Are You Envious Because I Am Generous?

13"But he answered one of them, 'Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn't you agree to work for a denarius? 14Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. 15Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?'

16"So the last will be first, and the first will be last." - Matthew 20:16

Not much to say this morning or much to say it, but this question hits me this morning. "Are you envious because I am generous?"

Sometimes we do believe that we "deserve" things, because that's the way the world works. You present at conferences and make posters and get good grades, and you "deserve" to get into that perfect grad program. But... imagine the admissions director saying to someone else... well, you pulled straight C's and you never presented a thing, always doing the bare minimum, but now you promise to change. So, ok... you're in.

What? Are you kidding me???

Did I do all that work for nothing??? - Our hearts want to cry out... "It's not fair!"

The key is to see and appreciate God's generosity and to challenge ourselves to be like him... as open and loving and caring and generous and nonjudgmental as He is with all of His children. We love, because He first loved us. And in that love, we have the example of the perfect agape love that we must model for others.

Are You Up to the Challenge?

I remember that my ex-boyfriend Alexandre would comment, "Mulher fogo! Ela gosta das coisas mais dificeis!" This was in response to how I commented that I liked my hard work-outs and running up the mountain. Translated it means, "Gutsy woman! She likes the more challenging things!" I suppose I've proven the point again with my recent marathon... and now my goal to be a Boston qualifier. I wonder when it's started. It's always been this way. The surest way to make sure I was going to reach a goal was to challenge me on it and tell me I can't. Then look at how fast I'll prove you wrong! Well, Jesus provides some really wonderful challenges in today's scripture reading.

The Challenge of No-Matter-What Love & Commitment

4"Haven't you read," he replied, "that at the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female,'[a] 5and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh'[b]? 6So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."

7"Why then," they asked, "did Moses command that a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?"

8Jesus replied, "Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. 9I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery."

10The disciples said to him, "If this is the situation between a husband and wife, it is better not to marry."

11Jesus replied, "Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given. 12For some are eunuchs because they were born that way; others were made that way by men; and others have renounced marriage[c]because of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it." -Matthew 19:7-12


Making a commitment seems to be harder for people in this opt-out society. People want to keep their options open. They switch jobs, move more frequently. We've become more attracted to change and less content with what we have and the comfort of stability. I wonder whether it's the situation of the chicken and the egg. Which came first? Divorce? Or doubt of stability and commitment in marriage?

The rate of divorce is alarming. Maybe people don't recognize the wedding as what it really is... they concentrate on colors and dresses instead of the really important thing- making a commitment before God, friends and family to honor, respect, love and serve one another for all the days of your life. The good days, and the bad days.

In the Fall, I remember Brad and I had a misunderstanding. I can't say fight, because we weren't of two different opinions. It was just a misunderstanding of each other's styles of expression. I was worried. I thought he might not want to work things out or see the many good things in our relationship. I told my good friend Reena, "I don't know. I just, sometimes I think it might just be easier to stop, to let it go." She responded, "That would be easier," and let me continue by saying, "Well, I guess the thing that matters the most to me is if I'm still good for him." Once he reassured me of this fact, I was ready to stay, ready to talk about things, ready to understand and mend what had been broken, heal the wounds that had opened.

A commitment is a challenge, but I firmly believe that God has given us this word, that God has brought us together, and that we are up to this very beautiful challenge: difficult at times but so beautiful and rewarding in the long run. It'll be a beautiful marathon.


The Challenge of Simple Living & Following God

6Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?"
17"Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments."

18"Which ones?" the man inquired.

Jesus replied, " 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, 19honor your father and mother,'[d] and 'love your neighbor as yourself.'[e]"

20"All these I have kept," the young man said. "What do I still lack?"

21Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."

22When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.

23Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."

25When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, "Who then can be saved?"

26Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."

27Peter answered him, "We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?"

28Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother[f] or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. 30But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.

If anyone may criticize my writings, it's probably on the basis that I focus mostly on application and what God calls us to do based on what I read. People prefer to look at the scriptures and see the character of God and see the story, without putting it into the context of their own lives. And I think that's the easier way to do it. But I don't think Jesus intends it to be easy.

I believe we can see that this direction is meant for us, because some random man came up to Jesus and asked what to do. It wasn't meant specifically for his disciples. So, he told the man the commands to follow. When the man said he did all of that, Jesus presents the challenge to be perfect.... leave everything and follow me.

People talk about callings and vocation quite a lot, about how certain people are set apart for ministry. And the Bible definitely does teach that, but this verse makes me wonder. How much of it is obedience to a call that Jesus gives to all of us. Perhaps some of us are just more sensitive towards it... our hearts are tender toward His leadings. Jesus says, Come. Follow. And we must trust that He will prepare and direct and lead us.

I don't mean to skip the first part, which is also very important- selling possessions to the poor- but you must also recognize that this is connected. Jesus doesn't separate the two. They are connected. Selling everything to the poor is with the hope to follow Jesus more closely, whether that's in a physical or spiritual sense. And in today's society... that's a huge challenge. Both are a huge challenge. Here are the university, students get used to living with relatively little. But, how many students tithe and donate to the poor? I've always found it poignant where Jesus says- who ever is faithful with little, will be faithful with much. When I lived in Brazil, I was earning $60/month or perhaps less due to the cost of the dollar and my commitment to cover the cost of housing. But, I always tithed. It wasn't much... but it was something I could give.

Leave everything.

Sell your possessions to the poor.

Follow me.

Our reward will be great in heaven, and I believe it is a very rewarding life on earth as well. People talk about what I did as kind, but the irony of that kind of work is that you are blessed beyond belief. I loved my time in Brazil- so close to my God, so close to His heart, so close to the challenge.

Guide for the Straight and Narrow

God Guides Us Through:

His Word and His Presence

When the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance 19 and said to Moses, "Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die."

20 Moses said to the people, "Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning."

21 The people remained at a distance, while Moses approached the thick darkness where God was.-Exodus 20:18-21

This morning as I read this passage about the 10 commandments, I couldn't help but think about how God used both His words and commands as well as His presence to guide the people and "keep them from sinning." I wonder what the word "test" means exactly in this context. It doesn't seem to quite fit as I think of the word.

But, even more powerful that what God says is the way He says it. Thunder and lightening, thick darkness. When you see or feel the presence of the Lord, it is a very powerful thing. I am so blessed by His presence. At moments I have felt it more fiercely than others, but I always feel it in church, in my quiet time, surrounded by the community of my brothers and sisters in Christ. Lord, let me always be in tune to Your presence. I praise You for that in my life.


Jesus' Example & Jesus' Command

2"Then the master called the servant in. 'You wicked servant,' he said, 'I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?' 34In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.

35"This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart." -Matthew 18:32-35

At Bethany last Spring, I remember that we read this passage and discussed how different denominations would read it with the purpose to learn the right praise (orthopathy), right practice (orthopraxis) and belief (orthodoxy). Let's have a mini look at this concept.

Orthopathy: We praise God because of the example He gave in Jesus for forgiveness. Jesus came and forgave all the sins of the world, so we take joy and celebrate that forgiveness in forgiving others.

Orthopraxis: We see the example of what Jesus did and His reaction to the wicked man. Based on Jesus' ultimate example of infinite forgiveness, we are also challenged to forgive our brother 7x70 (which really means... infinitely, because who would count that high? or keep track?) We need to practice the forgiveness that Jesus lived out in His life and spoke of in this passage.

Orthodoxy: We see how Jesus is condemning the wicked man because he did not forgive the debt. Jesus' frustration with the man comes from the fact that Jesus himself forgave all of that man's debt. Then, after the story, Jesus comments that everyone will be treated like the wicked man if they fail to forgive their brothers/sisters as Jesus forgave them. (This is the hardest for me. Ironically it's the style of everyone in GCF; conservative Christians focus on orthodoxy.)

