About Me

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Knoxville, Tennessee, United States
Hello. Thanks for stopping by. If you care to read about what's crossing my mind or sticking in my heart I welcome you to my latest post. So, I hope you enjoy my ramblings. More importantly, I hope I can encourage you to join me in my quest to be a faithful follower of my Lord Jesus Christ.

Thursday, August 14, 2014

The Difference between Amazement and Wonder



And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying, “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!” And the four living creatures said, “Amen!” and the elders fell down and worshiped.
Revelation 5:13-14

Revelation is a fascinating book. It has become subject to many interpretations. Many books have been written and sermons preached about the signs, symbols and wonders found in the apocalyptic ending to the New Testament. Although I would never deny the significance of the details of God’s sovereignty as revealed in Revelation, I am captured most by the scenes of worship. More importantly, I am captured by the One worshiped. It’s not unusual for me to speak of these scenes as “awe-inspiring”. When I ponder the portrait of the Savior on the throne Revelation 5:13-14, I understand why “the elders fell down and worshiped.”

We live in a culture filled with thrill seekers. We are addicted to energy drinks. We are caffeine junkies. We crave excitement and entertainment. We wait with baited breath for the next big thing to amaze us. Is that good? I must confess that I have never really considered the difference between amazement and wonder. Without getting too caught up in semantics, there is a deep message in the difference.

The Difference between Amazement and Wonder…“Wonder and awe do us good precisely because they stun and mute our spontaneous energies. They literally paralyze us so that we become reflective by conscription. Amazement does the opposite. It turns us into mindless cheerleaders, irrespective of what is right or wrong or what we actually value.”
Ronald Rolheiser, Sacred Fire

It’s easy to read Revelation and become “amazed”. We have to guard against such a reading. Rather, we should read Revelation and pause and ponder. We should become awestruck – paralyzed for the moment at His majesty, power and glory. We should reflect on God’s eternal plan and purpose for humanity…and we should worship Him for who He is.

Monday, July 21, 2014

Vicarious Learning



Dear friends, although I was eager to write you about the salvation we share, I found it necessary to write and exhort you to contend for the faith that was delivered to the saints once for all.
Jude 3

I am a believer in the importance of “leading by example”. Leadership authors Kouzes and Posner suggest that one of the greatest truths of leadership is “You either lead by example or you don’t lead at all”. However, not all examples are positive. I believe it is important to learn “what not to do” as well as “what to do”. Jude is a short letter in the New Testament. If you’re reading through the New Testament, it’s easy to skim Jude as you press toward the final book. But, Jude is packed with examples of “what not to do”. The letter opens with an admonition to contend for the faith. One way to contend is to pay attention to those who have not finished well.

How many examples are required to make a point? Jude is divided into a mere 25 verses. Yet, in those 25 verses, there is an impressive list of bad choices. Consider the A, B, C’s of disobedience: Angels who abandoned their home, Balaam’s greed and Cain’s murder. Then, move on to Sodom and Gomorrah, the rebellion of Korah and the unbelief of those who came out of Egypt.

So, what is the point? It’s really straightforward. If I am going to contend for my faith in God, I need to learn from these examples. Most of the time, I am looking for good examples to follow. However, Jude provides a great reminder of vicarious learning. I can learn from the mistakes of others. It’s one of the reasons I enjoy reading the ancient stories found in the Old Testament. Even my greatest heroes teach me lessons through their victories and their mistakes.

Monday, July 14, 2014

Proving the Will of God


Romans 12:1-2
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

There are so many deep messages packed into this passionate plea from Paul the Apostle. He points us all toward faithful obedience to the will of God. It’s not always easy to determine the will of God. But, the prerequisites are easy to understand. I need to present myself to God as a sacrifice. That requires me to acknowledge that His will is more important than mine. It’s helpful to remember that Jesus taught us to pray for God’s will to be done in our daily lives. Also, Paul teaches us to resist being shaped by the world around us. Rather, we need to crave a different kind of change. God can help transform me from the inside out. The transformation of God’s presence and power affects decision-making. God’s presence in my life has affected my life in a significant way.
Yesterday, I made a difficult decision to step aside from full time pastoral ministry at Heritage Fellowship Church. This has been a prayerful decision for Lynn, Nick and me.  All along the way, we have been sensitive to the guidance found in Romans 12:1-2. I love my church family at Heritage Fellowship and it is not a decision that was precipitated by a problem or a crisis at the church. It has been a privilege to serve as senior pastor for nearly 10 years. We leave with immense gratitude for the love and care provided by our church family. The decision to leave Heritage is a decision to “prove” what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God”. I am grateful for God’s direction in our lives and I look forward to the opportunities that He has given us to continue to serve. As I teach, write and invest in developing others, I will do so having been blessed by my experiences at Heritage. Also, Lynn, Nick and I are very happy to continue to reside in Knoxville as we serve the Lord.

