The Story of God and Man

 

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:1-8 ESV).

 

There is a temptation to think that using the word “story” when talking about God and the things He has said and done might be interpreted to mean “fable.” Nothing could be further from the truth. I believe all the Scripture is inspired (breathed) by God and absolutely true and without error. By using the word “story” I merely want to convey the scope and depth of what God has done in life. In fact, He has been working good for us before life began and will still be working good long after our lives are spent on this earth.

 

So, we can unapologetically say that the Bible is not simply a book that includes a lot of stories but that the whole Bible itself is one big story. It’s the story of what God has done in creation, what we did to sabotage his efforts, and what God is doing now in his vast, eternal plan to fix what we ruined. The main character is always God.

 

This is important. Christianity is the only faith in which God is the one who does the heavy lifting. Every other religion, including atheism, ultimately comes down to a set of instructions for what people need to do to make things better. In the history-spanning drama that brings the Christian gospel to the world, however, God is the main actor, and we play only supporting roles. Jesus Christ entered our world and carried the burden of everything that had gone wrong.

 

So, the Bible is the account of what God has done. It’s a grand story with supporting materials. While it includes plenty of foundational doctrines and important ethical teachings, the most important thing about the Bible is that it tells us what God has done. That makes it a story, the greatest story of all time. When you read the Bible, I encourage you to read it as a book of what God has done, not a book about what you should do.

 

The Greatest Storyteller

 

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I would count them, they are more than the sand. I awake, and I am still with you. (Psalm 139:13-18 ESV).

 

I hope you will forgive the use of an AI created image today. As I was preparing to write these next few devotionals, I wanted to conjure up a thought in your imagination of an old wise man immersed in his books writing a story. As you may know, I am a storyteller of sorts. In fact, I have been told that sometimes my stories are a bit too detailed and lengthy. I admit that I love to spin a tale. I do hope all of the stories have a purposeful effect on those who may be reading or listening to them.

 

This same thought brings me to the truth that I want to focus our attention on in the coming days. God is a storyteller. However, it’s surprising how easily we can end up missing the stories God has written for our lives. Winston Churchill once famously claimed that history was simply “one … thing after another.” In other words, he claimed there was no story behind our experiences in life, only a series of events. He couldn’t have been more wrong. If he was correct, there are few things more deadening to your soul than thinking that your life ultimately means little more than one thing after another.

 

Yet that’s how we often feel. On many days we view our jobs or careers or families as where we have “ended up” in life. But the Bible tells us that the events of our lives make sense because they are part of a much larger story. The struggles of last month or the victories that we may claim in the next few weeks are not simply chance occurrences. They are part of a story line that is going somewhere. The work you do, the people you share life with, the abilities you have, and the weaknesses you struggle with are all part of a collection of elements intended to make for a really good story, the story of you. God’s story of you. Celebrate that with me today. God has great purpose and love for all He has created… that includes each of us!

 

Fear - Pt. 3

 

Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee,  and there they will see me.” (Matthew 28:1-10 ESV).

 

This world can be a scary place, and fear is something we all must face. The Bible tells us, “Do not be afraid!” Again and again we read of God’s coming to his people with such comforting and empowering words as “Do not fear. I am with you. I am your God and will never forsake you. You are mine.” In the story of Jesus’ resurrection, both the angel at the tomb and Jesus on the road began their conversation with the women by saying, “Do not be afraid…”

 

In our reading today, the women’s encounter with the supernatural was overwhelming, and their fear was real. But the power of the resurrection assures us that the Lord cares for his people and is with them in whatever times may come. Because Jesus rose again and is with us always through his Holy Spirit (cf. Matthew 28:18-20), we can have freedom from fear because we are never alone. In God’s presence and strength we can face whatever comes.

 

I have often shared with others a common proverb that has settled my heart in times of fear. It is based in part in the victory won for us by Jesus’ death and resurrection. Perhaps it might be of comfort to you as well: Never let past failures or future fears rob you of present joy! He is with us always … unto the end of the age!

 

Fear - Pt. 2

 

But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, the offspring of Abraham, my friend; you whom I took from the ends of the earth, and called from its farthest corners, saying to you, “You are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off”; fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Behold, all who are incensed against you shall be put to shame and confounded; those who strive against you shall be as nothing and shall perish. You shall seek those who contend with you, but you shall not find them; those who war against you shall be as nothing at all. For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.” Fear not, you worm Jacob, you men of Israel! I am the one who helps you, declares the Lord; your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel. (Isaiah 41:8-14 ESV).

