Freed

A Thought

2009-01-26T09:04:00.000-08:00

It's always easier to start something - than to see it through to its end.

(case in point - this blog) :)

The Gift of a Clean Conscience

2008-11-10T18:04:00.000-08:00

There are countless gifts which the Lord has bestowed on His children. None so freeing and pure than the clean conscience.

All has been forgiven and the believer is at rest. The saint is pursuing righteousness. He may stumble now and again, but the overriding and default position is in a pursuit of righteousness in Christ.

This is where he can find himself totally free. In the arms of his Savior, forgiven and loved. No longer a slave to that which made him blind.

Lord - thank you for helping your children to see again.

Freedom to Question?

2008-10-21T19:00:00.000-07:00

More known for his side role in Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Ben Stein offers an interesting and fair look into the academic science world with his movie Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed.

He investigates several science educators "expelled" from their job and shunned from the academic world for citing intelligent design or suggesting plausibilities within ID. Stein uncovers a world within academia that is vehemently opposed to the teaching of ID as an alternative to Darwinism.

An interesting discovery Stein makes in his documentary is that the cell Darwin discovered in his time would pale to the cell discovered today. Meaning, the scientific evidence at our disposal today actually sheds light on Darwin's theory - and as a result, begins to poke holes in it.

While many scientists agree that Darwin made valuable contribution to science, a growing number of them are beginning to question his "leap of faith" in trying to determine the "origins of the species" and how he made assumptions on life "progressing".

With the knowledge of irreducibile complexity and further study into the structure of cells, Expelled questions what the real motives might be behind leaders in academia.

Is it to preserve science? Or, to quelch sincere questioning that might undermine a belief system?

Moving Toward a Pain and Risk-free Society

2008-09-23T17:49:00.000-07:00

I can't pretend to know all that has conspired to cause the government's decision to bail-out Wall Street. But, what I can deduct, is that many who risked unresponsibly and failed, may not have to pay the price of their failings.

Today, we can go to a dentist - have a cavity filled and experience no pain. We can go to work, get paid - while sometimes not exerting any real "effort" or toil. We can get married, and after some time, free ourselves from the discomfort of "dealing" with each other and file for divorce.

To be sure - I am not a lover of pain. Nor, do I advocate an aesetic lifestyle. But there is something peculiar when we do not experience the pain of life. When there is no punishment for bad choices or foolish behavior. When we opt for the comfortable all the time, to avoid pain (even when that pain is the means to our growth).

In Acts, we read that Paul went about preaching the idea that "through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God". And we know that our Savior - Jesus Christ, was not immune to suffering or pain.

Should we be above pain? Don't we already know that it's through trials where we have seen the hand of God and felt His presence most keenly?

Lord, help me, so that I do not begrudge my own pains - but through them, I might lean more and more on your saving right hand.

The Heart Gasp

2008-08-31T19:22:00.000-07:00

I was on the bus sitting next to an older woman - and the discussion turned to her love of sailing. She told me how she was once very passionate about sailing - and that everytime she sailed - her heart "gasped", as if in awe.

She relayed to me that she never has that sense anymore. Save for one thing:

"When I look around me, at creation, my heart gasps. It's so beautiful."

To imagine that God's artistry in the outdoors may only be a hint at what he has in store for the new earth.

Wow!

What Does God Desire Most II

2008-08-26T18:17:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be good to get some responses from others on this question. Here are some of the responses:

"He desires that all would be saved."
"He desires that all would love him and obey Him."
"He desires Himself."

Of all these - and I know that one cannot pressume upon God - I think the last one most resonates with what I read in the bible and within my own soul.

While some may pressume it to be arrogant - this is the one desire that only God could maintain and hold - without it being full-of-oneself. Only God could and should desire Himself - most.

What Does God Desire Most?

2008-07-13T10:43:00.000-07:00

This is a big question and one that requires reflection. In my view, it says a lot about your theology - and how you view God.

How would you answer?

Paul Got Annoyed

2008-06-30T09:48:00.001-07:00

In Acts, chapter 16, we read the following story:

As we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by fortune-telling. She followed Paul and us, crying out, "These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation." And this she kept doing for many days. Paul, having become greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, "I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her." And it came out that very hour.

Was it not true what the woman was saying? And why wouldn't Paul like another member of the entourage?

A couple observations.

Being this woman had some type of spirit in her, the way in which she was proclaiming the truth was probably with a tinge of spitefulness. Not of glad or happy proclamation - but more likely of vindictiveness.
Everyone has their "limits" of tolerance. We read that Paul had been putting up with this woman for two days! Can you imagine that? Perhaps what is most amazing is that he put up with it for that long! It was right that Paul finally said, "enough" - and freed the woman.

What can be learned from this episode in the life of Paul? One key point is the name of Jesus Christ has great power. Use it and proclaim it. Another point is that how we speak truth matters greatly. To tell someone that the result of not believing in Christ will result in an eternity in darkness, with pride and spite in our voices will not be received as truth. It will be perceived as hate.

Lord, help us with broken-hearts proclaim your truths - knowing full well that we are benefactors of your grace and not proprietors of it.

7 Things God Has Saved Me From

2008-05-21T19:06:00.000-07:00

Abraham Piper recently wrote a great little list of "10 things we don't mention in worship songs - but that I'm happy God saved me from".

I thought I would do my own:

1. Myself
2. Drugs and alcohol use
3. Teenage fatherhood
4. Good looks
5. Being very popular
6. Being wealthy
7. Belief in another religion

Is this God's Punishment?

2008-05-13T19:56:00.001-07:00

A good - balanced response to the recent catastrophies.

On this Age of Skepticism

2008-03-17T19:24:00.000-07:00

Tim Keller, author of The Reason for God, gives an important and effective talk on skepticism and belief.

HT: Steve McCoy

Reverse Slam

2008-03-03T19:03:00.001-08:00

At a recent church meeting, two men were being voted on to fill an open deacon position. Ballots were issued to the 27 members of the church and very soon after, counted.

"The vote has been tallied, and we have 13 votes for Harold - and 14 for Howard. Close one!"

Howard made his way to the front of the church and faced the congregation.

"I know that we are in a political season right now and there is a lot of slamming of candidates and mud-slinging. Well, I want to do a reverse slam. I want you all to honor Harold. He is truly a man of God. And, he loves you all. Thanks."

Lord, please give us a heart of graciousness when we experience triumph and when we experience loss. Make us humble, and contrite - knowing that all has come from your hand.

Lincoln: A Humble Instrument

2008-02-04T18:45:00.000-08:00

In his 1863 "Proclamation Appointing a National Fast Day", Abraham Lincoln asserted that American's had taken for granted God's kindness: "We have forgotten the gracious Hand which preserved us in peace, and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us; and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own".

Marvin Olasky writes in his article "Pilgrim Politician" (WORLD, Feb 9/16, 2008), that this proclamation "applied the Old Testament pattern - God's faithfulness, man's forgetfulness, God's discipline - to a new people who had become [to quote Lincoln] 'too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us.'"

Lord, help us to not become too proud or deceieved that we could presume you never existed.

Only With God Can We See

2008-01-31T16:25:00.000-08:00

"God is like the sun; you cannot look at it, but without it, you cannot look at anything else."

G.K. Chesterton

The Fixed Point

2007-12-10T19:34:00.000-08:00

Apologist Ravi Zacharias tells this story of a woman who was in her car, stuck in traffic. Bored, the woman looks down and begins reading a newspaper. In no time at all - and out of the corner of her eye - she senses that her car is moving...or, is it the car next to her that is moving? She looks up, disillusioned, and quickly focuses her attention to a light post on the sidewalk - a fixed point. She orientates herself and soon realizes it is the other car which is moving. She sighs, in relief.