Advice

Unwanted advice is sometimes the worst thing to give someone. However, there are times when we need advice, even when we don't recognize it. There are times when we need advice to help us with what we are doing (Moses), to clarify a point (Jesus) and to correct (read Matthew). And in each instance, we many find helpful advice coming from family, from our Lord and from our brothers and sisters in Christ

Advice from Family

13 The next day Moses took his seat to serve as judge for the people, and they stood around him from morning till evening. 14 When his father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he said, "What is this you are doing for the people? Why do you alone sit as judge, while all these people stand around you from morning till evening?"

15 Moses answered him, "Because the people come to me to seek God's will. 16 Whenever they have a dispute, it is brought to me, and I decide between the parties and inform them of God's decrees and laws."

17 Moses' father-in-law replied, "What you are doing is not good. 18 You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone. 19 Listen now to me and I will give you some advice, and may God be with you. You must be the people's representative before God and bring their disputes to him. 20 Teach them the decrees and laws, and show them the way to live and the duties they are to perform. 21 But select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. 22 Have them serve as judges for the people at all times, but have them bring every difficult case to you; the simple cases they can decide themselves. That will make your load lighter, because they will share it with you. 23 If you do this and God so commands, you will be able to stand the strain, and all these people will go home satisfied."

24 Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said. 25 He chose capable men from all Israel and made them leaders of the people, officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. 26 They served as judges for the people at all times. The difficult cases they brought to Moses, but the simple ones they decided themselves.

I've always loved this passage, especially because I feel that I myself am very prone to what Moses was doing, as well as society in general. We are individualistic, taking on whatever we can do ourselves. A book I read as a kid was "I Can Do It Myself." In the book, it talked about tying shoes and brushing teeth, but the sentiment started early. We are taught early that we can (and should) "do it ourselves." Sometimes it's harder to let others in on the process.

And right now as I deal with a big decision, I need to allow the people who God has placed in my life to help me with advice, wisdom, counsel.


Advice from Jesus

1At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?"
2He called a little child and had him stand among them. 3And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

5"And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. 6But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.

It is equally important to turn to the scriptures and prayer to seek God's wisdom for our lives. Jesus has the answer, and He choses to disclose it at the right time. It is amazing how His word provides so many of the answers to the concerns that are on my heart. Just by searching His word, He comes to us. Recently I have been nervous about my direction next year and which way God would have me go. This morning, in this Bible reading, I see God directing me to seek counsel with my family, Him (prayer), and my brothers and sisters in Christ. I am not in it alone.


Advice from Your Brother

15"If your brother sins against you,[b] go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. 16But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'[c] 17If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector.
18"I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be[d]bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be[e] loosed in heaven.

19"Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."

This is the hardest advice. To give this advice well (in a loving manner) and to accept it with grace and a humble heart. It might be easy to point the finger, but it's much harder to point out a needed change in a brother or sister in a way that is genuinely loving, based on their own good. And to accept such advice without a chorus of resistance takes great strength and humility of character.

I find it especially beautiful, that verses 19 and 20 follow this. It would seem that maybe we are being directed to pray together for the change that needs to come about in our brother and sister... a new lifestyle, a new dedication to the Lord, a new habit of Bible study every morning, etc.


Lord, this morning I pray that You would guide and direct me in Your paths. I know that I may come to You, seeking and expecting answers. I also pray that You would give me a sense of peace, and show me the ways of Your peace.

Moreover, I pray for my Aunt Joan, Lord. Please heal her body. Help her as she recovers from her surgery. Bless and comfort her and her family, and ease her heart. Also I pray for Jess' sister, Mark's sister and thank You for a day that I may begin in your presence Lord. It is so beautiful.

Returning to God... His Grace and Mercy

Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents from doing harm. —Joel 2:13

Leaving God- The Israelites Complain

10 As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the LORD. 11 They said to Moses, "Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? 12 Didn't we say to you in Egypt, 'Leave us alone; let us serve the Egyptians'? It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!"

13 Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. 14 The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."-Exodus 14:10-14

The Israelites... slaves with whatever they could carry... are being pursued by the Egyptians soldiers who have chariots and armor and weapons. Of course, they're a bit nervous! Wouldn't you be? But... they are so frightened that they say things like, "Did you bring us out here to die? Is it because there weren't enough graves in Egypt? We would've died there... but we'll die here in the desert instead!"

The Israelites are afraid, and we often succumb to fear. But... we know that really we need only fear the Lord our God. He is in control. Moses tries to convince them that everything is in God's hands... something that I need to remind myself often.


Returning to God- They Sing His Praise

13 "In your unfailing love you will lead
the people you have redeemed.
In your strength you will guide them
to your holy dwelling. -Exodus 15:13

When Pharaoh's horses, chariots and horsemen [g] went into the sea, the LORD brought the waters of the sea back over them, but the Israelites walked through the sea on dry ground. 20 Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron's sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her, with tambourines and dancing. 21 Miriam sang to them:
"Sing to the LORD,
for he is highly exalted.
The horse and its rider
he has hurled into the sea." -Exodus 15:19-21

After God has parted the sea and brought them to safety, the Israelites dance and sing and rejoice. They are thankful and their faith in God's goodness is renewed. But also important is God's grace. Even to this unbelieving people who were so afraid and not trusting in God, the Lord was merciful and brought them through.

I felt this way on Sunday, when God lifted a huge burden off my heart... a weight that had been holding me back and making my heart so heavy. The Lord healed it for me, and it was fitting that 3 girls from the church presented a special music with dancing. It was the way I felt inside... joyful that my Father had taken care of my heart and soul once again... renewing my faith in His grace and mercy, despite the moments when I feel hopeless.



Leaving God- Peter Speaks Without Knowing the Answer

24After Jesus and his disciples arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma tax came to Peter and asked, "Doesn't your teacher pay the temple tax[b]?"
25"Yes, he does," he replied.
When Peter came into the house, Jesus was the first to speak. "What do you think, Simon?" he asked. "From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes—from their own sons or from others?"

26"From others," Peter answered.

In the manner that we come to expect of Peter, he answers quickly without really knowing the truth of whether Jesus pays the taxes or not. But Jesus uses this as a teaching opportunity... asking who the kings collect their duty from. Jesus, as King, does not owe anything.


Returning to God- Jesus Provides, Telling Peter Where to Look for the Tax Money

"Then the sons are exempt," Jesus said to him. 27"But so that we may not offend them, go to the lake and throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours."

But some do not recognize Jesus as King, so in order to hold true to the customs of the land, Jesus instructs Peter in how to obtain the tax money. Although Jesus provides what is needed, Peter must actively do something in order to receive it.

This passage can also be interpreted another way. In the Old Covenant, we are not direct children of God... we have been separated by sin, so the atonements of sacrifices in the Old Testament can be seen as the "taxes" that we pay. But, Jesus came and paid the tax for our sin, making us once again children of God... debt-free. Now, we (the Lord's children) are exempt.

Additionally, we need to obey the laws of the land, as we live as "strangers" even in our own home among our own people. Following our Lord makes us all alien to the ways of the world in a certain way. Still, we must pay 'to Caesar what is Caesar's' and recognize that God will provide a means. This does not mean that we should be lazy, however... we need to go and do the work God has given to us... and He will provide.

A Sign of the Times

Brethren are much more comfortable talking about signs and symbols than sacraments (like our Catholic brothers and sisters). We see them as ways to remember something, ways to represent something. It's like "Rumors of Another World" by Yancey... recommended to me by my cousin Emily. Today I read of several "signs" of another world, which remind us that there is indeed something bigger beyond ourselves.

A Sign of Christ in Our Lives

“Your joy no one will take from you” -John 16:22

The joy of a Christian. I can't help but think of my dear friend Kammy who I met last year. An exchange student from Botswana, our paths crossed here at the U of A, and selfishly I wish she would've still been here amongst us. We were fast friends, Kammy and I, both excitable and genuinely filled with joy. Many people find that joy confusing, but we understood each other so well.

