Thursday, April 30

THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2020

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

"(John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, "This is the one I spoke about when I said, 'He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.'") Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known." (John 1:14-18)

"Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ." (Ephesians 4:15)


The great introduction to John points to the Majesty of Jesus Christ, God's chosen revelation and the Savior for those who would trust in Him. John 1:12 explains that those who have "receive[d] him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God."

I would like to focus on the one part of His revelation: His coming "full of grace and truth." Later on, in the paragraph below, John notes in contrasting tones: "For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ." While God gave Moses the law -- please take account of the verse's passive tense -- Jesus Himself brought grace and truth in His Person. Moses carried out a system and helped to establish the Old Covenant, but Jesus brought forth the New Covenant from Himself. God had now invited people into a relationship with Him, guaranteed by the shed blood of His Son.

We can just stand in awe of Christ's embodiment of grace and truth. Generally speaking, we struggle to balance grace and truth -- and their close cousins, mercy and justice. We tend to concentrate too heavily on one or the other. Due to our relationship with Christ, who Himself embodied them, we may "grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ." To do that, as Paul writes in Ephesians 4:15, we must speak the truth in love.

Practically speaking, what does that mean? It requires infusing both elements into our conversation. We express the truth lovingly: remembering the relationship and person behind our comments. Yet, we seek grace with truth: remembering the importance of honoring God by honoring the truth.

Which of these two elements do you find to come more easily to you?


Lord God, thank You for sending Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, full of grace and truth. Help us to honor You by living and speaking the truth in love. Allow our conversations to be seasoned with salt and edifying for others. In Jesus's Name, amen.


________________________________________________________________________
596 Glenbrook Road, Unit 13 | "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection
Stamford, CT 06906-1423 | and the life. He who believes in me will
(C) 203.820.1741 | live, even though he dies; and whoever
(H) 203.355.9374 | lives and believes in me will never die.
(E) swe@edwa.info | Do you believe this?'" -- John 11:25,26

April 29

Luke 24:13-53

Could you imagine meeting someone on the street today and having them ask why is everyone wearing a mask and gloves? Why are there tape marks 6 feet apart in the stores, and why are people acting so weird?  You then begin to explain life as it has unfolded over the past few months, wondering all along what rock this person has been hiding under. Granted in this day and age, it's a far fetched scenario but sometimes, like the disciples, we get so caught up in the events around us and our own agenda we miss the presence of God who is always with us. The disciples were walking and talking with Jesus and were unaware that it was him until the Lord caught their attention by breaking bread with them. It was in their reflection of the event that they recalled their hearts burning within them while He was speaking with them on the road. The only way we will recognize God's continued presence with us amidst all the craziness around us is by carving out time just to be in His presence and experiencing how he touches each of our hearts individually. When nothing else matters except recognizing the presence of the Lord, everything else, at least for a moment, will be still. Lord I pray our hearts burn as the disciples' did when they were in your presence. I pray Lord we recognize you as we go about our day.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAZd3EWu8tg

Randi

Jotham's Parable

Jotham's Parable: Is God first in your life?

I have learned a lot from Gideon, and he's a great example of how God can use us in spite of our failures. Towards the end of Gideon's life, the people wanted him to become king over them, but he said to them "I will not rule over you, nor will my son rule over you. The Lord will rule over you". It takes a courageous person to point others to God as their King, and it's a great reminder for us: We have bosses, governors, presidents, pastors, but who is your KING?

Have you heard of Jotham? I know I've read the book of Judges before, but Jotham didn't stick in my memory. Jotham was Gideon's youngest son. I love hearing how God uses the youngest children in the Bible because it's often for something special and counter-cultural. I encourage you to re-read Judges 9:7-15. Jotham tells us that the trees wanted to anoint a king for themselves. They approached an olive tree which would not give up its oil. They then approached the fig tree, which would not give up its fruit. Thirdly they approached the vine, which focused on producing wine. Finally they approached the thornbush. The thornbush offered shade to the trees who wanted to seek protection, but threatened fire to consume those who didn't.

The trees seeking a king represented Israel. The first three trees represented Gideon's sons, and the thornbush represented Abimelech. The olive tree, fig tree, and vine were far more concerned in fulfilling the purposes they were made for by producing their goods than engaging in all that comes with being a leader. They used their purpose and their gifts for the kingdom. The thornbush sought to offer shade. A thorn bush cannot provide shade. Abimelech could not offer protection to Israel.

This parable is rich in teachings. It shows us that we need to examine our motives, to set good priorities, and to be productive with our gifts and in our callings. During this pandemic, I hope you can take time to think about how you can bless others and fulfill your calling. Take a minute to remind yourself of who your King is.

"Be who you were created to be and you will set the world on fire"

bible blog post Monday April 27th

"Awe & Wonder" "Adoration & Praise". (Ps. 97:1 - 98:9)

Four years ago my husband and I took a trip to California.  We were blessed to be able to visit so much of this big, beautiful state.  Of all the things we saw during that trip one things stands out more than any others - The Giant Redwoods!!!!  I remember as we were heading further north we encountered a road with the first views of these majestic giants.  My mouth had to have hung open in awe as I had never encountered anything like them in my life.  We pulled off the road as soon as possible so that we could get out of the car, stand in their presence and truly experience these mammoth structures up close.  It was breathtaking to stand in their presence.  My outstretched arms couldn't even come close to spanning the width of one side of these trees.  Even when my husband and I tried to hold hands, together we could not wrap our arms around the trunk of one of these trees.  I was dwarfed in their presence.  I happened to look down and see a small lizard walking at the base of one tree and it made me reflect all the more on how small the creatures that lived under it's canopy truly are, myself included.  These trees provided awe and wonder for me and a home and a shelter for so many creature that lived in their shadows.  We stayed in that spot for some time in awe of the splendor of these magnificent trees.  We spent 3 weeks traveling through California and it was the time spent standing in the presence of those Redwoods that has stood out to me more than anything else we saw or did and it is what I long to go back and experience again.  I long to bring my kids with me as well so that they too can experience what I did.  So that they too can behold the majesty of these trees.  It truly was an unforgettable experience.

