Where Did August Go?

And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man produced plentifully, and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:16-21 ESV). August is almost gone. I wish I could say that it didn’t seem to fly by, but it did. In a way I like that. Most my favorite things happen in the fall. It won’t be long until I’m out in the woods of Middle Tennessee watching the leaves turn and drop; listening for the soft sounds of the world as it wakes up in the morning; and, taking in the wonderful scent of the forest as it readies for winter. It will be here very soon. Time is like that. It passes quickly. Our reading today is about a man who didn’t realize the precious nature of time. Jesus tells the story of a rich farmer who enjoyed great success. Reflecting on his accomplishments, he remarked how he would need to build bigger barns to hold his bounty. He was making plans to expand his business even further, going into other cities to sell his crops. But God told him, "You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?" We can find some commendable things about this rich man. He was a hardworking farmer. He probably would have had to work longer and get up earlier and expend more energy than the other farmers of his day to achieve such success. But his mistake wasn't in being successful in his work. His mistake wasn't even in acquiring possessions. His mistake was failing to make plans for eternity. He was living large. But he forgot that the clock was ticking, that life was passing by. And this man who died, leaving all his possessions behind, is like many people today. They just want to enjoy the moment. "Take it easy!" they say. "Eat, drink, and be merry!" Yet God says that is not the way to live. In Psalm 10, the psalmist describes an arrogant, wicked man. One of the most striking things he says about this man is in verse 4: "In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God". That says it so well, doesn't it? There was no room for God, no room for the Creator, Lord, and Savior in all this man's many thoughts about this and that. Our lives on this earth may be very brief, but when we fill our thoughts with the eternal God and His purposes, we prepare ourselves for an endless life in His presence. How’s your timekeeping?

The New Kyle Field

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV). The 2015 College Football Season is almost here! Texas A&M will have the new Kyle Field ready for the first home game. The seating capacity will be 102,512. It is the biggest in the SEC and third largest in the nation. Only Michigan and Penn State are larger. Perhaps I will get to attend a game there someday soon. The yells will be deafening in the new environment! There’s a greater stadium, with greater fans though. The writer of Hebrews says we are surrounded by them in our lives today. They are a “great cloud of witnesses” according to our reading today. I believe these people are our friends and loved ones in heaven who are watching us and cheering us on. There are others as well. Hebrews 11 is a record of the great men and women of faith who died serving God. We sometimes refer to it as the Hall of Faith. You read about Abraham, Moses, Joseph, Gideon, Samson, David, Rahab, Daniel, and the other great faithful. I am convinced they cheer us on too. Certainly, as one interpretation indicates, they are simply people of faith who have gone before us, giving us a model to follow so that we might live and exercise our faith as they did. Reading about the lives of these men and women who have walked with God and trusted Christ and stood strong in the face of trials and persecutions can add strength to our journey. However, another way to look at it is that these men and women aren't simply giving us a template to follow, but are actually observing us and taking note of our progress in the faith. They are the "cloud of witnesses" watching us and cheering us on. I need those cheers from time to time. Don’t you? We are in the race of our lives on earth, and we don't how long it will last. I need all the help I can get. I don’t desire to simply show up. I want to play to win. The stakes are high. Fortunately we have the greatest of “yell leaders” (that’s what we call those who cheer the team on at Aggieland). Jesus is watching us, turn for turn, step for step. He has taken those steps; he has made those turns himself. He will not just cheer us on, but lead us to victory. Come on. Let’s get in the game! We can win this one!

The Peacemaker

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. (Colossians 1:15-20 ESV). The Colt Single Action Army which is also known as the Single Action Army, SAA, Model P, Peacemaker, M1873, and Colt .45 is a single-action revolver with a revolving holding six cartridges. It was designed for the U.S. government service revolver trials of 1872 by Colt's Patent Firearms Manufacturing Company, today's Colt’s Manufacturing Company, and was adopted as the standard military service revolver until 1892. It was also known as “the gun that won the West.” I have a Ruger Blackhawk single-action western style revolver that is similar. They are fun to shoot; and, I can imagine how important they were in the 1800’s as the western part of our country was being settled. We certainly don’t settle our disputes now the same way as then; but, we all desire to live at peace in our community. Thankfully we have excellent law enforcement officers who help insure our safety and peace. Even with that, I find my search for peace goes beyond my environment. I want peace in my life too. After all, isn’t that one of the promises of Scripture? The Peace of God is often spoken of in the New Testament and it should be our present possession. It is something that belongs to us here and now. From the first moment that we place our faith in Christ, we can begin to experience the peace of God. This is the reference Paul has in our reading today. Many people think that this peace is simply an absence of conflict or anxiety. But biblical peace is much more than that. It is a strong, elevating, positive good in our lives. It isn't just an absence of anxiety; it is the presence of something wonderful beyond our comprehension. Peace has been given to us as a gift from God because we have been justified by faith. It isn't describing a feeling; it's describing a fact. It doesn't come from what we are, but from what He has done. In other words, you can't have the peace of God until you first have peace with God. If we are fighting with God and continually resisting His plan and purpose for our lives, then we won't experience His peace. Maybe it’s time for you to trust in the real “Peacemaker.” His name is Jesus!

Balanced

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again. (Philippians 1:21-26 ESV). On April 29th of this year, Nik Wallenda, of the famous Flying Wallendas, walked on top of the Orlando Eye, which at 400 feet tall is higher than the Statue of Liberty. A crowd watched as he hopped into a capsule, rode to the top, climbed out and walked onto a steel beam about 6 inches wide. "It's a little windy," Wallenda told NBC's Today show, which broadcast the event. He said the structure was "really wet" as he began his 4 minute walk. Really? There isn’t enough of anything to make me desire to do that! But, with his incredible balance, it seemed to be an easy feat for him. The apostle Paul wrote the words in our reading from a dungeon in Rome, facing imminent execution, and Christians through the centuries have repeated them. This is the right kind of balance for our lives on this earth. The apostle Paul loved life. And the simple fact is, no one should love life more than the Christian. We can enjoy it because we know it comes to us from the hand of a loving God. But as blessed as we may be in this life, there is more. Just as I said yesterday, there is more to be had at the end of our lives than anything we may experience now. All the great things we do experience in the here and now are just hints of heaven, hints of something better that will come for the man or the woman who has put faith in Jesus Christ. C. S. Lewis made this statement: "All the things that have ever deeply possessed your soul have been but hints of [heaven] — tantalizing glimpses, promises never quite fulfilled, echoes that died away just as they caught your ear." He went on to say, "If I find in myself a desire, which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world." There is another place, another time, another life. And life on earth, be it a little while or a long while, is a nanosecond compared to eternity. Trusting in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord is the only key that will open the doors of heaven to us after we leave this life. How’s your balance? Trust in Jesus today!

