Finding Your "Must"

Must Obey God's Commands
Deuteronomy 19:1-20:20

"Carefully obey all these laws I'm giving you today. Love the Lord your God, and always do what he wants you to do. Then the Lord your God will enlarge your land as he promised your ancestors, giving you the whole land he promised to them." (Deuteronomy 19:8-9)

Seems fairly simple, but somehow we sometimes have a hard time with this- following God's commands. Just do what He told us to do. Live right. It reminds me of the spiritual that I heard the talented Juniata Choir intone recently: "You Better Mind" (how you live, how you sing, you talk, etc). We better mind... we better pay attention to how we are living, to how we are following God's laws, driven by a deep inner desire, but our inner 'must.'

Must Work Hard
Proverbs 12:23-25

"Hard workers will become leaders, but those who are lazy will be slaves." (Proverbs 12:24)

We know that we are to do whatever we do for the Lord: do it well and fully and with our whole hearts. And when we are doing what the Lord has called us to- whether that is serving others, writing notes of encouragement, visiting those in the hospital, baking for the church youth group. Whatever we are doing, we want to do our best. We work hard, because it's a special gift to our Lord. And this kind of 'hard work' through service will soon be moved to leadership positions. And when called to continued diligent work, even in a somewhat different role, leadership is something that we must take on... not for our own selves, but in obedience to our Lord and the work He has called us to.

Must Preach God's Kingdom
Luke 4:31-44

"At daybreak, Jesus went to a lonely place, but the people looked for him. When they found him, they tried to keep him from leaving. But Jesus said to them, 'I must preach about God's kingdom to other towns, too. This is why I was sent.'" (Luke 4:42-43)

This is the passage that most stood out to me this morning, that I noticed in a way I hadn't before. Two distinct but not entirely separate parts called my attention. First, the fact that Jesus went to a lonely place. Jesus, an authority and leader and teacher, surrounded by many and preaching to them all the time, spending time with people. Jesus needed time to himself as well, and this didn't negate the fact that Jesus was still called to preach and teach and live with and amongst the people. Jesus was still clear on what He was called to do- to preach God's kingdom.

And secondly, the fact that Jesus recognizes that His mission is not in a fixed position. I think we often talk about finding our 'call' or discerning God's 'purpose' for our lives- when this passage suggests that we might have many 'calls' and 'purposes' set forth according to different moments in our lives. Yet all of it resides under on main mission- to preach God's word. Lord, may I listen carefully in order to find Your 'must' for my life at this moment... and in the future may I always remain in You, so that I may continue to follow Your will at different moments in my walk with You oh Lord.

God Politics

Not too long ago, Jim Wallis put out an interesting book on the intersection between God and politics. Though sometimes uncomfortable, as Dan Ulrich would put it, this is an important intersection point of tension between "faith" and "government" (church v. state). But in Ulrich's portrayal, the "v" is turned upside down, crafting a tent... that is held up by the points of tension between the different points of the tent. Take one away and the whole thing collapses.

The answer to the point of tension is not really an answer of right or wrong answers but a heart that seeks to listen and learn in an open conversation: what does God have to say to us about these differing viewpoints?

A Nation of Humility
Deuteronomy 17:8-18:22

"He should not think he is better than his fellow Israelites, and he must not stop obeying the law in any way so that he and his descendants may rule the kingdom for a long time." (Deuteronomy 17:20)

Interesting to think that this is what is written about 'choosing a king.' Humility is not often a characteristic people look for in their leaders. But if a leader doesn't embody humility to a certain extent, she is not ready to listen to advising, to change the course of action when things go awry, to carefully study situations and make the best possible decision with all the sources given. The opposite of humility is arrogance which, when linked with ignorance, can lead to ruin... perhaps even the ruin of a nation. So at this uncertain time, when we are praying for our leaders and our nation, we pray for a spirit of humility in those leaders and our nation as a whole. What can those leaders learn from this situation, from past mistakes, from options that other countries in similar situations have taken? What can our nation learn from this precarious position and possible changes that we might model after other brothers and sisters in this world?

A Nation of Peace
Proverbs 12:20-22

"Those who plan evil are full of lies, but those who plan peace are happy." (Proverbs 12:20)

What a loaded piece of scripture. It reminds me of those unfortunate and elusive "weapons of mass destruction." This weekend we are praying for peace... and tonight we heard Dan Ulrich's talk on peace in Romans. There was so much in that talk that I think I'll have to write a whole separate journal on that, but what struck me was the interesting points of tension between the 'not yet' and the 'already' in so much of what Paul writes. This extends even to the point of where a single phonemically similar sentence may be interpreted in the indicative: There is peace or in the subjunctive: Let there be peace. It is in this contradiction of terms or tension, as the speaker named it, that we must pray for continued and for a new peace for our souls, for this nation, for the world.

A Nation of Grace
Luke 4:1-30

"All the people spoke well of Jesus and were amazed at the words of grace he spoke. They asked, 'Isn't this Joseph's son?'" (Luke 4:22)

Jesus' words were different- words of grace and not of condemnation... and he spoke them with authority. Interestingly enough, this chapter of Luke points out several times that many people were impressed with what Jesus had to say. But just as people begun to express interest in this leader and his words, they began to question him. Where did he come from? What gives him the authority? What type of experience does he have? What's on his CV? Where was he born? Lord, let our nation be a nation that preaches Your grace and that follows Your ways, so that the directions we take individually and collectively may be by Your authority alone.

Yeah... We're Different

A while ago, a sports shoe brand had a slogan that stated, "Runners... yeah, we're different." (Shows how well advertising works on me. I don't even remember the brand.) Well, Christians should be this way too. All the Bible shows me that we are meant to live life differently, and I have to say that I'm disappointed with myself this week. I've allowed myself to get caught up in work and getting things done- I haven't been contacting people that I normally contact. Lord, please teach me through these verses, through Your guidance, and through Your Holy Spirit how to be wholly yours... even when things get busy.

A Different Way of Giving
Deuteronomy 15:1-17:7

"Give freely to the poor person, and do not wish that you didn't have to give. The Lord your God will bless your work and everything you touch. There will always be poor people in the land, so I command you to give freely to your neighbors and the the poor and the needy." (Deuteronomy 15:10-11)

This verse is challenging to me as just today some student approached me about giving to some foundation or another. It seems like in the Spring there are drives for everything by everyone. But, the part of this passage that stands out to me to day is "give freely to your neighbors." How often do I look to my neighbor? My friends in class? My students? My herman@s in church? We are also called to give to them: give our hearts, our time, our energy, our love. Only then can we create a different type of community... a loving bond that cares for the downcast, the worried, the tired, the hurting, the lonely, the lost.

A Different Way of Speaking
Psalm 37:30-36

"Good people speak with wisdom and they say what is fair. The teachings of their God are in their heart, so they do not fail to keep them." (Psalm 37:30-31)

Good people speak differently. We are challenged to speak words of peace, of love, of joy, of the Lord. Since the Lord is on our hearts, that is what should come from our lips, even when we are exhausted or frustrated. Lord, teach us to speak of You, because if we are constantly speaking of You, Your teachings and Your ways, it will be easier to follow in those paths... paths so different from the ones the world makes.

A Different Way of Living
Luke 3:1-38

"He went all over the area around the Jordan River preaching a baptism of changed hearts and lives for the forgiveness of sins." (Luke 3:3)

I've always liked John the Baptist... that hairy locust eating, camel-hair wearing guy. He wasn't afraid to stand out in a crowd, to be really different from the others. And he proved that living a very different lifestyle still allowed him to be very effective for the kingdom. As Max Lucado puts it, he "didn't have to be like the crowd to change the crowd." That sounds like being in the world and not of the world. While I don't think I'll chow down on a bag of locusts or try on a camel hide any time soon, I'm thankful for a God that can use me and my different lifestyle... changing hearts along the way.