My Giant Redwood experience is much like the experience of the writer of Psalm 97&98.  The writer seems to have taken a moment to veer off the path of life for a moment in order to stand in and reflect on the majesty, splendor, awe and greatness of God.  These Psalms shows us how big our God is.  These Psalms show us how mighty our God is.  It puts into perspective how small we are and how flawed we are when compared to all our God is.  These Psalms remind me of the love and provisions my very big God graces my life with.  I am reminded of my flaws and weaknesses that are washed away by the shadow of His presence, His forgiveness, His Salvation.  I am reminded to guard my heart and to give it completely to Him as He is trustworthy and an unshakeable shelter where I can dwell in peace and safety.  How blessed I am to know I can live under the canopy of my Saviors love, forgiveness, protection, and grace.

When we stand in the presence of greatness and majesty what is our response?  When I returned from California I could not help but talk about my experience, to try and share the splendor of those Redwoods with my family and friends.  When standing in the presence of God, when taking the time to have an encounter with our Creator what is our response?  The answer is also found in these Psalms - it's praise, worship, adoration!!!  We should be singing for all to hear about how great our God is.  We should shout for joy at the works of His hands.  We may stand in silence while in his presence but then our voices should not be able to be contained at the wonder and majesty of what we have encountered, at the experience of standing and experiencing the splendor of our very very good God.

Our circumstances may change, our lives may alter from one day to the next but we have an infinite God who "is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8).  Be sure to take time every single day and stand in the presence of our very good God.  Stand in His presence by praying and stand in his presence by reading His word and letting His spirit reveal to you who He is.  When you are done lift your voice in songs and shouts of praise and let you heart rejoice and be renewed.  Then do it again tomorrow and the day after that and the day after that.  You are deeply loved - spend time with the one who loves you so much He gave His life for you.

Below is a link to the song "How Great Is Our God".  It is a great way to reflect on God and to lift our voices in glorious praise and adoration!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKLQ1td3MbE

April 25: Of Agony, Anxiety and Acquiescence

Judges 4:1-5:31

Luke 22:35-53

Psalm 94:1-23

Proverbs 14:3-4

Today's reading has the story of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemene.  In Catholicism I learned to call this moment in Jesus's life "The Agony in the Garden".  We read how Jesus left his disciples, knelt down and prayed about the coming ordeal, asking He be relieved of the burden but resigning Himself to His Father's will.  And agony it must have been, because we read that Jesus prayed so fervently, his prayer so deeply rooted and difficult, that his sweat was like blood.  

It's called "hematohidrosis".  An article in the Indian Journal of Dermatology describes it as "a very rare condition in which an individual sweats blood.  It may occur in an individual who is suffering from extreme levels of stress…fear and intense mental contemplation are the most frequent causes."  Then it goes on to describe how it works.  

"Around the sweat glands, there are multiple blood vessels in a net-like form, which constrict under the pressure of great stress. Then, as the anxiety passes, the blood vessels dilate to the point of rupture and goes into the sweat glands. As the sweat glands produce a lot of sweat, they push the blood to the surface, which comes out as droplets of blood mixed with sweat."

Wait a minute: you sweat blood "as the anxiety passes"?  I thought Jesus sweat blood WHILE he was struggling and afraid.  He had yet to face the agony, the separation from the Father, the death on the cross.  How could his anxiety already have passed?  Even better, how do I do the same - how do I find peace, how do I let my anxiety, my worry, my fear, my terror pass - even before I've faced the cause of all my fear?  The good news is, today's reading gives us an answer.  The bad news is, if you're like me, it isn't going to be easy.  

The first thing Jesus does is separate from the world and pray.  That is two difficult things for me - separation and prayer.  I find it difficult to clear my mind of everything I feel is urgent and focus my attention on God.  

The second thing Jesus does is surrender - "yet not My will, but Yours be done."  Ok, as tough as #1 was for me, this one is even harder: to surrender, to submit, even when I don't like what's coming, I don't understand what's coming, I don't agree with what's coming, and I can think of any number of alternatives.  To say, "I don't get it, but You know better, so let's do it Your way."  I struggle just asking for directions.  The threat of pain, of death, of hardship and difficulty for myself and my loved ones - surrender?  Really really difficult.  But I have to try.

The third thing Jesus does, even AFTER an angel has come and strengthened Him, is PRAY SOME MORE.  Not launch myself back into the fight, not seek out what needs to be done.  PRAY.  SOME MORE.  Reinforce the pillars of strength the angel built with more communion with the Source of that strength.  

Father, amidst all that is going on, teach us to pray, surrender, then pray some more.  Remind us when our foot slips, that Your unfailing love supports us; when anxiety is great within us, Your consolation will bring us joy.  Then grant that our anxiety might pass, as it did with Your Son, even before our time of crisis has ended.  We pray this in Jesus's name.  

April 24

April 24, 2020

Psalm 93

I am in a struggle for hope. The daily news of doom and gloom makes it hard to find hope. You might be in that same place too.  Right now, life is not great. On top of the struggle for hope, my default personality is one of seeing the negative in situations. I have told you that Kathie identified me as Eeyore when we watched the movie "Finding Christopher Robin." Just like Eeyore I am quick to say, "Oh no, oh no, this is happening.  Oh no, it keeps happening.  Oh no, why is this always happening to me?"

