Advent - What's in a Name?

 

This is how Jesus the Messiah was born. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit. Joseph, to whom she was engaged, was a righteous man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly. As he considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. “Joseph, son of David,” the angel said, “do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All of this occurred to fulfill the Lord’s message through his prophet:

“Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son,

and they will call him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’”

When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded and took Mary as his wife. But he did not have sexual relations with her until her son was born. And Joseph named him Jesus.

(Matthew 1:18-25 NLT)

‘'What's in a name? that which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet'. Of course, many of you will recognize that line from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. In this scene Juliet bemoans Romeo's last name of Montague…her family's sworn enemies.

What is in a name? Actually, everything. Often it is the first piece of information we have about a person. When I first saw Missy I wondered - “Who is this?!” I needed her name!

We hear someone’s name and, whether right or wrong, we form judgments about people very quickly. Don’t believe us, ask someone named Karen…Trump…or Biden.

Judgments on people - based on their names - can lead us in a positive or negative direction. And those first impressions can set the stage for future interactions.

Preceding our text today in the first chapter of Matthew we have a long list of names. A genealogy. Some of those names are hard to pronounce! But, each one meant something
and it was important to Matthew to give you their names. Why? Because they were all leading up to one Name. The “Name above all names.”

Jesus. His name caused immense, emotional reaction in the first century. It still does today.

Some say Jesus as a word of anger. Others use it in a moment of shock. Still others whisper it reverently when overcome with sadness.

Countless people take time each day to ask the Divine to intervene on their behalf. Those times are spoken in faith because they believe that the Name they are asking their requests in - well, he is listening and will respond.

Jesus. His name is derived from the Hebrew Yeshua - better known as Joshua. His name means “God saves.” Now that’s a Name.

As we enter the final few days of celebrating Christmas, traveling here, there and yonder…as we prepare for the new year and whatever it holds…let’s hold tight to that Name - Jesus.

May his name be a blessing on our lips. May it be a reminder of Who we belong to. May it guide us in all of our decisions. May it bring light during the often dark days. May the name of Jesus - bless you and bring peace to your heart.

Because we all have names it is important to remember: God knows you. He knows your name. We even read in Exodus, in speaking to Moses, God says: And the LORD said to Moses, “This very thing that you have spoken I will do, for you have found favor in my sight, and I know you by name,” (Exodus 33:17).

Yet, greater still, is not that God knows our earthly names, but rather we know his Name. Psalm 91:14 states: “Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name.”

Jesus.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all. May the Name of Jesus bless, uphold and guide you through the rest of the days of your life.

Advent - A Season of Joy!

 

Nevertheless, that time of darkness and despair will not go on forever. The land of Zebulun and Naphtali will be humbled, but there will be a time in the future when Galilee of the Gentiles, which lies along the road that runs between the Jordan and the sea, will be filled with glory. 

The people who walk in darkness will see a great light.

For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.

You will enlarge the nation of Israel, and its people will rejoice. They will rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest and like warriors dividing the plunder.

For you will break the yoke of their slavery and lift the heavy burden from their shoulders. You will break the oppressor’s rod, just as you did when you destroyed the army of Midian. The boots of the warrior and the uniforms bloodstained by war will all be burned. They will be fuel for the fire.

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders.

And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen! (Isaiah 9:1-7 NLT)

Joy. What an incredibly powerful three letter word. In a world filled with four letter words - that often show a lack of creativity and happiness - joy is a word we should all endeavor to place in our hearts and vocabulary.

What makes you joyful?

For Missy it would be (in no particular order):
    1.) Sea turtles
    2.) Rocks
    3.) Mexican food
    4.) Sand between her toes
    5.) Warm, sunny days

    6.) Playing the piano
    7.) Board and card games with family and friends
    8.) The University of Kentucky Wildcats Basketball and Football

For Steve it would be (in no particular order):
    1.) TCU Football
    2.) World Cup Futbol (soccer to us Westerners)
    3.) Playing games with family and friends
    4.) Listening to Missy play the piano
    5.) Reading
    6.) Peppermint melts in my coffee
    7.) Teaching, preaching and writing
    

“These are a few of our favorite things…”

Now, you may notice one glaring omission from each of those lists. Perhaps you even wondered out loud - why didn’t they put God on those lists? Where is Jesus? Where is the church? “I thought they were Christians!?” Shouldn’t God be first on the lists?!?!

Actually, God is in every single one of those things that brings us joy. And, He is first.

You see it don’t you? God is the reason for every single thing we enjoy. Every single thing you enjoy. God is the Author of joy and He is writing your story even now - and joy is on every page.

Yes, joy even when we are feeling desperation. Joy when we are sad. Joy when we are frustrated. Joy when we are disappointed. Joy when we are doubtful. Joy when we grieve. Joy when we bid farewell to one another. Joy when our team loses.

As Paul told the church at Philippi - “Be joyful in the LORD always! Again, I say, be joyful!” (Philippians 4:4)

As Peter wrote to those who follow Jesus: “Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very joyful—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world.” (I Peter 4:12&13)

Perhaps Theodore Baker understood as well as anyone when in the 16th century (we think) he penned these lines…

While by the sheep we watched at night, glad tidings brought an angel bright.

There shall be born, so He did say, in Bethlehem a Child today.

There shall the Child lie in a stall, this Child who shall redeem us all.

This gift of God we’ll cherish well, that ever joy our hearts shall fill.

How great our joy! (Great our joy!)

Joy, joy, joy! (Joy, joy, joy!)

Praise we the Lord in heav’n on high! (Praise we the Lord in heav’n on high!)

Indeed, how great our joy!

Advent - A Season of Peace

November 29, 2022

Nevertheless, that time of darkness and despair will not go on forever. The land of Zebulun and Naphtali will be humbled, but there will be a time in the future when Galilee of the Gentiles, which lies along the road that runs between the Jordan and the sea, will be filled with glory. The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine. 

You will enlarge the nation of Israel, and its people will rejoice. They will rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest and like warriors dividing the plunder. 

For you will break the yoke of their slavery and lift the heavy burden from their shoulders. You will break the oppressor’s rod, just as you did when you destroyed the army of Midian. 

The boots of the warrior and the uniforms bloodstained by war will all be burned. They will be fuel for the fire.

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders.

And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. 

The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen! (Isaiah 9:1-7)

For many followers of Jesus, this time of the year is known as Advent. It is a time of expectation and excitement as we celebrate the “coming,” the “arrival,” of Messiah - Jesus of Nazareth…the Son of God. Each week we remember this time of the year by lighting a candle. Four candles in all. With the Christ candle the last one lit as we celebrate his birth.

The first advent candle, from last week, also known as “The Prophet’s Candle” is purple and represents hope. The second advent candle, this week's candle, known as “The Bethlehem Candle” is also purple and represents peace - the peace of Christ which “surpasses all understanding.”