Monday, July 7, 2014

21st Century Idolatry?

1 John 5:21
Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.

John is known as the “beloved” disciple of Jesus. It’s not surprising that “love” is a primary theme in the letter that bears his name. John teaches that “God is love” and “we love God because He first loved us.” Throughout this short epistle, John connects “love” with “life”. If I love, then I will live in a way that demonstrates my devotion to God. My relationship with God and my relationships with others will be a consistent reflection of God’s love. After painting a pretty clear picture of what that kind of life looks like, John wraps up the letter with a terse admonishment:  “keep yourselves from idols.” It’s important to connect the dots from the 1st Century to the 21st Century. Otherwise I will think I’m in good shape because I don’t have a carved up image of a god sitting on my hearth. I don’t think idolatry is less a problem today than it was then. Although it’s nothing to brag about, I think our culture is very creative when it comes to manufacturing idols. Timothy Keller reminds,

Because we can set up idols in our hearts (Ezekiel 14: 3– 7), we recognize that “making an image” of something is not necessarily a physical process but is certainly a spiritual and psychological one. It means imagining and trusting anything to deliver the control, security, significance, satisfaction, and beauty that only the real God can give.

So, how do I connect John’s message about God’s love and my need to reject idolatry? I have to realize that there is no substitute for God’s love. God’s love is unique. For example, only God’s love has the capacity to cast out my deepest fears and insecurities (1 John 4:18). I need to be willing to examine my life. What is my first response when I am afraid?  When I feel my security, significance or satisfaction is threatened, where do I turn? I have learned that it is during those times I am particularly vulnerable to idolatry. It’s so easy to turn to someone or something and seek peace or affirmation that only God can give. John’s final words to his spiritual “children” are powerful. Don’t look for a substitute for God. There is not one.

Monday, June 30, 2014

A Fruitful Life


2 Peter 1:5-8
But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

It’s a pretty big promise - “you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ”. Do I want to live a fruitful life? Yes, of course I do. It’s such an extravagant promise I find myself drawn toward the promise at the expense of the prerequisites. Real fruitfulness takes time. This is not a “no-bake” recipe. This list of ingredients is folded into my life on a daily basis. My “faith” becomes “faith” when it is tested. Until I have said “no” to temptation, “self-control” is not a significant part of my character. Real “love” cannot find expression in isolation. It begins in relationships that are safe and comforting and matures when manifested toward someone who seems to have nothing to offer in return.

What about the promise? Am I guaranteed a fruitful life? Perhaps there is a hidden promise. It’s not the promise of fruitfulness that is greatest. Fruitfulness is very important to me. But, the source of fruitfulness is much more valuable. As I read through this list carefully, I must confess that Jesus Christ is my source and inspiration. The list begins with faith and ends with love. My faith is in Christ. I love because Christ first loved me. The greater promise in this passage is that the character of Christ will increase in my life. When that is true, my life cannot be barren or unfruitful.

Without a purpose, life can become hollow…I’ve concluded that the metric by which God will assess my life isn’t dollars but the individual people whose lives I’ve touched.

 
Clayton M. Christensen

Monday, June 23, 2014

Bread of Life



But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 3:18)

Sometimes I stop reading before I finish a book. Sorry to admit it. Are the final words really that important? There is an echo in my head from teachers long that a proper conclusion is designed to “tell ‘em what you told ‘em”. Well, if you have already told me then I don’t want to read it again. In the case of reading through the short epistle known as 2 Peter that would be a tragedy. I’m glad I read the last verse.

How can I describe my life with Jesus in just a few words? 2 Peter 3:18 answers the question. A healthy life with Jesus is characterized by growth in grace and the knowledge of Him. This imperative verb form doesn’t read as if growth is optional. It is a powerful directive aimed in my direction. The letter closes with a personal admonition – “Paul, don’t forget to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus”.  