Three years ago, the Lord spoke to me and helped me change my "Oh no" to "Oh my" as in "Oh my, I can't wait to see what God is going to do next."  He helped me switch from "Oh no, what am I going to do?" to "Oh my, God, what are you going to do?" It's a lesson I had learned back then but had forgotten in recent days.  

On Monday night God spoke to me in a dream and told me to go back to that "oh, no - oh, my" life lesson I had learned three years ago. Tuesday morning, I decided to have my quiet time in my church office and Kathie was going to have hers at home. Once in my office, I put in a search for my "Oh, no to Oh, my" sermon. I discovered I had preached it on May 21, 2017. It was a sermon on steps 4 and 5 in the Red Sea Rules book. So in my journal Monday morning I wrote these words, "Rule 5: Stay calm and confident and give God time to work."

I heard the whisper of God Tuesday morning telling me to stand confidently without fear and just wait to see what He was going to do next. There was an immediate supernatural peace that flooded my heart in that moment.

When I went home the first thing Kathie asked me was, "How was your quiet time?" I told her it was one of my best ever, that the Lord had spoken to me. I shared with her the dream and finding the sermon on Red Sea Rule 5. 

Then I asked her what she had heard from the Lord that morning.  She told me she had been reading the Red Sea Rules for the last week since Maura had mentioned it in a recent Zoom coffee time and was now on chapter 5.  She had read the exact same words, "stay calm and confident and give God time to work" at the exact same time as me.

WOW… amazing. We both received the same message from God in two different locations at the very same minute. Only the Holy Spirit could have given both of us the same message at the same time. How thankful I am for a God who gives us the confidence to say "Oh my" and the expectation, "I can't wait to see what God is going to do in this impossible situation."

May you be blessed today and may you anticipate with great faith and hope what God is going to do next in your life.

 

--

"Multiplying leaders to change the world"

Thursday, April 23

THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2020

"Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.'" (Psalm 91:1,2)


This great Psalm of Moses ("the man of God") echoes into all time, reassuring us of God's constant presence with His people. When we face challenges and setbacks, we may find our security in God alone.

The key to unlocking this security comes from dwelling "in the shelter of the Most High" -- that is, seeking God and His presence. We won't find this security in any created thing or in anyone apart from God, including ourselves. Indeed, we might even observe that our anxiety often stems from our trusting in something or someone apart from God. We worry that our security will hold, but we know, deep inside, that we remain vulnerable.

In moments where we hunger for peace, we may turn fully to God and His welcoming presence. We understand that, in Christ, we have received a sure salvation: Jesus our Shepherd will guard and protect us. John 10:27-29 reads: "'My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all[c]; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one.'"

Have you shared your fears recently with the Lord in prayer? Have you laid your concerns in front of His feet? What do you find in the testimony of the Scriptures? What promises has He given?

As we face concerns and worries, we may often return to the triumphant promises of Psalm 91. May we seek Him fully and find His complete peace -- and then share it with others!


Lord God, thank You that You remain in control of every situation and every moment. We thank You that Your sovereignty never pauses. Give us eyes and hearts of faith to see Your tremendous promises clearly in moments of worry and concern. We cannot see beyond this moment, Lord, and need Your guidance and direction. Lead us along Your path. Help us to bless and love others. In Jesus's mighty Name, amen.


"Trust and Obey": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VoA0Cs8kgI



________________________________________________________________________
596 Glenbrook Road, Unit 13 | "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection
Stamford, CT 06906-1423 | and the life. He who believes in me will
(C) 203.820.1741 | live, even though he dies; and whoever
(H) 203.355.9374 | lives and believes in me will never die.
(E) swe@edwa.info | Do you believe this?'" -- John 11:25,26

April 22

Joshua 24 - Whom Will You Worship

It's hard enough to hold my family of four together, I can't even imagine Moses, Joshua or any of the other Bible heroes we read about leading nations. Moses was an incredible servant, and following God's instructions he passed the baton on to Joshua. Joshua was an incredible servant who continued to lead the children of Israel. What or who enabled them? They had direct conversations with Adonai, they spent time in His presence, cried out, listened for His voice and followed what He said. Did they have distractions? Of course, we read about plagues, and the children of Israel following false Gods, like their own mistrust, pride, doubt, fear. Anything that takes your attention off of God and magnifies itself becomes a false idol. As I read the story of the children of Israel, I  realized that they got confused because they were listening more to each other than God.  In my heart I believe what separates leaders from the flock and enables them to shepherd well is how, and who they choose to worship. Joshua, like Moses before him, knew the only way to drown out the noise was to spend time one on one with God. To stand strong, you need to spend time on your knees. So today, "choose for yourselves whom you will serve, but as for me and my household, we will worship the Lord".

Randi

Bible Blog Post 4/21/2020

Joshua 22:21-23:16

Luke 20:27-47

Psalm 89:14-37

Proverbs 13:17-19

When I think about what God wants in my life, what He wants for me, and what He wants to see in me, He wants love, compassion, understanding, patience and devotion to His word.  As I continue along my journey, walking in faith, I have been able to better understand when things don't fit into what Jesus would do.  Reading Joshua 22 was like the Lord was speaking directly to me.  How often do I allow my own understanding of something to govern my decisions and reactions?  The Gospel tells me to pause and take time to listen.  Our understanding of the world and worldly situations is not necessarily God's understanding.  We must find patience in communicating with one another and not be quick to jump into forming opinions of others and situations based on our own interpretation of what is.  

