Given to God
Exodus 25:1-26:37
"The Lord said to Moses, 'Tell the Israelites to bring me gifts. Receive for me the gifts each person wants to give.'" (Exodus 25:1)
Not much of a gift-giver myself, at one point it was hard for me to receive things. But when in Brazil, I quickly learned that giving and receiving gifts was an important part of connecting with people. And gifts (physical or spiritual) are an important part of the way that we connect with God. The gift of time (in a quiet time of devotion, prayer, worship), the gift of song (in a hymn or praise music), the gift of service (to neighbors and those in need), the gift of offerings (tithes and donations), and the spiritual gifts that God has given us to use.
While home over break, my church called me to consider ministry... and since then (although really many times over before then), I've been seriously praying about how God is calling me and where God would use the gifts He has given me. These gifts that God has given me are to be used in His service, and Lord I pray that You guide me to where that may be. In the "Take My Life" Conference, as I prayed, I felt affirmed that God is calling me to ministry in some form... although I'm not sure how or where or when. Lord, I want to give You my life... every day and wherever You lead me, I will go.
Given to Us
Psalm 20:1-5
"May the Lord answer you in times of trouble. May the God of Jacob protect you. May he send you help from his Temple and support you from Mount Zion. May he remember all your offerings and accept all your sacrifices. May he give you what you want and make all your plans succeed and we will shout for joy when you succeed, and we will raise a flag in the name of our God. May the Lord give you all that you ask for." (Psalm 20:1-5)
My God has already been so faithful to me, blessing me with so much more than I could ever hope for- a loving family, wonderful opportunities to serve You, friends that I have met from so many places. So many beautiful days and people and settings and treasures. I thank You, Lord for so many uncountable gifts. I praise You for the wonderful gifts You continue to shower me with each day. Thank You, Lord... I cannot thank You enough. Oh, Lord... I know that I am encouraged to pray without ceasing and allowed to pray for all things. So, while I pray for many things, I also pray that You may grant me what I want, what I ask for. And Lord, You know the desires of my heart.
Given in Service
Matthew 24:36-51
"Who is the wise and loyal servant that the master trusts to give the other servants their food at the right time? When the master comes and finds the servant doing his work, the servant will be blessed. I tell you the truth, the master will choose that servant to take care of everything he owns." (Matthew 24:45-46)
Perhaps this verse seems quite crazy to someone who has never lived a life of service... working for others in some volunteer position or another. Yet, to others, it will make perfect sense. Just like the verse that tells us that we must lose our life in order to gain it. I have been blessed beyond belief by each of the times I have been living in "service" to others. I am convinced that others were really the ones serving me- teaching me more about how to live, how to love, how to share and what is really important. God, I want to learn more every day how to be like this wise and loyal servant.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Friday, February 6, 2009
And the Glory, the Glory of the Lord
Seeing God's Glory
Exodus 23:1-24:18
"When Moses went up on the mountain, the cloud covered it. The glory of the Lord came down on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it for six days. On the seventh day the Lord called to Moses from inside the cloud. To the Israelites the glory of the Lord looked like a fire burning on top of the mountain. Then Moses went into the cloud and went higher up the mountain. He was on the mountain for forty days and forty nights." (Exodus 24:15-18)
Moses went up to the mountain to receive the stone tablets with the ten commandments written upon them, and Moses met with God. I cannot imagine the power of that experience... standing before the Lord in all His glory- praise, honor, distinction, great beauty and splendor. It must have been so awesome to even be the Israelites as they looked at the burning "fire" and "cloud." It's hard to imagine what it must've been like. Lord, I await that day that You call to me... that I may see Your glory. May I always remember that I do not live for this life alone, but thank You for the precious gift of salvation which welcomes me into Your kingdom where I will see Your glory.
Declaring God's Glory
Psalm 19:1-6
"The heavens declare the glory of God, and the skies announce what his hands have made. Day after day they tell the story; night after night they tell it again. They have no speech or words, they have no voice to be heard. But their message goes out through all the world; their words go everywhere on earth." (Psalm 19:1-4)
While I can't see the Lord's glory in the powerful image of a "fire" or a "cloud," I certainly can see God's glory around me. Here in Tucson, the mountains seem to sing praises to God's honor who created the heaven and the earth. And I see it in the sun and the amazing moon... that always seems so breathtaking here. But also in dear friends, who share Your love with me in a prayer, a conversation, a cup of coffee and kindness. Lord, the whole world that You so lovingly created shares Your glory... and I as a part of that pray that You help me take that message throughout all the world... everywhere on earth. Lord, I certainly pray for You guidance and direction for my life. Sometimes I feel that You are leading me into missions again... and I pray that You lead me wherever You would have me go, whatever You would have me do... all in Your glorious name, my God.
