God's Beauty in Contrast to Man's Fallen State

 

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south. Some wandered in desert wastes, finding no way to a city to dwell in; hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted within them. Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He led them by a straight way till they reached a city to dwell in. (Psalm 107:1-7 ESV).

 

While taking the Roaring Fork Motor Trail in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Mary and I came to an overlook that gave us an incredible view of the Smokies. Just off the paved area I found a path that I thought would lead to an even better view. As you can see from the picture of the trail I’ve attached, it was well worn and only slightly uphill. I walked along the path for a few minutes and realized the “light ahead” was merely a tease to keep me going. In fact, the further I traveled the denser the foliage became. There was no view at all. I recognized the beauty of the trees and undergrowth, however, it was “ugly” compared to the vista at the pull-off. The designers of the road saw to it that the best was reserved for the pull-off, not the path chosen by a few travelers who thought they knew better than the designers.

 

One way to understand the beauty that God created is to understand its opposite. God is the ultimate “Designer.” Consequently, we were travel away from His design we experience the ugliness and sorrow of being separated from God. This is true of the world in general. Because of our sin, this world is not the way it ought to be. Sin has brought hardship and ugliness into our lives and into this world, though God designed it all to be beautiful.

 

We know that God has restoration in mind because we don’t feel “at home” in a world broken because of sin. We are homesick for a world of peace and beauty. We are homesick to be with God. When we’re stuck in brokenness and facing the ugliness of this world of sin, we feel homesick for God’s world of goodness and beauty. Our reading today points out the sorrow and longing of this homesickness. The world can feel like a endless path, providing no place where people can rest, no place where they can settle and be at peace. But the Lord, whose “love endures forever,” offers redemption. The Lord hears his people cry out in their trouble caused by sin, and he delivers them from distress. God brings them to a place where they can settle and live in peace. “He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.”

 

If you find yourself stuck on this uphill path that seems to lead you deeper into the dense trees and underbrush of sin, turn around and find the Lord standing there, waiting for you to come back into His design. Jesus has left us, though often we strike out on our own in stubborn independence that leads to destruction. Come on back to the pull-off! He put it there for you!

 

God's Beauty in His Plan

 

[God answered Job] “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements—surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy? Or who shut in the sea with doors when it burst out from the womb, when I made clouds its garment and thick darkness its swaddling band, and prescribed limits for it and set bars and doors, and said, ‘Thus far shall you come, and no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stayed’?” (Job 38:4-11 ESV).

 

I often stop at the buildings in Cades Cove. The one pictured here is the Henry Whitehead Place, named after Henry Whitehead, a talented carpenter, married Matilda Shields Gregory. Matilda’s previous marriage did not last, as her husband, Ebenezer, deserted her and their young son, Josiah. As a result, Matilda had to raise their son on her own and do so without a home. Her brothers and the community stepped in to help her by quickly building a functional cabin in 1881 (smaller structure at the rear of the main cabin). Even with its rushed construction, including roughly cut logs and a rubble stone chimney, Matilda was supposedly grateful for her new house. A few years later, Matilda met Henry. The two courted and eventually married in 1887, and Henry assured his new wife that she would have a much better home to live in.

 

With his carpentry skills, Henry decided to make a 16-foot by 18-foot sawn log cabin for their family. The construction of the cabin included 4-inch walls made from thick logs, making it well-insulated. Henry also constructed a brick chimney for the home. Most homes had rubble chimneys like that of Matilda’s first home, as having a brick chimney was a rare amenity for Cades Cove cabins at the time. A cool fact about the chimney of the new cabin is that Henry made his own bricks from scratch! As a final touch, Henry even went on to join both the new and old homes with a covered walkway. By 1898, Matilda and the rest of the Whitehead family had a beautiful cabin that outshined her previous home. In turn, the Henry Whitehead Place in Cades Cove eventually paved the way for the look of future cabins built in the community.

 

In our reading today, Job is questioning God. He certainly may be seen as someone who had reason to do so. However, God’s answer to him was something of a surprise. God tells him that he had no way of fully understanding all of what He was doing in his life. Like all of God’s work, we often don’t understand the full plan of God in our lives. However, we do know the “Who” of the plan. God is good and desires only good for His children.

 

Some may have lamented the “fate” of Matilda Shields Gregory after her husband deserted her and all she had was a small hastily constructed cabin to raise her son in. Little did they know the final outcome that would come to her through meeting Henry Whitehead. If we simply look at our circumstance now, we will surely miss the final outcome prepared for us through Jesus!