Peace is a central theme of the holy scriptures, and it is the main focus of the second week of Advent. One of the many prophecies about Jesus calls him “the Prince of Peace” as we see in our verses above.

At his birth, when the angels appeared to the shepherds, they concluded their proclamation by saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased,” (Luke 2:14). And some time after that, when Simeon saw baby Jesus in the temple, he thanked God that he could now die in peace for he had seen the Messiah (Luke 2:29-33). Eventually, the “prince of peace” himself would share during his first public message that, “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God,” (Matthew 5:9).

Peace. It’s what the world longs for but cannot give.

Most of you know that my (Steve) Dad recently passed away. He was a person of peace. He desired peace in his heart, his home, his family, his church, his nation. And whether he ever realized it or not, he passed that desire on to me.

The last time I was home and was saying goodbye to him, he gave me a pair of his Skecher’s Shoes. (Sidenote - I love Skecher’s because you don’t have to bend over and tie your shoes…)

The shoes fit me perfectly.

But, they are also really big shoes to fill.

And, mostly, I don’t feel worthy to wear them.

It sort of reminds me of how I “feel” about following in the footsteps of the Master. For the most part I feel unworthy to be called his servant, much less his friend. And I certainly do not feel worthy to "wear his shoes" which made those footsteps.

There was a tremendous book (made into a movie starring Anthony Quinn, Oskar Werner and Sir Laurence Olivier), written by Morris West called, “The Shoes of the Fisherman.” In it, West tells the story of Kiril Lakota, a former Gulag prisoner who is elected Pope and must rise above the Iron Curtain of the former USSR to lead the Catholic Church in dealing with the issues facing their world including an atomic war.

The title, "Shoes of the Fisherman" refers to the papal legacy dating all the way back to the fisherman Peter. In the book, Lakota feels unworthy to “wear” these shoes and stand in the long line of great men of faith, sacrifice and peace.

But walk, he must. Walk in peace.

As we must as well.

Let’s take time this week to recall that the Prince of Peace has come. Jesus is the Author of Peace. He brings a peace the world cannot understand, cannot afford, and absolutely cannot create.

Receive him. Receive his peace. Be at peace. Go forth in peace. Walk in peace.

Blessed are the peacemakers - they truly are God’s children. Are you?

Advent 2022 - A Season of Hope

November 22, 2022

The LORD looks down from heaven and sees the whole human race. From his throne he observes all who live on the earth. He made their hearts, so he understands everything they do. The best-equipped army cannot save a king, nor is great strength enough to save a warrior. Don’t count on your warhorse to give you victory—for all its strength, it cannot save you.

But the LORD watches over those who fear him, those who rely on his unfailing love.

He rescues them from death and keeps them alive in times of famine. We put our hope in the LORD. He is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, for our hope is in you alone.

Psalm 33:13-22

Gary Thomas, wrote an article in Christianity Today many years ago. In it he described an apparently true story that involved a world famous atheist.

Former Vice President George Bush was sent to Russia as the diplomatic representative of the United States Government for the funeral of former Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev. While there, it seems that Bush was deeply moved by a silent protest carried out by Brezhnev's widow.

When it was near the end of the service, she stood motionless by the coffin until seconds before it was closed. Then, just as the soldiers touched the lid, Brezhnev's wife performed an act of great courage and hope; a profound gesture in the midst of everyone there - she reached down and made the sign of the cross on her husband's chest.

There, in the citadel of secular, atheistic power, where God was nowhere to be found, the wife of the man who had run it all hoped that her husband was wrong. She hoped that there was another life. She hoped Jesus was truly the Son of God and that the same Jesus might yet have mercy on her husband. (Gary Thomas, in Christianity Today, October 3, 1994, p. 26.)

She hoped.

Hope - it’s defined this way by the American Heritage Dictionary: a.) To wish for a particular event that one considers possible; b.) to have confidence or trust; c.) to desire and consider possible.

The great G.K. Chesterson put it this way: “Hope means hoping when things are hopeless, or it is no virtue at all...As long as matters are really hopeful, hope is mere flattery or platitude; it is only when everything is hopeless that hope begins to be a strength.”

If there was ever a time of the year we desperately need hope, it is betweenThanksgiving and Christmas. With all of the colors, lights, food, festive gatherings, traditional movies to watch, and carols to sing - we find out that it is also the time of the year when depression, loneliness and sorrow strengthen their grip on humanity. It is a time of utter hopelessness for many. Maybe even you.

And, it is true, tears often accompany hopelessness.

One of our favorite contemplative authors Eugene Peterson says this: “History is lubricated by tears. Prayer may be most prayer when it is accompanied by tears. All these tears are gathered up and absorbed in the tears of Jesus.”

Or as the Psalmist writes: “You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book” (NLT - Psalms 56:8).

So, let the carols be raised. Let the lights twinkle. Let the kids get giddy. Let the coffee be stirred with a peppermint stick (the kind that melts in your mouth). Let the stockings be hung.

And, know this, it’s ok to cry. It’s ok to feel overwhelmed. It’s ok to miss your loved one. It’s ok to wish it was all done and over with and January 2, 2023 was tomorrow.

How do we know this?

Jesus wept.

And, that our friends should give us all hope. The One who will “wipe every tear from our eyes” himself wept. He knew loss. He knew pain. He knew abandonment. 

How comforting that is to those of us who struggle at times emotionally and mentally.

The Advent season is marked by “waiting; expectancy; hoping.” Jesus has indeed come. He is coming again. And the next time, he will not leave us to ourselves but will bring us with him and we will cry no more forever. That is a reason for hope.

And Advent is a not–so-gentle reminder that this is a season of hope. We wish you all a hope-filled holiday season.

Missy and Steve

Lost and Found: You are His Treasure

 

November 15, 2022

“Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let us feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again! He was lost and is found!’ So they began to celebrate,” Luke 15:23-24

"And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that I shall lose none of those He has given Me, but raise them up at the last day," John 6:39

As some of you may know, Missy and I have opened our own online store on Ebay. It’s called Wildcat Wares and Wonders. You can check it out here: Wildcat Wares and Wonders | eBay Stores. (Missy and Ryan did a stellar job creating it!)

The way we are building our business is by finding “treasures” that others have thrown away or have been lost to time. One person’s junk is certainly another’s treasure!

It can be fascinating what you find.

But, it can also be a little depressing and sad when you realize that someone has discarded or cast aside an item that truly meant something to someone at some time.

This past weekend Missy purchased a beautiful vintage pitcher. Gorgeous colors, no chips, and a part of history.

It made its way to our house and I began to wash and clean it up. I took the top off only to find someone’s red and white graduation tassel from 1982 inside the pitcher - and an Honor Society Golden Cord.

Someone’s history had been hidden away and forgotten. (And no, there is no way for us to retrace the steps to find the original owner). Like I said, sad.

Cast aside. Neglected. Hidden away. Forgotten.

Thank God he does not do that to us. To his creation. To his beloved.

