pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

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Faithful Obedience

Reading: Romans 1:1-7

Romans 1:6 – “You who are called by Jesus Christ are also included among the Gentiles.”

Today we turn to Paul’s greeting in his letter to the believers in Rome. He is writing to a group that he has not met, to a church founded by others. This unfamiliarity is the reason for the longer than normal greeting. Paul begins by identifying himself – a “slave of Christ” and an apostle “set apart for God’s good news.” These two descriptors tells much about how Paul saw himself and about how he thinks all believers should be. More than any other New Testament writer, Paul paints a clear line between following the ways of Jesus and the ways of the world. Being 100% committed, living 24/7 for Christ, that was the only way to follow Jesus. Like a slave, faithful obedience was required in one’s relationship with Jesus Christ.

Paul also leans heavily into the idea of being set apart. This might come from his Jewish background. The Jews saw themselves as the chosen people, marked and set apart by God. Prior to meeting Jesus, that was a tightly closed and exclusive circle for Paul. After meeting Jesus, Paul wanted to loop that circle around as many people as possible. This Jesus who was raised from the dead and who offered grace to all who sought to live in “faithful obedience” – he is the good news. To the church in Rome and to the church today, Paul writes, “You who are called by Jesus Christ are also included among the Gentiles.” You, me, we all are called to share the good news of Jesus Christ with all the world so that they too may know the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Lord God, use us today to expand the circle. Use our faithful obedience to the will and way of Jesus Christ as a witness to the lost and the lonely, to the hurting and the broken, to the self-assured and the powerful. In and through us and our living may the world come to know the good news of Jesus Christ. Amen.


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We Are All Called

Reading: Luke 1:42-55

Luke 1:52 – “He [God] has pulled the powerful down from their thrones and lifted up the lowly.”

Photo credit: Fuu J

Our passage today begins as Elizabeth welcomes Mary into her home. She “blurted out” a greeting, so moved was she by what is stirring inside of her. Moved by the child she carries and by the Spirit, Elizabeth celebrates God’s blessings upon Mary. She ponders aloud why she is honored to be visited by the one carrying the Lord in her womb. Elizabeth rejoices that Mary said “yes” to God’s invitation to bear the Savior of the world.

In verses 46-55 we find what is often called the “Magnificat.” This Latin word translates “magnify” and that is what Mary does in her praise song to God. Mary rejoices over finding God’s favor, in being lifted from low to high. She also rejoices in the opposite reality that is also part of God’s upside-down kingdom, singing, “He [God] has pulled the powerful down from their thrones and lifted up the lowly.” As Mary continues she notes that the hungry are filled and the rich are left empty-handed. With eyes of faith Mary sees that through this unfolding, miraculous birth story, God is coming to Israel, just as promised in the covenants of old.

Both Elizabeth and Mary represent people who heard and felt God’s call upon their lives. Both willingly stepped forward in faith, humbly offering their lives to bring God the glory. While we may not receive an angelic visit (or we might,) God still clearly speaks by the whispers and nudges of the Holy Spirit. We are all called, in one way or another, to humbly offer our lives for God’s glory. May it be so when we’re called.

Prayer: Lord God, draw us deeper into our daily walk with you. Open our souls and our spirits to your story of faith that has been unfolding down through the generations. Engaged in the story, give us a willing heart to step into the story as you call us forward. Enable us to hear the calls and empower us to say “yes.” In all things may our lives bring you the glory and the praise. Amen.


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Keep at the Walk

Reading: Mark 16:1-8

Mark 16:7 – “Go, tell the disciples… You will see him there, just as he told you “

Photo credit: Aaron Burden

As originally written, Mark’s gospel seems to end abruptly and without resolution. It ends with the women fleeing in fear. They were so afraid, they didn’t say anything to anyone. That’s the original ending point. In the fourth and second centuries one verse 9 and verses 9-20 were added, respectively. In these additions the women do tell and the risen Jesus does appear to his followers. But Mark’s original ending, it really does beg the question: Why end it there, that way?!

Mark’s whole gospel is aimed at getting the church to be the church. The teachings he chooses and the parables Mark employs are all aimed at reminding the church of how Jesus taught and called them to live in the world. Chapter 16 is no different.

