A Forever Agreement
Leviticus 1:1-2:16
"Salt stands for your agreement with God that will last forever; do not leave it out of your grain offering." (Leviticus 2:13)
Salt, a favorite addition to dishes of all kinds, was a much more precious commodity back in the day when it wasn't so easy to preserve foods. Leftovers? Stick it in the fridge. The what? Salt, known for its powers of preserving food and making it last is here seen as a symbolic addition to the grain offerings given to the Lord- a reminder of the agreement with God that will last forever.
Wow... what a beautiful reminder that is. I hope to keep this in mind every time I see salt throughout this week. In a world where nothing seems to last very long, I am so thankful, God, that all of the promises, all of the agreements, all of the love that You have offered me are forever.
A Forever Lord
Psalm 22:22-31
"The people in the future will serve him; they will always be told about the Lord. They will tell that he does what is right. People who are not yet born will hear what God has done." (Psalm 22:30-31)
The Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. Our God was served and worshiped and known way back in the day... and still now we praise His holiness. And people in the future will learn to know and love the Lord God. From generation to generation, our God is not a fashionable fad but a father of all creation who was and is and is to come.
A Forever Savior
Matthew 27:32-56
"At noon the whole country became dark, and the darkness lasted for three hours." (Matthew 27:45)
A dark day indeed. It is quite fitting that the skies darkened on such a day. While the darkness lasted only three hours, the unfathomable sacrifice of our Savior lasted much longer. Praise the Lord. Jesus laid down his life for us in a way that saves all of us forever... if only we accept this gift.
Today in church, we read that familiar verse- "greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." And if we are to love as Jesus loved us, we must lay down our life for our Lord (who is our friend in a personal relationship that we seek with Him) and each other (who we are told to love... not just our friends). What a challenging scripture. Love is something that comes kind of easily to me... but laying down my life, leaving all aside. This evening the hermana spoke of the Phillipians 3 passage where he "considers everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things." (8) Lord, you laid down your life on that cross so long ago... dying to save me from my sins. I pray that You take my life... I will lose it all for You, God, because You are the most important part of my life and I want to follow where You would lead me.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Love's Labor
Labor that Built the Holy Tent
Exodus 39:1-40:38
"The Israelites had done all this work just as the Lord had commanded Moses. Moses looked closely at all the work and saw they had done it just as the Lord had commanded. So Moses blessed them." (Exodus 39:42-43)
All the altars and vests and robes and tablets and tables and curtains and poles and bowls of olive oil, all of these detailed instructions were followed "just as the Lord had commanded." Moses must've been very pleased, just as God was pleased with their work... but even moreso with the loving way that they took the care to do it "just so," exactly according to God's commands. Sometimes you can always tell when something is made for you or done for you, in such a completely loving way... a simple crayon drawing or a delicious blueberry cobbler or a comforting hug just when you need it the most. I am convinced that God, "who looks at the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7), also knows and is pleased when we give and work from our love for Him. I remember the joy I felt when I graduated from college and could give my first tithe and how easy it was for me to see Jesus as I worked with friends and students and irmaos in Campo Limpo. Lord, may all my work (my studies, my teaching, my interactions with everyone everday) reflect my love for You.
Labor that Protects Us
Psalm 22:19-21
"But, Lord, don't be far away. You are my strength; hurry to help me." (Psalm 22:19)
Any parent will know that it is hard work to take care of just a couple of children- a constant daily labor that I had only a taste of when I inherited two little boys (my Mexican brothers) for three weeks (all day, every day) a few summers ago. At playtime, at mealtime, at bedtime and every other time in between, the younger the child the more protecting and supervision they needed. You can't be far away for very long. (I'm reminded of Amy who is sick along with her two adorable children, how difficult that must be... I pray for them all to feel much better soon.)
Well, Abba, our dear Father, is always nearby... and I feel that I am always crying out for help in times of struggle, for guidance in times of confusing, for comfort in times of loss. And like the most wonderful parent that He is, my Lord is my strength... and always is faithful in responding to me in some way, showing His great unfailing love for someone so small as me.
Labor that Saved Us All
Matthew 27:1-31
"So Pilate said to Jesus, 'Don't you hear them accusing you of all these things?' But Jesus said nothing in answer to Pilate, and Pilate was very surprised at this.... All the people answered, 'We and our children will be responsible for his death.'" (Matthew 27:13-14, 25)
Such a painful scene, but so important to our faith. First, Jesus' amazing truly incomprehensible love is shown in his silence. He doesn't start to make a case for himself and point out that he's done nothing wrong. Of course he hasn't... but that's not the point. Jesus did not need to face that cross. The man that performed so many miracles certainly could've avoided the cross, but out of obedience to the Father and love for every one of us, He went willingly. And this is what makes it all the more powerful.