 

Living Things both Great and Small

 

O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. Here is the sea, great and wide, which teems with creatures innumerable, living things both small and great. There go the ships, and Leviathan, which you formed to play in it. These all look to you, to give them their food in due season. When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are filled with good things. (Psalm 104:24-28 ESV).

 

You cannot take the loop through Cades Cove without seeing wildlife. While Mary and I were there recently we saw some wild turkeys browsing through the grass. I took the picture attached while two Eastern gobblers casually went about their search for something to eat. You may find it interesting to know that in North America, there is one wild turkey species, Meleagris Gallopavo, but it is divided into five recognized subspecies: Eastern, Osceola, Rio Grande, Merriam's, and Gould's. Each has a slight difference in appearance and habit. I’ve seen three of the five in the wild. They are strangely beautiful, especially when the gobblers are in full strut with their tails fanned. While not the smallest or largest of birds, they have their place in our wonderful world.  

 

This vast diversity is a beautiful part of God’s creation, as our reading shows. In his wisdom God made so many different animals and plants that we haven’t been able to count them all. And in his wisdom God made many different cultures and people as well. This psalm uses poetry to tell about the powerful and beautiful way God made the world. It invites us to praise God for such diverse beauty and for creating the world in the best way possible.

 

Each of us brings our own type of beauty to the world. The distinctive gobble of the Eastern turkey that breaks the early morning silence is quite different than the melodious coo of a Morning Dove though both are incredibly beautiful. God combines with each species’ huge variety of sounds to create beauty in this world. In all these ways God displays his love for his creation. We should learn an important truth from this. We are also very diverse as humans. There is great beauty in each of us as He has planned and purposed each of us to be a part of a world that is so beautiful and diverse! Praise Him for that!

 

And... It Was Good!

 

And God said, “Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kinds—livestock and creeping things and beasts of the earth according to their kinds.” And it was so. And God made the beasts of the earth according to their kinds and the livestock according to their kinds, and everything that creeps on the ground according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. (Genesis 1:24-25 ESV).

 

As I anticipated Mary and I are indeed in the Smokies as I am writing this devotional along the theme of God’s beauty. As you can see from the picture I have attached, God knows how to create beauty. This view was captured in Cades Cove looking over a pasture toward some of the mountains surrounding the Cove. It was late afternoon and the sun was behind me. There was a brief shower earlier and the grass was still a bit wet. The clouds remained, though they only provided an accent to the mountains. The purple ironweed was still blooming, though many of the other wildflowers have already shed their flowers in the reseeding ritual of spring and summer. It was surprisingly uncrowded. We heard a few birds and felt a slight breeze as the incredible feeling of peace washed over us.

 

When the first chapter of Genesis speaks of God creating the heavens and the earth, it does so by describing a pattern of six days. And several times in the process we read, “God saw that it was good.” God took joy and satisfaction in the things he created. God saw that the world was good and beautiful. In fact, God made the world to be beautiful: the light, the sky, the land, the sun, the fish, the animals. God called all these things “good.” And when God created humans, God created us in his own image. Men and women are all created in the image of God, beautiful like their creator.

 

If you are ever tempted to doubt your own worth as a person, remember that the creator of the universe made you in his own image. Remember that God looks on his beautiful creation, including you, and calls you “good” and beautiful. That cannot be in doubt! What a great day to see the hand of God in His creation!

 

The Beauty of God's Creation

 

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard. Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber, and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy. Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them, and there is nothing hidden from its heat. (Psalm 19:1-6 ESV).

 

I am sorry for the older picture attached today. As you know I typically write ahead of publishing. I am writing this devotional on Saturday, August 9^th for publishing on Sunday, August 17^th. Mary and I should be in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, by then. My hope is to write a bit while I am in the mountains continuing this theme of “The Beauty of God’s Creation.” That will allow me to have current pictures to attach and give me a chance to digest being immersed in one of the most beautiful of places God has created. For reference, the photo today was obviously taken in the fall of the year; however, more importantly, it was taken literally outside the front door to the cabin where we are staying. It is the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. I like to spend the mornings fly fishing for trout while we’re there. You can see why it is just fine to merely “fish” and not necessarily “catch” any fish! It truly is a glorious place of quiet and beauty.

