That You May Know - Pt 15

He went on from there and entered their synagogue. And a man was there with a withered hand. And they asked him, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?”— so that they might accuse him. He said to them, “Which one of you who has a sheep, if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not take hold of it and lift it out? Of how much more value is a man than a sheep! So it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” Then he said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And the man stretched it out, and it was restored, healthy like the other. But the Pharisees went out and conspired against him, how to destroy him. (Matthew 12:10-13 ESV).

Jesus has just healed the man at the pool of Bethesda on the Sabbath. Now as He and his disciples pass through a field, they pick some grain on the Sabbath. Picking the grain was not only allowed, it was encouraged as the harvesters left some for travelers as a benevolent gesture of hospitality and compassion. However, this did not go well with the Pharisees. The reason was it was considered a serious violation of the Sabbath Laws. As you may remember, the Sabbath had become a tyranny with hundreds of rules and regulations which laid out in detail what a man might or might not do. The original Ten Commandments of God had been delineated into 613 laws; 248 positive (thou shalt’s) and 365 negative (thou shalt not’s). Jesus was very clear in his discrimination between the spiritual principles of rest and the worship and service of God for which the day was dedicated, and the useless junk of endless hair-splitting distinctions and prohibitions of the Rabbis. We should not the word used her and translated “withered.” It is exerammenen. It is a reference to the passive verb seems to indicate that the man was born with this handicap, but that it was later caused by some accident or injury. According to some extra-canonical source it appears the man was a stone mason, and he asks Jesus to heal him that he could resume working. This certainly lends credibility that this man’s hand could have been the result of an injury. Luke is the only writer to point out it was the man’s right hand. In the Jewish mind, the right hand was a symbol of power and strength. It was used for greetings and to bestow blessing. The right hand was the “clean hand” meaning a good Jew always ate with his right hand. The left hand was used for bodily functions. With apologies to all you who may be left-handed, the left hand was considered the “unclean hand.” Since this man's right hand was withered, he was handicapped physically and psychologically. Jesus felt compassion for the man with the withered hand. But he was angered by the heartlessness and lack of compassion exhibited by the scribes and Pharisees. Jesus’ love for us goes beyond law and regulation. It extends to our hearts, minds, and souls.

That You May Know - Pt 14

Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick. Now when it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.” But Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” They said to him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” And he said, “Bring them here to me.” Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass, and taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. (Matthew 14:13-21 ESV).

Our reading brings us to another miracle of Jesus. It is one of the favorites, capturing the imagination of believers for centuries. The real question is why did Jesus do it? Could it be that He merely wanted to display his power; was He telling the people in a very dramatic way that he was God. If Jesus was showing off his divine powers, Matthew missed the point. The feeding of the 5000 in Matthew’s Gospel starts with an explanation of how they came to be in this isolated place needing food. They’d followed Jesus there. And Jesus was escaping from Herod. However, Jesus had a history of withdrawing (anachōreō) from evil rulers. He did so when his family withdrew from King Herod (2:12-14); again when they withdrew from Archelaus to live in Nazareth (2:22); again when he withdrew hearing of John’s arrest (4:12); and, he withdrew when he heard Pharisees were conspiring to destroy him (12:15). He certainly wasn’t doing it to draw attention or boast of his powers. And, it doesn’t look very regal either. How could heaven’s appointed king run from earth’s rulers? Jesus withdrew to grieve, to be alone, to catch his breath, to pray, and to consider what could happen to him. He got no chance to relax. The crowds pursued until they found him. They were probably grieving too, horrified by what had happened to John. Herod’s persistent fear was that the Jews would revolt (v. 5). If Jesus wanted to lead a revolt, now would be a good time. Surely it was time to take earth’s kingship from the rulers who resist God’s reign, killing any who dare question their authority. That’s how this crowd thought. John’s Gospel says they were ready to use forceful means to make Jesus their king (John 6:15). But Jesus refused to fight. Whatever he was feeling over John’s death, he turned that emotion into compassion for the crowd who lived under such unjust rulers. His energies were directed not into avenging his cousin’s death, but into caring for the frail who’d struggled to reach this desolate place.

That You May Know - Pt 13

After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 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?” The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going another steps down before me.” Jesus said to him, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.” And at once the man was healed, and he took up his bed and walked. Now that day was the Sabbath. (John 5:1-9 ESV).

Our reading details Jesus’ encounter with the man at the pool of Bethesda. It is a fascinating story. Here was a man afflicted with infirmities for thirty-eight years whose excuse for his prolonged condition that he had no one to help him get into the pool (v. 7). I have often wondered where was his family, or friends? That aside, I have always been intrigued by the preceding verse more. Here Jesus asks him if he wants to be well (v. 6). It seems to me that Jesus’ question spoke to the man’s will. I’ve known some people who do seem to like the role of victim. They seem to constantly retell and reliving all the negatives that have happened to them. They themselves will admit that such a state is stressful and make them unhappy, yet no matter how many people have tried to help them move along in their lives, they are stuck. Like the man at the pool, their total identity is now wrapped up in their condition; it defines them. This man was no longer called by his name. He was now the man at the pool. Here is the great revelation concerning the character of Jesus. It is not His will to leave us in our present state. He comes with the desire and power to change us. It is important to note that Jesus did not ask him if he wanted to be healed. That would only address his current infirmities. He asked the man if he wanted to be made whole. John Gill, in his Exposition on the Bible, says the idea that the question addressed the issue of timing: “Wilt thou be made whole on this day?’ which was the Sabbath.” Not only could he be made whole, but he could be made whole today if he so desired. Jesus asks the same question of us today. I don’t know what condition holds you captive today, but whatever it is, you do not have to be known by your condition. While it may be tempting to stay in our dysfunctions because we have had them for so long rest assured that Jesus can set you free today. That’s who He is. That’s what He can do! He can do the same for you and me. He is just that kind of God. Therefore Believe!

That You May Know - Pt 12

As Jesus went, the people pressed around him. And there was a woman who had had a discharge of blood for twelve years, and though she had spent all her living on physicians, she could not be healed by anyone. She came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, and immediately her discharge of blood ceased. And Jesus said, “Who was it that touched me?” When all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the crowds surround you and are pressing in on you!” But Jesus said, “Someone touched me, for I perceive that power has gone out from me.” And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling, and falling down before him declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched him, and how she had been immediately healed. And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” (Luke 8:43-48 ESV).