 

Fear of the future, also known as anticipatory anxiety, is a common experience where individuals worry excessively about potential negative events or outcomes that may occur in the future. This fear can manifest in various ways, from general anxiety about the unknown to specific phobias like chronophobia (fear of time). While some degree of worry about the future is normal, excessive fear can be debilitating, impacting daily life and well-being.

 

Fear is different at various stages of life. When we ask children what they fear, they will often mention fear of the dark, or spiders, or getting lost. Teens and adults are more experienced and tend to mention bigger risks, such as mass shootings, a natural disaster (often called an “act of God”), or anything that could rob them of life, either themselves or that of a loved one. As we age into adulthood fear of the future in general becomes more the focus of our anxiety.

 

God knows how we are made and how fear can cripple us. In the Scripture the message “Do not fear” occurs some 365 times, in one phrasing or another. The prophet Isaiah, speaking God’s words to God’s chosen people, encourages Israel to trust God—even though they will suffer in captivity—and not to fear, because God has an amazing rescue plan.

 

When we lose our job, learn that we have a serious illness, face a big financial loss, or watch a family member make dangerous choices, we naturally experience fear for the future. God’s words in Isaiah invite us to look at the big picture, the overarching story. Our God promises, in effect, “I am with you; I am your God; I will strengthen you and help you. My right hand will take hold of your right hand, so do not be dismayed.”

Trust that unfailing promise of God!

 

Overcoming Fear - Pt. 1

 

And Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau his brother in the land of Seir, the country of Edom, instructing them, “Thus you shall say to my lord Esau: Thus says your servant Jacob, ‘I have sojourned with Laban and stayed until now. I have oxen, donkeys, flocks, male servants, and female servants. I have sent to tell my lord, in order that I may find favor in your sight.’” And the messengers returned to Jacob, saying, “We came to your brother Esau, and he is coming to meet you, and there are four hundred men with him.” Then Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed. (Genesis 32:3-7 ESV).

 

Fear can be a powerful force in our lives. I wish that I could honestly say that I have no fears; however, that’s simply not true. In fact, if you were to talk to any of my family, they would quickly tell you that I am a fretter. I’m not afraid of things… well maybe snakes. My fears are typically centered in the well-being of my family. I have managed to put guardrails in place to minimize those fears, however they still lurk in the back of my mind. It is at the times when they decide to come to the forefront that I must be more overt and intentional to overcome them. That exercise always begins with my faith. In the next few days, we’ll explore some ways that may as helpful to you as they have been to me.

 

Our reading today describes the meeting between Jacob and Esau. For much of his life, Jacob had tried to act as a person in control, someone who could figure his way out of any hard place. After he successfully navigated his recent awkward encounter with Laban, we might think he would have felt confident in his abilities. But now, as reports suggested that Esau, his brother, was coming to meet him with “400 men” (perhaps an army), Jacob was terrified. What more could he do to save himself? For the first time, we hear him praying the desperate prayer of a man who knows he can do nothing apart from God’s help and power.

 

We often imagine that we have the resources to deal with any problem that might come our way. Perhaps we even say that we depend wholly on God’s power, but we so often live as if our efforts and our knowledge are what really matter. When we face a situation we cannot control, we realize that we cannot rescue ourselves from our deepest fears. We cannot preserve our health. We cannot redeem our reputation. We cannot reconcile our broken relationships. We cannot save ourselves from our sin. We can depend only on the grace and power of God.

 

This is the first step to overcoming your fears. This can bring us to the point of desperate prayer. As powerful as fear is, God’s grace in Christ is far more powerful. Placing yourself in the hands of God, trusting Him for your outcomes, always forces our fears to subside.

 

Begin this little journey by acknowledging God’s promise and power in your life!

 

The New City of God

 

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:1-4 ESV).

 

God doesn’t tell us exactly what his coming kingdom will be like. But God does give us some pictures in the Bible to help us look forward in hope.

 

In Revelation 21, John describes a vision of the new heaven and new earth. He sees the city of Jerusalem coming down out of heaven. In the world as John knew it, the people could go to the temple in Jerusalem to be with God. But in this vision, the city comes down out of heaven to be with the people.