Mary, Mary, and Salome go and buy spices to anoint a body. Their hopes were dashed at the cross. Here they do the next thing. Church, disappointment and apparent failure will come. Keep doing the next thing. The women worry about the stone. They wonder who will move it. Here God does a thing. Church, if you are faithful, trust God to act. Inside the empty tomb an angel gives them instructions. They’re afraid. They do nothing. But we’re reading these words so the story doesn’t really end this way. Church, when God speaks something to you that feels scary or risky or hard to believe, say or do it anyway. Believe in God’s whispers, nudges, and movements. Then be amazed by what God does. This story is ongoing. The call to keep at the walk of faith, to trust and believe, to be amazed by God – that’s still our story. May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, help us to be the faithful church. Guide us on an obedient walk. When there is struggle, when there is disappointment, when there is uncertainty, when there is fear and worry – whisper words of love, nudge us with your presence, move alongside us. Use us as your church. Amen.


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Anointed for Service

Readings: Leviticus 8:10-12 and 1st Samuel 16:6-13

1st Samuel 16:13 – “So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him… The Lord’s Spirit came over David from that point forward.”

During the high priest’s ordination Aaron is cleansed and then dressed in the tunic, robe, vest, chest piece, turban, and gold flower ornament. Dressed for service to the Lord, Moses first anoints the Tabernacle and all in it – the altar and its equipment, the basin and its base. As Moses anoints these items, they are made holy. Lastly, Moses pours anointing oil on Aaron’s head, making him holy. This anointing proclaims Aaron’s special standing before the Lord on behalf of Israel.

In the first verse of 1st Samuel 16, God tells Samuel to fill his horn with oil and to head to Bethlehem, adding, “I have found the next king.” In today’s second reading we join the story as Samuel arrives at Jesse’s house. Eliab begins the procession before Samuel. Tall, strong, the oldest – he must be the one. God says no. God tells Samuel that God looks past physical appearance and looks into the heart. Seven sons pass before Samuel. He anoints none.

I imagine an awkwardness settled over the room. Samuel has to ask Jesse, “Is that all of your boys?” Well, no. The youngest is brought in from tending the sheep. God says, “That’s the one.” In the next verse we read, “So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him… The Lord’s Spirit came over David from that point forward.” Anointed, David is filled with God’s presence, readied for service. Anointed, Aaron is able to stand in God’s presence. Today may we be anointed by God’s Holy Spirit, set apart for service in the kingdom of God.

Prayer: Lord God, in days of old you called those you chose, anointing them with oil, claiming them as your own. In these days, pour out your Spirit upon us, your children. Empower and embolden us to live out our faith in the world, serving you and neighbor as we share your love with those in need, as we bring your light to those dwelling in darkness. Amen.


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Hope in Christ

Reading: Romans 1:1-3:20

Romans 3:9 – “We have already stated the charge: both Jews and Greeks are all under the power of sin.”

In his introduction Paul describes himself as “set apart” to be an apostle “for the good news.” He has received God’s grace and his appointment through Jesus Christ, the Son identified through his resurrection from the dead.

Paul begins with thanksgiving for the faith evident in the church in Rome. He has prayed for the church and for a visit to this church. Paul sees a visit as mutually encouraging. Paul is ready to “preach the gospel” in Rome. To Paul it is “God’s own power for salvation” for all who believe. The gospel has the power to save one from God’s wrath, which comes because of “ungodly behavior and injustice.” The challenge in avoiding God’s wrath comes because sin is in our human nature. We are also prone to “trade God’s truth for a lie.” We can be tempted and can allow greed, jealousy, lust, gossip, pride, and many other sins to separate us from God. We can easily fall into the judgment trap that Paul describes in the opening to chapter 2.

Paul addresses the Law in chapter 2. It is not those who have the Law that are righteous, but those who do and practice the Law that are righteous. Through Christ the Gentiles have the Law “written on their hearts.” It is those who are “circumcised in spirit” that do good and are pleasing to God.

Our reading today closes with the universal problem of sin. Paul states that both Jews and Greeks are “all under the power of sin.” Blending together four Psalms and a passage from Isaiah, Paul comes to this conclusion regarding non-believers: “There is no fear of God in their view of the world.” Although this sounds hopeless, in Christ there is home. Establishing the need as Romans begins, Paul next lays out the solution.

Prayer: Lord God, we are indeed sinful by nature. Daily we struggle with pride and greed, with jealousy and judging. Only you can save. So we ask you, O Lord, to guide us in your ways. Save us. Amen.


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Called… Mine

Reading: Isaiah 40-44

‭Isaiah 43:10-11 – “Before me no god was formed; after me there has been no other. I, I am the LORD, and there is no savior besides me.”

