Matthew 6:7-8 “And in praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
I can remember so many times when I just babbled at God. I spent my prayer time going through my life and my relationships with friends and family and telling God all about the things I needed or the things my friends or family needed. I had this idea that telling God what I needed was essential and that once I told God he would respond. I must admit that because he knew I didn't understand yet, I did get some of my babblings met. It was as though I really thought God did not know what was happening in my life or what I needed. More than that it was clearly as if I didn't trust he would get it right without my help.
I don't think this stopped God from doing great things in my life otherwise I would still be stuck in that place. I say stuck, because in reality, trying to tell God what he should do and how to solve the issues in my life, left me with all the same anxieties I had when attempting to deal with things on my own. It seems as we've gone through our preaching series on the beatitudes, we have come to understand that these powerful changes in character are only possible by God's doing. The Holy Spirit working in us changes our character and builds trust in God.
Most of the time now I don't seek for God to orchestrate my plan, I trust that he will guide me to my best plan and will open doors for His purpose to be completed. No matter what has happened over these later years I know he is working for my good, I have seen his hand so often in my life.
My relationship with Marsha as out marriage grew provided a similar security. I trusted her love for me even when she was upset with me. She worked for my best at all times, even when I didn't want her to. I hope she knew or knows that I did the same for her.
God wants us to have a relationship with him through Jesus that will create this life of trust free of anxiety and fear. A life filled with peace and inner contentment. A life with a deep assurance that God's got my back and eternity is secure. No more babbling, just trust.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
So Much Promise
John 12:4-6 But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was to betray him), said, 5“Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” This he said, not that he cared for the poor but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box, he used to take what was put into it.
I often wonder if Judas was picked for his betrayal of Jesus. If that were true however would Jesus have entrusted wit the groups money. I know the Father told him about Judas as the last events were about to take place, but what did he know before that. Why would you allow a thief to handle the money? Makes no sense to me. I think Judas was someone who Jesus knew had great potential. I'm sure he was an enthusiastic disciple and follower to be picked as one of the twelve. He must have shown some serious leadership skills or charismatic attributes in order to be made such a leader.
We are all unique creations. God has a purpose for each and every one of us, and we are exactly fitted to the tasks he has for us. He must add the internal fruit of the Spirit and the external Gifts of the Spirit in order for our unique self to be able to completely fulfill his plan. Jesus entrusted me with a family and two vocations that can have a real influence on people. At times I think I have honored what he has given me, while at other times I feel like I have failed to be the man he expects me to be. In a way that too is a betrayal of Jesus.
I wonder how much promise God thought I had if I placed my life in His hands? I wonder, when I meet him, if he will look in my eyes and say, "You had so much promise." I can feel that he does not condemn me, but I don't want to disappoint my Lord either. How about you? You do know that God made you with great promise as well. As Fr. Ron might say, "How's that working out for you?"
I often wonder if Judas was picked for his betrayal of Jesus. If that were true however would Jesus have entrusted wit the groups money. I know the Father told him about Judas as the last events were about to take place, but what did he know before that. Why would you allow a thief to handle the money? Makes no sense to me. I think Judas was someone who Jesus knew had great potential. I'm sure he was an enthusiastic disciple and follower to be picked as one of the twelve. He must have shown some serious leadership skills or charismatic attributes in order to be made such a leader.
We are all unique creations. God has a purpose for each and every one of us, and we are exactly fitted to the tasks he has for us. He must add the internal fruit of the Spirit and the external Gifts of the Spirit in order for our unique self to be able to completely fulfill his plan. Jesus entrusted me with a family and two vocations that can have a real influence on people. At times I think I have honored what he has given me, while at other times I feel like I have failed to be the man he expects me to be. In a way that too is a betrayal of Jesus.
I wonder how much promise God thought I had if I placed my life in His hands? I wonder, when I meet him, if he will look in my eyes and say, "You had so much promise." I can feel that he does not condemn me, but I don't want to disappoint my Lord either. How about you? You do know that God made you with great promise as well. As Fr. Ron might say, "How's that working out for you?"
Friday, February 25, 2011
Is It Too Much?
Matthew 5:38-40 You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist one who isevil. But if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; and if any one would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well; and if any one forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to him who begs from you, and do not refuse him who would borrow from you.
Here we go with the really tough stuff of Jesus teaching. It was accepted that you could repay someone with an equal force something that had been done to you. Families could respond to the murder of a family member by murdering the murderer. Jesus says no revenge rather turn the other cheek, or in other words let it happen again.
All of the examples in this section of Jesus teaching demand that you go over and above what was expected in his society. We would argue I'm sure that it sounds too much like asking people who are victims of abuse to continue being victims of abuse. The last two examples deal with generosity not abuse, and Jesus always calls for excess in generosity, but the first which does deal with abuse calls us to forsake revenge even when we are abused.