Praising God's Glory
Matthew 23:23-39
"Many times I wanted to gather your people as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you did not let me. Now your house will be left completely empty. I tell you, you will not see me again until that time when you will say, 'God bless the One who comes in the name of the Lord.'" (Matthew 23:37-39)
I feel that I so needed this verse this morning. Oh Jesus, how I want to feel You gathering me in, under Your wings... I need Your protection and love and grace this morning. After receiving my student evaluation reports which were not really bad but less than I expected, I feel quite disheartened. And yet, I know that I can only turn to You and pray that You guide me and help me to really reach my students, help them, teach them. Alone I am never enough, but Your goodness, oh God, can help me to do all things. Always a bit better, always a bit improved... with Your power and strength and wisdom. I praise You for this amazing love that You offer to me and the most glorious gift of Your Son, whom You sent in Your name.
Exodus 23:1-24:18
"When Moses went up on the mountain, the cloud covered it. The glory of the Lord came down on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it for six days. On the seventh day the Lord called to Moses from inside the cloud. To the Israelites the glory of the Lord looked like a fire burning on top of the mountain. Then Moses went into the cloud and went higher up the mountain. He was on the mountain for forty days and forty nights." (Exodus 24:15-18)
Moses went up to the mountain to receive the stone tablets with the ten commandments written upon them, and Moses met with God. I cannot imagine the power of that experience... standing before the Lord in all His glory- praise, honor, distinction, great beauty and splendor. It must have been so awesome to even be the Israelites as they looked at the burning "fire" and "cloud." It's hard to imagine what it must've been like. Lord, I await that day that You call to me... that I may see Your glory. May I always remember that I do not live for this life alone, but thank You for the precious gift of salvation which welcomes me into Your kingdom where I will see Your glory.
Declaring God's Glory
Psalm 19:1-6
"The heavens declare the glory of God, and the skies announce what his hands have made. Day after day they tell the story; night after night they tell it again. They have no speech or words, they have no voice to be heard. But their message goes out through all the world; their words go everywhere on earth." (Psalm 19:1-4)
While I can't see the Lord's glory in the powerful image of a "fire" or a "cloud," I certainly can see God's glory around me. Here in Tucson, the mountains seem to sing praises to God's honor who created the heaven and the earth. And I see it in the sun and the amazing moon... that always seems so breathtaking here. But also in dear friends, who share Your love with me in a prayer, a conversation, a cup of coffee and kindness. Lord, the whole world that You so lovingly created shares Your glory... and I as a part of that pray that You help me take that message throughout all the world... everywhere on earth. Lord, I certainly pray for You guidance and direction for my life. Sometimes I feel that You are leading me into missions again... and I pray that You lead me wherever You would have me go, whatever You would have me do... all in Your glorious name, my God.
Praising God's Glory
Matthew 23:23-39
"Many times I wanted to gather your people as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you did not let me. Now your house will be left completely empty. I tell you, you will not see me again until that time when you will say, 'God bless the One who comes in the name of the Lord.'" (Matthew 23:37-39)
I feel that I so needed this verse this morning. Oh Jesus, how I want to feel You gathering me in, under Your wings... I need Your protection and love and grace this morning. After receiving my student evaluation reports which were not really bad but less than I expected, I feel quite disheartened. And yet, I know that I can only turn to You and pray that You guide me and help me to really reach my students, help them, teach them. Alone I am never enough, but Your goodness, oh God, can help me to do all things. Always a bit better, always a bit improved... with Your power and strength and wisdom. I praise You for this amazing love that You offer to me and the most glorious gift of Your Son, whom You sent in Your name.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
The Power of One
One Law
Exodus 21:1-22:31
"Then God said to Moses, 'These are the laws for living that you will give to the Israelites..." (Exodus 21:1)
After being given the ten commandments, God set up 'laws for living' so that the Israelites would know the expectations and the consequences. A practicality that exists in all sorts of societies and social groups today (from nations to family units). Imagine if everyone in your city set up their own laws. It would be utter chaos. We are so socialized into our 'laws' and 'morals' and 'social constructs' that sometimes we can't see another way. Yet, ask someone from another country and they will explain the many laws that could just be handled differently (driving on the opposite side of the road for instance). There would be nothing wrong with that law, as long as everyone were abiding by it. But imagine a 'To Each His Own Town' where people could decide where to drive and when and how. God's people were living together, and God gave them a just set of laws to unify their living. God, I love the laws that You have given to me in this beautiful book which guides my living... may I learn to always live according to this one law.
One Salvation
Psalm 18:46-50
"The Lord lives! May my Rock be praised. Praise the God who saves me!" (Psalm 18:46)
Our God, who sent His Son to earth, is our one salvation. It is evident to me that many people in society are searching for something... and they don't know what they are searching for. I need to tell them of the salvation that I have found in the one Lord... the living Lord who was and is and is to come. In this one verse, so many awesome aspects of our God- living (real, alive, present), protecting (caring, strong, mighty), saving (powerful, gracious, merciful). Oh Lord, my Rock who saves me... how I pray that You save all of those who are hurting. This morning I pray especially for my dear friend Kara. I know that you know her and love her, Lord. I pray that You surround her with your living, protecting and saving presence... comforting her heart, mind, body and soul... and heal her please, oh Lord. We believe in the power of the source of our salvation.
