Context Is Everything

I have grown up hearing people say jokingly that they are a jack of all trades but master of none. I always assumed that the phrase meant that it wasn’t a good thing to not be master of anything. I assumed the real truth would have been the one who is successful will have mastered his trade perfectly. Then I ran across an article that attributed the original phrase to William Shakespeare, and the meaning is not at all what I had understood all my life. Let me give you the original quote - “A jack of all trades is a master of none, but often times better than a master of one.” It actually is not speaking negatively of the jack of all trades but is fairly complimentary. One who is well grounded knows the basics of a lot of skills can often times be more useful than the one who knows just one trade. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes being really good at one thing can be invaluable. For instance, an accountant should have fully mastered his trade. I remember growing up learning how to cook, how to change a flat tire, how to garden, how to do wood projects, how to fix plumbing, how to help in the kitchen, do basic electrical work, etc. Now, with YouTube, people can look up tutorials on how to do things, but we grew up learning a little of everything. The point isn’t what we should be teaching or whether or not a jack of one trade is sufficient. The real issue is how we can think we understand something correctly when we haven’t read the rest of the story. When it comes to God’s word, I hear people say that we shouldn’t judge others and that God accepted everyone. However, we find a crowd brings a woman caught in adultery and they ask Jesus what they should do because God’s word says that one caught in adultery should be stoned to death. Jesus' response is, “Whoever is without sin, throw the first stone.” Jesus was not withholding judgement but rather was casting some of that judgement on the crowd as well. After all, he tells the woman to go and sin no more. On a similar vein, the argument is made that since God is love, we should love and accept everyone. Was God defending the foreigner when he told his people to completely destroy Jericho or destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah? Don’t pick and choose! Father, help us to learn all of Your word so that we don’t dishonor You. Amen

Is the Spirit Willing?

Yesterday, after taking my laptop to the library to send out the worship service on a faster internet connection, I forgot to bring it into the house. I was going to the office to work on a pondering for the evening. Suddenly it dawned on me that I forgotten to bring it in. The car was outside and it had been dark for some time. I didn’t really want to walk out to the car and we have had a skunk that has been a little busy in the yard after dark. I wasn’t excited about bumping into him or disturbing a bear. I chose to wait on my pondering. Started off running this morning and so I am getting around to it now. The thought that came to mind was from Matthew 26 where Jesus said that the spirit was willing but the flesh was weak. I must admit that I wanted write about something, but my flesh was more concerned about aches, pains, and skunks. For that I am sorry, because if I didn’t go running out, of which I don’t think I am capable, there would likely be no issues. Also, my thought of this verse almost cheapens the phrase. The context is that Jesus is in the garden praying that if it is possible that He didn’t have to go to the cross, that would be His preference, but He followed it up with, “Not My will but Yours be done.” Then Jesus found the disciples sleeping and knowing the trials they would face upon His arrest, torture, and death, He pleaded with them to stay awake and pray saying, “...the spirit was willing but the flesh was weak.” I wasn’t facing that sort of trial, so why would that come to mind? That phrase isn’t just for the great trials in life. Sometimes the most dangerous obstacles aren’t the obvious attacks, but the slow spiritual disarming of God’s people through complacency. It often starts in the small betrayal and slowly causes us to fall away (backsliding). We often don’t see the danger until it is too late just as the disciples had no clue what was about to happen. We can and should try to avoid those things that cause us to stumble, but even more importantly is the need to follow Jesus’ advice to pray. It doesn’t matter how much we say we want to do God’s will, if we fail to humble ourselves before Him and seek Him in prayer, we will likely stumble more than we should and may never get back up. Father, help us to take Your words to heart, knowing that our flesh is indeed week. Put a new and right spirit within us. Amen