People often claim that pacifism does not work. They imply that the only way to stop a bully is to bully back. In history many who would promote a pacifist response have been ridiculed for their appeasement of the bullies. Jesus however changed the whole world in the end by his practice of pacifism. In the moment it looked like defeat but in the end he was the victor. Gandhi certainly is another example of winning with pacifism changing a whole country and led to the independence for his nation.
We need to realize that Jesus does not say anything that God does not wants him to say. We cannot dismiss these teachings simple because they do not fit our picture frame. Truth is truth whether we want to or not.
Here we go with the really tough stuff of Jesus teaching. It was accepted that you could repay someone with an equal force something that had been done to you. Families could respond to the murder of a family member by murdering the murderer. Jesus says no revenge rather turn the other cheek, or in other words let it happen again.
All of the examples in this section of Jesus teaching demand that you go over and above what was expected in his society. We would argue I'm sure that it sounds too much like asking people who are victims of abuse to continue being victims of abuse. The last two examples deal with generosity not abuse, and Jesus always calls for excess in generosity, but the first which does deal with abuse calls us to forsake revenge even when we are abused.
People often claim that pacifism does not work. They imply that the only way to stop a bully is to bully back. In history many who would promote a pacifist response have been ridiculed for their appeasement of the bullies. Jesus however changed the whole world in the end by his practice of pacifism. In the moment it looked like defeat but in the end he was the victor. Gandhi certainly is another example of winning with pacifism changing a whole country and led to the independence for his nation.
We need to realize that Jesus does not say anything that God does not wants him to say. We cannot dismiss these teachings simple because they do not fit our picture frame. Truth is truth whether we want to or not.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
I Swear I'll Be Good
Matthew 5:33-37 “Again you have heard that it was said to the men of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.
My remembrance of my youth and that of my brothers was of frequently saying to my mother, "I swear I'll be good." Even with Marsha I could be found to say I promise one thing or another, kind of like an oath. In court witnesses always had the swear on the Bible a vow to, "Swear to speak the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help me God."
I do like the idea that our yes should be yes and our no should be no and that is that. If I've lived in such a way that my word is my word than I shouldn't need to add power to any statement by some kind of oath. People should be prepared to take my yes as yes and my no as no because experience tells them they can count on it.
Marsha used to ask me how she looked. I'd say "You look nice honey." Her response, "Oh your just saying that." I have been bothered by the fact that at times people want us to make a promise or swear to something not because they have reason to doubt us, but rather that they have been taught not to trust the word of others. It is as if I have been labeled a liar because other people are liars. What a great world it would be if we could trust what other people said.
Well then let your yes be yes and your no be no!!
My remembrance of my youth and that of my brothers was of frequently saying to my mother, "I swear I'll be good." Even with Marsha I could be found to say I promise one thing or another, kind of like an oath. In court witnesses always had the swear on the Bible a vow to, "Swear to speak the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help me God."
I do like the idea that our yes should be yes and our no should be no and that is that. If I've lived in such a way that my word is my word than I shouldn't need to add power to any statement by some kind of oath. People should be prepared to take my yes as yes and my no as no because experience tells them they can count on it.
Marsha used to ask me how she looked. I'd say "You look nice honey." Her response, "Oh your just saying that." I have been bothered by the fact that at times people want us to make a promise or swear to something not because they have reason to doubt us, but rather that they have been taught not to trust the word of others. It is as if I have been labeled a liar because other people are liars. What a great world it would be if we could trust what other people said.
Well then let your yes be yes and your no be no!!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
New & Improved
Matthew 5:21-24 You have heard that it was said to the men of old, ‘You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother shall be liable to the council, and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be liable to the hell of fire. So if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
I love the way Jesus fills the commandments with deeper more challenging meaning. Angry with a brother or sister seems like the way of life. Calling someone a fool, not quite so common but never the less frequent. I think Jesus is using his own way of saying what St. Paul wrote when he wrote, "All sin and fall short of the glory of God." We are all subject to judgment seems to be the message. It also seems that we need to be careful about holding on to ager or harboring resentments or keeping an attitude that others are fools. Repentance before we come to seek God's blessing is the rule of the day.
So often we hold onto hurts and resentments. We fester inside carrying burdens from neglect, abuse, and rejections. We think that our strong grip on our angers are only fair. The ones who hurt us owe us that much at least. We think our leasing the anger would be a gift to the one who harmed us, but really it is the opposite. Our resentments only hurt our hearts and lives. The accumulation keeps us from being open to others, either to accept love or to trust people.
What if God acted like that? What hope would we have if God demanded a pound of flesh for all our sins?
