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Exposed. Genesis 2:25

October 28, 2018 /

 “And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed or embarrassed.”

So why do we lie? Cover-up? What makes us so afraid of being truthful? It’s not the way we were created—so what happened to us? Why the need for the fig leaves…?

The deepest of all mysteries is the origin of evil. Explain sin, and you explain everything. –MacLaren

Today’s teaching was inspired after reading an article on transparency within our primary relationships. At its core, the article asked this pointed question: Is it ever OK to hide anything from those we love? Principally, is it okay to lie? It pointed out that even the most pious among us have lied or still do. It went on to address the often-irrevocable damage that we do to our relationships when we lie. When complete transparency is not our fixed default, our knee-jerk reaction is to lie. We’ll hide what we’ve said or done in the hopes of escaping the consequences we know will surely follow our actions—or lack thereof.  Ask any husband or wife that’s missed their anniversary or their spouse’s birthday, they’ll confirm this.

This article addressed the stress experienced—the amount of energy spent in “hiding” our deceptions…

From not wanting our significant other to have access to our cellphones or computers because of the unacceptable content or conversations found within them, to some secret from our past we’re ashamed to show, or, it’s something we’ve done more recently and are afraid to own up to it. Afraid of the consequence owning it may bring to our doorstep. Our lie is born when we say one thing, feasibly with the best of intentions, yet we do another. Over time our inconsistent behavior erodes others ability to trust us. The article concluded that whatever our hiding might look like, deceit of any kind, in any relationship, will at best test the relationships permanency and, at its worst—will end it. Broken trust often leads to feelings of betrayal, anger, hurt, fear, and, confusion. This article pointed the reader towards a variety of reasons about why peoples lie: these reasons ranged from fear of rejection, to insecurity, anger, and entitlement issues, to narcissism, inferiority, right on down to unresolved early childhood trauma.

That’s how the world chooses to frame our lies…

It leaves us an out—a reason or reasons why we do what we do. And, sometimes, those reasons appear valid, sometimes, even kind. Yet, the article wasn’t asking if each of the potential “whys” it offered were valid. The article was forcing me to answer a fundamental question, “is it ever okay to lie?”

Conversely, as I pondered this question, it led me to think about my relationship with God. Have I ever lied to God? Sadly, my answer was yes. I’ve treated God’s trust in me as casually as I’ve treated that of others. How grateful I am for His Blood!

Adam and Eve understand how I feel. Of this I’m certain…

We’re told in His Word that God is all-knowing. We hear this attribute referred to as His being Omniscient. Psalm 44:21 informs us that God knows, “the secrets of our hearts”. So much for our hiding anything from God. From men maybe, never from God. He knows what we’re going to think before we ever think it—never mind before we do the thing! He knows the intentions of our hearts. So why would we want to? Hide anything from God I mean. What deludes us into thinking that we can? I have to wonder if Adam and Eve knew this about God? About His being Omniscient? After all, they shared a loving relationship with Him. Walked and talked with Him daily in the garden. So, you’d think they knew this about Him. And, if they did—why lie to Him? Why hide themselves? Why play the blame game? Why use something He had created and called good to cover-up those lies—their shame? Why tell God, “You’re not allowed to check our cellphones. Look through our pics— laptops, into our bank accounts? Why tell God, I trust you but. I give you my life except. Whatever label the world may attach to our rationale for lying—for blaming others or trying to cover-up our stuff—the Word of God calls it what it is, sin. Plain and simple. We can try to dress it up—but at its core it’s sin that causes us to lie.

We choose to lie—we’re not forced to…

“Did God really say?” That one question seemingly changed our destiny. Yet, God used the enemies lie, in part, that His Truth might be revealed to the world. God is Sovereign. He can use anyone or anything He so chooses to carry out His will. Does that mean it is right or good to lie? Emphatically, no. Does it then mean that God is a liar or capable of lying? Again, emphatically, no. It’s not in God’s character to lie. God is Immutable; therefore, He has never, nor will He ever be able to lie. However, being Omniscient, God knew that our first parents would not only lie about their sin—He also knew that they’d try to cover them up. That they’d avoid taking responsibility for what they’d done by playing the blame game. And, ultimately, that they’d try to pin their sin not only on each other but more, on God Himself! “The man said, “The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.” Then the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?” The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate” Genesis 3: 11-13.

Among the various “reasons” listed in the article about why peoples lie, pride never made the list. Wanting to be like God never made the list. Wanting to be the captain of our own ship never made the list. “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it” –Genesis 3:5-6. Only a brief time before this both the man and his wife were naked together in the garden and they were unashamed—untainted. The moment they chose to disobey what God had commanded them and listen instead to what the crafty serpent had to say, they recognized they were standing bare before each other. In an instant, their nakedness was no longer a natural state for them and they ran to stitch leaves together to cover themselves up. “Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves” –Genesis 3:7.

Isn’t this what we do when we’re aware of our wrong doing being exposed? We try to avoid taking responsibility for our lies too…

Unless we decide in our hearts to follow God, His Laws and precepts—regardless the cost, we, like those mentioned in the article I read, will always run towards the “reasons” why we did a thing. We’ll forever run towards our justifications for betraying a loved one—breaking a heart, destroying a friendship—a marriage, ruining a partnership, obliterating trust, rather than learning to simply run towards the Truth; to just plain own up. We’ll never get to the place in ourselves—with God, where we’ll place greater worth on valuing other over self, on integrity, transparency, or building relationship, over self-preservation, momentary gain, and lying. We who claim to be followers of Christ are responsible for following Jesus’s lead in obeying Gods Laws. Did we forget that He didn’t come to destroy one iota of the Law, rather to fulfill it?

Adam and Eve walked with God and had no idea they were naked until the moment a lie was told. They were innocent. Suddenly, their eyes were opened, as was their awareness that they needed to cover-up. Deceit will always open our eyes to everything but the Truth. And guilt will send us running for fig leaves—quick fixes to help escape consequence. Only God covers us with what is lasting and pure, with Jesus, He that was intended from the foundation of the world to be the only acceptable place one should hide… “The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them” Genesis 3:21.

Friend, if you are here today the Holy Spirit of God called you here. He loves you and wants to open your eyes to His Truth. Only He can do this for you. You’ve come this far—please, ask Jesus into your heart now, while it’s still today. “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life” –Ephesians 2:8-10.

Fixed Obedience.. John 21:15

October 14, 2018 /

 “‘So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these [others do—with total commitment and devotion]?'”

Luke 14:25-34 clearly lays out Jesus’ unadorned, blunt definition of what being His disciple entails—at least in part. Bottom line—it’s sacrificial at its core. That’s not so surprising when we consider that we, His disciples, are the students of a sacrificial King. It would rightly follow then, that we too would be expected to sacrifice…

There is a moment after the worship has ended and the sermon’s been preached when emotions are running high. In researching Luke 14, it became clear that Jesus was actually thinning out the throng of would be applicants. He knew many were following on feet fueled strictly by emotion. Folks consciences have perhaps been pricked—they’ve been stirred. Moments later they are on their way to the altar saying yes to Jesus. Yes, I’ll follow you. Yes, I’ll do whatever it is you ask of me. Yes.

They say yes having no clue what saying yes to Jesus will actually cost them.

They failed to read the fine print on their application for discipleship. Often they are simply following  their feelings, or, equally, they’re blindly following another’s lead. They’d gotten caught up, as so many do, in the emotion and awe of seeing miracles performed—seeing friends and loved ones healed and, they wanted some of that for themselves. Who can blame them? Wouldn’t you want a healing if you or your wife, child, brother or sister, mother were sick? Yet, Jesus knew anyone who came after Him fueled solely by emotion would eventually die on the battlefield. Mortally wounded in the inevitable war waged against their pseudo-faith. “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?” 1 Corinthians 13:5.