In our reading today we see Jesus heal a woman who had “a discharge of blood” (v. 43). It is true that the miracle shows the determination and desperation of this woman to press through the mass of people to just simply touch Jesus. However, we must not mistake the lesson to be in the effort the woman used to reach Jesus. It was not her determination that healed her. It was the fact that Jesus noticed her. It shows the deep compassion and care of Jesus to recognize this woman’s need in the “press” of the crowd. Jesus emphasized the faith of this woman as the reason for her perseverance. It, of course, makes sense that in the absence of faith, healing may not take place. But Scripture reports that healings did not take place in a variety of other situations. The Apostle Paul is perhaps the clearest example of this fact (cf. 2 Corinthians 12:7-9). Our lesson is in the truth that God cares much more about our character than our physical bodies. Sometimes we fail to recognize the omniscience of God. His look is so much greater that we misunderstand our temporary pain for mere evil rather than the purpose and plan of God to work good in our lives (cf. Romans 8:28). The lessons about healing may direct our focus. When Jesus was told that His friend Lazarus was sick, he remained where he was for two more days, saying, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory. . ." (John 11:4). When Jesus arrived at the location, Lazarus was dead. Instead of healing Lazarus, Jesus raised Him from death. We may miss Jesus' very important message if we are focused only on being healed from our disease and not on the Savior who heals. We must capture the thought that God is compassionate and merciful and that nothing is impossible for Him. He has authority over all disease and sickness and can choose to heal whomever He chooses, whenever He chooses. It is a matter of trust. In trusting Him we are in the safest possible place, regardless of our present pain. Hang on to the thread!

That You May Know - Pt 11

And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Rise, pick up your bed and go home.” And he rose and went home. When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men. (Matthew 9:1-8 ESV).

This is perhaps the most preached of all Jesus’ healing miracles. The story of how the four faithful friends brought the man to Jesus, going as far as to tear the roof off to get him to Jesus, is inspiring. However, we must not miss the message of Jesus in view of the great work of the friends. Remember, this man could not walk; he could not approach Jesus on his own. So, the friends brought him into Jesus’ presence. They carried him. They did this in order that he might be healed, restored, brought back to fullness. The paralytic man contributed nothing to his healing; but neither did the friends of the paralytic. It happened because of the work of Christ. Of course I am not discounting the enormous contribution of these men in the bringing of their friend to Jesus. Their commitment to do whatever it took to get their friend to Jesus is an inspiration to us today. It does help us to better understand the role of the inviting and welcoming church. We might even entertain a better understanding of those who bring infants to the waters of baptism. Babies cannot come by their own strength. The unchurched and non-believing persons shrug off the notion of worship and prayer. Such are those, infants and unbelievers, they are the ones who depend upon the faith of others in order that their sins may be forgiven. However, we must realize it is through the faith of others, that they encounter the One who overcomes sin through the power of his healing grace. Sharing faith is central to living a Christian life, for it is through the faith of others that we first came to the life of freedom from shame and guilt. Through the faith of others, we encountered Christ who has forgiven our sins. Through faith, we too bring people to Christ, where sin is defeated and life is restored. Jesus has that kind of power. Won’t you trust him for that freedom today!

That You May Know - Pt 9

And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing.” And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?” (Matthew 8:23-27 ESV).

The story of Jesus calming the storm is told in the three Synoptic Gospels, Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Jesus had been teaching near the Sea of Galilee. Afterwards, He wanted a respite from the crowds so decided to take a boat with the apostles to the opposite shore where there were no large towns (cf. Mark 4:35-36). The Bible reports not long after they sailed, Jesus fell asleep and a storm arose (cf. Luke 8:23). There are two things we learn about the character of Jesus from this miracle. First, we see the true humanity of Jesus. Notice he was tired and needed some rest away from the crowds of people (v. 24). Even the storm did not wake him. This should help us realize that Jesus was genuinely human with the same basic needs we all have. Christ’s humanity is part of what qualifies Him to be our merciful intercessor between us and God the Father. I often find myself closest to the Lord when I am able to withdraw from the “noise” that seems to surround me. Regardless of how you find the peace of Jesus, please spend time each day doing just that. He knows what your circumstance really feels like. He’s “been there and done that”! Trust Him to calm the storm. I also find it surprising that the disciples were so afraid. When Jesus “gave orders to go over to the other side” (v. 18), He knew the storm was coming. He is omniscient (cf. John 2:25); even with a storm brewing, He decided to launch out to sea. The Lord never promised we will never see a storm in life. In fact, He has told us to expect trouble (cf. John 16:33). However, He has promised that He will be with us in the storm. He will never leave His children alone in the midst of trouble. His promise is to get us to the other side (cf. John 14:1-6). Second, this also reveals the divinity of Jesus. Only God can make the “winds and water obey” (cf. Luke 8:25). With one quick word from Jesus, the storm abated and the sea became calm (cf. Mark 4:39). The apostles marveled at this powerful display of Jesus’ supernatural ability over the elements (cf. Luke 8:25). This can be immensely comforting to the Christian in a storm. Faith in Christ is never misplaced. If He can calm the storms of the sea with one word, He can calm the storms of life as well.

That You May Know - Pt 8

Soon afterward he went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a great crowd went with him. As he drew near to the gate of the town, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow, and a considerable crowd from the town was with her. And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” Then he came up and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” And the dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” and “God has visited his people!” And this report about him spread through the whole of Judea and all the surrounding country. (Luke 7:11-18 ESV).

Our reading today is written in the Gospel of Luke as it immediately followed the healing of the centurion’s servant. Here we see Jesus raise a widow's son from the dead. God designed us to live in perfect relationship with Him and with each other in a unity of love and joy for eternity. We all experience deep suffering at some point in life. The woman in this Gospel provides an example of both deep spiritual pain from losing her only son after having already lost her husband, as well as utter material destitution since she would have no legal rights to property or work without a husband or son. When Jesus see this, he is “moved with pity for her.” When we feel most vulnerable, most alone, and our hearts are breaking, we can look to this passage and take comfort in knowing that Christ is looking on us with mercy. Although Christ does not always save those we love from earthly death, this miracle demonstrates His power and His love which brings new life in surprising and supernatural ways. It also points to the hope that all will be made new in the resurrected life in the kingdom of God. As the psalmist proclaims: “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). Moved with mercy and compassion, Christ continues to reach directly into our hearts to dry our tears and heal our wounds. He anoints our wounds with grace and dispels hurtful lies with His divine revelation. Finally, He unites us as members of His body and extends His hand of mercy through His disciples operating under the direction and love of the Holy Spirit. He cares about our suffering. And he does something eternal about it. Jesus has secured a new life for us through his work on the cross. Accept it today. Turn to Him and experience his mercy!

That You May Know - Pt 7

When he had entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, appealing to him, “Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, suffering terribly.” And he said to him, “I will come and heal him.” But the centurion replied, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I too am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes, and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard this, he marveled and said to those who followed him, “Truly, I tell you, with no one in Israel have I found such faith. I tell you, many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” And to the centurion Jesus said, “Go; let it be done for you as you have believed.” And the servant was healed at that very moment. (Matthew 8:5-13 ESV).

