October 30: Of Grief and Comfort

Lamentations 3:1-66

Hebrews 1:1-14

Psalm 102:1-28

Proverbs 26:21-22

Somewhere, there are three young siblings whose world has just gone dark, having lost their father quickly to cancer, some ten years after they lost their mother.  Orphans, the youngest barely in his teens.  

Similarly tragic, a friend's six year old grandson is waking up probably each day with the expectation of a mother's voice, only to excruciatingly realize she is gone - where, he is unsure - her voice no longer to be heard.  That little boy's confusion is rivaled only by his grandmother's cacophony of emotion and emptiness at the loss of her daughter.  

I read today's OT reading and thought, this must be what each of these people is feeling.  To be walled in by inexplicable tragedy, unable escape, weighed down by grief and frustration and anger; to cry out for help yet feel as though God had shut out their prayer, the one they loved still gone.  I read Lamentations today, and I think I can begin - barely! - to get some sense of their suffering, how the streams of tears flow from their eyes.  

Yet their experience is by no means unique, not in this time of pandemic, both medical and economic, for there are many who have been taken, whether  by disease or by despair, their loved ones left with the loss, the anger and the emptiness.  What can we say to them that might ease their pain?

The truth is, I have no idea.  I don't think there is anything I could possibly say to ease a pain so terrible.  So rather than speak to them to try and offer comfort I am incapable of providing, perhaps better to turn to the One who IS able.  To beg the Lord, as the psalmist did, to hear my prayer, my cry for help, to turn to me when I call.  To declare His eternal and sovereign nature, and to trust that He will look down from His sanctuary, hear the groans of my suffering friends, and release them from their grief.  

Father, You have given us the capacity to love, and empathize with, others; but You have withheld the ability for us to alleviate their pain.  Thank You, then, that we can lift our grieving friends into Your care, knowing You love them.  In Your time - but if You are willing, please make haste! - comfort them with Your love, and the knowledge of Your love for the ones they have lost.  And in Your time, turn their sadness to joy.

Thursday, October 29

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2020

"I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ. Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the heart of the saints." (Philemon 4-7)


In his letter to Philemon, Paul urges his recipient to welcome back Onesimus, who had once been Philemon's servant. Having run away from Philemon, Onesimus subsequently received Christ and began working with Paul in his ministry. This letter, deftly written and indicative of Paul's personal persuasion, seeks reconciliation in what could be a tricky situation.

Notably, Philemon is also a Christ-follower and has apparently undertaken a fruitful ministry. Paul reasons that, if there were to be reconciliation in this situation, it will come through the shared brotherhood of Christ-followers, not through demands.

In this introductory section, Paul turns his attention to Philemon's faithful Gospel ministry. Motivated by "faith" and "love," Philemon has apparently been involved in "sharing your faith," which Paul anticipates to bring a "full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ."

That sixth verse has always impressed me for its simplicity but richness. As we seek to share our faith with others, either through introducing friends to Jesus or helping them to grow in Christ, we can't help but reflect on the life-giving truths of Scripture and be awed at God's amazing love for us. Indeed, the Gospel fans the flame of deeper faith and greater gratitude for all that God has done on our behalf. To Him be all glory, honor, and praise forever!

How have you experienced God's love more deeply as a result of sharing about it with others? In small group? With friends and family?


Lord God, thank You for giving us life through the shed blood of Christ. Thank You for drawing us to Yourself and deepening our understanding of Your love and grace. Strengthen us today to share our faith well and broadly. Give hope to a hurting, discouraged world through us, through the power of the Gospel. In Jesus's mighty 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