Is it possible to live a life that is contrary to this recipe for life in Christ? Of course it is. Look within. Look around. Malnourished souls abound. Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life”. His declaration is non-negotiable. True life is found in Jesus. Only Jesus satisfies.  Craig Dykstra notes,

“We can turn everything from computer chips and laser beams to legal briefs and leveraged buyouts into daily bread. The bread that we feed on is the bread of business and busyness and boredom, a bread known both in and out of the church. This bread will not satisfy our deepest hunger.”

Dykstra continues,
“We are hungry without fully knowing it, needy but unaware, in exile but unable to remember another home. We need to recognize our true hunger – hunger not for the things we can make, buy, and consume but for another kind of “daily bread”, a daily bread we do not produce and cannot control all by ourselves.”

I am beginning to understand this hunger. I am beginning to recognize these intense cravings. If your spiritual stomach is growling, it may be a sign. I hunger for growth in grace and the knowledge of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Monday, June 16, 2014

Building a life

Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2:4-5)

For the past few months, I have watched a large construction project across the street from our church building. The project began with demolition of the old structures and preparation for the new. The “Grand Opening” is scheduled in the near future. I remember when I first learned the identity of the primary structure. Identity is important. Once I heard the news, I was able to respond to the question -  “What is being built?”  It’s an appropriate question and I’m never surprised when I am asked.

Should I be surprised if I am asked the same question with regard to my life? Probably, it’s a question I should be asking myself on a regular basis.  What kind of life am I building? One of Jesus better-known disciples offered some coaching a long time ago. Peter wrote, “We are being built up a spiritual house.”

Just like the project across the street, my life has included some “demolition”. I feel like I have been leveled out a few times too. Obviously, a spiritual house is not built with bricks and mortar. Rather, a spiritual house is built using “living stones”. Building with “living stones” can be a little tricky. Structural integrity is essential. My structural integrity is directly related to another living stone, Jesus Christ. Certain aspects of my house are predetermined by the Master builder. The “plans” show a spiritual house, a holy house and a house that offers up acceptable worship to God.

There is one aspect of Peter’s description of life that leaves me deeply moved. Occasionally, I have been in a Home Depot and watched a builder inspect lumber. Several times, I have seen the process unfold. The best pieces are selected, the others left behind. Peter mentions both aspects. He mentions “rejection” and he mentions “selection”. I expect to be among those pieces of lumber rejected. I am not strong enough or straight enough. I am filled with imperfections and weaknesses. But, Peter reveals two aspects of the same marvelous truth. Frist, I am not rejected. Second, Jesus was. Because of God’s grace I am both “chosen” and “precious”. Seems impossible. Yet, it is possible because Jesus was rejected on my behalf in order to make a way for me to be chosen. He took on all my imperfections and bore my rejection for me. Now, together with him, I am being built into the kind of house that pleases God.

Monday, June 9, 2014

Joy during Tests

For long centuries those who belong to the world have waged war against the way of faith, and they have yet to win.
Eugene Peterson

I have been studying the first chapter of 1 Peter this past week. Some of the letter is reminiscent of his preaching contained in the book of Acts. Peter continues to proclaim the message of the resurrection of Jesus. Because of the New Testament record, I know about some of Peter’s experiences before and after Jesus raised up from the dead and ascended in heaven. But, I can only imagine what his life was like between the ascension and when he wrote this particular letter. Peter is aware of tough challenges. If church tradition is correct, Peter became a martyr after writing the letters we know as 1st and 2nd Peter. With that in mind, I consider his words carefully. Peter encourages believers, who are scattered around Asia Minor, to rejoice in the midst of trails.

In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. (1 Peter 1:6-9)

What feeds my rejoicing in the midst of trials? What is my source of joy when my faith is being stretched? Peter gives several answers to these questions. He elevates my field of vision from what is happening today to consider the impact on eternity. He refines my focus from “what’s happening to me” to “how does this glorify God?” Finally, Peter reminds me of what matters most: “Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love”.

When I read those words, I remember another time when Peter was tested. He failed. He failed miserably. In the midst of his fiery trial, Peter was asked if he was a follower of Jesus. In response, Peter violently refused to be associated with Jesus. When Jesus restored Peter and commissioned him to become a shepherd of believers, Jesus asked a straightforward question, “Do you love me?” Now, years later, Peter goes back to the heart of the matter. When I’m tested, I must remember to focus on my love for Jesus and that will always give me cause to rejoice.

