~At New Year's, we challenge ourselves with resolutions to think about the changes we'd like to make in our lives. It's wonderful to think about those things that don't change- God's constant character... "our Middle C" as Max Lucado puts it.
Unchanging God
Malachi 1:1-4:6 (New book)
"I the Lord do not change." (Malachi 3:6)
Many things in our lives change... and as my friend Brandi would often remind me, this is always either troubling or comforting, depending on where you are at that point. We can be quite uncomfortable with change. This is seen in church through changing hymns and worship styles, different church facilities. But sometimes change is the thing we desire in our prayers. Either way... whether we are at the point of change or the point of desiring constancy, one thing needs to remain in our life... forever, always, all day, every day. God is the center of our life... the one we turn to when things seem unmanageable, unrecognizable, incomprehensible even. God's unchanging character is the comforting home that comforts our souls through the changing years.
Changing Appearance
Proverbs 31:10-31
"Charm can fool you, and beauty can trick you, but a woman who respects the Lord should be praised." (Proverbs 31:30)
God is the same always, but there are other things that people try to put their faith in... one such thing being appearances. And however many times we are told that appearances can be deceiving, the lesson doesn't seem to sink in quite well enough. I love this whole chapter of Proverbs. It actually reminds me of my Baba (grandmother) for two reasons. First, she had a bookmark of this chapter in her Bible which I found after she had died. And also, I really can see her model behavior as a wonderful wife and mother in this verse. As a young girl, you look at magazines and shows and movies, wishing you were the spitting image of all these idolized stars. But charm and beauty fade with time... what remains is the character hidden within each person. What I pray that I may be is a woman who respects the Lord... and I pray that people may see me for that unchanging character hidden within me.
Changing Earth
Revelation 21:1-22:21
"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth." (Revelation 21:1)
On that day that we will someday see in the future, we will see a new heaven and a new earth. After a perfectly beautiful day of admiring and appreciating God's creation, I could be somewhat sad that the earth will change. But I know that the God who created this earth will create an even more beautiful earth... all things new. This reminds me of the resurrection fern I also learned of today which appears to die and wither out. But lo and behold, after a good rain, the fern will be revived again. Everything will be new, except for God that is. The Lord is "the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End" (Revelation 21:6). At the end of this year, it is important to remember both the fact that someday in the future the world as we know it will change... but our Lord will not- not at the beginning or end of any year. Amen, Lord... if it be your will, I will awake to the same You every morning.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Heart of Worship
Answer God
Zechariah 12:10-14:21
"Then they will call on me and I will answer them. I will say, 'You are my people,' and they will say, 'The Lord is our God.'" (Zechariah 13:9)
I truly believe that God is with us and among us, speaking to us still today. Perhaps we just do not take the time to listen for and really hear His word and will for our lives. Worship is one way that we may respond to God's powerful presence in our lives. Right now... as always... I am truly praying to God to help me discern His will for my life... how may I be best of use to further God's kingdom. Right now it still seems a blur, but this I know... in the meantime I can worship the God who has changed my life and given me this desire to follow Him.
Honor God
Psalm 149:6-9
"...God is honored by all who worship him." (Psalm 149:6)
The song goes, "Blessing and honor, glory and power, be unto the ancient of days." Our Lord is so deserving of all of this- all the honor I could ever give. In a society that seems to be losing the value of respect for others daily, it's hard to imagine what honoring God means. To me, it comes back to priorities... making it clear that God is the reason for our decisions, for our motives, for the way we live our lives. Living in a way that would honor our God... and following God's directions as outlined in the Bible. And of course, worship is an all important part of honoring the Lord... a part of our daily lives.
Thank God
Proverbs 31:1-9
"My son, I gave birth to you. You are the son I prayed for." (Proverbs 31:2)
All of the many wonderful parents I know are so thankful for their children, even more so those who have encountering difficulties before giving birth to their precious babies. I know so many parents who serve as wonderful role models... not only in how they raise their children but also in how they worship God with gratitude for these little children. While we may not all have children to be thankful for, we all must agree that we have so many blessings.