I love the way Jesus fills the commandments with deeper more challenging meaning. Angry with a brother or sister seems like the way of life. Calling someone a fool, not quite so common but never the less frequent. I think Jesus is using his own way of saying what St. Paul wrote when he wrote, "All sin and fall short of the glory of God." We are all subject to judgment seems to be the message. It also seems that we need to be careful about holding on to ager or harboring resentments or keeping an attitude that others are fools. Repentance before we come to seek God's blessing is the rule of the day.
So often we hold onto hurts and resentments. We fester inside carrying burdens from neglect, abuse, and rejections. We think that our strong grip on our angers are only fair. The ones who hurt us owe us that much at least. We think our leasing the anger would be a gift to the one who harmed us, but really it is the opposite. Our resentments only hurt our hearts and lives. The accumulation keeps us from being open to others, either to accept love or to trust people.
What if God acted like that? What hope would we have if God demanded a pound of flesh for all our sins?
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Shining
Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
One of the questions that comes to mind frequently has to do with letting our light shine. I've always believed that if we truly had the light of Christ in us and shining through us, the church would be so attractive that we could not contain the growth. We would be the city on a hill. Nothing would be able to hide us from the world. Again and again the New Testament declares that we need to walk in the light. Jesus entered the world as light and the continuing witness is that the darkness cannot overcome it.
I spent some time this weekend with my brother and some of his family. During conversations my past behavior came up a couple of times. My brother had a friend with him who thought he could get some juicy stories about my brother as a kid. Instead my behavior became the topic, because in deed he was the good son and I was the rebel. Amidst the discussion however was the recognition that I have changed. I take no credit for this, because I know it was Christ that changed me. The discussion made it clear that I have a different effect on people than I did before. I'd like to think that is the light of Christ in me.
I might be a dim light, but I'm trying to become brighter. I can see the lights going on in the church as people learn to depend on Christ, be filled with the Spirit, and reach out to one another an the world. Perhaps we can become the city on a hill, a light that can't be hidden, and a shining channel of the light of Christ.
One of the questions that comes to mind frequently has to do with letting our light shine. I've always believed that if we truly had the light of Christ in us and shining through us, the church would be so attractive that we could not contain the growth. We would be the city on a hill. Nothing would be able to hide us from the world. Again and again the New Testament declares that we need to walk in the light. Jesus entered the world as light and the continuing witness is that the darkness cannot overcome it.
I spent some time this weekend with my brother and some of his family. During conversations my past behavior came up a couple of times. My brother had a friend with him who thought he could get some juicy stories about my brother as a kid. Instead my behavior became the topic, because in deed he was the good son and I was the rebel. Amidst the discussion however was the recognition that I have changed. I take no credit for this, because I know it was Christ that changed me. The discussion made it clear that I have a different effect on people than I did before. I'd like to think that is the light of Christ in me.
I might be a dim light, but I'm trying to become brighter. I can see the lights going on in the church as people learn to depend on Christ, be filled with the Spirit, and reach out to one another an the world. Perhaps we can become the city on a hill, a light that can't be hidden, and a shining channel of the light of Christ.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Teaching
Matthew 5:1-3 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when hesat down his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouthand taught them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom ofheaven.
Have you ever looked at history and found events that you just wish you were there. I can imagine the amount of energy both of dreams and fears that must have filled the room as those American founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence. I would love to have been present when Newton had that breakthrough moment when the apple fell from the tree. To pick the minds of those brilliant people who led us into the future. I would love to have been at the Lincoln Memorial to hear the "I Had A Dream" speech in person. I still cry every time I listen to it. I could go on and on and pick a wide variety of events that would be priceless.
I would have to say the my number one however would be to have been sitting on a hill listen to Jesus teach the most extraordinary thoughts and principles to those who would listen. I can just imagine being transfixed by his eyes and the gentleness of his words. I can see myself being challenged and confused by the words that would challenge my ethical understanding and demand a deeper relationship with God.
I wasn't there, but his words live on and they continue to bless and challenge me. We have been preaching individually through the beatitudes during this Epiphany season. It has been another powerful look at those profound words. Yes I would have loved to be on that hill, but the impact of that moment was not limited to a single moment in history. Like the other events, and even more spectacular than the others the events, this one is still alive.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Other Sheep
John 10:16-18 And I have other sheep, that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will heed my voice. So there shall be one flock, one shepherd. For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life, that I may take it again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again; this charge I have received from my Father.”
Jesus chose to open the sheep gate to a whole different flock. Most people remember in Israel thought the messiah was to come for the re-establishment of the Kingdom of Israel as it existed under the great King David. They ignored the passages written by the prophets pointing to one that would be a light to the nations. Jesus came to institute a new world order. The chosen people were no longer a governmental nation, but a spiritual nation which would include every tribe and race.