 

John describes the city as “a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.” The city was radiant, looking beautiful for the sake of celebration and love.

 

All of this sounds nice, but the best news comes when John hears what this means. A voice tells him that the coming of this beautiful city means that God will now live with his people. Because of the presence of God, in the new heaven and earth there will be “no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” God will restore his creation to complete wholeness and peace.

 

When you face death or mourning or crying or pain in your life today, take courage. Though these things are very difficult, they are not forever. God will make all things new.

 

Beauty in the Rescue of God

 

But as for me, my prayer is to you, O Lord. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness. Deliver me from sinking in the mire; let me be delivered from my enemies and from the deep waters. Let not the flood sweep over me, or the deep swallow me up, or the pit close its mouth over me. (Psalm 69:13-15 ESV).

 

Imagine being a sailor or part of a fishing crew at the time the biblical psalms were written. The waters are important for your livelihood, but they can also threaten you. The waters of a river, lake, or sea can turn dangerous and chaotic. Stormy waves can be scary, and heavy rains can bring dangerous, destructive flooding. Our reading today uses this imagery to describe troubles and hardship that threaten to turn God’s beauty and order in our lives into chaos. Our own sin and the sins of others can disrupt our lives so much that it can feel like we are drowning.

 

Some of us know from experience what it’s like to deal with flooding or with a storm at sea. And all of us have seen destructive threats to our own lives and in the world around us through broken relationships, addiction, violence, division, and disease.

 

When we are threatened by such chaos, we can cry to God for help. The writer of Psalm 69 prays, “In your great love, O God, answer me with your sure salvation.” God’s salvation is sure indeed, even when we feel afraid. The threatening waters of sin and brokenness will not overwhelm us in the end, because God promises to keep us safe.

 

God has placed a “Lighthouse” in our path. It is Jesus. Make your way to His light! There you will find the beauty of His grace that always rescues us from your storms!

 

Beauty in Everything... Even Me!

 

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I would count them, they are more than the sand. I awake, and I am still with you. (Psalm 139:13-18 ESV).

 

It’s always easy for me to write about the beauty of God’s creation as I did yesterday. However, as I become more microscopic and think about personal beauty… well, that’s a different story altogether. The picture I’ve attached is several years old. I have aged more than I care to admit since then! But even without the aging process, I could not honestly think that the first thought in seeing this photo would be “beauty.” Cancer, Cardio-Vascular Disease, fourteen different surgical procedures (six of them on my heart), broken bones, and an incurable blood disorder all have played a part in what some might call an “ugly” life. However, not one of these things, or anything that has taken place in my journey is ugly in the eyes of God. In fact, all of these were a part of God’s design from the beginning when He “knitted me together… before the foundation of the world” (v. 13).

 

You may ask the question about all those mistakes in the past that also make up my story; or, how about the failed dreams and aspirations as life simply hasn’t turned out the way I had hoped. Even those are in the hands of my gracious, loving Father. And, He has something different to say. In our reading today. God assures all of us that we are “wonderfully made.” God’s creative power was at work not just in forming galaxies at the beginning of time, but also in forming each unique part of us. God made us, individually and collectively beautiful.

 

Further, Psalm 139 assures us that the God who formed us before we were born is still intimately involved in our lives. The God who made us beautiful at the beginning continues to show us grace and to create beauty in us every day. By God’s grace, we are not defined by the successes or failures in our life. We are defined by the love of the God who created us in beauty. While looking in the mirror, I cannot be deceived by that dull image. God is in the process of finishing His work of beauty to be revealed in eternity!

 

The Beauty of the Diversity of God's Creation

 

O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. Here is the sea, great and wide, which teems with creatures innumerable, living things both small and great. (Psalm 104:24-25 ESV).

 

The psalmist uses a particular Hebrew word in our reading today, translated here as “manifold.” The Hebrews word is רָבַב (rahbavh). It is also translated as increase, especially in number; also to multiply by the myriad, or increase, be manifold, be more, and multiply. Thus, we see God’s glory is so diverse as to accurately represent His glory.