The Accuracy of God’s Word

Today, at Bible Study, we had a small discussion about prophetic words. These are words given by God directly to people through the vessel of a prophet, a spokesperson of God. Their accuracy level couldn’t be just close. If it was from God, it had to be 100% accurate. There were three different offices spoken of in the Bible - Prophet, Priest, and King. Usually, those called to serve would only operate within one of these offices. As I listened to a program today, I was reminded that David was a king, but he also spoke prophetically. Psalm 22 is classic example. I believe most scholars would agree that this was a foretelling of what would happen on the cross about a thousand years before it happened. So, what are some of the things that make this prophetic. Who is the focus? It refers to the Holy One, who we know as Jesus. As we dig further into Psalm 22, one might argue that Jesus could duplicate what was written to fulfill it rather than it being an actual prophetic truth. I give you verse 16, which says, “They have pierced my hands and feet”. This is significant, because in King David’s day when this Psalm was written, crucifixion was unheard of. They punished people through stoning. In other words, David speaks of a death that wasn’t even invented yet. Also, in verse 14 it speaks of his bones being out of joint... another outcome of a crucifixion. These verses speak of God’s truth and knowledge of past, present, and future. Yet another thing that is outside of Jesus’ control to re-enact that was prophesied is the guards casting lots for Jesus’ clothing. Then there are recorded words of the crowds that mocked Him and hurled insults at Him. It is hard to read Psalm 22 and then read the account of the crucifixion and not see the fulfillment. Also, if Jesus was trying to “make” the prophesies come true, who would willingly suffer an excruciating death on the cross and also remember the words to speak that fulfills these prophesies. I don’t know about you, but if I accidentally hit my finger with a hammer, I am not going to remember the right words to say. What is on my heart is what comes out... good or bad. Knowing then that God’s word is true, we need to faithfully learn and follow His leading. Father, protect our hearts and minds from all the attacks of the Devil, the world, and our own sinful nature that try to cause doubt. Amen

Value of Life

I know I have had this conversation before, but I heard it asked again today. It was about what happens to a serviceman who commits suicide. Even though these men and women have given so much of themselves for their country, no one gets a free pass... not even Peter, James, and John (some of Jesus’ disciples). To be honest, it doesn’t matter if it is a serviceman or a civilian, the end result is the same. The answer does not depend on who we are or what we have done. We cannot claim that they are all saved or they are all condemned. Sadly, there were some churches years ago (and still some today) that believed that committing suicide was an automatic ticket to hell. I want to state first that I believe that God hates suicide, for God is the giver of life, but then He hates all kinds of sin. On this side of heaven, none of us die innocent apart from the saving grace of Jesus. If our eternity was based on our best actions, none of us would be saved. We are saved by having a genuine living faith in Jesus and His sacrificial death for us on the cross. I believe (my words, not God’s) that some suicidal thoughts are caused by medication, some by extreme pain and PTSD, some by cowardice, some are premeditated, and there are other outside influences. This does not excuse the taking of life... just noting that there are outside influences. Some of those same influences cause people to sin in other ways. God alone is the judge of eternity, but the basis of salvation is in grace through faith in Christ. I think that assisted suicide, whether by medical staff or “civilian” is still taking a life God gave and would be a sin in God’s eyes. So, the question about Military suicides, just as it is in civilian suicides, is an issue of faith and action. No faith, according to God’s word, is condemnation. Suicide of a believer due to outside influences is judged by God alone. A better question or approach is to bring God’s word to the lost and hurting. Befriend someone who is serving or has served and be a spiritual encourager and a friend. Many deal with silent battles within. Support Christian outreaches. We may not always be aware, but God is able to draw hearts to Himself. Lord, as we celebrate our nation’s 250th Anniversary, may we never cease reaching out to those that have served. Amen

Being Honest With Ourselves

The move continues. Trying to downsize what has been accumulated over the years is tough. Everything got moved, stored, donated, or removed. Now the process begins to find where each item belongs. In the process, there is more downsizing that must take place. I look at my own possessions and realize that I should be in that same mode... not because I have any plans to move, but I desperately need to downsize too... a lot. How do you go through everything that is so important for so many reasons and determine what stays and what goes. One of my fears is that as soon as I get rid of it, I will find a use for it. This should not shut down my ability to make the right choices... the hard choices... the healthy choices. Some people speak of spring cleaning, which is a good way to keep things somewhat orderly. I fear I need life cleaning. Speaking of life cleaning, how are things going in your life? No. I am not talking about surface things. I am talking about your faith, your desires, your spirituality. Have you allowed extra baggage to become a distraction or a drain? There was a question in the New Testament times about not burdening the new converts with the Jewish laws that just added burden. Is your faith the most important thing in your life, or have you allowed worldly ideas and influences to overwhelm you? Is your spiritual understanding from the foundation of God’s word or have you allowed ideas on the internet, the latest books on spirituality, or your own wants to cloud your judgement.