October 28

Titus 3

My son had a friend over once and we had to go out for a minute so we left his friend to watch over the food that was cooking on the stove. Our instruction to him was "keep an eye on the food". The answer was "OK". We came home a short time later and asked "did you stir the food?" The answer was "you told me to keep an eye on the food, you didn't say anything about stirring it." I learned in that moment that directions are subject to interpretation and vague instructions won't get the same results as detailed directions. In today's reading, Paul gives Titus some very specific directions to pass on about being ready to do "whatever is good". Doing whatever is good could mean a lot of different things to a lot of different people but Paul gets pretty specific. He says don't slander anyone, be peaceable and considerate and show true humility toward all men. I think what Paul wants us to understand is that we too were once trying to follow vague directions before the kindness and love of God appeared. We are all redeemed sinners saved by grace and by the power of the Holy Spirit we now can devote ourselves to doing what is good because we have an example of Who to follow. In a world where there is anger and confusion, I pray we, as disciples, now can be the example of what is looks like to do "whatever is good". I pray for each of us today a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit and the opportunity to show love in Jesus Name.

Randi

Googling God's Word

October 27^th, 2020

Jeremiah 51:1-53

Titus 2:1-15

Psalm 99:1-9

Proverbs 26:17

 

I encourage you to read the passages listed above. There are some great connections between them. But before you read them, contrary to all usual advice, I suggest having your phone out with google in hand. Stay focused on what you are reading, and use your phone (or computer) as a tool: When you don't understand the meaning of a word, the context of a sentence, or have any other question, look it up. It can transform how we interpret scripture. I'm going to spend today sharing a few of my takeaways based on this tactic:

 

1)      Jeremiah 51:1

Who are the people of Leb Kamai?

I couldn't get past the first verse of Jeremiah's reading without a quick "google" of the above question. After a brief search, I found out that Leb means "heart" and Kamai "rising up against", so God is sending the destroyer to the people whose hearts are rising up against him. This makes more sense in setting a context for the chapter we are about to read, about why God is sending a "destroyer" to these people.

 

2)      Jeremiah 51:2

What is winnowing?

In Jeremiah 51:2, God says he will send foreigners to Babylon to winnow her. I had no idea what this meant, but after a little research, I found that winnowing is a method used to separate wheat (or grain) from chaff (if that word generates a question mark for you, go ahead and google: what is chaff?). It is when a current of air is used to blow the chaff away and keep the good grain by having it fall to the ground. It can also be used to remove pests from stored grain. What a great metaphor for us in our walks of faith. If we have a current of air blown our way, will be blow away like the chaff or the pests, or will we fall to the floor from the weight of our faith?

 

3)      Titus 2:9-10

How does the teaching on slavery apply today?

Ok, this one I cheated and used the footnotes in my Bible (also a great resource!). This is what is says: "Slavery was common in Paul's day. Paul advised slaves and masters to be loving and responsible in their conduct. The standards set by Paul can help any employee/employer relationship. Employees should always do their best work and be trustworthy, not just when the employer is watching. Businesses lose millions of dollars a year to employee theft and time-wasting. If all Christian employees would follow Paul's advice at work, what a transformation it would make!"

This was a great reminder to me to have that spirit of integrity not only at work, but in my daily life. Titus is a book that teaches us sound doctrine, and we must teach others not only through our words, but through the way we live. This applies in work, in church, in family life, and in all of our relationships. Are you teaching others simply in living your daily life? That is what we are called to.

 

4)      Proverbs 26:17

What happens when you grab the ears of a stray dog?

This one didn't really require much googling. I can imagine you are very likely to get bitten if you engage in this type of behavior, much like you are likely to get hurt if you get involved in the argument of others. Clearly it's better to stay out of arguments altogether, but there's a special emphasis on the fact that when you don't know the person, and are simply a "passer-by", there is harm that could come to both you and the other. There is extreme value in nurturing a "stray", meeting its needs, showing it a safe place, and developing a relationship. We need to invest in others to know and understand them before we can get involved.

 

Friends, there is so much more that can be delved in to in today's reading. I urge you to dig deeper in to scripture so that you may grow deeper in your faith, stronger in your relationship with God, and that you may stand firm when the wind blows. My prayer for you is a heart that desires to understand His Word, and for encouragement and joy in every little thing you learn about our great God. Now go read and dig deeper!