The ODB today tells that "sadness" was one of the original deadly sins. To be melancholy all the time might be a sign that you don't have the Lord in your live... that you're not allowing Him to bring the "joy" that He has promised in Galatians as the fruit of the Spirit. Allow all to see the joy that Jesus brings to your life, the sign that the Spirit is working in you.


A Sign of God's Faithfulness

14 "In days to come, when your son asks you, 'What does this mean?' say to him, 'With a mighty hand the LORD brought us out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. 15 When Pharaoh stubbornly refused to let us go, the LORD killed every firstborn in Egypt, both man and animal. This is why I sacrifice to the LORD the first male offspring of every womb and redeem each of my firstborn sons.' 16 And it will be like a sign on your hand and a symbol on your forehead that the LORD brought us out of Egypt with his mighty hand." -Exodus 13:14-16

I love special times of celebration, special ceremonies, because they are a sign of God's faithfulness. Passover was a way to remember how God had been faithful in saving all the firstborn children of the Israelites, how he brought them out of Egypt and out of slavery. When we wash each other's feet in church, we remember how Christ came to the world for us... to cleanse us of our signs, to make himself humble before us, to do what no one else would do.

In marrying Brad, his promise to be faithful to me will be as Christ's promise of faithfulness to His people and His church. We've decided to observe feetwashing as a part of our wedding ceremony in order to remember our promise to faithfully serve and humble ourselves before one another... a sign of our commitment, of our love, and of our humble service to one another, to God and to the church. And we ask God to prepare us, to teach us, to in some way be able to mirror His love for the church in our love for each other. That's the most important thing about the wedding... Lord help me to remember this.


A Sign Will Not Be Given

1The Pharisees and Sadducees came to Jesus and tested him by asking him to show them a sign from heaven.
2He replied,[a] "When evening comes, you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,' 3and in the morning, 'Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. 4A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah." Jesus then left them and went away. -Matthew 16:1-4

This verse reminds me of what I wrote the other day about "seeing/believing." These doubtful Pharisees say that in seeing they would believe. But if they saw a miracle, their manners suggest that they'd immediately look for a way to discredit it... something that's also very characteristic of our generation. We're taught to doubt first, to "prove it." Not necessarily difficult, but it makes discussions of "faith" and "Spirit" rather difficult to explain.

I've once again felt the Lord's hand so close to my life. I was overwhelmed and anxious and nervous. I felt trapped, with a great weight upon me. And just as suddenly, after prayer, the Lord lifted that away, allowing me to feel free of that burden, allowing me to forgive, allowing me to look towards the hope and see the love that is in front of me. That change of heart is what is so difficult to explain with scientific proofs and tests... to give a sign to someone who doesn't believe it.

A note about the sign of Jonas. Some scholars note that here Jesus is making reference to himself. As Jonas was a sign of destruction for people in Nineveh who didn't believe, Jesus would be that as well. (And it's especially meaningful as he talks to these doubting Pharisees.) Also, some believe that the Jonas also represents the days in nights spent in the tomb (the days and nights Jonas spent in the whale).

Perhaps Jesus means what he says. He is giving a sign to His people who believe in Him, but not to "this generation" or the "corruption of this generation." Without the willingness or heart or spirit to interpret, it wouldn't be a sign of anything to them.


A Sign of the Spirit

Peter's Confession of Christ

13When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?"
14They replied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets."

15"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?"

16Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ,[b] the Son of the living God."

17Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven. 18And I tell you that you are Peter,[c] and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades[d] will not overcome it.[e] 19I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be[f] bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be[g] loosed in heaven." 20Then he warned his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.

Jesus Predicts His Death

21From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.
22Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. "Never, Lord!" he said. "This shall never happen to you!"

23Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men."

24Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25For whoever wants to save his life[h] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. 26What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? 27For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father's glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what he has done. 28I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom."

Rather a long passage to include this morning, but what I noticed this morning is that these two accounts of Peter come in succession in Matthew. Not only that, but what Jesus says to Peter is remarkable different, as bolded in the preceding text. First, we have Peter who recognizes Jesus... and Jesus calls Peter blessed, noting that the Spirit has made this known to him. Then, just a few lines later, Peter is denying what Jesus has told him. And now, Jesus rebukes Peter, telling Satan (the force in him making him say these things) to get behind him.

This is the reasoning for why the protestant church believes that it is not Peter that Jesus plans to build his church upon... but that Spirit that was within Peter. Similar to the preceding chapter, we see that it is what comes out of someone's mouth that is a sign of what kind of spirit is in that person. Let our words and our actions be a sign of the Spirit that is within us... the Spirit upon which Christ builds His church.

None Like You

An Amazing God

13 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Get up early in the morning, confront Pharaoh and say to him, 'This is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: Let my people go, so that they may worship me, 14 or this time I will send the full force of my plagues against you and against your officials and your people, so you may know that there is no one like me in all the earth. -Exodus 9:13-14

9 The LORD had said to Moses, "Pharaoh will refuse to listen to you—so that my wonders may be multiplied in Egypt." -Exodus 11:9

Reflecting on this passage this morning, it's true. Had the Pharaoh said, "Alright, guys. Go. Have a nice time. See you later," then we wouldn't have had any of these signs and miracles. We wouldn't have this example of how the Lord takes care of His children. These plagues were signs not just for the Pharaoh, not just for the Egyptians or the officials, but for the Israelites as well. They saw the power of God working through Moses, their faith in God increased, and they were ready to follow him to the Promised Land. I'm not sure much less would've convinced such a group of people to wander the desert.

I feel like sometimes it does work this way. When we speak of God and His faithfulness in our lives, not only are others encouraged... we are encouraged also. Praising God, knowing God, loving God... and keeping all these things on our lips and on our heart remind us that there is none like Him.


A Powerful God

27"Yes, Lord," she said, "but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table."

28Then Jesus answered, "Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted." And her daughter was healed from that very hour. -Matthew 15:27-28

I've read this story so many times, but this morning I'm struck by a different thought. First, the woman's answer shows surprising faith in Jesus' power, because she recognizes that Him healing her daughter is just a "crumb." She acknowledges Jesus infinite power by recognizing that it is so easy for him... that He has authority over everything... it's like something that falls away from Him, no effort exerted. Not everyone at this point in time would realize Jesus power to heal as a "crumb."

There is no one else as powerful... to be able to call such a great miracle a "crumb."


A Compassionate God

32Jesus called his disciples to him and said, "I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way."- Matthew 15:32

I likr this story as told in Matthew. Matthew not only gives the actions but the motives. Jesus didn't just perform the miracle because He could. He didn't just provide food for no reason. He did so, because He had compassion on the people. He worried about their ability to make it back to town in a good state.

His love and compassion are still what motivate Him to provide and care for us. Thank You, Father, for taking compassion upon us... using Your unfathomable power for the benefit of Your children. I praise You for all that You have done in my life and for all that You will do in my life.

Tender Heart

Keep Your Heart Tender Toward God

My cousins and I loved the Care Bears so much when we were little that we actually wore out the Care Bear video to the point that you could barely seen the screen and the music was all scratchy and wobbly. I always felt like we were our own version of the Care Bear Cousins. I especially loved Tender Heart, who always had a smile, a gentle word and a kind manner about him. Kids, more than anyone, appreciate that kind, mild-mannered gentle tenderness embodied so poignantly in Jesus... who said, "Let the children come to me."

Well, He still wants His children to come to Him with the tender heart He has modeled... In keeping our hearts tender toward God, we are able to discern and follow His call, obey His commands and speak His word and message with our lips and our lives.


And Follow His Call

I alone am left; and they seek to take my life. —1 Kings 19:10

The reading in the ODB today tells the story of Elijah. He was ready to give up, so ready in fact that he kept trying to quit. But, God wouldn't let him. It's funny, because it's after Elijah has already done so much... but he becomes afraid of Queen Jezebel's threats, as we often fear so many things of this world and forget that God is so much bigger than any of that.