More, Please

He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man's heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and to do good as long as they live; also that everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil—this is God's gift to man. I perceived that whatever God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it. (Ecclesiastes 3:11-14 ESV). Mary and I stopped at the Krispy Kreme the other day. I ordered two filled donuts and she ordered two chocolate glazed with sprinkles. We had to wait an unusually long time in the drive through to place our order. I could see inside the store, the sign was “lit,” and I was ready for my donuts. It was almost as bad as the bell and Pavlov’s dogs! When we finally reached the pick-up window, I was more than ready for my snack. The server came to the window and told me the price and I paid. He then handed me a full dozen donuts saying, “I’m sorry for the delay. Please accept this full dozen to make up for the wait.” I thought, I’ll wait longer if I can get more! I wanted to ask him for more, please! Deep down inside we're all like that. We always want a little bit more out of life. We chase after the newest, the latest, the freshest, and the best of everything. We want more. That shouldn’t be a surprise. That is the way God has made us. But here's the problem, as much as we see, taste, and experience life, it always seems like it just isn't quite enough. It never satisfies. And, it never can satisfy. We are also created that way too. God has placed a seed of eternity deep in our innermost being. In our heart of hearts, there is a recognition that this world won't be able to deliver on its promises. No matter what this world gives us, we find ourselves wanting more. We want more life; more hope; more joy; more peace; more satisfaction; and, ultimately, more of the presence of God Himself. In heaven, those desires will be fulfilled in a way beyond what we can imagine. But until that day when we cross over to the other side, He willingly gives us more and more and more of Himself. And that's the closest thing we have to heaven on earth. I’ve thought about that a lot over the years. Somehow we cling so tenaciously to the things of this world, we fail to recognize the glory of the things waiting for us. Of course I am not advocating that we give up in this life. We are called to persevere. We are urged to make everyday count. However, that is not the end of life. It is merely a step in that direction. I do want “more, please”! god has promised to deliver that to me through the gift of grace in the completed act of Jesus’ sacrifice on my behalf. Now that’s even better than getting a dozen free Krispy Kreme!

I'll Buy, You Fly

So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. (Philippians 2:1-4 ESV). One of the perks of being in the ministry is the many opportunities to go out to eat with folks. It is not unusual to have meetings scheduled around breakfast or lunch. They are great; however, the times I most enjoy are the spontaneous times of fellowship around a meal. Not long ago I was spending some time with a friend and it was lunch time. I suggested we ride into town and get a bite to eat. The natural conversation of “where” and “what do you like” ensued. I simply said, “I’ll buy; you fly.” He looked at me oddly, obviously not understanding that idiom. So I explained that if he would drive I’d buy the meal. I didn’t care where he chose, just as long as he would drive. It was merely a way of cooperating together toward a common goal. Our reading today is a strong indication of this principle working in our lives. The apostle encourages the church to “be of the same mind.” Paul wanted them to recognize that while they may take different paths in life, they should seek to end at the same place. The goal should always be to be of one mind and spirit in the fellowship and the family. It is the practice of humility. Andrew Murray said: “Humility is perfect quietness of heart. It is for me to have no trouble; never to be fretted or vexed or irritated or sore or disappointed. It is to expect nothing, to wonder at nothing that is done to me, to feel nothing done against me. It is to be at rest when nobody praises me and when I am blamed or despised. It is to have a blessed home in the Lord where I can go in and shut the door and kneel to my Father in secret and be at peace as in a deep sea of calmness when all around is trouble. It is the fruit of the Lord Jesus Christ’s redemptive work on Calvary’s cross, manifested in those of His own who are definitely subject to the Holy Spirit.” I have found that as I become more interested in that kind of relationship, I am more perfectly at ease with all of my circumstances. I find a greater peace in whatever happens. So much of what seems so important at the time fades into the backdrop of eternity and the promise of eternal life. Perhaps you are at a place in your life now that you are feeling uneasy; try letting go of the controls. It might amaze you how quickly you get “control.” “I’ll buy, you fly” works in relationship!

Poking a Hornet's Nest

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:1-4 ESV). I sometimes have so much to say in such a little space I don’t know where to begin. Over the last few days I have been involved in several families and their challenges in regard to parenting. I have come back to our reading often. There is an incredible wisdom of balance the apostle outlines for us. It is a very direct, uncomplicated statement of truth. Children should be obedient to their parents; and, parents should exercise gentle, kind discipline and instruction with their children. I know that’s easier said than done. Believe me I have made more than a few mistakes in this area. However, our mistakes don’t change the truth. Relational balance is the key. I have often said to parents and children alike, “The tighter the grip, the more the struggle; and, the more the struggle, the tighter the grip.” It’s just another way of encouraging families to stop competing with one another. No one needs to win in our relationship; rather, everyone needs to win. Sounds crazy, doesn’t it? Let’s see if I can illustrate the truth here. You have three children, all separated by several years. Correspondingly they are different sizes. You get ready to go someplace and one of them says, “I’ve got shotgun.” That was a common thing in the early days when my boys were growing up. The car was always not quite big enough for the oldest in the back and if one of the younger guys wanted the front it always resulted in an argument. You’ve been there. What do you do? How do you discipline, or teach in this situation. My solution was to remind them of the basic rules of engagement. The bigger guy always got the front where there was more room. When they became “bigger” they would get the front. I won’t detail the principles involved in this teaching, but it is the way of God. He often chooses for us things that seem unfair. Peter felt that way when Jesus told him his ultimate end would be crucifixion (cf. John 21:15-22). He asked Jesus, “What about John?” Jesus reminded him that wasn’t his concern. Sometimes we go about in our families as if we enjoy conflict. We “poke the hornet’s nest.” It is completely unproductive and unnecessary. Find a better balance in your family and you will find peace and harmony. Amazingly you will also find that it is easier for everyone to live respectfully toward one another. And one last thing: they don’t need to be just like us. We, and they, need to be just like Jesus. The next time you are tempted to be God, remember to take them to God. We are not a good substitute for Him. Children, obey your parents; and parents, don’t provoke your children. You’ll like that kind of life much more!