One Master
Matthew 23:1-22
"But you must not be called 'Teacher,' because you have only one Teacher, and you are all brothers and sisters together. And don't call any person on earth 'Father,' because you have one Father, who is in heaven. And you should not be called 'Master,' because you have only one Master, the Christ. Whoever is your servant is the greatest among you. Whoever makes himself great will be made humble. Whoever makes himself humble will be made great." (Matthew 23:8-12)
This reminds me of yet another Brethren-ism. My dad would always recount how his father (a Brethren pastor) would try to discourage people from calling him "Reverend." (Brethren don't use this term, so it was probably people from other backgrounds or who had used it elsewhere.) The reasoning is simple enough... reverend comes from "revered." Revered: showing honor to or worthy of honor. If only one is worthy of a title such as 'Teacher,' 'Master,' or 'Father,' a title such as 'Reverend' should also be saved for our one Master. In fact, as a child I would refer my pastors with their first name only... very common in my church. I'd be talking about Ken to my friends at school, and when they asked "Who's that?" and I responded with "my pastor," they would be shocked. But that's how I experienced it growing up: we are all brothers and sisters together... all pastors in some way shape or form... and all humbly serving our one true Lord.
Exodus 21:1-22:31
"Then God said to Moses, 'These are the laws for living that you will give to the Israelites..." (Exodus 21:1)
After being given the ten commandments, God set up 'laws for living' so that the Israelites would know the expectations and the consequences. A practicality that exists in all sorts of societies and social groups today (from nations to family units). Imagine if everyone in your city set up their own laws. It would be utter chaos. We are so socialized into our 'laws' and 'morals' and 'social constructs' that sometimes we can't see another way. Yet, ask someone from another country and they will explain the many laws that could just be handled differently (driving on the opposite side of the road for instance). There would be nothing wrong with that law, as long as everyone were abiding by it. But imagine a 'To Each His Own Town' where people could decide where to drive and when and how. God's people were living together, and God gave them a just set of laws to unify their living. God, I love the laws that You have given to me in this beautiful book which guides my living... may I learn to always live according to this one law.
One Salvation
Psalm 18:46-50
"The Lord lives! May my Rock be praised. Praise the God who saves me!" (Psalm 18:46)
Our God, who sent His Son to earth, is our one salvation. It is evident to me that many people in society are searching for something... and they don't know what they are searching for. I need to tell them of the salvation that I have found in the one Lord... the living Lord who was and is and is to come. In this one verse, so many awesome aspects of our God- living (real, alive, present), protecting (caring, strong, mighty), saving (powerful, gracious, merciful). Oh Lord, my Rock who saves me... how I pray that You save all of those who are hurting. This morning I pray especially for my dear friend Kara. I know that you know her and love her, Lord. I pray that You surround her with your living, protecting and saving presence... comforting her heart, mind, body and soul... and heal her please, oh Lord. We believe in the power of the source of our salvation.
One Master
Matthew 23:1-22
"But you must not be called 'Teacher,' because you have only one Teacher, and you are all brothers and sisters together. And don't call any person on earth 'Father,' because you have one Father, who is in heaven. And you should not be called 'Master,' because you have only one Master, the Christ. Whoever is your servant is the greatest among you. Whoever makes himself great will be made humble. Whoever makes himself humble will be made great." (Matthew 23:8-12)
This reminds me of yet another Brethren-ism. My dad would always recount how his father (a Brethren pastor) would try to discourage people from calling him "Reverend." (Brethren don't use this term, so it was probably people from other backgrounds or who had used it elsewhere.) The reasoning is simple enough... reverend comes from "revered." Revered: showing honor to or worthy of honor. If only one is worthy of a title such as 'Teacher,' 'Master,' or 'Father,' a title such as 'Reverend' should also be saved for our one Master. In fact, as a child I would refer my pastors with their first name only... very common in my church. I'd be talking about Ken to my friends at school, and when they asked "Who's that?" and I responded with "my pastor," they would be shocked. But that's how I experienced it growing up: we are all brothers and sisters together... all pastors in some way shape or form... and all humbly serving our one true Lord.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Keep God's Commands
On The 7th Day
Exodus 19:1-20:26
"Remember to keep the Sabbath holy. Work and get everything done during six days each week, but the seventh day is a day of rest to honor the Lord your God." (Exodus 20:8)
This year I am really trying to keep the Sabbath holy. Out of the ten commandments, it is the one that we most easily disregard. And granted, Jesus did work on the Sabbath- performing miracles and taught those Pharisees not to be so legalistic. But, I see such a great blessing in observing this day... honoring the Lord, praying with friends, appreciating all of God's great gifts. Lord, one day is not enough to worship You, but I can at least offer that... one day each week to honor You and at the same time be blessed myself for the refreshing rest that you offer us.
It's also interesting to note that there is no record of anything on the last Sabbath of Jesus' life. While we can only speculate, it seems quite possible that at the time when so much was on the verge of happening, Jesus took a day to rest and worship.