In the scriptures above we see that sometimes we do get lost.
    Lost in life.
        Lost in our decisions.
            Lost in life’s often harsh moments.
                Lost on our way.

Yet, we are never truly, completely lost.

We all have a “heavenly Father” who is ever ready to run to us as he does to every wayward child who longs for home.

We all have a “Son of the heavenly Father” who will never lose his grip on us. Even in death - we are not lost. He will remember us. He will lift us up once again.

It is reassuring to know someone remembers you. Remembers what we are going through. Remembers we are only human. Remembers we often get lost - and need someone to come and find us, bring us home, clean us up and feed us.

Perhaps that is why Jesus spends time in Luke 15 talking about:
    The lost sheep. 

        The lost coin. 

            The lost son.

It’s unfortunate but true we mostly focus on what is already found. But, oh the joy we receive when we go out and find that which was lost and bring it home! It’s why in Luke 15 the purpose is not to point out that which was lost, but rather bring to our attention that each thing which was lost (even the son) was eventually found - and the celebrations which followed each return!

And, better than a beautiful multi-colored pitcher, is the fact that we can go and find the people (created in the image of God) who are lost, bring them home and rejoice that “That which was lost has been found! It’s time to celebrate!”

And, one last word: You are his greatest treasure…

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God, Romans 5:8-11

We Vote for Peace!

November 8, 2022

…To whom can I give warning? Who will listen when I speak? Their ears are closed, and they cannot hear. They scorn the word of the LORD. They don’t want to listen at all. So now I am filled with the LORD’s fury. Yes, I am tired of holding it in! “I will pour out my fury on children playing in the streets and on gatherings of young men, on husbands and wives and on those who are old and gray. Their homes will be turned over to their enemies, as will their fields and their wives. For I will raise my powerful fist against the people of this land,” says the LORD. “From the least to the greatest, their lives are ruled by greed. From prophets to priests, they are all frauds. They offer superficial treatments for my people’s mortal wounds. They give assurances of peace when there is no peace. Are they ashamed of their disgusting actions? Not at all—they don’t even know how to blush! Therefore, they will lie among the slaughtered. They will be brought down when I punish them,” says the LORD - Jeremiah 6:10-15 (NLT)

Well, by the time you peruse this week’s offering from the Housewrights you will have undoubtedly voted and are anxiously awaiting the results. Fingers crossed! Whose side will win? Only God knows. And for that, we are glad.

It proves an off-neglected biblical truth - God is in control. Yes, even when your particular brand of politics finds itself in last place.

So, no need to worry! No need to fret.

And may we add - we don’t think Jesus really cares one way or another which animal is in the Whitehouse…

But, he is concerned and even interceding on your behalf. He is ultimately focused on YOU…after all, it’s why he came and sacrificed himself. YOU are what he is speaking to the Father about - even now.

Which is good news! After all, according to a recent study:

“Forty-two percent of America’s young-but-cynical Generation Z are dealing with a mental health condition, a new survey finds. A range of these issues were largely identified during the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis by Harmony Healthcare IT suggests tens of millions of Gen Z young adults started dealing with a mental health problem in the months immediately following the start of the global pandemic in March 2020. The Indiana-based data management company’s survey highlights a staggering percentage of young adults diagnosed with anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) during the pandemic…Twenty percent of the 1,000 Gen Z study participants say they have a regular therapist, 57 percent take regular medication, and 39 percent attend therapy for mental health issues once a week. Gen Zers are also two times more likely than millennials or Gen Xer to report struggling with daily emotional distress issues. More than two in five of the country’s 68 million Gen Zers have a clinically-diagnosed mental health condition. Nine in 10 Gen Z adults diagnosed with mental health issues say they struggle specifically with anxiety. Moreover, eight in 10 say they fight against frequent bouts of depression. 

(42% of Gen Z diagnosed with a mental health condition, survey reveals (studyfinds.org))

And, those are the next generation of leaders, volunteers, surgeons, first responders, ethics professors, and governmental servants. Do we have your attention now?

It never ceases to amaze us how God’s word has something to say about everything. Listen again to Yahweh’s lament over how Judah attempts to handle its problems: “They offer superficial treatments for my people’s mortal wounds. They give assurances of peace when there is no peace,” Jeremiah 6:14.

If there is one thing our society and culture excel at it is this: superficial treatments.

    We give drugs to get people off drugs.
        We send people off to places for healing and spend unimaginable amounts of money.
            We read books upon books to get help - self help section anyone?
                We vote based on our emotions to try to make us happy.
                    We eat Ice Cream by the quart to ease our pain. (Not all of us)
                        We consume inordinate amounts of caffeine. (All of us)

You get it don’t you? Every single thing we do to “help” ourselves get through the day is nothing more than a worn out unsanitized band aid. It doesn’t really help.

The people of God believe in and serve a God of peace. He speaks peace. He is peace. Why are we not focused on that? Why are we not shouting it from the mountain tops? Why are we not whispering it to our hurting neighbors? Why are we not voting for it?

After all - isn’t Jesus - who we claim to love and follow - the Prince of Peace? Doesn’t he promise us his peace as we love God and others? And certainly, Paul understood this when he wrote to the fellowship at Philippi - "…be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." 

We vote for peace…

A Lamb Among Donkeys and Elephants...

November 1, 2022

Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience. Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons - for government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority - Romans 13:1-7

Join us in singing: “It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” NOT!

Political ads are everywhere. Signs cover yards. TV stations sell out to the highest bidders. Your mail now has an extra piece or two with harsh words against another human being. Our radios remind us that some people “can’t be trusted and will destroy America!”

Sigh.

We don’t know about you but it sure would be nice if instead of pointing out someone else’s flaws - as one person sees them - we focused on our compatibilities (what we agree on). George Orwell put it this way: “During times of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act.” Well, “Viva la revolution!” we say!

Speaking of truth - it is important to remember in the midst of these character assassinations and lies from both sides of the duopoly (there’s a two dollar word for you) that Scripture does remind us that we are to honor those who are to serve and lead us as governmental authorities. (Taxes though? Really Paul!?) :)

It’s a hard thing to realize that sometimes those who are placed in authority over us - especially those who we “voted” for, or placed our trust in - abuse that authority for self-promotion, self-gain, or self-power. That’s when it becomes difficult to place our faith in what God has called us to do in obeying authority.

Yet, that is precisely what we must remember - our faith is in God…not people.

Our faith is in God’s plan revealed within his Holy Word and the promises of his Son, Jesus Christ the King.

Ah, the King. Now, there is royalty.

And that is where our true loyalty belongs. To the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Now, we should be invested in elections - hey, we are a constitutional republic after all! Get out there and vote! And do not fear voting for the person you think best represents you and your understanding of what it means to live in a land of “freedom and justice for all.”

Just don’t be too depressed when your person doesn’t win, nor get too upset when they do…and then don’t keep their promises.