Never Forgotten

But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. (Isaiah 43:1-3 ESV). Have you ever felt as though everyone has let you down? Have you ever felt abandoned or forgotten or forsaken? The Apostle Paul must have felt that way when he was imprisoned at Jerusalem. Paul must have been feeling discouraged, because we read in Acts 23:11, "The following night the Lord stood by him and said, 'Be of good cheer, Paul.' " God reminded him that he was not alone. The great British preacher C. H. Spurgeon put it this way: If all else forsook him, Jesus was company enough; if all despised him, Jesus' smile was patronage enough; if the good cause seemed in danger, in the presence of His Master, victory was sure. The Lord who had stood for him at the cross, now stood by him in prison. . . . It was a dungeon, but the Lord was there; it was dark, but the glory of the Lord lit it up with heaven's own splendour. It comes down to the fact that we should rather be in a jail or in a storm or in a hardship with Jesus than anywhere else without Him. Of course being in that happy, blessed place with Jesus is best. However, we know life simply doesn’t work that way. God is always with us. He never forgets. We are not left alone. Look at our reading today again. God says, "When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. . . . For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior" (Isaiah 43:2–3).vHe is with us in the good times, and He is also with us in the bad times. And as someone wisely said, "He can compensate by His loving presence for every earthly loss." I have found that the real strength in the presence of God comes from more than a feeling. It’s been rightly said, “Doubt your doubts and believe your beliefs.” Rather than become over-worried about your doubts, look to what you do believe, and draw strength from God. You will make it, not because of anything within you, but because God is powerful. Forget any deficiency you sense within you, and remember instead the sufficiency of Christ. You are never forgotten!

Words of Life

I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed. For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. (Galatians 1:6-10 ESV). I remember exiting the airport in New York City on my way back from two weeks in the Ukraine where I had been training pastors. A man was standing on the sidewalk with a sign that said, "The wages of sin are death." He was correct. The wages of sin are death. That’s what the Scripture declares. However, that only part of the story. Those are the words of death, not the words of life. He was misrepresenting the gospel of God. So I walked up to him and said, "Excuse me. Can I ask you a question?" "WHAT?" I didn’t know that I would be yelled at for asking a question. Maybe that’s just the way of New York street preachers. I continued to press a bit. I said, "You know, on your sign it says 'the wages of sin are death.' That's true. That's what the Bible says. But do you know what the rest of that verse says?" "WHAT?" Again with the yelling… I was a taken aback somewhat. I think I was being as calm and soft spoken as is possible for me. Maybe I wasn’t. I plowed on. The rest of the verse says, 'But the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.' Why don't you put that on the back of your sign so you can say, 'The wages of sin are death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord'?" I was really surprised by his retort. He told me I was going to hell. Well, I didn’t know that; in fact, I am quite sure that is not the case. I’m going to heaven. Since Jesus is my Savior, I have the absolute promise of God that I will go to heaven. It was wrong for him to present God in that inaccurate way. The whole gospel is that we were sinners separated from God, with no hope of ever being right with Him. But God loved us so much that He sent His Son to die in our place and atone for our sins and absorb the wrath of God. And He rose again from the dead. When we put our faith in Him, we pass from death to life and know that when we die, we will go to heaven. But if we don't believe in Jesus, we will face and will spend eternity separated from Him in hell. People need the whole gospel. They need words of life just as much as the words of death. Preach the whole gospel. Then people will be drawn by the Holy Spirit to life!

A Solid Foundation

According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw—each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. (1 Corinthians 3:10-15 ESV). Kyle is dealing with architects and construction folks getting all the final permits and specs on the house Mary and I will be moving to in January. In Texas the construction is a bit different than in Tennessee. In Texas a home is typically built on concrete poured directly on the ground. We call that “the slab.” In Tennessee a home is built on piers and beams built to support the home. It is essential that both types of construction have a solid support for the foundation. The house simply cannot endure much movement from the soil before it begins to weaken and crack. We’ve all seen people construct sandcastles at the beach. Some are very elaborate works of art. They take hours and hours to build. I have admired their work. But I also know those impressive structures wouldn't last very long. It was only a matter of time until either a tide came in and swept them away or the wind and water from the surf eroded them to an unrecognizable state. Some folks make the mistake of building their lives and families on sand, like those momentary sandcastles. They build it on fleeting emotions or some other thing. But a life must be built on something stronger that will sustain it. Jesus concluded the Sermon on the Mount with an illustration of what we should build our lives on: Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. (Matthew 7:24-25 ESV). Notice that Jesus did not say if a storm comes but when a storm comes. Life is full of surprises. These twists in our journey will not destroy our building if we have started with a solid foundation. Build on Jesus. Nothing else will do!

I'm Tired

Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:6-10 ESV). I wish that I could truthfully say that I never get tired in doing the things I do to minister the gospel to others; however, that’s just not true. I get tired, cranky, and impatient. It is a part of the natural course of aging and mental exertion. Now, while I get tired in the Lord's work, I never get tired of the Lord's work. That’s an important difference. It gives us the key to continuing. When you are tired, take a break, rest and recharge. I’m not very good at doing that. A dear friend, John Warlick, has offered his cabin on Boone, NC, for just such recharging. I am ashamed I have not taken him up on his generosity. I’ve been “too busy.” That is merely the result of subtle pride and arrogance. Even Jesus took time off periodically. He withdrew from the many needs surrounding him and recharged. It is a good example for us to follow. Our reading today declares there are sacrifices we make as followers of Jesus. There are things we lose. There are persecutions we face. There are hardships we endure. Jesus said, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (Matthew 5:10–12). Notice the word "blessed" is used twice to emphasize the generous blessing of God on the persecuted. Another way to translate it would be "double-blessed are the persecuted" or "happy, happy are the persecuted." We are to be faithful in what we do. That’s what Paul is saying. Don’t grow weary of doing good. Don't be weary in reading your Bible and seeking to live by what it teaches. Don't be weary in praying for your family, friends, and community. Don't be weary in sharing your faith with others. Don't be weary in serving the Lord with the gifts that God has given you. Don't be weary in that. There is a promise that goes with this. Paul says, “in due season, you will reap if you don't give up.” If you’re tired, be encouraged. So was the Lord. Now, do as he did. Recharge. Get a little time and renew your store of energy. Above all, don’t quit. He will bring the harvest!

Don't Choke

Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved. I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:1-7 ESV). As the apostle begins to close this letter to the church of Philippi he has some interesting “bullet points.” He tells two of the women of the church to stop fighting with one another. He encourages all the church to rejoice. And, then, he tells them to stop worrying. I’ve always found it interesting that the word "worry" has its origins in a word that means "to choke." But, that is exactly what worry does. It chokes us. It holds us back. Worry doesn't help at all. It actually makes things worse. Worry adds to our problems. Ephesians 6:18 tells us to "pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere." Notice the use of "all" and "every": All times . . . every occasion . . . for all believers everywhere. When we pile up these words, we get the idea that God is telling us to do this all the time about all things that concern us. Also, a literal translation of the word "pray" in this verse means "be sleepless to this end." In other words, keep praying. I know. That is a lot easier to preach than it is to practice. I do know that, intimately. Yet, it does not change the truth. Our prayers for ourselves, our families, our friends, our communities, and our world all answer the need to stop choking. I’ve seen it so many times in my life and the lives of others. When I pray, really pray, my worries seem to melt away. I’m not talking about the kind of compulsory prayers that we say at mealtime or bedtime; I mean the kind of conversation that ultimately deepens our understanding of our relationship with our heavenly Father. Just the other day I was caught in some traffic because of the construction on the Interstate. I had things to do and places to be. I didn’t have time to sit stopped on the road as if I had suddenly turned into a parking lot. Well, I started a CD of some gospel music that I had purchased some time ago in Gatlinburg. “The Lighthouse” was playing. You may not be familiar with that song. Google it and listen to it. You won’t be disappointed! Immediately I was taken away from the traffic to the wonderful work of Christ. Now that will keep you from choking!