In Mind
Proverbs 6:20-25
"My son, keep your father's commands, and don't forget your mother's teaching. Keep their words in mind forever as though you had them tied around your neck. They will guide you when you walk. They will guard you when you sleep. They will speak to you when you are awake. These commands are like a lamp; this teaching is like a light." (Proverbs 6:20-23)
This seems to allude to another commandment- honor thy mother and thy father. Honor them through keeping their commands and teachings. When I was young, I remember that my mother and father knew everything. More amazing that superheros, faster than a speeding bullet. Somehow in my adolescence, I saw that maybe my parents weren't quite the perfect superhumans I thought they were. And then, sometime during college and shortly thereafter, I came to the conclusion that somehow my parents were almost always right... they had this amazing source of knowledge and wisdom and advice that perhaps you only acquire after become parents. So, I now turn to them for advice and prayer and wisdom... just as I had in my younger years.
My parents, being human, have taught me and guided me so well. And if this is true of my parents, I know that I must turn to my heavenly Father to seek His commands and teachings... which I pray may guide my life.. walking, awake, asleep... in my mind forever.
In Order of Importance
Matthew 22:23-46
"'Teacher, which command in the law is the most important?' Jesus answered, ''Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and most important command. And the second is like the first: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the law and the writings of the prophets depend on these two commands.'" (Matthew 22:34-40)
Again, this verse can sometimes be too familiar to us to take it seriously... for the challenge that it really presents. Our love for the Lord must be greater than everything. It must be complete... heart, soul and mind. It reminds me of Luke 14:26, "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters- and yes, even his own life- he cannot be my disciple." Not that we should be hating these people, but that our love for the Lord must be that great. Our love for the Lord must "trump" everything.
And the second most important- that we must love our neighbor. Again, so easy to say but so hard to do... to watch out for the good of another, pay attention to needs and wants and desires and concerns and joys... to truly love someone is not easy, but it is such a blessing... a blessing for the one who is doing the loving. Last night we talked about feet washing... a passage I've read several times a year every year, and every time I read it, it is more meaningful me. Perhaps one of the most meaningful experiences with feet washing was last year at my friend Carol's wedding when she and Jason washed each other's feet as a part of the service. So meaningful and beautiful, and I am sure that they continue to daily 'wash each other's feet' ... living out this second greatest commandment.
Lord, may I live and love this way... following all these commands that You have given to me... because they are so good. You are so good, my God.
Exodus 19:1-20:26
"Remember to keep the Sabbath holy. Work and get everything done during six days each week, but the seventh day is a day of rest to honor the Lord your God." (Exodus 20:8)
This year I am really trying to keep the Sabbath holy. Out of the ten commandments, it is the one that we most easily disregard. And granted, Jesus did work on the Sabbath- performing miracles and taught those Pharisees not to be so legalistic. But, I see such a great blessing in observing this day... honoring the Lord, praying with friends, appreciating all of God's great gifts. Lord, one day is not enough to worship You, but I can at least offer that... one day each week to honor You and at the same time be blessed myself for the refreshing rest that you offer us.
It's also interesting to note that there is no record of anything on the last Sabbath of Jesus' life. While we can only speculate, it seems quite possible that at the time when so much was on the verge of happening, Jesus took a day to rest and worship.
In Mind
Proverbs 6:20-25
"My son, keep your father's commands, and don't forget your mother's teaching. Keep their words in mind forever as though you had them tied around your neck. They will guide you when you walk. They will guard you when you sleep. They will speak to you when you are awake. These commands are like a lamp; this teaching is like a light." (Proverbs 6:20-23)
This seems to allude to another commandment- honor thy mother and thy father. Honor them through keeping their commands and teachings. When I was young, I remember that my mother and father knew everything. More amazing that superheros, faster than a speeding bullet. Somehow in my adolescence, I saw that maybe my parents weren't quite the perfect superhumans I thought they were. And then, sometime during college and shortly thereafter, I came to the conclusion that somehow my parents were almost always right... they had this amazing source of knowledge and wisdom and advice that perhaps you only acquire after become parents. So, I now turn to them for advice and prayer and wisdom... just as I had in my younger years.
My parents, being human, have taught me and guided me so well. And if this is true of my parents, I know that I must turn to my heavenly Father to seek His commands and teachings... which I pray may guide my life.. walking, awake, asleep... in my mind forever.
In Order of Importance
Matthew 22:23-46
"'Teacher, which command in the law is the most important?' Jesus answered, ''Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and most important command. And the second is like the first: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the law and the writings of the prophets depend on these two commands.'" (Matthew 22:34-40)
Again, this verse can sometimes be too familiar to us to take it seriously... for the challenge that it really presents. Our love for the Lord must be greater than everything. It must be complete... heart, soul and mind. It reminds me of Luke 14:26, "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters- and yes, even his own life- he cannot be my disciple." Not that we should be hating these people, but that our love for the Lord must be that great. Our love for the Lord must "trump" everything.