When we are at a loss - and we do not know where truth is to be found, or even if it can be found - we must set our focus on Jesus. When chaos surrounds us, and "truth" is no where in sight, Jesus shines brightly. Only He can make a clearing where there is only darkness and fog.

Christ is the compass for a lost world.

Thank you Lord for lighting the way - and showing us Truth.

To Be Commended By God Alone

2007-10-31T19:12:00.000-07:00

In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul writes, "for it is not he who commends himself that is approved, but he whom the Lord commends."

It is one of the most dire temptations we face as christians (let alone, citizens of this world): wanting to receive approval of man over and above the approval of our Father in heaven.

We too often see what praise "gives" to another person. Getting the attention and admiration of others, can land you in the White House, get you a better job, grant you more book sales, or make you popular. The desire for acceptance is a powerful drug and creates unwitting addicts.

Its side effects are real. Compromise. Lack of courage. Pride.

In Christ, we see One who primarily sought to please His Father, by his unashamed ability to confront sinners when others would have wilted - and love sinners would others would have hated. In Jesus, we find our ultimate example of one whom the Lord commended.

"Let us therefore, leaving off all other things, aim exclusively at this --- that we may be approved by God and may be satisfied to have His approbation alone, as it justly ought to be regarded by us as of more value than all the applauses of the whole world." John Calvin

Trusting in the Creator - in all Things

2007-08-29T21:08:00.000-07:00

Here's an amazing video of one man who has every reason to hate and distrust God - but has a sweet trust in his Savior.

HT: RO

A Hate for God

2007-08-15T20:35:00.000-07:00

The man had lived much of his life in a dutiful devotion to God; attending church, helping out at Sunday School, participating in other outside church activities and outreaches. By all outward appearances, his was a life to be modeled.

So it came as a big surprise to all, when - after years of dutiful submission - his life became a trainwreck as he dived into a waste-pit of sin.

Graciously, God did not allow this man to live very long as a slave. He was eventually pulled out of the mud - more needy, and free.

Asked why he plunged into a life of sin the restored and now broken man said, "I had lived my whole life for God, as if He needed me. I thought that if I did enough for God, He would in turn keep my life safe, but stay out of my way. It finally all came to a head after years of bitter disappointment in God for not meeting my expectations and for never having received 'proper' repayment of my 'dutiful' acts. I had finally come to the conclusion that I hated God - and I'd had enough."

Such is the predicament for many dutiful Christians who flip their relationship with the Lord into a transaction, as if the Lord could be bought and manipulated to serve their purposes.

We would do well to remember that it was our Lord and Savior who has done all the needed transactions and we remain - and forever will remain - the beneficiaries of them. We will never repay the Lord. Nor should we try. Our Christian lives will be lived well in a spirit of brokenness and thankfulness to the Giver. Always in thanksgiving for what He did on our behalf, rescuing us from a sure death. With that in view and with our hearts filled to overflowing in thanksgiving, we rejoice, giving praise to our Father - not out of duty - but out of broken-hearted sorrow and joyful submission to our King.

Who has ever given to God, that He should repay him?...for from Him, and through Him and to Him are all things. Lord, help us to keep our relationship with you always on the receiving end of your mercy and love. Your ways are altogether right and true. Your purposes more wise and sure than ours could ever hope to be. Lord, we are your children, desperately in need of You.

Why We Trust in Bridges

2007-08-05T20:06:00.000-07:00

When was the last time you tried to find out if the bridge you are about to cross is structurally sound? Or, for that matter, asked to speak with its builders - to find out if they are trustworthy? Or, tried to find out the last time it had been inspected? Or tuned? (yes, bridges get "tuned")

Why do we put such blind faith in a structure that is so important?

I might assume that most people wouldn't consider their faith in a bridge to be blind. Many would likely give the following reasons for their confidence:

"It has always been there"

"It appears strong"

"It held me the last time I went over it"

"Bridges rarely collapse"

All of these reasons, are experiential. Through repeated use and observation, a bridge proves its faithfulness.

**********
In many respects, Jesus too has proven his trustworthiness.

History presents all men and women everywhere with the personhood of Jesus Christ. We all are witnesses to Christ in the way the Bible speaks of his glory and life of Truth. Never has a life been lived like this one. There is something so intrinsically truthful and real about His life that it beckons us to follow and trust.

Lord, help our unbelieving hearts trust in you alone. Jesus, you are the atoning sacrifice that gives us access to your kingdom and prescence. It is through you alone we have a hope. You are the bridge over which - and in which we cross for sweet fellowship. You took the initiative. Thank you.

True Story of Redemption

2007-07-23T18:49:00.000-07:00

Here's a great story of redemption.

HT: DO

We Must Suffer

2007-06-01T20:22:00.000-07:00

Writer and pastor, Dr. John Piper once told his parishoners (quoting a friend), "I have never learned anything about trusting God from the easy times, only from hard times."

The mark of a freed christian is that he has come to the realization that it is not him who governs, or is soveriegn, or all-powerful. He has been brought low by the sweetness of purifying suffering and pain. He realizes that the void and want is large and profound within his soul and it cannot (and has not) been filled by anything in the world. All things and persons he has enjoyed only serve as echos to that void and cry out for something more meaningful, and more lasting.

It is the true mark of a christian when - at last - he has come to the end of the road (himself) and says, "I'm threw with self-love, man-worshipping and idols - none have satisfied. Give me God."

It is not surprising that the freed person in Christ has been brought to this realization through trial, pain or shortcoming. Suffering seems to be the most poignant reminder to our prideful hearts that we are not as "in control" and worthy of worship as our souls have led us to believe. The biggest killer of us all is not heart disease, but pride.

Pride has a hard time maintaining its hold in our lives, when we are humbled. When, we lose a loved one. When we see the hated and scorned, turn on their perpetrators with love. When we experience a great fall, having risen so high. And when our "functional saviors" fail us, once again.

Lord, help us not to rebuke the sufferings you have ordained for us. But, help us to learn to lean more on you - and to depend on the one who will deliver us one day from all pain; and will turn all sadness into deep, void-filling joy.

Crying for the Lost

2007-05-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

John Fischer writes a great article about the life/ministry of Francis Schaeffer and his "legacy of tears".

Lord, help us to weep for the lost. And then, move us to action, to help bring the blind to sight.

The Rightness of God's Judgment

2007-04-29T19:55:00.000-07:00

In his second inaugural address to the nation, Abraham Lincoln had the following words for his fellow countrymen - who were just coming out of a bloody and fierce Civil War:

"Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman's two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said "the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether."

Pretty shocking stuff, coming from the President of the United States. In essence, Lincoln was assuming in his speech that the Civil War was a punishment to its people for treating one another as "less than" - or unequal.

Lincoln knew the ugliness and vileness inherent in keeping another man in forced subjection. And how it violated the very nature of goodwill and benevolence which should be attributed to all men and woman; black/white/yellow/brown. He knew too - that God would not stand for such evil. And, went as far as to proclaim the war which ensued over its "rightness" as a judgment handed down from God to redeem the wrong which had been done.

Lord, help us to see your judgments as "altogether true and righteous". That may times your judgments - which seem harsh on the onset - end up redeeming and making things new again. You are the Great Redeemer!

Only God is Big Enough

2007-04-18T20:13:00.000-07:00

There is a story which originated from G.K. Chesterton that told of a father and his three children, ages 3, 6 and 9.

One night, as he was going room-to-room putting his kids to bed, he told each - the same story.

"...and then, I got up and walked to the door.." said the father, finishing up the tale to his 3-year-old.

The boy's eyes were large and his mouth wide open.

He finished up the story - and then walked into his 6-year-old daughter's room.

"...and then, I got up and walked to the door.."

The girls eyes were intently fixed on her father.

"..and opened it..."

"Oh no! Watch out!" the daughter exclaimed, terrified.