Today we will look at the character of Jesus through the healing of the centurion's servant (Matthew 8:5-13). This is one of my favorite stories. Here we see Jesus, the "founder and perfecter of our faith" (Hebrews 12:2), marveling at the faith he found in a man. It's the only instance that the gospels record such a response from Jesus (Matthew 8:5-13; Luke 7:1-10). Both Luke and Matthew use the Greek word thaumazo which is translated "marveled" or "amazed" to describe Jesus' response to the centurion's faith. The only other time this word is used to describe Jesus' response to others' faith is when he marvels at the lack of faith in the people of Nazareth where he grew up (cf. Mark 6:6). The centurion was one the most unlikely persons to amaze Jesus. He was a Gentile. Doubtless he had a pagan upbringing. He was a Roman, stationed in Palestine to subject the Jews to the Emperor's rule. He was a man of war. He achieved the rank of centurion by distinguishing himself above others in the brutal Roman martial arts. Not exactly the résumé you'd expect for becoming one of the Bible's great heroes of faith. But here he is in Capernaum. He shows us a miracle of God's marvelous grace. And he's a first-fruit and a foreshadowing of what Jesus had come to bring about. He was a living illustration that "many [would] come from the east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven" (v. 11). This centurion is also a reminder to us that while man looks on the outward appearance, the Lord looks on the heart (cf. 1 Samuel 16:7). I think we will be surprised someday when Jesus doles out rewards. Most of the great ones among us will probably have lived in obscurity. Jesus is not as impressed with titles, degrees, and achievements as we are. He is impressed with those who really do humbly believe him. That gives me great hope!

That You May Know - Pt 6

And a leper came to him, imploring him, and kneeling said to him, “If you will, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him and said to him, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. And Jesus sternly charged him and sent him away at once, and said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded, for a proof to them.” But he went out and began to talk freely about it, and to spread the news, so that Jesus could no longer openly enter a town, but was out in desolate places, and people were coming to him from every quarter. (Mark 1:40-45 ESV).

Keep in mind that lepers were considered unclean by the Jews and were required to keep a safe distance so they would not contaminate them (cf. Leviticus 13-14). The average course of the disease is nine years and ends in mental decay, coma and ultimately death. The leper was required to wear a black garment and everywhere he went he also had to call out loudly a warning with the cry “unclean, unclean"! Some people even threw rocks at lepers to keep them at a safe distance. This man came boldly right to Jesus believing He had the power to heal him. Jesus, with compassion, reached out and touched him and the leper was instantly healed. To the pious Jew, so conscious of the ritual of uncleanness of the leper, this miracle must have been staggering. Then Jesus tells him to go and report to the priest that he had been healed. The reason was that if ever a leper was cured he had to undergo a complicated ceremony of restoration as described in the Mosaic Law. The key in this miracle is that no person is too disgusting for God’s touch. In a sense we are all people with leprosy because we have all been deformed by the ugliness of sin. But God, by sending His Son Jesus has touched us, giving us the opportunity to be healed. It is a clear revelation of the depth of the compassion of Jesus. The story has been repeated many times. A reporter watched Mother Teresa of Calcutta as she cleaned the maggot-infested wound of a man on the street, only to say, “I wouldn’t do what you do for a million dollars.” Mother Teresa is supposed to have replied, immediately, with a bit of a wry smile, “I wouldn’t either.” Our faith has its own calculus of value, and it is not that of the world. The world must reckon—to the extent that it can—what things are worth. That is the only way we can compare objects and actions to achieve a balance in commerce. Granted, it is often not fair. It’s simply what the market dictates. But Christians do not reckon as the world does because our picture of what it means to be human has been redrawn by Christ. He measured everything with the weight of compassion.

That You May Know - Pt 5

And immediately he left the synagogue and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon's mother-in-law lay ill with a fever, and immediately they told him about her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her, and she began to serve them. That evening at sundown they brought to him all who were sick or oppressed by demons. And the whole city was gathered together at the door. And he healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons. And he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. (Mark 1:29-34 ESV).

This has been a bit of an unusual week. Sunday morning my oldest brother died. He had a long life at 78 years of age, though it was dotted with challenges. Some of those challenges might be judge as failures, though each one had a special part to play in the ultimate strengthening of his faith. Rarely did a week pass that we didn’t have a lengthy conversation. In fact there were many weeks when we talked more than once. I am grateful for those times. Since moving back to Texas I had several opportunities to travel down to the Galveston area and enjoy an extended visit with him. One such visit sticks in my mind today. He had been diagnosed with his second round of non-small-cell lung cancer. While not as aggressive as some others, it is almost always fatal when not treated fully. Because of his age and other factors he was only able to withstand small doses of radiation for the second appearance of the cancer, causing his death. He knew the diagnosis and what lay ahead. That afternoon as we sat on his small patio he asked me about heaven and how he could be certain he would go there when he died. He already knew all those answers. My privilege was merely to remind him of what he already knew. At the end of the conversation he asked one last question: “Why doesn’t God heal everyone?” It was a fair question. Our reading describes Jesus healing Peter's mother-in-law of a fever. Jesus has the power to set people free from sickness and restore them to perfect health and He didn't hold back when it came to Simon Peter's mother-in-law receiving that healing touch. When Jesus entered her home with several other disciples, He took her hand and lifted the fever from her. Later, Jesus healed many others who were sick and oppressed by demons. However, we know he did not heal everyone he came into contact with. So, why not? Let’s see if I can unpack the answer as briefly as possible, though today’s devotional may be a bit longer than usual. Jesus did miracles for many reasons. First, Jesus told us that He came not to be ministered unto, but to minister (cf. Mark 10:45) and in His miracles He certainly did that. He also performed miracles to reveal Himself as being the Son of Man (a Messianic title), and as being the Son of God. Peter on the day of Pentecost affirmed this when he said that Jesus’ miracles showed Him to be “a man approved of God” (Acts 2:22). And, he also did miracles to glorify the Father, because all miracles point to the Father. The miracles Jesus did pointed to the Father in the power they displayed. Remember, Jesus had set aside His divinity, living only in His humanity, while here on earth. So His miracles were done by the power of the Holy Spirit who descended upon Him at His baptism and worked in and through Him. Again, on the day of Pentecost, Peter confirmed this by saying that God showed/proved Jesus by miracles, which He did through Jesus (Cf. Acts 2:22). However, I believe the most important reason for Jesus performing miracles was to give us a glimpse of that which is to come. There is a day coming when all things will be made new by the power of God. The earth and all things in the earth will be restored to the perfection and perfect peace that was enjoyed in the Garden. God’s plan of redemption and restoration will be completed and that will be a miracle of glory displayed forever. Death has come to many since that promise was made. That hasn’t weakened the promise or the hope it provides at all. In fact, it merely serves as a stark reminder of what is to come. As I told my brother on that sunny day sitting on the patio, I envied him in some ways. The chances of him getting to heaven sooner than me was high. He would be home before me. That is to be envied. Here’s how Paul put it: But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. Therefore encourage one another with these words. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). I have a much better understanding of where my real home is. He healed Peter’s mother-in-law, as well as many others that day. However, it may very well be that those who were not healed had a shorter path home. That gives me hope when Jesus doesn’t heal!

That You May Know - Pt 4

On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.” And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. (Luke 5:1-6 ESV).