Why Do You Get Up in the Morning?

Yes, and I will rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. (Philippians 1:18-23 ESV). Now that we have moved to an apartment we are forced to walk our dog on a leash each time he needs to go outside. He has done well on a leash considering that he had more than a half acre to roam at our house. I will say that it keeps him out of trouble when he’s on a leash. However, the real issue is that when he’s ready to get up and go out in the morning, I may not be! And, trust me when I say that there is no denying him outside no matter what time it is! There’s something very disconcerting about a wet dog lick on your face at 6 am in the morning. Not long ago I saw a photo within an advertisement of a man shaving. It asked the question "Is it an alarm or a calling that gets you out of bed in the morning?" Hmmmm… that really began my wheels turning. It’s a good question. It seeks the answer of our purpose in living. It forces us to examine our passion about life. I’ve got to answer the question of why I get up in the morning. Is it just to let the dog out, or is there something far greater at work? The answer to all those questions is relatively easy. All of us have something or someone we live for. We possess some passion that drives us on, giving our lives purpose; we have some sense of meaning raising it above the level of mere existence. We don't want our lives on this earth to be some temporary aberration in the greater scheme of creation. We want to count for something. The Apostle Paul was clear that his passion was Jesus. Our reading today is his clear statement of his longing to be with Jesus in heaven and his commitment to make every moment of life on earth count for the good of others and his growth. Remember that this is the same man who was known throughout the Roman world as a man committed to killing Christians. Of course that was before his experience in meeting Christ on the Damascus road and having his life forever changed. Now he would serve Jesus with as much passion as he once served other interests. Can you imagine what a different world we'd live in if more Christians served the Lord with the same level of commitment that they use to serve others with? There are two questions every believer should ask. Saul asked two questions on the day of his conversion. "Who are you, Lord?" and "What will you have me to do?" Why DID you get up this morning?

Shattered

On the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, a great crowd met him. And behold, a man from the crowd cried out, “Teacher, I beg you to look at my son, for he is my only child. And behold, a spirit seizes him, and he suddenly cries out. It convulses him so that he foams at the mouth, and shatters him, and will hardly leave him. And I begged your disciples to cast it out, but they could not.” Jesus answered, “O faithless and twisted generation, how long am I to be with you and bear with you? Bring your son here.” While he was coming, the demon threw him to the ground and convulsed him. But Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit and healed the boy, and gave him back to his father. And all were astonished at the majesty of God. (Luke 9:37-43 ESV). Tucked away in the midst of this account of Jesus healing a young boy is a great word. The word “shatters” is actually a Greek word that means “bruises.” It is the same word used in Isaiah when the prophet tells us that Jesus was bruised for our iniquities (cf. Isaiah 53:5). It is a word that means much more than a “bump.” Here’s what Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary says about this word in our English language: (v. t.) To injure, as by a blow or collision, without laceration; to contuse; as, to bruise one's finger with a hammer; to bruise the bark of a tree with a stone; to bruise an apple by letting it fall. (v. t.) To break; as in a mortar; to bray, as minerals, roots, etc.; to crush. (v. i.) To fight with the fists; to box. (n.) An injury to the flesh of animals, or to plants, fruit, etc., with a blunt or heavy instrument, or by collision with some other body; a contusion; as, a bruise on the head; bruises on fruit. People typically get bruises when they bump into something or when something bumps into them. I have found that some of these bumps can be violent. I think this is the case of the boy in our reading. He was violently attacked and “shattered.” Perhaps you have experienced that kind of hurt in your life. The answer then, and now, is the majesty of God in the work of Jesus. I never have much trouble with the concept of that in my experiences. Rather, it’s the application of that in my life. Usually it starts as a small bump. I ignore those. After all, I’m a tough guy and my threshold of pain is very high. Then that little bruise gets bumped again. It gets worse and worse until I can no longer tolerate the pain. That’s usually when I cry out for help. Can I tell you how strange that is? God does not want me to wait at all. His strength and power is available at the first bump. He heals our iniquities… he soothes our bruises. Turn to him now. It will be much better than waiting!

Been There, Done That

Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. Whoever tends a fig tree will eat its fruit, and he who guards his master will be honored. As in water face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects the man. Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied, and never satisfied are the eyes of man. (Proverbs 27:17-20 ESV). The “Official Star Trek Convention” was held in Las Vegas last week. In one of the convention auctions where Star Trek memorabilia was auctioned, there was one very interesting item that was bought by an avid fan. It was a half-filled glass of water that had been sipped by a cast member who had a virus. The item sold for $40. The person who bought it immediately drank it, because they wanted to get the same virus the cast member from Star Trek had. "Bizarre" is one word that comes to mind after a story like that. But is it really any more bizarre when you start thinking about the things that supposedly normal people dedicate their entire lives to? They will dedicate their lives to acquiring possessions. They will dedicate their lives to sexual conquest. They will dedicate their lives to getting the finest education the world can offer. But what they will find out eventually is that if in their pursuit of these things, they forget about God, it will result in emptiness. Take it from the expert, Solomon, who likely wrote the Book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon was the one person who could say, "Been there, done that, bought the T-shirt." He knew about these things firsthand. He went on a quest, deciding he was going to try everything this world had to offer. But he wisely concluded that just as death and destruction are never satisfied, so human desire is never satisfied. When God created us, He wired us this way. The Bible says that He has placed eternity in our hearts (cf. Ecclesiastes 3:11), which simply means that in the heart of every man and woman, there is a sense that there is something more out there. It is almost as though we were born with a God-shaped hole inside. Tragically we try to fill it with so many things that simply won’t fit or fill that void. Perhaps this is why Solomon wrote the proverbs of our reading today. He knew the value of “iron sharpening iron.” Perhaps you do not have someone who challenges you to stretch your mind and spirit, to grow in your knowledge and understanding of God and his will and purpose for your life. If that is the case, please be encouraged to find someone who you may mutually hone your mind. It is the way of true discipleship. It is often slow and tedious work, but there really aren’t any short-cuts to “catching the virus.” There is so much more God has for us. He never wants us to experience one day where we may say, “been there, done that.”