Speaking the Truth in love He tells them this:

Here’s what it’s going to cost you to follow me; I demand your complete allegiance—your undivided loyalty. For some, following me will split your family, marriage, relationships in two. For others, not so much. Yet, even among those “not so much” there will still be moments when what I’ve asked you to do, where I’ve asked you to go, will not line up with the hopes, dreams, plans, or desires of those who love you. Those who think they know best. They will demand you follow their ways and not mine. Whose voice will you follow then? See here’s the thing, if it’s not mine, then it’s best you just stay in your seat. I get it, I do. I understand emotions better than anyone—I created them. Lived with them just as you do. But, hear me, they can’t be trusted and, they can get you killed. I know that’s hard for you to understand right now, your sight is limited to the here and now—this moment only. In that, I have a great advantage seeing your end as well as your beginning. Nonetheless, I assure you it isn’t your time—yet. Trust me and live another day. I am not finished with you. Trust my timing…

Some in that crowd had ears that heard and they decided in their hearts that, come what may, they would do whatever this Jesus asked of them. Most however, turned away. And, as foretold, over time their great swells of emotion ebbed, and life returned to normal. Even so, Jesus knew the few He had spoken to. He knows His sheep will hear His voice and follow Him anywhere He leads them…

Being a just God however, everyone must be equally informed of the cost of loving Him. Hence the Law and the Prophets. The cost of saying yes to Him—of dying that they may live. Of giving all away that they might have all that really matters. That they may not be found as a half-finished work, a mere shell of a building. A Shell constructed by one who builds with their emotions in the one hand and their lack of knowledge—gnosis, in the other.. One lacking a sure foundation and the strength necessary to weather the storms. Ours is not a low-cost, low-risk endeavor. Rather, being a disciple of Jesus, having faith in Him, is an all-in adventure. But make no mistake, there will be perilous moments along the way.  “‘Many will say to Me on that day [when I judge them], ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, and driven out demons in Your name, and done many miracles in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them publicly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me [you are banished from My presence], you who act wickedly [disregarding My commands]’ Matthew 7:22-23

Jesus will always have those that are willingly to follow Him from a safe distance. Crosses are not easy to carry, and flesh-piercing nails don’t play! Following this Jesus will cost you your life. A small price to pay for gaining your life…

If this the first time your hearing this little lamb—I know, it’s shocking—but I love you too much to leave you ignorant. More, Jesus loves you so much He made sure I wrote this. He also made sure you were here today to read it. See, He didn’t want you to take one more step in your pseudo-faith, go one more day, without knowing; “the Truth the whole Truth and nothing but the Truth.” Why? He has a plan for your life. And, He’s about to move in it. You have heard His voice. He has singled you out of the crowd of emotional followers. He has called you to be a true believer—a disciple. It’s why you’re struggling right now. “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, or lose heart when He rebukes you. For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises everyone He receives as a son.” Endure suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father..? Hebrews 12:5-7. Take heart beloved, your application has been Hand selected—the job of disciple is yours. If, you’ll pick up your cross and follow wherever He may lead.

He’s got you! Just do as He asks. Do all that He asks. And, continue to follow Him. If you’re thinking to yourself, “I don’t deserve this” you’re absolutely spot on.  No one deserves this unfathomable honor! However, you’re in good company. Neither David or Peter or Paul. Neither did Abraham, Noah or Rehab the prostitute. None of them believed they deserved Jesus either. And yet…

Peter will vouch for me on this.

I believe the reason the Holy Spirit led me to our Scripture verse rather than one taken from Luke 14 is because of the lesson we witness in its reading. Peter, hand-chosen by God, is being restored to ministry. Peter, this legend of the faith—this vessel of divine revelation, this courageous father of the faith chosen to help birth God’s Church fell—and he fell hard. After having his great revelation of who Jesus was, after having walked and talked and eaten and lived with Him for three years, after having witnessed His miracles, after having performing miracles of his own—Peter not only denied knowing Jesus three times; He ran off and abandoned Him during His final hours on earth!

Peter left Jesus high and dry all-the-while Jesus was dripping the Blood that had saved Peter.  Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, “I don’t know the man!” Immediately a rooster crowed. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly. Matthew 26:74-75.

Failure does not mean your finished. More, that God is finished with you. Three times Peter denied knowing Christ. And three times Christ in turn asked Peter, “do you love me.” Agape love that is. Greek for unconditional love. Jesus was using these final moments with His friend to both restore Peter and to teach him. Unbeknownst to Peter however, Jesus was stretching him for the weight of the ministry he was about to walk into. And, if one’s ear is keen they’ll hear Jesus’ prophetic Word spoken over their life as well. Restoration is coming!

From this moment in Scripture on, until he was martyred for Christ’s sake, Peter followed after the example of fixed obedience set in place by His Lord…

Yet, God saw fit to use the whole of Peter’s earthly life to extract every last drop of promise He had placed in him. God used his every sin, his betrayal, lies, every moment he’d displayed lack of faith; God used to crush Peters flesh that He would extract from him the pure oil that He had placed within Him.  His restoration completed in Christ, Peter finally heard, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little, I will put you in charge of many things; share in the joy of your master” –Matthew 25:23-24.

Be encouraged today my friend. Fix your eyes on the Author and Finisher of your faith. Fix your heart on Jesus. Allow Him to remove your dross. Every sin of rebellion, unbelief, idolatry, every impurity that remains in you. And, let no man, job, wife, child, desire, or dream deter you from putting Jesus first—above all else. Those in the crowd were followers Jesus however was speaking to His disciples. Let those who have ears hear. “A large crowd was following Jesus. He turned around and said to them, “If you want to be my disciple, you must, by comparison, hate everyone else—your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple” –Luke 14:25-27. Emphasis my own.

Friend whether you’re here for the first time or the tenth time, it’s no accident. Jesus is speaking to you. What is it He’s asking you to turn from, to let go of, that you might fully turn towards Him? Ask, and He will be faithful to show you—that is, if He hasn’t already. And, if you’re here today and have not yet accepted Christ, now is the time. Today is the day. Jesus is calling you. Won’t you answer His call?

The answer to this one question will change your life. “…do you love Me more than these [others do—with total commitment and devotion]?

 

Growth Spurts. Romans 8:29

September 30, 2018 /

 “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters”

We have always been His…

From our inception—long before our conception, we were chosen in Christ. Regardless if our parents planned it that way or not. God knew. He had a plan for us. A fixed purpose was in place long before our wet, bloodied heads broke free from our mother’s womb. Before one breath was ever taken—one word uttered, we had a purpose. You have a purpose. That’s a Word for someone today.

We were created to hold down a specific spot in the plan God has for His creation. One created, carved out, exclusively for us. A plan far greater and higher and deeper and wider than we’ll ever understand this side of heaven. Yet, it’s nonetheless true, this plan He’s unfolding. And, mind-bogglingly, we entered the world ready for it! Complete, I mean. We came in equipped to fulfill His plan for our lives. We had every gift, experience, word, action, thought, desire, every-thing we’d ever need to fulfill our purpose within us before we even entered this life—in seed form that is. A little kernel was firmly rooted deep within our core—a divine promise just waiting on God’s timing to be called forth. Think of a farmer seeding his field here. It’s a process. First comes the kernels, then the corn stalks. Their embryonic heads—mere sprouts, poking tentatively upwards. Towards what, they know not, yet they must press forward—must grow. Something far greater than themselves propelling them upward—ever upward. So too is our God calling us to come up higher…

Each seed unique. Breaking the surface of the soil at the precise moment it was intended to. As it is with seed-time and harvest—so too with us.