This flock was not to be established by obtaining a bigger farm or hiring more shepherds. Jesus would change the definition of God's chosen people forever through his death on the cross and resurrection. The Son of God who could call legions of angels to his side, chose to lay down his life as a means of reconciling humanity to an open relationship with God.
It must be clear that Jesus was not trapped into some unfair human sacrifice, but rather that Jesus came to become a man, and after teaching us about the love of God and showing God's power he willingly finished his purpose of reconciliation. After he defeated death, he took up his life again to begin the rapid expansion of God's family. I'm filled with gratitude that through Jesus I have been included in God's family. If he wants to call me part of the other sheep, I'll take it. This participation in Jesus is my greatest blessing.
Jesus chose to open the sheep gate to a whole different flock. Most people remember in Israel thought the messiah was to come for the re-establishment of the Kingdom of Israel as it existed under the great King David. They ignored the passages written by the prophets pointing to one that would be a light to the nations. Jesus came to institute a new world order. The chosen people were no longer a governmental nation, but a spiritual nation which would include every tribe and race.
This flock was not to be established by obtaining a bigger farm or hiring more shepherds. Jesus would change the definition of God's chosen people forever through his death on the cross and resurrection. The Son of God who could call legions of angels to his side, chose to lay down his life as a means of reconciling humanity to an open relationship with God.
It must be clear that Jesus was not trapped into some unfair human sacrifice, but rather that Jesus came to become a man, and after teaching us about the love of God and showing God's power he willingly finished his purpose of reconciliation. After he defeated death, he took up his life again to begin the rapid expansion of God's family. I'm filled with gratitude that through Jesus I have been included in God's family. If he wants to call me part of the other sheep, I'll take it. This participation in Jesus is my greatest blessing.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
All She Had
Mark 12:41-45 And he sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the multitude putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came, and put in two copper coins, which make a penny. And he called his disciples to him,and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For they all contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, her whole living.”
Much has been made of the poor widow and the two copper coins, and I don't want to minimize the message. I wonder however what it is that I give so little of from my abundance. I know the stories in the gospel have more meaning than the obvious. It is easy to put a monetary limit on the nature of this story. I think however that we hold back and limit what we offer God in more arenas than money.
Some of you know I get hooked into a train of thought and it often takes me time to work it through. This week it has been the place between God and the world, and became stuck in my head through the Casting Crown lyric "caught in the middle". I know I have found excuses for what I hold back from God. Family things, time things, emotional things; things God needs from me, things God wants to restore in me, and other areas perhaps as well.
I think I'm clear after some wrestling with this during this week, and that is that I don't want to accept that I give enough of the all the things that matter, and that I won't be complacent where I'm caught in the middle. Another part of that song questions if we will "trade our dreams for God's". I think God's dreams are where to place my focus and all I have that can help reach them. Then I might be worthy of company with the poor widow.
Much has been made of the poor widow and the two copper coins, and I don't want to minimize the message. I wonder however what it is that I give so little of from my abundance. I know the stories in the gospel have more meaning than the obvious. It is easy to put a monetary limit on the nature of this story. I think however that we hold back and limit what we offer God in more arenas than money.
Some of you know I get hooked into a train of thought and it often takes me time to work it through. This week it has been the place between God and the world, and became stuck in my head through the Casting Crown lyric "caught in the middle". I know I have found excuses for what I hold back from God. Family things, time things, emotional things; things God needs from me, things God wants to restore in me, and other areas perhaps as well.
I think I'm clear after some wrestling with this during this week, and that is that I don't want to accept that I give enough of the all the things that matter, and that I won't be complacent where I'm caught in the middle. Another part of that song questions if we will "trade our dreams for God's". I think God's dreams are where to place my focus and all I have that can help reach them. Then I might be worthy of company with the poor widow.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Correction
Mark 12:32-33 And the scribe said to him, “You are right, Teacher; you havetruly said that he is one, and there is no other but he; and tolove him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, andwith all the strength, and to love one’s neighbor as oneself, ismuch more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”
Can you imagine the nerve of this guy. He comes up to the one that everyone has been following, the rock star of his time and not only questions him but has the audacity to tell him he gave a correct answer. Can you imagine telling God that he got something right or wrong. Well maybe I can imagine it come to think of it. Haven't you ever thought, "Gee God you couldn't really mean that, could you?" I've caught myself many times second guessing God and I know there must be lots of other times I didn't even notice.
One of the issues of humanity is that we have trouble giving up wanting to be God. If only I was in charge, certainly things would be different. I loved the movie "Bruce Almighty". Marsha couldn't stand Jim Carey but I liked a few things he did. Bruce Almighty is God turning over control to Bruce. It was funny and yet filled with satirical truth. We all like the idea of having life our way, but what a mess we would make if it were so. I spent years as a teacher correcting everyone else's work, but I think I'll try to leave God's stuff alone.