Monday, May 26, 2014

Show me your faith


I will show you my faith by my works
James 2:18

Somehow I get the impression that James was not the guy that I would ask for an opinion unless I really wanted to know. Be honest. You want to avoid “James”. I have been blessed with a “James” or two in my life. Here’s the difference. I can ask, “How was the sermon?” Most will say, “That was a good message” coupled with one of those innocuous smiles that lets me know the message has already escaped and the lunch menu has moved to front of mind. “James” will say, “the intro was a weak, you lost your main point in the middle, exegesis lacked sharpness and you could have ended 3 minutes before you did…but I like your text selection”.

James is not the “feel good” book on your summer reading list if you are a bit timid about following Christ or “double-minded” as “James” would say. It stings. But, I love to read James because James destroys any thought that my faith in Christ is irrelevant. I cannot read James and believe that God intends for my faith to be some disconnected ethereal feeling. Real faith matters every day. Real faith - the kind of faith in Christ that keeps me talking to Him, worshiping Him, feeding on His words and following Him – will show up in my actions today. Faith connects with orphans and widows. Faith is not hidden inside my head or my heart. It is on display in my life every day.

Today, it’s very popular to ask leaders about “core values”. The questions can probe decision-making in an organization or at a personal level. Perhaps James would ask, “What would your family members, your colleagues and friends say are your core values?” Otherwise, answers are mostly aspirational. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a tractor-trailer rolling down the highway with “We value profit over people” printed on the side! In the Christian life, it’s not easy to confess that we value temporal things over eternal. Sometimes, it’s uncomfortable to be honest about what our daily lives reveal about what’s most important to us. James was not written to make us comfortable. James makes it clear. Don’t uncouple faith and action. Each day is a deposition recorded in the book of my life regarding my faith. “James” is not afraid to look me in the eye today and say, “Show me.”

Monday, May 19, 2014

Jesus doesn't change


Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever.
Hebrews 13:8

The Bible is filled with descriptions of change. Some change is for the better. Some change is for the worse. It’s God plan for us to be changed and to change. Transformation, development, edification and maturation are big words that signal positive change. On the other hand, erosion and destruction refer to a different type of change.

I have come to recognize that change is unavoidable. Perhaps that is why I struggle to grasp the fact that change does not affect Jesus Christ. I change. He does not. Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever. In the backdrop of this powerful statement, the writer of Hebrews described many changes. In the history of Israel, priests would come and go. Repetitive sacrifices were offered for sin. But, there is only one Jesus. He offered one sacrifice for all. One time.

This statement about Jesus impacts me on more than one level. It’s true that Jesus is not subject to a normal lifespan. He is the Savior forever. But, it’s also true that His faithfulness does not waiver. When I compare my faithfulness and fervency for Christ across the proverbial yesterday, today and forever, I can detect some highs and lows. I suspect you can too.

When we fall, Jesus picks us up. He’s busy.
Scot McKnight

If you are like me, you need to be reminded from time to time that circumstances do not affect Jesus. His power is never threatened by a storm. His grace is not overwhelmed by my need. His love has never been stretched too thin. Jesus is the same.

Monday, May 12, 2014

How do you live?


Now the just shall live by faith
Hebrews 10:38

How do you live? It’s a pretty deep question. My immediate response to the question is not an answer. Instead, I am saturated with a flood of follow up questions. What is the trajectory of my life? What will be my legacy? What about providence? What about fulfillment, purpose and peace of mind? To be fair, this big little question needs to find a little more focus.

So, in the interest of focus, I will attempt to filter out some of the concerns and hone in three follow up questions. What do I know? What do I believe? Finally, how do I translate my knowledge and belief into action?

“If I really do believe in God, I will tend to act as if He exists.”
Dallas Willard

The rhythm of my life flows through my knowledge of God, my belief in God and the personal integrity required to live unto God. It’s not an accident that God is mentioned in relationship to knowledge, belief and action. The life of faith has a clear direction. Simply put, if I know God and believe in God, personal integrity demands some evidence in the arena of daily behavior. Is that tough? Sometimes, it can be incredibly challenging. Hence, there is an admonition in Hebrews 10 for me to “draw near” to God.  If I really do believe in God, I will want to be near to God. If I know God, then I will want my actions to reveal the character of Christ. If I belief that life is challenging, I will draw near to whisper/scream “help!”