 

I am not a “bird-watcher” by any means, although I enjoy watching all the varieties that show up in our yard. I do keep plenty of feed out for them year-round. This year we’ve had three different varieties hatch their brood in various locations in the yard. The list of the types of birds we regularly see is long including birds of prey as well as songbirds. My favorite has been given the name “Beep-Beep.” We’ve seen him running through the neighborhood as well as our yard on many occasions. I’ve captured his picture several times over the years.

 

One of my dear friends is a very accomplished photographer and pursues birds across the nation. I’ve seen some of his work from various parks and other special places. I am amazed at the number of different species of birds that are out there to be seen. This is true across the animal kingdom as well; in fact, scientists say that the number of different types of creatures on the earth is in the millions.

 

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

 

Each of us brings our own type of beauty to the world. Each little brown sparrow sings just a few notes. And God combines with that the huge variety of sounds and other signs of beauty in this world. In all these ways God displays his love for his creation. Let’s praise God for creating a world that is so beautiful and diverse!

 

Beauty

 

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard. Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. (Psalm 19:1-4 ESV).

 

There are those days when I sit down to put words to paper surrounding the thoughts and meditations I’ve had. Today I’m a bit torn. My thoughts don’t seem to be as singularly focused as usual. There is so much happening so quickly in our world. That seems to be true whether we look truly in a global way or more microscopically at our individual lives. These are complex times; however, we must not think there is a complex answer to the questions.

 

While sitting outside early this morning, just after the sunrise, I noticed several Brewer’s Blackbirds flying in and near a clump of trees in the back of our property. As I watched, two paid particular attention to a martin-house I had lowered and not raised for the spring migration. Suddenly I realized that they had some chicks in one of the nesting boxes of the house. They flitted back and forth bringing food to the newborn chicks one after the other. There must be three or more chicks in the nest as they came multiple times with food for their brood. This gave me a singular thought to pursue in the coming days. The simple answer to the complex issues surrounding us is the glory of God. There is purpose and beauty in everything He has created. Recognizing the beauty all around us brings encouragement even in the most trying of circumstances.

 

There are many ways we can see this glory. Our reading today from Psalm 19 shows that we can learn about God’s glory through nature. It says, “The heavens declare the glory of God.” Another way to put it, according to this psalm, is that “the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” This is a strange and poetic picture. Even though the sky doesn’t speak our dialect verbally, there is no doubt to the declaration: “They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them” (v. 3).  And yet the sky, by its simple, beautiful existence, communicates to the world about God, its creator. So it was with the blackbirds this morning!

 

God has created a beautiful world. This world, simply by being what God created it to be, gives voice to the beauty of God himself. This beauty is a mere foretaste of that yet to come for all of us who have placed our faith in Christ. Let’s focus our attention there!

Practising Peace in Life

 

Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test! I hope you will find out that we have not failed the test. But we pray to God that you may not do wrong—not that we may appear to have met the test, but that you may do what is right, though we may seem to have failed. For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth. For we are glad when we are weak and you are strong. Your restoration is what we pray for. For this reason I write these things while I am away from you, that when I come I may not have to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down. Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (2 Corinthians 13:5-14 ESV).

 

Tucked away just around the corner from the Donut Friar (my place) in The Village at Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a little store that features the brand “Life Is Good” (Mary’s place). As you may be able to see in the picture I’ve attached, Mary is shopping for a few new T-shirts from their selection. The Life Is Good Company is an American apparel and accessories wholesaler, retailer, and lifestyle brand founded in 1994 and best known for its optimistic T-shirts and hats, many of which feature a smiling stick figure named Jake and the registered trademark "Life is good."

 

The Life Is Good brand focuses on activities and images reflecting the concept of peaceful living. They use images of hiking, cycling, camping, and other things that are usually associated with good feelings. All of these things can bring temporary feelings of peace. However, as we see from the Apostle Paul in our reading today, he ends with four commands on how the believers should treat one another. Be restored, be encouraged, be of one mind, and be at peace. These are the things that bring peace in our lives.

 

Often, we settle for living with broken relationships. We get frustrated with others and vow to keep them at arm’s length. Sometimes we talk more about someone than to their face. God calls us to strive for full restoration with one another. There may be times when full restoration is not possible. The other party may be unwilling to move toward restoration. In Romans 12:18 Paul writes, “As far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” We are not told that we need to make others live at peace with us. The only behavior we can control is our own.