 

Our reading today is from Psalm 19. It shows that we can even learn about God’s glory through nature. It says, “The heavens declare the glory of God” (v. 1). Another way to put it, according to this psalm, is that “the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” This is a strange and poetic picture. The sky can’t talk! The psalm acknowledges this in verse 3: “They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them.” And yet the sky, by its simple, beautiful existence, communicates to the world about God, its creator.

 

God has created a beautiful world. This world, simply by being what God created it to be, gives voice to the beauty of God himself. It is a reminder to us that we, too, can glorify God with our words, by loving each other and themselves, and by caring for the world that God loves. The sky uses its clouds, rainbows, and shades of gray and blue to tell about the glory of God. Think of all that we can do as we use our words and even our whole life to share about the glory of our great God!

 

“See” you from the Smokies… tomorrow!

When Life Is Uphill - Pt 5

 

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. (Romans 8:26-30 ESV).

 

The picture I’ve attached is from August, 2021. Mary and I had finally gotten to a place with our health issues that we could travel. Mary was just beginning to recover from the major surgery of 2020 and Covid was under more control with vaccines and public awareness. I had had the first two of what would become six stents placed in my heart. Things seemed to be normalizing. So, it was off to a bit of vacation in the Smokies. This picture was of the sunset in Cades Cove. It was a fabulous trip. “All things” seemed to have been worked out for our good. Little did I know then that there was yet to be some more uphill travel in our future!

 

This realization taught me a great deal more about the meaning of the promise in our reading today. Christians sometimes have the best intentions but say the wrong things. In attempts to comfort someone who is grieving the death of a loved one, we have been known to offer platitudes like “God had a plan” or “She’s in a better place” or “His suffering is over.” All true, but perhaps we should simply imitate the Spirit with “wordless groans,” offering a hug and ongoing prayers.

 

The greater the degree of suffering on this earth, the more we long for the day when we will be with Christ in heaven, free from the tyranny of sickness and sorrow. In this passage, the apostle Paul seeks to encourage God’s people with both strength to get through today and a glorious vision of the future. He tells us that in all things God works for our ultimate good and his purpose. This does not mean all things are inherently good but that God redeems the pain and blesses us. This verse is more than a platitude; it’s a promise based on God’s enduring love. And, therefore, it can be a great anchor point in our journey. Trust God to do His good work in your life!

 

When Life is Uphill - Pt 4

 

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we await for it with patience. (Romans 8:18-25 ESV).

 

While I am writing this devotional about a week before it will be published, my hope is that by the time you read it Mary and I will have “snuck off” for a quick trip to our place. Of course, those of you who know us also know that place is the Smoky Mountains. The picture I’ve attached was taken some years ago in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, at the Old Mill. Let me make the comparison and illustration of today’s thought clearer. This morning (actual day) I mowed. I started at 10:30 am and finished about 1:30 pm. Yes, I was riding the tractor, but it was really hot even at that hour. The heat index reached 105, while the air temperature hit 101. It is a typical Texas summer day for August. My curiosity led me to weigh before and after mowing… I lost two pounds just riding the mower! It is hot. In the Smokies the weather is much better. The forecast is for highs in the lower 80’s and lows in the 50’s. And, I won’t be doing anything more strenuous than casting my fly rod! Texas heat is nothing compared to that!

 

Our reading begins with that kind of declaration in relationship to our uphill journey in life. To be clear, claiming what this verse says is easier for some than for others. It depends on what kind of suffering you have experienced or are currently enduring. However, Paul is being realistic. Whether it’s trying to make sense of ourselves, fighting off sin, struggling in relationship, bearing wounds of brokenness, being limited by health, enduring the pain of depression or a host of other situations, suffering is real for Christians as well as non-Christians.

 

Paul wants us to gain perspective, so he invites us to compare our suffering to the glory that will be revealed in us. But Paul does not define that glory as life without adversity, as if we won’t have health issues or financial needs or marital struggles or the like. Our goal is not so much to beat suffering as it is to live fully and completely as children of God. He also reminds us that we have his Spirit—always. And the Spirit will help us in all situations, interceding for us even if we struggle to pray. Even in the worst of times, we are not alone. We can find great comfort in that.

 

When we suffer, we need that reminder. We may want an easier life, but what we need most is to know that God is continually with us and at work in us. Trust that!

 

When Life Is Uphill - Pt 3

 

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. (1 Peter 1:3-9 ESV).