When I sit to think, I cannot begin to number them: one more day of life, a beautiful day with gorgeous weather, the beautiful natural surrounding here which God has so wonderfully created, a loving family that has helped me in my growth- spiritual, mental, educational, wonderful friends who have also encouraged me throughout the different stages of my life and so so much more. A great part of my runs is spent thanking God for my ability to enjoy running, the lovely environment and reflecting on the blessings of recent days.
Zechariah 12:10-14:21
"Then they will call on me and I will answer them. I will say, 'You are my people,' and they will say, 'The Lord is our God.'" (Zechariah 13:9)
I truly believe that God is with us and among us, speaking to us still today. Perhaps we just do not take the time to listen for and really hear His word and will for our lives. Worship is one way that we may respond to God's powerful presence in our lives. Right now... as always... I am truly praying to God to help me discern His will for my life... how may I be best of use to further God's kingdom. Right now it still seems a blur, but this I know... in the meantime I can worship the God who has changed my life and given me this desire to follow Him.
Honor God
Psalm 149:6-9
"...God is honored by all who worship him." (Psalm 149:6)
The song goes, "Blessing and honor, glory and power, be unto the ancient of days." Our Lord is so deserving of all of this- all the honor I could ever give. In a society that seems to be losing the value of respect for others daily, it's hard to imagine what honoring God means. To me, it comes back to priorities... making it clear that God is the reason for our decisions, for our motives, for the way we live our lives. Living in a way that would honor our God... and following God's directions as outlined in the Bible. And of course, worship is an all important part of honoring the Lord... a part of our daily lives.
Thank God
Proverbs 31:1-9
"My son, I gave birth to you. You are the son I prayed for." (Proverbs 31:2)
All of the many wonderful parents I know are so thankful for their children, even more so those who have encountering difficulties before giving birth to their precious babies. I know so many parents who serve as wonderful role models... not only in how they raise their children but also in how they worship God with gratitude for these little children. While we may not all have children to be thankful for, we all must agree that we have so many blessings.
When I sit to think, I cannot begin to number them: one more day of life, a beautiful day with gorgeous weather, the beautiful natural surrounding here which God has so wonderfully created, a loving family that has helped me in my growth- spiritual, mental, educational, wonderful friends who have also encouraged me throughout the different stages of my life and so so much more. A great part of my runs is spent thanking God for my ability to enjoy running, the lovely environment and reflecting on the blessings of recent days.
Oh Lord, It's Hard to Be Humble...
~In high school, I clearly remember a trio who sang a song that went, "Oh Lord, it's hard to be humble... when you're perfect in every way." A funny song but sometimes painfully true. While we should not walk around with our faces to the ground, it is important to lift our heads with the knowledge that it is God's strength, salvation and wisdom that makes our lives the way they are.
Strength Comes from God
Zechariah 10:1-12:9
"I will strengthen the people of Judah and save the people of Joseph. I will bring them back, because I care about them. It will be as though I had never left them, because I am the Lord their God, and I will answer them." (Zechariah 10:6)
Like the rainbow after the storm, the Lord promises to be there for us... to strengthen us. Being in the Houston area and seeing some of the effects of the hurricane yesterday in the Galveston area has given me a whole new appreciation for this analogy. Both literal and figurative storms are so destructive, yet sometimes I feel I need them. Sometimes God needs to knock me off my feet for me to recognize that it is God's strength and not my own that takes me through each day and leads me through my life.
Salvation Comes from God
Psalm 149:1-5
"The Lord is pleased with his people; he saves the humble." (Psalm 149:4)
In our culture and society, we tend to think... I'm ok, everything's alright. And while that sort of thinking is grand... and quite in line with my often too optimistic spin on things... we need also to recognize that we ourselves are not as perfect as Jesus calls us to be. For this, we need a Savior. We all need to be saved from something- sins great or small including addictions, habits, sins of omission, etc. Humbly recognizing the fact that we are not enough on our own pleased God and allows us to really appreciate God's saving grace.