He finished the story, tucked his daughter in bed and shut off the lights.

Lastly, the father walked into his 9-year-olds bedroom and began to weave his tale.

"...and then, I got up and walked to the door...and opened it..."

The boy smiled.

"...and behind the door...was...a lion!"

The boy's eye lit up and his jaw dropped.

"Oh, wow!" he exclaimed.

**********************
Chesterton's aim of relaying this story was to make an important point: as we get older, our heart seems to need bigger and bigger things to fill it. No longer is it just fulfilled with the big blue ball rolling on the ground. It longs for something more profound.

Our hearts were made to be in awe. And the only thing big enough to fill them is God.

"Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!" May we find our joy in seeking Your endless depths and riches! Only You are big enough to fill our deepest longings, O God!

Freedom as a Covering for Evil

2007-04-15T19:16:00.000-07:00

Peter writes in his first letter of the Bible, "Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil.."

Peter recognized that some free men would use their newfound freedom in Christ as a contriving tool for sin.

Paul too writes about freedom obtained through Christ. In Romans, he writes that many might use their freedom as a means to sin and obtain even more grace (but objected by saying, "let it not be so!")

Both Paul and Peter knew full well, of the endless appetite of the heart toward evil.

Freedom in Christ does not give the Christian a license to self-gratify - but to sacrifice self for the good of others.

Freedom in Christ does not give warrant to more self-love but to more radical love of others.

Freedom in Christ does not provide cover for secret sins - but pushes for the expulsion of evil in the heart and a drive for the pursuit of righteousness.

Let our lives echo Peter's words, "that by doing right, [we] may silence the ignorance of foolish men."

Lord, help us to live as free men. Free men who love and pursue righteousness. Who expose the evil that lies beneath - for the glory of your name - that none should stumble or be "lied to" by our lives lived out for you.

10 Years After

2007-04-06T21:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, was the tenth anniversary of my father's death. It's amazing to think on, because it seemed like it was that - just yesterday.

When I think back about dad - I am filled with precious memories and things that I will take with me for as long as I have memory.

I find it odd, some of the things that come to mind when I think of him...

The way in which he would sit at the kitchen table, off to the side, legs crossed. How he'd wear his pants, hitched way up past his belly. The Hush Puppies. The towel around the neck in the summertime, collar flipped up. His teethy grin. The odd manner in which he would swing a golf club.

What I cherish most - and what I hold on to most is the way in which he lived his life. His was one of peace and diplomacy. His gentle, yet authoritative nature put me at ease. I thought, "if dad is here, everything will be okay."

He lived humbly. He didn't make a lot of money. Didn't seek fame or fortune.

He was devoted to two main things: Jesus first - and family second.

His was not an uncommon life lived amongst the daily grind. Yet there was a peace about him that was uncommon and unwordly.

And, even in his death, that peace endured. On the morning of April 5, 1997, he told my mother, "Jesus is going to take me home today." And so it was fitting that he went to be, where we all belong - back into the arms of our Savior.

Lord, I pray that you were honored in my father's life and death. And, I pray, that you might make all your children shine forth your love and that when we die - your name would be lifted up and not ours.

The Fickle Lover

2007-03-27T21:21:00.000-07:00

In a recent magazine article, author/theologian N.T. Wright was asked about the popularity of the Gospel of Judas, which has given rise to an interest in Gnosticism. His response:

"The Gnostic conspiracy theory says that orthodoxy hushed up the really exciting thing and promoted this boring sterile thing with Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. And of course there's a great lie underneath that. In the second and third centuries, the people being thrown to the lions and burned at the stake and sawed in two were not the ones reading Thomas and Judas and the Gospel of Philip and the Gospel of Mary. They were the ones reading Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Because the empire is perfectly happy with Gnosticism. Gnosticism poses no threat to the empire. Whereas Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John do. It's the church's shame that in the last 200 years, the church has muzzled Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John and turned them into instruments of a controlling, sterile orthodoxy. But the texts themselves are explosive."

Lord, help me to be satisfied in your explosive, unchanging, foundational - and rock-solid truth. Guard my heart - and seal it. Seal it to thy truth above!

Pointing to Jesus

2007-03-18T19:27:00.000-07:00

Reading the Old Testament for any length of time leaves one with the impression that "something has to give". With all the requirements, orders, procedures and laws placed upon the old testament people, how could they possibly fulfill them? And, if they could not, who would complete that which a Holy God had decreed?

In fact the whole of the testament makes way for and demands the entrance of a "redeemer". There needed to be One who could perfectly fulfill the Law - and do that which God had commanded. And, there needed to be One who could appease the wrath which had been stored by the forebearance of God through sins previously committed.

That "redeemer" came in the person of Jesus. All of Scripture proclaims and points to Him.

Without our Redeemer Jesus, we would still be dead and enslaved.

Thank you Lord, for setting your people free!

The Loveliness of Self-Forgetfulness

2007-03-11T18:50:00.000-07:00

"When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick. As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, 'This is a remote place, and it's already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food.' Jesus replied, 'They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.'"

This is one of the most beautiful displays of mercy and self-forgetfulness in our King found in the Bible. Jesus having just been given the news of John's beheading, retreats to a solitary place, only to find a mob of needy people waiting for Him there. What does He do? He shows them compassion.

For me - who sometimes drowns in self-absorption - the picture of Jesus, forgetting about His need to mourn the death of a beloved friend, and instead, reaching out to a needy people is so unworldly.

Jesus had plenty of "reserves" to draw on. He was acting out of the power and through the love of His Father. He knew His mission - and He knew it would soon be over. There was an urgency about everything He did.

Lord, please give us the heart and eyes of Jesus. To see those in need and to forget about ourselves. You have equipped us and given us what we need - we have more than enough "reserves" to draw on, in You. Thank you.

Our Red Badge of Strength

2007-02-28T21:07:00.000-08:00

In his book, "The Red Badge of Courage", Stephen Crane writes about a young soldier in the midst of the Civil War who contemplates whether or not he will have the fortitude to stand up to the enemy and fight - or will he run, and retreat.

Once, while the young soldier walked among soldiers who had been wounded, he became jealous of the way in which they seemed "peculiarly happy".

Crane writes, "he wished that he, too, had a wound, a red badge of courage."

It is true that we all want to stand the test. We want to endure to and not lose hope. We want the prize awaiting those who have not given up - but have pressed on, in future hope.

As christians, we may be encounter various trials. Some of them, we may run from. But we should not lose hope.

"For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison," wrote Paul in his letter to the Corinthians.

We know that Jesus ultimately went before us - enduring our shame and our penalty. He took our wounds. He is our red badge. Our courage.

With Him, we can endure - to the end. With Him, we have a future.

Thank you for saving us Lord!

The Fish and the Shekel

2007-02-18T18:58:00.000-08:00

One day, the apostle Peter was approached by a tax collector. The man asked Peter if Jesus was in fact paying the temple tax. Peter said that he was.

When Peter returned to the place where Jesus was staying, the Lord turned the episode into a teaching lesson and then a great miracle (one that is easily overlooked, if you aren't paying attention).

"What do you think Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth collect customs or poll-tax, from their sons or from strangers?"

"From strangers," was Peter's response.

"Then the sons are exempt. However, so that we do not offend them, go to the sea and throw in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a shekel. Take that and give it to them for you and Me."

What's this? Did Jesus just say to pay the tax - and to find that money in a fish?

Puzzling stuff. Odd for that matter. Yet all the while, vintage Jesus.

Amazing as that miracle was - which no doubt underscored Jesus' soveriegn control over all - He teaches an interesting lesson.

We can clearly see that Jesus was saying this: tax collectors get their money from strangers - not their sons and daughters. While at the same time, a correlation can be made that those who are sons and daughters of the heavenly King (Jesus) are exempt from paying their "tax" (wages of sin is death) through Christ.