The Giving "Me"

A twist on Shel Silverstein's "The Giving Tree" in which the tree gives and gives to the little boy until there is nothing left to give, we should similarly give all of ourselves- to the Lord, to those in need, and to our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Giving to the Lord
Deuteronomy 13:1-14:29

"Be sure to save one-tenth of all your crops each year. Take it to the place the Lord your God will choose where he is to be worshiped. There, where you will be together with the Lord, eat the tenth of your grain, new wine, and oil, and eat the animals born first to your herds and flocks. Do this so that you will learn to respect the Lord your God always." (Deuteronomy 14:22-23)

Tithing... an unpopular topic, especially this year. But, it's hard for me to understand what the very big deal is? Why is it so difficult? I am so very blessed, that a tenth seems like so very little. It's the first thing to be put into my budget each month, and it's been this way since I've started working. Even in BVS, I'd tithe from my monthly stipend. $6.00 given to the church in Massachussetts was $6.00 that I could give to the Lord, and it would be put to better use than something I'd use it for. Re-reading this passage, it's also wonderful to see the same rejoicing in giving. Giving these things to the Lord so that you may celebrate.

A couple weeks ago at La Iglesia, we had a luncheon after a church meeting in the new annex... an additional space that the church just finished renovating. The tithes and offerings and gifts of time and hard work made this space possible... this space where we could come together and celebrate and praise the Lord. Lord, may I always give to You joyfully, celebrating in giving my heart, my time, my energy, all of my gifts to You.

Giving to Those in Need
Psalm 37:23-29

"Good people always lend freely to others, and their children are a blessing." (Psalm 37:26)

Lately I've been thinking about generosity a lot, especially after being a bit spoiled by a plane ticket home to visit my parents. But I'm quite convinced that generosity doesn't have to do with having but giving whatever you have. A generous heart doesn't have a certain amount of income. In fact, I think that's partly why it's so hard for the rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. It seems the more you earn, the more you feel that you need... your first becomes tighter.

In Brazil, I had students who would buy me a penny candy (bala) when they had only two for themselves, and I still have the bracelet that Anderson made for me as well as Larissa's beautiful seashell necklace. Beautiful artwork by Rota and Karen decorate my fridge, and I still remember the wonderful meals made for me by my refugee friends in Lancaster. Call me sentimental, but these gifts are far more important to me that the most expensive presents. They show me that we give from our hearts, not from our wealth. God, teach me to give freely as so many have given freely to me- to freely give my love, my possessions, my home, and You.

Giving to Sisters & Brothers in Christ
Luke 2:25-52

"Jesus said to them, 'Why were you looking for me? Didn't you know that I must be in my Father's house?' But they did not understand the meaning of what he said. Jesus went with them to Nazareth and was obedient with them. But his mother kept in her mind all that had happened." (Luke 2:49-51)

This must be a tough one for parents... and one that I admittedly will have trouble relating to. Perhaps it is partly what my parents experienced when I went off to BVS- leaving home, leaving a traditional lifestyle, leaving friends and family to follow God's leading. (Part of BVS orientation includes a discernment process, so we really don't know where we'll be sent until the end of the 3 week orientation.) We have so much love for our family and close friends, but Jesus turns that idea of "family" upside down. Our family should be any of our brothers and sisters in Christ... those who live worlds away and those who live down the street. And what a beautiful family it is! Family in Mexico, Brazil, Guatemala, etc. Lord, teach me to give myself not just to my own physical family but first and foremost to the family that I have in You.

The Stubborn Streak

Few would believe it, but I do have a bit of a stubborn streak. I'll refuse to take medicine when I'm sick. I'll go on a 16 mile run in a cold rain/snow. I'll go pick up firewood in a Madrigal dress. And yes, like most of us I fear that I'm sometimes too stubborn to truly give myself over to God and heed His desires, not my own.

Too Stubborn to Serve
Deuteronomy 9:1-10:22

"Give yourselves completely to serving him, and do not be stubborn any longer." (Deuteronomy 10:16)

Those Israelites... they've forgotten the commandments again, and Moses has to plead with God to have mercy on this stubborn people who wouldn't give up their sinful ways. He threw himself down in front of God and prayed that God wouldn't destroy them. If that was the state of affairs then, I can only imagine what it must be now. The Lord must look down on the world and think... all those stubborn people! Don't they see? They're only hurting themselves and others with their sinful ways. Why don't they give up their malicious ways and follow me?

When we fall prey to stubbornness, we allow ourselves to believe the lie that we know. We know how to do things, we know what needs to be done, we've got it covered, we can do it ourselves. We have no need to humbly listen to the suggestions or viewpoints or advice of others. There is no openness. And without an openness to serve God, based on His ways, His plans, we are left out of the great joy of serving our God and Savior. Lord, please teach me to be open every day to serve You.

Too Stubborn to Speak
Luke 1:57-80

"Zechariah asked for a writing tablet and wrote 'His name is John,' and everyone was surprised. Immediately Zechariah could talk again, and he began praising God." (Luke 1:63-64)

Sometimes too stubborn to serve God, because we're wrapped up in the "me" theology. But sometimes we're too stubborn to serve God, because we're wrapped up in the "can't be" theology. Zechariah, different than Mary's response to virgin birth, was one of... "Sorry, Mr. Angel, you've got the wrong guy... try that young buck down the block. Might be him." Sounds similar to many in the Bible- Sarai who laughed, Moses who needed his little bro to speak for him, and so many more.

I admit I was there, too. I felt so small... to be sent to do so many big tasks for my youth group, for my church, for service projects. But, yes... it can be, because God is so great. It doesn't need to be you and your gifts, but God working through you... using and supplementing and granting even greater gifts to accomplish His work. And I know that I praise God (like Zechariah, when he finally understood God's power and accepted His will). I praise Him for what He has accomplished through me. I know that none of it- not a word I have spoken nor written nor a class that I have taught or a program overseen was me. So the next time we're called upon to serve God, we need to remember that it "can be." With God's help, the lame walk, the blind see, the virgin gives birth, the old man has a son, and the seemingly small Christian can do marvelous works for the kingdom with the help of the King of all.

"Just Because"

A "Just Because" Love
Deuteronomy 7:1-8:20

"The Lord did not care for you and choose you because there were many of you- you are the smallest nation of all. But the Lord chose you because he loved you, and he kept his promise to your ancestors." (Deuteronomy 7:7-8)

How I loved reading this verse this morning! Sometimes when we work so hard to do just the right things, nothing good comes out of it. As Steinbeck put it, "the best laid plans of mice and men oft go awry." And thank goodness really- it serves to remind us that we are not in control. Just as we cannot control the millions of happenings and comings and going, we cannot control how God responds to us- we cannot plan our way into God's love or earn our way into God's love.

In linguistic terms, God is the agent, the causative, the active subject in this verse, "he loved you." God is doing the choosing and the loving. And there is no outside cause or reason- not because of our size or beauty or how we dress or the things we do or don't do... God loves us and then chooses us because of his love. And if not for anything we do or say or don't do or don't say, we can't help but ask, "Why God? Why me?" To which there doesn't seem to be any other answer that God's loving character... it's simply a "just because" love.

A "Just Because" Peace
Psalm 37:7-11

"People who are not proud will inherit the land and will enjoy complete peace." (Psalm 37:11)

In a very highly class based society, the Bible must've seemed so radical. 'Proud' was used not only to describe those with an arrogant character but also to describe someone of high and noble stature. God turned things upside down, stating that 'humble' people without the privileges of money or wealth or fame would receive an inheritance of land and of peace. The 'have nots' would have... and in the kingdom of God, we all have an inheritance. We all have a room there waiting for us in our Father's house, which has many rooms. And while things may be rough and confusing or upsetting, the humble are promised that someday in the future they will experience ultimate peace. Why? "Just because." God promises peace to those who need it most.

A "Just Because" Blessing
Luke 1:39-56

"My soul praises the Lord; my heart rejoices in God my Savior, because he has shown his concern for his humble servant girl. From now on, all people will say that I am blessed, because the Powerful One has done great things for me. His name is holy." (Luke 1:46-49)

Young, meek, mild Mary- who didn't come from a remarkable family or money that would've brought her any acclaim. But God chose to bless her with His Son. I can hardly imagine. Again reminding us that God blesses us not because we deserve it, but because He is our loving Lord God, deserving of all the praise and the honor and the glory. And how I should sing like Mary every day for all the blessings that He has given me- family, friends, graduate program, travel, service, health, love, etc. I too, should shout His praises so that "all people will say that I am blessed, because the Powerful One has done great things for me"... "just because."