Wisdom Comes from God
Proverbs 30:32-33
"If you have been foolish and proud, or if you have planned evil, shut your mouth." (Proverbs 32)
There is a high school here that has proudly posted on its sign "The Best High School in Texas." And while the school seems quite beautiful, I'm wary of this bold announcement. That sets up some pretty high standards. Too many times I end up hastily making bold statements that I later regret. I'd rather be like my namesake Kate Rogers, who always thought very carefully and chose the sweetest most well-planned and humble words. I'm sure that such wisdom came from her humility and surrender to follow Jesus not just in everything she did but also in everything that she said.
Strength Comes from God
Zechariah 10:1-12:9
"I will strengthen the people of Judah and save the people of Joseph. I will bring them back, because I care about them. It will be as though I had never left them, because I am the Lord their God, and I will answer them." (Zechariah 10:6)
Like the rainbow after the storm, the Lord promises to be there for us... to strengthen us. Being in the Houston area and seeing some of the effects of the hurricane yesterday in the Galveston area has given me a whole new appreciation for this analogy. Both literal and figurative storms are so destructive, yet sometimes I feel I need them. Sometimes God needs to knock me off my feet for me to recognize that it is God's strength and not my own that takes me through each day and leads me through my life.
Salvation Comes from God
Psalm 149:1-5
"The Lord is pleased with his people; he saves the humble." (Psalm 149:4)
In our culture and society, we tend to think... I'm ok, everything's alright. And while that sort of thinking is grand... and quite in line with my often too optimistic spin on things... we need also to recognize that we ourselves are not as perfect as Jesus calls us to be. For this, we need a Savior. We all need to be saved from something- sins great or small including addictions, habits, sins of omission, etc. Humbly recognizing the fact that we are not enough on our own pleased God and allows us to really appreciate God's saving grace.
Wisdom Comes from God
Proverbs 30:32-33
"If you have been foolish and proud, or if you have planned evil, shut your mouth." (Proverbs 32)
There is a high school here that has proudly posted on its sign "The Best High School in Texas." And while the school seems quite beautiful, I'm wary of this bold announcement. That sets up some pretty high standards. Too many times I end up hastily making bold statements that I later regret. I'd rather be like my namesake Kate Rogers, who always thought very carefully and chose the sweetest most well-planned and humble words. I'm sure that such wisdom came from her humility and surrender to follow Jesus not just in everything she did but also in everything that she said.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
A Different Kind of King
Gentle
Zechariah 7:1-9:17
"Rejoice greatly, people of Jerusalem! Shout for joy, people of Jerusalem! Your king is coming to you. He does what is right, and he saves. He is gentle and riding on a donkey, on the colt of a donkey. I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the horses from Jerusalem. The bows used in war will be broken. The king will talk to the nations about peace." (Zechariah 9:9-10)
Gentle is probably one of the last things we think of when we think of the word "king." Or I guess today we would think of world leaders, prime ministers or presidents, since kings have gone out of fashion. None of those seem to work well with the descriptor "gentle." Actually, it's not a term that you would use to describe anyone in a position of authority really. Yet, God presents to us a new kind of king with such authority that His position isn't questioned by a gentle character. Most times presidents or principles even coaches feel the need to seem tough in order to keep "the troops" in line. Jesus already has all authority of heaven and earth. There is no power struggle... and no struggle necessary at all. This king will break the weapons of war and have the confidence to preach peace. Lord, I pray for that kind of a world... only made possible as we follow this new king.
Great
Psalm 148:7-14
"Praise the Lord, because he alone is great. He is more wonderful than heaven and earth." (Psalm 148:13)
This verse may seem to contradict our previous verse about the wonder and splendor of the animals and creation. Yet, we need only to recognize that the heaven and earth are wonderful and praise-worthy only for the fact that our Lord God has created them. All of the greatness inherent in nature, in anything really, has come from the Lord. This kind of a king is worthy of ALL praise... nothing else. Our Lord God is one... one great king for one kingdom, which we all await.
Just
Revelation 18:1-24
"Then I heard another voice from heaven saying: 'Come out of that city, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive the disasters that will come to her." (Revelation 18:4)
This king is also just... wanting only to punish those who really merit the correction. As a teacher, we always need to be careful to correct those who need it. Don't reprimand the class who is there about mid-semester attendance. Instead, send emails to those who weren't in class. But, God is wise and just and knows each one of us and our sins. Even more, now that Jesus died for our sins, our punishment was already taken care of by our merciful and gracious new king. Oh King of Creation and King of my heart...