But what about this statement?

"However, so that we do not offend them..."

Was Jesus really concerned about offending a tax collector? Was Jesus so concerned about how others felt that he wouldn't confront them with the truth?

Probably not.

But, what he may have been concerned about was removing any obstacle or "tool" of rebuke which may have caused the unbeliever to stumble in their acceptance of Himself as the Son of God. Imagine the whispers in the crowds:

"He is truly amazing. He casts out demons, heals the lame and even forgives sin!..."

"But I heard that He won't pay the temple tax."

"Oh.."

The apostle Paul too tried to remove any stumbling block that an unbeliever might have in hearing the gospel account by his witness. He spent much of his ministry as a tent-maker and paid much of his expenses as he preached from city to city - thereby removing any chance for people to say, "He's only doing it for the money."

Lord, like Paul, help us to remove those "obstacles" which may be hindering our witness. Though we are yet to be perfected, help to keep us above reproach, for your namesake. Thank you.

On Fairness

2007-02-11T19:16:00.001-08:00

One indicator that points to the fact that we all need God, is our inherent desire for things to be equal or fair.

We see some of this in how we demand equality for all and a level playing field for jobs and education.

And yet, we all know that in reality, life is not playing itself out the way we had idealized. Some children die before the age of 2; jobs are oftentimes given to the one who knows the right person - but who may not be the most qualified; a child is being born to an impoverished family - while another, to milllionaires; a healthy man in his prime, suddenly becomes stricken with terminal cancer. The list goes on.

So what does this all mean? And, what can we learn?

The very fact that we all demand fairness and things to be just - and yet they are not that way - leads us to a conclusion that all is not right here. Our inherent imperative is not being met.

We try to make things right. We institute laws which forbid discrimination and unequal hiring practices. We dictate that all are created equal - and thereby deserve fair treatment.

And yet - we fall short. With all our might, we still cannot make it all better.

This will only lead to a resignation or a hope-filled outlook. As christians, who see a Creator which loves and pursues justice, there is hope for an unfair and oftentimes cruel world. A God who redeems and makes all things new, is really our only hope to quell this inherent desire for all things to one day be made right.

Free to Serve and Give

2007-02-02T20:00:00.000-08:00

Jesus is not shy in his promises to reward the faithful. Over 12 times in Matthew alone, Jesus talks about the benefits awaiting those who are obedient.

However, in many of those verses, He makes it a point to address motives.

"So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full."

"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full."

People - set free in Christ - no longer crave the temporal rewards found in the praise of man, personal property or climbing the ladder to the top. Free people seek one thing. The Psalmist said it well:

"One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple."

With eyes fixed on Jesus and doing His will out of the outpouring of Love which He first bestowed on us, we will begin to serve and give and obey. Not so that we may be seen as righteous, but that our grip on this world would be loosened and we would begin to crave after a life with Christ, "...who sees what is done in secret," and rewards.

Justice Demanded

2007-01-20T17:27:00.000-08:00

On a Wednesday evening, 14-year-old Emmett walked into a grocery store on a dare, bought some gum, and then asked the 21-year-old clerk behind the counter out on a date.

While there were many who viewed this act as immature - yet innocent - others viewed it as an act of defiance that needed to be punished.

The teenager, Emmett Till - a black - had just joked with a white woman. In Mississippi.

Three days later, the clerk's husband and a friend took the teenager from his relatives house, and decided to teach him a lesson. After driving him to a riverbank, they pistol-whipped Emmett and saw that he was still defiant. Angered, they told Emmett to take off all his clothes.

"You still as good as I am," asked one of the men.

"Yeah," Emmett replied.

A loud "pop" ripped threw the air and Emmett hit the ground.

Four days later, Emmett's body was found in the river by a couple of boys who were fishing. Around the teenager's neck was a cotton gin fan, tied with barbed wire.

That January - 6 months after the killing - LOOK Magazine published an article with the confession of the two men who had been acquitted of all murder charges just months prior.

No one ever served time for the murder.

*********************
Everything in my being wants to cry out at injustice. Acts of injustice demand justice.

Hebrews 10:30 says, "For we know Him who said, 'Vengence is Mine, I will repay.'...It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God."

These men did not go free. They will be delivered into the hands of the Almighty. And, it will be terrifying.

Lord, guard our hearts from feeling pride at the fact that someone will "get their due" - and cause our hearts to break for those who may meet your wrath head-on. May it cause us to be more winsome and burdened for the lost.

Trusting in Chariots

2007-01-07T16:42:00.000-08:00

Being one who is amazed at the miracle of flight, but not one who relishes being in flight, I am struck at the mental gymastics that I go through prior to entering a flight and during a flight. Some of my thoughts go something like this: "This airline has never had a catostrophic incident - I'll be okay"; "Flying is safer than driving - and so driving is when I should really be scared"; "Would I be scared right now, knowing that at days end, there would be no crashes, or no minor hiccups with this flight?"

After a few of these thoughts, I rest and trust, knowing the odds are likely in my favor.

But, my trust is short-lived - and misplaced. If I continue in these thought patterns, I will have to perform mental cartwheels, every time I fear, distrust, or find myself worrying. I need a firmer foundation.

The Psalmist writes, "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God."

and, "The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge."

It is an indictment on my heart that I take my refuge in chances, in odds and the ingenuity of fellow man - and not my God - my Rock.

When planes lose engines, and bridges fall, when cancer strikes all the bones, and sickness never seems to end - whom will never falter or sway? It is our Lord, our Redeemer, or Stronghold. In what or whom else can we trust?

Lord, give me a heart that trusts in You above all else. In times of plenty and times of want. Thank you.

Deceitfulness of Sin

2006-12-11T20:43:00.000-08:00

Before his conversion, Raymond Lull (considered to be the first missionary to Moslems) led a very adventurous and passions-driven life. Consider the following account of his conversion:

"Hence men who have led a very adventurous life under the pressure of passions, men such as kings, heroes, or adventurers, have often been seen suddenly to change, resort to resignation and penance, and become hermits and monks. To this class belong all genuine accounts of conversion, for instance, that of Raymond Lull, who had long wooed a beautiful woman, was at last admitted to her chamber, and was looking forward to the fulfillment of all his desires, when, opening her dress, she showed him her bosom terribly eaten away with cancer. From that moment, as if he had looked into hell, he was converted; leaving the court of the King of Majorca, he went into the wilderness to do penance." (The World as Will and Representation, Vol. I, § 68)."

Is it not sin's aim to entice, woo and then to trap? When we have finally entered into the sin, we - like Lull - find it to be empty and unsatisfying.

Lord, keep us from the enticement of sin. It promises great reward, but only leads to death.

The Search for Insignificance

2006-11-30T16:39:00.000-08:00

While John the Baptist was baptizing he was approached by his followers with a comment about Jesus:

"Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have testified, behold, He is baptizing and all are coming to Him."

Up to this point, John was getting all the attention. But, now, with Jesus on the scene, his popularity was waning.

John's response to this?

"A man can receive nothing unless it has been given him from heaven. You yourselves are my witnesses that I said, 'I am not the Christ,' but 'I have been sent ahead of Him.'...So this joy of mine has been made full. He must increase, but I must decrease."

What a beautiful picture of humility. Realizing his mission and that it was to be accomplished, John's joy is increased. Even more remarkable about this is that John was becoming a side-show. He was no longer the main event. Jesus - the one prophesized about - had come.

O that I might have the heart of John. His one true aim in life was to make Christ known and then, to get out of the way.

Lord, grant me the head and heart realization that you did not come to make us well-known, but to make Jesus Christ famous - that all the world would look on Him and lift Him up. Thank you.

A Life of No Reserve, No Retreat, and No Regret

2006-11-22T20:17:00.000-08:00

William Borden had a heart for Jesus and for making Him known.