 

Of course we can make the effort to reconcile relationships rather than let them fall apart. We can make a call, drop a note, or make an effort to talk about the strain in the relationship. Even though others may not reciprocate, at least we will know we have tried. But sometimes we will be surprised by a person’s response. Making an effort to reconcile may bring unanticipated healing. It can be a moment in which everyone experiences God’s grace. Life is good in Christ… live at peace!

 

Peace in the Face of Mortality

 

For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:6-8 ESV).

 

I am often reminded of my mortality. Those reminders come from physical degeneration as well as the glaring truth in aging. Mary and I often talk about various topics surrounding our mortality. When you have lived over three-quarters of a century, facing the inevitability of death is not difficult. This is magnified with the news of our peers who have died. Death is much closer for us than not. That is an inescapable truth. The real question for us is whether we are at peace when we reflect on our own mortality.

 

Though our life with Christ will never end, we know that our journey on this earth is not going to last forever. One day we will stand in our Creator’s presence. In our reading today (cf. 2 Timothy 4:6-8) the apostle Paul reflects on this important moment of his life. His thoughts about the end of his life on earth are filled with stirring emotion and striking imagery. He is honest with us in his sadness, just as he is strong in his Christian hope.

 

As Paul reflects on his years as an apostle of Christ, he uses language from the sports world. Paul says he has successfully finished the race and has observed all the rules—the teachings of Christ. He has kept the faith; and, now he is ready to accept his award—the crown of righteousness.

 

Throughout his ministry Paul has trusted in his Savior. He is doing the same now as he nears the end of his life on earth and looks forward to a new adventure in God’s ­presence. Only by God’s grace can we be faithful, credited with Jesus’ righteousness and crowned to live in his presence forever. Rest in that grace extended to you by your heavenly Father. Death no longer holds any power over us!

 

The Sovereignty of God Brings Peace

 

Come, behold the works of the Lord, how he has brought desolations on the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; the burns the chariots with fire. “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. (Psalm 46:8-11 ESV).

 

In moments of uncertainty and chaos, finding peace in the assurance of God’s sovereignty is a source of strength and comfort. Whatever our life circumstances may be, God is in control, guiding our paths and working out his perfect plans.

 

Our reading today provides one of the many bases in Scripture for being able to trust God in times of difficulty. We are reminded to be still and to acknowledge that the Lord is God. His authority transcends all challenges. He is exalted above every situation. And in this we can find peace.

 

I have experienced the calming presence of God’s sovereignty even in the midst of brokenness, addictions, and sorrow in my own family. In times of turmoil or when facing the unknown, trusting in God’s ultimate control brings a deep sense of peace. Knowing that his purposes prevail and his promises endure gives hope and reassurance.

 

Drawing peace from God’s sovereignty means surrendering our worries, fears, and desires into his capable hands. In faith we can rest in the truth that God works all things together for our good (cf. Romans 8:28). It is the ultimate encouragement to trust that God has got it!

 

As we navigate life’s uncertainties, let’s anchor our hearts in God’s sovereignty. May his peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).

 

Peace that Guards Our Heart

 

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 4:4-7 ESV).

 

The Wisdom of Solomon tells us to guard our hearts: “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life” (Proverbs 4:23 ESV). I have two cardiologists who help me manage my cardiovascular disease. There are all kinds of medications I take along with staying physically active and keeping my weight under control to “guard” my physical heart. However, those practices do not take care of my spiritual heart. The Apostle Paul tells us in our reading today that it is the peace of God that guards our spiritual heart.  

 

Philippians is sometimes called one of Paul’s “prison letters.” That’s because Paul wrote this letter while imprisoned, probably in Rome (cf. Philippians 1:12-14). While the details of Paul’s imprisonment are scant, it probably was similar to what we would call “house arrest” today (cf. Acts 28:16-31). Despite being bound with chains, Paul was able to share the gospel during his two-year imprisonment in Rome.

 

Even though Paul enjoyed some freedom while living under house arrest, he was carefully guarded by a Roman soldier. Paul was probably chained to whoever was responsible for guarding him. That’s helpful to know, because when Paul writes about the peace of God that “guards” our hearts, he uses a word that was common in military jargon. Paul may have been chained to a soldier, but he was also connected to a much higher authority. Paul belonged to God and was protected by the peace of God.