We probably all need to do some life cleaning where we must start determining, with the help of the Holy Spirit, what we really need. Everything we hang on to from the world is that much less spiritual richness we will know in the depths of our hearts. If you fill your bookshelf with novels, where will you keep the reference books and Biblical references. You can try building another bookshelf, but then it will just add more clutter and distraction. Choose carefully what you allow into your house (where the Holy Spirit dwells) for it will influence everything else that you do. Are you hoarding junk - anger, jealousy, bitterness, materialism, etc. Let it go! Father, create in me a clean heart and put a new and right spirit within me. Remove the trash from my life and fill the space with You. Amen

Attachments

I was helping to move someone to a different home, but it was going to be a smaller space. The new place didn’t have a full kitchen and there were far fewer places to store things. They had to downsize quite a bit. There are always attachments to the things we have. Some are object that help us remember loved ones, some are items that have been very useful over the years, and some are gifts that we treasure. There are probably many other ways that we get attached to things, but is that healthy? I would say yes, within reason. We all have different ways we experience loss and it is hard to let go of some of those things that have been part of our life over the years. I think that where the issue starts to play in is if our attachment to earthly things becomes a greater desire than knowing Jesus. If we can separate the earthly loss with our spiritual desires, we are probably doing ok. I’m not insinuating that we should not mourn the loss of those things that are near and dear to us, but just as scripture says about the death of a believer, we don’t mourn as one without hope. We can mourn, we can grieve, we can miss those things no longer in our life, but with it comes the opportunity to make new connections with the new people we meet. I wonder, however, if most people are as attached to God as they are to their possessions. Again, I am not shaming those that mourn the loss of part of their life in a move. Rather, I would hope that our attachment to God would supercede all these emotions. How is that connection to Jesus obvious in our lives? The hunger and desire that we have to be in God’s word, studying and taking in all that is said. This connection shows every time we invite someone to join us in worship or share what God means to us. I think our silence doesn’t show attachment, but rather embarrassment, uncertainty of what to say, or unbelief. If it is something else that we really love, we usually find a way of sharing it with those around us. We show Godly attachment by how much time we spend with God and whether it is quality time. If we are dating, we express our attachment by how we treat them, how we honor them, and by the way we talk about them. Are you more attached to things or to our Lord Jesus? Father, thank You for the many ways You are actively part of our lives. Help us to stay fully connected to You. Amen

It’s a Small World

The other day I was returning from a church convention. My mom was celebrating a significant birthday, not that they are not all significant. I left the church gathering a little early so that I could make it to my mom's. I cut across the middle of the state where there were only tiny towns and trees... and trees... and trees. It was a beautiful drive and after connecting onto a larger road, I decided to stop for a break. I went into the gas station. Upon coming out of the bathroom, there was a couple that looked familiar. Then it dawned on me that he was one of the pastors from the convention. He had left two hours before me to do a little sight seeing and we both had a hotel stay that was close to a hundred miles apart from each other. He took a much more northern route and yet we stopped in the same town, at the same station, at the same time. I am always amazed at those connections and wonder how many times we miss someone by a few seconds or we walk past them without noticing. I don’t know why we connected, but since I am not aware of anyone else leaving the convention early, I have to wonder if it was intentional on God’s part. Our churches are nowhere near each other, but when we gather in October for the pastor’s conference, I’m sure we will visit a little longer due to this connection. It made me rethink how many times I have questioned how God could accomplish something by getting everything to happen at the right time and place. Then I look at what I experienced and figure that my issues are not an obstacle for God. As we serve the Lord, we don’t have to know all the details. We don’t have to know how God will accomplish through us what we have been called to do. We don’t even have to know what it is God wants us to do because God is already putting everything in place. What then should be expected of us? We need to be walking by faith, surrendered to God’s will, and open to accomplish what God sets before us. We assume everything that happens is for us, but maybe we are led to a certain place, time, and circumstance for the sake of someone else. Success is based on faith and obedience, not by the specifics of what is accomplished. Are you open and available to God? Father, may I always be available to do what You have called me to do. May Your priorities and will by my desire... always. Amen