Miles to Go

Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:11-16 ESV). I am far enough removed from moving out of our house into the apartment that most of the newness has become common. I have gotten used to the new placement of light switches and patterns of things in the cabinets and such. Even the sore muscles from the actual moving have subsided. At the time we were moving I thought I’d never finish; it seemed we had miles to go every time I surveyed what had yet to be done. Strangely, one step at a time worked! Life is like that. The consistent life of persistent faith just gets you there. The key is taking care not to compromise. If you find a person who has fallen into gross sin, you are likely to find in every situation that you can think of, it began with compromise. Very rarely do people fall away from God overnight. Sometimes it appears they do, but in reality, it doesn't happen that way. For instance, you may have seen someone at church last week, only to discover the next week they have gotten into some immoral lifestyle or are doing something they shouldn't be doing. You think, “I don't get it. I just saw them in church last week. They were doing fine.” I would suggest that compromise has been taking place over a long period of time in that person's life, and he or she finally just caved in. It is like a massive tree that may have stood for 400 years, only to come crashing to the ground one day. No one could understand why a tree of that size would crash to the ground. After all, it had weathered countless storms and had never fallen. But one day, without warning, it just crashed. If you were able to examine the tree, you might find it had been slowly killed by beetles. Little insects might have, over a prolonged period of time, chewed their way through its mighty fibers until it came crashing down. That is how compromise works. The devil may be wicked, but he is not an idiot. He knows how to deceive us quietly and subtly. He doesn't tell you what he is up to in the beginning. Instead, he comes to you with a little enticement. He sounds so convincing and truthful. It all makes such good sense when you think about it. After all, what could be bad about “that”? Like boiling a frog slowly, you are gone before you know the water was even hot. Don’t settle for anything less that the truth of God working in your life. Take your time with the study of the Scripture. Let it permeate your life in a way that you will be protected from the devil’s deceit. We do have miles to go, walk them one step at a time.

I'm the Problem

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. (Romans 8:1-7 ESV). Just the other day I received a call from a distraught parent. I had seen his son once. We were scheduled to meet again for more counseling, but in the interim his son had left him a cryptic message that sounded ominous. He wouldn’t answer any of the calls the father had made in an effort to talk to him. After calling me, I immediately called the young man. Talking to him I found him to be in a rough spot. He was not suicidal, but despondent and hopeless. At one point in the conversation he said, “I am the problem. I have been the problem for thirty years. No one can fix me!” Well, I wish that I could have said he was wrong and I could fix him, but that’s not the truth. We did talk extensively about his hurts and disappointments. I told him I could help him shoulder that load a bit. In the end he simply said, “You’re not enough.” My reply was to affirm his statement. I’m not even close to enough. In fact, there have been days when I was right where he was; and, there will be days in the future where I will be there again. The answer is not within any of us naturally. The only answer is in the indwelling of Christ within us. Paul explains it simply: For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. I don’t want to have any more “Job experiences.” However, if I do, the same grace that sustained me then will once again strengthen and hold me against the onslaught of the enemy of life. That’s really what the cross was all about. So often I hear preachers who talk about the atoning work of Christ as if it were only the paying of our debt. It is so much more than that. The cross is the singular sacrifice that God made on our behalf that gives us unalterably a life that can never be rescinded or lost. Jesus substituted himself for us that we may never fear anything in this world. I am the problem; but Jesus fixed it! I wonder if that’s the solution you have arrived at in your life. If so, pray for others. There are countless millions who have yet to discover the grace of God in Christ Jesus. They are still slaves of their own sin and death. Pray they might be set free indeed!

Tiny House Builders

It occurs to me that my complaints to my wife about not having enough room in our apartment to store my hunting gear better are falling on deaf ears! In fact, she seems to have taken to answering me by tuning into a new reality show on HGTV, Tiny House Builders. The main character, Derek Diedricksen, doesn't just make Tiny Houses, he “creates micro masterpieces out of salvaged materials.” That’s what the official trailer says about the show. The web site goes on to say, “Located in some of the world's most beautiful and at times treacherous locations, he prides himself on building the tiniest of structures that make the most of their surroundings. Viewers will follow along as this master miniature craftsman constructs paradise living in just a few hundred square feet.” All I can say is that I had been in deer stands bigger than some of these “homes.” I must admit that this show is intriguing. I am quite amazed how the builders find ways to maximize such a small amount of space; however, I still don’t want to live in 150 square feet! And, as soon as I think that thought, I reminisce about dorm living and sharing a 144 square feet with a stranger. We weren’t at all upset about that. Even when the Texas heat in College Station was at its zenith, we just opened the window and propped a fan in it for circulation. Somehow we made it just fine. Then I began to think about what my ultimate home would be like. And, while it is dangerous to anthropomorphize (big word meant to impress that means “put into human terms”) heaven, let me draw your attention to what John saw at the end of time event of the coming of the “New Jerusalem” to the earth: And the one who spoke with me had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city and its gates and walls. The city lies foursquare, its length the same as its width. And he measured the city with his rod, 12,000 stadia. Its length and width and height are equal. He also measured its wall, 144 cubits by human measurement, which is also an angel's measurement. The wall was built of jasper, while the city was pure gold, like clear glass. The foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with every kind of jewel. The first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each of the gates made of a single pearl, and the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass. (Revelation 21:15-21 ESV). I don’t know if this is meant to be a literal description of the new city of God and His people or not; however, I do know it overwhelms John with its beauty and size. It will be more than any of us can imagine; and, it will be big enough for everyone God has extended his grace. It won’t be a “tiny house”! Now that’s encouraging… rejoice!

Love Ya!

He found him in a desert land, and in the howling waste of the wilderness; he encircled him, he cared for him, he kept him as the apple of his eye. Like an eagle that stirs up its nest, that flutters over its young, spreading out its wings, catching them, bearing them on its pinions, the LORD alone guided him, no foreign god was with him. He made him ride on the high places of the land, and he ate the produce of the field, and he suckled him with honey out of the rock, and oil out of the flinty rock. Curds from the herd, and milk from the flock, with fat of lambs, rams of Bashan and goats, with the very finest of the wheat— and you drank foaming wine made from the blood of the grape. (Deuteronomy 32:10-14 ESV). Our reading today is one of the wonderful Messianic passages of the Old Testament. It speaks of the incredible love God has for His Son and the gift of grace in His death. There is never a time when I don’t tell or show my children or grandchildren that I love them. My emails or texts often end with “love ya!” I want them to know that they are important to me. I want them to understand that they are the apple of my eye. I want them to feel that they can find protection in me; that I will always have their best interest at heart; and that I am one person that will always be on their team. Let me tell you that I can't be that person to my boys, unless God is that "person" to me. When I see God as my provider and my source for all my needs, then I can provide that comfort to the ones I love. When I recognize that I am the apple of my Father's eye, then I can give my children the position in my heart that they deserve. It saddens me to see so many children who are growing up in homes today where there is either no love, or absent and silent love. A generation is losing the security of a close family life, because the world is literally sucking us into its snare. The television is becoming our babysitter, and the schools have assumed the role of chief educator. Gone is the day when the family shaped our society. We need to show them they are the apple of our eye. We need to shelter them in the shadow of our wings. We need to take back our family for God! We can only do that when we, ourselves, are in a right relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Do you recognize your position in God's eye? If you are a parent, hopefully you understand loving your children. Do you realize God loves you so much more than that? Perhaps in the next few days I will be able to dig a little deeper with you in this area. Suffice it to say at this time that God has been so gracious to allow me the opportunity to communicate with all of my children and grandchildren their deep-seated position in my heart. I can only continue to pray that it will show itself in daily interaction and example with them. Make that your prayer too!

