament lesson from last Sunday: For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as slaves for Jesus' sake (2 Cor. 4:5). That, and the reminder that whatever he wills to do he does certainly puts things into perspective (Ps. 115:3).
Genesis 40 is terrific storytelling, is it not? Stuck in the foreign dungeon as a servant to prisoners (does it get much lower?) Joseph is certainly in search of something more. But he keeps his head about him, and his faith, which enables him to make the kind of moves that will evetually get the attention of the king. I love the humanity of the tale. When the chief baker saw that the interpretation (to his coworker) was favorable he cries, "me next! Me next!" Tell me how everything is going to work out for me too! Kudos to Joseph for resisting the temptation to tell him what he wanted to hear, but speaking truth instead. Joseph might have been in search of something more than his current situation, but not at the expense of his own integrity and faith. I suspect God was pleased to honor the strength of his conviction in due time. Such is the case for all who risk martyrdom, or so I am led to believe.
Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give glory.
Carrying a similar theme, there is a passage from Hebrews 11 that jumps off the page at me. Speaking of the faith of the patriarchs, it says, they confessed that they were strangers and foriegners on the earth, for people who speak in this way make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. How true! When we speak about where we've been, without declaring that we wish to go back, then it must mean that we are in search of something new. When we confess that our current surroundings are not our home, and humbly acknowledge ourselves to be strangers in a strange land, then we are prepared to receive a better offer. When we are no longer satisfied with our own creations of circumstance, then we are free to pursue another life, another world, another home. As it is, they desired a better country, that is, a heavenly one (11:16).
Notice the importance of confession, however. Just as it is with the confession of sin, we cannot survive with one foot in the old life and one foot in the new. It will tear you apart. In order to pursue the new "city which is prepared" we must first be willing to become a stranger to the old. As Jesus explains, If you belonged to the world, the world would love you as its own...but I have chosen you out of the world (John 15:19).
Hence, the beauty of the closing prayer for today:
Give us grace to live faithfully whatever the cost.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
A Call to Prayer
O Lord, let my soul rise up to meet you
as the day rises to meet the sun.
What a wonderful sentiment for the beginning of each new day. Whatever darkness may have cloaked me through the night, this simple greeting reminds me that 'this is the day the Lord has made.' As morning breaks, the sun will eventually shine over the horizon once more. God has done his part, and calls me to "rise up" and meet him in this work of new creation. Amazing.
The lessons for February 22 (p. 154 of Common Prayer) are right on time for me. The reading of Psalm 108 calls me to "wake up" and speak out with words of confession, proclamation, and praise. Why? "Because (God's) loving-kindness is greater than the heavens and (God's) faithfulness reaches to the clouds." This is the God who saves us and answers our cries, says the psalmist.
The reading from Genesis continues the Joseph narrative. His master saw that the Lord was with him...which seems to change the entire course of Joseph's misfortune. It makes me question what others might see in you or me, were we ever stripped of the security of our relationships or dazzling accessories. Would they see the Lord, or just a more desperate, pitiful version of myself? Like many of us, Joseph had other personal attributes that he could fall back on in order to make his way in the world, but as the Scriptures are quick to 'reveal,' relying on something as shallow as charm or good looks alone will get you in an even bigger heap of trouble (39:6-19). A better plan is revealed in the reading from Hebrews: without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him (11:6).
And how about that quote from Catherine de Hueck Doherty? We must make the other person aware we love him. If we do, he will know that God loves him. He will never hunger again. I was not familiar with dear Catherine until now, but this makes me wonder what else she had to say! Just moments ago, I had a living reminder come into my office to affirm the truth of that message. Acknowledging my own sin, I find it much easier to ask God to communicate his love for others so I won't have to follow through with it myself. The problem is, they're still hungry and I go home none the wiser.
Soon, we'll be gathering together for our Ash Wednesday service. It is a fine time for confession, and the acknowledgement that we are dust. Thank be to God, who stoops to meet us there at ground level, and who is prepared to blow the breath of new life once again.
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
as the day rises to meet the sun.
What a wonderful sentiment for the beginning of each new day. Whatever darkness may have cloaked me through the night, this simple greeting reminds me that 'this is the day the Lord has made.' As morning breaks, the sun will eventually shine over the horizon once more. God has done his part, and calls me to "rise up" and meet him in this work of new creation. Amazing.
The lessons for February 22 (p. 154 of Common Prayer) are right on time for me. The reading of Psalm 108 calls me to "wake up" and speak out with words of confession, proclamation, and praise. Why? "Because (God's) loving-kindness is greater than the heavens and (God's) faithfulness reaches to the clouds." This is the God who saves us and answers our cries, says the psalmist.
The reading from Genesis continues the Joseph narrative. His master saw that the Lord was with him...which seems to change the entire course of Joseph's misfortune. It makes me question what others might see in you or me, were we ever stripped of the security of our relationships or dazzling accessories. Would they see the Lord, or just a more desperate, pitiful version of myself? Like many of us, Joseph had other personal attributes that he could fall back on in order to make his way in the world, but as the Scriptures are quick to 'reveal,' relying on something as shallow as charm or good looks alone will get you in an even bigger heap of trouble (39:6-19). A better plan is revealed in the reading from Hebrews: without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him (11:6).
And how about that quote from Catherine de Hueck Doherty? We must make the other person aware we love him. If we do, he will know that God loves him. He will never hunger again. I was not familiar with dear Catherine until now, but this makes me wonder what else she had to say! Just moments ago, I had a living reminder come into my office to affirm the truth of that message. Acknowledging my own sin, I find it much easier to ask God to communicate his love for others so I won't have to follow through with it myself. The problem is, they're still hungry and I go home none the wiser.
Soon, we'll be gathering together for our Ash Wednesday service. It is a fine time for confession, and the acknowledgement that we are dust. Thank be to God, who stoops to meet us there at ground level, and who is prepared to blow the breath of new life once again.
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
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