Photo credit: Patrick Schneider

Today we begin Second Isaiah. We’ve skipped forward about 140 years. Written during the time of the Babylonian exile, this section offers promises of deliverance, forgiveness, renewal, and a return to the Promised Land. The prophet is not shy about reminding Israel and Judah about their past disobedience, especially their foolishness in worshipping idols.

Chapter 40 declares that God’s people have paid their penalty. God will now clear a “way in the desert” so that God can gather and tend to the flock. The theme is picked up in chapter 43, where we read that God will gather them from the east, west, north, and south. God will do a new thing, making “paths in the wilderness.” Our reading closes with God declaring that the Promised Land will be resettled, that the cities will be rebuilt, and that the temple “will be founded again.” What words of hope and promise for a people living in exile.

A large portion of today’s reading focuses on who and what God is. This was essential to return home. They needed to again know God as creator, maker, defender, redeemer. Again and again God asks questions like, “Who is my equal?” Well, no one. In chapter 43 we read, “Before me no god was formed; after me there has been no other. I, I am the LORD, and there is no savior besides me.” The implication is that there is only one God to love, only one God to worship.

The prophet also gives some attention to the worthlessness of idols. God invites them to speak – they can’t. God invites them to do something – they can’t. The same is true for us today. Our money, our possessions, our titles, our followers on social media – in the big picture, these too are all worthless. May we instead choose to worship the Lord our God, the one who says to each of us, “I have called you by name; you are mine.”

Prayer: Lord God, you are the waymaker, the one true God. You formed us in the womb, designed us to live in relationship with you. When we fall off the path, you call us back again and again, so great is your love and mercy. Lead and guide us to walk in your light and love today. Amen.


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Wedding Clothes

Reading: Matthew 22:11-14

Verse 12: “How did you get in here without wedding clothes, friend?”

Jametlene Respk

The wedding hall has been filled with guests – “both good and bad.” All we’re invited to come. As we continue in Matthew 22, the king comes and begins to mingle with the guests. Soon he noticed a man who was not dressed properly. The king says to the man, “How did you get in here without wedding clothes, friend?” While we might be puzzled by this question, Jesus’ audience would’ve known good and well that you dress (and act) for the occasion, especially if you’re invited by the king!

The man in question is bound and tossed into the darkness, where he will weep and gnash his teeth. This harsh metaphor is the reality that some people will face when they meet the King of kings. Then comes the point of the parable: “Many are invited but few are chosen.”

It can be tempting to respond to God’s invitation as this man did. He thought that he could just show up and be acceptable. Here is where some context is really important. Jesus is saying that there is a big difference between being called and being chosen. We are all called into a relationship with Jesus. Matthew’s audience would also understand that the wedding clothes were a metaphor for clothing oneself in Christ. To accept and live out Christ’s invitation into relationship was to put on Christ’s love, mercy, grace, forgiveness, compassion, hospitality… Understanding this, we can turn to our important question for today: Are you dressed in the proper attire for the great banquet of Christ?

Prayer: Lord God, day by day, as you call me into humble service, may I make the very intentional choice to clothe myself in Christ. Help me to soak in your word, to open my eyes and ears and heart to your Holy Spirit, and to find the strength and courage to live faithfully and righteously each day. Amen.


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Leaders and Mentors

Reading: Judges 4: 4-5

Verse 4: “Deborah, a prophetess… was leading Israel at that time”.

Deborah was a woman who led the nation of Israel for a period of time. Under her leadership and guidance, the people were freed from the rule of foreign kings and enjoyed peace for forty years. Deborah was the leader or judge because of her connection to God. As a prophet Deborah heard the word of God and used God’s direction to lead the people, to settle disputes, to guide military leaders. She relied on God to show her how to lead and to have the words to speak. The people looked up to Deborah and saw her as their leader because God’s connection to her was clearly evident.

As I think back over my life of faith, I can identify people who were Deborahs to me. In times of uncertainty their words guided me and helped me through. In times of suffering or trial, their words brought me comfort and strength. In times of difficult decisions, their words helped discern the correct path. I sought these men and women out because I saw God’s presence in their lives and because they had walked the path I was walking. As I have turned to more mature Christians, God has used their willingness to help me along on my spiritual journey. Like Deborah, they have freely given of themselves, patiently leading and mentoring me in the ways of God. I am grateful for their love and care, for their investment in me as a fellow believer.

As we each continue on our journeys of faith, we too may be called upon to be a Deborah. It might be for our church, for our community, for a family member, for a friend… As we grow in our relationship with God, his presence becomes more and more evident in our lives. When we are called upon as leaders and/or mentors, may we step forward as humble servants, leading and guiding as the Lord our God directs us.