And this second verse also stood out to me, that the people (perhaps unknowingly) recognize that they and their children are responsible for Jesus' death. We really all are, because Jesus died to save us from our own sins. What happened was our responsibility, but Jesus forgives us- not for any ordinary death but a painful and shameful death. The king of the world took on our sins in an amazing expression of love. I still cannot quite comprehend the depths of this love, but Lord Jesus I praise You for this, and I thank You for the hope that You have given to me and the extent of that loving sacrifice.
Exodus 39:1-40:38
"The Israelites had done all this work just as the Lord had commanded Moses. Moses looked closely at all the work and saw they had done it just as the Lord had commanded. So Moses blessed them." (Exodus 39:42-43)
All the altars and vests and robes and tablets and tables and curtains and poles and bowls of olive oil, all of these detailed instructions were followed "just as the Lord had commanded." Moses must've been very pleased, just as God was pleased with their work... but even moreso with the loving way that they took the care to do it "just so," exactly according to God's commands. Sometimes you can always tell when something is made for you or done for you, in such a completely loving way... a simple crayon drawing or a delicious blueberry cobbler or a comforting hug just when you need it the most. I am convinced that God, "who looks at the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7), also knows and is pleased when we give and work from our love for Him. I remember the joy I felt when I graduated from college and could give my first tithe and how easy it was for me to see Jesus as I worked with friends and students and irmaos in Campo Limpo. Lord, may all my work (my studies, my teaching, my interactions with everyone everday) reflect my love for You.
Labor that Protects Us
Psalm 22:19-21
"But, Lord, don't be far away. You are my strength; hurry to help me." (Psalm 22:19)
Any parent will know that it is hard work to take care of just a couple of children- a constant daily labor that I had only a taste of when I inherited two little boys (my Mexican brothers) for three weeks (all day, every day) a few summers ago. At playtime, at mealtime, at bedtime and every other time in between, the younger the child the more protecting and supervision they needed. You can't be far away for very long. (I'm reminded of Amy who is sick along with her two adorable children, how difficult that must be... I pray for them all to feel much better soon.)
Well, Abba, our dear Father, is always nearby... and I feel that I am always crying out for help in times of struggle, for guidance in times of confusing, for comfort in times of loss. And like the most wonderful parent that He is, my Lord is my strength... and always is faithful in responding to me in some way, showing His great unfailing love for someone so small as me.
Labor that Saved Us All
Matthew 27:1-31
"So Pilate said to Jesus, 'Don't you hear them accusing you of all these things?' But Jesus said nothing in answer to Pilate, and Pilate was very surprised at this.... All the people answered, 'We and our children will be responsible for his death.'" (Matthew 27:13-14, 25)
Such a painful scene, but so important to our faith. First, Jesus' amazing truly incomprehensible love is shown in his silence. He doesn't start to make a case for himself and point out that he's done nothing wrong. Of course he hasn't... but that's not the point. Jesus did not need to face that cross. The man that performed so many miracles certainly could've avoided the cross, but out of obedience to the Father and love for every one of us, He went willingly. And this is what makes it all the more powerful.
And this second verse also stood out to me, that the people (perhaps unknowingly) recognize that they and their children are responsible for Jesus' death. We really all are, because Jesus died to save us from our own sins. What happened was our responsibility, but Jesus forgives us- not for any ordinary death but a painful and shameful death. The king of the world took on our sins in an amazing expression of love. I still cannot quite comprehend the depths of this love, but Lord Jesus I praise You for this, and I thank You for the hope that You have given to me and the extent of that loving sacrifice.
Friday, February 13, 2009
A Lasting Love
A Lifelong Love
Psalm 22:9-18
"You had my mother give birth to me. You made me trust you while I was just a baby. I have leaned on you since the day I was born; you have been my God since my mother gave me birth. So don't be far away from me. Now trouble is near, and there is no one to help." (Psalm 22:9-11)
This seems to harken to Matthew 18:3 that we must become like little children in order to enter the Kingdom of God. Children are amazing in their complete love and trust and acceptance of God's goodness. While it is true that we need to keep spiritually maturing and putting 'childish things behind us,' it is also true that we need a childlike heart that so fully depends on God.
I personally believe that all children sense God's presence in a way, although they may not put it into words or express it that way. Perhaps I should speak from my own experience. I know that as a child I felt very close to God. There was no doubt in my mind that I needed God had always been with me and that I needed God for everything. As we grow, we fool ourselves into believing that 'we can handle it.' And it somehow seems (as the Psalmist describes) that we wait until times of trouble that we turn to God once again as a child... crying out for help to the loving God who has always been there for us.