Solomon’s Prayer

In 1 King 8, we hear King Solomon’s beautiful prayer connected to the temple of the Lord. In that prayer Solomon pleads that if the people face some disaster and then turn to the temple, the dwelling of God, and pray, that God would hear that prayer and answer it. After a rather lengthy prayer, he gets up from his knees and stretched out his hands towards heaven and blessed the people. His prayer is, “Praise be to the Lord, who has given rest to his people Israel just as he promised. Not one word has failed of all the good promises he gave through his servant Moses.” Solomon turns their hearts toward God in praise for all His faithfulness, declaring that not one promise has failed that He gave through Moses. There have been many years and trials, but God remains faithful. Then we have a little bit of an odd statement, “May the Lord our God be with us as he was with our fathers; may he never leave us nor forsake us.” Not the part about the Lord being with them, but the statement “may God never leave or forsake us”. The problem wasn’t that God left them, but that they left God through their disobedience and sin. As a matter of fact, we see in Psalm 23 that God’s goodness and mercy will follow (not give up on us) all the days of our lives. God turned His face from His people, but He didn’t forsake them. I think Solomon knew that for we hear his prayer continue, “May he turn our hearts to him, to walk in all his ways and to keep the commands, decrees and regulations he gave our fathers.” We can’t do it without the help of the Holy Spirit. Solomon is seeking God to turn or hearts and lead us according to His way and by His commands. This is no different today. If we hunger to have that intimate walk with God, it is because of the prompting of the Holy Spirit. We can choose to respond differently, but without the Holy Spirit, that is just an outward action. Our prayer should always be that God would change our heart to seek and honor Him. Then Solomon talks about God answering according to each days needs... not longing for tomorrow’s answers, but just what we need to today. Solomon closes this section insisting that the heart must be fully committed to Lord and that we would live daily to honor our God. Lord, we do okay asking for You to help us or others in hard times, but we don’t pray often enough for You to change our hearts. Amen

Security

I apologize for not writing a post for quite a while. I went to our national convention and took my computer with so I could get things done. When I tried to connect to the internet at the hotel, my computer informed me that the security needed updating and I needed a password to make that happen. I didn’t have the password with me, and I don’t like the idea of going on the internet without a little extra security online, so I wasn’t able to get any ponderings done. It always amazed me how many people refuse to do anything on the internet without security because they know about all the bad characters that are trying to steal their information or money. Well, that part doesn’t amaze me but rather how they don’t realize that without spiritual security they leave their eternity wide open for the Devil, the godless world, and their own sinful self. They're more concerned with protecting their earthly assets than they are in protecting their eternity. If there are bad people trying to steal their identity here on earth, why do they not recognize that same evil also attacks them spiritually. Now, I’d love to say that this is just an “outside the church” problem, but it’s not. I believe that there are many within the church that don’t connect our submission to God with our eternal security. It would be like me thinking that because I always use the same laptop that even if things change (like my computer security needing updating) my life will still be secure. I would never think that I am so good on the internet that I can avoid those trying to ruin me, and yet, many think that their work and lifestyle are enough to protect them... and it’s not. I would never think I could recognize every virus or scam on the internet and yet spiritually, people think they have nothing to fear. I would never think that because I scanned my computer for dangerous content last month that I don’t need to scan the computer again, yet, we put confidence in things we have done in the past to protect us from spiritual destruction today. If my account gets hacked, I will still survive and live to fight another day. If my spiritual life comes under the control of Satan, I am finished eternally. The Devil can’t do anything God doesn’t allow and by faith, God is my security. Have you allowed God in? Father, I give You complete control of my life, talents, and possessions. I need Your protection. Amen

The Straw Man

I don’t know if you are familiar with the concept, but it gets used a lot in politics. The person speaking creates a fictitious situation or idea, attributing it to the opposing side, and then proceed to dismantle it as if they have proven theirself and their position. The problem with this is that many of the “straw-men” are fictitious or unfairly paint the other in a negative light. It really only works for the side that created it because the opposition group is offended by the example. Why am I bothering to explain what politicians do? Because I believe that many in the church are doing the same thing and it does not bring unity. A Baptist tries to dismantle Lutheran theology without really understanding it. A Lutheran might try to cast the Catholic church in a very negative way. A Catholic church might... and so the endless circle of straw-men continues. Well, shouldn’t we try to defend our church? Actually, “No”. We should be defending the word of God. Now if you believe that your church is correctly understanding the word of God, then you defend that word. When we create a “straw-man” to tear apart another church body, we will lose the opportunity to witness to that “denomination” because they are offended by the false representation. If we took more time to understand the teachings of other churches, we may find that we are very close on multiple topics. In the areas we don’t seem to have agreement, we need to try to understand where the person is coming from before we begin to bring any judgement. Once we feel we understand their position and where they see that in Scripture, let us defend what we believe as of first importance rather than trying to tear another down. If we rightly understand God’s word, then let that word be the power behind any change that follows. I remember reading that during revivals, they often had a section where people were encouraged to go to commit their lives to Jesus. The problem is that many admitted that they used manipulation to get people there so that their record of conversions would look good. Coercing someone to change their position by focusing on winning the debate rather than winning the heart speaks to our ego and not a heart of humble service. Father God, help me to present the truth in love so that the hearer not only understands, but they hunger to grow in faith. Amen