Everything happens in stages. Everything having its assigned time. Even the seemingly insignificant stages. Those moments when it looks like—from our perspective anyway, nothing’s happening—no growth is occurring. Our eyes are locked on the soils surface waiting for something to happen. Wanting some tiny spec of green to surface, assuaging the concerns that we might not have gotten this right. Did I give it enough water? Has it been getting enough sun? Is it in the right soil? If we desire this for ourselves, for our seed to be healthy, to bloom into a vibrant, fecund plant; just imagine how much more the One who sent His only Son to die for us? How much more God? The One who paid the price to buy our seed that it might grow! His plan is for us to flourish, producing fruit in abundance. It’s why His seed was put into us to begin with—that it might produce something others may benefit from. We are, after all, created in the image of the One who gave it all so that “those who will” may have life and have it in abundance.

We are supposed to be like Him—this First Fruit.

He came into the world perfect, sinless, without blemish. One day we too will be as He has always been. Until then however, we’re ever growing into His image and likeness. Remember, seeds don’t become fully matured plants overnight.

“He (Jesus) also said, “’This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground.  Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head.  As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come” Mark 4:26-29. Some crack open and show their first roots—white, hair like roots, within 24 to 48 hours after planting. For others, it takes 3 or more days. And for yet others still, it’s not unusual for 7 days to pass before signs will appear indicating that germination has occurred. And, as a farmer purchases the seed and decides when and where he’ll plant it, so too are we chosen by God.

Being called by Him is a three-fold act. And, He both initiates and sustains it. It involves: 1) Foreknowledge. 2) Being predestined, and finally 3) the life-long process of being conformed to the image of Christ. The first two of these taking place outside of our knowledge—our awareness. We were foreknown by God, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations” –Jeremiah 1:5. And, in that foreknowledge, we were also predestined. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” Jeremiah 29:11. The Apostle Paul says it this way in Romans 8:30. “And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.” We did not choose God—God chose us. And those He chose He is conforming into the image and likeness of His Son. It’s a lifelong process; yet one that’s certain.

This call on our lives—this unfathomable privilege, this honor beyond compare is effective.

What does that mean? Being chosen by God—called by Him, is the result of God alone bringing about what He demands. As John Piper explains, “It’s a call that creates what it commands. It’s a call like “Lazarus, come forth!” and the dead man lives.”

Just as we did not save ourselves—did not choose to love God, to follow Him; so too we do not decide what type of plant we will become. Nor do we get to decide when, in what season of our lives, any of this might happen. For some, as with the germinating seeds mentioned above, it happens in their youth or teenaged years, For others, in adulthood. And for others still, not until their later years. Being conformed to the image of Christ is not a thing I do to myself—though I have a sure responsibility in the process, it is accomplished by the power of the One who choose me. I am saved by sovereign grace—my rich soil, my shield and covering, my nourishment and protection, my eternal wellspring; from which I grow deep, in seasons and spurts, from inception to resurrection. “…for you have been born again [that is, reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, and set apart for His purpose] not of seed which is perishable but [from that which is] imperishable and immortal, that is, through the living and everlasting word of God” –1 Peter 1:23.

Friend if this is your first time visiting us let me say welcome and thank you for checking us out! More, know that it was God who brought you here for this message, for that one word that jumped up at you and took root in your belly, yes, that is all God’s doing! If you’ve yet to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior know that there is no better time than right now! He’s calling out to you. He’s chosen you to hear His voice over my pale words. Won’t you say yes to Him? It’s simple really. Just ask Him to come into your heart and change you, awaken you, crack your shell that you may begin to grow in Him. And admit to Him that you’re a sinner in need of  Him. The Savior of the world. The Lord of the harvest…

Complete Submergence. Luke 12:50

September 16, 2018 /

 “But I have a baptism to undergo, and how it consumes me until it is finished!”

A new season is being birthed. And, birthing is a very, messy and painful business. But oh, when that baby comes!

I’d heard it said recently that there’s a moment in each believer’s life where their faith must cross over from doctrinal, head knowledge, a learned faith—into a practical, determined faith. A faith that’s been tested. One that’s been tried in the fire of adversity, of loss. Tried when God says no. When doors are closed and no hint of God’s voice can be heard nor His presence felt.  Faith formed in moments of being pruned so deeply there is no end to our tears. The awakening of such tenacious faith however, often occurs only in the crucible of adversity…

Crucible. A Word that dropped into my Spirit back in early July of this year. And it’s been sitting in my belly until now. It’s defined as follows: a situation of severe trial, or in which different elements interact, leading to the creation of something new: a severe test: a place or situation in which concentrated forces interact to cause or influence change or development.

I am in such a crucible now. Many of us are. It’s one of those seasons when God is requiring us to dig deeper.  When the “fluff” of casual faith is being sifted away; leaving behind instead, a tried and tangible faith. Truth is, it’s so much easier to preach the Cross of Christ—teach about His Cross—than it is to heft it up on our own all too fragile shoulder and carry it. And yet, for those of us found in Him—called by His glorious name, we are expected to do just that. Carry our Cross that is. “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me…” –Matthew 16:42. And, although His life-extracting Cross was His alone to carry Jesus was never alone. The Father had ensured He’d been given a helper. Someone who would help Him carry the weigh of His cross. He does the same for us as well. “And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus” –Luke 23:26. The weight of our cross forces us to release the last vestiges of our will. Gods finger on any area of our lives will have that affect on us. And, in our moments of complete surrender the Holy Spirit comes. Our Helper places His shoulder under the weight of our cross. Making the carrying of it possible, sufferable.

So why then, are we so befuddled—feel so betrayed, let down when we’re asked by God to pick up our cross and carry it for a season? Why is this such a shocking thing to us? I by no means know the full answer to the question I’m posing. My purpose in asking it at all is simply to provoke us to think. To drive us into seeking the Lords answer in prayer. To go searching the Scriptures for answers. To start a conversation that might shake us from our sleep. Re-minding us that we were each told one day we’d have a cross of our own to carry. But we forget. Become comfortable in our every-day-ness until the moment that is that our waters are troubled!

Yet there is one thing I know about cross carrying. Of being asked to carry a cross I mean. And it’s this: It is all about Love.  His great Love for us. The Cross is a tangible reminder of love having come and revealed Himself to us—to me. It’s a privilege too. The Cross is our highest example. The most complete definition of Love we have—or will ever know. And we are blessed—honored, to be trusted in having any part of it all…

To be a partaker of His Cross is like witnessing a dad sitting across from his beloved child and, while looking them straight in their eyes, pouring out his heart to them. Filling their ears with every desire he has for them. Every hope and dream he’s ever thought towards them. Lovingly detailing every iota of promise, purpose, and potential he sees within them and all that he would do and give to help draw it out of them; being blessed himself by witnessing their gifts and talents used to change the world He alone created for them, one person at a time. But don’t take my word for it. Pick up your Bible and check out the conversations for yourself. Read the part that details the greatest definition of love ever written: “For God so loved the world…”.