Bible Blog Post - Sunday, October 25, 2020

Jeremiah 48:1-49:22

2 Timothy 4:1-22

Psalm 95:1-96:13

Proverbs 26:9-12

2 Timothy 4:1-2  In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge:  Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage--with great patience and careful instruction. 2 Timothy 4:5 But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.

Grace church family, this scripture relates to a realization that I had during quiet time last week.  We must constantly lean into God's word, His will, His power, His unending love, for all of the days of our lives.  It is by no merit of our own that we are saved; it is by the grace of God and the sacrifice of His one and only son that we are able to have a relationship with Our Father.  Being a Christian is tough work.  It takes continuous effort, dedication, devotion, love, patience, perseverance, and many qualities that can be hard to live out at times.  However, it is our duty as children of God to love and obey Him. 

Proverb 26:9 Like a thornbush in a drunkard's hand 

is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.

This proverb really packs a punch.  The bible is full of profound teachings that we must absorb and apply into our daily living, and this proverb reminds us that we must be careful when applying these teachings.  If we apply them incorrectly, it can actually cause injustice or harm.  We must pray for God's wisdom and guidance as we navigate through His word.  

I actually had a recent experience with this where someone referenced who we are as Christians in an attempt to sway my thinking and decision making.  However, I recognized it for what it was, and I stood my ground.  We must heed the warning in this proverb - when things are pulled out of context to serve a selfish purpose instead of serving God, we must stop in our tracks and realign our thinking.

God continues to amaze me with His lessons and teachings.  I am noticing a shift in myself, my way of thinking, the way I react and respond to situations, and my overall view of different scenarios.  It is incredible.  When I entered Grace Church last year with Anthony, I had no idea what I was in store for.  While the seasons of growth can be uncomfortable, seeing the joy and everlasting love that God provides us with is beautiful beyond words.

My brothers and sisters, I pray that all of us can lean into God's word this week, absorb His wisdom, and use that as our guiding light as we press on and traverse our current times.  In Jesus' name I pray, Amen!

Amanda

October 24: Of Three Questions

Jeremiah 44:24-47:7

2 Timothy 2:22-3:17

Psalm 94:1-23

Proverbs 26:6-8

2 Timothy 3:1-9 is too long a passage to write in this blog word for word, so I will ask you to read it instead.  And if you've read all of today's passages listed above, please go back and read it again.  It will be easy to read it and think of every single person you have ever observed behave in this manner.  Loving themselves, loving money, boastful, proud, abusive…treacherous and rash, even.  

You know what is harder for me?  But, in truth, what would be more productive?  Seeing how much, how often, and how deeply I've violated all those warnings myself.  As easy as it is to see these faults in others, introspection is difficult, and far too often our point of view is too close to see ourselves for what we are.  What to do?

In this regard, I fall back on lessons from Pastor Peter Tan-Chi, the lead pastor of the church my parents back home in Manila attend.  He says that in order to develop and grow our relationships with those who know us, whom we love - our children, in particular, in his example- we should regularly ask them three questions:

• How can I improve?
• How have I hurt you?
• Will you please forgive me?

Pastor Peter discussed these in the context of improving a parent's relationship with their children.  I think they are applicable not just in that direction, but in all 360 degrees around us - to parents as well as children, friends as well as relatives.  The thing is, these questions will serve no purpose if in our response we seek to justify ourselves or defend our actions.  They only work if (1) we are willing to listen, however painful the answers, however much we might disagree; and (2) we are willing to humble ourselves, recognize that, though we might not have intended to, we will have hurt those we love, and ask their forgiveness.  

I might also add that this is a really good conversation to have in yet another direction - upwards.  I suggest that these are questions we should be asking our Father in heaven every single day, listening for His answers, taking them to heart, and letting them bear fruit in action and transformation.