Finality of a Will

There are a lot of legal documents that you might run across in life. Usually there is a date attached as to when it starts, or even when it ends. A Will, a document stating what will happen upon one’s death, has no pre-dated starting point. It isn’t something that one can borrow against. If I were to outlive all the beneficiaries (those who would inherit something), new names would have to be given or there is a legal order if there is no paperwork. The truth is, the Will doesn’t take effect until the one who wrote the Will passes away. So, why does this matter to you? We were looking at Luther’s Catechism concerning the Lord’s Supper. We hear the words, “Take and eat. This is the blood of the new covenant/testament shed for you for the forgiveness of sins”. The promise and assurance of this Sacrament took effect upon the death of Jesus. At this point, it cannot be withdrawn or altered. Jesus is not sacrificed over and over again, but the death He died, He died once and for all. The promise doesn’t need to be offered over and over again. The promises are made all the more sure when His will was put into place. The blood that assured the legality of the covenant was not symbolic. The blood of bulls and goats were not offered, as was spoken of in the law. This covenant was put into effect when Jesus’ shed blood sealed it. When we receive Holy Communion, we don’t just think of what Jesus did, but we claim the promise of forgiveness that was part of that covenant. Take and eat. Take and drink. Come in faith and be cleansed by that blood. A covenant was never made to be symbolic. It was an agreement between two parties and if one failed, the blood usually indicated death. In this covenant, our responsibility is to walk in faith and receive it with believing hearts... which by the way will cause us to desire to walk in righteousness all of our days. God, on the other hand, has taken both the responsibility of making the covenant and suffering the consequence of breaking that same covenant. Jesus doesn’t want us to remember His dying... He wants us to remember what He did so that we might live our lives fully... free from the law and the power of sin. It is more than remembering... it is receiving. Father, thank You for sending Your Son to pay a price we could not pay. Give us a true heart of faith. Amen

All People That On Earth Do Dwell

There was a hymn that came to mind today that I wanted to share with you. The rhyming is a little awkward, but the words are good. So often we are asking God for something. This hymn is stating who God is and what we owe. The first verse goes like this: “All people that on earth do dwell, Sing to the Lord with cheerful voice; Him serve with mirth, his praise forth tell; Come ye before him and rejoice.” It is a call for us to come before God in worship. Not just some, but the whole earth should be lifting its voice to God. It is not a chore to come... we serve Him joyfully with praises on our hearts. The next verse say, “Know that the Lord is God indeed; Without our aid he did us make. We are his folk, he doth us feed, And for his sheep he doth us take.” Why should we serve Him and lift our voice in praise? Clearly because the Lord is God. Not a god. Not like god. Not one of many gods. The Lord we serve is God. He didn’t need us when the world was created. He made everything that exists today. Not only did He make us, but He has provided food for eating. It may take work, but God gives plants, animals, and the ability to produce more of each kind. The greatest of all that God has done is making us His sheep, belonging to Him and following Him. The third verse says, “Oh, enter then his gates with praise; Approach with joy his courts unto; Praise, laud, and bless his name always, For it is seemly so to do.” The author is leading us not just to acknowledge God, but to enter His gates... His temple... heaven itself with prayer and praise. Whether we are living daily in the world... whether we enter His house to lift our hearts in worship... whether we enter Heaven through prayer and praise, it is not something we need acknowledgment for, but rather our duty and privilege. Next we hear, “For why? the Lord our God is good: His mercy is forever sure; His truth at all times firmly stood, And shall from age to age endure.” So the question comes up, “Why should we do all this? Simple. The Lord is God and God is good. As much as we are undeserving, He is all the more merciful. God has never wavered on His word or promise from the beginning. So we close, “To Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, The God whom heav'n and earth adore, From us and from the angel host Be praise and glory evermore.

Where to Go?