And the second most important- that we must love our neighbor. Again, so easy to say but so hard to do... to watch out for the good of another, pay attention to needs and wants and desires and concerns and joys... to truly love someone is not easy, but it is such a blessing... a blessing for the one who is doing the loving. Last night we talked about feet washing... a passage I've read several times a year every year, and every time I read it, it is more meaningful me. Perhaps one of the most meaningful experiences with feet washing was last year at my friend Carol's wedding when she and Jason washed each other's feet as a part of the service. So meaningful and beautiful, and I am sure that they continue to daily 'wash each other's feet' ... living out this second greatest commandment.
Lord, may I live and love this way... following all these commands that You have given to me... because they are so good. You are so good, my God.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
A Better Way
To Help
Exodus 17:1-18:27
"Moses' father-in-law said to him, 'You are not doing this right. You and the people who come to you will get too tired. This is too much work for you; you can't do it by yourself. Now listen to me, and I will give you some advice. I want God to be with you." (Exodus 18:17-19)
To me, this story shows me the importance of listening to God's direction which can come from friends, spiritual leaders, brothers and sisters in Christ. It is important to get the input of other people... to listen to what they have to say, to advice they have to give. Sometimes, they see a better solution or a better way for you to take your spiritual gifts to the Lord. And it is important to note that Jethro's advice is motivated by what he feels God is saying... "I want God to be with you." When I chose to go into BVS, my service site was not an easy decision for me, but after communication with the directors of the church in Brazil, leaders of the program, parents, and close friends, I knew that was where God would "be with me." Lord, I ask that you guide me now... give me the wisdom to listen to my brothers and sisters for the direction that You would have me take in my life... which is Yours. I give it all to You.
To Live
Psalm 18:30-42
"You give me a better way to live, so I live as you want me to." (Psalm 18:36)
A better way to live. Living as the Lord would have me live- what a challenge, a challenge that I admit I fall short of. Yet God is gracious and good and understanding and patient and loving. He loves my efforts to follow faithfully in His footsteps. We tend to see all things as a dichotomy... one color or another, when really it is a spectrum of options. Help me to see "the third way" as some call it... "the better way"... "another way of living"... "another way of believing."
To Invite
Matthew 22:1-22
"But the people refused to listen to the servants and left to do other things. One went to work in his field, and another went to his business. Some of the other people grabbed the servants, beat them, and killed them. The king was furious and sent his army to kill the murderers and burn their city. After that, the king said to his servants, 'The wedding feast is ready. I invited those people, but they were not worthy to come. So go to the street corners and invite everyone you find to come to my feast." (Matthew 22:5-9)
Ah, this story is challenging as well, because of the examples that are so applicable to today's society. When invited, one had work to accomplish and another business to attend to. These are two of the most common 'excuses' given (especially in grad school). Well, God doesn't want us to neglect our responsibilities or become lazy, but I do feel that it's important that we get things in the proper order. What is of prominent importance in our lives? God needs to be our priority... we are invited to a feast, to a wedding... into times of worship, prayer and communion and fellowship with our Lord. That is no kind of invitation to ignore.
Exodus 17:1-18:27
"Moses' father-in-law said to him, 'You are not doing this right. You and the people who come to you will get too tired. This is too much work for you; you can't do it by yourself. Now listen to me, and I will give you some advice. I want God to be with you." (Exodus 18:17-19)
To me, this story shows me the importance of listening to God's direction which can come from friends, spiritual leaders, brothers and sisters in Christ. It is important to get the input of other people... to listen to what they have to say, to advice they have to give. Sometimes, they see a better solution or a better way for you to take your spiritual gifts to the Lord. And it is important to note that Jethro's advice is motivated by what he feels God is saying... "I want God to be with you." When I chose to go into BVS, my service site was not an easy decision for me, but after communication with the directors of the church in Brazil, leaders of the program, parents, and close friends, I knew that was where God would "be with me." Lord, I ask that you guide me now... give me the wisdom to listen to my brothers and sisters for the direction that You would have me take in my life... which is Yours. I give it all to You.
To Live
Psalm 18:30-42
"You give me a better way to live, so I live as you want me to." (Psalm 18:36)
A better way to live. Living as the Lord would have me live- what a challenge, a challenge that I admit I fall short of. Yet God is gracious and good and understanding and patient and loving. He loves my efforts to follow faithfully in His footsteps. We tend to see all things as a dichotomy... one color or another, when really it is a spectrum of options. Help me to see "the third way" as some call it... "the better way"... "another way of living"... "another way of believing."