A graduate of Yale and Princeton Seminary, Borden set sail to minister to Muslims in Cairo, Egypt. But, a month after his arrival, he contracted spinal meningitis and died. He was only 25. While at Yale, Borden had been instrumental in one of the largest college christian movements to date. What started out as an early morning prayer meeting with himself and another classmate his freshman year, soon spread into small groups and prayer meetings of over 1000 participants his senior year (at a college of 1300 students).

Borden was not only a catalyst on campus, but outside it as well. One of his friends wrote that he "might often be found in the lower parts of the city at night, on the street, in a cheap lodging house or some restaurant to which he had taken a poor hungry fellow to feed him, seeking to lead men to Christ."

A heir to the Borden Dairy estate, Borden was a millionaire. But he didn't act like one. When asked by a friend why he didn't own a car, Borden replied simply, "I cannot afford it."

Many expressed regret that he was "throwing himself away" as a missionary, when they thought he could do so much more with his life. Apparently, Borden had come to terms with the perishables of wealth, and wanted to invest in something imperishable. By his late teens, his eyes were already wide open to the person of Jesus Christ.

In her biography on Borden, Mary Taylor writes, "Borden not only gave (away) his wealth, but himself, in a way so joyous and natural that it (seemed) a privilege rather than a sacrifice."

Six, poignant words were found in the back of Bordens bible. They were:

No reserve.

No retreat.

No regret.

Lord help us to live as a man who has everything, and lives in such a way that he can not keep it all to himself. Thank you.

On Preaching

2006-11-19T12:37:00.000-08:00

The whole and the aim of preaching today, should exist to display all that God is and all that He is in Christ Jesus. It is an act of worship and exulting in God - alone. Any preaching that fails to meet these ends is not preaching to the glory of God.

When you go to church, is your pastor's proclamations inflaming your love for God? Or, for yourself? Does your pastor use the Word of God as a basis for his proclamations? Or, does your pastor use the Word of God as a contriving tool whereby he manipulates it to his agenda? When you walk away from church, do you love God more? Are you moved to go and spread His fame? Or, are you sent away into more introspection and how you might modify a behavior or "self-improve".

The end of preaching is - at it's root - to paint beautiful pictures of Christ. It is to paint Jesus for all that He is and was. It should exist as a means to conjure up the heart and the mind of Christ followers to go deeper in love with Him.

Preaching is not about helping the Body to love itself more. It already does (love itself).
Preaching is not about prescriptions and of dictating to people what they ought to be doing (most already know).
Preaching is not about moralisms or of self-improvement episodes (the Body can consume that elsewhere).

These are good things. It is good to love yourself. It is good to get direction now and again. It is good to want to improve oneself.

Good preaching takes care of these things while it rightly places the emphasis on Jesus and of His work on the cross. When we are in love with Christ and His ministry - as a by-product - we will love neighbor as we already love ourself. We will reach out to the unreached. We will want to be our best and do everything to the glory of God. It will be a natural causation of our being overfilled and overflowing with love for Christ and namely, by His love for us.

On Obedience and Being Left Out

2006-11-14T15:00:00.000-08:00

Jesus expects obedience:

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful." (John 15:1-2)

Several verses later, Jesus goes on to explain who are the branches (speaking to his followers):

"I am the vine; you are the branches."

This is a weighty statement. And, it makes me tremble. For every christian who does not heed Christ's admonishment to pursue Him and obey, He suggests they will be cut off from Him.

Obedience is not always easy. But, it is good. In the end, the rewards that await the obeying christian far outweight the disobedient. Christ knows the difficulty we face in obeying Him and the fight our flesh puts up.

To His disciples, He says this:

"I tell you the truth, no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times as much in this age and, in the age to come, eternal life."

Jesus again and again, lays out the future that awaits the christian who obeys and follows. It is one full of blessedness and of joy in the "age to come".

As christians, we ought to think hard on this. For those who do not listen to Him and follow - we can be replaced by others who have heeded the call to obey. This is a disconcerning. Do I want someone else to "take my place"? To bear the fruit that I was going to bear?

It's much like the unreluctant worker. When told of his paycheck in the coming weeks, he complains, "it's so hard and takes so much time and..." On and on go the complaints.

Those who obey reap the rewards of obedience and a life lived in the Vine. They see things the disobedient do not see. They are blessed beyond paychecks and nice things. Their hearts are filled to overflowing.

In the end, the fruitful will say, "I gave up nothing - to gain everything."

Lord, help us to obey.

Working Out Our Salvation

2006-11-06T20:29:00.000-08:00

Paul wrote to the Philippian church, "continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling".

For many who see the christian faith as a works-based philosophy and self-improvement program to get right with God, this may sound good.

But in reality, Paul doesn't have a works mentality in mind here. What he was trying to get at is the heart of the believer - and how when God enters that heart, He begins a new work. Growth happens. Love blossoms. Bitterness and envy waste away. Things that you once saw as valuable, you now see as rubbish. Chains are broken.

And most importantly, Christ becomes beautiful.

In Jeremiah, we see a man whom God is at work in:

"But if I say, ‘I will not remember Him or speak anymore in His name,’ then in my heart it becomes like a burning fire shut up in my bones; and I am weary of holding it in, and I cannot endure it”.

Does your heart become weary when you do not proclaim Christ? Does your heart become like a "burning fire, shut up in your bones", when you try to mute the excellencies of God in Christ within your soul?

Freedom in Christ involves a working out our salvation, with fear and trembling. But again, this is not a burdensome thing. "-for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose."

You will do well to work out your salvation now, by thinking on these things (His dying on the cross for you; that you were once lost, and are now found; that He has saved you from the reality of hell; that He has now, sealed you and saved you to Himself; that He is to be prized and is worthy of all affections and value in the universe; and so on). And then - out of that thinking and feeling - go, be and do out of the overflow of His riches and mercies poured out in your own life.

For hearts, burning for Him.

Obstacles to Seeing Christ - Jealousy

2006-10-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

A player on a baseball team just hits a two-run homer. Upon rounding the bases, the player runs to the dugout, and is greeted by enthuasiastic teammates.

"Great hit!

"Sweet slam bro."

The compliments flow easy and there is a glad mood in the dugout. The team is now up by 2 and it's the end of the 8th. It looks like another win.

Over in the corner - away from the excitement - sits a teammate with his arms folded, head shaking. He looks disgusted.

"That guy gets all the breaks. He's so lucky," he mutters to himself.

******************

In Luke, chapter 15, Jesus tells the story of a prodigal son returning home. The prodigal son's brother learns of the grand homecoming and soon becomes angry.

"Look! All these years I've been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends," he laments to his father.

Jealousy is a black cover to our seeing Christ and having freedom. Those who follow Christ need to rid themselves of any envy towards one another. In the body, we all have roles. Some will teach and be well-known, some will teach and be lesser-known; some will encourage and lift up, some will suffer severely for Christ; some will have great success, some will fail over and over.

In the end, we will all stand in glory, beholding our Triumphant Savior. At that moment, we will not be absorbed in covetousness. We - in turn - will await a crown of righteousness bestowed on all who have longed to see Him.

For those who believe on the name of Jesus, jealousy is an irony.

Lord, take this bitter heart and fill it with your sweet mercy. That I might have the heart to love and with fresh eyes, look beyond my covetousness, to the bigger story at hand. Our reward is not to be found here. Our rewards rest with you. Thank you.

Obstacles to Seeing Christ - Bitterness

2006-10-20T18:08:00.000-07:00

Driving down the freeway, the woman looks in her rear-view mirror to see a fast-approaching car. The driver, going several miles over the speed limit, zooms past her and darts into her lane. The woman - perturbed - lets fly several choice words and utters, "Moron. How dare you..." The anger, wells up like a volcano inside her.