And this is where scripture again can help us. The Bible contains many commands to pray for our leaders—national and local…secular and religious…believers and non-believers.

In wisdom and authority, Paul wrote in 1 Timothy 2:1-4, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”

So, what can we do? Pray. Pray. Pray.

Let’s pray for our leaders today. Let’s pray for our leaders’ families. Let’s pray for their health, their well-being, their wisdom, their willingness to serve, and their sacrifices. But, above all, let us bow our knees and lift our heads to heaven and ask the King of kings to bless us with godly leaders, loving authority figures, wise and benevolent overseers, and generous and sacrificial standard-bearers.

After all, God may have created the elephants and the donkeys…but it is the Lamb who deserves our love and admiration, our devotion and loyalty.

All hail the King!

Come Over Here and Help Us!

Then they went from town to town, instructing the believers to follow the decisions made by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem. So the churches were strengthened in their faith and grew larger every day. Next, Paul and Silas traveled through the area of Phrygia and Galatia, because the Holy Spirit had prevented them from preaching the word in the province of Asia at that time. Then coming to the borders of Mysia, they headed north for the province of Bithynia, but again the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to go there. So instead, they went on through Mysia to the seaport of Troas. That night Paul had a vision: A man from Macedonia in northern Greece was standing there, pleading with him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us!” So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there. - Acts 16:4-10

“Come over to Macedonia and help us!” What a powerful and yet oft neglected verse of the New Testament. 

In North America the church of Jesus Christ has taken a real hit. Some of the loss is self-inflicted - other things beyond our control have also stymied us over the past few decades. It’s true and indisputable - the “church” has been losing “members” for decades now. The decline is evident - both numerically and, unfortunately, spiritually.

Yet, one wonders if we should be viewing this from a different perspective.

In other words, is this the opportunity we have been praying for? To quote a teacher from long ago: are “the fields white with harvest?”

We believe they are.

Which is why, after years of praying and wondering, Missy and I are (as an AARP-aged couple no less) answering the call to plant a church. We have heard the call come from “Macedonia:” “Come over here and help us!”

God has spoken clearly to us. His Holy Spirit has been directing and leading us all along the way. We have seen a great need and have a desire to fill it. Answering our “Macedonian call,” Missy and I are moving to Alabama to plant a church on the Eastern Side of Mobile Bay.

And God has already been opening doors for us to walk through.

We would like to take some time to explain to you what God is calling us to do…

First off, this will not be a traditional church plant as you might be thinking. We are looking to focus on only three things:
    Fellowship (lots and lots of time together!)
    Discipleship (spending lots of time doing in depth Bible study and the other spiritual disciplines)
    Service (our love for God should reveal itself in our love for others. Period)

Secondly, we will not be seeking to build a church numerically. We will not be focused on numbers. That is the way of the world. We will not care about numbers. We will care about people.

Also, we will not have a budget. (We know, some of your heads are spinning right now.)There will be no overhead for us. Each week we will take whatever funds are given, and collectively as a group agree to whom/what we will be sending our gifts to. Then we will turn around and immediately be a blessing to someone. 

Furthermore, we will not worry one second about trying something new out...you know, doing something different. We will not be caged by tradition or a "This is the way we have always done it!" mentality. Rather, we will be free to place new wine into new wineskins.

Now. What will be our aim?

We will focus on growing people. We will keep our primary concern on seeing people mature in Christ and growing closer to God. We will invest our time in them - via Bible studies, small group ministries, prayer groups, and service groups.

We will train people to be leaders. If there is a shortage of anything in Christ’s church it is leadership. But, to be a leader of others you must first be a follower of Jesus. Therefore, one of our aims will be to teach others to become leaders.

We will train others to be leaders so they may then go out and serve. We do not want people to just gather - we want to gather so then we will “go.” We desire to take to others what has been given to us.

We will serve together. That’s one thing that we cannot wait to do - Missy and I understood and accepted as co-pastors. Both of us. Together. A team. And, our fellowship will recognize it as well.

And all the while, we will do all things in joy. Fellowship, koinonia, will be a hallmark of who we are and what we do. Think of it this way: lots of food, lots of laughter, lots of sharing, lots of playing games, lots of just hanging out at the local high school activities...fun times!

Some people call what we are going to do “marketplace ministry.” That’s not a bad way of looking at it. We will both be working normal jobs. We will not look to ask people to come to us…we will be going to them. Kind of like Jesus and the disciples in the New Testament.

And maybe that last sentence explains best what God has laid upon our hearts. We want to do what we read and see in the New Testament. We want to be like Jesus. As Paul writes, “Follow me as I follow Christ.” May that be said of us all.

Please be in prayer for us. Please ask God to continue to lead us. Please ask God to anoint us with his Holy Spirit. Please seek for God’s favor to be upon us as we reach out to those he places in our path. May God use us all for his glory…

We Need a Living Faith

 

There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land.

 - Deuteronomy 15:11

Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done. 

- Proverbs 19:17

In a recent Christianity Today article, writer Anthony Baxter related that:

“Churches across the UK are being asked to open their doors this winter as a place of warmth and support for people struggling with the cost of living crisis. Food and energy price rises have sent household bills soaring, leaving many people worried about how they will get through the winter and facing the prospect of choosing between heating or eating. Last month Citizens' Advice forecast that 1 in 4 people will not be able to afford their new energy bills despite the recently announced price cap. Responding to the crisis, the ChurchWorks Commission has launched a new initiative asking churches and community centres to open up as a place of warmth and welcome during the winter months. The 'Warm Welcome' campaign has the support of former prime minister Gordon Brown and 1,000 churches have already signed up.

Mr Brown said, "This crisis goes far beyond politics; this is a moral issue - our responsibilities to our neighbours and in particular to those who have the least and whose needs are the greatest.”

Paul Butler, the Bishop of Durham (Church of England) and Chair of the ChurchWorks Commission said, "Over the last few years, we have seen inspiring and meaningful action from churches across the UK stepping up to help those most vulnerable. Through the Covid-19 pandemic, the Church responded quickly and creatively. Now, during another national crisis, churches and community centres need to once again step up by being places of warm welcome in their localities. As bills increase, even with government support, millions will be affected and unable to afford basics. Churches and community groups are perfectly positioned to help those who need a place of warmth and welcome, but if we are truly going to make an impact on a national level, we need hundreds of groups to pledge their space."

Churches to give a warm welcome this winter as energy prices soar (christiantoday.com)

Now, we know this article is concentrated on the UK. “Why, that’s on the other side of the pond!” you might say. But…

According to recent reports, the National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA) estimates the average American family may pay up to $1,200 more this winter to heat their home…which is notable considering most families are already feeling financially strapped.

What’s more, the 40% of U.S. families that use natural gas to heat their homes could see their winter heating costs increase by 30%, according to NEADA.

Yeah, we are all going to have a tough winter. But, for some, it could be economically catastrophic. It’s why we should remember the words, And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased - Hebrews 13:16.