I was recently talking with family out in Washington state. They were talking about a beautiful pink flower that was growing there. Even though the computers said that it could grow almost anywhere as an annual flower (one that needed to be planted each year), it generally stayed on the West Coast and a little on the East Coast of the United States. It is a beautiful plant and it makes me wonder why I don’t see it grow around here in Northern Wisconsin. It then got me thinking of a beautiful plant we had in South Dakota called Pasque. I remember seeing one growing wild in a pasture and digging it up to plant it in our flower bed. It didn’t take more than a few days to figure out that it wouldn’t grow there. Isn’t that odd. It will grow in the wild, fighting to survive among all the grasses and weeds, but it cannot survive a domesticated life. It got me thinking about how we sometimes just need to grow where we are planted. Like the Pasque, if we try to take on a ministry or some service for God that we have not been called to, it may very likely not blossom. One person can preach in the inner city while another might fail, if they tried. If doesn’t matter how much we try to nurture something, it will likely not thrive if God’s hand is not on it. If, however, we grow where we are planted, using the gifts we have been given, and seek God’s direction often, I believer that we will see that ministry grow. I looked at a plant in the field and wanted it to grow in my garden. Likewise, I can’t be longing for the talents given to others. There have been many times I have thought... if only I could preach like that... if only I could know everything they know... if only I could not only see those in need, but have the gifts to assist them. I think we all have longed for things that are not ours. This also means that we might have to adjust what we are doing to match our changing abilities. Since I am having knee issues, I probably won’t be a good runner or being active on my feet, but there are still things I can do. Likewise, as your circumstances change, you might need to approach what you do and can do differently. First, pray that God would reveal His gifts in you and then ask God to show you how to use them for His glory. Father, Forgive me for the times that I long for things that are not mine to have. Help me to joyfully serve you with what I do have. Amen

I Love Photography

I enjoy the cameras and phones that are just point and shoot. They adjust all the settings and make sure the pictures turns out looking amazing. Even with this type of camera, it still takes a skill to find the right subject, the right background, and to frame it right. Some of it can be learned, but when one gets to the upper level, there is a part that is pure instinct. As much as I love the simplicity, I also enjoy the cameras that you can control the time the lens is open, how big that lens gets, and how sensitive the “film” is to light and darkness. The hard thing with the old fashioned film cameras was that you didn’t know how the picture turned out until it was taken to a photo shop and developed. You might wait days, weeks, months, and sometimes years to see what the picture turned out like. With digital camera, you can see instantly what you have. Also, with the old camera, the sensitivity of the film couldn’t be changed once the film was loaded. The digital camera allows it to be changed whenever you want. Going back to basics, you can change the composition of the picture by adjust sensitivity, size of opening, and length of time it is opened. If you make the lens opening big, it lets in a lot of light, so the picture has to be taken more quickly or it will be over-exposed. The big opening is so that the closer objects are clear and the background is fuzzy. A small lens opening doesn’t let in much light and so it must stay open longer. This setting allows for the background to be about as clear as the stuff in front. The new believer is like the camera with the big lens and fast shutter speed. We notice the things right near us, but everything else is fuzzy. We might focus on what is around us, but we are unaware of what else God is doing. A sudden burst of zeal only focuses on us and those near to us. This is not healthy long-term. The seasoned Christian is like the small lens hole over a longer time. It is patient so that we might have a better overall picture of what is going on. It works by making sure everyone is seen. The sensitivity of the film needs to change based on sun or darkness. The Holy Spirit is the one that sets the sensitivity of my heart and spirit. He helps me to stay steady and strong. Father, you are the photographer and we are the cameras. Help us to develop into the people You have called us to be. Amen

Comfort vs. Truth

I apologize in advance as I know this pondering may upset some people. That is not my intent. I believe that if someone may be jeopardizing the intimacy of their walk with God, then we should desire to help them get back on track. I have heard many people speak of loved ones that have passed away as if they were still watching over them. The first thing I want to say is that humans that die do not become angels. Angels are one type and humans another. A human can no more be an angel than a human can give birth to a dog. They are not compatible and have different purposes. If we die, having faith in Jesus, we are promised perfect unity with God as He created us to have in the beginning. Angels on the other hand (according to Hebrews 1:14), “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” The second thing is that those that have died are not watching over us. The Bible says we die once and then face judgement. No intermediate job or function. Also, in heaven, there is no more weeping, pain, or suffering. How could one in heaven look at earth and not feel pain and sorrow. It is understandable, shortly after a tragic loss, to struggle with letting go and desiring to still be connected more intimately than just memories, but it doesn’t make it true or right. Why am I bothering to write this? We unknowingly exchange the worship and attention that we owe God toward “false hopes”. When I am thinking of loved one’s watching over me, I am replacing the function of the angels, and more importantly, I am not honoring God as I should. He says, “I am the Lord your God. You shall have no other God’s besides me.” That means not looking to idols, or angels, or anything else that gets our worship and devotion. Also, loved ones do not return in any other form. They do not come back as ghosts or wander the earth because they have unfinished business. We are specifically told not to consult the dead. They do not take on the form of cardinals, hummingbirds, or butterflies. We have our memories to comfort us and stir our hearts. If we need someone watching over us, Scripture points to the Holy Spirit. It is ok to deeply mourn their loss, but our hope is in Christ. Father, help us to mourn those we have lost. Give us faith to see our comfort comes, not from the world, but from Your presence. Amen