At His Service

Obediently Serving
Deuteronomy 5:1-6:25

"Live the way the Lord your God has commanded you so that you may live and have what is good and have a long life in the land you will take." (Deuteronomy 5:33)

No servant will last very long in a household if they break all the rules or don't do what the master says. Similarly with us, we won't get very far confessing with our mouths that we are God's servants but breaking every "household" command. That kind of servant would lose his/her job most quickly. But God is different than just any master. Our Lord is The Master. God's commands are always for our own good and the good of others. Following God's commands, there is no error. Lord help me to serve You obediently, always following Your perfect will for my life.

Joyfully Serving
Psalm 37:1-6

"Enjoy serving the Lord, and he will give you what you want." (Psalm 37:4)

We tend to have "have to" and "want to" lists- which vary depending on the person. When I was younger, dusting topped by "have to" list and running was/and still is pretty high on my "want to" list. A problem as I see it is that "serving the Lord" is all too often falling into the "have to" list, when it should be a "want to." Serving the Lord in its many beautiful forms (as a Sunday school teacher in church, a volunteer at the homeless shelter, a friend to the new kid in your class, a warm family member, etc) is not a "have to" thing. It should be something that we enjoy, because it is something that we can do for our Lord.

Think of that person who you love so much it surprises you, now think about all the little things you do or try to do for that person. For someone else, it would be a "have to"- wash the dishes, make a meal, run to the store. But for that person, it's a "want to"- why? It's all motivated by our great love for that person, which makes us enjoy showing our love for them. But this Psalm goes beyond the joy that comes from serving the Lord we love so much. In fact, we are promised that we will get what we want... and I don't believe that means a "your wish is my command." But we will get a closer connection to the Lord we love, which is the reason for our service... and the reason for our great joy.

Faithfully Serving
Luke 1:26-38

"Mary said, 'I am the servant of the Lord. Let this happen to me as you say!' Then the angel went away." (Luke 1:38)

I have always marveled at Mary's great faith and trust in the Lord. Her response isn't, "That would be scandalous!" Or "I'll get in so much trouble!" Or even the "How????" that has bewildered so so many of us. But, she trusts that God has it in His hands. Her response is a faithful and trusting, "I am your servant." She's not sure about where she'll have this baby, how she'll have this baby, when she'll have this baby or even what her exact role will be. But, she trusts God to take care of the particulars. She simply offers herself as a servant, trusting that God will teach her how to serve her most important part. Lord, may I learn to serve you with so much faith and trust.

The Heart of the Matter

Being a Christian isn't just about following with your mind- creating plans and routines and disciplines. This is part of it, but when they are not motivated by a deep emotional love and appreciation for the precious gifts of our Savior and Lord, they become as empty as any worldly routines. Holy Spirit, teach me to live my Christian life filled with a heart that is trusting, listening, loving and wholly devoted to You.

A Trusting Heart
Deuteronomy 1:1-2:37

"Then I said to you, 'Don't be frightened; don't be afraid of those people. The Lord your God will go ahead of you and fight for you as he did in Egypt; you saw him do it. And in the desert you saw how the Lord your God carried you, like one carries a child. And he has brought you safely all the way to this place.'" (Deuteronomy 1:29-31)

The Israelites are afraid of following God's plan for their life. For us, knowing the end of the story, it's far too easy to criticize. "Come on, guys! God is on your side. You're not going to lose. You're secret weapon is better than a Wooden Horse any day!" But how very many times in the same situation to we feel those same emotions- timidity, anxiety, fear. It's the I-don't-know-about-this, the how's-this-going-to-turn-out, the are-you-sure-God?

But God is sure, and we only need to rest in His 'blessed assurance.' Yes, a 22-year-old who's never spoken Portuguese can travel to Rio and work in a favela where she knows no one! I'm sure that in so many circumstances God has carried me, just like one carries a child. And Lord, wherever it is that You are leading me, I will go... trusting You with all my heart, because you have brought me safely to each place I have been so far.

A Listening Heart
Psalm 36:1-4

"Sin speaks to the wicked in their hearts. They have no fear of God. They think too much of themselves so they don't see their sin and hate it. Their words are wicked lies; they are no longer wise or good. At night they make evil plans; what they do leads to nothing good. They don't refuse things that are evil." (Psalm 36:1-4)

"The wicked" is a loaded and dichotomizing term, so I try to avoid using such generalizations. I tend to believe that there are no "wicked" people but people who are misguided and haven't seen the light yet... haven't understood the freedom that is available to them in God's saving grace. So then, I prefer to see it as 'wicked' or 'bad tendencies' reside in each person... and it is our job not to let them win out.

This verse, which is not what we typically think of in considering the Psalms, mentions that sin speaks to your heart when you are caught in your 'wickedness' or 'bad tendencies.' The words speaking to your heart are 'wicked lies' which revolve around 'thinking too much of yourself.' Psychologists will tell you that the way you think about the world deeply affects you. (Linguists would add that the words you think also have a great impact.) More or less, the analogy would go this way: we develop certain patterns of thinking (pathways through the snow), and our brains on automatic pilot follow those same patterns (walk the already cleared path). So when we sin or develop those unhealthy (negative, me-centered, etc) pathways in the brain, they are self-perpetuating in their proliferation of lies that 'lead to nothing good.' Instead, we as

Christians are challenged to listen to different words, not created by sin or evil tendencies, but those we hear from God in prayer, in Bible Study, in communion with other believers. Thinking of the image created by Robert Frost, we'll take the 'road less traveled' ... listening to and thinking on our God who speaks to our hearts. Lord, help my heart to listen to and follow paths that lead to You.

A Loving Heart
Mark 16:1-20

"After Mary saw Jesus, she went and told his followers, who were very sad and were crying." (Mark 16:10)

Sometimes it seems all too distant, too far away to remember that again... just like the Israelites in the desert, the disciples didn't know the end of the story. Of course, we can read back on the scriptures and criticize them, or we can try to understand the pain and sadness and overwhelming emotions involved in any death. And then imagine how this must've been compounded by the type of death they'd seen their Lord and Master succumb to, when they knew of His power and greatness.

They were crying. Tears come out of great emotion. And I believe that we cannot come to the cross this Easter without our heart and spirit and our emotions. My grandmother was Russian Orthodox and as such, symbols were a big part in understanding the scriptures. At Easter, they would walk into the church where everything was dark, covered with heavy black draperies and a table covered with black to represent a casket or Jesus' death. Afterward, they would walk around the church in mourning and solemnity... contemplating Jesus' death. During this time, the sanctuary was transformed into a place of gladness with light and bright Easter colors and the image of Jesus was uncovered. All entered into the joy of Easter morning and a risen Lord and Savior. There is no one perfect way to celebrate or capture the heart of Easter, but it is important that we feel it... with a heart that aims to love in order to emulate this ultimate act of love.

Think Safety

Safe Cities
Numbers 35:1-36:13

"Six of the cities you give the Levites will be cities of safety. A person who accidentally kills someone may run to one of those cities for safety." (Numbers 35:6)

Sanctuary is a familiar idea to many, a place where fugitives were immune to arrest. Here Moses is setting up many cities of 'sanctuary' or 'safety' for this specific purpose. Not that all the criminals were forgiven or pardoned, but they would have the right to a fair trial in court. And they weren't just 'safe cities' for the citizens of Israel, but for "foreigners and other people living with [them]" (35:15).

As a youth, we'd sing,
"Lord prepare me to be a santuary,
Pure and holy, tried and true,
And with thanksgiving, I'll be a living,
Sanctuary for you."

This text makes me rethink these familiar lyrics. Aren't we, after all, meant to be sanctuaries... providing safe and protected spaced for those who come to us... not just those from our church but those on the street, those from other countries, those in need. Only in providing a sacred place of safety and security can we hope to show people our Lord's loving protection of all His children. Lord, may I be the sanctuary that echos your words: "Come to me all you who are weary and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28)

Safe Souls
Proverbs 12:3

"Doing evil brings no safety at all, but a good person has safety and security." (Proverbs 12:3)

"Better safe than sorry." "Safety first." "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." But, sometimes we don't. Sometimes the deceiving charm of 'instant gratification' can seem all too alluring. It whispers: "What they don't know won't hurt them." "No harm, no foul." "Risk big, win big."

A good person is safe not because they'll never face troubles, or they'll never have their home broken into. But, a good person doesn't have to worry about being 'found out.' They're already out there... transparent. Evil things will be brought to light soon, and people are surprisingly perceptive. They'll figure you out before you know it. Lord teach me to embody Your goodness, so that I and all that I encounter may safely and securely reside in Your love.