Father, grant us the grace to focus not on the flaws of others, but on our own.  Give us the courage to seek others' input, the willingness to accept their observations, and the humility to seek their forgiveness.  Even more so, help us to have these conversations with You.

October 23: Of Soldiers, Athletes, Timothy and My Sons

Jeremiah 42:1-44:23

2 Timothy 2:1-21

Psalms 92:1-93:5

Proverbs 26:3-5

No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer.  Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor's crown except by competing according to the rules.  - 2 Tim 2:4-5

Our two sons are on a swim team.  To get good, they need hard, focused work, and an understanding of and obedience to the rules.  

On the first of the two requirements, we are amazed at how much work they have to put in.  Pre-covid, they were training up to 18 hours a week, in the pool 9 times, thrice at 5:30 in the morning, and hitting up to 33 miles in seven days.  They've not gotten "entangled" in other sports - yes, they know how to shoot hoops or throw a football, but they've not gone out for those teams. 

For all that hard work, though, if, when they are on the blocks, waiting for the starter's gun, they should flinch…or if they should over-rotate as they flip turn from one lap to the next…they are disqualified.  They don't get to dispute the ruling, they don't get to change the rules, they don't get to claim what they did shouldn't be a disqualifying offense.  Doesn't matter how much they have worked, how far they may have traveled to join the meet - we've driven 9 hours and 600 miles to get to one meet - they compete according to the rules.

In the same way, Paul reminded Timothy of the need for hard, focused work in the service of the Lord - to be of the Lord, unentangled by the ways and cares of the world.  And he reminded Timothy of the need to be obedient to God, seeking not to please himself, but his "Commanding Officer", even when it was difficult, or seemed futile. He reminded Timothy that to arrive at the finish, he had to abide by God's commands.  

I am in awe of my two sons, of the hard work they put in and their strict adherence to the rules of the sport.  I wish I could say I aspired to spending as much of my week with, and in the service of, the Lord as they do in training.  I wish I could say I didn't try and justify myself before God when I sinned, and wanted God to do it my way instead of His.  

Father, thank You for the inspiration of Paul to Timothy, and of the inspiration of people focused on task everywhere.  May we take their example and apply it to our relationship with You, seeking You instead of the world, and obeying You instead of ourselves.  

Thursday, October 22

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2020

"For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. He has saved us and called us to a holy life -- not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." (2 Timothy 1:6-10)


In 2 Timothy, Paul offers some parting thoughts to a key disciple, Timothy, who has taken a leadership role in the early church. As we read in 1 Corinthians 16:10, 1 Timothy 4:12, and the verses above, Timothy served in Gospel ministry but struggled with insecurity, perhaps arising from his young age.

The antidote to Timothy's insecurity did not lie within him, but rather from the power of God manifested through the Holy Spirit, given to him as a follower of Christ. The Spirit brings "power, love and self-discipline" in place of fear. The work of God begins and ends with God. The Gospel makes it clear that we owe everything for our salvation to God. As such, the Gospel minister relies on God's strength, given through the Holy Spirit.

It appears that Paul commissioned Timothy and sought God's favor for his ministry, indicating by the laying on of his hands. In 1 Timothy 4:15,16, Paul exhorts Timothy: "Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers."

From Paul's two letters to Timothy, we see the commitment and endurance that Gospel ministry involves. He uses several physical analogies, including training (1 Timothy 4:7), "being poured out like a drink offering" (2 Timothy 4:6), and fighting the "good fight" (2 Timothy 4:7). Both Paul and Timothy had counted the costs and recognized that they were steep. Yet, they remained faithful because of the unwavering faithfulness of God. As a result, they would "endure" by relying on the God Who rescues and sustains.