Can you imagine the nerve of this guy. He comes up to the one that everyone has been following, the rock star of his time and not only questions him but has the audacity to tell him he gave a correct answer. Can you imagine telling God that he got something right or wrong. Well maybe I can imagine it come to think of it. Haven't you ever thought, "Gee God you couldn't really mean that, could you?" I've caught myself many times second guessing God and I know there must be lots of other times I didn't even notice.
One of the issues of humanity is that we have trouble giving up wanting to be God. If only I was in charge, certainly things would be different. I loved the movie "Bruce Almighty". Marsha couldn't stand Jim Carey but I liked a few things he did. Bruce Almighty is God turning over control to Bruce. It was funny and yet filled with satirical truth. We all like the idea of having life our way, but what a mess we would make if it were so. I spent years as a teacher correcting everyone else's work, but I think I'll try to leave God's stuff alone.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Give What To Who?
Mark 12:14-15 “Teacher, we know that you are true, and care for no man; for you do not regard the position of men, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? Should we pay them, or should we not?”
I think many people spend an inordinate amount of time living back and forth between two worlds. I wrote in my last blog about being caught in the middle, but frequently I think we don't even see our shifting from one to the other. Jesus teaches us in many places not to get confused. He says,"You cannot serve both God and money." He says, "Store up for yourselves treasure in heaven where moth and rust cannot destroy, or thieves break in and steal."
Life moves so fast as we just try to do what it seems mimics what society requires. I find few people who find opportunities to think about life and why they even do what they do. The goals and values seem so common even if the details are different. I'm not just talking about secular society, I see the same thing in the lives of believers.
Jesus tells us that it is not wise to begin something unless we count the cost. We must do the same with our spiritual journey as we would to buy a home or a car. We would take time to study and reflect on important worldly choices but rairly spend the same effort reflecting about God. So maybe we give too much to Caesar and little to our Lord, and I don't mean money. God made everything that is and could print all the money he wanted if that was his plan and purpose. No he doesn't need your money or anything else, but he desires your love and attention for your own good.
I think many people spend an inordinate amount of time living back and forth between two worlds. I wrote in my last blog about being caught in the middle, but frequently I think we don't even see our shifting from one to the other. Jesus teaches us in many places not to get confused. He says,"You cannot serve both God and money." He says, "Store up for yourselves treasure in heaven where moth and rust cannot destroy, or thieves break in and steal."
Life moves so fast as we just try to do what it seems mimics what society requires. I find few people who find opportunities to think about life and why they even do what they do. The goals and values seem so common even if the details are different. I'm not just talking about secular society, I see the same thing in the lives of believers.
Jesus tells us that it is not wise to begin something unless we count the cost. We must do the same with our spiritual journey as we would to buy a home or a car. We would take time to study and reflect on important worldly choices but rairly spend the same effort reflecting about God. So maybe we give too much to Caesar and little to our Lord, and I don't mean money. God made everything that is and could print all the money he wanted if that was his plan and purpose. No he doesn't need your money or anything else, but he desires your love and attention for your own good.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Authority
Mark 28: 27-28 The chief priests and the scribes and the elders came to him, and they said to him, “By what authority are you doing these things, or who gave you this authority to do them?”
We live in a society that wants to question the very existence of God. Many who might say there is a God would say he has no authority over them. They view God as a distant observer if God is involved at all. The more important question is how much authority do you give to Jesus. The men questioning Jesus were the religious leaders of his time, but they did not recognize the authority of God working through Jesus even given all the signs and wonders. Do you as a Christian give Jesus authority over your life.
I love a song by "Casting Crowns" with the following words.
Somewhere between the hot and the cold,
somewhere between the new and the old ,
Somewhere between who I am and who I used to be,
Somewhere in the middle you'll find me.
Somewhere between the wrong and the right,
Somewhere between the darkness and the light,
Somewhere between who I was and who your making me,
Somewhere in the middle you'll find me.
Just how close can I get Lord to my surrender,
Without losing all control,
Fearless warrior in a picket fence,
Reckless abandon wrapped in common sense,
Deep water faith in the shallow end,
And we are caught in the middle
With eyes wide open to the differences,
The God we want and the God who is,
Will we trade our dreams for His,
Or are we caught in the middle.
Jesus wants complete authority in our lives or we bounce from his will to ours and wonder why it doesn't work. Are we just caught in the middle re-capturing control every time we face anxiety or fear? The God who wants to change the world through you can't do much with a caught in the middle life. Are we really much different than those religious leaders in Jesus day? Aren't you asking the same question by the daily choices you make? Who does have ultimate authority in your life?