 

God gives his people that same peace to today. That’s why so many believers feel protected and at ease in situations that would otherwise make them feel worried and discouraged. If you are feeling anxious and afraid today seek the peace of Jesus (cf. John 14:27). He cares for you and wants you to have peace. He wants your heart ot be guarded carefully!

 

Peace

 

[Jesus said] “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place you may believe.” (John 14:27-29 ESV).

 

“Shalom!” When Mary and I first visited Israel many years ago, “shalom” was one of the first words we came to use. "Shalom" is a Hebrew word that primarily means peace, but it also commonly serves as a greeting, like "hello" or "goodbye". Beyond simple greetings, however, "shalom" encapsulates a deeper sense of wholeness, well-being, and completeness. It can refer to peace between individuals, groups, or nations, as well as to the personal well-being and prosperity of an individual.

 

For most people that peace requires a place as much as a change in circumstance. Some prefer the warm sandy beaches with the sea breeze blowing in gently from the ocean and the sound of the ever ebb and flow of the waves. Others, like myself, prefer the mountains with the majestic views of the peaks and valleys on the horizon and cooler air wafting in on a slight breeze. However you best experience “peace” there is only one constant source of such emotion.

 

So, today we’ll begin to consider real “shalom.” While “peace” often refers to an absence of conflict, shalom suggests the presence of goodness, flourishing, right relationships, and all things being as God created them to be. Shalom points to all things living in line with their character so that they can fully achieve God’s intentions for them. Living in right relationship is essential for human flourishing—right relationship with God, with others, with self, and with God’s creation. That’s what God intended. Yet because of human sin and rebellion, those relations are twisted and spoiled. Poverty and all its limitations are the result of relationships gone wrong. Even so, God’s great work of love is to free us and his creation from the bondage of sin and to restore shalom.

 

Jesus is the only complete solution. He is at the heart of God’s work of love. Begin with your complete commitment to Him today!

 

Faith When You Don't See

 

[Jesus said] “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’” (Matthew 25:31-40 ESV).

 

There are many of these “optical illusions” of Jesus that have been developed through the years. The one I’ve pictured here is a creation of Oakwood Hill Creations. I hope it was not too much of a puzzle for you to see the name of “Jesus,” though some folks look at it and can’t see anything but some blocks of wood glued to a larger block. They see nothing meaningful in this block of wood. Others look at it, and their faces brighten as they “get it.” The little pieces are arranged in such a way that they spell “JESUS.” But you can see the name only if you look at the block a certain way. It reminds me that Jesus can be with us even when we don’t see him.

 

There are many times when it is difficult to see Jesus. It is particularly important to rely on our faith during challenging periods rather than only in easy times. This is certainly what Jesus meant with the parable in our reading today. Often, we see people in need and deny them help for various reasons. Jesus is saying that giving help to the needy is not dependent on their worthiness, but our faith. Afte all, are any of us worthy?

 

I hope you are willing to look in such a way that you can see Jesus when someone asks for help. He is there!

 

Take a Walk with Me - Pt. 10

 

And they were on the road, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them. And they were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. And taking the twelve again, he began to tell them what was to happen to him, saying, “See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death and deliver him over to the Gentiles. And they will mock him and spit on him, and flog him and kill him. And after three days he will rise.” (Mark 10:32-24 ESV).

 

Clingmans Dome (picture attached) is now known as Kuwohi. Kuwohi, is the Cherokee name for the mountain and translates to “mulberry place.” Kuwohi is a sacred place for the Cherokee people and is the highest point within the traditional Cherokee homeland. Kuwohi is visible from the Qualla Boundary. At 6,643 feet above sea level, Kuwohi is Great Smoky Mountains National Park's highest point. It is the highest point in Tennessee, and the second highest point east of the Mississippi. Only North Carolina's Mt. Mitchell (6,684 feet) rises higher. The Dome is a popular Park destination. Located along the state-line ridge, it is half in North Carolina and half in Tennessee. The peak is accessible after driving Clingmans Dome Road from Newfound Gap, and then walking a steep half-mile trail. I have made that hike a few times when I was much younger. It is also a part of the Appalachian Trail as it crosses Kuwohi, marking the highest point along its 2,144 mile journey.