To Invite
Matthew 22:1-22
"But the people refused to listen to the servants and left to do other things. One went to work in his field, and another went to his business. Some of the other people grabbed the servants, beat them, and killed them. The king was furious and sent his army to kill the murderers and burn their city. After that, the king said to his servants, 'The wedding feast is ready. I invited those people, but they were not worthy to come. So go to the street corners and invite everyone you find to come to my feast." (Matthew 22:5-9)
Ah, this story is challenging as well, because of the examples that are so applicable to today's society. When invited, one had work to accomplish and another business to attend to. These are two of the most common 'excuses' given (especially in grad school). Well, God doesn't want us to neglect our responsibilities or become lazy, but I do feel that it's important that we get things in the proper order. What is of prominent importance in our lives? God needs to be our priority... we are invited to a feast, to a wedding... into times of worship, prayer and communion and fellowship with our Lord. That is no kind of invitation to ignore.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Enough Said (Feb 2)
Enough Provision
Exodus 15:1-16:36
"I will cause food to fall like rain from the sky for all of you. Every day the people must go out and gather what they need for that day." (Exodus 16:4)
As in the familiar hymn, "Pray, oh, pray that holy manna may be scattered all around." So beautiful the story of manna... daily bread that truly was a daily bread. Relying on God for provision... day to day requires faith in God's providence. God will give us enough... what we need, and it also reassures us that it is from God. Of course, it always is from God- whatever we have- yet we sometimes forget and sometimes try to take credit. Actually, God is always the only 'breadwinner' of the family. Lord, thank You... for I know that all good things come from You, dear Lord. And You are the one who gives me what I need for today... all days... every day.
Enough Goodness
Psalm 18:20-29
"Lord, you are loyal to those who are loyal, and you are good to those who are good. You are pure to those who are pure, but you are against those who are bad. You save the humble, but you bring down those who are proud." (Psalm 18:25-27)
God's loyalty, goodness, purity... in essence, God's Godness is enough for us to confront anything. We need not fear rejection or isolation or failure or any of those quite naturally instilled human fears, because God if God is with us, who can be against us? In light of God's character, we have only to be humble... recognizing that we are nothing but that God is everything. God doesn't need us at all, and yet loves us and yet seeks us. Lord, I praise You and know not how to thank You for the unbelievable blessings (too many to recount) that You have given to me. Yesterday I had only to whisper thank You with my whole heart and soul... the whole day through. It reminds me of the childhood so that I loved so much,
"God is so good,
God is so good,
God is so good,
He's so good to me.
He answers prayers.
He answers prayers.
He answers prayers.
He's so good to me.
He loves me so.
He loves me so.
He loves me so.
He's so good to me." Amen, Lord.
Enough Direction
Matthew 21:23-46
"'Tell me what you think about this: A man had two sons. He went to the first son and said, 'Son, go and work today in my vineyard.' The son answered, 'I will not go.' But later the son changed his mind and went. Then the father went to the other son and said, 'Son go and work today in my vineyard.' The son answered, 'Yes sir, I will go and work,' but he did not go. Which of the two sons obeyed his father?' The priests and leaders answered, 'The first son.' Jesus said to them, 'I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes will enter the kingdom of God before you do. John came to show you the right way to live. You did not believe him, but the tax collectors and prostitutes believed him. Even after seeing this, you still refused to change your ways and believe him.'" (Matthew 21:28-32)
A familiar story, and one that I would sometimes liken to my brother and myself. When Jerry and I would have a day off of school, my mother (expert list-maker) would leave a long list of chores to complete and things to do. I would groan that I had my own list, complain and state that I would "do what I could;" while my brother would quickly respond that he'd do it. At the end of the day, when my parents came home, lo and behold, I had finished my own school work as well as the long to-do list while Jerry had been busy doing other things... probably Sega or something of the sort. Now, this story deserves a disclaimer. Jerry was quite young at this point... and I always had somewhat of an 'old soul' as some people would put it. So, with the older child's sense of responsibility, I'd set to work accomplishing what needed to be done and let me little brother be my little brother.
The point here, however, is an important one in our Christian living. Jesus points out that our actions must follow our words. If not, our words are empty. In fact, Jesus seems to even point out that in some cases our actions are more important than our words. If you have been shown the right way to live, you need to live it. Believing is connected to a visible change in your ways. If you truly believe with your heart, you will be motivated to live differently. As I see it, this is the very roots of Christian pietism... a need to live out our faith. Lord, teach me to let me words and actions be of one heart... that follows Your direction for my life every day.
Exodus 15:1-16:36
"I will cause food to fall like rain from the sky for all of you. Every day the people must go out and gather what they need for that day." (Exodus 16:4)
As in the familiar hymn, "Pray, oh, pray that holy manna may be scattered all around." So beautiful the story of manna... daily bread that truly was a daily bread. Relying on God for provision... day to day requires faith in God's providence. God will give us enough... what we need, and it also reassures us that it is from God. Of course, it always is from God- whatever we have- yet we sometimes forget and sometimes try to take credit. Actually, God is always the only 'breadwinner' of the family. Lord, thank You... for I know that all good things come from You, dear Lord. And You are the one who gives me what I need for today... all days... every day.