It's kind of funny in fact. It's like if you'd try to fire an employee, but they keep coming back to work the next day. Or if you try to break up with a boyfriend, but they keep calling you or stopping by to talk. Elijah wanted to give up on God, but God wasn't ready to give up on Elijah. And in such an instance, isn't it wonderful to know who always wins out.

But the idea here is that Elijah felt lost, felt incapable, because he had lost sight of the fact that he was in God's sight, that God made him capable. Elijah's heart had become less tender, less flexible or less able to be molded by the Potter's hand. So, he ran far away. Only later did his heart soften... when he again recognized God with all his heart, mind and soul.


And Obey His Commands

So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did just as the LORD commanded. -Exodus 7:10

For all of their hemming and hawing, Moses and Aaron seem to finally pull themselves together by this point in the story. In fact, the Lord commands them to create a series of plagues in Egypt, and they obey. There's no... "aw, come on. Snakes? Really?" or "I can't do THAT!" It's different this time. They simply obey. Two times in succession in the same chapter, we see that "Moses and Aaron... did just what the Lord commanded."

I pray that my heart may be so tender toward God, that I may recognize all that He calls me to do, and that I may do just what He commands. Lord, please help make my heart so open to Your will, that I would feel and knew and do just what You would have me do... today and always.


And Honor God with Word and Heart

7You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you:
8" 'These people honor me with their lips,
but their hearts are far from me.
9They worship me in vain;
their teachings are but rules taught by men.'" -Matthew 15:7-9

17"Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? 18But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' -Matthew 15:17

In today's passage, Jesus "calls out" the Pharisees for how their hearts are 'far from Him,' just as it was prophesied. They may speak of the Lord but their hearts and their lives show something different. They follow the ways of the world, the teachings of men, instead of a higher calling. And he follows by clarifying that no type of food that goes into your body can make you unclean or condemn you. It is what comes out of your mouth, what comes from your heart that may make you unclean or clean as the case may be.

Last night sitting around the table at GCF, I was struck by a thought. When we're discussing things in that group, I wish we could make it different than our seminar classes... because in essence it is so different. We are not only talking about semantics, words or thoughts... what we are talking about matters. We need to come together to really seek God with all our heart... be tender toward what He is saying to us. As we thought about our sense of purpose that God calls us to, I recognized that our purpose is to know God. It's easy to give this answer as you would in a class. "Good. A+."

But, the point is not to have this fact: Our purpose is to know God. The point is to live it. How can we live out knowing God at every moment?

That's the key... that's keeping our hearts tender toward God... the difference between thinking words and feeling God's presence and keeping our hearts close to Him.


Lord, this morning... I pray for all my brothers and sisters in Haiti... I know that their faith far outshines my own. Please be with them in a real way. Help keep their hearts tender toward you at this very trying time, assuring them that you are there for them. Watch over the Heishmanns as they are there, guide them and give them strength and wisdom to deal with the situations that come about. I pray for my cousin Marisa and my new baby cousin-to-be. I pray for my Aunt Joan... please heal her leg, give her patience, and comfort her as she heals. And watch over Jamie and heal her body. Continue to guide Jon and myself as we look for jobs and what you're leading us to this next year. Also, keep watching over Amy and Adam, their work for you. I know you are faithful to them, Lord, and I thank you for their faithful service to You.

Seeing isn't Believing- Believing is Seeing

In the movie "The Santa Clause," the little boy says to his father, "Seeing isn't believing. Believing is seeing." Just because people see something doesn't mean they will believe it. I wonder how much more this is true today, where we have all sorts of special effects that can trick our eyes and most of our senses. In some ways, all our technology seems to have resulted in a higher rate of doubt. But, maybe it's not that different from back in the day. Just look at Moses and Peter, for example. They saw, but they still had problems believing.


Seeing the Burning Bush & Miracles... Moses still didn't believe.

10 Moses said to the LORD, "O Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue."

11 The LORD said to him, "Who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, the LORD ? 12 Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say."

13 But Moses said, "O Lord, please send someone else to do it."

14 Then the LORD's anger burned against Moses and he said, "What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he can speak well. He is already on his way to meet you, and his heart will be glad when he sees you. 15 You shall speak to him and put words in his mouth; I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do. 16 He will speak to the people for you, and it will be as if he were your mouth and as if you were God to him. 17 But take this staff in your hand so you can perform miraculous signs with it." -Exodus 4:10-17

Moses has just been standing in front of a burning bush! He has watched his rod be turned into a snake and back into a rod again! Is that enough to make him believe in God's power to do anything through him? Apparently not. Moses starts in with the "buts." But... I don''t speak well. "I'll teach you what to say." And then we get to the crux of the matter. Moses says, "Send someone else," or "I don't wanna." God is angry, but He's not giving up. He finally offers his brother Aaron to help. They'll both work together and God will prepare them. Moses is still nervous. In fact, in the next chapter he comments twice, "Why would Pharaoh listen to me? I have faltering lips." (I guess he didn't get the Aaron memo.) Anyway, there's another important lesson hidden here. Even if Moses wasn't sure 100%, he was still faithful to what he was called to do. Even in his disbelief, he acted in belief. Perhaps, sometimes doing, following, obeying is the key to seeing.

I was particularly touched when I read verses 14-15 this morning. I wonder whether that is what God is doing in my life. I have felt called to ministry, but I have also felt nervous at the thought of pastoring a church on my own. Is the church ready to accept a female pastor? How would I deal with different kinds of issues on my own? I wonder whether He has said to me, "What about your fiance Brad? I will teach both of you to speak and teach you what to do." Maybe this is God's way of giving me a bit of extra confidence, encouraging me to be obedient to His call and recognize that He can and will prepare me, even if I can't see it right now.


Seeing Jesus Walk on Water... Peter still didn't believe

27But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."

28"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."

29"Come," he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"

31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"

32And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God." -Matthew 14:27-33

Peter is another classic example of seeing but not believing quite enough. Peter saw Jesus on the water, and he took the first steps of faith. But something happened, he felt insecure, something wasn't going right. In fact, it sounds kind of like the story of Moses. "Lord, why are you bringing only hardship on the people? Pharaoh won't listen and is making things worse for them!" Moses had his moments to doubt what was going on. And in the middle of the dark mysterious sea, Peter probably looked around and couldn't believe what he saw, what was going on. In seems to me more like when you're walking on a tightrope or wire and then you stop and think about it... "What! I'm that high?!? I don't believe it!"

But Jesus said, "It is I." Not just a declaration of who the physical person was in the water... but it was Jesus, Lord and authority of all that beckoned Peter to come. That was what Peter had failed to have faith in. He failed to believe that the great "I am" would take him to meet Jesus.... none of his own power.

But in each of the stories, Peter and Moses are obedient despite their disbelief, and Jesus is faithful in coming to their aid. God helps Moses to get the people out of Egypt, and Jesus pulls Peter from drowning in the deep. And even more, it is the source of great joy and praise for the Lord. People praised God for how Moses helped to bring them out of Egypt, and people praised God for how Jesus had been walking on water and helped Peter into the boat, as the wind died down. May all our lives be a means to worship You, Father.

Lord I pray that You would help me to be productive this day, completing all that I need to finish. Also, Lord, help me be a light to my students and anyone who needs to hear of You. And watch over Jamie... help the doctors to heal her. Take care of my Aunt Joan in her surgery. Continue to watch over Marisa in her pregnancy, and help Mannu's break to be beneficial for him.

Get Up, Stand Up: We Obey a Different Authority

Wow! I've really been moved by these scripture readings this morning and something that God has really laid on my heart. Sometimes obeying our only authority, the Lord, means disobeying our world's established authorities, disobeying earthly rules, and even speaking out against the ways of the world.

This is something that has been somehow entrenched in me, because the Quakers and the Brethren along with other "peaceful people" are often the ones who speak out with protests, letters and their lives. These scriptures and countless others evidence that it is our responsibility to hold God in highest authority, and in order to do that we must sometimes confront or even counter the earthly symbols and systems of authority. We are charged to be counter-cultural, to hold everyone to a higher standard of living and loving and obeying only one authority, God.