Jesus knew the Cross would be agonizing. Extracting. He knew in the end it would kill Him. Rather, it would kill His flesh…

Nothing could touch His Life. From the beginning that has always been One with the Father. Guarded for all eternity. A sure promise. An Amen. But His flesh, His flesh would have to die in order that the purpose of His birth be accomplished, fulfilled. He would have to completely immerse His will into the Fathers. There is no other way to accomplish the perfect will of God. No half measure will ever suffice. “It was a perfect sacrifice by a perfect person to perfect some very imperfect people. By that single offering, he did everything that needed to be done for everyone who takes part in the purifying process” –Hebrews 10:14 MSG Bible. So too it is—must be, with us. A relationship with God is all or nothing. Done correctly, it’s an “all-in” commitment. The two become One flesh. His Flesh. Our crosses are intended to kill our flesh that we might, like gold being refined in the fiery furnace, be poured out, rid of those impurities that tarnish—preventing the pure image of Jesus from being seen in and through us to a lost a dying world.

We want the benefits of such a love: the salvation He died to offer us. The blessings and favor and forgiveness a relationship that results from such a love offers. But in our humanity, we run from—reel under, the weight of carrying its cross. We lose sleep. We’re tormented. We question and plead, bargaining with God to remove this cup of suffering from us. I know I did. Jesus understands this about us. He knows our weakness. Knows that though we love God—want to follow Him, we’re weak, frail, incapable, outside of Him to do anything—carry anything, of eternal value. “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are–yet he did not sin” —Hebrews 4:15. He understands that the harassment and oppression of anticipation can be as heavy, sometimes more so, than the real thing itself. He understands we just want it to be over. To have passed our test. To have this season behind us. He understands that though we want to do the will of God, the journey towards its end is agonizing. He, better than us all, understands agony. Hence, our Scripture verse today. “But I have a baptism to undergo, and how it consumes me until it is finished!” –Luke 12:50

He understands we want to do the will of God all-the-while hoping that His will might somehow be fulfilled minus the pain. “And going a little farther, He threw Himself upon the ground on His face and prayed saying, My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will [not what I desire], but as You will and desire” –Matthew 26:39. Yet it’s through Jesus’ impending death, in His total surrender, that we learn some of our greatest lessons about how to truly live. “…not what I will [not what I desire], but as You will and desire.” Jesus teaches us just how to drink of the cup that has been passed to us. A cup which, regardless of its bitterness, we are blessed to partake of. “Jesus told Peter, “Put your sword away. Shouldn’t I drink the cup [of suffering] that my Father has given me?” –John 18:11

After we have prayed, we must obey. And as surely as Sunday morning came and His tomb was found empty, so too are we guaranteed our own victory over all suffering. But first—we must completely submerge our will, ourselves, into Him…

Friend, if you have not repented of your sins, not asked God into your life as your Lord and Savior, please do it today! He loves you regardless of the sins you’ve committed. I am sure of this because His Word is True. Because He forgave one such as me, with all of my many sins. Call out to Him today…

 

Not by Sight…Habakkuk 3:17-19

September 9, 2018 /

 “Though the fig tree does not blossom And there is no fruit on the vines, Though the yield of the olive fails And the fields produce no food, Though the flock is cut off from the fold And there are no cattle in the stalls, Yet I will [choose to] rejoice in the Lord;I will [choose to] shout in exultation in the [victorious] God of my salvation! The Lord God is my strength [my source of courage, my invincible army]; He has made my feet [steady and sure] like hinds’ feet And makes me walk [forward with spiritual confidence] on my high places [of challenge and responsibility].”

So, what do you do when God chooses to cut away what you’ve become accustomed to? When you hear doors closing in the Spirit realm? When He asks you to leave your home, church, family, friends, and job to follow Him—yet again? When He leads you to what you know is only a “temporary” shelter, a right-now place to call home; giving you no further instructions—no clear direction?

You go.

You just do it and then you wait. With legs shaking and tears flowing—with a million questions swirling around in your head and with dragons, not butterflies, in your belly—you say, “Yes Lord.” And, if you’re anything like me, you quickly start asking the Holy Spirit to show you the hidden sin in your life. There must be something wrong after all—right? Why else is God stripping everything I care about away from me?

The answer? Love.

That is what love does. True Love.

Real love never lets you settle for second best…

Love doesn’t allow you to wither on the vine. Love prunes you that you might bloom—again and again. Love seeks your highest good. Love wants the absolute best for you. Can that be painful? You betcha! A little scary—oh yeah! But, it’s not as scary as having nails driven through your hands and feet. Mercifully, I was not asked for such a sacrifice. He simply asked  that I return some stuff that I’d been given to use. It’s in these times of being stripped down, deeply pruned—re-calibrated, these moments when God asks us to “return” just a few of the many gifts He’s blessed us with; things such as our home, job, church family, money, health, etc., when we can incorrectly assume we’re being punished for some sin, some short-coming, some-thing.

Yet, the odd beauty of it is: in those very moments of questioning, of wrestling and searching is when we must draw closer to God—as backward as that may feel. Why? Because He is desiring for us, wanting us, to draw closer to Him. Look more like Him. Most of us instinctively flee from anyone or anything that we feel is causing us discomfort or pain. Resist that urge where God is concerned. He can be fully trusted. Instead, turn and run towards Him!In our flesh it’s our default response to place blame.  Our first parents did it to each other—placed blame that is. Blame is combated best by Truth. It must be combated by Truth if we are to grow and flourish in all God has for us. It’s during these wilderness seasons—these “moments of seeming estrangement”, of stripping away, of barrenness, that it remains crucial to hang on, white-knuckled fisted, to every-single-thing that God has ever revealed to us concerning Himself and His love, plans, and intentions for our lives. Why? Because we may be tempted to let go. To give up, throw in the towel. Yet what may appear as a loss, may actually be a set-up for our next level—continued growth in Him. Oxymoronic I now, but true nonetheless. Just hold on! So often in Scripture we witness this example of loosing that we might gain. Becoming poor to be rich, blind to see, empty in order to be full…

Nonetheless, it is in these sacred moments of surrender that our intimacy with God grows richer, deeper, and our trust in Him is strengthened. Where the milk of the Word is left behind—replaced by solid food. Growth occurs. New levels of faith are required to let go and step out when everything in our flesh is screaming for us to hang on tighter than ever! Yesterdays faith won’t do today. God is doing a new thing. In these moments of surrender, God teaches us to be water-walkers. To Trust Him anew. Peter will vouch for this. So will Job, Abraham, Moses, and David. Elijah too… “the LORD appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore, I have continued to extend faithful love to you” –Jeremiah 31:3. Yet before any of us gets too heady—begins to take ourselves too seriously, crediting our following His call to our own abilities, allow me to point out (to myself first) that it is God alone who enables us to act so boldly. Outside of Him we can do nothing of eternal value. It is God alone who prompts us. Enlivening us. Calling us to follow Him. Stirring up within us the very desires, thoughts, and actions required to answer His call. Stirrings that most surely appear to be of our own creation. Ideas to do this or that—say this thing, or the other. He alone nudges us from our torpor; our satisfied sameness; just as an Eagle nudges the chicks she cares for out of the nest they’ve gotten all-to-comfortable in.

Comfort kills our growth—content causes us to stop chasing after God…

All the while it is—and has always has been, the Holy Spirit within us that’s been leading and guiding us, stirring us up, directing us towards all that God has already done for us. Prepared for us. “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him” –Philippians 2:13. Remember, He does not send us anywhere He’s not already been. Going before us as a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, He clears the path for us to walk upon. Yet, as our Scripture indicates, even if this God who has given us everything—literally, chooses not to bless us with one thing more or asks us to return everything He’s already given us, unto our very lives; our answer to His every request should still be—must be, a resounding yes! Even if our voice is trembling in our assent. Christ alone is all we ever need and far more than we deserve. His power, not ours. Gifts or no gifts. Favor or no favor. Blessings or no blessings. To have been chosen by God is more than any man, I speak for myself here, could ever hope for. And was certainly never expected! Holiness came straight to the well to find one such as me. Into the mire of the pig pen! “Not that we are sufficiently qualified in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency and qualifications come from God” –2 Corinthians 3:5

So, what does one do—what did I do, when He asked me to leave a new home, my Church family—my son and granddaughter, job, my familiar everything—the place I most certainly thought I’d be going home from, and follow Him once again? What do you do when He asks you to trust Him and walk on water?