We all need to be there for one another. We need others to be there for us.

After all, today may be a good day. There may be money in the bank. Electricity in the house. Food in the refrigerator. Health in the home. Your team winning. Happiness in the heart.

But, tomorrow? Well, we don’t know about tomorrow. Neither do you. Therefore, we must remember to care for one another…to love one another. After all, Jesus said, Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” - Luke 6:38.

That’s good news. I care for you. You care for me. We care for one another. It’s Christian.

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. - James 2:14-17

In our lives, Missy and I have seen a lot of Christians not act like Christ. Likewise, we’ve seen a lot of non-Christ followers act like Christ. Things that make you go, “Hmmm.”

This winter - let’s open our hearts and yes our churches to those in need. We know what is coming. We know how to help. But, knowing and doing are two different things. Knowing what Jesus said and doing what Jesus said? Yeah, there’s a difference.

So, it’s going to get cold. What can we (followers of Jesus) do about it?
    1.) Be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit as God speaks to you and directs your path.
    2.) Listen to others. Look at others. You will know if they need help.
    3.) If you need help, crush pride and reach out - give someone else the opportunity to care and love you.
    4.) Don’t say, “I’ll be praying about that.” Do something about that.
    5.) Encourage your religious leaders to create opportunities for the entire fellowship to do something about the physical needs of those in your community.
    6.) Don’t play the blame game for others unfortunate circumstances. You wouldn’t want people blaming you for something that is beyond your control either.

You say you love Jesus? “Go, and do likewise.” Sisters and brothers, the world needs our living faith.

Hope in a Hurricane

 

“When He thunders, the waters in the heavens are in turmoil, and He causes the clouds to rise from the ends of the earth. He makes lightning for the rain and brings the wind from His storehouses” - Jeremiah 10:13

 "...who covers the sky with clouds, prepares rain for the earth and causes grass to grow on the hills…lightning and hail, snow and cloud, stormy wind that executes His command” 

- Psalm 147:8; 148:8

“He unleashes his lightning beneath the whole heaven and sends it to the ends of the earth...“He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth,’ and to the rain shower, ‘Be a mighty downpour...' The breath of God produces ice, and the broad waters become frozen. He loads the clouds with moisture; He scatters his lightning through them. At His direction they swirl around over the face of the whole earth to do whatever He commands them. He brings the clouds to punish men, or to water His earth and show His love” - Job 37:3, 6, 10-13

What do wooly worms, rings around the moon, clouds, cows, pecans, birds, persimmon seeds and aching joints have in common? These are all ways we have tried to predict the weather.

Weather is one of humanity’s greatest conversational topics. This week, however, the weather is more than a mere discussion to overcome awkward silence.

In Florida, and other parts of the East Coast (where we reside), the past few days have been wall to wall coverage of Hurricane Ian - which is just a hair below a Category 5 hurricane.

That’s bad.

Which brings to mind a very important question: does God control the weather? And, if he does, why allow something like a hurricane to develop, devastate and destroy the lives of countless people - who are created in the image of God?

Good questions.

This week is also a reminder that the weather is something people cannot control. Sure, we can “predict” it, but more or less, all we really can do is prepare and respond.

A great analysis of weather from a Christian worldview comes rom apologist, author and theologian Jerry Bridges. In his book “Trusting God: Even When Life Hurts” Bridges writes:

“But God has not walked away from the day-to-day control of His creation. Certainly He has established physical laws by which He governs the forces of nature, but those laws continuously operate according to His sovereign will. A Christian TV meteorologist has determined that there are over 1,400 references to weather terminology in the Bible. Many of these references attribute the outworking of weather directly to the hand of God.”

Even so, perhaps the proper starting point should be NOT “Why does God allow hurricanes” but rather “Why does God NOT leave us during hurricanes?”

Every other god developed via the imagination of humanity demands something from humankind and will only act when appropriately offered various items of sacred worth. Unfortunately, even Christians often act this way: “Here, let me give some extra funds to the church this week and God will help me out of this situation I am in.”

Buying God’s favor? That isn’t biblical. And, it doesn’t work.

The Good News is this: God has placed his people in every area where disasters occur so that he himself is there - his Presence is ever with us (just as Jesus promised when he stated, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age…). God does not leave us during hurricanes.

“Wherever two or more are gathered together in my Name, I will be there in the midst.”

So, why would a loving God allow such terrible things like hurricanes to happen? It is a relevant question. After all, these events cause massive destruction and even death.

Well, the answer is not so simple nor is it completely understandable by our limited human thinking. First off, we must remember that God doesn’t promise us a life free of problems. Some things just happen. There is no rhyme or reason. Perhaps they are a direct consequence of sin. Maybe not. Either way, life happens.

Secondly, we must remember that our Savior promises he’ll never leave us if we put our trust in him. After all, it was he who stated: “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” - John 16:33.

Thirdly, it’s imperative that - when faced with traumatic moments in life - you hold tightly to the promise of eternal life with Him in heaven, where no suffering of any kind will be allowed to affect you. “There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain” (Revelation 21:4).

God’s design for humankind isn’t for you or your loved ones to suffer. Rather he loves you and wants to be there for you through the worst parts of life. Yes, there can be hope in a hurricane.

“Strength for today, and bright hope for tomorrow - blessings all mine, with 10,000 beside..”

Love Conquers Fear

 

There is none who understands, there is none who seeks for God - Romans 3:11

For the heart of this people has become dull - with their ears they scarcely hear and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise, they would see with their eyes, hear with their ears, and understand with their heart and return, and I would heal them’ - Matthew 13:15

Little Johnny was in the kitchen as his mother made supper. She asked him to go into the pantry and get her a can of tomato soup. But, Johnny didn't want to go. He stopped and looked straight into his mom’s eyes: "It's dark in there and I'm scared to go in there all alone," he said. She asked again, yet he still persisted that he not go in there alone. Finally she said, "It's okay, Johnny, Jesus will be in there with you."

Filled with a glimmer of courage Johnny walked hesitantly to the pantry door and slowly opened it. He peeked inside and saw it was dark. With his voice barely above a whisper, Johnny said: "Jesus, if you're in there, would you mind handing me a can of tomato soup?"

Fear. It’s not a laughing matter.

Fear is so prevalent nowadays we have had to develop new terminology to describe fear. Things like peladophobia: fear of baldness and bald people. Aerophobia: fear of drafts. Porphyrophobia: fear of the color purple. Chaetophobia: fear of hairy people. Levophobia: fear of objects on the left side of the body. Dextrophobia: fear of objects on the right side of the body. Auroraphobia: fear of the northern lights. Calyprophobia: fear of obscure meanings. Thalassophobia: fear of being seated. Stabisbasiphobia: fear of standing and walking. Odontophobia: fear of teeth. Graphophobia: fear of writing in public. Phobophobia: fear of being afraid.

And of course, sermonophobia - fear of a sermon going too long…ok, we made that up.