Lord God, thank You for Your unwavering faithfulness. Thank You too for the Gospel ministers who have poured out themselves like drink offerings so that we might have opportunity to come into relationship with You. Give us a similar strength of character and commitment to endurance by the power of Your Holy Spirit, indwelling with us and filling us to serve out Your good purposes. In Jesus's mighty 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

Oct. 21

Psalm 89

As I read through this Psalm, I couldn't help but find parallels to today's world and yet also find hope for what lies ahead. We learn that God promised Israel that despite their disobedience, He would never break faith with them, and even though there was evil that ran rampant, there was still a remnant of faithful people that believed and held onto the promises of God. I believe in my spirit those of us who have chosen to make Jesus not only our Savior but Lord of our lives, have been set apart as the remnant. As disciples, we are called to shine a very bright light that isn't ours, into the darkness and evil that surrounds us. Being made in God's image equips our character to display God's central characteristics and in that vain I often ask myself if the spiritual task at hand is being driven by some form of a false sense of self righteousness or out of the overflow of a filling from the Holy Spirit. It's one of those reality questions that only the Holy Spirit can convict us of in order to know the truth. In today's Psalm we are reminded that without God's help, we are not capable of any spiritual tasks, no matter how small they might be. So in light of the current events, are we praying from a place victory? Do we believe God will not break faith with us? I don't know if the Psalmist knew the state the world would be in by the time we read this Psalm, but I think we can be reminded and encouraged to know that God's covenant promises will not change because God hasn't changed. Our hope rests in the fulfillment of  the prophecy of Jesus.

Randi

October 17: Of the Reason For the Pain God Permits

Jeremiah 30:1-31:26

1 Timothy 2:1-15

Psalm 87:1-7

Proverbs 25:18-19

One of the biggest hurdles to faith has been the question of evil.  Ronald Rhodes, in the book Who Made God?, tells the story of his nephew's death in a car accident, and the question that lingered at the mourning was "Why did something like this have to happen?"  

In the time of the exile, there were likely many Israelites who found themselves in Babylon wondering why conquest had to happen, and why they found themselves far from home . Where was God?  Why did He permit the captivity?  Why the tragedy of an incurable wound, an injury beyond healing, with no remedy, no healing, no allies who care to help?  Three verses arise in response:

• I have loved you with an everlasting love.
• I will discipline you but only in due measure; I will not let you go entirely unpunished.
• So you will be My people, and I will be your God.

Because God loves us, He disciplines us, so that we might once again choose to be His people, so that He can be our God.  If sin did not lead to discomfort, pain and suffering, would we ever want to return?

What then were the Israelites to do while waiting for God's salvation?  What are we to do, in the midst of the pandemic, the growing criminality, the division and worry about the elections?  Again, the Lord, through Jeremiah, is clear.  

• After I strayed, I repented; after I came to understand, I beat my breast.
• This is what the Lord says: 'Sing with joy for Jacob; shout for the foremost of the nations.  Make your praises heard, and say, "Lord, save Your people, the remnant of Israel."'

In the midst of the pain He permits to draw me back to Him, I am to repent and to be joyful.  For me, pride makes the first difficult, circumstance the second.  And yet it becomes easier if, rather than focusing on my condition, I choose to focus on His love, His mercy, and His promise.  

Father, when you discipline me to draw me back to You, give me the grace and good sense not to blame You, but instead to search my own heart for the reasons You've had to discipline me.  Help me instead to repent, that I might return to You as You desire. 

October 16: Of Prosperity Gospels in 597 BC

Jeremiah 28:1-29:32

1 Timothy 1:1-20

Psalm 86:1-17

Proverbs 25:17

Interesting: the prosperity gospel wasn't a 20th century invention after all, was it?  In today's OT reading we see two people - Hananiah and Shemaiah - who preach what the people want to hear: that, without any action on their part, the time of the Babylonian captivity is coming to an end.  It confirmed what people wanted to hear, and distracted them from the sins they'd committed against God, which had led to their captivity in the first place, and for which they were being called to repent.