*****

An elderly man sits in his comfy chair, watching a re-run of a popular game show. It's been 10 years since he's seen his brother. And if he has his way, it will be a cold day in hell before he sees him again. The man stews with resentment. He's been wronged. His brother should have known better. The bitterness, is eating him alive.

*****

One day, Jesus was approached by Peter.

"Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?"

"I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven," Jesus replied.

Over and over, the demand to forgive one another was proclaimed from the mouth of Christ. Why? Can't we stew over the wrongs; the ill treatment we've received?

On another occassion, Jesus was reclining at the table of a Pharisee. A woman (known for her many sins) got word of Jesus' whereabouts - and overjoyed, takes a gift to Him. She enters the Pharisee's house and proceeds to pour a costly perfume over Jesus' feet. She is weeping.

Jesus is touched by the gesture and tells a disciple who was next to him that this woman is so full of thankfulness that she cannot contain herself. The love for her Savior is overflowing.

"For this reason I say to you, her sins, which are many, have been forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little" (Luke 7:40-50).

Like always, Jesus tries to get at the heart of the matter. The sinner, who played out her depravity to the full has now been redeemed by the blood of Christ. This saint sees her life in the rearview mirror and says, with tears, "I was lost, but have now been found!" Seeing the life she has been saved from and the Savior she has been saved to, gives her joy and a newness of heart.

In this heart, bitterness has no home.

Are You Over Christ?

2006-10-12T15:55:00.000-07:00

It is a sad condition of the heart. That which - at one time - caused great excitement and motivation, now, hardly causes a whimper in the soul. The new, becomes old.

The brand new job, becomes the "daily grind". The car so desired and saved for, becomes rusty and uncared for. The year-long anticipation of a 7-day family trip overseas, becomes a week-long anticipation for home.

We ask and we wonder, "is there anything that can keep our heart's desire's?"

Apparently, the Apostle Paul found something that so transfixed his heart's gaze that he scarcely waned in excitement and anticipation of it. His object of affection was not waning in its newness or joy. What was it?

It was the personhood and reality of Jesus Christ. Why couldn't he get over him?

To Paul, Christ was everything. Out of the blue, Christ rescued Paul from a life of certain destruction. When he finally knew Christ, he also knew the life he had once lived - and it was a wake-up call. With new eyes, he saw the beauty and the glory of Christ. How Christ redeems and renews. How He calls the wayward and sets them on a sure path. He finally saw that life was not a never-ending series of new things we try on and grow out of, but of redemption and newness that could only be found in this Savior.

With new eyes, we too will see some of what Paul saw. We will not grow tired of yet another burden to carry, another day to live, another clock to punch - but we will see that each next moment offers us a chance to live in the newness of life that Christ has set before us, in Him, by His strength. Each "old" and tired thing is redeemed, by Him and through Him. Each new day is a chance to make Christ known in a world that is seeking redemption through tired means.

In Christ, the old, becomes new again.

O Lord, help us to never get over you and your ability to make all things new.

Divine Forgiveness

2006-10-04T21:33:00.000-07:00

The grandfather of two girls brutally assassinated while at school, was asked by a reporter if he had forgiven the gunman who took their lives.

"In my heart, yes," he said.

Apparently, Enos Miller (the grandfather) is crazy. How does a man honestly say that after a gunman ruthlessly walks into a schoolhouse, takes his two grandkids and then snuffs their life out in an instant say that he forgives that man?

There has to be something more to this story. So, we read on.

"Through God's help."

Miller knows something many of us do not. He knows the love of God in Christ Jesus. He also knows that God is all-powerful and omnipotent. He worships a God who is not powerless to save - but powerful to save. He worships a God who reigns in death and life.

He worships a God whom I want to worship.

The love that God has bestowed on those whom He has chosen is a love like none other. It is a love that can shine in the midst of great joy and - often - shines most brightly in times of great darkness.

It is the kind of bold and radical love that calls it's followers to not return hate with more hate, but with love. And, that, is ironic.

Lord, help us in our inability to forgive and to love. Even those whom we find most unloveable and hardest to love - for your namesake O Lord!

Everyone Aches for Jesus

2006-09-27T20:42:00.000-07:00

In one of their more popular songs, Irish rock band U2 proclaims, "and I still haven't found what I'm looking for.."

Peoples hearts and minds are often unknowingly transfixed on Jesus. We hear this in song, we read it in books and we see it in how people live. Until the touch of Jesus awakens our hearts and grabs our hand as we fumble in the dark, we remain blind to what we really need.

It is precisely for this reason that Christians can not look "down on" those who have yet to see Jesus as precious. To do so, would discredit Jesus' saving act on our life and would put us as the boasting initiator. We love, because He first loved us.

Lord, help us to see that all around us your creation aches for you. And, help us - who have been mercifully rescued - to reach out and lend a hand to those yet fumbling about. For your great name, Jesus. Amen.

A Life Aimed at Eternity III

2006-09-20T18:09:00.000-07:00

Knowing your future can make the difference in how you live in the here and now. If you know where your final destination will be, your life will reflect that.

For those who follow Jesus - our destination is in view. It is very hard for the christian to lose all hope when a final destination is set. A fully hopeless christian is like a bird afraid it will die in a fall from a tree - all the while forgetting its wings! And, like that bird, we so often forget that we have Jesus! And, a home with Him.

Oh Lord, help us to remember daily, our final destination!

When Evil Strikes

2006-09-11T18:15:00.000-07:00

In His sermon on the mount, Jesus made a bold declaration about how we ought to respond when evil hits us.

"You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. "

For most of us, these are words which are hard to swallow. Retaliation seems to be in our "blood" (or, I should say - our flesh).

Jesus went on to say something even more profound after this. He said we ought to love our enemies and even pray for them. Wow. Can you do that? Certainly, not on our own.

We hear the words of Christ, but then ask - "is self-defense ever justified? Is it morally right to wage a war? It is ever justified?" Does God then mean for us to avenge evil? Not so fast. Over and over, Christ provides an example of resisting retaliation and gives us the admonition to "wait".

When Peter pulls his sword and cuts the ear of the high priest's servant, he incurs a strong rebuke from our Lord, "Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword (Mt. 26:52)"

And, then he calls those who have been wronged, to wait: "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord" (Rom 12:19).

Lord, kill pride in us. That when we are wronged, we see the throrn pierced brow and the lashes on your back. Nailing you to the cross, was the greatest offense ever committed. And, yet you endured it willingly that you might vindicate your Father's righteousness and as a by-product, offer life, freedom and forgiveness to the same people who killed you. Help our first reaction to be that of love - and not retribution.

(HT to DG)

Jesus Wept

2006-09-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

It's the shortest verse in the bible. But it's profound and gives us a glimpse into the heart of our Savior.

"Jesus wept" (John 11:35).

Having already foretold that Lazarus would rise again, it's likely that Jesus' tears were not just for a man fallen asleep, but for a world stricken with death and sin.

Oh Lord, thank you for the freedom we have in you - and the ability to now say, "o death, where is your sting!?"

The Quiet Life

2006-08-23T19:59:00.000-07:00

My father made a living by driving bus. He received no great commendations, was never on tv, and his income was quite modest. Often, he would wake at 4 or 5 in the morning, read his devotions, and head off to work. He went about his work humbly, and without complaint.

Paul writes to the Thessalonians, "make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business, and work with your hands" (1 Thessalonians 4:11).

It is a freeing thing to know that a janitor sweeping the floors at an insane asylum, for the glory of God, may be a very pleasing sight to the Creator.

Having our chains cut from this world, frees us from the pull of seeking to be made much of by way of great wealth or notoriety.

Our new desires seek to make known the One who cut those chains and bought our freedom.