Confounding the Wise

For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:26-31 ESV). Today Mary and I will go to the closing on our home. We have already moved out. In fact, as soon as I took the last of our “stuff” out of the garage and drove down the driveway I looked through the rearview mirror for the last time as the “owner.” It was a funny feeling. I can’t say it was bad. It was strange. On the one hand I really had thought that this was the final house we would live in. That seemed to be logical. It is amusing how God changes the logical to confound the pride and arrogance in me. I must confess that though it was not intentional, just the fact that I counted on that house being our last move, was full of pride and arrogance. I am not saying that it was a sin to be happy living there. It was a great blessing. God gave us a wonderful home to use for His glory in many ways. He gave us comfort and beauty to surround us. The view from that hill was wonderful at any season. The sunsets and sunrises were incredible from there. But, it was never home. That won’t come until later. And, it won’t be the next structure we move to. It will be that heavenly home not made by human hands, but by the very hand of God. Once again God has reminded me that it is the weak, the foolish, the humble and simple people that he delights to use. This journey of ours is turning out to be pretty exciting so far. I don’t quite know how to manage it. And, that may the message God has for me now most of all. God’s will and purpose needs no management. His grace has been and continues to be sufficient for all circumstances. Listen to the apostle from our reading today: God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. All the things that “are” come to nothing in the incredible creative act of God in our lives. The wonder of His grace shines brightly in this darkness surrounding our world. When I hear the nightly reports of how bad things are in our world I need to be reminded they are nothing in His hands. He will make the worst of circumstances into good for His children. When I measure the changes in my life and drift into regret I need to refocus on the amazing work of the gospel on my behalf. So, sitting in our little apartment writing these thoughts causes me to rejoice! This journey is starting to really get interesting! I hope you are trusting Him with your path today.

Do You Want to Change?

Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Aramaic called Bethesda, which has five roofed colonnades. In these lay a multitude of invalids—blind, lame, and paralyzed. One man was there who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” (John 5:2-6 ESV). Have you ever wished your life could change? Perhaps you have made choices you regret. In our reading today we find a man who had been waiting for 38 years to be healed. He was unable to move. Perhaps he had been paralyzed by an accident. We just don't know. Sometimes, we fall ill because of our own personal choices. The man who fails to eat healthy foods and exercise regularly reaches mid-life and has heart problems. At least a part of his illness is caused by the early life choices he has made. There are many other examples we could cite. Suffice it to say that there can be a connection between what we do and what happens to us. I'm not saying that every person who has problems in life came into those circumstances because of a bad choice; in fact, sometimes they are the victims of someone else's poor choice. However, we do need to accept the fact that when we make our choices, there will be consequences. There are other times when God brings the circumstance into our lives purposefully. It will be used to teach us something or bring him glory as he works it for our good. The Apostle Paul experienced his "thorn in the flesh," it wasn't connected to any particular sin. Yet God did not remove it from him though he asked for healing three times. God's answer was, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness" (cf. 2 Corinthians 12:9). Out of a crowd of sick and suffering people waiting for an angel to trouble the pool of water, Jesus selected one man. He didn't preach to everyone. He didn't heal everyone. He went to only one individual and asked a poignant and, in some ways, unexpected question: "Do you want to get well?" It was an important question, because not everyone wants to be made well. Not everyone wants his or her life to change. As long as we think we can work things out on our own, as long we think we will figure life out someday, we'll never be able to trust Him with change. Perhaps that is the most important question for you to answer today. Do you want to change? It absolutely can happen in the power and purpose of Christ. It may not be what you ask for however. The change may be to simply strengthen you in the midst of your present situation. You “incurable” illness may be best left just like that. The real cure is in our spirit and mind. That he will change every time. Then we will possess peace which is the greatest of strengths. Do you want to change? Then ask!

First Steps

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. (Ephesians 4:1-7 ESV). First steps are incredible to witness. Each of my sons walked at a different age, though all of them once they started were everywhere! I saw Faith and Logan begin to take their first steps. Though fraternal twins, they also walked at a different age. Their development caught up soon, but they started at separate times to really walk with confidence. Now, David and Becca are keeping us informed with video and stills of Maggie’s progress. She is very close to launching out and walking at 8 months! It is definitely an exciting time! As is true with everyone when they begin to walk, falling is a normal part of learning. Sometimes you fall so often on the same place that the bruises never really heal. They almost appear to be a permanent addition to our physical appearance. Walking spiritually can be like that, especially when you take your first steps as a new believer. You stumble and fall. You get up again. You stumble and fall. It is all part of growing spiritually. In our reading today, we are encouraged to walk forward spiritually. Walking speaks of effort, of having direction with a destination in mind. And the first thing we are told is "to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called." Even though I have just finished preaching through the Ephesian letter, I am drawn back to various passages often. This is one of those times. The word "worthy" used in this passage could be translated, "balance the scales." This means that what is on one side of the scale should be equal in weight to what is on the other side. This word could be applied to anything that was expected to correspond to something else. Paul was saying there needs to be a balance between our belief and our practice. In other words, our doctrine and belief should affect us in the way we live. We need the balance of having both these areas working together in our lives. That is what it means to walk worthy of the calling into which we were called. While our first steps might be shaky and unsure, we gain strength by walking. Our “balance” comes more and more easily. AS you take steps in your Christian life, expect some shaky moments; and, expect to gain strength through the doing of the work.