 

Mother Teresa was a faithful mission worker in Calcutta, India, and she described her work of mercy with the poorest of the poor in these words: "We want to create hope for the person… we must give hope, always hope." She was determined to pass along something of the living hope she had through her Lord Jesus Christ. When we are struggling uphill in our lives, hope is essential. And this is not the kind of “maybe-so” kind of hope so many have experienced; it is the kind of “know-so” hope that we receive from our experience with Jesus.

 

Two thousand years earlier the Apostle Peter wrote a similar declaration in a letter that is now part of the Bible. Our reading today comes from the first part of that letter. He wanted to share with other believers that we have "new birth into a living hope" through Jesus' resurrection. He wrote to people who were scattered throughout the Roman Empire. Because of persecution for their faith in Christ, many had left their homes and lost their possessions. It was certainly an uphill journey!

 

Peter reminded his readers that despite hardships and challenges, they had a living hope because of Jesus Christ. They had received a new identity through their new birth into Christ's family. Those believers who had given up everything for Jesus had an inheritance that, unlike the things they had owned before, could "never perish, spoil or fade." If you find yourself somewhere in life without much hope, be assured that because of Jesus Christ you too can have living hope. This is your “know-so” hope that will carry you to a mountain-top view!

 

When Life Is Uphill - Pt 2

 

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ESV).

 

Perhaps the most uphill struggle of life is the death of a loved one. The grief experienced is universal. All of us have all tasted the bitter pain of saying good-bye to a loved one who has died. Maybe you have shed tears at the funeral of your spouse, or you have endured the unimaginable pain of burying a child. That walk through the valley of the shadow of death may have been last month or many years ago, but the ache never goes away. The bitter taste seems to ebb and flow, but never vanishes. Our reading today identifies our Lord as “the Father of all mercies, and the God of all comfort” (v. 3). We must explore that if we are to reach the view at the top of the mountain.

 

Unfortunately, people don’t always know what to do with those who mourn. Well-meaning folks may try to minimize the pain by using trite phrases or empty words. We might sentimentalize death or deny the finality of it. Jesus cautions us that denying our pain is a dead-end road that offers little comfort.

 

In Jesus’ kingdom, mourning is a reminder of comfort. Jesus himself, when confronted with the reality of the grave, wept (cf. John 11). He mourned. He grieved. He wept. And he grieves with us in the loss of a spouse, child, or other loved one. He stands alongside us in our pain, and he comforts us. The reason He is uniquely qualified for this ministry of comfort it that he came to shed his blood; He faced death squarely, submitted himself to it, and conquered it on our behalf.

 

Because he triumphed over death, we can be assured that one day we will live in a world without disease, mourning, or cemeteries. Knowing that Jesus has overpowered death offers us comfort when we mourn.

 

When Life Is Uphill - Pt. 1

 

How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? Consider and answer me, O Lord my God; light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death, lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,” lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken. But I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because he has dealt bountifully with me. (Psalm 13:1-6 ESV).

 

I love/hate the idiom, “Life is an uphill battle.” I’m sure you have heard or perhaps used that expression before. It is a common idiom that describes a situation where we face a multitude of challenges and struggles to make progress. It suggests that achieving goals or simply maintaining a decent life requires significant effort and perseverance, like the difficulty of walking or climbing uphill. It may be a health crisis, a relationship break, or even a career or financial setback. Whatever the reason, we often reach a point when it seems impossible to go any further. Well, like the meme I’ve attached, this is the time when we need to remember the view from the top!

 

David, described in the Bible as a man after God’s own heart (cf. Acts 13:22), never shied away from questioning God during times of crisis. Perhaps his most famous questions can be found at the beginning of one of his psalms of lament: “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” (Psalm 13:1). How could David question God so boldly? We might think David’s questions shine a light on his lack of faith. But we’d be wrong. In fact, it’s the very opposite. David’s questions grew out of his deep love for and faith in God. David can’t make sense of his situation—so he asks God, “How can this be? And where are you?” Likewise, when you find yourself questioning God, take comfort that we, like David, can question God in faith.

 

We have another source of comfort. As Christians, we have deep reassurance even when life’s problems seem impossible to overcome. We know that, even if we don’t see relief on this side of heaven, we will see wholeness and healing in heaven. However, in returning to David we find that he has something to say about eternity too. In what is probably the most well-known psalm, David speaks of God’s continual care. God is pictured as a shepherd who provides food, rest, guidance, and protection from enemies, and even from fear. We might expect the following words to be David’s grand finale: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life” (Psalm 23:6, KJV). What could be better? David continues and powerfully answers that question: “I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Though David’s life will end, God’s care for him will never end.