A Life Aimed at Eternity II

2006-08-15T20:25:00.000-07:00

A rich young man approached Jesus. He had a big question.

"Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?"

Jesus knew this man's heart.

"Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments."

"All these I have kept. What do I still lack," the rich man replied.

He wasn't getting it. But, Jesus knew how to get at the heart of the issue.

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

The man - dejected - went on his way.

John MacArthur says it well: "This young man's most serious spiritual defect was his reluctance to confess his own utter spiritual bankruptcy". Jesus tried to show the man his self-righteousness and that his merits would not commend him to God. But, he wasn't seeing it. His treasure was in his money and hope, in himself.

Shortly after this episode, Jesus turned to His disciples and declared how hard it was for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. In fact, he compared the difficulty to a camel trying to get through an eye of a needle. The disciples couldn't believe it.

This rich man (and many others like him) find their greatest treasure in possessions and in their own self-righteousness. People like this are not bankrupt. They are self-reliant. Ironically, these are not the people Jesus came to save.

Lives aimed at eternity, see their bankrupt life, realize they have nothing to give God, and throw themselves at the Cross of Christ. They find their greatest treasure not in having great wealth and being propped up by it, but in Christ alone - who holds them up before the Father and says, "this one is sick - he is mine, on account of My purifying blood."

Like the apostles and others who have taken up their cross, they see the selling of possessions as a joyful giving up of something they cannot keep for something they cannot lose*.

A Life Aimed at Eternity

2006-08-09T18:18:00.000-07:00

If we take a closer look at the lives of Jesus' apostles, we will learn how to live for eternity.

Why do 13 men (including Paul) live in such a way that all they care about is Christ (1 Cor. 2:2) and are willing to go to great lengths to promote His name (Acts 14:19, Acts 16:22, 2 Cor 11:25, Acts 12:2)?

For one, all men had all been in the presence of Christ. While the 12 hand-picked apostles were given the privilege of being in Christ's company for three years and saw Christ at work, Paul experienced Christ in a radical, life-changing event on the road to Damascus (Acts 22). These men knew the Lord, what He came to do, and realized they needed to tell others about Him.

When you see something beautiful, you usually don't keep it to yourself. You tell others about it. These men could not shut-up. They had to tell others, no matter the cost. Their lives were aimed heavenward.

What freedom it is to live in such a way that ones life aligns itself with one focus: on that which is most valuable. No longer will the fleeting pursuit of riches mean much. Nor, will man's praise. This life will have enormous Christ-enthralled vision and purpose and will be able to do radical, self-forgetting, God-glorifying feats.

These 13 men got it and ignited into flames. Lord, help us to do the same!

Truth Leads to Freedom

2006-08-04T21:13:00.000-07:00

Jesus said, "If you continue in my word, then you are my disciples; And you will know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:31, 32).

It is no surprise, that what the world thought was loving - a philosophy of relativism - has actually led to a worldwide slaughter on freedom. This way of thinking requires shunning of absolutes. When this happens, no one is really free. Only truth can expose the dark and shine a pathway to freedom.

Several years ago, I was confronted by a co-worker. In so many words, he told me that I needed to get my act together on some work-related issues, if I wanted to become the best I could be. It was hard to hear - but after the "pride wounds" had some time to heal, I remember feeling a sense of freedom. Ironically, this hard, cold truth - which at first came across as penetrating and cutting - was a means by which I obtained freedom and was no longer in "bondage".

Jesus was truth. Everywhere He went, He shined. Exposing the dark and making truth glow. As a result of His message of Truth, He was able to lead people to freedom and, as a result, fill them with life-igniting hope.

O Lord, help us to become beacons of truth. Help us to see that the value of truth outweighs our value of acceptance and pride. Help us to accept truth when it comes our way - even if it's hard to swallow. And may we see that covering up truth will only lead to slavery - not freedom.

The Beauty of Christ - II

2006-07-30T20:54:00.000-07:00

In what has been labeled, the "Triumphal Entry", Jesus - the Son of God, Savior of the World - enters Jerusalem riding on a mighty, never-been-riden...donkey.

What's a king doing on a donkey? This was his last hurrah. His final salute. Why not rent a chariot? A few stallions?

No, Jesus specifically chose a colt of a donkey.

"Go into the village opposite you, and immediately as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, on which no one yet has ever sat; untie it and bring it here. If anyone says to you, 'Why are you doing this?' you say, 'The Lord has need of it'; and immediately he will send it back here" (Mark 11:2-3).

Of course, all of this comes to pass just as Jesus proclaims. But, that's nothing new to the disciples. What's ironic is the mode of transportation. Or is it?

Like the washing of His disciples feet, Jesus continues this lowly, humble and servant-minded attitude. He wasn't a wet-noodle. He stood for things. But, even through this act, He was trying to teach his followers something.

Jesus - who came for the sick, the prisoner, the widow, the poor and discarded - clothed Himself in humility. Even extending that lowliness to His transportation choices.

It's all a part of what makes Christ, so beautiful.

O God - do a work in my heart. Make me humble, like Christ. Help me to be amazed at how Christ came and cloaked Himself in lowliness - serving those whom he led - and taking the lashes that should have struck my body.

We also know that someday, He will return in glory. This time, not on a donkey, but on a mighty, white horse, coming to judge and make war on His enemies. Let our humility start at this knowing (Rev. 19:11-16).

For you are the just and the merciful KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. Amen.

The Beauty of Christ - I

2006-07-24T20:28:00.000-07:00

One of the most remarkable events in the earthly life of Jesus took place behind closed doors, in a room with his disciples. It was the twilight of Jesus' ministry - and unbeknownst to them, he was continuing to teach them what it meant to carry your cross...

"Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. So He came to Simon Peter. He said to Him, "Lord, do you wash my feet?" Jesus answered and said to him, "What I do you do not realize now, but you will understand hereafter." (Jn. 13:5-7)

Here was the Son of Man, the "foretold" One, the Savior, King Jesus, on His knees, doing the most lowly act - reserved for servants. This is not how a king acts. He needn't stoop so low as to serve those who should be serving Him? It was a disgrace..

Or was it? Jesus - the epitomy of what a man looks like; of what a true leader looks like - humbled Himself and did the most base of acts. It's utterly amazing.

In this world, we rarely see such selfless, pride-less, acts by our kings and leaders. That is what sets Jesus apart from them. He didn't need the accolades of man. Or, their respect.

His life was to be about the business of His Father: to restore God's righteousness, to redeem His children, and to make such a spark, that His short earthly life still reverberates - some 2000 years later.

The uniqueness and beauty of Christ is like no other.

Foolish of the World to Shame the Mighty

2006-07-19T20:36:00.000-07:00

At first glance, the bible seems to have gotten it wrong.

"The foolish things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty.." reads 1 Corinthians 1:27-29. But, shouldn't it be the mighty will shame the foolish?

For those who love the world - the answer is a resounding "yes!". The mighty will always win. The fittest shall survive. The wise, will show the unwise a thing or two. The glory, belongs to the victor!

Now, if you have been set free from the praise of man and acts of self-aggrandizement, your answer will be a humble "no".

It is by the means of "worldy foolishness" that Christ often achieves his ends. And He does so because it offers Him the most glory.

Christ chose 12 ordinary men, some with backgrounds in fishing and tax collecting. None had a high level of scholarship. Why not chose a governor - a president or a king to join the group? Or, a great athlete...or a fine musician?

He chose 12 ordinary, average, run-of-the-mill, "John Does", because it gave him the greatest chance to make Himself shine. Christ was not in need of great scholars or mathmeticians or wise men. No, Christ needed no counselor. What he needed most were men who were willing, obedient and "sick". None of these men had great levels of amptitude with which they could rely on or boast in. They could not glory in their achievements as a great orator. Nor, could they hold up their intellect as something to be praised.