Zechariah 7:1-9:17
"Rejoice greatly, people of Jerusalem! Shout for joy, people of Jerusalem! Your king is coming to you. He does what is right, and he saves. He is gentle and riding on a donkey, on the colt of a donkey. I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the horses from Jerusalem. The bows used in war will be broken. The king will talk to the nations about peace." (Zechariah 9:9-10)
Gentle is probably one of the last things we think of when we think of the word "king." Or I guess today we would think of world leaders, prime ministers or presidents, since kings have gone out of fashion. None of those seem to work well with the descriptor "gentle." Actually, it's not a term that you would use to describe anyone in a position of authority really. Yet, God presents to us a new kind of king with such authority that His position isn't questioned by a gentle character. Most times presidents or principles even coaches feel the need to seem tough in order to keep "the troops" in line. Jesus already has all authority of heaven and earth. There is no power struggle... and no struggle necessary at all. This king will break the weapons of war and have the confidence to preach peace. Lord, I pray for that kind of a world... only made possible as we follow this new king.
Great
Psalm 148:7-14
"Praise the Lord, because he alone is great. He is more wonderful than heaven and earth." (Psalm 148:13)
This verse may seem to contradict our previous verse about the wonder and splendor of the animals and creation. Yet, we need only to recognize that the heaven and earth are wonderful and praise-worthy only for the fact that our Lord God has created them. All of the greatness inherent in nature, in anything really, has come from the Lord. This kind of a king is worthy of ALL praise... nothing else. Our Lord God is one... one great king for one kingdom, which we all await.
Just
Revelation 18:1-24
"Then I heard another voice from heaven saying: 'Come out of that city, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive the disasters that will come to her." (Revelation 18:4)
This king is also just... wanting only to punish those who really merit the correction. As a teacher, we always need to be careful to correct those who need it. Don't reprimand the class who is there about mid-semester attendance. Instead, send emails to those who weren't in class. But, God is wise and just and knows each one of us and our sins. Even more, now that Jesus died for our sins, our punishment was already taken care of by our merciful and gracious new king. Oh King of Creation and King of my heart...
Small is Beautiful
The Earth
Zechariah 4:1-6:15
"The people should not think that small beginnings are unimportant." (Zechariah 4:10)
Zerubbabel had just started on the foundation of the Temple. It's like the start of so many New Year's Resolutions, or at least any that will prosper. That means, the beginning was slow. "Slow and steady wins the race." The idea is familiar to all of us, but in practice it's not very popular. We're a society that's looking for instant gratification. Fast whitening toothpaste. Even faster whitening toothpaste. The fastest whitening toothpaste! It's a crazy race to get there first. The same goes for technology. And many are familiar with the failures of get-rich-quick schemes and crash diets. Start small. Master that, and then move on. Small beginning, like those of Jesus... born in a humble manger, are not unimportant. Similarly, every time you plant a little seed of faith in someone's heart, it's a noble and important... albiet small... start.
The Sky
Psalm 148:1-6
"Praise him, all you shining stars." (Psalm 148:4)
Stars are strange to think about. From our perspective, here on earth, they seem such tiny "diamonds in the sky." Little glimmers of light, it is hard to imagine what these celestial bodies really are- huge spheres of light and energy off in the far beyond. They are really not small at all.
I feel the same way about my favorite Christmas presents this year. Though some may think them quite "small," to me they are the grandest gifts I could ever receive! A Royersford girl lunch gathering, a run by the beach with Carol and Jason and Chird, a song played on the piano by Jason and guitar by Eric, visits with many family friends- time spent with the people I love most! I'm encouraged that my Lord appreciates these gifts as well, recognizing that those they seem small, they are grand. And they are just one more reason to praise my Lord... for the blessing of His children.