First I gulped! I cried a little—it hurts to let go. Then I stepped out…

And gradually, through His loving-kindness, His infinite mercy and undeserved grace, He calmed the tumultuous waters of change that all too often presented themselves as life-threatening. And His peace was restored—calm. Mind you, He never got nervous, stirred up, or cried. I did that. I did it the second I took my eyes off of Him and focused them instead on all the change that was swirling around me! “Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” –Matthew 14:29-31

I still don’t know, as of this writing, where I will end up—or what it is He’s called me back here for?

I know this a week in: He is teaching me how to care less about all the stuff, people too—their opinions of me that is. How better to focus my time and energy on Him instead—be with Him. To live with my hands wide open—fingers stretched, holding everything loosely. Every-thing. And I can’t image being in a better place than here, freed from distractions, to sit with Him—and share with you. Trusting, that in due season, He will show me, allow me to see, His purpose for leading me here. And restoration of the “thing'” will come. But even if they don’t…“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” –Galatians 2:20.

Until then—I will stand firm in the faith He has blessed me with and I will praise Him. Simply because He is…

Friend if you’re here for the first time know that it’s Jesus who’s led you here. If you’ve not confessed your sins to Him, today is the day—now is the time. Won’t you ask Him to be your Lord? He loves you. He has a great plan for your life. It’s never too late to call on God. But why wait? No man is promised tomorrow…

 

 

A Promise In The Storm… Matthew 14:27

August 26, 2018 /

“But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!'”

“I am here!” A promise from God in the midst of your storm—your trial, is the only anchor that will surely keep you from going adrift…

My suitcases are packed. Boxes shipped, my ticket long purchased. I’m due to get on the plane Saturday night…

I had made peace with leaving my beloved Aina. Hawaii Nei, my other home. One need not be born in a place for it to be their home. Now, just days before I’m scheduled to leave for my return to the mainland hurricane Lane has hit our Island chain. Red, raging, swirling models of a “catastrophic category 5 hurricane” flashing on everything that can flash. Island wide tsunami warning sirens alerting us all that danger is on the way—is imminent;to say nothing of the obviousness of nature’s warnings. Its lashing, tree bending winds. Rain that’s causing once trickling streams to turn into raging Niagara’s overnight. Yup. This is happening live…

So, what do you do then when the unexpected storm hits you?

When every fear-filled voice you hear—your own included, is warning; “danger’s about to come and kick in your door!” This is no polite little storm. Well, first, you catch your breath. When an unexpected storm threatens your life it most certainly can take our breath away. It’s OK. Acknowledge the feelings—the fear of the unknown. Just don’t live there. Give yourself time to process what you’re facing.

If you try to get rid of fear and anger without knowing their meaning, they will grow stronger and return. –Deepak Chopra

But please, in the midst of your fear stop and pray. Even if all you can manage is; “God I’m afraid. I don’t know what to do with this. Help me please!” Those simple words invite God in. They connect you to the source of your strength. Yes, certainly you heed the advice, the professionals: you shop for food, close windows, seek shelter, yes you need to apply the wisdom God has given you. What you shouldn’t do, what isn’t wise, is to answer the door each time fear incessantly knocks on it with every gust of wind or downed branch. That is simply crazy making. It’s a thief…

Is it easy to tear your eyes away from the flashing screens, text alerts, and bending trees? Away from that doctor’s report, those divorce papers, or that grave stone? Away from the bottle of whatever that’s calling your name? No. No it’s not. For anyone that has ever been through such a storm—whether natural, physical, or emotional, you know exactly what I’m talking about…

For those that have not—pay attention. The storm is coming. I’m not being a naysayer. It’s just life. Storms are inevitable. They take courage to endure. They take faith because every now and again, a storm will hit with such unforeseen, unexpected intensity that the absolute best you can do is: do the stuff on the list and then surrender to the process.

Lean into the fact that you are not—are not, repeat, you are not in control. Prayerfully, you know the One who is.

The One who speaks to the storms—even the category Five storms that hit us unexpectantly. God alone telling them to be still. Notice I didn’t say He removes the storm—nor it’s often ravaging effects. He didn’t get to skip the ravaging effects of His storm, the Cross—so who are we, His followers, to think we should escape the effects of ours? Sometime the storm is exactly what we need in order that we arrive safely at our next destination. Oxymoron I know. But if you’ve known God for any length of time, you know what I’m saying is true. Sometimes the storms of life are God’s way of rerouting us. Now, does that mean He caused our storm? No. not necessarily. But maybe? Or maybe He simply allowed it to fulfill His plans—His purpose for our life. He most certainly knew it was coming. So, He put a plan in place that would benefit you, me, each of us—In the end. What I’m saying is: rather than removing the storms, He gives us the peace and the strength we need to walk through them. To not fold because of them. He walks through them with us—hand-in hand.

The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek. – Joseph Campbell

I had absolutely no intention of posting again until September 9th. Until I had reached the mainland and had a moment to walk through this transition, to acclimate a bit—get my footing. Once again, God had a different plan. I’m typing this as I’m watching palm trees bowing at the waist. While I listen to the music of the wind—a mighty rushing wind. His voice truly does rise above all others if we are listening. “Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track” –Proverbs 3:6.

I’ll keep this short. If you’re facing a storm today—whatever its size or intensity, please, listen for the voice of God in the midst of it. I promise you—I promise you, He’s right there with you. “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still” –Exodus 14:14.

And, if you’ve not met this God that speaks to the storms—now is the time. Don’t go through one more storm on your own. Repent of your sins, say your sorry and mean it. Ask God to come into your life as Lord and Savior. Let God speak peace—not perfection, not your expected, desired outcome—but peace, into your storm. “Jesus stood up and gave a command to the wind and the water. He said, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind stopped, and the lake became calm’” –Mark 4:39.

Delayed does not mean denied! Trust God. I had my plan in place. But so, did God… “A man’s mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps and makes them sure” –Proverbs 16:9.

 

Baby Sips. Isaiah 43:13

August 19, 2018 /

 

 “Even from eternity I am He, And there is no one who can rescue from My hand; I act, and who can revoke or reverse it?”

Before any created thing ever even heard my Voice as I stood over the void. Before time, as it exists in your finite minds, was, I have always been.

You will never be able to undo the plans I have for you…

I don’t know about you, but for me, that’s a lot to take in. I imagine even those we consider “fathers of the faith”, those we place in the “super-Christian” category paused for a moment when taking a drink from that very tall glass?

Baby sips. That is how we must drink in—absorb, the enormity of our God. His scope. And he said, “Please, show me Your glory.” Then He said, “I will make all My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before you. I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.”  But He said, “You cannot see My face; for no man shall see Me, and live”  Exodus 33:18-20.

He alone knows what we’re able of taking in at one sitting. And He alone knows what we can’t take in. What will stop us from flourishing. This Omnipresent, Omnipotent, Omniscient God offers us sips, recurrently, consistently over our lifetimes, allowing the densely concentrated richness of Himself to nourish, sustain, and increase our understating of just who this God we love, is. Consequently, through this sipping—via this gnosis, we grow as He Expands—increases, our capacity to take in more of Him. And so it goes with each new sip. As it is with our sanctification, so it is with our “understanding” of this unplumbed God. “Behold, these are but the outskirts of his ways, and how small a whisper do we hear of him! But the thunder of his power who can understand?” –Job 26:14.