Safe Sinners
Mark 15:21-47

"Then Jesus cried in a loud voice and died. The curtain in the Temple was torn into two pieces, from the top to the bottom." (Mark 15:37-38)

The curtain! Torn in two! What a scandal! Can you imagine what that meant for the Jews? The careful separation that kept them "safely" on one side and the priests on the other side was no more. It was gone, destroyed... in both a physical sense and a real sense. No more Holier than Thou to go between them and God, instead the intercession of the Holy Spirit who teaches us how to pray. No more sacrifices to atone for their sins, instead the blood spilt for us from our Lord and Savior. We are safe to enter into God's presence. Though Jesus, God has removed the barrier that separated sinners from him.

Unjust Desserts

I don't know if anyone remembers the turn of phrase: "getting your 'just desserts,'" meaning what you deserve and what you've earned. Well, we who live in the world are well aware that sometimes it just doesn't turn out that way. Sometimes we get what we don't deserve. Nowhere is this more aparent than in the Easter story... so I take this Lenten season to reflect on a Lord who shouldered burdens that He didn't need to bear.

Trouble
Numbers 33:1-34:29

"But if you don't force those people out of the land, they will bring you trouble. They will be like sharp hooks in your eyes and thorns in your sides. They will bring trouble to the land where you live." (Numbers 33:55)

As the Israelites are about to enter the land of Canaan, the Lord warns them that they will have to make all others leave. Others residing in this land have set up idols and statues, and God warns that they will "bring trouble." How interesting to see this image of a "thorn in their sides," when the crown of thorns is forced onto Jesus at his crucifiction. It appears that in the end it was not just a certain group of people but all of humanity that brought trouble to the land... and our ever-loving Lord who sent His Son to save us from this trouble, although we didn't deserve it.

Evil
Psalm 35:11-16

"They repay me with evil for the good I have done, and they make me very sad." (Psalm 35:12)

Sometimes I'm very glad that we are not always granted blessings for the good things that we do. Sometimes our helping hand may be greeted with a suspicious countenance. A heartfelt affirmation of faith may be met with sceptical disbelief. And this does make us sad. What... after all... did I do? But it does serve to remind us that the motives for the good that we do are beyond the here and now... they are all for the glory of our Father in Heaven and not for our own good. They may also serve to remind us of the great good that Jesus did here on earth, only to be repayed with such evil actions.

Shame
Mark 15:1-20

"The soldiers beat Jesus on the head many times with a stick. They spit on him and made fun of him by bowing on their knees and worshiping him. After they finished, the soldiers took off the purple robe and put his own clothes on him again. Then they led him out of the palace to be crucified." (Mark 15:19-20)

The cross... the death reserved for those horrible sinners that deserved to be publicly shamed. It was the death of the murderers, liars, theives. And Jesus who never committed any of these crimes, who never deserved this type of humiliation, shouldered the burden. He bore the sins of the world, so he bore the weight of the murderer, the disgrace of the liar, the emberassment of the theif. Lucado reminds that "crucifixion was intended not only to hurt the victim but to shame him." And Jesus faced a shameful death that he didn't deserve to offer us a life that we cannot deserve... but accept by believing in the grace that God offers us.

Loyalty

Loyalty seems a fitting topic to consider today, as we celebrate the loyalty to our Irish heritage.

To Your Brothers
Numbers 31:1-32:42

"Moses told the people of Gad and Reuben, 'Shall your brothers go to war while you stay behind?'" (Numbers 32:6)

These kinds of chapters are hard for pacifists to read. How do we believe in a Biblically-based pacifism when there are unavoidable passages centered around war in the Bible? To answer that complicated and important question, I'll refer you to Dale Brown's book Biblical Pacifism. Here, however, I'll concentrate on quite another issue. Moses' concern for Gad and Reuben's loyalty to their brothers. "How could you?" he's asking in essence. How could you stay behind when your brothers need you? We are one body in Christ, a family of believers with the same Father in heaven.

If only we could really see each other this way... because then there would not be war or hunger or pain. There would be no one to go to war against, for those on the other side would be our family members. We'd have a short shouting match and be done with it. Those without food would certainly be welcomed to our table where the loaves and fishes would multiply to meet the needs. There would be enough home and hospital care for those in pain, because we'd care for everyone as if they were family. Sometimes I wonder if this is a part of "taking up our cross," and I'm reminded of Simon from Cyrene who was made to carry Jesus' cross. Perhaps taking up our cross is really taking on another's pain and suffering and needs- caring and loving for all as for our own brothers, loyally.

To Us
Psalm 35:1-10

"Then I will rejoice in the Lord; I will be happy when he saves me. Even my bones will say, 'Lord, who is like you? You save the weak from the strong, the weak and poor from robbers.'" (Psalm 35:9-10)

And we have the perfect example of loyalty... a God who reaches out to us and defends and protects us, not because we deserve it but because He is a loving and loyal God. Such a beautiful verse this one. "Lord, who is like you?" Really, I constantly reflect upon God's Godliness... so holy and wonderful and unlike anything I could really compare Him to. His love is amazing in its loyalty... though I may lose my way or forget or make a misstep, "God's love endures forever." Lord, teach me to love in such a way- loyal to all of my brothers and sisters, because we are a part of the same family, not because of what they do or don't do- but to reflect Your loyal love in the world.

To Jesus
Mark 14:53-72

"At once the rooster crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered what Jesus had told him: 'Before the rooster crows twice, you will say three times that you don't know me.' Then Peter lost control of himself and began to cry." (Mark 14:72)

Oh, Peter. This last line drips with pain that we can almost feel deep within our souls. "Peter lost control of himself and began to cry." I have been there many times, even times because I have realized my mistakes. I kneel before the Lord in the quietness and oftentimes cry. Though I have not denied Jesus in word, I repent the disloyalty I have shown in breaking His commandment by saying or doing something contrary to His way. Lord, the truth is that we all need to "lose control"... we need to turn over our control of You. You really are in control of our lives, and only through recognizing this and giving our whole lives to You may we live as truly loyal Christians.

Prayers of: Promises, Petition and Persistance

Promises
Numbers 29:1-30:16

"If a man makes a promise to the Lord or says he will do something special, he must keep his promise. He must do what he said." (Numbers 30:2)

We like to make 'bargains' with God, I think this is because we can't quite wrap our minds around the chasm that exists between God's character and our own. Here on earth, we do something to get something in return. But God doesn't work that way. He blesses us, simply because He is good. He helps us, simply because He is able. He loves us, simply because He is love.

Yet there is value in making promises to God... promises, not bargains. A promise is motivated by love and friendship and commitment and devotion. It is something we do with no strings attached. There are the little promises- I'll go to church every Sunday. But there are also the big promises we make to God: to honor your parents, be faithful to your spouse, care for the foreigner and outcast, remain pure until marraige, appreciate and care for the mind, body and soul that God has given you, and follow God's leading... wherever He sends you. Those are just a few of the promises I have made, and I will keep those promises. I will do what I have said, because these are just a few ways in which I can show my devotion to a Lord who has given me everything.

Petition
Psalm 34:15-22

"The Lord sees the good people and listens to their prayers. But the Lord is against those who do evil; he makes the world forget them. The Lord hears good people when they cry out to him, and he saves them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, and he saves those whose spirits have been crushed. People who do what is right may have many problems, but the Lord will solve them all." (Psalm 34:15-19)

A God who "sees" me. A God who "listens" to my prayers. A God who is "close" to me. These are such important aspects of our relationships here on earth. Only our closest of friends really see us for who we are and love us anyway. Only our closest of friends really take time to listen to us... allow us to talk and hear us out, even when it takes an inabsorbant amount of time waiting for the shy soul to speak. Only our closest friends remain close during the tough times... stopping by to say hi or offering a much needed embrace or note of encouragement. I praise You, Lord, a Lord who has called me a "friend," no longer a servant (John 15). I thank You for Your love... shown in so many ways, but especially this morning I thank You for seeing me, listening to me, and being close to me... as I pray to You for understanding, comfort and guidance.