Contrast them with Jeremiah who, having received a prophecy from God diametrically opposite to what the Israelites wanted to hear, nonetheless went out and preached it fervently.  He told them to get comfortable with their captivity, because they were going to have to wait seventy years before God returned them home.  Seventy years.  Not the two Hananiah was prophesying.  Seventy.  

What to take away?  A few things, perhaps: 

• First, we should be focused on what God wants for us, not what we want from God.  Because, like it or not, it is His will - not ours - that will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.  
• Second, what he wants might not be pleasant.  Seventy years in captivity, for example.  
• Third, His plans have purpose, a purpose built upon His love for us.  The call to Israel was to repent, was to return to Him.  
• And lastly, in the midst of any hardship - even seventy years' worth - we will find God if we seek Him.  And when we find Him and get to know Him, when intimacy conforms our hearts to His, then He is free to give us our hearts' desires. Because that is what He wants for us as well. 

Father, for so many reasons past, and so many more to come, there is occasion for tremendous despair, and tremendous temptation to seek the comfort of messages we want to hear.  Protect us from false prophets, give us a ravaging hunger to get to know You, and the desire to seek and obey Your will and word.

Thursday, October 15

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2020

"In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching[a] you received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone's food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate." (2 Thessalonians 3:6-9)


In this final chapter of 2 Thessalonians, Paul exhorts his friends at Thessalonica, whom he had met for just a short period of three weeks, to persevere in light of their relationship with Christ and in imitation of Paul. Some of the Thessalonians apparently had come to believe that Christ's return, while certain and possible at any time, exempted them from engagement in the world, particularly in the area of work. Their idleness, perhaps initially motivated by their faith, had become a stumbling block for them and others.

Even before the Fall, work existed. God gave Adam and Eve assignments, which were likely a great joy. God has given them the responsibility of caring for the Garden and naming the birds and animals. With the Fall, however, we understand that our relationship with God became corrupted and that our work would become a burden. The effects of sin, such as jealously, distrust, and anger, would cause disconnects between colleagues, whereas Adam and Eve had coexisted peacefully prior to the Fall.

Yet, in spite of the Fall, the Scriptures give multiple accounts of God's servants living a righteous life and, in the process, honoring God through their work. Two of my personal heroes, Joseph and Daniel, served as trusted lieutenants for powerful people. These rulers gave them challenging roles, including meaning-laden dreams and visions, but Joseph and Daniel interpreted them with the help of the Holy Spirit. They provided godly counsel to the rulers and protected the lives of their people. Daniel explicitly avoided corrupting himself with Bablyon's food. Even under pressure, he maintained his commitment to God, trusting God to support Him through it all.

How do people view our work? What messages are we giving by it? How can we become more like Joseph, Ruth, Daniel, or Esther?


Lord God, thank You for giving us clarity on the place of work in the lives of Your servants. Help us to honor You through difficult times and to provide a glimpse of Your extraordinary work through ordinary people. Strengthen us with insight and confidence in Your providence. In Jesus's mighty 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

Bible blog 14th October 2020

Bible Blog 14^th October 2020

Jeremiah 23: 21-25:38

2 Thessalonians 2: 1-17

 Psalm 84:1-12

Proverbs 25: 15

While reading psalm it's as if the writer longed to get away from the busy world to meet God inside his dwelling place. We can meet God anywhere, at any time. But we know that going into a church building can help us step aside from the busy mainstream of life so we can quietly pray and meditate. We not only find our Joy in a beautiful building but also in prayers, music, lessons, sermons and fellowship. 

The pilgrimage to the temple passed through the barren valley of Baka. Baka can mean "weeping", and it may have symbolic references to the times of struggles and tears through which people passed through on their way to meet God. Growing strong in God's presence is often led by a journey through barren places in our lives. The person who loves to spend time with God will see his or her hardship as an opportunity to experience Gods faithfulness even more deeply. If you are walking through your own valley of Baka today, be sure your pilgrimage leads toward God, not away from God.