A Rich Love
Proverbs 8:12-21
"What I give is better than the finest gold, better than the purest silver." (Proverbs 8:19)
Again, as money is such a touchy subject in recent days, it's hard to think about the reality of this verse... and how it affects so many people who are very seriously in need of 'gold' and 'silver.' But, it's interesting to reread this verse, and know that what the Psalmist gives is better than the 'finest' gold and 'purest' silver. The writer recognizes that Our Lord wants to provide for basic needs... through the church, through volunteers, through organizations, through employment services, through food banks, through the Pslamist himself. Still, these are not the greatest things. In Matthew 6:19, we are remember that these 'treasures' are the kind that moth and rust can destroy. Still better to fix our eyes upon the lasting treasures given to us through the truly rich love that God has offered us in Jesus' ultimate loving sacrifice which offers us eternal salvation from our sins.
A Forgiving Love
Matthew 26:57-75
"And Peter remembered what Jesus had told him. 'Before the rooster crows, you will say three times that you don't know me.' Then Peter went outside and cried painfully." (Matthew 26:75)
This betrayal must've been so painful for both Peter and Jesus (who knew what was about to take place). I'm quite fortunate in that I can't think of a similar example in my life. Still, I think in little things we are able to see how greatly we fear such a painful mistep by a close friend. We carefully hide ourselves before we build enough trust with someone, and then the moment that they disclose some information that we deemed private or say something hurtful, etc., we retreat and distance ourselves a bit more.
What did Jesus do? Jesus knew that Peter would betray him, but Jesus loved him. Jesus washed Peter's feet... and while I have always seen this as purely a symbol of servanthood, I have recently grown to more deeply appreciate its value as an act of cleansing and forgiveness of sins. Jesus, help me to love in this way... with such a great gorgiving love that it covers all of the pain caused by small or great sins.
Psalm 22:9-18
"You had my mother give birth to me. You made me trust you while I was just a baby. I have leaned on you since the day I was born; you have been my God since my mother gave me birth. So don't be far away from me. Now trouble is near, and there is no one to help." (Psalm 22:9-11)
This seems to harken to Matthew 18:3 that we must become like little children in order to enter the Kingdom of God. Children are amazing in their complete love and trust and acceptance of God's goodness. While it is true that we need to keep spiritually maturing and putting 'childish things behind us,' it is also true that we need a childlike heart that so fully depends on God.
I personally believe that all children sense God's presence in a way, although they may not put it into words or express it that way. Perhaps I should speak from my own experience. I know that as a child I felt very close to God. There was no doubt in my mind that I needed God had always been with me and that I needed God for everything. As we grow, we fool ourselves into believing that 'we can handle it.' And it somehow seems (as the Psalmist describes) that we wait until times of trouble that we turn to God once again as a child... crying out for help to the loving God who has always been there for us.
A Rich Love
Proverbs 8:12-21
"What I give is better than the finest gold, better than the purest silver." (Proverbs 8:19)
Again, as money is such a touchy subject in recent days, it's hard to think about the reality of this verse... and how it affects so many people who are very seriously in need of 'gold' and 'silver.' But, it's interesting to reread this verse, and know that what the Psalmist gives is better than the 'finest' gold and 'purest' silver. The writer recognizes that Our Lord wants to provide for basic needs... through the church, through volunteers, through organizations, through employment services, through food banks, through the Pslamist himself. Still, these are not the greatest things. In Matthew 6:19, we are remember that these 'treasures' are the kind that moth and rust can destroy. Still better to fix our eyes upon the lasting treasures given to us through the truly rich love that God has offered us in Jesus' ultimate loving sacrifice which offers us eternal salvation from our sins.
A Forgiving Love
Matthew 26:57-75
"And Peter remembered what Jesus had told him. 'Before the rooster crows, you will say three times that you don't know me.' Then Peter went outside and cried painfully." (Matthew 26:75)
This betrayal must've been so painful for both Peter and Jesus (who knew what was about to take place). I'm quite fortunate in that I can't think of a similar example in my life. Still, I think in little things we are able to see how greatly we fear such a painful mistep by a close friend. We carefully hide ourselves before we build enough trust with someone, and then the moment that they disclose some information that we deemed private or say something hurtful, etc., we retreat and distance ourselves a bit more.
What did Jesus do? Jesus knew that Peter would betray him, but Jesus loved him. Jesus washed Peter's feet... and while I have always seen this as purely a symbol of servanthood, I have recently grown to more deeply appreciate its value as an act of cleansing and forgiveness of sins. Jesus, help me to love in this way... with such a great gorgiving love that it covers all of the pain caused by small or great sins.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
To Do What is Right
~Most of us continually aim to do what is 'right,' and while this may spur on a philosophical discussion about whether this statement implies a certain overarching type of Jung's Universals, let's stick to the practicality. At least as Christians, we have a certain common guide on 'what is right'. And we can use God's gifts, teaching, and prayer to follow in the 'right' way.