The Animals
Proverbs 30:24-28
"There are four things on earth that are small, but they are very wise: Ants are not very strong, but they store up food in the summer. Rock badgers are not very powerful, but they can live among the rocks. Locusts have no king, but they all go forward in formation. Lizards can be caught in the hand, but they are found even in kings' palaces." (Proverbs 30:24-28)
I am so blessed to have traveled to so many different parts of this world and seen so many amazing landscapes and the creatures that inhabit those areas. While in Brazil this past Spring, I developed a special affinity for hummingbirds, thanks very much to the Pat and Dick Shreckhise who came to visit me. We found a lovely little cafe where we were content to spend hours watching and photographing and marveling at the beauty of these amazingly fast and splendidly crafted birds. So many different colors and sizes and well-suited to their needs.
It's wonderful to remember the small beauty of the hummingbird, when I myself feel so small in this world. Like the hummingbrid, I cannot do all things- swim across the ocean or dive tunnel through the ground. Still, as this Sunday school song reminds me, I can do my part.
What can I give Him small as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would give a lamb.
If I were a wiseman, I would do my part.
Yet what can I give Him, I'll give my heart.
Zechariah 4:1-6:15
"The people should not think that small beginnings are unimportant." (Zechariah 4:10)
Zerubbabel had just started on the foundation of the Temple. It's like the start of so many New Year's Resolutions, or at least any that will prosper. That means, the beginning was slow. "Slow and steady wins the race." The idea is familiar to all of us, but in practice it's not very popular. We're a society that's looking for instant gratification. Fast whitening toothpaste. Even faster whitening toothpaste. The fastest whitening toothpaste! It's a crazy race to get there first. The same goes for technology. And many are familiar with the failures of get-rich-quick schemes and crash diets. Start small. Master that, and then move on. Small beginning, like those of Jesus... born in a humble manger, are not unimportant. Similarly, every time you plant a little seed of faith in someone's heart, it's a noble and important... albiet small... start.
The Sky
Psalm 148:1-6
"Praise him, all you shining stars." (Psalm 148:4)
Stars are strange to think about. From our perspective, here on earth, they seem such tiny "diamonds in the sky." Little glimmers of light, it is hard to imagine what these celestial bodies really are- huge spheres of light and energy off in the far beyond. They are really not small at all.
I feel the same way about my favorite Christmas presents this year. Though some may think them quite "small," to me they are the grandest gifts I could ever receive! A Royersford girl lunch gathering, a run by the beach with Carol and Jason and Chird, a song played on the piano by Jason and guitar by Eric, visits with many family friends- time spent with the people I love most! I'm encouraged that my Lord appreciates these gifts as well, recognizing that those they seem small, they are grand. And they are just one more reason to praise my Lord... for the blessing of His children.
The Animals
Proverbs 30:24-28
"There are four things on earth that are small, but they are very wise: Ants are not very strong, but they store up food in the summer. Rock badgers are not very powerful, but they can live among the rocks. Locusts have no king, but they all go forward in formation. Lizards can be caught in the hand, but they are found even in kings' palaces." (Proverbs 30:24-28)
I am so blessed to have traveled to so many different parts of this world and seen so many amazing landscapes and the creatures that inhabit those areas. While in Brazil this past Spring, I developed a special affinity for hummingbirds, thanks very much to the Pat and Dick Shreckhise who came to visit me. We found a lovely little cafe where we were content to spend hours watching and photographing and marveling at the beauty of these amazingly fast and splendidly crafted birds. So many different colors and sizes and well-suited to their needs.
It's wonderful to remember the small beauty of the hummingbird, when I myself feel so small in this world. Like the hummingbrid, I cannot do all things- swim across the ocean or dive tunnel through the ground. Still, as this Sunday school song reminds me, I can do my part.
What can I give Him small as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would give a lamb.
If I were a wiseman, I would do my part.
Yet what can I give Him, I'll give my heart.
Friday, December 26, 2008
He's Here!!!!!
~At this wonderful time of year filled with visits to dearly loved family and friends, it's so wonderful to arrive at a house and hear the exclamation, "They're here!" Such was the case when we arrived at my cousins' house on Christmas Eve. What a beautiful feeling! They've been waiting in anticipation of my arrival just as much I have!!! May I only remember to express my anticipation and joy at the arrival of Jesus' birth, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of Christ's return. This time of year, I must go around the house proclaiming, "He's Here!"