God does not promise to give us everything we think is good, but he will not withhold what is permanently good. He will give us the means to walk along his paths, but we must do the walking. When we obey him, he will not hold anything back that will help us serve him. "Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage." Where does your strength come from? God? Or your own will-power? Have you set your heart on a pilgrimage toward God? 

We later see in Psalm the verse "Better is one day  in your courts than a thousand elsewhere." And I immediately thought of the song "Better is one day" by Matt Redman that we sang in church. What does this verse mean to you? Why would one day in God's courts be better than one thousand elsewhere? All these questions make you think and reflect on your relationship with God.

I pray that even during these times of the virtual world, that we are still able to safely go out and spend that quiet time with God, that we are still able to have fellowship. I pray that we accept God's invitation for salvation and repent of our sins, 

Amen

--

Aimee Spencer

October 10: Of Gratification

Jeremiah 14:11-16:15

1 Thessalonians 2:9-3:13

Psalm 80:1-19

Proverbs 25:1-5

If you're reading this, you probably know I've been writing these reflections for a while.  Every so often (as I did tonight: thank you, you know who you are) I get a note telling me how the reflections have been interesting, amusing, even helpful sometimes.  It feels great. But you know what feels even better?  When one of my kids does that - thanks me, leaves me a note, tells me how much I have meant to them. 

Let's go a step further - you know what feels best of all?  When my kids say nothing…but I see them take the lessons I've tried to teach them, and put them into practice.  When I see my daughter's grit and refusal to give up her musical dreams in LA, despite the disruption of the pandemic. When I find out my older son has quietly gone out of his way to comfort friends who've gone through a difficult experience.  Or when my youngest son comes to me, deeply troubled because his friend needs help.  I see this in them, and it is difficult to describe the feeling that wells up in me - joy, and gratitude, and pride, that all seek to express themselves in a sob choked back and tears I brush away.  

This must have been something of what Paul felt, who "dealt with each of [the Thessalonians] as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging [then] to live lives worth of God…". How awesome he must have felt when, having had to cut his visit with the church short, Timothy returned with news the church had not lost its way.  He says "we were encouraged about you because of your faith…for now we really live, since you are standing firm with the Lord."

Today's Old Testament reading tells us God gets angry.  I believe that, like Paul, and like me, He too feels joy when He sees us come to Him and thank Him for what He's done, even better put into practice what He hopes we will learn.  

Father, open our eyes to see all You do for us and all You want us to learn, then give us the desire to thank You, then go do as You teach us to, that we might put a smile on Your face.

October 9: Of Grapes and Children

Jeremiah 12:1-14:10

1 Thessalonians 1:1-2:8

Psalm 79:1-13

Proverbs 24:30-34

30 I went past the field of a sluggard,

    past the vineyard of someone who has no sense;

31 thorns had come up everywhere,

    the ground was covered with weeds,

    and the stone wall was in ruins.

32 I applied my heart to what I observed

    and learned a lesson from what I saw:

33 A little sleep, a little slumber,

    a little folding of the hands to rest—

34 and poverty will come on you like a thief

    and scarcity like an armed man.

- Proverbs 24:30-34

It's easy to think today's reading from Proverbs is about work - about farming a vineyard, in fact.  And it certainly would seem to be.  On further reflection, however, it would seem relevant to any number of areas in our lives.  The area that came to mind today was a parent's relationship with his child.

There is a system to planting grapes.  While they may grow wild, they do not grow well in those conditions.  The farmer has to know his vines - when they have to be watered, pruned, sometimes even just left alone, the farmer trusting God for the bounty of the harvest. 

The same is true of relationships with our children.  While they may grow in the wild, they do not grow well in those conditions.  Like the vines, parents need to get to know their children.  Let them speak - and listen.  Observe them.  Learn when they are to be nurtured, to be disciplined, sometimes even just left alone, trusting God for the bounty of their lives and your relationship.  