Tonight during small group, it was my turn to be prayed for, and do you know what?  Things that I prayed for on my own in my personal conversations with God were coming out in the prayers that people were sharing with me.  Something that stands out to me from tonight was when my friend said to dig deep into His word, and how it will allow me to be more prepared for situations; I'm not doing it alone.  Sound familiar?  David dug so incredibly deep into His faith in our Lord that He believed in Him despite his tremendous hardships.  God does not falter on His promises, He does not go back on His word.  He promised to love and care for David, and He did.   Back in a time when the Holy Spirit could only be upon us, but not in us, David stood true in His faith.  It makes me think of today, where through God's grace and the ultimate sacrifice of His son, Jesus Christ, we have been given the gift of freedom in His name, and the Holy Spirit is now within us.  Yet, many of us still choose to take charge of our lives instead of handing it over to God.   We do not have to lean on our own understanding of how things ought to be, nor should we.  God wants us to lean into His understanding.  We are meant to be different.  We are meant to delight in the Lord.  Proverbs 13:17-18 mentions how stubborn people would be unlikely to experience the path of honor that God has in store for each of us because they refuse to see fault in their own ways; whereas someone who is willing to change and make adjustments to their life, will be better positioned to hand their heart over to God.  

Dear Heavenly Father,  I pray that each of us can delight in your Word each day, and allow the knowledge and wisdom gained from your teachings to help us discern right from wrong.  Dear Lord, please reveal to us any areas within ourselves that need healing so that we may step forward in full faith, no longer giving power to our fear of the unknown.

In your name I pray, amen.

bible blog post Monday April 20th

"All Guns Blazing" (Joshua 22)

Have you ever had an incident with someone where you thought you knew something as true and you approached them, with all guns blazing, ready and firing so you could set them straight only to learn that you didn't actually have the full picture?  I had a somewhat similar moment to this recently with a friend I will call "Betty".  I have known Betty a long time.  We have experienced many different things in our friendship together.  So I was surprised one day when I thought I had heard Betty say some things that struck me as a bit aggressive, a little insensitive, and totally out of character.  I found myself disappointed and needing to call Betty, with my guns blazing, and set the record straight.  But I have a very very good God who just as quickly reminded me of the person and friend I know Betty to be.  I knew that I needed to put the emotional guns away and approach the situation in a different manor, with a loving and gracious heart that desired to give Betty a chance to clarify things for me.  So I prayed and knew I needed to arm myself with questions that would give Betty a chance to give me greater clarity.  I called Betty and asked my questions.  I am so glad I took this approach because I received greater insight and clarity into the things I thought I had heard Betty say.  We actually talked for almost 2 hours sharing our hearts with each other.  I was able to hang up with more respect, love, and gratitude than I had ever had for Betty before.  I can't imagine the damage I could have inflicted if I had not changed my course of action.

What does this have to do with Joshua 22?  The tribes of Israel East of the Jordan had gotten news that the tribes West of the Jordan had built an altar and the Eastern tribes assumed the Western tribes had broken faith with God and were turning against him.  The Eastern tribes assembled and with all guns blazing set out to go to war with the Western tribes.  The things is (as we will read tomorrow) the Eastern tribes were wrong.  The Western tribes had a good valid reason for the altar and it was meant to fortify their faith and stand as reminder to them of who their God is.  Quite the opposite of how it looked.  When I read this it reminded me of my story with Betty.

It is so easy for us to think that we understand things so clearly based on what we see, are told by others, hear, or think we experience.  The problem is we can often be wrong.  There are perspectives we may not be privy to, conversations we may not have heard, acts we may not have seen (or may not have seen correctly) and the list could go on.  When we put our emotional and even intellectual guns away for a moment and step back and ask God to give us clarity and to help us to approach a situation armed with questions that desire to bring understanding, unity, clarity and peace then we set out on a path that will help build others up and fortify our relationships.  We change from a warrior to a peace seeker.  We prevent possible folly by seeking greater wisdom.

Romans 12:18 says "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."  So next time you think your saw, heard, or know something about someone else don't be ready to attack but desire to be a peace keeper and arm yourself with a few questions and in grace and love seek to understand and restore unity to a relationship.

Bible blog post Monday April 20th

"All Guns Blazing" (Joshua 22)

Have you ever had an incident with someone where you thought you knew something as true and you approached them, with all guns blazing, ready and firing so you could set them straight only to learn that you didn't actually have the full picture?  I had a somewhat similar moment to this recently with a friend I will call "Betty".  I have known Betty a long time.  We have experienced many different things in our friendship together.  So I was surprised one day when I thought I had heard Betty say some things that struck me as a bit aggressive, a little insensitive, and totally out of character.  I found myself disappointed and needing to call Betty, with my guns blazing, and set the record straight.  But I have a very very good God who just as quickly reminded me of the person and friend I know Betty to be.  I knew that I needed to put the emotional guns away and approach the situation in a different manor, with a loving and gracious heart that desired to give Betty a chance to clarify things for me.  So I prayed and knew I needed to arm myself with questions that would give Betty a chance to give me greater clarity.  I called Betty and asked my questions.  I am so glad I took this approach because I received greater insight and clarity into the things I thought I had heard Betty say.  We actually talked for almost 2 hours sharing our hearts with each other.  I was able to hang up with more respect, love, and gratitude than I had ever had for Betty before.  I can't imagine the damage I could have inflicted if I had not changed my course of action.

What does this have to do with Joshua 22?  The tribes of Israel East of the Jordan had gotten news that the tribes West of the Jordan had built an altar and the Eastern tribes assumed the Western tribes had broken faith with God and were turning against him.  The Eastern tribes assembled and with all guns blazing set out to go to war with the Western tribes.  The things is (as we will read tomorrow) the Eastern tribes were wrong.  The Western tribes had a good valid reason for the altar and it was meant to fortify their faith and stand as reminder to them of who their God is.  Quite the opposite of how it looked.  When I read this it reminded me of my story with Betty.