 

The same is true for us. Jesus promised to prepare a place for us in the house of the Lord (cf. John 14:2-3), and God’s care for us there is eternal. Like David, you may find yourself amid struggle today. In the next few days, I hope that the devotions will help you find comfort and assurance of God’s perfect plan for your life.

 

A Knocking at the Door

 

[Jesus said] “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.” (Revelation 3:20-21 ESV).

 

We can’t leave this brief series without looking back a bit. Perhaps you remember I started it with the image of the journey toward the “chapel”. That was an intentional image to call to mind our walk with Jesus as believers. Theologically we could simply say that is our sanctification; or, simply reference the process of making each of us ready for our eternal home in heaven and ultimate glorification. Of course, our journey has a beginning as well. That is that moment we are born again. Our reading today calls that to mind as Jesus directs the Apostle John to write the last letter to the seven churches addressed to the Laodiceans. The picture of Jesus knocking at the door is perfect, especially when we remember that Jesus came to us with the invitation to be redeemed and take this marvelous journey.

 

We should remember that the Laodiceans were so bad off that Jesus threatened to spit them out of his mouth. But he comes in mercy and graciously knocks, wanting to provide forgiveness and to join with his followers in the banquet prepared for everyone in God’s eternal kingdom. This invitation has continued throughout history. Believers who respond are sinners saved by God’s amazing grace, restored and revived through Jesus. He is at the right hand of God the Father, who is, and was, and always will be. We can find comfort in this today and tomorrow and forever.

 

The reading emphasizes the personal nature of faith, highlighting that salvation is not merely a communal experience but a calling by God made to individuals to come be a part of His family. It speaks of a reciprocal relationship, where believers share in Christ's victory and reign, just as He shares in their lives and experiences. The promise of sitting on the throne with Christ is a powerful symbol of ultimate victory and eternal glory for believers. The scene is that of victory, salvation, and full life with the Lord of lords and King of kings. Could there ever be a more wonderful end to this journey of ours! Whatever the path looks like right now, trust that it will end with Jesus taking you into eternity as His chosen child, forever! If you are hearing Him knocking today, open the door!

 

The Letter to the Church in Laodicea

 

[Jesus said] “And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: ‘The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s creation. I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. For you say, “I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing,” not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see. Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’” (Revelation 3:14-22 ESV).

 

Today we come to the last letter Jesus told the Apostle John to write to the seven churches. That church was in Laodicea. It is both striking and terrifying at the same time. He has nothing positive to say about this church. He does graciously warn them and call them to repentance, saying, “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline.” As I look at the churches of our day, I cannot help but come to the conclusion that this letter is the most fitting for many of these. We dare not heed the words of Jesus here bot as individuals and churches.

 

Jesus names himself the “Amen,” which means, “So be it” or, in other words, “This is the truth.” Jesus is the true One, and what he says is trustworthy and true. When he speaks, so be it. He is “the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation.” Jesus rebukes the Laodicean church for its ineffective ministry. The cold mountain water of Colossae, just ten miles away, and the hot mineral water of Hierapolis, six miles away, both served people well. Cold water refreshes, and hot water heals. But Laodicea did not have a natural water source, so when either the cold or hot water made it to them, it was lukewarm and not beneficial.

 

Jesus uses this local situation to describe the ministry of the church. It neither refreshed nor healed; it was putrid. Jesus wished for this church to be either refreshing or therapeutic so that their ministry would be effective. These words were harsh but needed. The Spirit calls us to search our hearts too. Are we lukewarm… it is not to late to open the door to the full work of Chrit in our lives!

 

The Letter to the Church in Philadelphia

 

[Jesus said] “And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: ‘The words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens. I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie—behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you. Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth. I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown. The one who conquers, I will make him ka pillar in the temple of my God. Never shall he go out of it, and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’” (Revelation 3:7-13 ESV).

 

One of our “must see” places when we visit the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is Cades Cove. Within the eleven-mile loop of the cove are several restored cabins and churches of the community that once thrived there. The picture I’ve attached is of the Primitive Baptist Church. You can enter the structure that still has the pews and pulpit of that long ago time when it was one of the active churches for the people of Cades Cove. I can easily imagine how central it was to the community of people living around it. I have pastored such a church also located in Tennessee. Santa Fe Baptist Church of Maury County, Tennessee, is still doing a great work in their community. They minister to one another with love and respect, affecting the entire community with a sense of the grace and love of God.