Ultimately, when I draw near to God my life will not remain unaffected. God gives me life. The Source of life will radiate through me. The writer of Hebrews warned against drawing back. Why draw back? That’s not a difficult question.  It’s that pesky aversion to change. Do I crave God’s transformational work in my life or do I worry about how God’s presence will change me? Have I grown comfortable with the way I am? When fear of change creeps in, it’s a good time to return to my knowledge of God and my belief in God. I know God is God. I know God’s plan and purpose is the best plan and purpose. I believe God is faithful. I belief God is trustworthy. If I really believe God exists, I will draw near.

Monday, May 5, 2014

Useful


I am appealing to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I have become during my imprisonment. Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful both to you and to me.
Philemon 1:10-11

Useful. Have you every had anyone ask you how you want to be remembered? I’d like to think that I will be remembered as “useful”. It’s a great word. I don’t know anything about the parents of Onesimus but for some reason they named him “Onesimus”. I’m pretty sure it won’t show up on the most popular baby names this year. But, in the first century the meaning of this name would not have been lost. Onesimus means “useful”. Onesimus was a slave. At the time Apostle Paul wrote this letter to Philemon, Onesimus was a fugitive. Now the fugitive was going home to Philemon.

Onesimus was returning to Philemon with a couple of new relationships. Paul had become a spiritual father to him and by faith Jesus had become his Lord and Savior. Paul’s request was simple. Paul asked Philemon to receive Onesimus just as he would receive Paul himself. Receive him, not as a fugitive, but as a brother. As Paul sends his request by letter, he passed along some commentary about his spiritual son. Paul explained that Onesimus had lived up to his name. “Formerly, he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful both to you and to me.”

Now, I can return to the process of writing my epithet in advance. Instead of one word, perhaps I can borrow the entire thought from Paul: “formerly useless, but became useful”. Such is the story of grace in my life. I hope I never forget that I am a ransomed slave. My freedom from sin was not free. Jesus paid the full cost for every transgression with His life. Because of Jesus, I am like Onesimus. I enjoy new relationships. God has adopted me. I hope I never forget the journey from slavery to freedom, from sin to God’s family, from useless to useful. Onesimus is great name.

Monday, April 28, 2014

Habits


Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility
Titus 2:6-7

What makes a “habit” a “habit”? Although, I could identify many variables that contribute the formation of a habit, “repetition” is one of the key contributors. If something is “habitual”, it seems to me that it must be repetitive. There is a certain amount of predictability. There is a pattern of behavior. When Paul wrote to Titus, he gave some instructions for “young men”. Even though, Paul’s instructions were addressed to young men, the value is not lost on those of us who are not so young any more. Paul mentioned the importance of developing a pattern of good works.

Read between the lines and you can hear Paul raise an important question. Are you in the habit of doing good works? If you study the Greek text of Paul’s letter, you might just smile. The transliteration for the Greek word for pattern is typos. I must confess that at times I feel more like my life is more like a “typo” than a pattern of good works…. desperately in need of spell check, an editor and immediate correction. That misses the mark of what Paul intends. The idea behind the Greek word typos is that of an impression or imprint made by a forceful stroke. Think about it. My habits, my patterns of behavior make an impression. The impression is twofold. The impression is internal and external. My habits form my character. My habits shape my influence.

I suspect one reason Paul addressed this particular instruction to the “younger” is that habits are forward reaching. Habits have an impact on the future that is seldom considered in the present. That’s a little tricky. It’s unlikely that I will consider the unintended consequences of my habits the first time I choose a behavior. In fact, it’s highly unlikely that I will consider the fact that my own habits may influence other persons that I do not even know. Sometimes, others recognize my habits long before I recognize them myself. Habits are a part of life. Good habits require a heavy investment. But, the dividends are far reaching.

Monday, April 21, 2014

Living the Resurrection Life


“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead”
1 Peter 1:3

What does it mean to be born into a living hope? When Peter wrote about a living hope it’s clear to me that he was describing a new way of life. Though I don’t use the word “begotten” every day, frequently I do think in terms of a new way of living. It’s what Eugene Peterson calls living the “resurrection life”. Peterson’s language reminds me of two critical facts that define my existence. First, it’s a reminder that the significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is not obsolete. Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection change everything. My past is forgiven. My present is vibrant. My future is promising. Second, the resurrection of Jesus issues a call for change. Because I have gained a “living hope”, life is different. I am engaged in a dynamic process. I have been changed and I am being changed by the presence of a living Savior. The challenge is clear. Learn how to mature in the resurrection life. Peterson describes the journey with the risen Savior this way:

When we practice resurrection, we keep company with Jesus, alive and present, who knows where we are going better than we do….The practice of resurrection is an intentional, deliberate decision to believe and participate in resurrection life, life out of death, life that trumps death, life that is the last word, Jesus life…Real life, in a world preoccupied with death and the devil.