It is so easy for us to think that we understand things so clearly based on what we see, are told by others, hear, or think we experience.  The problem is we can often be wrong.  There are perspectives we may not be privy to, conversations we may not have heard, acts we may not have seen (or may not have seen correctly) and the list could go on.  When we put our emotional and even intellectual guns away for a moment and step back and ask God to give us clarity and to help us to approach a situation armed with questions that desire to bring understanding, unity, clarity and peace then we set out on a path that will help build others up and fortify our relationships.  We change from a warrior to a peace seeker.  We prevent possible folly by seeking greater wisdom.

Romans 12:18 says "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."  So next time you think your saw, heard, or know something about someone else don't be ready to attack but desire to be a peace keeper and arm yourself with a few questions and in grace and love seek to understand and restore unity to a relationship.

April 18: Of Jewish Gossip Tabloids, 33AD

Joshua 16:1-18:28

Luke 19:1-27

Psalm 87:1-7

Proverbs 13:11

"He has gone to be the guest of a sinner."

  - People Magazine, Israel Edition, 33AD

The scandal in the observation, in the condescending muttering among the glitterati of the day, is almost palpable in reading the words, even over two thousand years later.  It was something that JUST WASN'T DONE, especially by Someone Who was supposed to be a Teacher.  There almost seemed to be a certainty among THOSE WHO KNEW THESE THINGS that this was going to destroy His reputation as a rabbi…

And yet, reflecting on my life, on the multitude of sins, many long forgotten, of varying degrees of seriousness, every single one of them making me worthy only of condemnation, I am overwhelmed by these very words.  "He has gone to be the guest of a sinner."  There is hope for me.  He might come to my home as well, despite my sins, despite how unacceptable it would be for Perfection to visit with the imperfect, for Flawless to sup with the flawed.  What to do, how to get there?  Thank you, Zacchaeus, for the roadmap.

First, let me want Him so much that, though my stature make it impossible to see him easily, I go to great lengths (or great heights, as Zaccheaus did), to do so.  Then, when He sees me and asks to come, may I set aside whatever other plans I might have, for my day, for my home, for my possessions, and put them at His disposal.  

Then, perhaps, I will be so overwhelmed by relationship with Him that what I have is no longer as important as it was to me, no longer as important as He is to me.  Then, perhaps, I too will hear that salvation as come to my house as well.  I am lost, Jesus, come seek me and save me.

Thursday, April 16

THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

"People were also bringing babies to Jesus to have him touch them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.'" (Luke 18:15-17)


In these verses, Jesus helps us to approach Him like a "little child." Children bring raw honesty, innocence, and joy in their relationships, which all point to a soft heart. Unfortunately, we tend to become hardened through time by the pains and struggles of life, and our approach to others and to God becomes more reserved and tentative.

I am very grateful for this reminder to approach God with a childlike love and confidence. It speaks to simplifying and resting in the Father's presence and surrendering a trusting heart to His loving care. It means breaking down the walls of "strength" and hardness and coming to Him in vulnerability.

I have found that, when I have approached God in vulnerability and weakness, He has met me every time. With such an attitude, the Scriptures becomes more vivid. Prayer becomes a richer conversation. My joy grows and flourishes. And the Spirit can take better control of my heart.

This passage also emphasize the attractiveness of Jesus's love. Throughout the Gospels, we find that humble people sought Him out, for they knew that He had come from God and that He had brought love, peace, and joy to a hurting world. The same holds true today, but we may not welcome Jesus fully into our daily lives because of our cautious "adult" hearts.

How can you lay before God today in childlike honesty and vulnerability? For what could you express your gratefulness? How has He shown His tremendous love for you as His beloved child?


Lord God, thank You for sending Your Son to sacrifice in our place. Thank You for giving us a means of approaching You at all. Thank You that we may enter into Your Kingdom with a childlike faith. Thank You for meeting us in our weakness and vulnerability and bringing reassurance of Your love and faithfulness. We love You and worship You today. In Jesus's Name, amen.


"Unashamed Love": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiNiUlV9E9Y



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April 17

April 17, 2020

Psalm 86

Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.  86:11

God is always teaching us. He is even teaching during a pandemic. One lesson I have been learning is in the battle against idolatry. The war against idolatry is a battle that is never finished. Once you defeat the enemy in one area, he attacks in another. Our adversary never gives up; he just changes battlefronts.    

One of the purifying aspects of the pandemic has been awareness of an insidious form of idolatry that had crept into my old clergy heart.

Most of you know I have been on a three-year plan headed toward my retirement. I had this perfectly mapped out. I would disciple my replacement and then head off into retirement to spend the final chapter of my life at a much slower pace.

It was a good plan. A plan my wife and I worked at for four decades.

We had it all figured out. Enjoy the last few months of ministry hanging out with our church family. Buy a house, live off our savings, invest our lives in new ministry, spend more time with our families, travel, enjoy our hobbies, and finally take life easy.

Then it happened. 90 days from walking out the door, I'm told by the government I must stay inside. Quarantine! The stock market tanks. The housing market dries up. The COVID 19 virus is going to kill me. The whole world melts down. Really?  This can't be happening. Talk about bad timing!

My emotions during those early days were nothing less than bitterness and great disappointment. Lord, this is not fair. Why are you doing this to me? Where are you God?  Don't you know I have a plan?

That is what was going on in my heart. Ugly but true!!