Standing Up Through Civil Disobedience
Disobeying the Authority

15 The king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, whose names were Shiphrah and Puah, 16 "When you help the Hebrew women in childbirth and observe them on the delivery stool, if it is a boy, kill him; but if it is a girl, let her live." 17 The midwives, however, feared God and did not do what the king of Egypt had told them to do; they let the boys live. 18 Then the king of Egypt summoned the midwives and asked them, "Why have you done this? Why have you let the boys live?"

19 The midwives answered Pharaoh, "Hebrew women are not like Egyptian women; they are vigorous and give birth before the midwives arrive."

20 So God was kind to the midwives and the people increased and became even more numerous. 21 And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own. -Exodus 1:15-21

These midwives really had guts. They went against the Pharaoh's orders and even told a lie in the process. But, why did they do this? They did so, because they feared the Lord. They knew that what the Pharaoh was doing wasn't right, wasn't godly, wasn't good and wasn't pleasing the Lord. Their standing up against the Pharaoh was a powerful way for them to say... we obey the Lord before any earthly authority. We know that what our God tells us is what is right. If what you are saying contradicts His ways, we don't want any part in it.

We live is a fallen world, and it's important for us to live with our eyes fixed on Jesus and a careful watch upon the ways of the world. If what we see happening around us contradicts Jesus call, we must swim against the stream, shake things up. Though not in my personal background, my religious heritage of Brethren come from a long line of movers and shakers. I remember the story of a cousin who went to war but refused to carry a weapon. There are still Brethren to this day who live below the poverty level in order not to pay taxes, so they are not supporting war efforts in any way. That's why they say that it is "a different way of living."


Standing Up Through Circumventing the Law
Disobeying the Law

5 Then Pharaoh's daughter went down to the Nile to bathe, and her attendants were walking along the river bank. She saw the basket among the reeds and sent her slave girl to get it. 6 She opened it and saw the baby. He was crying, and she felt sorry for him. "This is one of the Hebrew babies," she said.

7 Then his sister asked Pharaoh's daughter, "Shall I go and get one of the Hebrew women to nurse the baby for you?"

8 "Yes, go," she answered. And the girl went and got the baby's mother. 9 Pharaoh's daughter said to her, "Take this baby and nurse him for me, and I will pay you." So the woman took the baby and nursed him. 10 When the child grew older, she took him to Pharaoh's daughter and he became her son. She named him Moses, [c] saying, "I drew him out of the water." -Exodus 2:5-10

Can you imagine? Good old Dad just passed a law to kill all the Hebrew babies, and his precious daughter has fallen in love with a little one. It sounds almost like a girl outside a pet store with a father who has vowed never to own a dog in his life. A puppy comes out, jumps into the girls lap, she laughs and smiles the biggest brightest smile you've ever seen, and looks up at Dad... "Dad, can we keep him?" Even more than a daughter going against her father's orders, we see how Moses' mother and sister "worked the system."

Being females themselves, that beautiful and special gender... not that I'm biased or anything, they put all their stock in the fact that Pharaoh's daughter would see the adorable baby boy and her emotions would overcome her memory of the silly law. Then, Miriam ran to get her mother to be the nurse until Moses reached proper age. Like the Brethren who live below the poverty level, they don't disobey the law... they just circumvented it. Technically, Moses' mother did throw the baby into the Nile and technically Miriam followed the Pharaoh's daughters' orders at finding a Hebrew nurse for the boy. Sometimes following a higher authority requires great creativity.

Standing Up Through Speaking Out
Upholding God's Law and Speaking Against the Authority

3Now Herod had arrested John and bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, 4for John had been saying to him: "It is not lawful for you to have her." 5Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid of the people, because they considered him a prophet. -Matthew 14:3-5

Finally, at times the system has it so wrong, that we must use our voices and speak out. We speak out through songs, letters, petition, prayer, protest, actions, and many other means. And sometimes speaking out requires great risk. To be a self-proclaimed pacifist in today's society and especially in Arizona comes with costs and risks. Some people will think you "crazy" or just plain "stupid". People won't understand what you mean when you talk about a need for a change, a world where killing is no longer acceptable and how it is not Christian and not what Jesus would do.

Similarly, John saw Herod doing something unlawful, and he wasn't keeping quiet about it. He spoke his mind, and more importantly... he spoke the Lord's mind and God's will. (Was there ever any doubt? I mean, he is "the voice in the desert crying...") And, it came with a great cost. It cost him his life. But, as Brethren, we are asked by "Daddy Mack" to "count well the cost." Brethren know this very well... stories of pastors who crossed battle lines during the Civil War in order to unite the church, only to lose their lives during the journey. Committing our lives the Lord comes with a great cost, great responsibility, but also great rewards. Because "those who lose their life will find it." We know that in one sense, John the B did lose his life, but in another way, he found it... and He is surely with his only authority right now.

Seeing God... at ALL times

In Times of Trouble

6 So they sent word to Joseph, saying, "Your father left these instructions before he died: 17 'This is what you are to say to Joseph: I ask you to forgive your brothers the sins and the wrongs they committed in treating you so badly.' Now please forgive the sins of the servants of the God of your father." When their message came to him, Joseph wept.
18 His brothers then came and threw themselves down before him. "We are your slaves," they said.

19 But Joseph said to them, "Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God? 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. 21 So then, don't be afraid. I will provide for you and your children." And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them. -Genesis 49:16-41

I love the story of Joseph. I have to say Joseph and Joshua are two of my favorite characters in the whole Bible, besides Jesus and others of course. I admire Joseph so much, because at the toughest times, he looked to God and he saw how God worked through those difficult moments. Let's face it: the boy was thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, wrongly accused, sent to prison! If anyone had a right to scream, "It's just not fair!", it would be Joseph. But, Joseph at the end held no grudge. In fact, he explained to his brothers that it was all as God intended. How many of us are able to look back at our past relationships, our jobs that led nowhere, our struggles and say, "Hey, former boss, don't worry. It was all as God intended."

It's hard to see God when you're in the middle of a tough time, but that's why it's so important that we stay so close to Him. Prayer, scripture reading, journaling, any of the many spiritual disciplines. Right now I have to admit that I'm not handling all the stress of decisions about next year and wedding planning as well as I'd like to. I just wish that there were some easy and clear answer. Even worse, I feel like that sometimes affects my relationships, and I'm so sorry for the pain or difficulty or headaches I've caused Brad at the moment we're supposed to be so happy and excited about our engagement, but I thank God that he is so understanding and patient and willing to talk things through. And we have a God who asks us to "knock" and assures us that "all things work together for good." Besides, I have a wonderful love and friend to remind me to look to the Lord in times of trouble.


In Times of Doubt

When Jesus had finished these parables, he moved on from there. 54Coming to his hometown, he began teaching the people in their synagogue, and they were amazed. "Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers?" they asked. 55"Isn't this the carpenter's son? Isn't his mother's name Mary, and aren't his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? 56Aren't all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?" 57And they took offense at him.
But Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown and in his own house is a prophet without honor."
58And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith. -Matthew 13:53-58

I'm struck by this passage this morning, because the people doubted Jesus. You're probably saying, "Yes. That's quite apparent. How is that a revelation of any kind?" Well, we often begin to doubt ourselves when other people doubt us. When other people fail to see the potential that is in us or the preparations for ministry or the goodness of the Lord that we express, we doubt it too. But why? We can't hold stock in what other people don't believe, because Jesus hometown didn't even recognize Him as Lord. They didn't see his potential or believe enough for him to do miracles there with them.

While it is important to have spiritual advisors and mentors, we must also recognize that not everyone will be able to see what God has called us to. Some will doubt, but we can keep our eyes fixed upon the Lord and follow where He calls. This morning I pray Lord that You lead me next year. Where would you have me go? Bethany Seminary courses? Teaching? PhD? I'll follow Your lead, and I believe that You can work through me, when I invite You to.