Persistance
Mark 14:27-52

"After walking a little farther away from them, Jesus fell to the ground and prayed that, if possible, he would not have this time of suffering. He prayed, 'Abba, Father! You can do all things. Take away this cup of suffering. But do what you want, not what I want.' Then Jesus went back to his followers and found them asleep. He said to Peter, 'Simon are you sleeping? Couldn't you stay awake with me for one hour? Stay awake and pray for strength against temptation. The spirit wants to do what is right, but the body is weak.' Again Jesus went away and prayed the same thing...After Jesus prayed a third time..." (Mark 14:35-39, 41)

We are told to pray constantly. And here with have an example of persistance and inconstancy within the same scripture. Jesus took time to pray through his pain and pray for God's will to be done- not once, not twice, but three times. Three times the same prayer within the course of the afternoon. Sometimes we pray by 'checking something off the list.' Well, I prayed. That's done. Jesus shows that prayer (close communication with God) about something is very important. When we are going through something difficult, frustrating or amazing, we don't need to cease to pray about it.

But at the same time, the disciples had fallen asleep. Jesus told them to pray for strength, but they fell asleep again. I sometimes wonder just how much they knew or didn't know. How could you at such a time simply sleep? And yet, sometimes I feel I do the same thing. There are wars raging far from home and in my neighbor's illness or loss of a family member or recent surgery, and I've "fallen asleep". Lord, help me to remember to pray... constantly, persistently, 3 times a day and more. I search out my Gethsemane to pray to you... persistent prayers of promise and petition and praise!

Ready

Ready through Repentance
Numbers 25:1-26:65

"So tell Phineas that I am making a peace agreement with him. He and his descendants will always be priests, because he had great concern for the honor of his God. He removed the sins of the Israelites so they would belong to God." (Numbers 25:12-13)

Oh Lord, how can I thank you for the way you have shown mercy on me... I who don't deserve so many second chances and so much help and love and understanding. But Lord, I am not a 'merecedor.' You love me not because I deserve it, but because You are great and kind and your mercy and love and understanding abound in ways that I could only hope to understand and emulate. Thank You for cleansing my soul, for making me new, for removing my sins and helping me to be ready for that special day... and ready for every day of serving You as best I can.

Ready through Rejoicing
Psalm 34:1-7

"I will praise the Lord at all times, his praise is always on my lips. My whole being praises the Lord. The poor will hear and be glad. Glorify the Lord with me, and let us praise his name together." (Psalm 34:1-3)

This beautiful verse reminds me of Kammy today. What a wonderful friend and beautiful spirit, my new friend from Botswana has. Just last night we had a lovely cook out at Gate's Pass, and Kammy reminded me of who made the sunset as she sang some lyrics of beautiful praise songs and reminded me of the amazing artist who created that sunset for us. Lord, may my heart like Kammy's always sing your praise... so that all may be glad and that we may sing to You forever. Today I thank You for a time to go home, to refocus, to be refreshed and ready to sing Your praises all day long.

Ready through Righteousness
Mark 13:28-37

"Always be ready. Otherwise he might come back suddenly and find you sleeping. I tell you this, and I say this to everyone: 'Be ready!'" (Mark 13:36-37)

God likens us to people who are watching a house. We are on guard and alert. Have you ever felt like you were living life asleep? Things get stale and ordinary and oh so routine. If we are really living a life filled with Jesus, every day is new- filled with new experiences and opportunities to follow Him. We meet new people, learn from others, serve in unexpected ways. While we need to take time to rest, this makes us ready to live life in 'plenitud'...in the fullness that only Jesus can bring.

So Much to Say

God-Given Words
Numbers 23:1-24:25

"Balaam said to Balak, 'When you sent messengers to me, I told them, 'Balak could give me his palace filled with silver and gold, but I still cannot go against the Lord's commands. I could not do anything good or bad, on my own, but I must say what the Lord says.'" (Numbers 24:12-13)

I referenced this yesterday, but since it was repeated in the Word, I think it's worth repeating here. It's more important to speak God's Word and do God's will than all the riches and all the personal gains to which we aspire. The things of God are so much more important, and like Balaam, I hope to be so close to my Lord that what I do and what I say are one with His words and actions. May every word that comes from my lips be Yours oh Lord.

Holy Spirit-Guided Words
Mark 13:1-27

"When you are arrested and judged, don't worry ahead of time about what you should say. Say whatever is given you to say at that time, because it will not really be you speaking; it will be the Holy Spirit." (Mark 13:11)

These two verses come closely linked together, but we have the promise of the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament. If we trust that what we are saying is God's, then we will trust that we will be given the words to say at the right time. We don't do the work, but ask the Holy Spirit to be with us and guide us in presenting the Lord's word always.

Understanding

Understanding God
Numbers 21:1-22:41

"'King Balak could give me his palace full of silver and gold, but I cannot disobey the Lord my God in anything great or small.'... That night God came to Balaam and said, 'These men have come to ask you to go with them. Go, but only do what I tell you.'... But God became angry because Balaam went, so the angel of the Lord stood in the road to stop Balaam....Then Balaam said to the angel of the Lord, 'I have sinned; I did not know you were standing in the road to stop me. If I am wrong, I will go back.'... Balaam answered, 'I have come to you now, but I can't say just anything. I can only say what God tells me to say." (Numbers 22:18,20,22,34,38)

Such an interesting story, the infamous talking donkey of the Bible. But this morning what struck me is Balaam's apparent desire to do God's will. I believe he went believing that was God's will. He just didn't exactly understand God's plan. You can see it when Balaam says, "I have sinned; I did not know you were standing in the road to stop me. If I am wrong, I will go back." I have felt like this many times. Sometimes it's not so easy to see our own sin. But, when God helps us to see, we must recognize, repent and agree to "go back." However, the beautiful thing is that we have help. We are not on our own. Lord, I ask that the Holy Spirit teach me how to go back... how to understand all Your desires and plans for my life and how to live those out.

Understanding Us
Psalm 33:6-15

"The Lord looks down from heaven and sees every person. From his throne he watches all who live on earth. He made their hearts and understands everything they do." (Psalm 33:13-15)

A Lord that understands everything I do! That's pretty amazing, seeing as I oftentimes don't understand the things I do. But our Lord God sees all, knows all, and understands all. It's so powerful to have someone understand you. It entails a close personal relationship- those who understand me have experience with who I am. And who has greater deeper knowledge of the secrets of our soul than our Lord? Thank You for understanding me, Lord... understanding when it's hard. Take my heart and let it be Yours forever, Lord.

Understanding the Teachings
Mark 12:28-44

"The man answered, 'That was a good answer, Teacher. You were right when you said God is the only Lord and there is no other God besides him. One must love God with all his heart, all his mind, and all his strength. And one must love his neighbor as he loves himself. These commands are moreimportant than all the animals and sacrifices we offer to God. When Jesus saw that the man answered him wisely, Jesus said to him, 'You are close to the kingdom of God.'" (Mark 12:32-34)

This verse stood out to me this morning, because it's so interesting that I can't recall another like it... where someone applauds or agrees with Jesus' teachings. "Yes, that's right." Or "I can see that." At least it's not recorded. Why was it recorded here? Perhaps understanding the importance and goodness of Jesus' teachings is the key to being close to the kingdom of God. We must love his word, his ways and his teaching. May I understand the beauty of Your teachings, Lord Jesus, always searching to keep that my focus all day long.

Fairest Lord Jesus

Respecting What's Fair
Numbers 19:1-20:29

"The Israelites answered: 'We will go along the main road, and if we or our animals drink any of your water, we will pay for it. We only want to walk through. That's all.' But he answered: 'You may not pass through here.' Then the Edomites went out to meet the Israelites with a large and powerful army. The Edomites refused to let them pass through their country, so the Israelites turned back." (Numbers 20:19-21)

Funny how I never really paid much attention to this before. It seems like God always just gave the Israelites what they wanted: a pathway- part the sea, food- manna, water- rock. But here, it seems to be an important lesson on respect and also patience/faith in God's plan. God seems to say that it was the Edomites land after all. If they didn't want someone passing through, it was their decision. It wasn't like they were coming after the Israelites, simply stating their wishes for their land.

And additionally, it's good to see that the Israelites didn't always get everything they wanted... which is clear from their years of wondering in the desert. But I have often felt that I was following 'the path,' only to get re-directed... why didn't it work out when it seemed so clear? Perhaps we'll never know all the whys and hows, but we need to have faith that even when things don't seem to work out 'fairly' for us, it is all in God's hand.