One day as Jesus was standing by the Sea of Gallilee, the people were crowding around him and listening to the word of God. He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. This miracle is known simply as “the great catch of fish.” Peter is not brimming with faith. "Master, we worked all night” (v. 4) was Peter’s response. He was telling Jesus that, though he was a great teacher, they were the great fishermen. And, they were tired. They had fished all night. Often we are like Peter, full of excuses why we failed and desire to quit, when we should simply look to the One who cannot fail and never tires. It is encouraging that the Lord does not pitch Peter overboard, but accepts his half-hearted obedience and does the miracle anyway. That is Jesus’ way. When we are tired and ready to quit, the great, never-weary Christ acts. Our hearts are never perfect. But Christ honors simple efforts to obey him. Notice Peter’s next reaction. When Peter and the others saw the blessing Jesus had given them – the way he had used them to gather the fish in spite of their half-hearted obedience: "Simon Peter … fell down at Jesus’ feet, saying, ‘Go away from me Lord, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!’” (v. 8). That’s the real secret! This is the point at which we realize our inadequacy means nothing to the success of our venture. It is His power and will that brings “the great catch”. Trust Him!

That You May Know - Pt 3

So he came again to Cana in Galilee, where he had made the water wine. And at Capernaum there was an official whose son was ill. When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went to him and asked him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death. So Jesus said to him, “Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe.” The official said to him, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” Jesus said to him, “Go; your son will live.” The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and went on his way. (John 4:46-47 ESV).

Once more he visited Cana in Galilee, where he had turned the water into wine. There are some oddly incongruous things revealed in Jesus’ visit to his “hometown.” We might even call them strange. Cana is just 15 miles from Nazareth. The people were certainly aware of Jesus’ teaching and miracles. He should have been “their” hometown hero. It is strange that he was so unwelcome. Even his brothers rejected him in the beginning. They did “welcome” him (v. 45). The difference is strange. The “welcome”, or reception, he received was not what it looked like on the outside. It had no true honor for his person in it. It was just an interest in his signs and wonders. Upon this John introduces an “official” (v. 46). When this man heard that Jesus had arrived in Galilee from Judea, he went to him and begged him to come and heal his son, who was close to death. Jesus does not address the man only. He addresses the whole group he has been talking about—the whole region of his own hometown. It seems to me that Jesus is testing him. The official is asking for a miracle for his dying son in a time where people loved to see miracles. And he seems to be asking for the same reason any unbelieving person would love to see a miracle. He has a need and wants it fixed. He does not come to Jesus and admit to his sin asking for forgiveness. Unbelievers don’t love God; they use God. So Jesus bluntly says to the man that he and the other Galileans were sign-seekers (v. 48). It is a rebuff that the official is determined to ignore as he continues to ask for his son’s life. Jesus simply spoke, “Go; your son will live,” the man obeyed without a question. He believed and went. He did not insist on seeing the miracle. He did not complain that Jesus would not come with him. And amazingly, he simply left, John says, believing. I’m inclined to think that in that moment of seeing Jesus speak so sovereignly in spite of his accusations, something awakened in the man. He saw something more than a miracle-worker. We should not miss the grace of Jesus here. He did not reject the official because he had compassion on him. And, we also see not only the grace of the healing, but the power of it. The boy was dying of a fever. The power of Jesus to heal is seen in the fact that he did it with a mere word. A dying boy healed with a word, over distance, at once. Such is the power of Jesus. Grace and power, mercy and might are His to give!

That You May Know - Pt 2

On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus also was invited to the wedding with his disciples. When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” (John 2:1-5 ESV). Today we begin with Jesus’ first recorded miracle. While attending a marriage feast in Cana Jesus turned water into wine. There are several important revelations that are rooted in this miracle. First, and foremost, it was a declaration that Jesus is the source of life. Changing the water to wine offered a symbol of the new spiritual life Jesus brings from the old man in the new birth (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:17). Many people make a mistake here; they want to improve themselves into being worthy of God before they accept Christ. In reality, it's in accepting Jesus as Savior that God counts us worthy of entering his presence (cf. Ephesians 2:8-9).

Jesus turned water into wine because changing one element into another symbolized marriage. It brings new life out of old; first, as the distinctive relationship between two adults; then, eventually in the children who are at once like, yet different from the parents. The miracle particularly represented Israel's relationship with God. He betrothed her to Himself in Egypt, married her to Himself at Sinai and repeatedly called her to be a faithful spiritual spouse. When she proved endlessly faithless, He called her a spiritual harlot. Finally, God divorced His corrupt bride by sending her into exile. Ezekiel's brilliant allegory is but one of many references to that relationship 16:1-63. There is so much in this first miracle; however, my practice is brevity in these devotionals. So, let me mention just two principles: First, this is a direct challenge from Jesus of the premise that the old covenant had the necessary resources to meet Israel’s (or anyone’s) spiritual needs. Jesus didn't have to reference the stone pots to perform the miracle. Since they were used for ceremonial washing of people and utensils, Jesus had them filled to prove that He fulfilled and overfilled ceremonial cleansing; then had the servants draw water turned into wine from the well to illustrate that God's new life came from a different source. That is certainly Good News to all of us! Second, Jesus turned water into wine to prove His real nature to the disciples. The ultimate purpose of the miracle was to reveal His Glory, with the result being faith in Him. It's interesting that Jesus had no interest in recruiting the members of the wedding party, or the steward of the feast. Even though the servants knew the provenance of the wine, Jesus didn't perform the miracle to convince them. His only interest was to reveal his true, inner being to six men. The sign achieved its purpose, for His disciples believed in Him. Even then He was being the Good Shepherd who saw the one missing sheep and left the ninety-nine to find it. That is Good News for us as well. We are all that one lost sheep! As you continue through the day, ponder the incredible love and grace God shows us in Jesus through this simple creative act. This is what He wants us to know!

Thay You May Know - Pt 1

Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:31-33 ESV).

I’m actually writing this devotional some days earlier than it will post. Here in North Texas it is a stormy night with the forecast for heavier rains than normal and potential flooding throughout the area over the next two days. My typical reaction is “Yuk!” Tonight it has served to inspire me for the subject in the next week. Our reading today is particularly encouraging. John quotes Jesus promising that we will have “tribulation” in this world, but “take heart… I have overcome the world” (v. 33). Over the next week I hope to encourage you with the miracles of Jesus. I have done some of these passages in dealing with the perspective of the recipients of the works and words of Jesus. I want us to look a bit deeper and see the revelation of the character and power of Jesus in them. The life that God calls us to is wonderful because Jesus has overcome the world. So, as a matter of background for this series ponder these phrases from our reading: First, note Jesus said, “I have told you these things” (v. 32). It is Jesus’ gentle reminder of what he had been teaching the disciples since the beginning. The coming events should not be a surprise, even though they were. Moreover, the result should not be a surprise. He would overcome and so will we. Second, Jesus said these things would happen “so that in me you may have peace” (v. 32). It was not the information itself that was to bring them peace. Although it would help when trouble came for them to remember that Jesus had been prophetic in his warning, their peace would be in Him. Seeking peace anywhere else is a trap. Other methods of finding peace or security only lead to anxiety. The peace we find in Christ is eternal and will withstand any circumstances. Third, Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble” (v. 32). We can and must put away any false doctrine of prosperity. Make no mistake, seeking the Kingdom of God and his righteousness (cf. Matthew 6:33) and living wisely unto God will make it highly likely that you will prosper, but no one, Christian or not Christian, avoids trouble in this life if they live very long. He also says we can “take heart.” To take heart means to be encouraged. Jesus’ words are meant to strengthen us. Fourth, Jesus says, “I have overcome the world” (v. 33). When Jesus spoke these words he had not yet faced all of the cruel suffering of the last three days of his earthly ministry. And yet, that he had already overcome the world was evident in the tense he used (I have, rather than I will). He would face what was to come because he was the Lamb slain since the foundation of the world (cf. Revelation 13:8). As his followers, we too can face anything because, in Him, we too have overcome. Take heart and walk out what God has for you for your joy and his glory.