Pressing On

I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. —Philippians 3:14

Pressing On: Following God's Call

Then Jacob left Beersheba, and Israel's sons took their father Jacob and their children and their wives in the carts that Pharaoh had sent to transport him. 6 They also took with them their livestock and the possessions they had acquired in Canaan, and Jacob and all his offspring went to Egypt. 7 He took with him to Egypt his sons and grandsons and his daughters and granddaughters—all his offspring. -Genesis 46:5-7

I guess I never really considered before how very much it took for anyone to move anywhere. It didn't just involve moving one nuclear family of 4 or 5. It was a whole caravan of like 70 people! Can you imagine?! When we were kids, it was enough to get the 4 of us out the door and in the car and ready for the trip at the same time. After the... "Wait, I have to go to the bathroom." "Do you have the keys?" "Where's Jerry's suitcase?" "I forgot something." "I'll be right back." "Do we have any snacks?" "How long until we get there?" Imagine that times 70! Moving was a huge commitment of time, effort and energy. You really had to believe that it would be better that you were going, that God was calling you there.

I'm a little nervous about next year, as I try to discern where God wants me, where He's sending me, what He would have me do. And talking to Em yesterday, I know I'd love to take some Bethany courses. But, how will I make ends meet? How will I pay $800 a semester? Where will I get my income? I guess there's a lot that Jacob didn't know either. Or do I continue with a PhD? Lord, be my guide. I want to press on toward You.


Pressing On: Bearing 'Fruit'

23But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown." -Matthew 13:23

And yet, in all circumstances, we try to be like the seed that fell on good soil. It doesn't say that this seed was just healthy and grew up in the church. There's much greater expectations for this seed. It spread to 60 or 30 times what was sown. Lord, use me to spread Your word, Your compassion and Your love in whatever way I can... today and every day.

Christians. Yeah... we're different.

After running a marathon yesterday, I am reminded by the old Brooks slogan, "Runners. Yeah... we're different." Let's face it. Not everyone has the urge to spend 4 hours running, causing their bodies to ache and becoming extremely weak in the process... 26.2 miles pushing yourself all the way.

Although Christians don't all run that sort of physical race, we are all running a race. We pursue God's purposes and seek Him in our daily lives, our interactions, our time with Him.


A Different Spirit

37 The plan seemed good to Pharaoh and to all his officials. 38 So Pharaoh asked them, "Can we find anyone like this man, one in whom is the spirit of God [b] ?"

39 Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, "Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. 40 You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you." -Genesis 41:37-39

Joseph is a great example of a Christian who was really different in terms of his spirit. It didn't take the Pharaoh long to figure out that Joseph was different and this difference came from the Spirit of God which was in him. Joseph himself admits that he cannot interpret dreams, but only God can. He also forgives his brothers and recognizes how God has worked through them in order to save many people from the famine. I don't know how to describe it, but I feel that so often I can see and feel that spirit. Lord, fill me with your spirit, so that I may be a testimony to you.


A Different Understanding

5At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. 26Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.
27"All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.

28"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." -Matthew 11:25-30

God also allows us, whether little children or not PhD seminary students, a different understanding of the Bible and heaven and Him. Through prayer and time in His presence, He reveals so much. Year after year, I read the Bible. Year after year, time with the Lord and reading His word bring me to new or heightened understanding about the Lord, about ourselves, about so much. Lord, I'm seeking right now to see where you would have me go next year. I pray that You would guide me and teach me and continue to give me Your understanding even if I am not in a seminary program.

Family Feuds

Joseph & His Brothers

3 Now Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons, because he had been born to him in his old age; and he made a richly ornamented [h] robe for him. 4 When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him.

5 Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. 6 He said to them, "Listen to this dream I had: 7 We were binding sheaves of grain out in the field when suddenly my sheaf rose and stood upright, while your sheaves gathered around mine and bowed down to it."
So Joseph went after his brothers and found them near Dothan. 18 But they saw him in the distance, and before he reached them, they plotted to kill him.

19 "Here comes that dreamer!" they said to each other. 20 "Come now, let's kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. Then we'll see what comes of his dreams." -Genesis 37:3-7, 19-20

It seems like so much of Genesis is wrapped up in sibling rivalry: Cain and Abel, Jacob and Esau, now Joseph and his brothers. But what do we do with it? In many ways it seems crazy. So many things in this story just ask/beg for sibling rivalry. Israel seems unashamed by his greater love for Joseph. He gives him this special coat. Then, Joseph proceeds to tell these dreams about sheaves of grain bowing down to him to his brothers! In a way, it seems like he asked for it.

But then I suppose if you don't tell your family, who do you tell? Joseph's a smart boy, so he must've known what his brothers would think of his dreams. There's something refreshing about the way he says it anyway.


Not Peace, But a Sword: Love Jesus Above Brothers

1"Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. 22All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. 23When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another. I tell you the truth, you will not finish going through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes.

"Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35 For I have come to turn
" 'a man against his father,
a daughter against her mother,
a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law -
36a man's enemies will be the members of his own household.'[c]

37"Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; 38and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.


This verse has always been so challenging to me, because I can relate to it so well. In my list of priorities, my family is right up there. They are so important to me... and not just my immediate family, but my cousins, uncles, aunts, great aunt as well. It's hard for me to understand how some families have cousins they see once every 10 years, when I see all mine at least twice a year it seems, more when I go back home. But this also helps me to really understand the challenge presented in this verse.

I remember when I first told my parents that I wanted to serve in BVS in another country for two years, they had their opinions. They were worried, concerned, nervous and eventually they came around to appreciating and understanding my decision. But at first that decision for me to leave was painful. Why do you want to leave? I was leaving the family to follow God.

And now I look at sometime in the future making a similar decision. Wherever God sends Brad and I into ministry, into whatever kind of ministry opens to us, we'll go. My own plans were to go back East and live close to my family, but I lose my own life, my own plans... to follow the Lord.

Freely Give

Jacob Gives Freely (And Insists)

8 Esau asked, "What do you mean by all these droves I met?"
"To find favor in your eyes, my lord," he said.

9 But Esau said, "I already have plenty, my brother. Keep what you have for yourself."

10 "No, please!" said Jacob. "If I have found favor in your eyes, accept this gift from me. For to see your face is like seeing the face of God, now that you have received me favorably. 11 Please accept the present that was brought to you, for God has been gracious to me and I have all I need." And because Jacob insisted, Esau accepted it. -Genesis 33:8-10

This morning this passage reminds me almost exactly of something Brad told me recently. He gave me a ring as a symbol of his love and affection for me a few days ago, and not just any ring- but a very beautiful ring. Unfortunately, I also know the value of this ring, and it's hard for me to accept such a gift... something so beautiful and so expensive. But he told me that it was a gift he wanted to give to me, that he has all he needs. It's beautiful the way that Jacob insists- showing that he really wants to give this gift, that it comes from his heart.

It reminds me of a Brazilian custom which sticks with me to this day. Brazilians know how to insist. You insist in offering food even to the point of placing the piece of cake on someone's plate after they've said no (politely) 4 times. Insisting shows your desire to give something.


Disciples Instructed to Give Freely

Freely you have received, freely give. 9Do not take along any gold or silver or copper in your belts; 10take no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep. -Matthew 10:8-10

On the other end of things, I'm reminded of the Dominican Republic, where you are expected to immediately accept and consume with great enjoyment anything that is offered to you. Hesitation is not looked at as polite, because the giver is blessed for giving. You are partly accepting the gift in respect and blessing to the one who gave it. Whether a fresh juice or freshly cut coconut, you are blessed by the gift, but it is also important that the giver is blessed.

When travelling, I have found no need to take anything extravagant along. In reading these verses, I laugh, because I did not take an extra coat or pillow case or towel or anything. Marcos and Sueli were more than kind enough to give me (freely) what I lacked. My other friends also gave me clothes when they noticed that I wore the same thing week after week. And they did this with great joy... knowing that in some small way it showed their appreciation for the worker, and her work.