Treasure in Clay Jars

But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. For we who live are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. (2 Corinthians 4:7-11 ESV). Yesterday we talked about the painful process of “winnowing,” being sifted like wheat. Those experiences of life are very real. Anyone who would scoff at the pain and difficulty of them simply hasn’t been there. The list of such experiences is long and sad. I minister to many of these people daily as they walk through my doors, sit at the table, and recount their story of hurt or calamity. Some would say that they made choices in life that brought the pain of consequence to bear in their lives. In some cases they would be correct. However, I have found that the reason for the pain is secondary; and, it does not ease the pain. The Apostle Paul writes to the Corinthians an incredible confession in our reading today. He talks about affliction in every way, perplexity in life, persecution from many sources, being driven to his knees, and bearing the cruel death of the executioner; yet, he says none of these things are powerful enough to rob us of our life. In fact, they only reveal the real treasure within us. That treasure is “the surpassing power of God.” Paul is not calling all Christians to suffer the same things. Nor is he saying that we should think of suffering as the only means to getting revelation from God. Nor is he saying we should those who suffer as possessing a higher order of spirituality than others. In the providence of God some believers live significantly more peaceful and healthier lives than others. So those who are not suffering should not seek to do so. They should seek to be faithful to God, banking their hope on His promises so that meeting the needs of others becomes more important than securing their own future. The first question and answer from the Heidelberg Catechism is as follows: What is your only comfort in life and death? Here’s the answer of the confessional: That I with body and soul, both in life and death, am not my own, but belong unto my faithful Savior Jesus Christ; who, with his precious blood, has fully satisfied for all my sins, and delivered me from all the power of the devil; and so preserves me that without the will of my heavenly Father, not a hair can fall from my head; yea, that all things must be subservient to my salvation, and therefore, by his Holy Spirit, He also assures me of eternal life, and makes me sincerely willing and ready, henceforth, to live unto him. To follow Jesus Christ in this life does not confer on us the ability to escape suffering. It gives us the power to rise above it in victory! That’s the treasure. We are rich!

Once in a Blue Moon

Last Friday, July 31st, we had what astronomers call a “blue moon.” I did have a clear night to see the moon and it wasn’t blue. The reason is that the name given to it has little or nothing to do with the color it appears. In fact, most blue moons appear pale gray and white, just like the moon you've seen on any other night. It has more to do with the rarity of the occurrence itself. It just doesn’t happen very often that you will have two full moons in one month. The last time it happened was in August of 2012; and, the next one will be January of 2018. It is the phrase that draws more attention than the actual occurrence. “Once in a blue moon” has come to be an idiom indicating a rarity. That fact brought me to following teaching from Jesus: And Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:23-26 ESV). The context of this reading is after Jesus was approached by a young rich man asking him how he might “inherit” eternal life. Jesus told him to get rid of everything and “take up his cross” to follow Him. That was far too great a sacrifice for the young man and he merely walked away. Then Jesus answers the disciples question about how eternal life comes to a person. Simply, put it is impossible except for the grace of God. It is not “once in a blue moon” that someone might be able to work their way into heaven; it is never. Only as God gives this great gift of grace can a man enter heaven. Only then can we have eternal life. Thinking of the fullness and duration of this wonderful life, W. B. Hinson, a great preacher of a past generation, spoke from his own experience just before he died. He said, “I remember a year ago when a doctor told me, ‘You have an illness from which you won’t recover.’ I walked out to where I live 5 miles from Portland, Oregon, and I looked across at that mountain that I love. I looked at the river in which I rejoice, and I looked at the stately trees that are always God’s own poetry to my soul. Then in the evening I looked up into the great sky where God was lighting His lamps, and I said, ‘ I may not see you many more times, but Mountain, I shall be alive when you are gone; and River, I shall be alive when you cease running toward the sea; and Stars, I shall be alive when you have fallen from your sockets in the great downpulling of the material universe!’” How about you? Do you have that kind of life? You can today!

Saints, Wherever You Are

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. (Ephesians 4:1-7 ESV). There’s a little story that talks about a small boy who had been told of an old Christian hermit. Five year old Brian was impressed by the story of Simeon the Stylite, a Syrian monk who lived in the 5th century. This man was admired as a saint because he lived for more than 35 years on a platform atop a high pillar. Determined to follow Simeon’s example, Brian put the kitchen stool on the table and started his perilous climb. When his mother heard some strange sounds in the kitchen, she came in, and shouted, “Brian! Get down before you break your neck!” As the youngster obeyed, he muttered, “You can’t even become a saint in your own house.” The Apostle Paul writes to the Ephesians encouraging them to walk “in a manner worthy of the calling.” He wants us to be saints. Saint originates from the Greek word meaning "holy" or "set apart." The New Testament uses the word saint or saints sixty-seven times. In every instance, the reference is to all believers. Never is the word used of a special group of believers who serve God better than others. Scripture is clear that all Christians are saints. We are all to walk worth of that calling. The overwhelming impact of being a saint is our identification with one another. So much of the time we are divided along various lines of culture, belief, or doctrine. That is not a concept found in the Scripture. From John’s vision of the end of time, here are the saints he saw: After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” (Revelation 7:9-10 ESV). Perhaps it is time for the people of God to recognize our relationship to one another is much closer than we have either imagined or practiced. Of course, sound doctrine is important; however, I find it better to find the things I can agree with others about before I begin to debate the differences. After all, if you are a child of God, we are brothers and sisters in that faith! Walk worthy, dear saint!

Wistful

Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. (Philippians 3:12-15 ESV). Tomorrow the movers will come to begin the process of packing, separating, and moving. I am “wistful.” I like that word. The Oxford Dictionary defines this word as “having or showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing.” There are some good synonyms listed as well: nostalgic, yearning, longing, plaintive, regretful, or rueful. I think the Apostle Paul was feeling this way as he wrote to the believers in Philippi the words of our reading this morning. He knew what he was doing was exactly what the Lord had directed him to do; but, he had other feelings as well. I certainly cannot compare my situation to the Apostle Paul. But the principle remains the same. Whenever any of us begin to look at the things of our present, anticipating the future, it is so easy to become microscopic. For the next six months we will be living with some of things in storage and other things in a small apartment. It is not an experience completely foreign to us. After seminary Mary and I lived in Nacogdoches, Texas, for a few months as we trained for our permanent position in Tyler, Texas. Those were “exciting” days! Everything seemed so temporary. Mary was pregnant with Kyle and her doctor was temporary. I was in training, so I was temporary. Most of our belongings were in storage, so we lived in a temporary setting with temporary stuff. But, it was fun. We made friends that lasted. We did ministry that carried on for years to come. We learned the principles of life that would last to this day. We were able to “press on.” Again we are being directed to press on. I will need to remind myself tomorrow and the next day when we actually drive away that what we leave behind is not the house or the stuff. That is only temporary and fleetingly so. Fortunately we will still live in the area for six more months, so we have time to relish the friendships we have made, minister to those who have come into our path, and make new relationships yet unknown to us. In all of this I can be absolutely certain that even when we get to Texas that will not be our final move. The prize of the high calling of Christ, eternal life in all of its glory awaits! And, there is no need to pack any boxes for that move. They have already been packed and sent ahead. Jesus has prepared a place just for us in glory. His promise is to come and get us when it is finished. Now that’s a move that will be worth it all! Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you (v. 15).