What are you fearful of? What causes you to freeze up? What gives you the heebie jeebies?

If you read the Psalms you find that time and time again David wrestled with fear. In the Gospel of Mark you read about a young man who ran away naked out of the Garden of Gethsemane. And, of course, in the book of Acts you read about the sons of Sceva who faced off against evil and were beaten up and ran away.

Yes, fear is found throughout the Bible.

But, at the same time, fear does not have the final say. In this life or the next.

The Word of God reminds us: 

    1.) “Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world” - I John 4:4

    2.) “What shall we say in response to all of these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?” - Romans 8:31

    3.) “...because everyone who is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world: our faith” - I John 5:4
    4.) “...the battle belongs to the LORD…” - I Chronicles 5:22
    5.) “The LORD is on my side; I will not be afraid. What can a person do to me?” - Psalms 118:6.
    6.) “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My right hand of righteousness” - Isaiah 41:10
    7.) “So do not be afraid; you are worth more than the sparrows…” - Matthew 10:31

Now, the Bible is just a collection of books, thoughts, wisdom, history, songs, prophecy, and the sayings of a homeless, wandering Rabbi - unless you apply them to your life. If you place your faith (trust) in the Bible as the word of God then they become more than words. They give life. They become life.

Unfortunately, people do not read the Bible anymore, unless they are facing a crisis. They are afraid and they have nowhere else to turn. Then, they may crack open that book covered in dust. That leads to a life of fear.

We live in a culture that is based on fear. The news, social media, political parties, businesses - they all feed on people’s fears. Give people something to be scared about and then offer them the solution. That is how they control you. That is how the world operates.

God does not operate in fear. As a matter of fact, all of the teaching, preaching and shouting about hell and damnation - is nothing more than a ploy by people who want to “scare” people into heaven or control their behavior. 

Sure, there are words in the Holy Scriptures about judgment upon sin and those who refuse grace and mercy. Judgment on sin is coming.

That said, God’s love destroying our fear is much more prevalent and powerful in bringing people into God’s kingdom.

After all, it’s why we remember Jeremiah 31:3, “...I have loved you with an everlasting love.”

It’s why we repeat the words of our Savior: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son; so that whoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world but that the world through him might be saved.”

It’s also why we close this week’s note out with these words:

“All who declare that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God. We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world. Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love. We love each other because he loved us first,” - I John 4:15-19.

LOVE CONQUERS FEAR

Spiritual Health without Pills!

 

Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Pray for us, too, that God will give us many opportunities to speak about his mysterious plan concerning Christ. That is why I am here in chains. Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should…Tychicus will give you a full report about how I am getting along. He is a beloved brother and faithful helper who serves with me in the Lord’s work. I have sent him to you for this very purpose—to let you know how we are doing and to encourage you. I am also sending Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, one of your own people. He and Tychicus will tell you everything that’s happening here.

Aristarchus, who is in prison with me, sends you his greetings, and so does Mark, Barnabas’s cousin. As you were instructed before, make Mark welcome if he comes your way. Jesus (the one we call Justus) also sends his greetings. These are the only Jewish believers among my co-workers; they are working with me here for the Kingdom of God. And what a comfort they have been!

Epaphras, a member of your own fellowship and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you his greetings. He always prays earnestly for you, asking God to make you strong and perfect, fully confident that you are following the whole will of God. I can assure you that he prays hard for you and also for the believers in Laodicea and Hierapolis.

Luke, the beloved doctor, sends his greetings, and so does Demas. Please give my greetings to our brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church that meets in her house - Colossians 4:2-4; 7- 15 (NLT)

As we get older physically it should be expected that we grow spiritually. And while physical health may decrease as our birthdays increase, our spiritual health should continually increase. Sure, we may eat more oatmeal and fiber to offset certain bodily issues or rub a little more Tiger Balm on our joints and muscles…but the most vital concern of getting older must be our spiritual well being.

We may get that 55+ discount but the real issue is this: are we maturing in the faith?

In his letter to the church at Colossae Paul lists several names. People who are important to Paul, important to Christ, important to his kingdom. Why are they important? They are mature.

And if we are not growing or maturing? We are contributing to the deteriorating health of his church. That’s something we believe none of us want to be guilty of.

Therefore, what does it take to grow spiritually? Bible.org has a seven step suggestion we would like to share with you: What Does It Take To Grow? | Bible.org
  

    1. In order to grow we need to eat—The Bible
    2. In order to grow we need to breathe—Prayer
    3. In order to grow we need good spiritual hygiene—Confession
    4. In order to grow we need a caring family—Fellowship
    5. In order to grow we need regular exercise—Service
    6. In order to grow we need protection—Holiness
    7. In order to grow we need to give—Stewardship

That is a list we all should place somewhere in order for us to see it daily. No matter our age we all need to be growing in our faith…without having to add another pill to our pillbox…

The author of Hebrews understood this. He writes in chapter 6: So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God. You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding (Hebrews 6:1-3).

Did you notice the wording? “Let us go on…become mature…we will move forward…”

None of that just happens. It isn’t automatic. In other words, you don’t just believe on Christ Jesus and, “BOOM!” you’re a spiritual giant. It takes time and effort. It takes making mistakes, confession and going at it again. As Peter writes, But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (2 Peter 3:18).

The English poet, Alexander Pope, wrote, “As the twig is bent, so grows the tree.” When new trees are planted it’s best to put stakes into the ground beside the tree. The stakes are there for a purpose—to train the tree to grow straight and tall.

Those stakes work great when they are put in place when the tree is first planted. That said, if crooked growth has been allowed to develop for several years, stakes will not be effective.

This is why a young Christian should be modeled and taught the spiritual disciplines. We do great harm to new Christians when we fail to share with them the need for Bible reading, prayer, confession, fellowship, service, holiness and stewardship. If they don’t do these things they are setting themselves up for failure, spiritual immaturity and grief.

If however, we set the stakes up from the beginning, those “trees” will go straight and strong.

After all, the very first Psalm reminds us: Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take  or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,  and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.

Socks and Sympathy

Now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. Jesus answered, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem?

I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” - Luke 13:1-5

This past weekend Missy’s family gathered all together at Fort Boonesborough State Park in Winchester, Kentucky. This is something they have done for years during the Labor Day weekend - and boy, is camping “labor!”

I (Steve) drove back to North Carolina on Saturday for worship on Sunday. Sunday, I turned right around and drove back to a wet and muddy Kentucky.

Along the way I drove through far Eastern Kentucky and parts of the Appalachian Mountains. The drive took me through Wolfe, Lee, Breathitt, Perry and Letcher counties. These were a few of the counties utterly devastated by recent flooding.

One of the horrific images which shall be forever lodged in my mind as I was driving by Lost Creek on Ky 15 - just a few miles outside of Jackson - was the sight of bedding and clothing…15-25 ft in the air clinging to the branches of trees.

The creek, which has subsided, was gently rolling along next to the road - all while sheets, blankets, shirts and even socks were hanging from the branches directly above.