Freely Give of the Greatest Treasures (God's Power)

We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. —2 Corinthians 4:7

But the greatest thing that we can give is not mere material goods, but it is the power that God grants us, working though us. This is what we need to freely give... the power of God that is in us, which makes all the difference. Lord help me to be a vessel of your treasure today... passing that power on to everyone.

Blessings & Service Through God's Power Alone

Blessed By God's Power

22 That night Jacob got up and took his two wives, his two maidservants and his eleven sons and crossed the ford of the Jabbok. 23 After he had sent them across the stream, he sent over all his possessions. 24 So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak. 25 When the man saw that he could not overpower him, he touched the socket of Jacob's hip so that his hip was wrenched as he wrestled with the man. 26 Then the man said, "Let me go, for it is daybreak."
But Jacob replied, "I will not let you go unless you bless me."
27 The man asked him, "What is your name?"
"Jacob," he answered.

28 Then the man said, "Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, [j] because you have struggled with God and with men and have overcome."

29 Jacob said, "Please tell me your name."
But he replied, "Why do you ask my name?" Then he blessed him there.

30 So Jacob called the place Peniel, [k] saying, "It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared."

31 The sun rose above him as he passed Peniel, [l] and he was limping because of his hip. 32 Therefore to this day the Israelites do not eat the tendon attached to the socket of the hip, because the socket of Jacob's hip was touched near the tendon. -Genesis 32: 22-32

This scripture has always been quite curious to me. I don't think every quite understood how Jacob, in being alone, came to wrestle with this man who turned out to be God. Why would God be wrestling with him in the first place? Did it have something to do with the gods that Rachel had hidden under her saddle? It feels like a few pages went missing here.

But the part that struck me this morning as I read it over several times is verses 26-29. First of all, Jacob must have an idea that this is no ordinary man, because he asks for a blessing. I don't know if it was customary to ask your adversary for a blessing in that time, but it wouldn't seem that way to me. Also, when Jacob asks for His name, God answers, "Why do you ask my name?" It seems apparent that Jacob knows it is God and that God knows it is Jacob. It is exactly this kind of situation that is so hard to explain. Why did I go to Brazil, for instance? I just... felt led there, or called there, or I knew it was right. When you just "know", it's hard to explain how or why... the answer is sometimes so much more than words can say, when the answer is God. That's why He is... The Great I Am.


Serving By God's Power

35Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. -Matthew 9:35-38

Many know that this is a verse that stands out to me every single time I read it and a verse that I thought of quite a lot this morning on my run. It seems to be a Catch 22. We can only be sent out to work in God's field by the Lord of the harvest. But, don't we have faith that if we put our lives in His hands, He will prepare us for the work He gives to us. What the Lord wants is obedient, willing, humble servants, and I believe that He will guide us and send us to His fields... but in order to allow His power to work through us, we must wholly give ourselves to Him.

Bueno es Alabarte Senor!

Praise God for Spouses

19 Laban said, "It's better that I give her to you than to some other man. Stay here with me." 20 So Jacob served seven years to get Rachel, but they seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her. -Genesis 29:19-20

I love reading this about Jacob... seven years of hard works "seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her." It's like the most beautiful love note... hidden in Gensis! Now engaged to a wonderful man, I pray that it might be the same for us. I know that this past year has gone so fast... and he has made my life so much better. And I pray that it might be the same for him, and for both of us for many many years as we seek to serve God together. I praise God for the man who is so kind and loving, which only inspires more love for him. I only in my wildest dreams thought I'd ever find someone like Brad, and he is certainly more than I even hoped for.


Praise God for Children

35 She conceived again, and when she gave birth to a son she said, "This time I will praise the LORD." So she named him Judah. [e] Then she stopped having children. -Genesis 29:35

While I find this part of the story exceedingly strange (where Leah and Rachel are having a sort of 'child-bearing competition'), I need to remember that it's a different culture and a different time. Some things I probably won't be able to understand very well. But at least I can be thankful that I won't have a Rachel or a Leah to compete with. I trust that the kind of love meant for Brad and my relatinship will not be divided with anyone else.

But what I noticed this morning as I read was how each of the women gave praise to the Lord each time they bore a child. Whenever any such blessing happens to our lives, we should lift our hands and face to God, smile and say, "Praise be to God!" It strikes me as odd how people say "congratulations" to me on my engagement, as if it is something which I have won or earned or done of my own accord. Instead, I am certain that it is something God has done. God has brought the two of us together, and so I give all the praise and the "congratulations" to Him!


Praise God for Miracles

4Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, "Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts? 5Which is easier: to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up and walk'? 6But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins...." Then he said to the paralytic, "Get up, take your mat and go home." 7And the man got up and went home. 8When the crowd saw this, they were filled with awe; and they praised God, who had given such authority to men. -Matthew 9:4-8

This account of a miracle strikes me as unique this morning in a very similar manner. While people are amazed at other instances where Jesus performs miracles, here I am interested to read that not only is the crowd filled with 'awe', but they 'praised God, who had given such authority to men.' This is what I pray for my whole life... that it may be a living testimony to the Lord my God... so that people may see everything that I may do in my teaching, in my studies, in my interactions, in my Bible Studies, in my church, in my service, in my love... and 'praise God, who has given such authority to people'. May everything be a reason given to all... to praise the Lord our God.

What Kind of Man is This?

What Kind of Man is Jacob?

34 When Esau heard his father's words, he burst out with a loud and bitter cry and said to his father, "Bless me—me too, my father!"

35 But he said, "Your brother came deceitfully and took your blessing."

36 Esau said, "Isn't he rightly named Jacob [a] ? He has deceived me these two times: He took my birthright, and now he's taken my blessing!" Then he asked, "Haven't you reserved any blessing for me?" - Genesis 27:34-36

This is a story that I've never quite understood. Jacob, who deceived his brother Esau wsa blessed, even to the extent that God appeared to him in a dream and confirmed that blessing. But... it's not fair, our hearts seem to cry out. He didn't deserve it. In fact, didn't he deserve it less for his deceptive role in the story? As Esau rightly acknowledges, Jacob didn't deceive him once, but twice. And he deceived his father.

Of course, now with the coming of Jesus and the new covenant, there are enough blessings to go around for all of God's children: the first through the 17th born in the family (ad infinitum). And if we want to make the comparison, it's quite an interesting picture. Perhaps we could see ourselves as Jacob. Issac as our Lord, our Father. How many times have we attempted to 'deceive' our Father- making mistakes, sinning and doing what we shouldn't have. But, we still may have His blessing fall upon us... not because we are deserving... but because He is merciful. When we get angry at Jacob, perhaps it is best to realize that there is a bit of Jacob in all of us.


What Kind of Man is Esau?

41 Esau held a grudge against Jacob because of the blessing his father had given him. He said to himself, "The days of mourning for my father are near; then I will kill my brother Jacob." -Genesis 27:41

And Esau... we tend to want to defend Esau. Poor guy. He got duped not once by twice! And this time Rebekah had a hand in things. However, upon closer inspection it appears that not even Esau was quite innocent in the story. Perhaps the only innocent one was Isaac who didn't know which son was with him.

Here, we can see Esau's heart. In failing to forgive Jacob and accept the blessing that has been given to him, Esau vows to kill his brother. We know what God thinks of that from the previous chapter on Cain and Abel. Again, it seems that Esau needs to the learn the lesson that he doesn't "deserve" anything... a birthright or a blessing... but they are gifts.


What Kind of Man is Jesus?

27The men were amazed and asked, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!" -Matthew 8:27

34Then the whole town went out to meet Jesus. And when they saw him, they pleaded with him to leave their region. -Matthew 8:34

When people are coming to see the character of Jesus, they are amazed at his power... in today's reading this happens when He calms the sea and when he drives the demons from the demon-possessed man into a herd of pigs. But, people were amazed (and rightly so) but God's power... a power and authority that they didn't understand... and so they asked "What kind of man is this?" This is still a good question for us to ask today about ourselves... as we reflect on who we want to be this year. And we can ask this question about Jesus... as we reflect of how the greatness of our Lord and the intercession of the Holy Spirit may lead us to follow Him.