About a week into my whining and moping I spent time in "listening prayer," where I poured out my heart to the Lord. I then sat in the silence and listened to him. What I heard that day was his quiet whisper, "Scott, you seem to care more about your retirement than my kingdom." That was my "aha" moment; my retirement goal had become a replacement god.

Guilty as charged. Yes, that is exactly what had happened. Satan and my heart had come up with this idea that I had to have my way in order to be happy. It was an attitude that made retirement an idol, something I loved more than God.

I have since repented and told God that he has first place in my life. The order is again His kingdom come; his will be done. All other earthly pursuits are secondary. Hopefully like David I will live out this pandemic with an undivided heart. 

--

"Multiplying leaders to change the world"

April 15

Luke 17

In her book One Thousand Gifts, Ann Voskamp emphasizes the importance of gratitude. Many who read the book took up the challenge of a "blessing  book" in some form, the goal being to write down 1,000 blessings, or ways you found yourself grateful. It took me a really long time getting to my first 1,000. Perhaps I made it harder than it needed to be and finding gratitude in soap bubbles just didn't cross my mind. What I started to realize though is that there is simplicity in gratitude and now not only do I write three things I am grateful for at the end of each of day, I ask Antonio and the boys to participate.

We read in our passage today that "Jesus came to Jerusalem". Let's remember where this triumphal entry was eventually leading Him. Even still, He healed 10 lepers, but only one came back to show gratitude. I started to think about this, aren't we all lepers in some way? Don't we all suffer from something? It could be a physical illness, pride, greed, selfishness, the list is endless. The reality is we are all sinners saved by grace, and still daily Jesus offers us a way to say "thank you Lord". Lord, You are worthy of our praise and gratitude. Thank you for loving our souls, Your breath in our lungs, the relationship we live in with You, Your spirit to fill our hearts, the fullness of Your glory. I pray Lord You make us wise today to see life through Your eyes, and let us be grateful to serve as you served, with love. Thank you Lord for provision and protection. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us to give thanks in all circumstance for this is God's will for you in Chris Jesus. What are you grateful for today?

Randi

bible blog post Monday April 13th

Tending the Heart (Joshua 7:16-26)

 

 

 

In Joshua 7 we read about how serious God sees our sin and the affects it can have not just in our own lives but the lives of others as well.  God calls his children to deal with sin quickly, swiftly and completely. 

 

As I read the story of Achan's sin, in Joshua 7, it reminds me of my garden.  I am a very novice gardener.  I have learned much and am learning even more all the time.  Last year, after months of reading, planting and caring for my vegetable plants I discovered some of them had developed powdery mildew.  This is a white powder that covers the leaves of the plant and can spread.  If left unattended it can prevent the plant from producing its fruit and sometimes destroy it.  I immediately did a google search on how to organically treat it and asked my husband to pick up some of the supplies I needed.  The next day I had the supplies but I got busy and kept thinking "I'll take care of it later."  Then it was time to go on vacation and again I thought, "I'll take care of it when I get back."  When I got back it was really bad and had begun to spread to the plants that were growing next it.  I put on my gardening gloves and tried to cut off as many infected leaves as possible without completely losing the plant (I was not successful in the long run).  Then I went and tended to my cucumber and cantaloupe plants.  To make a long story short, I didn't know that mildew spores could be carried on my garden gloves and transferred to the healthy plants I was also working with.  I lost all my cantaloupes and some of my cucumber plants as well.  If I had acted immediately and removed the infected leaves when I had first noticed the issues and washed my garden gloves and tools before moving to other plants then my garden as a whole would not have suffered the loss it had.

 

I believe God wants us to treat the sin in our lives with the same swiftness and urgency that I needed to have towards the powdery mildew that had made a home in my garden.  Sin that is left unchecked can coat a once healthy heart and prevent us from producing the fruit we are called to produce.  If left to long it can even destroy one's faith.  Like Joshua was told by God, we cannot think that it is ok to leave even a hint of sin in our lives for any length of time.  We need to seek God daily and ask him to reveal anything and everything that is sinful in our lives and ask him to help us to destroy it, to eliminate it completely and for God to cultivate a right heart in its place.  

 

As I enter into this year's gardening seasons I am fully aware of the steps I need to take to try and prevent the powdery mildew from settling but I also need to be ready to battle it as soon as it pops up.  Likewise, I encourage each of you to enter into each day seeking God's hand to help you protect your heart from the deceitfulness of sin and to be on the lookout and ready to battle it as soon as you are aware of any in your life.  You are God's precious possession (Duet.26:18) and he desires you to grow and learn, don't let sin hinder all that he has for you and all he has planned for you to do.

April 11: Of The Cost of Commitment

Joshua 3:1-4:24

Luke 14:7-35

Psalm 80:1-19

Proverbs 12:27-28

I was blessed with wonderful grandparents, one of whom injected a dose of reality into the euphoria that followed the Philippine revolution that in 1986 removed the dictator, Marcos, from office after 21 years. When I asked him, the former Chief Justice of our Supreme Court, why he seemed so sad that Marcos had been removed, he said something that stuck with me ever since: "if the people think they can remove a president they don't like anytime this way, what's to stop them from doing it anytime someone doesn't like the president?"

Since then, the integrity of the process, and respect for its outcome (regardless of whether I voted for it or not)  have been very important to me.  Which is why, despite how opposed I was to Obama's policies, I respected him as president.  And which is why, however odious I think Trump might be personally, I respect him as president today.  Respect for the process is so important to me that I stick to it, despite the derision I got for my respect for Mr. Obama, and the sometimes outright hostility I've received for my support of Mr. Trump.  But it's important to me, so I am prepared to pay the price.