These were men who would unwittingly radiate Christ. And, they did this by being fallen, and in-need-of-a-savior type men. They made Christ look good - not on account of anything great they did - but because of what Christ had done in and through them.

Just 12, ordinary men. With an extraordinary Savior.

Does Grace Taste Bitter Sometimes?

2006-07-12T21:13:00.000-07:00

Before his brutal death at the hands of a fellow prisoner, mass murderer Jeffrey Dahmer became a Christian. And, by all accounts and several witnesses, his conversion was sincere. God used one faithful woman with a deep conviction that the Blood of the Lamb could extend even to a merciless killer.

At the cross next to Jesus, were two criminals who had been sentenced to death. One of them was repentent: "Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom!" To which Jesus replied, "Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:39-43).

It would seem that on account of the mere acknowledgement of who Christ was, this criminal was saved. He would enter the kingdom of heaven. He was covered by the Blood.

Now, I pose a question. How does this sit with you? Does the thought of Jeffrey Dahmer residing in heaven with you leave a bitter taste in your mouth? Is there something about it that just doesn't taste right? Or does this rescue of a wayward and lost child taste sweet to you? It's a tough one, isn't it?

If you are one who holds your righteousness on a platter before God, on the basis of your church attendence, your giving to the poor, and your obstaining from certain lusts, then you aren't likely to enjoy the saving of an 11th hour saint.

Buried underneath the heart of the journeyed Christian, can reside a deep bitterness at such news. Instead of rejoicing at such a saving act, we relent and complain like the prodigal son's brother.

Oh Lord - help us to rejoice at the news of another brother or sister who you have rescued and let not our hearts grow bitter at your perfect timing.

The Spirit of the Lord = Freedom

2006-07-08T19:13:00.000-07:00

In Paul's second letter to the Corinthians, he writes "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (3:17)

Putting on the Lord Jesus Christ means we (as Christians) enter into a new life. That life does not lead to more slavery of rules or regulations. It leads to freedom. We have already found out that trying to follow the "law" will ultimately lead us to condemnation. The law in and of itself does not save us - it shows us our great need for a savior.

But - oh! - through that Savior there is a great canopy! Cover yourself in Jesus - dive into His great mercies and you will find freedom; not condemnation.

Christ Jesus: The Real Superman

2006-07-05T20:17:00.000-07:00

If you haven’t seen the movie yet, “Superman Returns” is an epic tale of more than just a super-hero sent to save mankind. It is cloaked in Christian imagery and verse. I would highly recommend it, largely due to the fact that it can fuel your love for Christ more because He can do all that Superman does and more. Christ is THE Superman. The amazing and jaw-dropping feats accomplished by the screen character aren’t just fiction. Christ Jesus is more than capable of sending a tsunami packing, stopping a falling jet, or more importantly (and larger) of delivering the world from it’s sin (which the movie character cannot do). (And, there is no kryptonite which can thwart Christ’s hand.)

So when you’re in the theater watching, I hope your love for Christ increases and is inflated. That you will not be directed to glory in another human achievement of movie-making, but that you stare heaven-ward and that your heart overflows with all that Christ is. He is more powerful and greater than our own hearts can conceive.

Hoping and marveling at the True Superman: King Jesus.

Here’s an article about the parallels that are being reported: http://www.suntimes.com/output/movies/sho-sunday-super25-jesu.html

Jesus: Just a good example?

2006-06-28T19:30:00.000-07:00

Starting with the premise that Jesus existed, one must then ask, "is he just another great man to have walked the earth or our saviour?" Let's take a look at his life:

Before Jesus had walked on the scene - he was already being talked about by a man named John (the Baptist) (Luke 3). He was telling of one who would come - and who's "thong" of his sandal, John was unworthy to untie.
Jesus began a ministry, calling men to leave everything - even family / home - to come by his side. These men came willingly and immediate.
He spoke with such authority and with such wisdom, that he drew great crowds wherever he went.
His own presence and popularity drew hatred from those in power (John 11:47-57).
He forgave sin, called people to repentance and healed the sick.
He hung around the remnant of society and those who were hated.
He commited no acts of terror or harm - yet was put upon a cross to die by a crowd of people yelling to crucify him (John 19:6) (All of which he had foretold to his disciples (John 12:27-50).
He lived beautifully: hating sin, loving his enemies, helping those in need - and valuing the most valuable (his Father in heaven).

Yet it doesn't end here. If we were to suddenly end here, Jesus might be seen as just a great example. But he was more than that.

Three days after his horrible death, he rises from the dead - appearing first to women (whose account and testimonies were considered second-rate at the time) and then to his disciples.

Ordinary dead men don't rise to live again. Ordinary men do not cast out demons and bring others back to life. Ordinary men do not forgive sins. Ordinary men do not proclaim they are "one" with God. Ordinary men are not like Jesus.

With only a public life of three short years, His one life created such a stir, such a revival and such fulfilment, that Jesus cannot be deemed, "just a good example". He was and is, the Christ - our Savior.

Self Preservation

2006-06-26T20:07:00.000-07:00

Something that I am most keen of in myself is of commiting self-preservation. It's a sneaky thing because it can be so well justified. Self-preservation has most of its roots in pride and fear. All in all, it's an ugly one.

If you want to see the affects of a cultural shift to more and more self-preservation, it can be seen in different instances. I found one recently in a study that was done which speaks to how more and more people are isolating themselves. The causes of some of this can be linked to more folks using the internet to correspond.

Basically, people seem to be opting for the cleanliness of interacting through the electronic medium. It's easier in many aspects because one doesn't have to deal with the persons odor, or the other person's quirky personality. It's a kind of "disengaged" engagement - a half-hearted approach to relationships which only leaves us more empty and alone.

God has created us for relationships. And, He has properly equipped us to be engaged, be it good or bad. We need not fear interacting with someone who is strange or more powerful or just plain goofy. He has made us for this. And, I don't think He wants us hiding behind a curtain.

Ironically, isolation (which we ultimately think will give us more "safety") only leads to bad things, corporately. The less we know our neighbors - and as our sphere of influence diminishes - our society grows increasingly unsafe. There is no longer a "check" on the new guy moving in next door because no one has bothered to ask his first name - or where he's from. This leads to the (you've heard this before on the news, I'm sure) "He seemed like a good neighbor - but kinda quiet..I didn't think he was capable of__________." scenerio. So, the less we know of one another, the less we are safe.

Now, I hope to take this to heart (Lord help me).

Affirming self or?

2006-06-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

One doesn't need to search very long in the blog world to see what many hold as their highest treasures. Granted, it doesnt mean that just because one person hosts a blog all about their dog, that they hold that creature up as their highest value. But, it does cause one to wonder.

Self-worship holds center stage for much of blogsphere. If we do not see anything or anyone around us as more important and we fail to see ourselves, humbly, as created beings - we will gravitate to holding self at the center of importance.

Praising and worshipping self will not lead to a greater understanding; but only to a dead-end road.

What is most valuable?

2006-06-16T17:13:00.000-07:00

I hope to point to that which is most valuable. We give value to things every day in how we spend our time, our money - in essense - our lives. Whatever a person values most, that is what he or she will likely pursue most. If one puts money as their number one value in life, they will do everything they can to obtain more. And so forth.

My aim and prayer is that I will point to the most valuable entity that there is. And that is God. And with that aim, I hope to show and point the reader to see that everyone ought to (not in a "have to" kind of way, but in a "want to" way) live in such a way that their existence revolves around Him - that which is most valuable above all else.

Everyone wants to be free

2006-06-16T16:41:00.000-07:00

Freedom is a hearts cry of every man and woman. We will go to great lengths to get it - even unto death.

But what does true freedom look like? - and how is it found. I hope to examine this and other central issues related to our human condition here. I appreciate your time.