pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: Christ


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One in Christ

Reading: Galatians 3:6-9 and 26-29

Galatians 3:29 – “Now if you belong to Christ, then indeed you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to the promise.”

In Galatians 3, Paul is working to bring unity to the churches in Galatia. There is division between the Jewish Christians and the Gentile Christians. The division centers on the importance (or not) of the Law in terms of faith in Jesus Christ. To the Jews, this feels essential. To the Gentiles, this is a non-issue.

Paul uses Abraham as his example of someone who God declared righteous – about 430 years before the Law was given by God through Moses. It was Abraham’s belief and obedience that led God to declare him righteous. Not only that, but God also “preach the gospel in advance,” declaring that the Gentiles would be blessed (saved) through Abraham’s descendants – all in the basis of belief and obedience to the Lord Jesus.

On this basis Paul can write, “You are all God’s children through faith in Jesus Christ.” For all who are baptized into Christ, for all who profess Jesus as Lord and Savior, they have “clothed yourselves with Christ.” The old self is gone and the new has come. As one in Christ, all social, economic, ethnic, and gender divisions are gone. Clothed with Christ there are no such things as Jew or Gentile, democrat or republican, slave or free, upper class or lower class, male or female, single or married. All are one, all are equal in Christ. With this truth, Paul sums up in verse 29, writing, “Now if you belong to Christ, then indeed you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to the promise.” All who believe are blessed to inherit the promises: the salvation of your soul and the gift of life eternal. We hold these promises. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for your wife open heart- one that loves all of humanity, one that seeks a saving relationship with us all. In you there is just one kind of person: a child of God. Help us to see all who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior this way too. All equally loved, all equally belonging, may we come to truly live as one in Jesus Christ. Amen.


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Raining Down Love

Reading: Colossians 3:12-17

Colossians 3:14 – “And over all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.”

Credit: Rebecca Gelaney

Today’s reading is a call to authentic holy living. Paul begins by inviting the Colossians to being “clothed” in the practices and attitudes of Jesus. The Colossians are encouraged to put on “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” These five characteristics, when lived out fully each day, would reflect Christ to each other and to the world.

The focus then shifts to the other side of the equation: how to act and be with one another when the other isn’t practicing these Christlike traits. Paul exhorts the believers to be “tolerant with each other” and to regularly practice forgiveness. They are to do these things because God regularly does this with them.

Paul then turns to what John Wesley said “contains the whole of Christian holiness.” This one characteristic connects and undergirds all the others. In verse 14 Paul writes, “And over all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.” In all you do and say and think, lead with love. Doing so we will find that the peace of Christ does control our hearts. Leading in love we will express gratitude to God and for one another. Because of our love for our brothers and sisters in Christ, we will teach and warn each other, helping all to walk in faith.

In all things, in all ways, in all places and times, may we “do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” This witness of love holds the power to transform hearts, systems, cultures, and nations. May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, you call us to be love in the world, to bring light into the darkness. Use us as a witness that stands out from the ways of the world. Use us to rain down love into all of our relationships, into all of the brokenness, into the lives of all that we interact with. Fill us to overflowing with the spirit and heart of Christ, pouring these things back out into the world all around us. Amen.


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Focus on the Good

Reading: Romans 16:17-20

Romans 16:19 – “But I want you to be wise about what’s good, and innocent about what’s evil.”

As Paul closes his letter to the Romans, he returns to a familiar topic: Christian unity. On one level, in our age where the church has split into literally 100’s of denominations, this passage applies to individual churches. Yet on the larger level I can’t help but think that all these divisions grieves the heart of God. At what point do genuine theological differences divide and at what point is it personal preference or opinion that leads to division?

Taking broad strokes today, Paul warns us to “watch out for people who create division and problems against the teaching you heard.” Paul is talking about a core set of theological understandings about Jesus and what it means to truly follow him. My mind goes to the WWJD (What Would Jesus Do?) bracelets… that we used to wear. This question still makes a great filter for Paul’s warning. Paul continues to advice concerning these folks, writing, “Keep away from them. They are serving their own feelings.”