Today's scripture reading reminds us that our faith convictions don't come free, and we have to be prepared to pay the price, which can be steep. We can face derision from people who wonder why we are such "rubes" who live according to what they think are outmoded morality fairy tales.  Or face rejection from colleagues and superiors who insist the job demands we behave sinfully, and "it's ok - everyone does it".  In China, you risk imprisonment. In parts of the Middle East, death.  

The question we each have to ask ourselves is, is it worth it? Today, the day that bridges the gap between the cross and the empty tomb, is a particularly apt day to ask and answer that question.  We benefit from the reminder we commit to Someone Who gave all for us…and Who offers us eternity.  

I'll leave you with something I found googling the phrase "why Christians are stupid".  It's an amazing testimony of a young woman who decided that what she gained was worth the high price she paid.  I love her conclusion: "The reason that most people aren't Christians is either because they think that Jesus isn't really real or that he isn't really worth it. But Jesus is both—really real and really worth it. Yes, I gave up some major things and some significant sexual relationships—but God has heaped upon me beautiful and good things in their place."  If you've read this far, I hope you'll click on the link to read her story too.

https://www.thegoodbook.co.uk/blog/interestingthoughts/2019/02/04/i-thought-christians-were-stupid-bigots/

Good Friday

April 10, 2020   

Matt 27:46-50   About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"--which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"

Why this cry of dereliction?  What was happening on the cross?  The sins of the world were being placed on Jesus. And because of our sins, the greatest pain in human history was occurring. For the first time in all eternity, there was a disconnection in the Trinity. God had to darken the skies that day because he couldn't look at his Son and our sin. And in some mysterious way, there was a crisis in the Trinity.

So why did God do it?  It was the only way to rescue us from our sins. Our good deeds can't get rid of sin. Only someone paying the penalty could. Jesus paid that debt.

And whose sin was on Jesus? This is where the cross becomes personal; it was my sin, my pride, my rebellion, my selfishness that nailed him to that cross.

Elizabeth Browning put Good Friday into proper perspective when she wrote;

         Yea, once Immanuel's orphaned cry his universe hath shaken.

         It went up single, echoless, "My God, I am forsaken!"

         It went up from the Holy's lips amid his lost creation.

         That, of the lost, no son should use those words of desolation.

Because Jesus cried out those words, we don't have to. We never have to say, "I am forsaken," because Jesus died on the cross. Get on your knees today and thank God for his great love and immeasurable sacrifice for us.

My Dear Sweet Lord Jesus,

No day has passed in my life that has not proved me guilty in your eyes.

I am well aware of my hard heart, my pride, my ungrateful attitude. On this Good Friday I am well aware of my need for a Savior, my need for your rescue. My confidence this day is that Jesus died in my place. Even though my sins are great, your grace is a million times greater. Thank you!!  Thank you!!  Thank you!!

So this is my confidence today:

By your stripes I have been healed.

You were bruised for my iniquities.

You were made sin so that I would be made righteous.

Though my sins are numerous, they are all forgiven and buried in the deepest ocean.

I am guilty, but pardoned; lost, but saved; wandering, but found;

sinning, but cleansed.

Keep all of us clinging to your cross.

Open the flood gates of your mercy today and renew my heart.

Send your Holy Spirit to take me to a new plateau of faith.

Thank you again Lord Jesus for crying,

    "My God, I am forsaken," so that I don't have to.

 

--

"Multiplying leaders to change the world"

April 8

Luke 12 Instructions for the Disciples 35-40

Reading this passage reminded me of a time when my brother and I still lived at home and my parents went away for a week. We were beyond teenage years but not quite ready to live on our own and we were very glad to have what we thought would be a week without our parents in the house. In our eyes we were keeping things together, until we got a call a few days earlier than expected with the five words we dreaded to hear, "we're on our way home". Looking around we realized we hadn't kept up with what we should have been doing and things weren't really in the order they were expected to be found in upon my parents arrival and we had some serious clean up to do before they got home.

In verse 40 of this passage, we are warned "You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you don't expect". Now, please don't get me wrong, I'm in not comparing my parents return home to the second coming of Jesus, but if you saw the mess you would understand my fear of not being prepared for their return. No one knows when Jesus is coming back, but we learn in this passage that in the wait, our focus should be on following the directions the Messiah left us. Love God, love people, make disciples. It was pretty humbling when I thought if Jesus showed up today, what would He find me doing? Is my spiritual house in order? How did I serve Him today? How far off am I from what I have been called to do? If we keep within our spiritual rhythms on the daily, then we have less of chance of drifting and being caught off guard. I pray that as we continue to be in quarantine we use this time to get on our knees and get our spiritual houses in order. "Blessed is that servant whose master finds him so doing when he comes" (v. 43)

Randi

Blog Post 4.7.2020 From Theresa Telesco

Deuteronomy 31, Luke 12, Psalm 78

How fitting that during this Holy Week for both Christians and Jewish believers, today's psalm reminds us of the power, sovereignty, and mercy of God to save His people.  "In spite of all this they still sinned; they did not believe in His wonders."  God's power is immutable and unchanging.  Well, it seems also that the nature of man, apart from the regeneration the Holy Spirit, also remains unchanging.  The psalmist describes Israel's cycle of rebellion followed by repentance and displays of divine mercy and restoration.  We, like Israel, are called to learn from the past and to respond to the goodness of God with repentance and gratitude.  But like Israel, our response is often most capricious.  Any show of seeking God and change is frequently short-lived.  But God invariably shows Himself to be steadfast in His faithfulness and offer of redemption to His people.  Though a wavering response is not what God desires, He continues to demonstrate great compassion and forgiveness.   "Their heart was not steadfast toward him; they were not true to His covenant," yet He spared them.  "He restrained his anger, and did not stir up all His wrath."  Instead, God remains faithful to lead and guide His children to safety.    