Enough Goodness
Psalm 18:20-29
"Lord, you are loyal to those who are loyal, and you are good to those who are good. You are pure to those who are pure, but you are against those who are bad. You save the humble, but you bring down those who are proud." (Psalm 18:25-27)
God's loyalty, goodness, purity... in essence, God's Godness is enough for us to confront anything. We need not fear rejection or isolation or failure or any of those quite naturally instilled human fears, because God if God is with us, who can be against us? In light of God's character, we have only to be humble... recognizing that we are nothing but that God is everything. God doesn't need us at all, and yet loves us and yet seeks us. Lord, I praise You and know not how to thank You for the unbelievable blessings (too many to recount) that You have given to me. Yesterday I had only to whisper thank You with my whole heart and soul... the whole day through. It reminds me of the childhood so that I loved so much,
"God is so good,
God is so good,
God is so good,
He's so good to me.
He answers prayers.
He answers prayers.
He answers prayers.
He's so good to me.
He loves me so.
He loves me so.
He loves me so.
He's so good to me." Amen, Lord.
Enough Direction
Matthew 21:23-46
"'Tell me what you think about this: A man had two sons. He went to the first son and said, 'Son, go and work today in my vineyard.' The son answered, 'I will not go.' But later the son changed his mind and went. Then the father went to the other son and said, 'Son go and work today in my vineyard.' The son answered, 'Yes sir, I will go and work,' but he did not go. Which of the two sons obeyed his father?' The priests and leaders answered, 'The first son.' Jesus said to them, 'I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes will enter the kingdom of God before you do. John came to show you the right way to live. You did not believe him, but the tax collectors and prostitutes believed him. Even after seeing this, you still refused to change your ways and believe him.'" (Matthew 21:28-32)
A familiar story, and one that I would sometimes liken to my brother and myself. When Jerry and I would have a day off of school, my mother (expert list-maker) would leave a long list of chores to complete and things to do. I would groan that I had my own list, complain and state that I would "do what I could;" while my brother would quickly respond that he'd do it. At the end of the day, when my parents came home, lo and behold, I had finished my own school work as well as the long to-do list while Jerry had been busy doing other things... probably Sega or something of the sort. Now, this story deserves a disclaimer. Jerry was quite young at this point... and I always had somewhat of an 'old soul' as some people would put it. So, with the older child's sense of responsibility, I'd set to work accomplishing what needed to be done and let me little brother be my little brother.
The point here, however, is an important one in our Christian living. Jesus points out that our actions must follow our words. If not, our words are empty. In fact, Jesus seems to even point out that in some cases our actions are more important than our words. If you have been shown the right way to live, you need to live it. Believing is connected to a visible change in your ways. If you truly believe with your heart, you will be motivated to live differently. As I see it, this is the very roots of Christian pietism... a need to live out our faith. Lord, teach me to let me words and actions be of one heart... that follows Your direction for my life every day.
Powerful Presence (Feb 1)
Powerfully Present during the Journey
Exodus 13:1-14:31
"The Lord showed them the way; during the day he went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud, and during the night he was in a pillar of fire to give them light." (Exodus 13:21)
I can only imagine the trek the Israelites were making. Some must've questioned how long it would be before the king with his army came after them. Some must've wondered whether they were really meant to go in the first place. Others must've been curious what they were actually doing or where they were actually going. But... the Lord was present with them in an amazingly powerful way- a pillar of cloud that guided them along their way... not only giving them a sense of direction but also an amazing reassurance of God's presence with them.
I have often told it to people- that for me, presence is the most wonderful present to me. Today, when people have a million things to do and a million things on their mind, it is no easy task to be with someone... and really be there... not planning your next assignment or organizing ideas. Of course there are times when that needs to be done, but in giving a powerful present of presence- I believe you need to be there... in a shared prayer, a common feeling, simply focused time together... being there.
For me, this is the most powerful testimony of God in my life... I have sensed God's presence as He has led me to different opportunities, to different moments, to different aspects of ministry. Perhaps not as visible as a pillar of cloud before me, but I have felt God's directing me in the moments that I've simply needed to go somewhere or do something. I couldn't tell you why or how exactly, but to me... that's part of the magnificence of God's power... which gives me light. Lord, I pray that I continue to follow as You show me the way- to follow faithfully, wherever You lead me.
Powerfully Present in Trouble
Psalm 18:7-19
"The Lord reached down from above and took me; he pulled me from the deep water. He saved me from my powerful enemies, from those who hated me, because they were too strong for me. They attacked me at my time of trouble, but the Lord supported me. He took me to a safe place. Because he delights in me, he saved me." (Psalm 18:16-19)
How beautiful the love of my God who saves me from trouble. Yesterday in church we prayed for the missionaries, and yes, I prayed. To me, it is a matter of deep importance, because I have been there. Living in a different country with different people is no easy task. All of a sudden you are uprooted not only from everyone who is familiar but from everything that is familiar. There are times of deep loneliness... times that you can almost taste it... but those are the times that I learned to turn to the Lord in prayer and study and meditation. And Lord, how I praise you... for reaching out to me in those times of loneliness and taking me to a safe place... rejuvinating me, giving me energy and love and the power of Your spirit... to continue Your work. Lord, I do pray for all of those missionaries... all of those in all of the churches in all of the world, who are working to further Your kingdom, Lord. May they turn to You and feel the power of Your support.