Fear of the Unknown

Obey the Unknown

By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called . . . . And he went out, not knowing where he was going. —Hebrews 11:8

Just last night Brad and I were talking about 'the unknown' in a manner of speaking. One very exciting part about this moment together is that there are things that are known- our love for each other... but there are also unknowns that we'll learn about each other, that we'll experience as the Lord leads us. And I pray that we obey... leaving fear behind... because perfect love drives out all fear.


Follow the Unknown

50 Laban and Bethuel answered, "This is from the LORD; we can say nothing to you one way or the other. 51 Here is Rebekah; take her and go, and let her become the wife of your master's son, as the LORD has directed."

52 When Abraham's servant heard what they said, he bowed down to the ground before the LORD. 53 Then the servant brought out gold and silver jewelry and articles of clothing and gave them to Rebekah; he also gave costly gifts to her brother and to her mother. -Genesis 24:50-53

Laban and Bethuel, Rebekah's relatives were so very obedient in following the Lord. This passage particularly makes me think of things that are "of the Lord." So many people have told me that they see Brad and myself and know that it is "of the Lord," though they each use their own turn of phrase. Some call it a "very special relationship," others comment that "God brought us together," or "the Lord led us to one another." In my humble opinion, this is very true.

But, it's also true that in many ways you can see something that's "of the Lord." Even a person that's on fire for God... you can tell by their joy and love and their lives that they are "of the Lord." Lord, I pray that you make it true that this relationship, that my life, that everything about me is "of the Lord." Guide me this year... as I seek to follow your leading.


Ask the Unknown

7"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
9"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! 12So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. -Matthew 7:7-12

This year I am seeking. Seminary? Job? PhD? I'm looking into all three options, but most of all I ask you, Lord. Sometimes it seems like there are so many changes happening. There is so much that is so unknown. But everyone who asks will receive, and everyone who seeks will find. So, Lord, I stand hear asking for your guidance, seeking your wisdom, and knocking on the doors that you would have me enter into this next year. As the song goes, "Take my hand and lead me, Father."

Worry v. Intentionality

15 When the water in the skin was gone, she put the boy under one of the bushes. 16 Then she went off and sat down nearby, about a bowshot away, for she thought, "I cannot watch the boy die." And as she sat there nearby, she [d] began to sob.
17 God heard the boy crying, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, "What is the matter, Hagar? Do not be afraid; God has heard the boy crying as he lies there. 18 Lift the boy up and take him by the hand, for I will make him into a great nation."
19 Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water. So she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink.
20 God was with the boy as he grew up. He lived in the desert and became an archer. 21 While he was living in the Desert of Paran, his mother got a wife for him from Egypt.
-Genesis 21:15-21

Again, Hagar is off by herself. Poor Hagar... she's someone I certainly don't envy. She's banished by Sarah to the desert along with Ishmael, because Ishmael was making fun of something, as kids often do. (Seems quite childish of Sarah if you ask me.) But, again God proved Himself to be "the God who sees her." He saw her and provided water for them, and was with the boy as he grew up. We cry and worry, and sometimes we forget that God has always been here for us... that we have no reason to worry. It is all in God's hands. Yes, sometimes things hurt and cause us to cry. Yes, sometimes things are difficult and cause us stress... but as Christians, we have the overriding assurance that

God is good
All the time.
All the time
God is good.


25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[a]?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.-Matthew 6:25-34

This beautiful verse on worry is a part of the Bible that I need to read more often than I do. In fact, I think I might need to pint it out and just read it each morning. I think my difficulty in dealing with worry and anxiety may hail from my overconsciousness and slight perfectionism (with certain things). I want to do everything as best as I can, especially when it involves others, which it usually does. And I want to live my life as well as I can- with intentionality in the way I live each day, in the money I allocate to certain things, the time I devout to certain goals, everything. And that makes me somewhat overly-critical and worried about how I'm doing... measuring up only to my own self-determined criteria, but that is often the harshest.

I believe there's a fine line between living intentionally- trying to make an effort to live lightly on the earth (eat locally, recycle, reuse), serving others and God- and not worrying too much about it. We make an effort and give ourselves to the Lord, knowing that He will use us if we give our hearts to Him. And it will never be enough to earn our way into Heaven... that is a gift from our Lord... along with the assurance that can ease our minds and our hearts... if we only let Him free us from worry.

God Loveth Adverbs: It's Not What You Do, It's How You Do It

12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. -Colassians 3:12-17

Reflection from ODB

The Puritans wisely sought to connect all of life to its source in God, bringing the two worlds together rather than dividing them into sacred and secular. They had a saying, “God loveth adverbs; and careth not how good, but how well.” Adverbs describe verbs—our words of action and activity. The proverb implies that God cares more about the spirit in which we live than the concrete results.

This reflection rings true for me for several reasons. First of all, I love the fact that it mentions adverbs. (I recently did an entire project on that.) However, I'm also excited about the fact that it emphasizes that 'it's not what you do- it's how you do it.' One of my strong points is discipline... so I'm very going about doing things faithfully. But sometimes I lose the heart of what I'm doing for the 'doing' of it. I can't see the forst for the trees... or in this case, I can't see the adverbs for the verbs. This morning this is a beautiful reminder to do with all my heart... to live and love and serve God with adverbs.

It's How You Believe

Now Sarah was listening at the entrance to the tent, which was behind him. 11 Abraham and Sarah were already old and well advanced in years, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, "After I am worn out and my master [d] is old, will I now have this pleasure?"

13 Then the LORD said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh and say, 'Will I really have a child, now that I am old?' 14 Is anything too hard for the LORD ? I will return to you at the appointed time next year and Sarah will have a son."

15 Sarah was afraid, so she lied and said, "I did not laugh."
But he said, "Yes, you did laugh."- Genesis 18:10-15

God knows our heart. God knows when we doubt, just like Sarah. And why? Why did she laugh? Why did she doubt? I have to admit I've had my moments too. There are moments when I felt that I would never meet someone, and perhaps that would be the best for everyone. But, God must've been shaking His head and saying, "Why do you laugh, Katie? Is anything too hard for the Lord?" Nothing is impossible for Him, and I need to believe even when it's hard... that He will help me to be all that He needs me to be.

It's How You Obey

16 When he hesitated, the men grasped his hand and the hands of his wife and of his two daughters and led them safely out of the city, for the LORD was merciful to them. 17 As soon as they had brought them out, one of them said, "Flee for your lives! Don't look back, and don't stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!"

23 By the time Lot reached Zoar, the sun had risen over the land. 24 Then the LORD rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the LORD out of the heavens. 25 Thus he overthrew those cities and the entire plain, including all those living in the cities—and also the vegetation in the land. 26 But Lot's wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt. -Genesis 19:16-17, 23-26

This is a rather scary passage... the fact that even just looking back caused Lot's wife to turn into a pillar of salt. I think sometimes people use this verse as an excuse. They avoid going into ministry or various positions, because they think...well, if I turn back I'll be disobedient. The fact is that not following at all is even more disobedient. Lot's wife would've surely perished in the fire of the cities if she had never left, never followed at all. But following God requires an honest seeking of His will for our lives.

It's How You Give, Pray, Fast

1"Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
2"So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. -Matthew 6:1-2

5"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. -Matthew 6:5

16"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting.- Matthew 5:16

Matthew is all about the heart of the matter, as we read yesterday. It's no longer just about the rules... but it's about understanding the deeper meaning and purpose behind those rules. All of these acts: giving, praying and fasting are meant for God. We should not do them in a way that displays them before other people in vanity, show and boasting. Instead, if we keep them hidden between our heart and the Lord's, our manner (adverb) matching with our action (verb).