The difference between death and life is dramatic. Not only is new life possible, it is God’s plan.

Friday, April 18, 2014

Good Friday


But they shouted, saying, “Crucify Him, crucify Him!”
And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”
Luke 22:21,33-34

Take a look at a group picture. If I am in the picture, my eyes will scan the crowd and find my own face. C’mon, be honest. I suspect I’m not the only one to do that. It’s natural for us to locate ourselves in the crowd.

Sometimes it’s painful to find ourselves. Such is the case today when I reflect on the crucifixion of my Lord. He is my Lord. He is my Savior. I know Jesus died for the sin of the world. But, I cannot be a part of an anonymous crowd conveniently consigned in my mind as “the world” and not find myself in the picture. “Crucify Him!” Yes, those are my words. I cannot afford to believe “All of sinned and fall short of the glory of God” and deny my presence in the “all”. Sin required a sacrifice. My sin is included. If Jesus is the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”, then my sin was in the mix and must be covered. Jesus was crucified among the criminals. I was a criminal who was pardoned. I was a Barabbas who was released and replaced. When I look at the picture, I see myself. I’m trapped in sin and far from God.

The picture enlarges. No longer do I see my face. There is a moment when my focus is torn away from me. It is no longer a time to look. It is a time for me to listen. Have you ever noticed how easy it is to relegate “forgiveness”? Have you pushed forgiveness aside to a safe place? It is a prize virtue. It is like a trophy on a shelf. Something we have received. Something we give when we want to. Something we pull down when it’s convenient. As long as it remains sterile, it’s safe to have. But, forgiveness is not real until it is stained with the blood of real life. The pain was excruciating. His shame was tangible. The moment was unimaginable. God chose to display His mission in raw human terms. God was broken, bleeding and exhausted. Somehow, He was not too tired to speak. On that day the darkness of my soul lost. Darkness could not overcome the Light of the world. Jesus spoke. He spoke to me. “Father, forgive him.” I can no longer bear to look at myself in the picture. Christ’s love becomes a magnet and His words pull me close to the cross today.

Monday, April 14, 2014

Behold the Lamb


The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29)

The Gospel of John is divided into chapters. Chapter 12 is a big chapter. I’m not referring to the length of the chapter as measured by verses. I’m referring to the depth of meaning. This chapter begins with Jesus at the home of friends in Bethany. During the visit, Mary anointed Jesus’ feet with expensive oil and the fragrance filled the room. After that, Jesus traveled from Bethany to Jerusalem and entered the city amidst shouts of adoration. A multitude of voices shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD! The King of Israel!” On the surface, these seem to be two contrasting scenes of worship. One is a very special private worship in a home. The other is an explosion of praise that might best be described as a triumphal procession. In fact, both were signs of preparation. Jesus was preparing to die. While at Bethany, after the fragrance filled the room, Jesus mentions his burial (v. 8). After a vivid description of Jesus’ entry into the city, John provides clarification that the disciples did not understand the significance of the moment until after Jesus went to the cross (v. 16). Then, the poignant words of Jesus bring clarity. “The time has come that the Son of man should be glorified” (v. 23).  Jesus reminded them that a grain of wheat does not produce much grain until it dies. Jesus told them “He who loves his life will lose it” (v. 25).

The words of Fulton Sheen frame the event.

It was the month of Nisan. The Book of Exodus ordered that in this month the Paschal Lamb was to be selected, and four days later was to be taken to the place where it was to be sacrificed. On Palm Sunday, the Lamb was chosen by popular acclaim in Jerusalem; on Good Friday He was crucified.

This week will bring focus to these events. For me, they are so much more than a historical record. Jesus said, “And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself” (v. 32). Today, I am drawn to the cross. I am drawn to Jesus. And I am forever changed.