When we allow the Truth of this passage of Scripture to wash over us—to wash us clean of our usual “everyday” seeing; in an instant of divine revelation, divine clarity, we’re brought face to face with its purity, its holiness, and its scale. Then again, how could God’s Word be anything other than what He is? And, in that transformative moment of revelation—of awakening from our every-day-ness, we cannot help but be both humbled and enlarged—in chorus.

Suddenly this Sovereign God of the universe—the universe, shows up. Dwells among us. Stirs up our bellies. Our inner-most parts.This same God whom we all too often try to condense, make small to fit our desire for the route one-point-five-hour version of the God we seek on Sunday mornings, just shows up! Filling us with just the faintest whisper of His presence. And we are left silent, awe-struck, left limp, splayed out before Him. Coming away from this “unscheduled” encounter with just the slightest clue, the slightest clue, into just how powerful this God we serve is. He comes  to us when He chooses and, He leaves us in much the same way. “When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon, and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?” –Psalm 8:3-4.

Job knew this all too well.

In one day, out of what I’m sure felt like left field to him—this devout, “blameless” man of God, this loyal, church-going, every day Bible reading man, lost all 10 of his children, his servants, wealth, livestock, and health. Even his four besties turned on him! These “friends” of his share their opinions on his sudden calamity. They range from: it must be all your fault Job, to, perhaps God hadn’t punished you severely enough! And, adding insult to injury, these friends also suggest that Job’s children must have done something “awful”. Suggesting that perhaps they had brought about their own deaths. If Job hasn’t yet completely imploded from the weight of his sheer grief and dejection his own wife now takes a turn at him telling him to curse God and be done with it! After all, this isn’t what she had signed up for! And all of this because this unsearchable God allowed—granted, permission for Satan to test Jobs faith.

Our God is the God of Job. The unsearchable One. The One who both gives and takes away. For His good purpose…

And, if our love for this God should ever be so tested, we would be wise to be of the same mind concerning the ways of the Lord as was Job when, after much striving to figure Him out concluded: The wisdom of God is hidden from the human mind. Nonetheless, Job determines he will pursue such wisdom by fearing God and avoiding iniquity.  “After Job had prayed for his friends, the LORD restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.” –Job 42:10.

Our Big God is also the God of Abraham.

The God who provides a Ram in the bush foreknowing we’ll take up the knife in obedience.

He is the God who gives us the desire of our heart long after our hope for the thing has all but faded away. Then, once we “have” this desire—this precious thing He’s blessed us with, this God who is jealous for our affections just may ask us to return it—to offer it up to Him in faith. Not because He needs, He owns both the universe, as well as all the gifts He’s given us. It may not be that He even wants it back. What He wants, what He’s seeking, is us. All of us. All our heart, soul, mind, and strength. What He wants is for us to trust Him. To love Him above all else. All else. And, yet, knowing our love for Him is true, is first, held precious in our hearts above all else, He built into this test of loyalty, of commitment, mercy.

This All-knowing God has His answer before He ever asks us the question. The testing of our commitment to Him above all else is for our benefit not His. It’s for our growth. To strengthen our faith in this God we love and serve. He is after all, God all by Himself. He does not need us, He chooses us. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” –James 1:2-4.

This God, this beyond what we can even wildly dream of God, the One who speaks galaxies into existence, more, created the complexity and intricacy of those galaxies, putting them into orbit, each exact element in its exact place. He too hung the stars in the night sky and knows each by name. He’s the only One who has the answer as to how many grains of sand exist on every beach, lake, pond, on each shore, everywhere. As well as how many and the exact number of hairs on your head, on my head, on every head.

This same God thought up just how to create the most gossamer of veils. Then He placed them, these whisper thin filmy creations as wings on the backs of Dragon Flies. And He created green. And all the other colors. This Mighty God, this God who sits on the Throne of heaven seeing every-thing, everything, at once. Nothing—not one thing ever, escaping His All-Seeing eye fits Himself into my too small frail flesh that we might be One. That I might—you might, partake of heaven, of Righteousness—His, not ours, now, here on this earth. This God, too big to take in in 1000 lifetimes created me—you, that we might co-create with Him. Doesn’t that just blow your mind! God wants to use you. Partner with you.

This same God who created Neptune and breath and daisy petals wants to partner with you…

So, when I contemplate today’s Scripture, I quickly realize there is far too much I do not know—will never know, was not meant to know, this side of eternity, about this God. And I’m okay with that. I’m okay with it because I can pray for the wisdom I need. He gives it in abundance, freely. I can scour His Word too. And, I can seek this God directly for His wisdom. I have that kind of relationship with Him, because of Him. So, rather than even trying to answer today’s question posed by God ourselves, instead, let’s allow His own Words to give us our answer: “When He had said these things, He cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth.” The man who had died came forth, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.” Only God can undo something He has done—allowed. Only He has that kind of Power. Even the curse of death must obey Him. Only God can save. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” This is the God we serve. And I for one, am humbled and blessed to be called to sit at His feet and proclaim, “My God How Great Thou Art!” Knowing I have only the slightest understanding of this Truth.

We come by faith believing, baby sips…

Friend, if you have yet to meet this God who you’ve just read about, now is the right time. This is the right place. You’re not here by accident. Please, stop, and repent of your sins, just tell God you’re terribly sorry, and ask this God into your life as your Lord and Savior. Remember, nothing gets past Him. He knew you’d be here, more, He’s the reason you are here….

 

 

 

 

 

Unmerited. 2 Samuel 22:37

July 15, 2018 /

 “You have made a wide path for my feet
    to keep them from slipping.”

Billy Graham explains that grace is defined as the unmerited favor of God. Noah Webster, in the 1828 edition of his now famous Webster’s Dictionary, defines unmerited as follows: “Not merited; not deserved; obtained without service or equivalent…”

David realized that everything in his life was the result of God’s unmerited gifts. Everything. This gift, a child, born from the union of open-handed grace and extravagant—boundless love. Born from God’s own seed…

We witness David’s great love for the Lord displayed early on in his walk.

We hear the impassioned cry of a young man hailing God’s praises with unabashed delight in his declarations found in Psalm 18. We see his fierce love and adoration displayed through his venerating dance before the Lord in 2 Samuel 6:14. Earlier still, in his fervent display of loyalty when, as a boy, he slayed a giant with faith, favor, a rock, and a sling. David saw evidence of the Hand of God in every turning of his life. Life, favor, grace, provision, election, provision—each was synonymous with God. It isn’t hard to imagine that He sang of God’s accolades throughout his entire life. Be those high points or low—

The scriptures are ripe with evidence of this truth…

David’s song of praise found in 2 Samuel 22 is, but a more mature version of this younger man’s heart that had surged forth in Psalm 18. A more complete, richer understanding of the depths of love, the breadth of favor and mercy—the lavishness of the provision, providence, grace and, the unfathomable forgiveness of this God he loved. It’s the pouring out of praise from every pore.

It is the evidence of, proofs of, knowledge—gnosis.

And, we would do well to model its unswerving devotion—this adoration, towards God. To see Him just as clearly in the every turning of our own lives. Realizing with David, that it is only by His design that we have been blessed with life at all! More, if we have been chosen by Him—to partner with, be used by Him, in some small or great way. And, finally, to live with Him eternally when our work here is finished.