Loving What's Fair
Psalm 33:1-5

"God's word is true, and everything He does is right. He loves what is fair, the Lord's love fills the earth." (Psalm 33:4-5)

Both words and actions... just as we are called to tell of God's love and who God's love, we can see this example in our Heavenly Father. After all, it wouldn't be fair if we were held to a different standard. And the Lord is just. God's love has surrounded me during times of struggle and times of weakness and times of confusion and searching as well as times of great gladness and excitement. Lord, I pray that You lead me to always do what is fair in Your eyes... to seek justice in this earth and by doing so, fill it with Your love.

Paying What's Fair
Mark 12:1-27

"They gave Jesus a coin, and he asked, 'Whose image and name are on the coin?' They answered, 'Caesar's.' Then Jesus said to them, 'Give to Caesar thethings that are Caesar's, and give to God thing things that are God's.'" (Mark 12:15-17)

A familiar verse and a familiar teaching. It is obvious that Jesus' teaching is fair with regards to the money paid to whom. Yet I wonder how fair we have been with our different types of currency. If Caesar's image is on the coin, and that must be paid to Caesar; it follows that God's image on us means that we must 'pay' our lives in full to the Lord. How much of myself have I given to the Lord? I owe everything... my time, my energy, my heart, my spirit. Lord, teach me to give it all to You every day. It is not my own plans or purposes that matter but Yours, Lord.

Wonder-Working Power: Faith

God-Inheriting Power
Numbers 17:1-18:32

"The Lord also said to Aaron, 'You will not inherit any of the land, and you will not own any land among the other people. I will be yours. Out of all the Israelites, only you will inherit me.'" (Numbers 18:20)

Wow! I think Aaron got the good end of the deal. Lots of responsibility, no land... but he's got God. Of course things have changed since then, and I am thankful that we have the gift of the Holy Spirit who comes into our hearts. Such an amazing gift... the Holy Spirit is mine. And through this I have amazing power to do things I never would've imagined possible. Already in my life, I have experienced more than I would've dreamed of.

Knowing-Where-You're-Going Power
Psalm 32:6-11

"The Lord says, 'I will make you wise and show you where to go. I will guide and watch over you." (Psalm 32:8)

Just this morning Sara and I were talking about how God speaks to us in different ways- sometimes the people we meet or the things we see or just a strong feeling that can't really be described as anything else. I remember how completely shocked everyone when I just decided to pick up and go to Rio de Janeiro for a month, learning Portuguese in the morning and volunteering in a favela at night. It was a decision that I made in about a week, when normally I am planning things semesters, if not years, in advance. Somehow I just knew that it was right, and so when I worry sometimes about the future... I just need to remember that the Lord is my guide. If I don't know about the future right now, it's simply because God's decided I don't need to know yet. Because the Lord is my knowing-where-I'm-going power, and I'll know when it's time to go. He will show me and guide me and watch over me, as He always has.

Mountain-Moving Power
Mark 11:20-33

"Jesus answered, 'Have faith in God. I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, 'Go fall into the sea.' And if you have no doubts in your mind and believe that what you say will happen, God will do it for you. So I tell you to believe that you have received the things you ask for in prayer, and God will give them to you.'" (Mark 11:22-24)

This is such a beautiful verse, and so special to me here in the context of Arizona. The huge beautiful mountain ranges remind me of the enormity of God's power to do all things. Yet this verse is also challenging. It challenges my faith... do I have enough faith? Do I believe enough? Is that why things don't happen? Do I sometimes pray without the absolute assurance that God will answer my prayers? I need to remember to pray, with the certainty that God can do all things and God will answer my prayers.... after all God's is a power that can move mountains.

Show & Tell

Wear & Obey His Commands
Numbers 15:1-16:50

"Speak to the Israelites and tell them this: 'Tie several pieces of thread together and attach them to the corners of your clothes. Put a blue thread in each one of these tassels. Wear them from now on. You will have these tassels to look at to remind you of all the Lord's commands, and you will be God's holy people. I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt to be your God. I am the Lord your God." (Numbers 15:38-41)

Use of outward appearance as reminders of our inner commitments has fallen out of favor. I don't know anyone who uses the old "tie a knot on your finger as a reminder" trick anymore. Yet, I believe we all do send messages with the clothes we wear and the physical possessions and outward expression of things in general. The Brethren who used (and some who still do) conserve plain dress did so to live in simplicity and focus more on the things of God rather than the things of this world. The Brethren men would keep their beards but shave their mustaches in contrast to the military who would keep their mustaches and shave their beards. In this way, they showed their commitment to peace. While I don't do anything quite so noticeable, I try to keep my clothing purchases to a minimum and then buy things from second-hand shops... for the environment (less production of 'stuff') and for reasons of simplicity (focusing less on my clothes/outward appearance and putting the money saved into something more beneficial). Whatever we choose to do- whether it is with outward blue threads on our clothes or inward blue threads tied around our hearts- the reason is the same. Lord, help us to focus on Your commands and remind us through clothes or threads or Your word or what we see around us, that we may always remember that You are the Lord our God.

Speak & Be Forgiven
Psalm 32:1-5

"When I kept things to myself, I moaned all day long." (Psalm 32:3)

If anyone has ever felt obliged to keep a secret, a shameful secret caused by their sin, they will be able to easily understand the context of this verse. Our sin traps us and chokes us and doesn't allow us to breathe. Only freedom through confession and repentance of our sins will allow us to stop moaning and experience the beauty of the world and life once more. What is hidden is never really hidden. It is never hidden from our Lord who knows all things, but also we often fool ourselves that it is hidden from others. People are oftentimes very perceptive and know exactly what is going on, even before we decide to confide in them. Lord, I praise You and thank You for the forgiveness of the sins I have committed. You have forgiven me and given me new freedom, new hope and made me a new creature.

Come & Praise Jesus
Mark 11:1-9

"Many people spread their coats on the road. Others cut branches in the fields and spread them on the road. The people were walking ahead of Jesus and behind him, shouting, 'Praise God! God bless the One who comes in the name of the Lord! God bless the kingdom of our father David! Praise to God in heaven!'" (Mark 11:7-10)

This is one of my favorite images of the Easter season. I always loved palm Sunday! I loved acting it out. I loved physically expressing in a visual form all of the love and joy and praise that I want to give to my Lord and Savior. I can only imagine how these people must've felt. A spontaneous parade, the least we could do for one who has given us everything. Lord, I come and I extend the branches and I spread my cloak on the road before You. But now, it looks a little different. I extend Your love to those I meet and I spread Your love to all Your children... in order to show and tell of the amazing blessing of this season, the very reason for my faith and life in You.

A Lord who Came to Serve & Save

To Save
Numbers 13:1-14:45

"By your great love, forgive these people's sin, just as you have forgiven them from the time they left Egypt until now." (Numbers 14:19)

Moses begs God's forgiveness of the people's sin, and the Lord does forgive them... but they will not get to see the promised land. I'm so thankful to have the blessing of Jesus, who forgave me completely... because I will someday get to see the promised heaven which awaits us. Lord, thank you for saving me- each Sunday I savor all of the goodness you have showered upon me.

To Serve
Psalm 31:19-24

"Praise the Lord. His love to me was wonderful when my city was attacked. In my distress, I said, 'God cannot see me!' But you heard my prayer when I cried out to you for help." (Psalm 31:21-22)

God also came into the world to serve us, to help us out. We cry out to God for help and don't always receive the answer we want at the moment we want it. But as I look back on the many things I've prayed for in my life, I praise the Lord for His help in responding to all of my requests in all of the right ways. How silly I must've sounded praying for this that or the other. Lord, thank you for helping me, for serving me in Your wisdom. May You grant me the wisdom to always understand that You have everything in Your hand.

To Serve & Save
Mark 10:32-52

"He came to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many people." (Mark 10:45)

I never really noticed this verse much, but this morning I found it wonderful and beautiful that Jesus' service and salvation are set up in a parallel construction (there goes that grammar). Equating the two... which are closely linked. How can you save someone without acting in their service? Yet, we often tend to focus too much on one aspect- either Jesus' service towards others here on earth or the fact that he gave up his life to save us. The truth is that both sides are equally important... Jesus life and death... neither could exist completely without the other. Lord, I praise You for Your commitment to serve and save us all... may we follow Your example and seek to live out both.