Happy Valentine's Day!

When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself, and glorify him at once. Little children, yet a little while I am with you. You will seek me, and just as I said to the Jews, so now I also say to you, ‘Where I am going you cannot come.’ A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:31-35 ESV).

Valentine’s Day shouldn’t be just about us. If we are as intentional about loving Him as we are about loving each other, the whole day can still bring glory to the Creator. James, the brother of our Lord wrote: Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens (James 1:17). With that in mind, let me make four suggestions of ways that we might honor God on this day. 1. First, use some time during the day to write down all of the ways God has shown His love for you. Go big and broad. Notice the love of God’s for you through the bird singing outside your window or the crazy dog you have adopted sleeping at the foot of your bed. See His love through the little arms hugging your neck and the heat in your home on a cold morning. Be acutely aware of the presence of God as He blesses you. 2. Second, be intentional in doing some good in your world today. The Wisdom of Solomon has this to say as a reminder: Never walk away from someone who needs help; for you may be the hand of God to that person (Proverbs 3:27 The Message). Be His hands and share His love with someone else. 3. Third, read with someone today. You may not have a child in your home any longer, so copy passages from your favorite poetry, Scripture, or common prose and tuck them into places where strangers will find them. Perhaps you can visit the local convalescent center and read to some of the older patients who may not be able to do any longer. It may be that you leave these short notes in the break room where you work, or tucked into magazines in the waiting rooms of doctors offices (always ask for permission). Let God lead you to leave blessings for someone to find by divine appointment. 4. Fourth, love others. Love is a verb. Love your loved ones. Call your family and friends. Go out of your way to serve your children or grandchildren. Celebrate them today. Do something special for your spouse. Let your family see the love of Jesus reflected through you. Have a very special day! Happy Valentine’s Day!

Valentine's for Singles - Pt 5

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. (1 John 4:7-10 ESV).

All of our hearts long for love whether we know it or not. We were literally made to love. God is love. The key is always in how we perceive true love. Jesus’ encouragement that we love God with all our “heart, mind, and soul” (cf. Matthew 22:37) is a standard position for us to express our love toward God; however, it leaves us somewhat uninformed in knowing what that really should look like in our practice. Part of the problem is the very word “love” takes on so many meanings. We can say in one breath, "I love coffee. I love my spouse. I love Jesus." We really need to know what true love looks like, and more, what does it feel like. True love is more than a sensation, a feeling, a mission, or even a doctrine. True love is a genuine desire for the well-being of another. True love that brings glory to God is the very purpose of life and the existence of the church. Some will say that missions is the ultimate goal of the church: “The supreme task of the Church is the evangelization of the world. The mission of the church is missions” (Oswald J. Smith). Others will say it is worship: “Missions is not the ultimate goal of the church. Worship is. Missions exists because worship doesn’t. Worship is ultimate, not missions, because God is ultimate, not man. When this age is over, and the countless millions of the redeemed fall on their faces before the throne of God, missions will be no more. It is a temporary necessity. But worship abides forever” (John Piper). My understanding is that love is ultimate and that missions and worship are the outgrowth of that love. God commands His people to love Him with all their heart, soul, and strength. In Jesus’ “Great commandment” he says that we are to love the Lord our God with ALL of our heart, ALL of our soul, ALL of our mind, and ALL of our strength. ALL means ALL. Later He tells us that all men will know that we are His disciples by our love for one another. Then Paul explains in his letter to the Corinthians that faith, hope, and love are all lasting virtues, but the greatest of these three is love. According to God, Jesus, and Paul love appears to be the ultimate goal for us and therefore the church. So, I would encourage everyone, single or not, to be careful not to dread tomorrow. February 14th should be a day to look forward to as a special day God has given us to glorify him. Let’s be reminded to search for satisfaction in Christ. Let’s use our sadness to dwell on his sacrifice, purchase, and love for us. Let’s seize the day to pursue him!

Valentine's for Singles - Pt 4

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! Surely a man goes about as a shadow! Surely for nothing they are in turmoil; man heaps up wealth and does not know who will gather! And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you. (Psalm 39:4-7 ESV).

Perhaps the most difficult aspect of finding ourselves alone for any holiday, especially one designed to emphasize companionship and love as Valentine’s Day does, is the feeling of hopelessness. This truth brought me to focus our attention on one of the most beloved “superheroes” in the DC Family, Superman. The character has been portrayed by several actors through the decades. One that stands out is Christopher Reeve. Some would defend his portrayal as the best of all. You may remember that in 1995 he was paralyzed from the neck down as a result of a horse-riding accident. It was soon afterward that he founded the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation in 1998 to promote research on spinal cord injuries. He died of cardiac arrest in 2004 as a result of a reaction from antibiotics. He has often been quoted for his inspirational remarks to those who were disabled with spinal cord injuries. Just one of those was, “Once you choose hope, anything’s possible.” However, based on all accounts, he died with his hope unfulfilled. As he spoke in an interview concerning his faith, he said, “[F]amily, friends and well-wishers from around the world assured me that prayers and my faith in God would comfort me. I tried to pray but I didn't feel any better, nor did I make any kind of connection with God.” He seemed to place his hope in temporal things. Real hope does not spring from things that are constantly changing. Science and medicine, as important and beneficial as they may be, cannot bring us eternal hope. We are still left at the end of our lives with “feelings” of unfulfilled dreams and unmet goals. Our lives here are merely a vapor, a breath (v. 5). Let me quickly make an application to those who are alone: even if we remain single for the rest of our lives here on earth, it is only a fraction of time compared to the eternity we will spend rejoicing in the presence of Christ. I do not relish the idea of living out my days alone in this world. Nevertheless, I am comforted, encouraged, and hopeful in remembering God’s eternal perspective: my days here are limited (v. 4), and sooner than I realize, I will be in his comforting, fulfilling presence, enjoying perfect harmony and companionship with him and all the saints for all eternity. This light momentary affliction, whether a lonely Valentine’s Day or a lifetime of singleness, is preparing an eternal weight of glory (cf. 2 Corinthians 4:17). This gives me hope. My prayer is that it will bring you hope as well!

Valentine's for Singles - Pt 3

I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:10-13 ESV).