Skills
Exodus 35:1-36:38
"Then Moses said to the Israelites, 'Look, the Lord has chosen Bezalel son of Uri the son of Hur, from the tribe of Judah. The Lord has filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God and has given him the skill, ability, and knowledge to do all kinds of work. He is able to design pieces to be made of gold, silver, and bronze, to cut stones and jewels and put them in metal, to carve wood, and to do all kinds of work. Also the Lord has given Bezalel and Oholiah, the son of Ahisamach from the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others. The Lord has given them the skill to do all kinds of work." (Exodus 35:30-35)
The Lord has given me so many blessings in my life, and among them is the blessing of meeting so many wonderful and faithful Christians who have put their God-given talents and skills to good use for the furthering of the kingdom. My roommate in Brazil, Marisa (tutoring director), had such an amazing ability to work with children, Dick Shreckhise (LCOB pastor) an amazing art for storytelling, my Uncle Rod (Young Adult leader, ordained minister) unbelievable patience and compassion, Christy Dowdy (pastor SCOB) a generous source of guidance, Daniel DeOleo and his family (MMF) warm and welcoming hearts that invite all into their hearts and homes, and Dave Witcovsky (Juniata chaplain) a great source of encouragement along the journey. Oh, but there are so many more... in each place where God leads me, most recently Shalom, Iglesia (here in Tucson and in Irvington).
Just like Bezalel and Oholiah before them, each one of these faithful servants and so many more are using their God-given talents, abilities, skills to 'do what is right', to further God's kingdom. Lord, I pray to follow the lead of so many examples in my life... to use the skills (dons) You have given to me and do what is right in Your eyes.
Another example, right here at the U of A... to help me teach in a way that is honoring to God... http://uanews.org/node/23789
Teaching
Proverbs 8:6-11
"People with good sense know what I say is true, and those with knowledge know my words are right. Choose my teachings instead of silver, and knowledge rather than the finest gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies. Nothing you could want is equal to it." (Proverbs 8:9-11)
Sometimes the choice between right and wrong is honestly a choice between an extra paycheck or none. The current economic climate makes these choices between what is right and what is profitable particularly difficult. Still, I am encouraged by stories of friends who have recently reported (albiet somewhat sadly) mistakes with money that involved giving back what was not theirs. After all, we have all the access to all the riches that we need- riches in the wisdom and teachings in the Bible. If we are to be generous with giving out of our material wealth, then how much more should we give out of our spiritual wealth... the beauty of the treasures held in the Bible are not for us alone. To me it would seem that 'doing what is right' is not only following these teachings (guarding these riches) but sharing these teachings (telling of these treasure). Lord, teach me to uphold Your teachings and also share these with all who need to know You.
Prayer
Matthew 26:26-56
"Then Jesus went back to his followers and found them asleep. He said to Peter, 'You men could not stay awake with me for one hour? Stay awake and pray for strength against temptation. The spirit wants to do what is right, but the body is weak.'" (Matthew 26:39-41)
I am quite encouraged this semester that the GCF (Graduate Christian Fellowship) is focusing on prayer. Prayer is a moment that we can spent in communion with God, seeking God's will for our lives, lifting up prayer concerns, praising our Creator for the wonderful gifts He has given, asking forgiveness for the moments we have fallen. And yes... we can ask for strength and guidance. Jesus here seems to point out that just trying (of our own accord) to do what is right is not enough. Our bodies (our physical selves) are not enough to guard against temptation. We are human- we are weak... and our bodies and souls need the strength that God can give us in prayer in order to continue to follow the Lord's will and way for our lives. Lord, I pray to You for strength in this day and those that follow... that You may guide me in Your ways, because Lord my spirit does want to do what is right, but my body needs the strength that You can give to follow faithfully.
Skills
Exodus 35:1-36:38
"Then Moses said to the Israelites, 'Look, the Lord has chosen Bezalel son of Uri the son of Hur, from the tribe of Judah. The Lord has filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God and has given him the skill, ability, and knowledge to do all kinds of work. He is able to design pieces to be made of gold, silver, and bronze, to cut stones and jewels and put them in metal, to carve wood, and to do all kinds of work. Also the Lord has given Bezalel and Oholiah, the son of Ahisamach from the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others. The Lord has given them the skill to do all kinds of work." (Exodus 35:30-35)
The Lord has given me so many blessings in my life, and among them is the blessing of meeting so many wonderful and faithful Christians who have put their God-given talents and skills to good use for the furthering of the kingdom. My roommate in Brazil, Marisa (tutoring director), had such an amazing ability to work with children, Dick Shreckhise (LCOB pastor) an amazing art for storytelling, my Uncle Rod (Young Adult leader, ordained minister) unbelievable patience and compassion, Christy Dowdy (pastor SCOB) a generous source of guidance, Daniel DeOleo and his family (MMF) warm and welcoming hearts that invite all into their hearts and homes, and Dave Witcovsky (Juniata chaplain) a great source of encouragement along the journey. Oh, but there are so many more... in each place where God leads me, most recently Shalom, Iglesia (here in Tucson and in Irvington).