Glimpses into Heaven

You have probably heard or read about individuals that claim to have died and gone to heaven, and then God sent them back to earth again. Is that real? First of all, the question should be is it real to them. If it isn’t, it is clearly a hoax. Could they believe they went to heaven and back and not be right? Well, Paul talked about a vision that he had of heaven that he couldn’t determine if it was real or just a vision. Why does that make a difference? If we glimpsed into heaven, we get a chance to see and hear everything. If it is a vision, we are only receiving what the sender wants us to see. Why do I say sender and not God? I know that the Devil can cause people to speak in tongues...perhaps he can conjure up visions as well. How can we know the difference? First of all, the content. If it is contrary to God’s word, it is not from God. Second, we all called to test the spirits. This might include praying that God would validate it if it is from God. If it feels wrong, this is most likely an indication that it is not from God. I guess a good question to ponder, if you received similar vision or if you felt you were taken to heaven is, “Why did God allow you to see that?” Was the return for you or for others? How is this experience going to impact your faith and walk with God? If these events do indeed happen, I believe God has a purpose that will likely have to do with faith. I know it wasn’t an accident because that is impossible with God. I know it wasn’t because God wasn’t ready yet because you will never catch God unprepared. It could be an answer to prayers. God may have wanted to encourage someone so that they could minister more confidently. We don’t receive such an experience to make money, but rather to impact lives. If one’s life is not changed, then they did not see heaven for we could never forget such a powerful image. That being said, I believe that God does allow some to get a glimpse of heaven so that we all might be encouraged. If you expect to be able to explain heaven, forget it. God always says, “Heaven is like...” because we have no earthly words that can truly describe what awaits us. The focus should not be on what heaven is like but rather what will worshiping God be like. Is there a place waiting for you? Father, help is distinguish between truth and lies. Encourage us in faith. Prepare us for ministry today and heaven tomorrow. Amen

Born Again

There are many terms used in the church that might be labeled “Christianese”, if that were a word. What I mean is that so many use it generally without a clear definition. In some circles, that tend to be more charismatic or Holy Spirit focused, being born again often carries the idea of a specific moment in time when the individual has a “moment” with God. People often refer back to such an event as the moment I became a true Christian. I struggle with the concept of a feeling because, I have had half a dozen such moments when I was so filled with God’s presence that I desired to stay in His presence. These are good moments... powerful moments... Holy Spirit moments, but I didn’t become a Christian each time I felt God’s presence so powerfully. I know of many faithful believers that have had no such moment, but rather a gradual growth over the years. I don’t believe one is better than the other if the faith is genuine and the submission is from our hearts. I believe that there are many who see being born again as dying to ourselves and surrendering fully to God - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I believe that the heart of faith is obedience, just as Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will obey my commandments”. It is wonderful when the overwhelming sense of God’s presence rests on us, but feelings can be very fickle. Does that mean if I don’t feel God, I am not walking in faith. That would be silly. A passage that is often quoted on being born again is John chapter 3. Nicodemus went to Jesus to seek His direction. Jesus says, “...no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” Jesus goes on to say, “...no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit”. I believe this refers to baptism, a covenant in which God ties physical elements (water) to His word and the outcome has spiritual benefits. The phrase “born again” can also be translated “born from above”. Since Nicodemus didn’t know what being born again meant, versus 5-8 are not sufficient and Nicodemus asks, “How can this be?” There is no more mention of the Holy Spirit but there is a continued focus on believing what Jesus did on the cross. Believing, aided by the Holy Spirit, seems to be the bases of rebirth. Father, fill us with the Holy Spirit... with faith, wisdom, and understanding, that we might die to the world and live for You. Amen