Homes, which had been removed from their foundations, were wrapped around trees, some even upside down; cars were littered across the creek. Still mourning and homeless families were standing silently or picking through rubbish trying to salvage anything from a life which no longer exists for them.

It left you feeling helpless. It made you ask, “God, where were you when this happened?”

In our scripture today we see where Jesus brings up two horrific and unfortunate events. Some had apparently been blaming the victims for what happened to them. Sound familiar?

Yet, the truth is this: things just sometimes happen. Life happens.

There is no explaining it. There is no comfort. There is only brokenness.

It is at this point that a lot of Christians - including those who serve as ministers or are in leadership positions - give only pat answers like, “I am praying for you.” Or, even worse - in the case of those impacted by the floods - “Well, they shouldn’t live by a creek…”

At best, we know that people say these things only because they don’t know what else to say. They are at a loss for words. At worst, they actually think that way and consider themselves better people than others.

Jesus, who we are called to follow, gives us a couple of questions to consider before we begin pronouncing judgment on people who are or have experienced a horrible life moment:“Do you think that these…were worse sinners? Do you think they were more guilty than all the others?”

Of course, in our feeble and self-preserving ways, we are constantly comparing ourselves with others - you know, trying to place ourselves in a better light. What better way to do that than to think others are “worse” than us.

Perhaps no one truly understood this better than Saul/Paul of Tarsus. I Timothy 1:15 has him openly declaring, “I am the chief of sinners.” The NET version pounds it home: “I am the worst of them!”

If each of us viewed ourselves from this lens there would be no need to judge another. No need to blame someone else. No necessity laid upon us to compare ourselves with anyone.

Perhaps the next time we witness something terrible befall someone the first response we should have is one of empathy. Of understanding. Of a broken heart that immediately goes to God in prayer for that person and that situation.

British statesman and financier Cecil Rhodes, whose fortune was used to endow the world-famous Rhodes Scholarships, was a stickler for correct dress--but apparently not at the expense of someone else's feelings.

A young man invited to dine with Rhodes arrived by train and had to go directly to Rhodes's home in his travel-stained clothes. Once there he was appalled to find the other guests already assembled, wearing full evening dress.

After what seemed a long time Rhodes appeared, in a shabby old blue suit. Later the young man learned that his host had been dressed in evening clothes, but put on the old suit when he heard of his young guest's dilemma.

What about you? Is there anyone you know who needs your empathy? Your sympathy? Your understanding? Your compassion?

After all, isn’t that what Jesus gave us when “While we were still sinning Christ died for us”?

The Foundation of Forgiveness

 August 30, 2022

But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.

“When you pray, don’t babble on and on as the Gentiles do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again. Don’t be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him! Pray like this:

Our Father in heaven, may your Name be kept holy.

May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one.

“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Matthew 6:6-14 (NLT)

There’s been a lot of talk about forgiveness recently. Primarily, financial loan forgiveness in the billion-dollar higher education industry. This written offering will not tackle that issue.

What we do want to focus on is the term forgiveness. (Seems to be something a lot of forgiven prople have forgotten about...) It’s something we all want to take effect in our own lives but often redact from others. After all, to err is human, but to forgive - that’s out of the question!

In our text this week we see that forgiveness is the “bullseye” of this section of the Sermon on the Mount. Let’s take a quick look at this wonderful word.

The original word in Greek is ἀφίημι - pronounced af-ee'-ay-mee. It is properly defined as meaning “to send away, leave alone, permit.” If we were to do a word study of it we would find that aphíēmi is a compound word from apó, "away from" and hiēmi, "send.” Put that together and we have - to send away; release (discharge).

Literally, forgiveness means to release or discharge someone from something.

In Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance we find that "to forgive" is to send; to send forth; to cry, forsake, lay aside, leave, let alone, let be, let go, let have, omit, put away, send away, remit, suffer, yield up.

That’s a whole lot more than we bargained for huh?

When we speak of forgiveness it can be a tough mental exercise. Why? Because, when we look at the concept of forgiveness and then employ it in our lives, we have to do a quick (ok, sometimes long) inventory of what someone else has done to us. And that is exhausting.

Sure, it may make you feel good for a few moments to rant and rave about someone else’s shortcomings. It may give you a brief interlude of satisfaction to let someone know how you feel about what they said or did, or didn’t say or do. You might even feel a sense of revenge when you are able to hold power and sway over someone - simply by not forgiving them.

Thank God, Jesus doesn’t think or act like us. Nor should his followers.

Followers of Jesus should be committed to a life of releasing forgiveness into the lives of others. John Stott tells the story about Marghanita Laski, a well known secular humanist and writer. Not long before she died in 1988, in a moment of surprising candor on television, she said, "What I envy most about you Christians is your forgiveness; I have nobody to forgive me." Are you somebody who is willing to forgive others?

Followers of Jesus should be first in line to offer forgiveness. There's a story of a Spanish father and son who had become estranged. The son ran away, and the father set off to find him. He searched for months to no avail. Finally, in a last desperate effort to find him, the father put an ad in a Madrid newspaper. The ad read: Dear Paco, meet me in front of this newspaper office at noon on Saturday. All is forgiven. I love you. Your Father. On Saturday 800 Pacos showed up, looking for forgiveness and love from their fathers. Are you willing to not give up on those who have hurt and dissappointed you and offer forgiveness?

Followers of Jesus should be the greatest examples of releasing people from the prison of guilt. Karl Menninger, the famed psychiatrist, once said that if he could convince the patients in psychiatric hospitals that their sins were forgiven, 75 percent of them could walk out the next day! Are you willing to forgive so that another may be whole?

Followers of Jesus should be willing to forgive themselves. In a dream, Martin Luther found himself being attacked by Satan. The devil unrolled a long scroll containing a list of Luther's sins, and held it before him. On reaching the end of the scroll Luther asked the devil, "Is that all?" "No!" came the abrupt and loud reply. A second scroll was thrust in front of him. Then, after a second came a third! But now the devil had no more. "You've forgotten something," Luther exclaimed with a barely noticeable smile. "Quickly write on each of them, 'The blood of Jesus Christ God's son cleanses us from all sins.'" Are you willing to forgive yourself the way Jesus forgives you?

It really is all about forgiveness. It is the foundation to everything. Otherwise, why did Paul write to the church in Romans 5:7-9: "Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Therefore, since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from wrath through Him!"

So, the question really is simple: how strong is your foundation?

We've Got it All Wrong

August 24, 2022

And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed about by the waves and carried around by every wind of teaching and by the clever cunning of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head. From Him the whole body, fitted and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love through the work of each individual part. - Ephesians 4:11-16

In those days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Grecian Jews among them began to grumble against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve summoned all the disciples and said, “It is unacceptable for us to neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables. Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will appoint this responsibility to them and will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word. - Acts 6:1-4

Ok. Go back and read the above scriptures one more time and then come back.