We live in a society that wants to question the very existence of God. Many who might say there is a God would say he has no authority over them. They view God as a distant observer if God is involved at all. The more important question is how much authority do you give to Jesus. The men questioning Jesus were the religious leaders of his time, but they did not recognize the authority of God working through Jesus even given all the signs and wonders. Do you as a Christian give Jesus authority over your life.
I love a song by "Casting Crowns" with the following words.
Somewhere between the hot and the cold,
somewhere between the new and the old ,
Somewhere between who I am and who I used to be,
Somewhere in the middle you'll find me.
Somewhere between the wrong and the right,
Somewhere between the darkness and the light,
Somewhere between who I was and who your making me,
Somewhere in the middle you'll find me.
Just how close can I get Lord to my surrender,
Without losing all control,
Fearless warrior in a picket fence,
Reckless abandon wrapped in common sense,
Deep water faith in the shallow end,
And we are caught in the middle
With eyes wide open to the differences,
The God we want and the God who is,
Will we trade our dreams for His,
Or are we caught in the middle.
Jesus wants complete authority in our lives or we bounce from his will to ours and wonder why it doesn't work. Are we just caught in the middle re-capturing control every time we face anxiety or fear? The God who wants to change the world through you can't do much with a caught in the middle life. Are we really much different than those religious leaders in Jesus day? Aren't you asking the same question by the daily choices you make? Who does have ultimate authority in your life?
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Money & The Temple
Mark 11:15-18 And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons; and he would not allow any one to carry anything through the temple. And he taught, and said to them, “Is it not written, ‘My house shall be called ahouse of prayer for all the nations’? But you have made it a denof robbers.” And the chief priests and the scribes heard it andsought a way to destroy him; for they feared him, because all the multitude was astonished at his teaching. And when evening came they went out of the city.
As we look at the gospels we see the many issues Jesus had with the clerical leadership of Israel. He calls them hypocrites and blind guides. He then hits them where they would hurt the most. The had a monopoly on the exchange of cash from Roman to temple coin for a price. They controlled the sale of animals for sacrifice. Jesus really pushed their buttons by saying they had made his Father's house into a den of thieves. I don't think that is how to make friends and influence people.
I love the beauty of some churches. My last church, St. Thomas Taunton was a magnificent building and complex. The rectory was colonial and historical as well as the church. It takes huge amounts of money for utilities and maintenance on such a complex. So much of the life of the church can become invested in survival of the institution and not the Lord we are meant to worship.
Whenever I had the chance I would emphasize that God doesn't need our money. The creator of the whole earth and universe does not need anything from us. He wants an offering but money is not it. He wants our hearts. The church needs to be careful that survival does not overtake the offering of our hearts. Money over relationship will never do.
As we look at the gospels we see the many issues Jesus had with the clerical leadership of Israel. He calls them hypocrites and blind guides. He then hits them where they would hurt the most. The had a monopoly on the exchange of cash from Roman to temple coin for a price. They controlled the sale of animals for sacrifice. Jesus really pushed their buttons by saying they had made his Father's house into a den of thieves. I don't think that is how to make friends and influence people.
I love the beauty of some churches. My last church, St. Thomas Taunton was a magnificent building and complex. The rectory was colonial and historical as well as the church. It takes huge amounts of money for utilities and maintenance on such a complex. So much of the life of the church can become invested in survival of the institution and not the Lord we are meant to worship.
Whenever I had the chance I would emphasize that God doesn't need our money. The creator of the whole earth and universe does not need anything from us. He wants an offering but money is not it. He wants our hearts. The church needs to be careful that survival does not overtake the offering of our hearts. Money over relationship will never do.
Monday, February 14, 2011
The King Shall Come Riding On A Colt
John 1:9-10 And those who went before and those who followed cried out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is coming! Hosanna in the highest!”
Throughout the three years that Jesus through the Spirit performed signs and wonders among the people of Israel. many tried to cast him as the new David. They interpreted selected prophesies about the Messiah to predict that the Messiah would re-establish the empire of David. The kingdom of David however was a part of the Old Covenant which was a worldly material covenant, therefor an earthly kingdom. Many other of the prophesies pointed to a sacrificial Messiah who would usher in a new covenant, which we now know was to be a spiritual covenant.
I think we all misinterpret or misapply some of the teaching we have from God. We put God in one box or another that fits our world view. or supports our needs. At the same time we deny one of more component of the complete picture of Jesus. Maybe we like those so many years ago are just unable to take in the entire panorama. Our lens looks at only what is clear and in front of us and the horizons remain out of focus. I know I've opened a few of the boxes that I put Jesus into, but I'm sure I must have more to open.
Lord help us to welcome you for all the right reasons. Help us see the whole picture.