 

The church in Philadelphia in our reading today was also such a church. It is one of two churches that do not receive a complaint from Jesus (the other is Smyrna). What a compliment from “him who is holy and true”! Imagine what it was like for the church in Philadelphia to be greeted this way. The One who is holy and true is wholly set apart from all that is worldly. Everything that Jesus says and does is holy and true, both now and forevermore.

 

Jesus also says that he “holds the key of David” (cf. Isaiah 22:20-22). It is in the Isaiah passage that we find some background on this phrase. The one who holds this key can open and close the door of the house of David. Undoubtedly this refers to the kingdom that God promises to establish forever in Christ, a descendant of David (cf. 2 Samuel 7:11-16; Matthew 1:1; Revelation 22:16.) And when he opens or shuts the door, it is permanently open or shut. When Jesus died on the cross, the curtain in the temple in Jerusalem “was torn in two from top to bottom” (Mark 15:38). God did that, opening the way into his presence through the death of Jesus for all who are redeemed by His work of grace. Jesus has opened the way to his kingdom.

 

Do you see it? This is indeed the chapel we are toddling along to enter when we arrive! I hope to see you walking along with us! Trust in Jesus!

 

The Letter to the Church in Sardis

 

[Jesus said] “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: ‘The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God. Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent. If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you. Yet you have still a few names in Sardis, people who have not soiled their garments, and they will walk with me in white, for they are worthy. The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’” (Revelation 3:1-6 ESV).

 

When I was in high school, one of the rainy-day games we played in lieu of outdoor football practice was called “last man standing.” The coach would put four wall mats together on the floor of the gym as everyone on the team gathered on hands and knees on them. The object of the “game” was to be the last person left on the mats. There were no rules, which led to a pretty rowdy exercise. Usually the winner consisted of one of the bigger guys, typically a guard or tackle. As the number dwindled left on the mat it became more strategic as teams formed to corner one person and force them off the mat. Of course, the “last man standing” needed be especially wary at the end avoiding a sneak attack from others.

 

The city of Sardis had a citadel on top of a mountain. The residents considered themselves safe from all enemies. But they became complacent and lazy about defense, and the city was captured. The church at Sardis had apparently followed a similar path. Prone to laziness in their spiritual life, the church was headed for destruction. Jesus knew their deeds and was not impressed. Though they had a reputation of being alive and healthy, the Lord of the church saw the truth and said, “You are dead.” Even so, Jesus graciously urged them to remember what they had received and heard. Calling them to repent, he gave them hope.

 

Sometimes in our walk to the chapel we can become complacent, especially when it seems as if everything is going well. We must take care to remember what we have received and heard. We must be intentional and alert to dangers both within and outside our immediate circumstance.  Our enemy never rests in his plotting against us!

 

The Letter to the Church in Thyatira

 

[Jesus said] “And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write: ‘The words of the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and whose feet are like burnished bronze. ‘I know your works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance, and that your latter works exceed the first. But I have this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols. I gave her time to repent, but she refuses to repent of her sexual immorality. Behold, I will throw her onto a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her I will throw into great tribulation, unless they repent of her works, and I will strike her children dead. And all the churches will know that I am he who searches mind and heart, and I will give to each of you according to your works. But to the rest of you in Thyatira, who do not hold this teaching, who have not learned what some call the deep things of Satan, to you I say, I do not lay on you any other burden. Only hold fast what you have until I come. The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron, as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, even as I myself have received authority from my Father. And I will give him the morning star. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” (Revelation 2:18-29 ESV).

 

To the church in Thyatira, Jesus reveals himself as “the Son of God.” This is the first time we find this name for Jesus in the book of Revelation. Jesus also connects this name to the one “whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze” (cf. Revelation 1:14-15).

 

In many cities like Thyatira in the Roman Empire, emperor worship and idol worship were impossible to miss. But if you worshiped the true Son of God, Jesus Christ, you could walk and move about with confidence amid the idol temples and altars. You could do that even if it meant you would be ostracized from the business world, rejected in your neighborhood, and perhaps beaten and put into jail or even put to death.

 

John had been an eyewitness at the transfiguration of Jesus, and he had heard the voice from the cloud saying, “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him” (Luke 9:35). John knew Jesus, and now Jesus presents himself as that same Son of God to the church in Thyatira. Jesus comes today and simply asks who He is to you? Is He merely a good teacher, a miracle worker from storybooks? Or do you know him as the only Son of God who came to this world to provide salvation and to rule as King over all earthly kings and rulers? Jesus is the living and reigning Son of God whose eyes penetrate to the heart and whose feet stomp out injustice. The call is clear… shall we join in the great chorus of all true believers to worship him, or will we be deceived by the Jezebel Spirit at work among us?