How to Lead

As a Team
Numbers 11:1-12:16

"Why have you brought me, your servant, this trouble? What have I done wrong that you made me responsible for all these people? I am not the father of all these people, and I didn't give birth to them. So why do you make me carry them to the land you promised to our ancestors? Must I carry them in my arms as a nurse carries a baby? Where can I get meat for all these people? They keep crying to me, 'We want meat!' I can't take care of all these people alone. It is too much for me." (Numbers 11:11-14)

Ah, people. Today Dr. Panferov gave a talk on moving from a teaching position to an administrative position. In administration, you have even more responsibility for even more people. And here we have an example of a headache Moses had because of all those grumbling people in the desert. Well, what did God do about it? He had Moses bring 70 elders who would share in the responsibility, so he didn't have to deal with it all by himself. Sometimes we try to take on too much, all by ourselves. I'm particularly guilty of this sometimes. I try to do as much as I can as best as I can, and my transient lifestyle has made me quite independent. So, it's hard for me to accept help even when I need it. Good leaders work with others, not in isolation. Lord, give me the wisdom to recognize when I need to give up a little to gain a little.

As a Collector of Good Advice
Proverbs 11:12-14

"Without leadership a nation fails, but lots of good advice will save it." (Proverbs 11:14)

Advice is tricky... most of the time people don't like receiving un-asked-for advice. And sometimes even if they asked for advice and agree with the advice, they don't take it. For me, this is especially apparent in English Comp classes. Students will agree with the advice about their writing, but then they don't make the needed changes. Well, in our leadership roles it's especially important to seek out advice from the right people... who've had those experiences and who rely on God's leading to guide us... and not let that nation, church, group fail.

As a Follower
Mark 10:1-31

"Jesus said, 'I tell you the truth, all those who have left houses, brothers, sisters, mother, father, children or farms for me and for the Good News will get more than they left. Here in this world they will have a hundred times more homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and fields." (Mark 10:29-30)

The disciples led lives of both leaders and followers. They followed Jesus, but led others to Him. And though it seems crazy to leave everything, it is so true. You do gain hundreds of homes by following Him. I have 'homes' of 'families' in Brazil, Mexico, Guatemala, Spain, Boston, Lancaster that I need to visit every time I enter those cities. Perhaps I still don't have one fixed home of my own, but I have homes and families filled with wonderful amazing people who have been such a blessing in my life. I love each one of them and the part that they have had in my formation, and I thank the Lord for the richness of a life of following His leading. And Lord, I pray that I may continue to be open to Your leading for my life... because I know the richness of a life following You.

Repentance & Rejoicing

This time of year we focus on repentance and asking God to cleanse us of our sins: both topics we talked about at Bible Study on Tuesday as we looked at John 15. Our Lord is the gardener, and He will prune us... taking out those things in our lives which have no place. While this is an important part of the Lenten season, the other side, the rejoicing, is often overlooked. Our Savior gave everything in order to save us from our sins and offer us eternal salvation. And we need to keep both of this important aspects of Lent in mind, because our God is a God of rejoicing.

Rejoicing in the Festivals
Numbers 9:1-10:36

"Also blow your trumpets at happy times and during your feasts and at New Moon festivals. Blow them over your burnt offerings and fellowship offerings, because this will help you remember your God. I am the Lord your God." (Numbers 10:10)

Sometimes I skip over all of the feasts and festivals mentioned in the Bible, perhaps because they are called just that. It's hard to me to remember that in our times, this translates to: party! Of course, a contextualized party... it would be the Christmas dinner with your family or church potluck or business social event and not the out-of-control college parties. God wants us to rejoice in the happy times- to blow our trumpets, sing, laugh, enjoy the moments of gladness. Lent is traditionally marked by breaking the fast on Sundays... remembering the rejoicing in this season of repentance.

Rejoicing in God's Love
Psalm 31:6-13

"I will be glad and rejoice in your love, because you saw my suffering; you knew my troubles." (Psalm 31:7)

God's love... so much in my heart during this time of year. It's really hard to even be completely conscious of God's love to send His son to die for us... and a humiliating painful death on a cross. It's hard for us to be completely aware of this great gift all the time, because it is shocking... how could someone love me that much? It's a love too great to comprehend, a love that changes things... and indeed, it has changed the world... it has changed my world.

And the second part of this verse mentions suffering... we have all seen our share of suffering: in our own lives and in the lives of friends and loved ones. But Jesus came to earth... facing his own suffering, facing his own troubles... and experiencing/seeing the difficulties in all the people around him. His great love gave him great compassion... and gave us a close connection with our Father. I rejoice in the Lord who knows me... and even so, loves me with a greater love than I can imagine.

Rejoicing in Community
Proverbs 11:7-11

"When good people succeed, the city is happy. When evil people die, there are shouts of joy. Good people bless and build up their city, but the wicked can destroy it with their words." (Proverbs 11:10-11)

Two beautiful verses that I never really notices before, but they are so true. They speak to the individual's connection to 'the city'. (I believe here you could insert: family, community, church, workplace, group of friends.) True friends rejoice in their friends' successes... and not so much because of the magnitude of the achievement, but because of their love for their friends. It is so wonderful to see a friend or family member smile... and anything that brings a smile to their face is reason for much rejoicing!

But I especially like that this verse points out how we have an effect on our "cities." We can either build them up and bless them or tear them down. Lord, please fill me with Your Holy Spirit as You purify me this Lenten season. I ask that You teach me how to bless and build up my city for Your glory... so that my 'city' may rejoice in Your love as well.

Transform

It seems right at Lent, when we seek God' forgiveness, to also seek His transforming power... His Spirit that may teach us and purify us... so that we may no longer sin. Change our lives, Lord- our character, our direction, and our belief.

My Character
Numbers 7:1-8:26

"Make the Levites pure, and present them as an offering so that they may come to work at the Meeting Tent." (Numbers 8:15)

Last night at church, Omar mentioned how a silversmith when asked how he knew when the silver was pure, responded that he knew because he could see his reflection in it. Omar likened this to the way that we should be pure, reflecting God's image... acting in the ways that Jesus would. And when we seek purity of heart and character and thought, then we can present our lives as an offering to the Lord and do His work in this world. Lord, I want to reflect Your light in the world... transform my heart, thoughts, mind... so that I may offer the best to You.

My Direction
Psalm 31:1-5

"... For the good of your name, lead me and guide me." (Psalm 31:3)

This is easy to say, but so hard to do. We can say, take my life and lead me, Father... but we need to be ready. God will take us up on that, and we will hear Him calling us to do so many things if we listen closely. And Lord, I am here... I am listening. I want only to serve You... and I ask that You lead me wherever You would have me go. I will follow You, Lord... for the good of Your name.

My Belief
Mark 9:2-29

"Jesus said to the father, 'You said, 'If you can!' All things are possible for the one who believes.' Immediately the father cried out, 'I do believe! Help me to believe more!'" (Mark 9:23-24)

Sometimes it is so hard to believe... there are tough questions that we don't really have an answer to, questions that we must live with and lift up to the Lord. Situations sometimes also make belief difficult, but we must remember that for the one who believes, all things are possible... not just some but all things. I believe, Lord... I believe that You can take my small life and do great things for Your kingdom. But it is only possible through You. Alone I have no power to do any such thing. Help me to know the purposes You have for my life- help me to believe it more.

Promises

What We Promise to God
Numbers 5:1-6:27

"This is the teaching for the Nazirites who make a promise. Everyone who makes the Nazirite promise must give all of these gifts to the Lord. If they promise to do more, they must keep their promise according to the teaching of the Nazirites." (Numbers 6:21)

What we promise to God... this reminds me of one time that a pastor in a sermon told a story about a young man who came to a coffee shop every morning to meet a young lady. She never came, but he was there... waiting. The pastor said that this is like our quiet time with God... when we promise to make time with God in prayer or in study or in devotion, God is there. He is faithful. Isn't it time that we are faithful to our promises to Him. I also like the way this teaching makes it clear that there are certain promises that are necessary (belief in Jesus, adherence to His word, perhaps) but other promises are good... and we must keep them. What can we promise to the Lord today? What gifts can we offer to the one who has offered us absolutely everything? Lord, I give you my heart... my morning Bible reading and journaling, my prayers on my run, my short hourly prayer, and most importantly... my heart. Lord, I promise to be faithful with my promises, because You are so faithful in Yours.