The Sound of Music

Music has always been an important part of my life. My mom played piano since long before I was born. We had devotions in the evening and would sing a few hymns. Actually, in the mission field, many of those nights were lit up by kerosene or hurricane lanterns. Our family formed a barbershop quartet. I learned to sing harmony by listening to my dad. I sang in church choirs and college choirs. I even took a year to be on a music ministry team. I could even say one of my favorite movies was the Sound of Music. By the way, some of the original Von Trappe family that the movie was based on went to Papua New Guinea as missionaries and taught some natives to sing many classical pieces. Music is a way of expressing our soul. When our spirit is broken, there usually is no music left... until healing can be found. A whole book of the Bible is based on music... the book of Psalms. This same music can either praise God or express the depravity of man. Many secular pieces today speak of things that should be unspeakable. When we listen to that music, part of its message resides in our heart as music has a profound way of planting itself in our lives and memory. Many people have important memories that are tied to specific pieces of music... wedding, first date, or other important events where music was being played. We have to make sure we are not giving the Devil access to our heart by opening ourselves to all this secular music. On the other hand, music can minister to the heart and sooth the soul of those that listen to worship music... and sometimes classical pieces of music. If we could put Bible verses to music, we would all probably be able to memorize these passages. So how will you use music in your daily life. Do you sing songs of praise and worship... when you are alone... even in the shower? Do you play it in the car or home when others are around so that they might be uplifted? Today, we used music to minister to a retirement home. It was a real joy to use that which is so precious to me to share with others... even if they don’t fully get it because I believe the spirit within us always responds to it. I would love to sing in a choir or quartet again... maybe even barbershop music. Father, help us to use music as a way to lift our heart and voice to You. Help us to bring this glorious music to others others. Amen

Who Should We Tell?

We have a lot of different things that we like to tell others. Sadly, if it is gossip we will tell whoever will listen. If it is about a new baby, we will tell almost anyone... except for those that are a little creepy. For jobs, sports, politics, etc. we probably have a much smaller group. Especially with politics as it becomes an "us and them" situation instead of civil conversations about our country. Sometimes when we talk about church, that circle is smaller yet. If it isn’t someone we are comfortable with or has something positive to add to our community, we often steer clear. The one who smells funny, has awkward social skills, hangs out at the bar, or wears clothes that are unacceptable by our standards are usually left alone. O, we are fine with sending money and items overseas to people there because we probably won’t actually see them or have to interact physically with them. If someone does come from the mission fields to here, it is likely someone that has done pretty well and thus would fit in... if nothing else, be a charity case. What does Jesus say? You might be saying, “Why did you have to go down that road?” You might feel that way because you know Jesus accepted people from all walks of life. The gospel lesson today was from the book of Matthew chapter 9. Jesus calls a tax collector to follow Him. Tax collectors were about as vile or hated as any man could be. By the way, his name was Matthew. He became one of the twelve disciples. Jesus went to Matthew's house to eat and many tax collectors and “sinners” joined them. The leaders of the church asked, in shock, how Jesus, who was meant to be a good teacher, could eat with such sinners. Jesus response was that he didn’t come to rescue the righteous, but the sick. Sometimes we spend so much time trying to keep the “good people” in our church happy that we have no time or energy left to reach out to the “sick”. I knew a pastor that didn’t want the “drunks” to hear the gospel because they might sully God’s name. Can you imagine that? Jesus says, "Go! Tell the drunks, the promiscuous, the awkward, the loner, the unkempt, foul mouth, the gender confused, etc. We are not to accept actions contrary to God’s word, but we are to love them. Father, Help us to welcome all people into your house and share the gospel with whoever will listen. May they find peace in You. Amen

Vacation

This is vacation time for families with School for the summer and the temperature hasn’t gotten too hot. We may travel to see family, go to a family cabin, or just set out on an adventure we have always dreamed about. I know someone that created a realistic bucket list for the year. There were places and activities that they would be near and so the idea was to keep pushing forward and experiencing all they could see and do. It makes activities throughout the year more intentional, and it allows the greatest opportunity to succeed in doing them all. In the midst of all the plans, we must continue to think about our time with God. During travel, we might be able to find Christian stations on the radio or take some digital or even a CD with to keep God in the midst of it all. If possible, have a devotion book or the Bible with and make intentional time to read it. Like the bucket list I spoke of, if we don’t specifically plan it, it will likely not happen. Sunday mornings are particularly important, even if you are a visitor in an unfamiliar church. Check what the church stands for and what its basic beliefs are. Double check the time of worship (maybe even call ahead) because many churches go to a summer schedule with few services and changed times. If you are with family, you especially need to set a good example. Let them see how important that time with God is. Faith is not a on again off again proposition. It is a daily walk with God. The point is, summer doesn’t change our need for God’s leading. If anything, we should have more time to spend with God personally and professionally. Maybe if your church records the service, you can all sit around the computer screen or TV to participate with them. When it comes to living out our faith this summer, let us look for opportunities to encourage others. It might be worth spending a little extra time looking for the places of worship in the towns you will be in so that you have a great experience. I’ve said it before...thank goodness God doesn’t take vacations. We sometimes are guilty of falling into a rut and finding a new church on vacation seems too hard. No one will know if you don’t go, right? Understand, God, who we claim to worship knows it. Father, even on vacation my heart longs for that Christian community. Help us make our time with You a priority. Amen