A Cross without Jesus

And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. (Colossians 2:13-15 ESV). A story was reported about a couple visiting a jewelry store. As the jeweler showed them various cross necklaces, the woman commented, "I like these, but do you have any without this little man on them?" Easy to laugh at, isn’t it? However, many people today want a cross without Jesus. They want a cross without any offense. They want one that will look cool with their outfits. But if we could travel back in time and see the cross in its original context, we would realize that it was a bloody and vile symbol. It would have been the worst picture imaginable to see someone hanging on a cross. The Romans chose crucifixion because it was meant to be a slow, torturous way to die. It was designed not only to kill someone, but to utterly humiliate them as they died. Crucifixions outside Roman cities served as warnings to anyone who would dare oppose the rule of Rome. If there was any other way, do you think that God would have allowed His Son to suffer like this? If there had been any other way we could have been forgiven, then God surely would have found it. If living a good moral life would get us to heaven, then Jesus never would have died for us. But He did, because there was and is no other way. He had to pay the price for our sin. At the cross, Jesus purchased the salvation of the world. It was May 21, 1946. The place was Los Alamos. A young and daring scientist was carrying out a necessary experiment in preparation for the atomic test to be conducted in the waters of the South Pacific Bikini. He had successfully performed such an experiment many times before. In his effort to determine the amount of U-235 necessary for a chain reaction, he would push two hemispheres of uranium together. Then, just as the mass became critical, he would push them apart with his screwdriver, thus instantly stopping the chain reaction. But that day, just as the material became critical, the screwdriver slipped! The hemispheres of uranium came too close together. Instantly the room was filled with a dazzling bluish haze. Young Louis Slotin, instead of ducking and thereby possibly saving himself, tore the two hemispheres apart with his hands and thus interrupted the chain reaction. By this instant, self-forgetful daring, he saved the lives of the seven other persons in the room. As he waited for the car that was to take him to the hospital, he said quietly to his companion, “You’ll come through all right. But I haven’t the faintest chance myself.” Nine days later he died in agony. Nineteen centuries ago the Son of the living God walked directly into sin’s most concentrated radiation, allowed Himself to be touched by its curse, and let it take His life, but by that act He broke the chain reaction. He broke the power of sin. This is the apostle’s message in our reading today. If you were ever tempted to doubt God's love for you, even for a moment, then take a long, hard look at the cross. Nails did not hold Jesus to that cross. His love did.

Another Birthday

O LORD, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am! Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths, and my lifetime is as nothing before you. Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath! (Psalm 39:4-5 ESV). Another birthday has overtaken me! Who would’ve thought? I am truly a part of the generation known as the Baby Boomers. I have read the reports. They tell us as age is catching up with the baby boomers, those of us born between 1946 and 1964, we find it very difficult to admit it. Well, that does not apply to me. I really never expected to get this age. I’m not trying to be humorous or even humble. The doctors told me over twenty years ago that I wouldn’t live beyond 65. The odds were not in my favor. Even the Scripture reminds us that our days are but a “few handbreadths.” That’s not much, you know. Funny how the length of my age is not as important to me as the quality of each of them singularly. A survey of more than 1,200 boomers finds that most (76%) are convinced that they look younger than their actual age. Most (73%) also believe that people who were 50 a generation ago looked a lot older than do today’s 50-year-olds. The Louis Harris Poll, financed by Ortho Pharmaceutical Corp., maker of Renova skin cream, also found:  Concerns. As boomers get older, 66% worry about gaining weight, 30% worry about losing hair, 28% worry about getting facial wrinkles and 24% worry about getting gray hair.  Signs of Age. When judging people’s age, most boomers (58%) are influenced by facial wrinkles or brown spots. Lesser numbers are influenced by gray hair (46%), excess weight (37%) and hair loss (34%).  Gender. More than a third (37%) of boomers think men age more gracefully than women; 22% say women age more gracefully. Most (77%) think women worry more than men about an aging facial appearance.  Good wrinkles. Most boomers (56) think facial wrinkles can be assets for a man “because they indicate experience and maturity.” But only 44% believe that wrinkles can be assets for a woman. The typical boomer, the survey finds, thinks middle age begins at 41. Older boomers have a much different view of middle age than do younger boomers. “If you could stay one age forever, what age would it be?” the survey asks. Boomers in their early 30s tend to wish they could have stayed in their 20s. The favorite age cited by boomers from 45 to 50 is “45 or older.” Well, again let me say, I’m glad I’ve got today. I might not have tomorrow on this side of the dirt; but, that will be fine too. Listen to the Apostle Paul: For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. (Philippians 1:21-23 ESV). Seems like I’ve already got my bonus! It is a Happy Birthday …here or there! Celebrate life in Christ!

A Good Cleaning

And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold, saying to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a den of robbers.” And he was teaching daily in the temple. The chief priests and the scribes and the principal men of the people were seeking to destroy him, but they did not find anything they could do, for all the people were hanging on his words. (Luke 19:45-48 ESV). Today is the second day of Garage Sale. This means we are doing some significant cleaning! Remember, I’m more of the “hit it with a lick and a promise” kind of guy. Mary deep cleans. Obviously, her approach is the better one. In our reading today, we find the story of Jesus' cleaning the house of God as He went into the temple and drove out the moneychangers. They were taking advantage of people and keeping them from God, and this angered Jesus. This is the second time in Scripture where Jesus cleansed the temple. In the Gospel of John, we read that He used a whip to drive out the moneychangers. They obviously hadn’t taken His message to heart and it needed cleaning again! I believe there is a parallel to our own lives. When we come to Christ initially, we ask for His forgiveness, and He pardons us of all our iniquities. In fact, we are told, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:17). What a wonderful thing it is to realize that God has forgiven us of all our sin. But as a little time passes, sometimes some of those old sins can find their way back into our lives. And that so-called "little" sin begins to grow and becomes a problem. On a road not far from my home are some trees that are slowly being destroyed by huge growths of kudzu. The vines wind themselves around the trunk. At this point it is impossible to untwist these runners because they are so firmly embedded into the trees. They are literally strangling the life out of those helpless giants. But there was a day when the kudzu was a small plant just seeking a little support in climbing. Had the trees resisted these tiny tendrils, they would not be in the state they are today. Habits are like that. Those that are destructive can be rooted out much easier before they have the chance to establish themselves. Does your temple need cleansing? Are there some things in your life that shouldn't be there right now? Are there some vices, some bad habits that have found their way back into your life? If so, deal with them now. Get your deep cleaning done. Maybe you ought to get rid of some stuff too! Have a garage sale of the soul.