 

Perhaps the most memorable hike was when Kyle and David were very young. In fact, Aaron had not been born as yet. Kyle had an accident and fractured his ankle and thus had a cast. David was in a stroller. We hadn’t made it very far up the inclined trailway when it became apparent that Kyle needed to ride in the stroller and I needed to carry David. Pushing the stroller and carrying David made for a very challenging hike. I kept my eyes fixed ahead and trudged up the trail, arriving somewhat winded, but very pleased! I was reminded how similar that practice is in our life journey. There are those times when the path is steep and the burden is heavy. Keeping our eyes on the destination gives us strength to finish well.

 

Our reading today shows how this was true for Jesus as well. Though Jesus meandered through Galilee and Judea during his ministry, he had one final, unshakable destination in mind, and it was deadly. When he told his disciples he was going to Jerusalem, they were astonished. They knew only too well the ugly jealousy and hatred that the religious leaders had for Jesus. They feared for his life, not to mention their own. Though he had told them about this before, Jesus’ disciples hadn’t grasped the purpose of his mission. He was going to fulfill the Scriptures’ promise of a suffering servant, who would take the sins of fallen humanity on his shoulders (Isaiah 52:13-53:12). He went to Jerusalem to die on a cross there—in order to give us new life and eternal hope. Thank God that he didn’t quit! Keep your eyes on that destination, especially when the way is hard!

Take a Walk with Me - Pt. 9

 

Then Job answered and said: “Truly I know that it is so: But how can a man be zin the right before God? If one wished to contend with him, one could not answer him once in a thousand times. He is wise in heart and mighty in strength— who has hardened himself against him, and succeeded?— he who removes mountains, and they know it not, when he overturns them in his anger, who shakes the earth out of its place, and its pillars tremble; who commands the sun, and it does not rise; who seals up the stars; who alone stretched out the heavens and trampled the waves of the sea; who made the Bear and Orion, the Pleiades and the chambers of the south; who does great things beyond searching out, and marvelous things beyond number. Behold, he passes by me, and I see him not; he moves on, but I do not perceive him. Behold, he snatches away; who can turn him back? Who will say to him, ‘What are you doing?’” (Job 9:1-12 ESV).

 

With today’s attachment I have moved away from my beloved Smoky Mountains to Yellowstone National Park. Some years ago Mary and I, along with Mark and Susie Mincey, visited Yellowstone. In fact, we were able to stay in the area for a week taking our time to see as much of it as possible. One evening at sunset I looked to the west from the patio of the cabin where we were staying and was awestruck by the colors of the sky with the mountains in the foreground. The picture does not do it justice. There were many other sights that were inspiring. From the eruption of Old Faithful to the herds of Bison roaming across the valleys near the Lamar River, I was reminded of the creative genius and power of our God.

 

That thought brought me to a better understanding of how destructive is can be to forget who God is in favor of thinking we are somehow comparable. This is the pride that Proverbs warns “goes . . . before a fall.” In our reading today, Job finally comes to the same conclusion. Pride is a vision problem that we all struggle with. In our pride, we fail to see our true place in God’s scheme of things. The Bible condemns pride as the very cause of humanity’s rebellion and its deadly consequences. Forgetting that we are creatures, we reject God’s design for our lives. Thinking that we are superior, we nurture contempt for others.

 

Humility is the antidote to pride. True humility means clearly seeing our place in relation to God and the world he has made; it means treating God as God, and treating ourselves and others as his beloved creatures. That’s how God wants us to walk with him—treating everyone with due dignity and grace. Take that walk with me!

 

Take a Walk with Me - Pt. 8

 

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).

 

Springtime in the Smokies can swell the rivers with water from runoffs originating higher in the mountains. This picture was taken in along the Chattahoochee River on the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky National Park. I was walking along the edge trying to get a picture of a bull elk I had seen making his way ahead of me. I had seen him cross the river ahead and thought I could get to a clear spot quick enough. Obviously, that didn’t happen; and fortunately, my brain engaged and kept me from trying to cross. Wading through moving water can be dangerous.

 

Some “rushing rivers” can’t be avoided though. In our reading from Isaiah, God assures his people of his presence and protection. When the challenges and crises of life stand in their way like a rushing river, says the Lord, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Using the imagery of surging waters and raging fire, God promises that his people will not be overwhelmed. Later in this chapter, God recounts how he kept Israel safe from the deep waters and the army of Pharaoh when they crossed the Red Sea (cf. Exodus 14). God also promises to protect his people from the surging destruction of their own sins. He promises to blot those sins out and to remember them no more.