But let us not delay.  A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and they are no longer children, their lives cultivated by others and other influences, and all we will be left with is the poverty and scarcity of relationship we might have been able to enjoy.

Father, give us the wisdom to realize that our children do not grow by chance.  Give us intentionality and purpose, to cultivate relationships with them that we might enjoy the bountiful harvest of joyful lives together.  

October 3: Of Kipling and Paul

Jeremiah 1:1-2:30

Philippians 4:1-23

Psalm 75:1-10

Proverbs 24:17-20

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46473/if---

Rejoice in the Lord always,  I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.  Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  - Philippians 4:4-7

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.  I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do all this through Him who gives me strength. - Philippians 4:10-13

Yesterday I learned about Heather Dorniden and her amazing victory through persistence.  Got to see the end of the story, and it was great.  But the problem isn't the end of the story, is it?  It's when we are deep in the battle, when we feel like we are losing, and it seems we have no more to give.  How are we to respond?  And why?

Of all the poetry I've read, I keep coming back to Kipling's "If" (see link above).  I aspire to (and still fall so very short of) so much of what it describes.  But as good as the poem is, it falls short in two areas.  It gives us neither enough of a why, or a how.  Because when things get really rough, and we are on the verge of falling short, trusting ourselves seems like the least effective thing we could do. So where to go?

Paul picks up where Kipling leaves off.  The how we are to respond is to rejoice - and not because we are strong enough to do so, but because He gives us the strength to respond that way.  The why is because, as Paul said, knowing God is in control we can trust that in times of plenty and times of need, in times of joy and pain, health and hurt, hardship and comfort - in all these times the God who loves us is in control.  

Father, when we struggle, give us the strength we need to endure and survive the circumstances You, in Your perfect love, have chosen for us to undergo.  And through it all, give us joy in the knowledge that all this is because of Your love for us.

October 2: Of Heather Dorniden

Isaiah 66:1-24

Philippians 3:2-21

Psalm 74:1-23

Proverbs 24:15-16

"But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind, and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

Heather who?  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=70UF82nysIU

Watch the video - you'll know who Heather Dorniden is.  In an interview after the race, she was asked why she got up and ran like the wind.  She said it was for the team - because she knew the point scores were close for the teams, and if she finished, she could score at least one.  She also said she found the strength from the fans and the team that had given its all to that point.  So when she fell, she forgot that she had fallen - she forgot what was behind, got up, and pressed on towards the goal.  And she won the prize.

We are all like Heather.  Some of us find ourselves in very similar situations, situations where we fall, and it hurts so much having given our all to that point we wonder whether it is worth getting back up, we wonder why we should try.

For some, it is dealing with difficult parents.  For some others, a terrible boss and a dead end job.  Still others, it is a painful marriage, or ungrateful children, or a desperate financial situation.  I've recently drawn strength from two people I've come to admire very much - one has been sick since childhood and suffered two major surgery, yet still exudes joy.  The other, a parent whose spouse treated them terribly, and Is helping a child going through tremendous difficulty - yet still exudes gratitude. 

How do they do it?  The same way Heather did, the same way I hope to.  Heather kept her eye on the prize - my friends' prize is so much more precious.  They hang on because they count the pain they experience as loss for the sake of Christ, not worth the life they look forward to when He calls them home.  Their minds are not set on "earthly things".

Father, life gets really difficult sometimes, and when we focus on our problems, we lose hope.  Keep our eyes on You, that we might keep pressing forward despite the difficulty, despite the pain and hardship.  In Jesus's name. 

Thursday, October 1

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2020

"Whom have I in heaven but you?

  And earth has nothing I desire besides you.

My flesh and my heart may fail,

   but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." (Psalm 73:25,26)

Welcome to the fourth quarter of a very challenging year!