The wonderful truth of Scripture is that we are never alone. Real fulfillment comes to us when we recognize that God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him. Only Christ can fill the emptiest hearts, the loneliest moments, and the saddest days. He understands them all (cf. Hebrews 4:15-16). He loves each of his children (cf. Jeremiah 31:3). He promises to fulfill all of our needs (cf. Philippians 4:19). We may feel like we need a boyfriend or girlfriend. We may feel like we need the special intimacy and companionship only a spouse can provide. We may feel like we need sex. Again, these are legitimate longings. But even if God does not satisfy these specific desires right now, he does promise his comfort and support during the pain of waiting (cf. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Leaning on his strength, we can carry on (v. 13). And we can do more than that — we can live full, satisfied, truly joyful lives (cf. Psalms 16:11). Instead of using the season of singleness as a time to mope and bemoan your loneliness, you can use it to chase after your Creator, pursuing a deeper, more satisfying, more glorifying relationship with him every day. It is true that God created marriage and sex for us to enjoy, but he did not create us for enjoying marriage and sex, ultimately. He created us to enjoy him, in whatever circumstances (v. 11) — singleness cannot get in the way of God’s promise of full joy in him (cf. Psalm 16:11). Instead of marking our calendars for an annual day of mourning while the world revels in mutual love, we can mark our calendars to celebrate the special relationship we have with our Father in heaven, who lovingly looks on us and showers us with his glorious blessings and assures us that we are never alone. Make this Valentines’ Day such a day in your life, whether you’re single or not. Intentionally dwell on the provision of God’s love proven and provided for you in the work of God’s grace on your behalf through the cross.

Valentine's for Singles - Pt 2

On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. (John 7:37-39 ESV).

Let’s get a little more specific today, both for those who are single and married. Valentine’s Day can be a day to remember the call to contentment. When you’re on a diet, does it help you to look at pictures of food, or does it make you even more weak, hungry, and miserable and more likely to cave to your cravings? For me, it’s the latter. Looking at what we long for but cannot help but stir up feelings in us we cannot satisfy. It causes us to feel drained, despondent, and worse still, discontent. Longing for companionship, romance, marriage, and sex is not in itself wrong. God himself created these gifts so we would enjoy them (cf. Genesis 2:18; Proverbs 5:18; Song of Solomon; 1 Corinthians 7:5; 1 Timothy 4:4; 6:17). Desiring these good things and feeling loneliness and sadness without them is natural. It is not necessarily sinful. It is being human the way God created us to be. But for those who are single, these yearnings remain unfulfilled. As a result, it is difficult not to other things that can be destructive. Those are those habits that won’t lead to marriage and cannot fulfill God’s design in our lives. They are the vain attempts to satisfy the voids in our hearts. When we are in a state of weakness, verging on the precipice of discontentment or even dissatisfaction with God, these activities can quickly become dangers. Through fruitless relationships we can exploit other people to get the emotional security we crave without seeking to love and honor them above ourselves. For many single people, the cheap pleasures of pornography or other sexual experiences become most alluring when they feel discontent. But even good things can become dangers when you use them to quench your loneliness. They make you laugh, have a good time, and forget your sorrows for a moment, but when these fleeting pleasures fade you will feel more aware of your alone-ness. For Christians, this should not be the case. We can combat this disappointment and loneliness by turning to the only one who can fulfill us… Jesus Christ. He is the only source of happiness which will never disappoint us and never leave us feeling discontent (cf. Jeremiah 2:13). Jesus invites all of us to drink deeply from the well that will satisfy our real thirst.

Valentine's for Singles - Pt 1

Sing to God, sing praises to his name; lift up a song to him who rides through the deserts; his name is the Lord; exult before him! Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation. God settles the solitary in a home; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity, but the rebellious dwell in a parched land. (Psalm 68:4-6 ESV).

I am well aware that there is a balanced demographic to the readers of Morning Devotionals. So, it may feel strange for me to dedicate the next few days to writing under the title of “Valentine’s for Singles.” However, it is no stranger that the holiday itself. G.K. Chesterton saw the oddness of it with his remark that “there seems to be a comic incongruity in such lively and frivolous flirtations still depending on the title of an ascetic and celibate bishop.” Some may not know that February 14th is the feast day of the Patron of love, happy marriages, and youths, known as Saint Valentine. Though much of the information about his life in uncertain, this priest lived in the third century and was martyred. Church history teaches that he was arrested and sent to Rome because of his persistent will to convert people to Christianity. According to the story, he was also arrested for marrying Christian couples, which was seen as a crime as well. He was given the choice of renouncing his faith or dying. He refused to renounce Christ, so on February 14th he was martyred. Some also report he cured his jailer’s daughter of her blindness, leaving her a note, saying, “Your Valentine” on the day he was to die. And thus the holiday was born. Valentine’s Day remains a massively popular holiday in America, despite the fact that many people don’t simply consider the day strange, but dread it all together. For some, the day is too commercialized, though many who cringe at Valentine’s Day are simply lonely. Valentine’s Day is not an easy or light thing to face as a single person. The love-themed movies, charming cards, and chocolate hearts can easily make one feel sad and tired. But for Christians, married or single, it is a day that can be used to enjoy God’s gifts of contentment, fulfillment, and hope. These are the gifts that Christ died to purchase for us, whether we’re single or married. We’ll be more specific in the coming days; however, here are some suggestions for taking the edge off your loneliness this year. Show your friends and family how much you love them by sending cards or gifts. As a single person, you can make an enormous impact. Volunteer to babysit for a married couple, while they enjoy a romantic evening out. Pray for and write letters to your future mate. Make (or purchase) cookies to take to the older singles in Convalescent Homes. Many of them will be alone on this day. Pour yourself into others. It will amaze you how this will positively affect your attitude.

Sadie Hawkins Day

So she went down to the threshing floor and did just as her mother-in-law had commanded her. And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then she came softly and uncovered his feet and lay down. At midnight the man was startled and turned over, and behold, a woman lay at his feet! He said, “Who are you?” And she answered, “I am Ruth, your servant. Spread your wings over your servant, for you are a redeemer.” (Ruth 3:6-9 ESV).

This year is designated as a “leap year.” Without going into great detail, suffice it to say this “extra” day, designated as February 29th every four years, catches us up with our calendar. There is also another tradition that has evolved around leap year. It began from a cartoon written and drawn by Al Capp. The cover from 1937 is pictured with today’s devotional. In the cartoon series, the mayor of Dogpatch was desperate to marry off his daughter. So he created Sadie Hawkin's Day. On this day, a race was held and all the single men were given a short head start. Then, all the single women, including the mayor's daughter, chased the boys. If a girl catches her man, he had to marry her. I remember the role reversal dances of my high school days named after this holiday very well! Our reading today recalls an experience not too far from these traditions. In fact, as you read the story of Boaz, it seems that Boaz has been forced into in a highly embarrassing position, not to say a thoroughly compromising one. He, meanwhile, sleeps the sleep of the just after a day’s work well done and a satisfying supper until he wakes up to what has been going on. There is a woman lying at his feet! I’m sure the surprise and wonder was exaggerated even more when she asks him to “spread the corner of his garment over her.” The Good News Bible translates this euphemism bluntly as “Please marry me.” I wonder in how many countries around the world such a thing would happen today. It certainly isn’t as rare as it once was in America. However, it wasn’t that long ago when the “tradition” used to be that only on February 29th might the woman propose to the man. Of course, our reading has nothing to do with Leap Year. Ruth is simply appealing to a custom that everyone in Israel knew. Boaz is a “kinsman-redeemer,” and she is asking him to take up the same responsibility for her that her husband, Mahlon, had before he died. The wonder for us is in how this gives us the blueprint which God has laid down for the life of his people designed to make that sort of relationship possible. On God’s loving laws Ruth bases her hopes. So our hope is in Jesus. He is our Kinsman-Redeemer! Trust Him everyday!