 

God, who created us and knows our weaknesses, promises to love us and protect us from dangers both outside and within our own hearts. We see God’s faithfulness to his people and, above all, in his Son, Jesus, who fulfills all of God’s promises.

 

Take a Walk with Me - Pt. 7

 

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. (Psalm 23:1-6 ESV).

 

Continuing in our “Take a Walk with Me” series brings me to one of the most beloved psalms of the Scripture. It has been read at innumerous gravesites as a means of comfort for those who are experiencing one of the darkest and most difficult times of their lives. When David says, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (v. 4), he certainly had this kind of experience in mind. However, God comforts us in many other experiences as well as grief. I’ve chosen a story that is humorous now, though frightening at the time.

 

The picture I’ve attached was taken in Cades Cove, Tennessee. It is not unusual to see black bears as they move freely through this “wild” area. This bear had decided to climb a tree just off the road that loops its way around the cove. Of course, I had to attempt to get a photo. My camera is not equipped with special lenses. This “close-up” is taken from the base of the tree. Even though Mary cautioned me not to get out of the car, I had to get closer for the picture. There were some others who had done the same, so, I reasoned I was relatively safe. After taking several shots, this pose filled the screen and I snapped it. Proudly thinking how well I had done, I noticed the bear had decided to come down from the tree. Perhaps it was annoyed at the attention it was receiving from the crowd that had gathered, or maybe it simply wanted to go to another place. I couldn’t back up quickly enough! Making it back to the car, Mary simply said, “I tried to warn you.” Well, she did… I suppose there are times when God protects us even when we are not very smart!

 

In Psalm 23, God promises to protect his people in the many challenging, difficult circumstances of life. Chief among the promises here is the assurance of God’s presence. God promises to walk with us through green pastures and along babbling brooks when life’s pathways are clear and smooth. God also promises to be with us through thorny stretches, and even through “the darkest valley,” where we may face “the shadow of death,” as some translations put it. Those are paths that we tremble even to think about. He promises, “I am with you.” This means that wherever we walk, and in whatever circumstances we find ourselves, we are never alone.

 

Psalm 23 doesn’t promise that our lives will be easy or even safe. But with the promise of God’s enduring presence in our lives, we can walk boldly with him as we seek to serve him wherever we are.

 

Take a Walk with Me - Pt. 6

 

The Lord said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him, “Lift up your eyes and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward, for all the land that you see I will give to you and to your offspring forever. I will make your offspring as the dust of the earth, so that if one can count the dust of the earth, your offspring also can be counted. Arise, walk through the length and the breadth of the land, for I will give it to you.” So Abram moved his tent and came and settled by the oaks of Mamre, which are at Hebron, and there he built an altar to the Lord. (Genesis 13:14-18 ESV).

 

Some of the most beautiful sights I have seen in the Smokies were almost accidentally captured with a short walk on a path leading away from one of the many overlooks along the road. Today’s picture was taken at such a spot. Mary and I were riding through the Roaring Fork Motor Trail when the attached picture was taken off the parking area. We had climbed nearly to the halfway point of the motor trail, seeing an overlook space available, I pulled in to just look. Walking around the area I saw a footpath leading up to a higher vantage point. It was not far, so I climbed up and reached the end to be rewarded with this magnificent view. It seemed as if the mountains stretched on forever!

 

Our reading today is the end of the story that begins with how God had brought Abram (whom he later renamed Abraham) and his household on a long journey from Harran (in present-day Turkey) to the land of Canaan (present-day Israel). God had made promises, and Abraham had trusted God, taking him at his word (Genesis 12:1-7). As we can see in today’s reading, God promised to give Abraham all of the land that he could see around him in Canaan. And God said, “Go, walk through the length and the breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you.” God promised to bless Abraham and his descendants there, and Abraham settled in that land and worshiped the Lord.

 

God might not call us to journey on foot, but he does call each of us to follow him in faith and faithfulness. At the end of our journey we will receive all the creation God has prepared for us. There will not be an end to it. It is eternal, without limits. I’m always a bit amazed that I spend so much of my journey looking down at my steps that I miss the vista ahead. Never doubt that through Jesus, God keeps his promises to us. Heaven is ahead!