 

The Letter to the Church in Pergamum

 

[Jesus said] “And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: ‘The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword. I know where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in the days of Antipas my faithful witness, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. But I have a few things against you: you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, so that they might eat food sacrificed to idols and practice sexual immorality. So also you have some who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it.” (Revelation 2:12-17 ESV).

 

 

The city of Pergamum was the capital of the Roman province of Asia (present-day Turkey). The Roman ruler there held the power of the sword; at his decision someone could immediately be put to death. So, in that setting Jesus, “the ruler of the kings of the earth” (cf. Revelation 1:5), with “the sharp, double-edged sword” of his mouth (1:16; 2:12), claimed ultimate authority over eternal life and death. Jesus commends the church for “remaining true to [his] name” and staying in Pergamum. They took up permanent residence in this city filled with pagan temples and idol worship. They became rooted in the Pergamum community and built up the church in a most difficult location, where Satan lived and reigned.

 

Jesus had previously taught his followers to do this: “On this rock [the so-called ‘gates of Hades’ at Caesarea Philippi in northern Galilee] I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (cf. Matthew 16:18). Similarly, Jesus is saying, “In Pergamum I will build my church, and the throne of Satan will not overcome it.” Satan will never overcome a faithful community of Jesus-followers. Trust the One who is Judge to keep his word on your behalf. Be humble, be obedient, be strong.

 

If ever there was a time when the church needed to hear a message from the Lord like this one, this is that time in America!

 

The Letter to the Church in Smyrna

 

[Jesus said] “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: ‘The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life. I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’” (Revelation 2:8-11 ESV).

 

The next letter is to the Church in Smyrna. It is a message from Jesus to the church, praising their faithfulness despite suffering and poverty. Jesus acknowledges their tribulation and slander from those who falsely claim to be Jewish. He warns of impending persecution, including imprisonment, but encourages them to remain faithful "unto death," promising them a "crown of life" and freedom from the second death for those who overcome.

 

To the family of God, near and far, young and old, rich and poor, Jesus speaks as “the First and the Last, who died and came to life again.” Jesus presents himself to the church in Smyrna as divine and sovereign, being over all history—past, present, and future. As the First and the Last, he covers not only the ends of the spectrum but also everything in between.

 

Even death could not hold Jesus; he is alive! As we believe that Jesus suffered and died for us, we can find comfort in knowing that death will not hold us either. In Jesus, like Jesus, we will be raised to new life. In Jesus we have assurance that we will live forever with him. With this truth Jesus encouraged and strengthened our brothers and sisters in Smyrna. He went on to mention their afflictions and their poverty. He knew they were slandered by people who said they followed God but did not. Those people were agents of Satan, he said. Jesus called his true followers not to be afraid of any suffering or persecution they would face. “Be faithful, even to the point of death,” he said. He had already been there for them. The One who is First and Last would hold them through all that would come their way. This same Jesus will also be with us through the difficulties we face. Jesus is the One who gives life and victory, now and forever. That makes our walk to the chapel much easier to face!

 

The Letter to the Church in Ephesus

 

“To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: ‘The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands. I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false. I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name’s sake, and you have not grown weary. But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent. Yet this you have: you hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.’” (Revelation 2:1-7 ESV).

 

The background of the picture attached today is that of the ancient ruins of the city of Ephesus. Etched into a stone in front of one doorway is a symbol that looks like a fish. According to tradition, this may have identified the house as a place where Christians lived and met together for worship, prayer, and fellowship. Many believe this to be one of the first churches the Apostle Paul established. It was a vibrant church that preached the gospel faithfully. It was a church that was a beacon of light in a very dark world.

 

However, in our reading today, we see a very different church. Jesus tells John to write to the church in Ephesus, saying, “I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance… You have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.” Jesus’ followers in Ephesus are commended for holding up the light of Christ against the darkness of this world. The apostle Paul had earlier reminded the Ephesians, “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against… the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (cf. Ephesians 6:12). Even then, we begin to see the church wander from their “first love.” They must have grown weary in their battle against these dark forces and hardships.