Christ's Life Here
Zechariah 1:1-3:10
"'Shout and be glad, Jerusalem. I am coming, and I will live among you,' says the Lord." (Zechariah 2:10)
One of my favorite songs in Vacation Bible School was always, "Stand Up, Shout Out." Of course, it was a hit, because we were not only allowed but encouraged to shout when we sang/yelled "Shout Out!" Sometimes I agree that we should learn from children's vivacious spirit and exuberant energy- their excitement about the holidays and about Jesus' birthday. This is an exciting time of the year- Christ is here! Christ was born... took human form and lived among us! Shout Out!!!!
Holy Spirit Here
Psalm 147:12-20
"Jerusalem, praise the Lord; Jerusalem, praise your God. He makes your city gates strong and blesses your children inside. He brings peace to your country and fills you with the finest grain. He gives a command to the earth, and it quickly obeys him. He spreads the snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes. He throws down hail like rocks. No one can stand the cold he sends. Then he gives a command, and it melts. He send the breeze, and the waters flow." (Psalm 147:12-18)
Jesus life here on earth is certainly something to shout about, but even more shout-worthy is the fact that the story doesn't end there! It's just the first book in a never-ending series of miracles and journeys and experiences with the Holy Spirit. God's Holy Spirit is alive and working in the world today. God's blessings and guidance are so evident in the world today. I need to constantly remind myself that I am God's servant... following the Holy Spirit's will for my life, especially when you're confronted with the ever popular "What next?" question. I may have my own plans, but I need to always follow God's plan for my life. After all the Lord is the center of my life... right here!
Christ's Return Here
Revelation 16:1-21
"Listen! I will come as a thief comes! Blessed are those who stay awake..." (Revelation 16:15)
Still, the fact that the Holy Spirit is guiding my life in my midst today is not the end of the story. Yet another sequel tells of Christ's return. So, we live out God's love and message for us waiting for that day and unknown hour when once again we can call... "He's Here!" Jesus, show me how to live faithful to you... awake in my heart, soul and mind... totally devoting my life to you.
Christ's Life Here
Zechariah 1:1-3:10
"'Shout and be glad, Jerusalem. I am coming, and I will live among you,' says the Lord." (Zechariah 2:10)
One of my favorite songs in Vacation Bible School was always, "Stand Up, Shout Out." Of course, it was a hit, because we were not only allowed but encouraged to shout when we sang/yelled "Shout Out!" Sometimes I agree that we should learn from children's vivacious spirit and exuberant energy- their excitement about the holidays and about Jesus' birthday. This is an exciting time of the year- Christ is here! Christ was born... took human form and lived among us! Shout Out!!!!
Holy Spirit Here
Psalm 147:12-20
"Jerusalem, praise the Lord; Jerusalem, praise your God. He makes your city gates strong and blesses your children inside. He brings peace to your country and fills you with the finest grain. He gives a command to the earth, and it quickly obeys him. He spreads the snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes. He throws down hail like rocks. No one can stand the cold he sends. Then he gives a command, and it melts. He send the breeze, and the waters flow." (Psalm 147:12-18)
Jesus life here on earth is certainly something to shout about, but even more shout-worthy is the fact that the story doesn't end there! It's just the first book in a never-ending series of miracles and journeys and experiences with the Holy Spirit. God's Holy Spirit is alive and working in the world today. God's blessings and guidance are so evident in the world today. I need to constantly remind myself that I am God's servant... following the Holy Spirit's will for my life, especially when you're confronted with the ever popular "What next?" question. I may have my own plans, but I need to always follow God's plan for my life. After all the Lord is the center of my life... right here!
Christ's Return Here
Revelation 16:1-21
"Listen! I will come as a thief comes! Blessed are those who stay awake..." (Revelation 16:15)
Still, the fact that the Holy Spirit is guiding my life in my midst today is not the end of the story. Yet another sequel tells of Christ's return. So, we live out God's love and message for us waiting for that day and unknown hour when once again we can call... "He's Here!" Jesus, show me how to live faithful to you... awake in my heart, soul and mind... totally devoting my life to you.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
R-E-S-P-E-C-T...