What We Promise to Others
Proverbs 11:1-3

"The Lord hates dishonest scales, but he is pleased with honest weights. Pride leads only to shame; it is wise to be humble. Good people will be guided by honesty; dishonesty will destroy those who are not trustworthy." (Proverbs 11:1-3)

These three verses of Proverbs teach the importance of our promises to one another... honesty in what we do. The first reminds me of the old saying about the Brethren- that you "didn't have to weigh their grain." And the last verse reminds me of what guides our decision... honesty and loyalty in our promises... remaining true to what we have said. We are not guided by our own desires or wishes or wants, but Lord... we strive always to be guided by honest ways... telling the truth with our words and our lives. So, our words and our promises that we give to others must be true, so that others may trust our words when we tell them about You and Your promises.

What Jesus' Promises to Us

"Then Jesus called the crowd to him, along with his followers. he said, 'If people want to follow me, they must give up the things they want. They must be willing even to give up their lives to follow me. Those who want to save their lives will give up true life. But those who give up their lives for me and for the Good News will have true life.'" (Mark 8:34-36)

Ah, verse that I love. A challenging verse but filled with such a beautiful promise. Lord, I prayed this morning and I continue to pray that You will teach me about this "true life." Does it mean eternal life in heaven or a fullness of life here on earth lived out in Your presence? I feel, Lord, that it may mean both. And I feel that I have felt the beauty of life here on earth when I am living so close to You. I so much want to feel that again, Lord. I want to give up my own desires and leadings and wants, so that I may follow You and live true life. Whatever I want is nothing compared to what You promise to give me. I know this promise, for I have lived it... and I wait for Your call, Lord, and pray for Your guidance.

Something from Nothing

Responsibility from Joblessness
Numbers 3:1-4:49

"Aaron and his sons are in charge of what the Gershonites do or carry; you tell them what they are responsible for carrying." (Numbers 4:27)

This passage goes through several families and the responsibilities that God is giving to them. When you give someone a task or a responsibility, you are entrusting them to do something particular. They feel empowered and capable and valued. This reminds me of something that I saw at the Irvington Church. Each family had signed up to clean the church and to greet on specific weeks. I thought it such a beautiful thing, the way they took turns being responsible for the church.

The other night Hermano Pina said that God wants "gente dispuesta y obediente," willing (disposed) and obedient people. He joked, "So, if you're willing and obedient, be careful. God is going to use you!" But, I think there is great truth in that. Our God is great... He can take nothing and turn it into something. He can take a simple girl like myself and give me responsiblity for an emergent church in Brazil... He just needs someone willing and obedient to follow His call.

Salvation from Brokenness
Psalm 30:1-7

"I will praise you, Lord, because you rescued me. You did not let my enemies laugh at me. Lord, my God, I prayed to you, and you healed me. You lifted me out of the grave; you spared me from going down to the place of the dead." (Psalm 30:1-3)

And as we remember this Lenten season especially, God looked at a broken people filled with sin. He reached out to us and had His Son sacrifice His life for our sins. Lord, You have rescued me from myself in a very real way... from my sins so that I may have eternal life... but also from my sins so that I may have life. When I look back on other moments in my life, I was not living. I know it is You, my God who rescued me. You are so much bigger than my difficulties. And You are the one who can take a sinner and turn that sinner into a follower of Your way.

Sufficiency from Lack
Mark 8:1-21

"All the people ate and were satisfied. Then his followers filled seven baskets with the leftover pieces of food." (Mark 8:8)

A few weeks ago, we talked about this with the Sunday School class I'm blessed to teach with Yessenia. Jesus made more bread where there was so little. Where there was a need, Jesus provided. We are also accustomed to talked about our 'daily bread' as God's word... God's message. Perhaps Jesus was sending another message to His disciples and to everyone gathered there. The message of God's love is for everyone, is far reaching enough for everyone, it never ends, and there is always some left over... which we can take and give to others.

Praise the Lord who can take nothing and turn it into a great something. I am willing Lord, take me, change me, lead me, fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may be the something that You desire me to be today.

Look Forward to...

Peace
Psalm 29:10-11

"...the Lord blesses his people with peace." (Psalm 29:11)

Peace... while I have been taught as any good Brethren to "speak peace and pursue it," on another level this is quite difficult for me. I sometimes become anxious and worried about things. When I pray my way through things, I do notice a difference. And I need to remember that peace does not just refer to a world without violence, but an inner peace and sense of calm. Lord, I praise You for the peace that You have granted me in some of the most surprising times, times when I should've been so nervous and anxious. I look forward to Your promise of peace today... and I praise You for the beauty only Your peace can bring.

Happiness
Proverbs 10:26-29

"A good person can look forward to happiness, but an evil person can expect nothing." (Proverbs 10:28)

Another proverb that seems a little too lofty. Of course, we are not always happy. Things are not always easy... sometimes we face difficulties. But, we ultimately look forward to the happiness that God promises... in an eternal life in heaven, in the promise of a life with Him, dwelling in one of the many rooms in our Father's house. And I have to admit that I have been blessed so much beyond what I deserve- wonderful opportunities to learn and grow and serve, a loving family, the opportunity to study, and most recently a wonderful boyfriend who also walks with the Lord. Lord, I praise You for such happiness that You have given me here... and I look forward to the happiness of living in heaven with You.

Healing
Mark 7:24-37

"They were completely amazed and said, 'Jesus does everything well. He makes the deaf hear! And those who can't talk he makes able to speak.'" (Mark 7:37)

That Jesus... if I lived back then, I too would be completely amazed at this man who could do everything. This man who healed people... in this reading a non-Jewish woman's daughter and a man who was deaf. And God has healed me... in a different way. God has healed me from the hurt that my sins have caused to God, to myself, to others. Oh, Lord, my healer, my savior... I look forward to the promise of Your salvation, made possible by Your love. I praise You for Your healing and forgiving grace, my Lord.

Inside-Out Life

Laws
Leviticus 26:1-27:34

"If you remember my laws and commands and obey them..." (Leviticus 26:3)

It starts on the inside, like everything. First, we must remember the commands, know them in our hearts and remember them in our minds. But then, that counts for nothing if we do not obey them. It's like that saying, "Actions speak louder than words." While words and thoughts are wonderful, if they are not backed up by actions, it's hard to believe that those words are really real... are really internalized... are really heartfelt. With kids, it's quite easy to see which of your own rules you are following, because they follow the physical example of what you do before paying attention to the verbal rules that they'd have to memorize. Lord, I always try to remember Your good laws that You have given me... but even more important... I want to obey these laws... as I live my life out my faith.

Ways
Proverbs 10:22-25

"A foolish person enjoys doing wrong, but a person with understanding enjoys doing what is wise." (Proverbs 10:23)

While Proverbs is loaded with wonderful helpful suggestions, I sometimes feel it is hard to really take it into account because of the highly generalized language. How are these "foolish people" and what wrongs are they doing? We only need to look at society... people who lie and cheat and hurt others in order to advance their prestige or power or authority or careers perhaps. Most often than not, this foolish person is just taking the easiest path, the quickest route to satisfaction. We choose the harder way, "the straight and narrow" as people like to call it. But Lord, I know there is wisdom in Your ways... and although the path may sometimes seem so difficult, I know that You watch over me. On the inside, I understand Your love and wisdom, and on the outside, I enjoy doing what You would have me do.

Cleanliness
Mark 7:1-23

"And Jesus said, 'The things that come out of people are the things that make them unclean. All these evil things begin inside people, in the mind: evil thoughts, sexual sins, stealing, murder, adultery, greed, evil actions, lying, doing sinful things, jealousy, speaking evil of others, pride, and foolish living. All these evil things come from inside and make people unclean." (Mark 7:20-23)

And here's the most famous inside-out verse. Jesus sets those Pharisees straight once again. The Pharisees with their meticulous laws focused on what went inside. Jesus shifts the paradigm to focus on what comes out of their mouths, their souls, their hearts, their minds. Sometimes I think we get caught up in the meticulous 'unspoken laws' of the Pharisees. Though our decrees are not about food or drink, although they are in some cases... we have these unspoken rules about what can be worn, what can be enjoyed, where one can go. These rules are more based on image than the real heart. While rules are fine, and can serve their purpose, these rules should not separate the kingdom of God... that should always remain united in Christian love. Independent of following societal rules, our lives should following God's paths of holiness and love and service (as pastor put it this morning). Lord, may I leave behind my concerns for the particular rules and focus on the paths You would have me take... as I follow out Your plans for my life.