 

Today, these forces still assail the Church. The attack is subtle as the enemy uses deceptive half-truths in his quest to render the message of the gospel ineffective. Many have turned to sources other than the Holy Spirit in favor of a quick victory over the immoral culture that has grown in our era. God’s Word to us today remains: Be strong, know the difference between light and darkness, be wise and ready to “live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Ephesians 4:1). Our first love is demonstrated in an unwavering commitment to Jesus alone!

 

Let me pose a question for you to ponder… are your conversations and communications more politically centered than Jesus centered? Do you find yourself trying to change people through political change or through the work of the Holy Spirit in the hearts and minds of individuals? Our first love demands that we make Jesus our only priority!

 

The Letters to the Seven Churches

 

The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. (Revelation 1:1-3 ESV).

 

Today I am beginning a new series of devotionals. I hope they will not seem redundant as you read them; and, that they will give you insight into your personal journey as you make your way to “the Chapel.” I hope you recognize that reference from yesterday’s devotional. It is my way of saying all believers are making their way to heaven. That is Jesus’ promise to us (cf. John 14:1-7). He is the ultimate “way” to our eternal home; however, we cannot deny that each of us face different twists and turns along the way. By looking at the message Jesus has for the seven churches of the Revelation, we will learn a great deal about our personal application of the grace of God in each of our experiences.

 

When a curtain is pulled back to reveal a new work of art, the assembled crowd responds with appreciation and applause. Something that was a mystery is made known. A similar thing happens in the Book of the Revelation. God pulls back a curtain that has been concealing the finished work of Jesus Christ. Here God reveals to believers in Christ the source of their comfort, courage, and hope. The Lord initially revealed all of this to the Apostle John, one of Jesus’ closest followers, through the work of an angel. And John testifies that this aligns with what he witnessed firsthand as one of Jesus’ disciples.

 

In our reading today, John writes about the Lord of the church of all ages, including the seven churches addressed in the following two chapters (Revelation 2-3). This testimony guides us to continue as the Church of Jesus today. As a part of this Church, we need to know its Lord and King, who at the same time is Lord and King over this world and all creation. It is a clear call for us to reject all that contradicts God’s word and God’s will. We are called both individually and corporately to stand for all that is righteous, true, and good. These letter to the seven churches will be challenging for us; however, we dare not ignore the direction of Jesus in them, especially in a day like our present time. Walk with me through these and renew your commitment to follow the words of Jesus! This is the way to be blessed (v. 3).

 

Toddling Along to the Chapel

 

For all our days pass away under your wrath; we bring our years to an end like a sigh. The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away. Who considers the power of your anger, and your wrath according to the fear of you? So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom. Return, O Lord! How long? Have pity on your servants! Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, and for as many years as we have seen evil. Let your work be shown to your servants, and your glorious power to their children. Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands! (Psalm 90:9-17 ESV).

 

Much of the inspiration of this devotional is rooted in a photo that was taken by Maycie McBride Pollard, a wonderful young lady who was married last Sunday. She and her husband, Clayton, asked me to be the officiant for their wedding. It was a wonderful occasion held at La Palmilla near Glen Rose, Texas. The photo was taken early Monday morning as Mary and I said our good-byes and made our way to the car to go home. It seemed to say to me that life has been a very pleasant “stroll to the chapel” throughout the experiences Mary and I have shared in our life together. Oh… yes, we do toddle along these days!

 

Let me dig a little deeper though. Our reading today, Psalm 90, was written by Moses. It is a prayer reflecting on the brevity of human life in contrast to God's eternal nature. It acknowledges human sinfulness and the consequences of divine judgment, while also expressing a longing for divine favor and wisdom to guide the people. The psalm ultimately points to God's steadfast love as the source of lasting joy and the foundation for meaningful existence. It seemed appropriate for today as I celebrate my 76^th birthday!

 

Of course, there have been challenges for both Mary and I in these nearly fifty-six years of marriage. However, it cannot be denied that God has been ever-present to show us His steadfast love in all of it. You see, the purpose of it all has been to simply get us where we will forever be after these frail bodies finish our journey on this earth. The picture of us holding on to one another walking together is such a grand illustration of that steadfast love God has given to us. Sometimes she has held on to me, and sometimes I’ve held on to her, and all the time we’ve done life together. That will only be greater once we enter the grand gate of our eternal home. Until He establishes the work of our hands, we look forward to a few more steps as we continue to toddle along to the chapel He has established!

 

My hope is that you will join us in your own journey toward His chapel. Trust Him to work all things to your good!