Wow this story of ancient days could easily be our story. Were we to take a moment to reflect, we could certainly tell personal stories of God's faithfulness towards us even when the bent of our heart was away from Him.  Even in our rebellion, He is faithful.  As a nation, our history is replete with similar stories of God's mercy and covering over us even when we failed to honor our covenant with Him. Singularly and collectively during the course of 'good times' when we feel strong, self-confident, and in control of our lives, it is all too easy to ascribe God's blessing to our own hard work and ingenuity.  But in 'difficult times' when need surpasses our ability, we are most drawn to bow our knees and humble ourselves.  These times most remind us of our dependence upon the goodness and mercy of God and the sobering truth that we are, "…but flesh, a passing breeze that does not return." 

How assuring it is to know that God considers our frailty and does not despise it.  Rather, he shows great mercy and constraint.  In Deuteronomy 31, God gives Moses and Joshua instruction acknowledging that that the heart of man is disposed to, "…rejecting me and breaking my covenant."  Yet He leads them to the land of promise.  In His goodness, He speaks words of encouragement, "Do not be afraid." One source estimates that the admonition to not be afraid can be found 365 times.  It seems a daily reminder.  Jesus gives the apostles the same instruction.  Fully aware of their weaknesses, He counsels them, "Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." 

During these uncertain days, that are before us, let us be reminded of our history and the nature of our God to provide, protect, and redeem.  Let us consider what He has done in our personal lives and throughout all of history for those who would seek Him, repent, and place their trust in Him. 

Lord, we need You always.  Forgive us our lack of gratitude and our lack of faith.  Holy Spirit, we are a stiff-necked people.  Take our hardness of heart and make us ever more sensitive to Your presence. Let the bent of our hearts be turned back to You.  Give us pure hearts and clean hands.  Renew a right spirit within us that we would seek You whole-heartedly, repent most sincerely, and walk in the fullness of life that You have provided for us.  

April 4: Of Persistence and Prayer

Deuteronomy 26:1-27:26

Luke 10:38-11:13

Psalm 76:1-12

Proverbs 12:15-17

per*sist: to be obstinately repetitious, insistent or tenacious; to hold firmly and steadfastly to a purpose, state or undertaking despite obstacles, warnings or setbacks. 

In the New York area, it's been three weeks since the lockdown and quarantine began, since people began to lose their jobs and their income en masse.  Three weeks of uncertainty, of worry, of friction at home as people learn to navigate the new dynamics of work-from-home and home schooling, of the ever nearer threat of a virus that seems to have infected someone we know, or taken the life of someone we've heard of.  Three weeks of rising infections and fatalities, with no end in sight. And for much of the rest of the world, it has been just as bad, if not worse.  What are we to do?

Today's reading provides a one word prescription: persist.  Two examples, and an instruction.  The neighbor had gone to bed, but the one in need persisted.  Martha needed help in the kitchen, but Mary persisted.  The neighbor in need got his bread, and Mary got the more valuable benefit.  Indeed our Lord says as much.  He doesn't say "ask once" or "knock once", he says "ask" and "knock" - call it the present persistent tense.  

Easy to say, but hard to do - but perhaps easier if we remember two reasons why people persist: we believe the goal is worth it despite the price, and achievable despite the obstacles or setbacks.  Today we pray for God to end the pandemic, to protect our healthcare workers, our grocers and all those on the front lines, and to provide for those who who've lost their jobs.  To heal those who are today sick, and to welcome home those who have passed on.  

These goals are worth the persistence.  And because we pray to God, who is not only all powerful, but whose Son has reassured us that if we ask, we shall receive, we know the goal is achievable. 

As Christians, what are we to do?  The only things.  Pray.  Persist.

April 3

Luke 10

 

In 1992, Mr. Rogers received an honorary doctorate (his 25th) from Boston University. When he was introduced during the commencement, 5000 students stood and applauded so long that there was only one way he could get them to stop. Here's what Fred said, "Why don't you just sit down, and we'll sing this song together? Just sing it with me. 'It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood, a beautiful day for a neighbor. Would you be mine? Could you be mine?'"

 

Jesus was the first one to sing that song. He did it in our New Testament reading today. During a tense conversation with a very religious, but unloving person, Jesus clarified the purpose of life, which is simply to love God and love people. But this religious guy knew he came up short on loving people, so he began debating the meaning of the word "neighbor." The parable of the Good Samaritan was Jesus' brilliant explanation with the punchline, "Go and do likewise." To really love the neighborhood means we express our love in concrete actions and behaviors. It is not enough to say we love people; we need to live it.

 

Here are some ideas on living a life of love:  

1. Love people. The number one reason people become friends is because they believe the other person really loves them. You can't fake this. Ask God for real love; he is the author of it.

2. Love reaches out. Love initiates. Love crosses to the other side. The Grace Church family is reaching out each day by making three calls to others.

3. Love sacrifices. It is going to be costly to love. If love isn't costly, it isn't love. The Good Samaritan interrupted his agenda to include a neighbor in need. He also paid the financial cost. Radically share your finances.

4. Love prays. In your conversations with neighbors end by asking them if you could pray for them. Very few people today will not want this.

5. Love speaks. Just say it. We are too stingy with saying, "I Love You."

 

Fred Rogers said this in 2003, "You know, I think everybody longs to be loved, and longs to know that he or she is lovable. And, consequently, the greatest thing that we can do is to help somebody know that they're loved and capable of loving." 

 

That is our mission today, show three people they are loved by us and God. 

 

 

 

--

"Multiplying leaders to change the world"