This week we read something that really caught our attention. Hoping it will spur prayerful thought and consideration, while also knowing it may cause a firestorm of responses, we wanted to share it with you and hear what you think.

Bill Tenney-Brittain is one of North America’s most trusted church advisers. On his blog, The Effective Church Group, he posted an article about the five tasks of the lead pastor. It’s a quick-read article but at the end of it he posts:

Do you notice tasks that aren’t there? The first comment we hear from many congregations is, “But what about us? What about pastoral care and hospital visitation and shut-in communion and …” Please re-read Ephesians 4:11–13 – the pastor equips the saints for member care as well as other ministries. Need another example? Luke 15:3–7 tells the story of the good shepherd. In that parable, the shepherd literally abandons the ninety-nine and leaves them to look after themselves while the shepherd takes on the task of reaching the lost. Is this not exactly what we see in the book of Acts? The Apostles spent their time preaching in the public square, in the synagogues, and often in prison…rather than doing member care. Effective, faithful, and sustainable churches today grow because the Lead Pastors have the margins to engage in life transforming ministries like evangelism and discipleship. They lead well-equipped teams of ministers, sometimes called church members, to do the work and ministry and mission of the church. And when they do, they not only accomplish so much more … they have time to be great spouses, parents, neighbors, and spiritually grounded disciples of Jesus Christ.

(The Effective Church Group – The Five Tasks of the Lead Pastor)

It is a truth that most churches have a guide-line or list of expectations of what their pastor is supposed to do. Why is this? Because the pastor is usually being interviewed and hired for a job. A job that has unfortunately become a business with a budget, meetings, and facility maintenance.

But, if we were to re-read (or actually for the first time read) God’s Holy Word we would find that we have turned upside down what was handed to us over 2,000 years ago.

I (Steve) am writing this early on a Wednesday morning, while sitting in the front row of the sanctuary, surrounded by red carpet, a white pulpit and communion table, and rows of stained glass. Why? Because “Pastors need to have office hours…”

Well, if the pandemic and near utter collapse of the world’s economy has taught us anything, you can do your “job” without walls.

Funny thing - do you know where Missy and I do most of our pastoral care, evangelism and discipleship - outside the walls of the church. In real life. In homes. At the grocery store. In the marketplace.

Do you want to know why the church in North America has decreased so dramatically? Do you really want to know why North America is a post-Christian nation? Hint: it ain’t COVID…

It’s because we’ve got it all wrong. We’ve done it all wrong.

We have allowed the world to tell the church how to be successful rather than follow Jesus’ command for the church to be faithful.

The pastor/pastoral couple is called by God to serve Him and His people. Missy and I serve by training those entrusted to us to do the work of the kingdom. We spend our time wisely praying, studying, seeking God’s wisdom and then sharing what is revealed to us with the people of God.

In turn, the people of God grow in their faith and love. They learn how to treat others better than themselves and care for “the least of these.” They obey the first and greatest command: love.

They have been given the command to “Go” and to “love God and their neighbor.”

It’s the way of the Master. It should be our way as well. It’s actually the purpose of this weekly offering. We hope to take a little less than five minutes of your week and give you something to consider, pray about and hopefully help you grow.

What do you think? Have we got it all wrong? Can we get it right? And, what would happen if we did get it right?

Look at What My Kid Did!

 

I will make known the LORD's loving devotion and His praiseworthy acts, because of all that the LORD has done for us--the many good things for the house of Israel according to His great compassion and loving devotion - Isaiah 63:7

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life - John 3:16

In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace - Ephesians 1:7

He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit - Titus 3:5

We wonder if you are like us. Do you have pictures on your refrigerator? By that, we mean drawings from children. You know the kind - a hand that looks like a turkey; a blob that is supposed to be dad; a hand that has seven fingers; or the loving stick figure family.

Whatever might be on your fridge - we bet it means something to you.

Speaking of children artists, Thane Hutcherson Ury, missiologist, professor, theologian, biblical scholar, pastor and premiere story-teller shares the following story that we can all understand:

There was an extremely wealthy man who was an avid collector of fine art. He gained some notoriety for accumulating an impressive collection. Sadly, his heir and only son died prematurely. The man loved him deeply, and had even placed one of his own son’s childhood drawings right between a Picasso and Rembrandt.

When the affluent man passed away, a public auction was held with all of his enviable art pieces. The invitation-only auction drew over a thousand bidders from across the world.

The auctioneer opened the occasion by first putting on the block the self-portrait that the man’s deceased son had drawn. Everyone could tell it was not a professional offering.

When the floor opened for bids, no signals came. After an embarrassing silence, a shabbily-dressed, diminutive figure walked down the aisle. The auctioneer recalled his face as one who had volunteered to load the moving trucks.

This was the servant of the wealthy man.

This servant had cared for the son for years, and wanted just one keepsake. Something to fondly remember the boy by. Feeling out of place, embarrassed, and with no sense of bidding protocol, he pulled some crumpled dollar bills from his vest pocket and asked, “Could I buy the child’s self-portrait?” Without a moment of hesitation, the auctioneer immediately slammed his gavel, saying, “Sold!”

The huge crowd shifted with excitement. Murmuring began erupting across the group. There was great anticipation that the “real” auction would now begin.

But shockingly and to the dismay of all, the auctioneer hit the gavel again and said, “The auction is done.”

Loud chatter, confusion, and anger ensued. The auctioneer finally got everyone’s attention and went on to explain. In the wealthy man’s will, he left crystal-clear instructions: his son’s self portrait was to be sold first. And then, with no other qualification, he clearly added that whoever offered to buy his son’s work would freely receive the rest of the art collection.

The master of the house had decided well in advance that whoever loved his son and accepted his work, should not only have his son’s work, but all the other works that belonged to the father.

In a very real sense, this is the same thing which happens to the person who places their faith and trust in Jesus Christ - the only Son of the Father. When we receive the work of Christ - the cross, death and resurrection - when we place our faith in him - when we freely receive his love - when we are showered in his mercy - when we are saved by his grace - we simultaneously receive the works and blessings of his Father who now becomes our Father.

As we read in John 6:32-40: Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, Moses didn’t give you bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven. The true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” “Sir,” they said, “give us that bread every day.” Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. But you haven’t believed in me even though you have seen me. However, those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them. For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do my own will. And this is the will of God, that I should not lose even one of all those he has given me, but that I should raise them up at the last day. For it is my Father’s will that all who see his Son and believe in him should have eternal life. I will raise them up at the last day.”

We don’t know about you but have you ever stopped to consider the free gift of life which God has bought and paid for? When was the last time you took time to ponder the “amazing grace” you received when “Jesus paid it all?”

The great Christian thinker Thomas A Kempis once wrote: “A wise lover values not so much the gift of the lover as the love of the giver.” Never forget - God loves you. And, that, our friends, is more valuable than any gift we could ever receive. After all, look at what his Son did!