Just like Bezalel and Oholiah before them, each one of these faithful servants and so many more are using their God-given talents, abilities, skills to 'do what is right', to further God's kingdom. Lord, I pray to follow the lead of so many examples in my life... to use the skills (dons) You have given to me and do what is right in Your eyes.
Another example, right here at the U of A... to help me teach in a way that is honoring to God... http://uanews.org/node/23789
Teaching
Proverbs 8:6-11
"People with good sense know what I say is true, and those with knowledge know my words are right. Choose my teachings instead of silver, and knowledge rather than the finest gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies. Nothing you could want is equal to it." (Proverbs 8:9-11)
Sometimes the choice between right and wrong is honestly a choice between an extra paycheck or none. The current economic climate makes these choices between what is right and what is profitable particularly difficult. Still, I am encouraged by stories of friends who have recently reported (albiet somewhat sadly) mistakes with money that involved giving back what was not theirs. After all, we have all the access to all the riches that we need- riches in the wisdom and teachings in the Bible. If we are to be generous with giving out of our material wealth, then how much more should we give out of our spiritual wealth... the beauty of the treasures held in the Bible are not for us alone. To me it would seem that 'doing what is right' is not only following these teachings (guarding these riches) but sharing these teachings (telling of these treasure). Lord, teach me to uphold Your teachings and also share these with all who need to know You.
Prayer
Matthew 26:26-56
"Then Jesus went back to his followers and found them asleep. He said to Peter, 'You men could not stay awake with me for one hour? Stay awake and pray for strength against temptation. The spirit wants to do what is right, but the body is weak.'" (Matthew 26:39-41)
I am quite encouraged this semester that the GCF (Graduate Christian Fellowship) is focusing on prayer. Prayer is a moment that we can spent in communion with God, seeking God's will for our lives, lifting up prayer concerns, praising our Creator for the wonderful gifts He has given, asking forgiveness for the moments we have fallen. And yes... we can ask for strength and guidance. Jesus here seems to point out that just trying (of our own accord) to do what is right is not enough. Our bodies (our physical selves) are not enough to guard against temptation. We are human- we are weak... and our bodies and souls need the strength that God can give us in prayer in order to continue to follow the Lord's will and way for our lives. Lord, I pray to You for strength in this day and those that follow... that You may guide me in Your ways, because Lord my spirit does want to do what is right, but my body needs the strength that You can give to follow faithfully.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
God's Glory Shines
On Moses' Face
Exodus 33:1-34:35
"But he did not know that his face what shining because he had talked with the Lord. When Aaron and all the people of Israel saw that Moses' face was shining, they were afraid to go near him." (Exodus 34:29-30)
I imagine someone's face shining, full of some kind of fluorescent light, and I must admit that I'd probably be a bit afraid to go near Moses, too. Yet, while I haven't seen anyone with a brightly lit face (save the occasional Halloween costume), I have seen people whose faces "light up," in a figurative manner of speaking, when talking about their service to the Lord. They talk about their Vacation Bible School theme, their servant evangelism project, their worship with the Germantown Choir, their weekly bible study, or the Cajas de Alabastro.
There is an 'hermana' at the church whose face seems to light up to me as each week during the month of February she reminds us of the significance of the Alabaster Box that collects money to be sent for missions. She faithfully places what offering she has in the box and tells of what this will do and where it will go. From her "shining face," I know that God has given her the heart and mission to remind us of our part in this ministry. Lord, may my face shine with the words that You have given me... as I allow You to fill me with Your glory and Your mission for my life... everyday.
In His Power
Psalm 21:8-13
"Be supreme, Lord, in your power. We sing and praise your greatness." (Psalm 21:13)
God's power is so great... so much greater than I can even really imagine or comprehend. And the most amazing part is that God in His greatness will give me the power to do His will. Alone I could certainly not face the task of communicating with refugees from diverse places of the world or set off on my own to a different country or speak peace in a violent world. Andrew reminded me last night that God's power fills us with the ability to show God's shining glory to a dark world that so needs to see God's almighty presence. And for this, we praise God's greatness... with all that we do through His power. Lord, show me where You would have me use Your power this day, so that I may live and display Your glory and sing Your praise with my life.