Throughout the three years that Jesus through the Spirit performed signs and wonders among the people of Israel. many tried to cast him as the new David. They interpreted selected prophesies about the Messiah to predict that the Messiah would re-establish the empire of David. The kingdom of David however was a part of the Old Covenant which was a worldly material covenant, therefor an earthly kingdom. Many other of the prophesies pointed to a sacrificial Messiah who would usher in a new covenant, which we now know was to be a spiritual covenant.
I think we all misinterpret or misapply some of the teaching we have from God. We put God in one box or another that fits our world view. or supports our needs. At the same time we deny one of more component of the complete picture of Jesus. Maybe we like those so many years ago are just unable to take in the entire panorama. Our lens looks at only what is clear and in front of us and the horizons remain out of focus. I know I've opened a few of the boxes that I put Jesus into, but I'm sure I must have more to open.
Lord help us to welcome you for all the right reasons. Help us see the whole picture.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
John 8:12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John uses the images of darkness and light again and again in his writing about Jesus. I was leading an Alpha class tonight and in the talk Nicky Gumble spoke about the moment when he found his personal relationship with Jesus. He said it was like a light switch had been turned on, and he was no longer in the darkness. He also said that he didn't even know he was in the dark until then. I can identify with that experience. I left the retreat where my personal relationship with Jesus began and everything in the world seemed different. It was as if I had a new pair of eyes, but not just for physical sight, but also for appreciation of every aspect of life. My Marriage , my children, my job, my faith, all changed and looked better and different with my new relationship with Jesus. I left for that retreat looking for something I had seen in others, but I had no idea that the whole world could look so different. I would have said my view of the world was positive and realistic, but in hind sight I was so wrong.
I once heard Tony Campolo speak of a night in Porte Prince Haiti. He was approached by two young girls who tried to solicit him for sex. He said they didn't even look like teenagers. He hired them for the whole night and took them to his room where he got Disney movies and ice cream and soda and other treats and allowed the girls to be girls for one night. He watched as they giggled and ate and laughed and just enjoyed being kids. He said when he looked at them on the street, he saw them with the eyes of Jesus. Do you want to see the world through the eyes of Jesus? It will look very different you know. The lights will be on and the world will not look so bad, in fact it won't look bad at all.
John uses the images of darkness and light again and again in his writing about Jesus. I was leading an Alpha class tonight and in the talk Nicky Gumble spoke about the moment when he found his personal relationship with Jesus. He said it was like a light switch had been turned on, and he was no longer in the darkness. He also said that he didn't even know he was in the dark until then. I can identify with that experience. I left the retreat where my personal relationship with Jesus began and everything in the world seemed different. It was as if I had a new pair of eyes, but not just for physical sight, but also for appreciation of every aspect of life. My Marriage , my children, my job, my faith, all changed and looked better and different with my new relationship with Jesus. I left for that retreat looking for something I had seen in others, but I had no idea that the whole world could look so different. I would have said my view of the world was positive and realistic, but in hind sight I was so wrong.
I once heard Tony Campolo speak of a night in Porte Prince Haiti. He was approached by two young girls who tried to solicit him for sex. He said they didn't even look like teenagers. He hired them for the whole night and took them to his room where he got Disney movies and ice cream and soda and other treats and allowed the girls to be girls for one night. He watched as they giggled and ate and laughed and just enjoyed being kids. He said when he looked at them on the street, he saw them with the eyes of Jesus. Do you want to see the world through the eyes of Jesus? It will look very different you know. The lights will be on and the world will not look so bad, in fact it won't look bad at all.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Mercy, Please
Mark 10:46-47 Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
I think Batimaues speaks for all of us in this gospel account. I'm not sure we acknowledge our need for Jesus mercy very often, but Bartimaues had an obvious kind of blindness, while our blindness may not be so glaringly obvious. I have frequently recounted how at my first surrender to the love of Jesus as I accepted his forgiveness, it was as if I could see clearly for the first time in my life. I can sing with passion from "Amazing Grace", I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see." For me everything looked different when I began to try to see the world around m through God's eyes.
Periodically I return to a constant repetition of the Jesus prayer as a means of staying centered in Christ. A Russian peasant seeking to pray without ceasing, as the scriptures say, started repeating over and over the Jesus Prayer, "Jesus Son of God have mercy on me a sinner." I will say the first half every time I inhale and the last half every time I exhale. I can pray that prayer while living out the rest of my life talking to others and functioning in quite normal ways. After some days or weeks I lose the discipline but the rewards persist for some time as I use other styles of prayer to nurture my spirit.
Are you blind to your need for mercy?