Grace…

David knew—is extolling the fact, that God went before him making ways where no way was possible. Created great pools of grace—bays of grace, just to surround David. To protect his feet from falling…

Be encouraged! This same God is still creating those pools today friend. He’s still walking, well ahead of His elect, towards the intersections of destiny and divine timing. All that He might provide for you those things He planned for your life while He was knitting you together in the womb. Each experience a set up—preparation for the moment you would meet the exact person needed to propel you further along in your journey of faith, of refinement—to guide you into your new season, a new level of commitment and service. A shedding of self that you might reflect Him more clearly—trust Him unreservedly.

Grace…

David is speaking to us with conviction. More, with firsthand knowledge.

He’s speaking as one whose been seasoned by life—one who has gained a deeper understanding of the mercy, grace, favor, and, provisions of God. Therefore, now, at the close of his life, possessing a much broader appreciation and recognition of what has been afforded him, conferred on him, David speaks with a reverence and humility that is born from a lifetime of intimacy and trust. From one who has left some skin on the field. One who has lived through fiery trials—has been sifted and wounded and healed and broken and mended and broken again. And now, from this place—after every win and more, after some devastating losses, still stands before us ardently exclaiming, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—from violent people you save me.” –2 Samuel

Listen as the Apostle Paul makes plain this same ardent declaration: “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” –Ephesians 2:4-10

David’s reign began roughly in 1060 BC. And the Apostle Paul’s roughly in 37 AD. Close to 1100 years separating these voices. Yet, when compared, when laid side-by-side, they speak as one. They share the same fiery declarations of adulation. Each born from knowing the depths of their depravity. The sentence their sins deserved. And each acknowledging with his life—the unmerited grace bestowed upon them.

May the same be said of us. May our cry be: “As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him. For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God?” –2 Samuel 22:31-32.

Unmerited Grace. It came in the form of God’s only Son. It is He that David lifts his voice to—spends his life in the service of. God’s Son wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger. Rejected by men and despised by many. Bruised for our sins—He took upon Himself the penalty for our sins. Stripped, He was beaten to within inches of His life. Pools of Blood shed—in them alone is life and grace and mercy and the forgiveness that David and Paul and Me and countless many sing our praises of thanksgiving to.

Jesus alone makes our paths wide that our feet may not slip. But oh, what it cost Him…

Friend if you are here today for the first time I believe God has directed your steps. If you’ve not yet asked Jesus into your life as Lord and Savior—it’s why He has you here now. Why you stuck around until the end. Please ask Him into your heart today. Tomorrow is promised to no man. “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” –Romans 10:9.

Division. Luke 12:51

July 2, 2018 /

 “Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division [between believers and unbelievers…”

When most people hear the name Jesus, they associate it with love. Jesus and love are often equated as being one in the same—synonymous. Jesus. Is. Love. Jesus is merciful—compassionate, long-suffering, tender, sacrificial—and the list goes on…

And these are each true and components, one and all, of His character. But what about His justice? What about God being divisive?

In our scripture verse, Jesus has just made a paradoxical statement…

He knows that His disciples—as well as most of Israel, believe the coming Messiah will usher in—bring with Him, peace. Not only for the nation of Israel—more, into each man’s heart. After all—didn’t the first part of Zechariah’s vision proclaim this peace (Zechariah 9:9-10)? And too, the message of hope, of peace, offered them by God through the Prophet Isaiah? “You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace…” Isaiah 55:12. And, doesn’t Isaiah 9:6 refer to Him as the Prince of Peace? “…And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Most of those gathered around Him had no problem with Jesus’ message of peace and love. But, not so much when it came to receiving His message of repentance of their sins—or of God’s coming judgement. They, like so many of us today, started squirming a little—quickly changing the conversation, becoming angry—verbally aggressive, even jousting at the mere mention of being a sinner worthy of God’s just punishment, after all, they were God’s chosen!

Sound familiar? How many of God’s “chosen” balk today, when confronted with their sins?

That’s typically where you’ll hear folks interject, but I though Jesus was all about loving people. And suddenly too, the person who doesn’t even own a Bible is now quoting Scripture. Doesn’t the Bible say that God so loved the world that He sent His only Son to save it? Suddenly everyone knows John 3:16… “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

And yes, contrary to their scoffing, the answer to both above questions is yes, and yes.

Jesus is pure love…

However, when it comes to this topic of sin and guilt, God’s love is expected, by most, to be judgement free.

Impossible!

If all are guilty of sin—and we are, then the same just judgement must be passed down to each of us. That’s Justice. The same sentence for the same crime. Yet, the unplumbed depths of God’s love is such that Jesus, out of His unfathomable love for us said, “Father, I’ll take their place”. That is, He took your place and my place…. “For at just the right time, while we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. It is rare indeed for anyone to die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” –Romans 5:6-8. And concerning this justice, God couldn’t ignore the price of sin needing to be paid in full. If He had, the penalty for sin would not have been paid in full. He’d have waived His perfect justice and holiness—therefore rendering Himself unjust. Yet to impose this penalty on each soul would in fact fly in the face of His immense love and mercy. Therefore, through the sacrificial work of Jesus on the cross, God demonstrates Himself as both just and the justifier of the those who put their faith in—choose, Jesus.  “God presented Him as an atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood, in order to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance He had passed over the sins committed beforehand. He did this to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and to justify the one who has faith in Jesus.” –Romans 3:25-26

So how then do we reconcile this loving God with the statement He makes in our Scripture?

With this warning, this heads-up He’s giving His friends to prepare them for what’s about to come?

With His Words, Jesus squarely drew a line in the proverbial sand here. Placing those who were for Him on the one side—and those who were against on the other. And, He made it clear one must choose a side. From the beginning—there has only ever been 2 choices afforded every man. To follow God, or not to follow God.

To not choose is to choose. There has never been a middle ground with God. “Now listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity and disaster” –Deuteronomy 30:15

The price for sin is death. Period.

And, now, we witness this same Jesus preparing His disciples—course correcting them, to get ready for what being a follower of His might do to a soul, to a family, to friendships…

The Cross of Christ was intended to cause division. Meant to test the allegiance of those who call Jesus, Lord. Jesus pointed His disciples towards the Prophet Micah to help illustrate the very division soon to beset each of them—us too. “For a son thinks his father is a fool, a daughter challenges her mother, and a daughter-in-law her mother-in-law; a man’s enemies are his own family” –Micah 7:6. Yet, apart from a few breaks—the entire 12th chapter of Luke is a message of salvation. A key demonstration of Jesus’ infinite love and mercy. It’s Jesus inviting all those listening—and us, to receive freely what He’s offering them. Eternal life and forgiveness of their sins—if, by faith they’d believe He is Messiah.

Again, Jesus has squarely drawn a hard-line in the proverbial sand…

Division: When one believes and the other doesn’t, division enters in. A husband accepts Christ’s message—the wife doesn’t. Division. The father accepts Christ’s saving grace—his children do not. Division. This division is a double-edged sword. In John 3 Jesus said, “If you believe, you have eternal life.  If you don’t believe, your unbelief puts you under judgment.” Since God can neither change nor lie—this Truth stands as much today as it did the moment it left Jesus’ mouth—believe it or not…

So, in summary, why, in a world that finds itself so divided, would I post this teaching that stresses division? My answer is simple. Because God said to. Division is nothing new. Until Christ returns to unite us all—division will exist. It must. It was intended to. We must make a choice to follow Jesus. To not choose is a choice. That said, Scripture also tells us to seek peace, unity with all men. “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple” –Romans 16:17-18.