Prayer: Lord God, on my journey of faith, help me to discern when to lead and what to seek the guidance and direction of others. Speak to me by the power of the Holy Spirit, allowing me to live in a way that is pleasing and glorifying to you. Keep me humble, turning to wiser and more mature Christians when other voices are needed. Continue to lead and guide me, O Lord. Amen.


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In His Footsteps

Reading: 1st Peter 2: 19-25

Verse 25: “For you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls”.

Today our passage contains a reference to sheep and/or shepherds. This metaphor carries us through this week. Sheep were plentiful in Palestine. The landscape and climate were not well-suited to cattle; sheep were the primary source of both meat and wool. Sheep are funny critters. In that way, they are a lot like us. But the commonalities do not end there. Although generally good followers, at times sheep will wander. Although exclusively loyal to the voice of their shepherd, at times they do not understand or remember the words spoken. Although docile and timid in general, on occasion they become playful or rambunctious – depending on your perspective. Although not known as trouble makers, once in a while sheep will get into a spot or predicament that does require some maneuvering to get back out of. Some suffering may be required.

In 1st Peter 2 today we read about times of suffering for our faith. Peter reminds us, “to this you were called”. Peter is writing within the context of submitting to masters. He includes kings, governors, and slave owners in the list of masters. We would have different titles today, but the principles remain the same. We are still called to respect and submit to authority. In our lives Jesus has the ultimate authority. That is one of Peter’s points. In our day and age, being obedient to Christ can bring some suffering our way. In our land that usually looks like a little ridicule, maybe some ostracizing, and possibly a little self-denial. Once in a while our faith may lead us to take a stand or to enter into a situation that brings some adversity or a bit of discomfort. These are not situations that we step into lightly – especially the second or third or… times. They come with a cost. Yet this is precisely what Peter is calling us to when he writes, “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps”. Whether it was injustice or oppression or false religion or unethical behavior, Jesus stepped in and confronted it head on. And there was always a cost. None of us have to look far to find an ill or a difficult situation that needs addressed. We are called to follow in the footsteps of our Shepherd. Instead of sheep simply going astray, may we boldly and courageously follow in Jesus’ footsteps. May we each shine light into the darkness, building the kingdom here on earth.

Prayer: Dear God, give me courage both to see and to act. Lead me into the darkness, that your light and love may be known. Gird me up, making me willing to pay the cost for you and for the building of your kingdom here in this place. Go with me, O God. Amen.


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Salt and Light

Reading: Matthew 5: 13-16

Verses 13 and 14: “You are the salt of the earth… you are the light of the world”.

In today’s reading we are called to affect our world. Jesus says, “You are the salt of the earth… you are the light of the world”. To understand what he means by this, let us look at each term as it applies to faith in the world.

Salt had two main functions in Jesus’ day. The first was to preserve. Salt was liberally applied to meat and fish to extend its useful life. It keep the food safe, preventing it from spoiling. When our faith is sprinkled throughout our life, it helps us to persevere and it keeps our walk ‘good’ – living in a way that is pleasing to God. Salt also flavors that which it touches. It brings out the flavor in foods. Our faith should flavor all we do and say as well as flavoring everyone we encounter. Our good should act to bring out the good in others, making their lives better.

Jesus also calls us to be light. Light illuminates things. Doing so it chases away darkness. Jesus encourages us to allow our faith to be light in the world, not just in our own private way. He says to treat it like a lamp, putting it “on a stand” – up high so that all can be affected by our faith. Faith as a light functions in at least three ways. First, it can be a light that reveals darkness (sin) in our own lives as well as in the lives of others. Second, our faith can be a light that guides our path as we as the path of others. And, third, our faith reveals God in us and can reveal God to others, working so that “they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven”. When our faith is something good that others can see, it draws them in and makes them curious about what we have.

Each day we all have opportunities to be salt and light to the world. Sometimes these opportunities feel minor and sometimes we are challenged by the opportunity that God gives us. We are called to be salt and light. God promises to be with us, to go before us, to be present to us in all things. Accordingly, may we trust the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us, using each of us to do God’s will as salt and light in the world.

Prayer: Father God, may all I do and say flavor and illuminate my walk and the walk of those I meet. Use me to connect others to you. Thank you too God for all who have been salt and light to me on my walk of faith. Praise God that they took the opportunity to walk with me! Amen.