I think Batimaues speaks for all of us in this gospel account. I'm not sure we acknowledge our need for Jesus mercy very often, but Bartimaues had an obvious kind of blindness, while our blindness may not be so glaringly obvious. I have frequently recounted how at my first surrender to the love of Jesus as I accepted his forgiveness, it was as if I could see clearly for the first time in my life. I can sing with passion from "Amazing Grace", I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see." For me everything looked different when I began to try to see the world around m through God's eyes.
Periodically I return to a constant repetition of the Jesus prayer as a means of staying centered in Christ. A Russian peasant seeking to pray without ceasing, as the scriptures say, started repeating over and over the Jesus Prayer, "Jesus Son of God have mercy on me a sinner." I will say the first half every time I inhale and the last half every time I exhale. I can pray that prayer while living out the rest of my life talking to others and functioning in quite normal ways. After some days or weeks I lose the discipline but the rewards persist for some time as I use other styles of prayer to nurture my spirit.
Are you blind to your need for mercy?
Friday, February 11, 2011
Hard Requirements
Mark 10:22 At that saying his countenance fell, and he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.
The rich young man had tried to do the right thing. He was careful with the commandments he thought. He said he had done all these since he was a youth. Jesus had not included commandment number ten, thou shall not covet. Jesus then points out that he was coveting what belong to others by his hoarding of wealth. Jesus confronted that problem and the young man was downcast and left.
In the story Jesus looks at him with love, but won't let him be content with himself when giving less than he should. Jesus looks at each of us with the same love. He knows what we do right and he knows our flaws and failures. He doesn't give up on us because of our flaws but he won't settle for them either. We are too often led to believe that our flaws are unavoidable. We insist that we are sinners and we will always be sinners. At the end of the passage assigned for the day Jesus says, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God.” Jesus points out that on our own we can't achieve what God desires, but with God all things are possible. We can overcome our shortcomings with God's help. Elsewhere Jesus told the disciples, "Be perfect then as your heavenly Father is perfect." Doesn't sound like letting us off the hook to me.
The rich young man had tried to do the right thing. He was careful with the commandments he thought. He said he had done all these since he was a youth. Jesus had not included commandment number ten, thou shall not covet. Jesus then points out that he was coveting what belong to others by his hoarding of wealth. Jesus confronted that problem and the young man was downcast and left.
In the story Jesus looks at him with love, but won't let him be content with himself when giving less than he should. Jesus looks at each of us with the same love. He knows what we do right and he knows our flaws and failures. He doesn't give up on us because of our flaws but he won't settle for them either. We are too often led to believe that our flaws are unavoidable. We insist that we are sinners and we will always be sinners. At the end of the passage assigned for the day Jesus says, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God.” Jesus points out that on our own we can't achieve what God desires, but with God all things are possible. We can overcome our shortcomings with God's help. Elsewhere Jesus told the disciples, "Be perfect then as your heavenly Father is perfect." Doesn't sound like letting us off the hook to me.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Sharing the Cup
Mark 10:39-40 And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink; and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized; but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.”
The cup that they were to drink was the same cup that Jesus would drink. We drink that same cup, you and me, when we share in the Eucharist. We also share in the same baptism. Jesus wanted the disciples to know that they were sharing in these most important activities, even though they he could not promise the seats at his right and left in his kingdom.
At the time they answered that they could drink the same cup and have the same baptism, but I'm sure they didn't even understand what all that meant. They had not even participated in the Last Supper at that point. I know I participate every week in that blessed sacrament but I don't understand. It is a mystery to me that my life is so blessed by the grace I receive, but again and again it happens.
May of us play the who's on first game. We want the number one position in our school or company or the power position in our family or church. We might even have that position in our mind by not getting involved at all and thinking that we are powerful because we are not controlled by anyone else. Well if your perfect and have the ability to control everything then you too can be crucified after serving everyone else.
Come to think of it, I'll remember my baptism and enjoy sharing in the cup.
The cup that they were to drink was the same cup that Jesus would drink. We drink that same cup, you and me, when we share in the Eucharist. We also share in the same baptism. Jesus wanted the disciples to know that they were sharing in these most important activities, even though they he could not promise the seats at his right and left in his kingdom.
At the time they answered that they could drink the same cup and have the same baptism, but I'm sure they didn't even understand what all that meant. They had not even participated in the Last Supper at that point. I know I participate every week in that blessed sacrament but I don't understand. It is a mystery to me that my life is so blessed by the grace I receive, but again and again it happens.
May of us play the who's on first game. We want the number one position in our school or company or the power position in our family or church. We might even have that position in our mind by not getting involved at all and thinking that we are powerful because we are not controlled by anyone else. Well if your perfect and have the ability to control everything then you too can be crucified after serving everyone else.
Come to think of it, I'll remember my baptism and enjoy sharing in the cup.
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