Powerfully Present in Prayer
Matthew 21:1-22
"So Jesus said to the tree, 'You will never again have fruit.' The tree immediately dried up. When his followers saw this, they were amazed. They asked, 'How did the fig tree dry up so quickly?' Jesus answered, 'I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will be able to do what I did to this tree and even more. You will be able to say to this mountain, 'Go, fall into the sea.' And if you have faith, it will happen. If you believe, you will get anything you ask for in prayer.'" (Matthew 21:19-22)
This verse will always remind me of my friend Kammy... who mentioned it to me as we went up to Mt Lemon... recognizing the beautiful reminder of this verse all around us here in Tucson. And even moreso now, because we have begun the lovely tradition of getting together at certain times in the week for a prayer. My lovely sister in Christ is such a wonderful encouragement to me, as we share our concerns and joys and requests and lift it all up to the Lord... believing in His power to do all things- to move mountains, to comfort souls, to provide guidance.
Lord, I pray for Kammy this morning... that she may finish her work and devote her Saturday to You at the conference, that You care for her family back in Botswana- her brother especially, that You comfort and fill both Kammy and her husband with your peace and guidance for their life during this time when they are so far apart, that You care for her spiritual parents and sister Lala who is dealing with a tough situation, and I also praise You Lord for this wonderful friend that You have given me.
Exodus 13:1-14:31
"The Lord showed them the way; during the day he went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud, and during the night he was in a pillar of fire to give them light." (Exodus 13:21)
I can only imagine the trek the Israelites were making. Some must've questioned how long it would be before the king with his army came after them. Some must've wondered whether they were really meant to go in the first place. Others must've been curious what they were actually doing or where they were actually going. But... the Lord was present with them in an amazingly powerful way- a pillar of cloud that guided them along their way... not only giving them a sense of direction but also an amazing reassurance of God's presence with them.
I have often told it to people- that for me, presence is the most wonderful present to me. Today, when people have a million things to do and a million things on their mind, it is no easy task to be with someone... and really be there... not planning your next assignment or organizing ideas. Of course there are times when that needs to be done, but in giving a powerful present of presence- I believe you need to be there... in a shared prayer, a common feeling, simply focused time together... being there.
For me, this is the most powerful testimony of God in my life... I have sensed God's presence as He has led me to different opportunities, to different moments, to different aspects of ministry. Perhaps not as visible as a pillar of cloud before me, but I have felt God's directing me in the moments that I've simply needed to go somewhere or do something. I couldn't tell you why or how exactly, but to me... that's part of the magnificence of God's power... which gives me light. Lord, I pray that I continue to follow as You show me the way- to follow faithfully, wherever You lead me.
Powerfully Present in Trouble
Psalm 18:7-19
"The Lord reached down from above and took me; he pulled me from the deep water. He saved me from my powerful enemies, from those who hated me, because they were too strong for me. They attacked me at my time of trouble, but the Lord supported me. He took me to a safe place. Because he delights in me, he saved me." (Psalm 18:16-19)
How beautiful the love of my God who saves me from trouble. Yesterday in church we prayed for the missionaries, and yes, I prayed. To me, it is a matter of deep importance, because I have been there. Living in a different country with different people is no easy task. All of a sudden you are uprooted not only from everyone who is familiar but from everything that is familiar. There are times of deep loneliness... times that you can almost taste it... but those are the times that I learned to turn to the Lord in prayer and study and meditation. And Lord, how I praise you... for reaching out to me in those times of loneliness and taking me to a safe place... rejuvinating me, giving me energy and love and the power of Your spirit... to continue Your work. Lord, I do pray for all of those missionaries... all of those in all of the churches in all of the world, who are working to further Your kingdom, Lord. May they turn to You and feel the power of Your support.
Powerfully Present in Prayer
Matthew 21:1-22
"So Jesus said to the tree, 'You will never again have fruit.' The tree immediately dried up. When his followers saw this, they were amazed. They asked, 'How did the fig tree dry up so quickly?' Jesus answered, 'I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will be able to do what I did to this tree and even more. You will be able to say to this mountain, 'Go, fall into the sea.' And if you have faith, it will happen. If you believe, you will get anything you ask for in prayer.'" (Matthew 21:19-22)
This verse will always remind me of my friend Kammy... who mentioned it to me as we went up to Mt Lemon... recognizing the beautiful reminder of this verse all around us here in Tucson. And even moreso now, because we have begun the lovely tradition of getting together at certain times in the week for a prayer. My lovely sister in Christ is such a wonderful encouragement to me, as we share our concerns and joys and requests and lift it all up to the Lord... believing in His power to do all things- to move mountains, to comfort souls, to provide guidance.
Lord, I pray for Kammy this morning... that she may finish her work and devote her Saturday to You at the conference, that You care for her family back in Botswana- her brother especially, that You comfort and fill both Kammy and her husband with your peace and guidance for their life during this time when they are so far apart, that You care for her spiritual parents and sister Lala who is dealing with a tough situation, and I also praise You Lord for this wonderful friend that You have given me.
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