Matters of the Heart - Pt 7

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ. (Ephesians 5:15-21 ESV).

My friend, Alex Pazdan, and I have been collaborating on a book. Obviously writing is not foreign to me. I have completed three published works, numerous articles and sermons, and I write these Morning Devotionals for each day. However, I must say this last work was significantly different than anything I’ve done in the past. Not only is it much longer than anything else I’ve written, coming in at just over 100,000 words, it is also a work of fiction. It is presently in the hands of the developmental editor. That part of the process should take two or three months. Then we’ll work with the formatting department, graphics designer for the cover art, and the legal team to get it ready for press release and distribution. Start to finish estimates are sometime early summer. I have a much better appreciation for the definition of the word “perseverance” now than ever. And, that brings me to the last of our little series began at the beginning of this month, Matters of the Heart. A health heart spiritually requires perseverance, or diligence. Certainly that is the meaning of the Apostle Paul’s encouragement in our reading today: Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil (v. 15). While there are many applications to this principle, let me merely highlight two. It is in the area of your prayer life. Paul writes to the church in Thessalonica, encouraging them to “pray without ceasing” (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:17). Perhaps it is that I find myself challenged in this area that I go here first. I want to pray more; I want to pray with greater depth and understanding. However, I often find my mind wandering to the list of things I need to do. I know the answer to a healthier prayer life is in the doing of it. Just like there were days when I sat at my desk to write and didn’t really feel like writing, as I began the story unfolded and by the end of the day I had another 5,000 words done pushing the story to the final sentence of the last chapter. The other encouragement I would have for you is refusing to lose heart (cf. Luke 18:1). When writing the book my friend would call, since he had not heard from me with any updates for him to proofread in several days, and say, “Just wanted to make sure you hadn’t gotten ‘writer’s block’.” I never had difficulty with the story, but the encouragement to press on sometimes escaped me. Determine to persevere! Don’t lose heart! Heaven is on the horizon!

Matters of the Heart - Pt 6

It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:10–11 ESV).

The next in our series of “heart-healthy” spiritual examinations is often misunderstood and misquoted. It deals with discipline. In our reading today, which is both the clearest statement of the work of God in disciplining His children and the most controversial, there are three different Greek words used. While I won’t use the space to deal with all of them, the most prominent is paideúō. It is taken from the word país, which means "a child under development with strict training." It is a reference of properly training a child so they mature and realize their full potential. While there is great disagreement about whether corporal punishment is necessary to “train up” our children today, there can be no doubt that in the spiritual realm that part of the discipline has already taken place in the punishment of Jesus on the cross for all of our sins. Let me illustrate the concept of discipline with a recent quote from Craig W. Lindsey’s interview with my son, Kyle. It originally appeared in a larger context of Kyle’s work in Pharmacological Research. Kyle was asked about his “philosophy or a favorite quote.” Here is his answer: When I was a child, my father would take me fishing, and I would inevitably get frustrated when the fish were not biting. He would always tell me, “that’s why they call it fishing and not catching.” It was apparently something that my grandfather had told him when he was about the same age. I realized much later that within this little quote is a bigger and more transcendent principle… that it is important to enjoy the process as much as the outcome. (ACS Chemical Neuroscience 2020 11 (2), 99-100). I suppose I could have become frustrated and angry at his complaint while we pleasantly floated along the surface of the lake, mostly “fishing and not catching,” but at least that time I did what a father should do… teach. I’m glad the lesson was heard and it stuck. However, there’s an even greater lesson for me today. In my heavenly Father’s “teaching” I may often feel “pain.” Training is, after all, hard. The results are always worth it. My prayer must be that the Lord will continue to discipline me for my good so that I may share in His holiness and bear the peaceful fruit of righteousness (v. 11). I hope that becomes your prayer each day as well. That is the way to a healthy heart!

Matters of the Heart - Pt 5

Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word. You are good and do good; teach me your statutes. The insolent smear me with lies, but with my whole heart I keep your precepts; their heart is unfeeling like fat, but I delight in your law. (Psalm 119:67-70 ESV).

We’ve been looking at a few verses that describe how we can be “heart-healthy” spiritually. Today I’ve chosen a reading from the longest psalm in the Bible. In fact, with 176 verses it is also the longest single chapter in the Bible. Most scholars can agree that it was written by David, Daniel, or Ezra. Whoever the author was there can be no doubt they understood suffering from a very personal perspective. These verses are not written from an ivory tower scholar sheltered from the difficulties of pain and rejection. It is replete with a sense of desperation. From that perspective we hear the voice of God with the remedy to our every need. We have all heard the common wisdom expressed with “Desperate times call for desperate measures.” I would assert that is wrong. I cannot deny there are those times in life where hopelessness looms on the horizon. These are the times when there’s a darkness that falls fresh on the heels of hopelessness. It is a desperate time. The answer is not doing something desperate, but being desperate. This is when your situation seems to be so hard that it seems as if there is no end in sight. That’s when being desperate calls to God from the depths of despair in prayer. Our prayer lives take many forms. Some are quiet others are loud. Some are simple and others are desperate. Desperation drives us to prayer that keeps pressing in with feelings rooted in the appearance of enemies that seem to be prevailing. It is this kind of prayer that presses on when it seems like the arrogance of God’s enemies will prevail. This is the type of prayer that while it’s plain the situation is perilous, God is not powerless. God is not quietly obliviously to my plight. God is not ignorant of the uproar from His enemies. God is not blind to the rising up of arrogance against Him. He hears my prayers and answers them according to His will, His timing, and His purposes. With every prayer, my trust only grows in my God who loves me and I love Him. My heart check today is in the examination of whether I am willing to do whatever it takes in my desperation to draw in closer to God. I need that kind of desperate action because I tend to wander when I stop feeling my need for Him. I have found the dawn breaks when I do this and I begin to see the goodness of God poured out in my life like a healing balm. How about you? Are you desperate?

Matters of the Heart - Pt 4

About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. (Hebrews 5:11-14 ESV).