In the Woman's Alabaster Jar
Matthew 26:1-25
"Knowing what had happened, Jesus said, 'Why are you troubling this woman? She did an excellent thing for me. You will always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. This woman poured perfume on my body to prepare me for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached in all the world, what this woman has done will be told, and people will remember her.'" (Matthew 26:10-13)
One of the most amazing things about the Bible is the inclusion of women throughout the text. Comparable books written at that time, and in that cultural and societal setting, display little mention of women. So many stories in the Bible include women as prominent characters, as role models even. While everyone was sitting around and Jesus was having a meal, this woman enters with a jar of expensive perfume and pours it on Jesus' feet.
The humble act of service combined with the generous expensive gift must've made this scene quite shocking. In fact, it is to these reactions that Jesus replies, "She did an excellent thing for me." This woman gave all that she had (her money and her pride) in order to honor the Lord who was there before her... preparing Jesus for his burial and in a way 'washing his feet' before the next scene in which Jesus knelt to wash his disciples' feet. This woman recognized Jesus' amazing glory in a way that others in the room had learned to take for granted... to be in Jesus' presence in a very real way, she knew how sacred and holy and glorious and special an experience it was.
And for this, Jesus promises that she will be remember, what she has done will be told about... her testimony will shine in all the world. Lord, may we learn to serve You so humbly and honor You with such generosity... that it may be a light to all generations.
Exodus 33:1-34:35
"But he did not know that his face what shining because he had talked with the Lord. When Aaron and all the people of Israel saw that Moses' face was shining, they were afraid to go near him." (Exodus 34:29-30)
I imagine someone's face shining, full of some kind of fluorescent light, and I must admit that I'd probably be a bit afraid to go near Moses, too. Yet, while I haven't seen anyone with a brightly lit face (save the occasional Halloween costume), I have seen people whose faces "light up," in a figurative manner of speaking, when talking about their service to the Lord. They talk about their Vacation Bible School theme, their servant evangelism project, their worship with the Germantown Choir, their weekly bible study, or the Cajas de Alabastro.
There is an 'hermana' at the church whose face seems to light up to me as each week during the month of February she reminds us of the significance of the Alabaster Box that collects money to be sent for missions. She faithfully places what offering she has in the box and tells of what this will do and where it will go. From her "shining face," I know that God has given her the heart and mission to remind us of our part in this ministry. Lord, may my face shine with the words that You have given me... as I allow You to fill me with Your glory and Your mission for my life... everyday.
In His Power
Psalm 21:8-13
"Be supreme, Lord, in your power. We sing and praise your greatness." (Psalm 21:13)
God's power is so great... so much greater than I can even really imagine or comprehend. And the most amazing part is that God in His greatness will give me the power to do His will. Alone I could certainly not face the task of communicating with refugees from diverse places of the world or set off on my own to a different country or speak peace in a violent world. Andrew reminded me last night that God's power fills us with the ability to show God's shining glory to a dark world that so needs to see God's almighty presence. And for this, we praise God's greatness... with all that we do through His power. Lord, show me where You would have me use Your power this day, so that I may live and display Your glory and sing Your praise with my life.
In the Woman's Alabaster Jar
Matthew 26:1-25
"Knowing what had happened, Jesus said, 'Why are you troubling this woman? She did an excellent thing for me. You will always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. This woman poured perfume on my body to prepare me for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached in all the world, what this woman has done will be told, and people will remember her.'" (Matthew 26:10-13)
One of the most amazing things about the Bible is the inclusion of women throughout the text. Comparable books written at that time, and in that cultural and societal setting, display little mention of women. So many stories in the Bible include women as prominent characters, as role models even. While everyone was sitting around and Jesus was having a meal, this woman enters with a jar of expensive perfume and pours it on Jesus' feet.
The humble act of service combined with the generous expensive gift must've made this scene quite shocking. In fact, it is to these reactions that Jesus replies, "She did an excellent thing for me." This woman gave all that she had (her money and her pride) in order to honor the Lord who was there before her... preparing Jesus for his burial and in a way 'washing his feet' before the next scene in which Jesus knelt to wash his disciples' feet. This woman recognized Jesus' amazing glory in a way that others in the room had learned to take for granted... to be in Jesus' presence in a very real way, she knew how sacred and holy and glorious and special an experience it was.
And for this, Jesus promises that she will be remember, what she has done will be told about... her testimony will shine in all the world. Lord, may we learn to serve You so humbly and honor You with such generosity... that it may be a light to all generations.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Guard Against
Impatience
Exodus 31:1-32:35
"The people saw that a long time had passed and Moses had not come down from the mountain. So they gathered around Aaron and said, 'Moses led us out of Egypt, but we don't know what has happened to him. Make us gods who will lead us.'" (Exodus 32:1)
We live in a culture that searches for immediate gratification... everything right now. But this problem isn't so recent. It seems that people have always had trouble waiting, practicing patience. In this verse, the Israelites "saw that a long time had passed." We don't know how long a long time is, but they were tired of waiting. They wanted an answer, a leader right now. These troubles resulted from their impatience, their lack of willingness to wait for Moses to come back down to them. Lord, sometimes I am impatient. I want to know now what You will is for my life, where You would use me. Teach me to wait patiently... knowing that You have plans for me and You will make them known in Your time.