Hear me please: I am not, by any means, using this teaching to advocate causing division for selfish personal gain, nor to push or further one’s agenda—personal, political, or spiritual. That is contrary to everything I believe. However, I am stating as plainly as I know how, that I do not believe in peace at any cost. If forced to choose—I will choose Christ at all cost. And, my prayer for you is that you will join me in my choice. We should seek to be at peace with all men but should never forget that Jesus warned we will be hated for His sake. Because those who reject Him hate Him, they will hate His followers as well… “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world” –John 15:18-19.

A hard Word I know, but Truth demands a choice…

Friend, if you have not yet asked Jesus into your heart—if you’ve not yet made your choice, I pray you’ll do it now, today. I’m praying for you…

Inclusion. Mark 9:40

June 17, 2018 /

 “For he who is not against us is for us.”

To say this world is  divided is an understatement…

Truth be told—from the day Adam and Eve were expelled from the garden for believing the discordant lies of the enemy—division has become a thread the enemy has skillfully used to weave division and destruction both into God’s perfect design. We may blush at its mention, balk when its pointed out, close our eyes to its demoralizing tentacles—but the truth of it presence remains nonetheless.

Racial, religious, and political divide has become an almost daily byline…

Venomous, erosive poison sprinkled, with some version of truth, across the evening news—monopolizing many of our social media sites. The retellings, the hashtags and “shares” of our societal discord so often sensationalized. Too often used as fuel to garner ratings and hits as each commentator applies their own spin—their own agenda or bias, to whatever the malevolent story du jour may be.

As an aside, hear me please here for clarification sake: I do not, do not, I do not advocate racial divide nor discrimination in any of its loathsome, hate-filled, fear-full, divisive forms. Period. And, as for my politics, though I do have a party I favor, I prefer not to employ my political pining’s as a divisive sword wielded simply because wielding it is my right…

Sadly, these same divisions that have infected our world have also made their way into the hearts of those who call themselves “Christian”. Christians, belonging to One Body though we are many parts. However, being a follower of Christ in the 21st century Church has in some cases become akin to wearing a designer label. With some choosing denominational affiliations as badges of loyalty and honor. I belong to such and such a denomination. I follow Pastor so and so. And the list of I’s goes on and on…

Shouldn’t the only “I” we as Christians share—the only mutual affiliation we claim be unity, Oneness in Christ alone?

“I seek to do the will of my Father” being our unifying battle cry? Regrettably however, there are denominations and individuals both whom support such exclusions. Sadly, there have always been…

But not so with Jesus. Jesus didn’t teach exclusion due to denominationalism! He didn’t set-up divides, compartments within His Body, rather, He tore them down at the Cross. This is His prayer for all those that belong to Him: “For them I sanctify Myself, so that they too may be sanctified by the truth. I am not asking on behalf of them alone, but also on behalf of those who will believe in Me through their message, that all of them may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I am in You. May they also be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.…” John 17:19-21.

So what is denominationalism? At its core, here is how it is mostly commonly defined: The division of one religion into separate groups, sects, schools of thought or denominations.

Jesus however, speaks of the power of His Blood to unite and cover, cleanse and purify—make Righteous for the whom-so-ever-will.  He speaks of unity and oneness. Even as He and God are One –John 17:21-23. Again, listen to His Word in Matthew 26:28: “…for this is My blood of the [new and better] covenant, which [ratifies the agreement and] is being poured out for many [as a substitutionary atonement] for the forgiveness of sins.” Sinless Blood poured out for every person who calls Jesus “Lord”. There was no pause—no clause that stated: “By this I mean—only if you call yourself a Baptist or Methodist, a Presbyterian, a Lutheran, or a member of the World Assemblies of God, a Roman Catholic…

And, though Jesus was a Jew who did in fact minister first to the Jews—ultimately His death on the Cross instantly, and with fore-intention, opened the way for “who-so-ever-will” to enter right relationship with the One True God. That was always His plan. The moment He said, “It is finished”, and breathed His last, the curtain in the Temple was split open signifying that the way back to right relationship with God was now possible because of the sacrificial Blood of Jesus being shed once for all. Matthew 27:51.  We also see evidence of this Truth when reading the account of Peter and Cornelius. Read the full account in Acts 10. But for now, listen to verses 44-46: “While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles,for they heard them speaking in tongues and extolling God…”

We are the ones whom withhold; you and I are guilty of judgement and diving the Body. We have set up these divides, these compartments that are not from God. Compartments that divide those God died to unite. We have set the tone for, decided, who will be accepted and who will not. Who we will worship with, and who we won’t. We disagree with, are uncomfortable with, the way certain denominations “do” worship or how they pray—therefore we judge or reject them as a result.

Yet, the moment we cause division in The Body—and there is only One Body, we too are displaying the same attitude of exclusiveness that the early church displayed in saying that those who were gentiles and followed the way needed first to become Jews, to be purified—they must first be circumcised before they could be included into the Way (Read Acts 15). If you don’t do it the way it’s always been done you aren’t welcomed to join us! Sound familiar? That isn’t what Jesus taught us. He said, “If anyone causes one of these little ones–those who believe in me–to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” –Matthew 18:6

If you have ever experienced the unwelcoming icy chill of being ignored sadly, you’re qualified to empathize with those who have been rejected because of how they worship/pray/ proselytize their faith. For not being a member of the “right” denomination. Not donning the right label…

Perhaps you have felt such rejection? If so, let me apologize for whomever it was that made you feel marginalized—judged. I apologize for them because I too shamefully, have been guilty of such divisive judgements. Please, forgive us both?

We are one family with Christ as the Head of that family. Therefore, when one of our family members isn’t well—eventually it infects our whole Body. Being a multi-cultural Body–racially, economically, socially and intellectually diverse, how is it possible that amongst such diversity, such beauty, people will still cling to, still choose to gather only with “my kind of people?” Those I’m familiar and comfortable with?

The Apostle Paul wrote a letter to the believers in Galatia addressing a very similar issue. And nowhere in his words do we find even a hint of the unity he spoke of being ascribed to denominational affiliations. Rather, he speaks of our common faith in the One True God, in Jesus Christ, as the Source that unites us all. And not our memberships in the Baptist or Methodist, Presbyterian, Lutheran, World Assemblies of God, or the Roman Catholic. Nor in any other Christian denomination or organization that acknowledges the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ—as the One True God.

It is our faith in Christ Jesus alone that unites us! “For you [who are born-again have been reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified and] are all children of God [set apart for His purpose with full rights and privileges] through faith in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ [into a spiritual union with the Christ, the Anointed] have clothed yourselves with Christ [that is, you have taken on His characteristics and values]. There is [now no distinction in regard to salvation] neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you [who believe] are all one in Christ Jesus [no one can claim a spiritual superiority]” –Galatians 3:26-28.

Christ’s Body was established for inclusion, not exclusion…

It is this inclusion that Christ speaks of in Mark 9:38-42. “John said to Jesus, “Teacher, we saw someone using your name to cast out demons, but we told him to stop because he wasn’t in our group.” “Don’t stop him!” Jesus said. “No one who performs a miracle in my name will soon be able to speak evil of me. Anyone who is not against us is for us. If anyone gives you even a cup of water because you belong to the Messiah, I tell you the truth, that person will surely be rewarded. “But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone hung around your neck.”

Perhaps you are reading this and have not asked God into your heart as Lord and Savior? Please know there is a place in our family reserved just for you. Won’t you take your place today? Jesus loves you. The rest of us need your presence! Just ask Him to come into your heart—to be your Lord. He’ll do the rest… “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” –Romans 10:9.

And to my Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ; there is room for us all at the feet of our Lord. Please, join me there as we pray for unity in the Body of Christ…

 

 

 

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