Monday, April 7, 2014

Love


But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God
2 Timothy 3:1-4

It’s a tough description. This particular stretch in Paul’s letter to Timothy provides a laundry list of misguided attitudes, desire, behaviors and priorities.  In the midst of this list is a great message about love. The message is summarized in two words that are tucked away in the fourth verse: “rather than”. At first these words may seem innocuous. But they are tethered to desire and choice. “Rather than” exposes what happens when a heart is inclined in the wrong direction. Oh, it’s not that Paul is teaching that self, money or pleasure is the great evil. Instead, Paul wants to warn against an unholy competition. Will I love money, rather than God? Will I love myself as if I am in charge of my life? Will I love pleasure so much that I would not consider suffering inconvenience on God’s behalf? Today, it’s easy to live a “rather than” life. But, the cost is immeasurable. Slowly, we forget that the objects of my affection motivate me. If my love for something other than God climbs to the top of my priorities, my life will drift. What do I love? Who do I love? I need to revisit these important questions on a regular basis. And I need to cultivate my love for God.

There is not in the world a kind of life more sweet and delightful than that of a continual conversation with God. Those only can comprehend it who practice and experience it; yet I do not advise you to do it from that motive. It is not pleasure which we ought to seek in this exercise, but let us do it from a principle of love, and because God would have us.
Brother Lawrence

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

God's gifts


For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
2 Timothy 1:7

Wise council is sometimes straightforward and to the point. Such is the case with this particular reminder from Timothy’s spiritual mentor. Paul reminded Timothy to reject fear and embrace the gifts of God. Paul understood that fear paralyzes and love is a catalyst for action. Another wise elder of the early church reminded the recipients of his letter “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18). God’s love is an antidote for unhealthy fear. But, that is only the beginning. Not only does God give us love, He gives us power and a sound mind.

Sometimes power gets a bad name. There are many ways to exercise power. Is it possible to abuse power? Of course it is. I don’t think Paul is reminding Timothy of a God given power to abuse others or dominate the people he served. Instead, I believe the three gifts of God named by Paul in his letter to Timothy are interconnected.  God gives us power. God gives us love. And God gives us a sound mind. Love is at the center of it all. If my life is transformed by the love of God, my use of power will reflect His character. In essence, God empowers me to love others the way He has loved me. Likewise, God’s love will be reflected in the way I engage my mind. God’s love will help govern and illuminate my thoughts. A sound mind contributes to self-control. God love creates a craving for virtuous thinking and distaste for deception. It’s good for me to consider how the love of God impacts my judgment and decision-making. Also, it’s wise for me to recognize that when my thinking is dominated by fear, my perspective is apt to be distorted.

The New Testament is filled with descriptions of gifts that God loves to share with His children. Each is undeserved. The generosity of God is so difficult for me to fathom apart from my trust in His love for me. As a recipient of His love, I feel the weight responsibility that comes with power and a sound mind.

Monday, March 24, 2014

Training Day


1 Timothy 4:7-8
But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. (1 Timothy 4:7-8)

When Paul sent his letter to Timothy, his spiritual son, he included some rich counsel. His deep concern for Timothy is evident. He tells Timothy to “exercise toward godliness”. Paul makes it clear that this type of exercise will be far more beneficial to Timothy than physical training.

So what’s the big deal? Why is it important to exercise toward godliness? I think the benefits are laced throughout Paul’s letters included in the New Testament, but I can think of three.

First, training for godliness establishes a clear direction for my life. It displays my intention to move in a particular direction. In 1 Timothy 4:7, Paul instructs Timothy to reject profane doctrines and teachings. Rejection is a type of withdrawal. It indicates movement away from something. In the same way, Paul encourages Timothy to move toward godliness. My life always has a direction. I am either moving toward Christ or toward things that distract me from Christ.

Second, training presupposes a goal or purpose. Paul has made the goal clear. God’s plan for me is to become more like Jesus. I will become more like Jesus when I exercise toward godliness. Paul uses a physical term to emphasis a purposeful investment of time and energy for a purpose. Christlikeness is the purpose.

Finally, training for godliness reminds me of my personal participation in God’s plan. I cannot disengage from exercise and expect to benefit. I participate in the process. I recognize the challenge. It is not always easy to choose the right direction over the wrong. Sometimes godliness requires me to swim against a strong cultural current. Resistance builds endurance. God is my source of strength. His grace makes it possible. But, I am fully alive in my pursuit of what is pleasing to God.