Doubt
Psalm 21:1-7
"The king truly trusts the Lord. Because God Most High always loves him, he will not be overwhelmed." (Psalm 21:7)
Sunday in church the pastor spoke of one of those all too terrible events, the one that you hope never to touch your family, or anyone's family. A death of someone too young. And again, I was flooded with sadness and pain as I couldn't help but remember the agony of losing my cousin, over a year and a half ago now. It's so strange how all of the pain seems so close and real, despite the passage of time. And I remember those very dark days when I wondered how I could trust in a God who would let such things happen to my cousin, to the whole family. At times, it seemed so much more than I could bare. But, God forgave me my moments of doubt, and I realized that even in those darkest hours I could turn to God in prayer... for a power that I needed to get me through the pain. Lord, especially when it is hard, I need to trust in You.
Apathy
Matthew 25:31-46
"Then those people will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or alone and away from home or without clothes or sick or in prison? When did we see these things and not help you?' Then the King will answer, 'I tell you the truth, anything you refused to do for even the least of my people here, you refused to do for me.'" (Matthew 25:44-45)
Sometimes I feel so challenged by this scripture. I pass by and come into contact with so many people every day. And even those I don't meet upon the street, that doesn't excuse me, for the scripture even speaks of those 'in prison'. Just because someone is far away, in a different situation, just because we are busy... none of this is an excuse not to serve our brothers and sisters, not to care for the least of these. I know so many amazing BVSers, now and in times past, who have given up years to work where there was a need. And now I pray, Lord, that You teach me how to care for Your people here everyday- not letting my apathy or business or my own life get in the way.
Exodus 31:1-32:35
"The people saw that a long time had passed and Moses had not come down from the mountain. So they gathered around Aaron and said, 'Moses led us out of Egypt, but we don't know what has happened to him. Make us gods who will lead us.'" (Exodus 32:1)
We live in a culture that searches for immediate gratification... everything right now. But this problem isn't so recent. It seems that people have always had trouble waiting, practicing patience. In this verse, the Israelites "saw that a long time had passed." We don't know how long a long time is, but they were tired of waiting. They wanted an answer, a leader right now. These troubles resulted from their impatience, their lack of willingness to wait for Moses to come back down to them. Lord, sometimes I am impatient. I want to know now what You will is for my life, where You would use me. Teach me to wait patiently... knowing that You have plans for me and You will make them known in Your time.
Doubt
Psalm 21:1-7
"The king truly trusts the Lord. Because God Most High always loves him, he will not be overwhelmed." (Psalm 21:7)
Sunday in church the pastor spoke of one of those all too terrible events, the one that you hope never to touch your family, or anyone's family. A death of someone too young. And again, I was flooded with sadness and pain as I couldn't help but remember the agony of losing my cousin, over a year and a half ago now. It's so strange how all of the pain seems so close and real, despite the passage of time. And I remember those very dark days when I wondered how I could trust in a God who would let such things happen to my cousin, to the whole family. At times, it seemed so much more than I could bare. But, God forgave me my moments of doubt, and I realized that even in those darkest hours I could turn to God in prayer... for a power that I needed to get me through the pain. Lord, especially when it is hard, I need to trust in You.
Apathy
Matthew 25:31-46
"Then those people will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or alone and away from home or without clothes or sick or in prison? When did we see these things and not help you?' Then the King will answer, 'I tell you the truth, anything you refused to do for even the least of my people here, you refused to do for me.'" (Matthew 25:44-45)
Sometimes I feel so challenged by this scripture. I pass by and come into contact with so many people every day. And even those I don't meet upon the street, that doesn't excuse me, for the scripture even speaks of those 'in prison'. Just because someone is far away, in a different situation, just because we are busy... none of this is an excuse not to serve our brothers and sisters, not to care for the least of these. I know so many amazing BVSers, now and in times past, who have given up years to work where there was a need. And now I pray, Lord, that You teach me how to care for Your people here everyday- not letting my apathy or business or my own life get in the way.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Trust in the Lord's
Presence
Exodus 29:1-30:38
"I will live with the people of Israel and be their God. And they will know that I am the Lord their God who led them out of Egypt so that I could live with them. I am the Lord their God." (Exodus 29:45-46)
A god who lives among us... oh Lord, Your goodness is too much for me to understand. That You would live here with us. And I feel Your presence all around me... as I call out in prayer, as I walk on a lovely trail looking at the amazing clouds and admire a colorful sunset. Lord I trust in the presence of Your holy spirit to guide me through each day... as I attempt to live it for You, God.