...that's what God desires of me. The dictionary would define respect as a "special regard" for something. Especially on this day of the miracle of miracles... Jesus son who was born to save us from ourselves, we must be in awe and respect for the Lord who does such great and wonderful things. And let us show this respect in action, in soul, and in word.
In Action
Haggai 1:1-2:23 (New book!)
"Then Haggai the prophet spoke the word of the Lord: 'Is it right for you to be living in fancy houses while the Temple is still in ruins?'" (Haggai1:3-4)
This verse is so very poignant, and I'm glad that Haggai speaks up. We can walk around saying that we don't have enough money to give to World Hunger Relief or time to work in a soup kitchen. Yet it's hard to buy that when we spend money on 'fancy houses' or other such items and spend time shopping or watching tv or other even less gainful activities. (I personally was sad to see the parking lot full at several bars that we passed yesterday... on Christmas Eve.) Haggai seems to remind us... first things first. Whatever is first in our hearts must be first on our agenda, in our actions.
In Soul
Psalm 147:7-11
"He is not impressed with the strength of a horse or with human might. The Lord is pleased with those who respect him, with those who trust his love." (Psalm 147:10-11)
I am strong in some ways- strong-willed and my legs must be quite strong since I know that several people would find a 20 mile run quite challenging. However, it's very nice to know that's not the kind of measure God's using. To please God I don't need to be the best athlete... very good to know since I'm quite uncoordinated. (My XC friends at Juniata used to joke about how we were 'rejects' from other sports. Without superior coordination, that left us as runners with lots of will power and determination.) To please God, I need to only be able to commit my soul- my mind and heart to respecting Jesus' holiness. Trust and respect is the perfect Christmas gift for my Lord Jesus. And Lord, I give it all to You!
In Word
Revelation 15:1-8
"Everyone will respect you, Lord, and will honor you. Only you are holy. All the nations will come and worship you because the right things you have done are now made known." (Revelation 15:4)
The angels in Revelation have it right. (They must have earned their wings already.-"It's a Wonderful Life") When we respect Jesus in action and in spirit, we are also motivated to express our reverence for our Lord and Savior in Word. And what a beautiful day to express such as sentiment... with song and through our prayer and relationships with others... praising Jesus today and always with the respect He deserves! Now... to the piano. ;o)
In Action
Haggai 1:1-2:23 (New book!)
"Then Haggai the prophet spoke the word of the Lord: 'Is it right for you to be living in fancy houses while the Temple is still in ruins?'" (Haggai1:3-4)
This verse is so very poignant, and I'm glad that Haggai speaks up. We can walk around saying that we don't have enough money to give to World Hunger Relief or time to work in a soup kitchen. Yet it's hard to buy that when we spend money on 'fancy houses' or other such items and spend time shopping or watching tv or other even less gainful activities. (I personally was sad to see the parking lot full at several bars that we passed yesterday... on Christmas Eve.) Haggai seems to remind us... first things first. Whatever is first in our hearts must be first on our agenda, in our actions.
In Soul
Psalm 147:7-11
"He is not impressed with the strength of a horse or with human might. The Lord is pleased with those who respect him, with those who trust his love." (Psalm 147:10-11)
I am strong in some ways- strong-willed and my legs must be quite strong since I know that several people would find a 20 mile run quite challenging. However, it's very nice to know that's not the kind of measure God's using. To please God I don't need to be the best athlete... very good to know since I'm quite uncoordinated. (My XC friends at Juniata used to joke about how we were 'rejects' from other sports. Without superior coordination, that left us as runners with lots of will power and determination.) To please God, I need to only be able to commit my soul- my mind and heart to respecting Jesus' holiness. Trust and respect is the perfect Christmas gift for my Lord Jesus. And Lord, I give it all to You!
In Word
Revelation 15:1-8
"Everyone will respect you, Lord, and will honor you. Only you are holy. All the nations will come and worship you because the right things you have done are now made known." (Revelation 15:4)
The angels in Revelation have it right. (They must have earned their wings already.-"It's a Wonderful Life") When we respect Jesus in action and in spirit, we are also motivated to express our reverence for our Lord and Savior in Word. And what a beautiful day to express such as sentiment... with song and through our prayer and relationships with others... praising Jesus today and always with the respect He deserves! Now... to the piano. ;o)
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