We should all be concerned with our level of discernment. Our reading today draws a very clear difference between “milk,” or “baby food,” and “solid food” (vv. 13-14). The writer encourages us to desire this “solid food” so that we can “discern good from evil.” Even as I write this devotional I know there are going to be some who misunderstand my intent. My sincere hope is that you will understand me to say that spiritual heart health depends in a large degree on your ability to intentional continue your growth and determining good from evil. If the world is nothing else, it certainly is confusing. That ability is determined by our spiritual depth, or maturity. Just like newborns are not expected to be able to make good choices, God does not expect new believers to make good decisions immediately. He does desire us to grow into that ability. This is accomplished as we transition to “solid food.” Here are some suggestions: First, develop a hunger for humility. Recognize that you don’t know as much as you might think; and, know that many things are simply “above your pay-grade. In other words, discerning people know that God, not their own mind's experience or instinct is the source of wisdom and ultimately the source of safety. From this place of humility, discerning people are able to ask for help from the One who gives it freely and abundantly. Second, look for goodness in the brokenness. This is not a denial of the brokenness or pretending that it doesn’t exist. We cannot be idealists; however, we can and should know that that the “way the world works” is not always the way God intended it to work. We must accept that God is the ultimate standard of what is right and submit all things, even our most deeply held customs and practices to him. Third, we should walk humbly before others deferring to those who have more experience and knowledge. In a world of search engines and social media, it can be tempting to believe that everyone’s opinion on any given subject is equally valid. But access to information is not knowledge, and tips and tricks are not skill and expertise. We should also learn to recognize wisdom in others. This is always affirmed by the Scripture. So, join me in becoming a better eater… enjoy the “meat of the Word.” Find yourself growing in your ability to recognize good from evil.

Matters of the Heart - Pt 3

[Jesus said], I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:1-5 ESV).

When I think about self-examination and my “spiritual heart health” I must look at my connection to Jesus as my source of strength and hope. In learning the source of this strength I find that I am drawn to an understanding of the truth that without Him I can do nothing; but, with Him nothing is impossible. This is the place I can be free from the anxiety of life. After all, anxiety comes from the misplaced belief that I can control a future that I can’t even know or imagine. Strength comes from trusting in the One who not only knows the future, but is also enough for whatever storm arises. The picture I’ve chosen to accompany today’s devotional is telling in the symbolism I see in it. Notice the old boat is plowing through the raging storm chasing it. I can imagine the engine struggling to make progress through the choppy way and fierce winds. I wonder how many times I’ve been guilty of that kind of reaction to the difficulties I’ve faced. Like this boat I struggle to escape my circumstances when the best course would be through the storm to the safety of land. Notice in the painting how the old boat is trying to sail away from the lighthouse where it could find a safe port. Somehow, as life becomes more difficult, I forget the words of Jesus: As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me (v. 4). Somehow, Jesus is often the last One I turn to for help. Tragically the end of that course of action is always a separation from the Vine. I started my annual pruning of the grape vines I’m growing in the back. They are “wild” muscadines. They are very prolific, but when pruned properly they produce a wonderful grape suited for jelly. Two things are keys in the pruning. One, the branches I prune are only good for burning. They no longer function separately from the vine. Two, the branches I leave grow healthier and produce more because they receive the necessary “life” from the vine. In matters of the heart we cannot afford to miss the principle of dependence on Jesus, who is the true Vine!

Matters of the Heart - Pt 2

[Jesus said], Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:19-21 ESV).

Over the next few days we’re continuing to do a “check-up” on our spiritual heart. Typically, as I begin any period of self-examination I like to follow a specific list of principles from the Scripture that help me measure hwere I am in comparison to what God desires for me. I hope you’ll find these helpful in your own exam. You can also see that I have used a specific reading for each of these categories. The first concerns where I’m “putting my treasure.” When I think about treasure I am always drawn to those things that I cannot live without. I’ve often asked myself that old question: “If your house was on fire, and you could only save one thing, what would it be?” Of course, this assumes that my family and pets are already safely sheltered from the calamity. I’ve heard others list the things that are precious to them. Some say photos or scrapbooks; others list heirlooms passed down to them from generation to generation; and, some say there are vital documents they would save. I have all of those things in my home and they are very important to me. Some of them are even irreplaceable. However, none of them rise to the level of “treasure.” When I ponder the real meaning of this word it brings me to a decision about things that I cannot survive without; not merely things that I cannot replace. Perhaps an example would be helpful. The summer before Mary and I married we were separated for a few weeks. During that time we wrote each other letters nearly each day. Of course, we still have those. However, the most treasured communication of that time was a little booklet that she made for me. She bound it in a handcrafted hard cover and set each page together with a ribbon. There is poetry, song lyrics, and heart-felt prose written on each page. I have never been without it for over fifty years now. It has always had a place in my offices through the years. Just looking at the blue cloth cover brings me great pleasure. It is irreplaceable, but I can survive without it. I don’t want to, but I can. When Jesus told us to set aside treasures in heaven (v. 20), he was talking about those things that are eternal. These are things like faith, hope, and love. I don’t need to have a booklet to tell me that Mary loves me. She shows me love with every act of every day. Neither do I need anything to show me God’s love for me. He shows it with every breath I take. What’s your treasure? How’s your heart?

Matters of the Heart - Pt 1

Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Put away from you crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you. Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil. (Proverbs 4:23-27 ESV).

I don’t know where January got off to; however, with the start of February I have begun to think more about “Matters of the Heart.” This is true both in an emotional and physical way. The emotional part of my thoughts is easy enough to understand, though the physical part may require a bit of background. About eighteen months ago I was in the hospital for some cardio-vascular testing. They had done every test up to this final, more invasive test. They couldn’t find anything wrong, though my symptoms persisted. By the time the procedure was finished the doctors had placed stents in two arteries and found a 60% blockage in the LAD (better known as the “widow maker”). This month is another round of testing to determine if that blockage has increased. Did you know the human heart typically pumps at a rate of 70-75 beats per minute, and though weighing only 11 ounces on average, a healthy heart pumps 2,000 gallons of blood through 60,000 miles of blood vessels each day? A healthy heart can do amazing things. Conversely, if our heart malfunctions, our whole body shuts down. The same could be said of our “spiritual heart.” In Scripture, the word heart represents the center of our emotions, thinking, and reasoning. It is the “command center” of our life. So, I thought February would be a great time to do a brief series of devotionals dealing with our spiritual heart. Our reading today is taken from the collection known as the “Book of Wisdom.” The first verse declares, “Keep your heart with all vigilance” (v. 23). Of course, that’s easy to understand; however, it is advice that is next to impossible to keep. Life will always make demands upon our time and energy that cry out for immediate attention. By comparison, taking time to hear God’s Word and to do what it says may not shout quite so loudly. We may not notice the consequences of neglect right away, but over time it may give way to a spiritual heart attack. I’m thankful God has given us His Word. We need His help not to neglect it, but to use it to align our hearts with His every day. So, we’ll begin some devotionals today that will help us get a “check-up.” As part of the procedure, begin to think about your condition. Has there been any changes in your life; are you “feeling” as fit as ever? Or, have you slipped a bit? It could be that you need to get more spiritual blood flowing by tuning your spiritual heart. Start today with a sincere expression to the Lord for change!