Protection
Psalm 20:6-9
"Some trust in chariots, others in horses, but we trust the Lord our God." (Psalm 20:7)
Ah the old war references. Yes, I am a pacifist, and thus very very biased on this account. But I agree with this Psalm. Our trust in wars is misplaced and illogical. It's a 'solution' that isn't really a solution to anything. It has never fixed the problem and taken years and years in some cases. Instead of thinking of an alternative way, people just keep doing the same thing over and over again- the same plan of attack. Now I know there are proper precautions in certain areas, but sometimes I feel that security systems and armored cars and large armies with nuclear weapons make us feel 'safe' quite falsely. Back at the September 11th attacks, no one could believe it. Why? Because we trusted the strong, powerful, invincible US Army to protect us from these kinds of things. This trust is misplaced, because no one is invincible except God... no one is powerful except God. Lord, let me trust in You for all things, for my protection.
Purpose
Matthew 25:1-30
"He gave... to each [servant] as much as he could handle... The master answered, 'You did well. You are a good and loyal servant. Because you were loyal with small things, I will let you care for much greater things. Come and share my joy with me.'" (Matthew 25:15, 21)
Such a beautiful verse, which I actually read in church yesterday... what a coincidence. It is a very lovely story in its entirety, but these two parts especially stood out to me this morning. God gives each of us as much as we can handle- a unique purpose designed to meet our gifts and passions and the world's need, as some would put it. And God has used my gifts in so many settings where it has just worked so beautifully, where I have felt of use- Hbg 1st, Lancaster, DR, Guatemala, Brazil. When I think back on those experiences, I know that I must follow where God leads me, as his 'good and loyal servant,' because I have felt so close to God in those times. And I trust that God will reveal His purpose for my life as it unfolds... because after each short moment of service (small things) in MSS (Ministry Summer Service) or a DR Youth Conference, God has given me the opportunity to serve in greater things... a 2 year term of service. Lord, I love these moments serving You, and I pray that You show me how to trust in You and follow Your lead, because I love these moments... serving and sharing in Your joy.
Exodus 29:1-30:38
"I will live with the people of Israel and be their God. And they will know that I am the Lord their God who led them out of Egypt so that I could live with them. I am the Lord their God." (Exodus 29:45-46)
A god who lives among us... oh Lord, Your goodness is too much for me to understand. That You would live here with us. And I feel Your presence all around me... as I call out in prayer, as I walk on a lovely trail looking at the amazing clouds and admire a colorful sunset. Lord I trust in the presence of Your holy spirit to guide me through each day... as I attempt to live it for You, God.
Protection
Psalm 20:6-9
"Some trust in chariots, others in horses, but we trust the Lord our God." (Psalm 20:7)
Ah the old war references. Yes, I am a pacifist, and thus very very biased on this account. But I agree with this Psalm. Our trust in wars is misplaced and illogical. It's a 'solution' that isn't really a solution to anything. It has never fixed the problem and taken years and years in some cases. Instead of thinking of an alternative way, people just keep doing the same thing over and over again- the same plan of attack. Now I know there are proper precautions in certain areas, but sometimes I feel that security systems and armored cars and large armies with nuclear weapons make us feel 'safe' quite falsely. Back at the September 11th attacks, no one could believe it. Why? Because we trusted the strong, powerful, invincible US Army to protect us from these kinds of things. This trust is misplaced, because no one is invincible except God... no one is powerful except God. Lord, let me trust in You for all things, for my protection.
Purpose
Matthew 25:1-30
"He gave... to each [servant] as much as he could handle... The master answered, 'You did well. You are a good and loyal servant. Because you were loyal with small things, I will let you care for much greater things. Come and share my joy with me.'" (Matthew 25:15, 21)
Such a beautiful verse, which I actually read in church yesterday... what a coincidence. It is a very lovely story in its entirety, but these two parts especially stood out to me this morning. God gives each of us as much as we can handle- a unique purpose designed to meet our gifts and passions and the world's need, as some would put it. And God has used my gifts in so many settings where it has just worked so beautifully, where I have felt of use- Hbg 1st, Lancaster, DR, Guatemala, Brazil. When I think back on those experiences, I know that I must follow where God leads me, as his 'good and loyal servant,' because I have felt so close to God in those times. And I trust that God will reveal His purpose for my life as it unfolds... because after each short moment of service (small things) in MSS (Ministry Summer Service) or a DR Youth Conference, God has given me the opportunity to serve in greater things... a 2 year term of service. Lord, I love these moments serving You, and I pray that You show me how to trust in You and follow Your lead, because I love these moments... serving and sharing in Your joy.
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