We all know and see people and leaders who regularly choose selfish ambition over humble service to the common good. We see people in positions of power using “smooth talk” to justify the things they are doing and saying that would make Jesus cry and weep if he were present today. In the midst of all this Paul turns to the individuals that make up the church, saying, But I want you to be wise about what’s good, and innocent about what’s evil.” In the midst of a world focused on self, you focus on the good. Love God and love neighbor. Let that be your guide. Be well aware of the evils and stay innocent of these things. And trust. Yes, trust that “the God of peace will soon crush Satan.” Lord Jesus, come soon. Come soon.

Prayer: Lord God, as churches and as believers, we have so much in common in our theologies and understandings. Use these primary matters to create more unity in the family of God. Help us to understand that secondary and tertiary matters do not have to divide us. Lead us to make better choices, to model Jesus’ love better. Gather your church to be the witness that you desire us to be. Amen.


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Love – Boldly and Completely

Reading: James 2:1-4

James 2:1 – “My brothers and sisters, when you show favoritism you deny the faithfulness of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Photo credit: Shane

The letter of James focuses on Christian identity – what it means and looks like to live as a believer as a pilgrim in a foreign land. Christians were a very small minority, whether amongst the Jews in Israel or amongst the pagans in the Roman world. The pressures and challenges of living faithfully in these settings were great. The need for close community, unity within that community, and love amongst the brothers and sisters of Christ were all essential for James and for the churches that he wrote to.

For James, Jesus was the model of faithful living. Jesus set the example of love and he redefined who was welcome in the family of God. As we turn to chapter 2, we do so with these things in mind. In verse 1 James writes, “My brothers and sisters, when you show favoritism you deny the faithfulness of our Lord Jesus Christ.” These first few words remind the believers (and us) of their deep familial connections to Jesus and to one another. This impacts how one treats and acts towards others. James continues, condemning the practice of showing favoritism. This practice is counter to Jesus’ example, therefore it is counter to being a part of the family of God and to being a part of a church community.

Treating one who is well off differently than the one who is poor is simply not what Jesus modeled. To give the one in fine clothes a preferential seat while yelling the poor person to go stand far off or to sit at other’s feet – that is becoming an “evil minded judge.” It is allowing stereotypes and prejudices to impact how we practice loving our neighbor. It is wrong in every way. It denies the image of God in the other and in ourselves. All are beloved of God. All are worthy of our love. In thought, word, and action, may we love boldly and completely.

Prayer: Lord God, it can be tempting to show preferential treatment to one person or group. Our humanity is quick to evaluate potential gain and to evaluate potential cost. In the times when we are tempted, remind us of your love for all people, especially for the least of these. With this Holy Spirit reminder, guide us to act faithfully in the way of love. Amen.


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Practice and Model…

Reading: Matthew 6:14-15

Matthew 6:14 – “If you forgive others their sins, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”

Today’s two short verses come at the end of Jesus teaching the disciples the Lord’s Prayer. This prayer is a prayer that we know by heart. Most of us recite these words each Sunday and at other times as well. Of all that Jesus taught in the Lord’s Prayer, the only part that he felt needed a little emphasis was the part about forgiveness. Did Jesus know that we would struggle with seeking and offering forgiveness?

In verses 14 and 15 Jesus emphasizes our role in being people of forgiveness. There is a feel here that if we are not people who regularly and consistently practice and Model forgiveness, then we will not be forgiven by God for our sins. This understanding does not, however, align with other passages about forgiveness in the scriptures. No other passage contains what feels like “conditions” to be forgiven by God. So then, what is Jesus getting at here in verses 14 and 15?

First, forgiveness is like love, generosity, grace, compassion, comfort… We must practice and model these facets of who and what God is. When we do, we experience God’s forgiveness, love, generosity… in deeper and more transformational ways. Living out a more Christ-like life draws us closer to Christ. Second, as we practice and model forgiveness we begin to grow into the “as far as the east is from the west,” your sin is more, practice of God. Truly understanding God’s unconditional and complete ways of forgiveness leads us to practice and model this kind of forgiveness in our lives and relationships. May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, day by day lead us to develop, to grow into, to truly live out forgiveness in the ways that you do. Being able to let go, not holding onto past hurts, not plotting getting even, it is truly freeing. In this place, we are so closely aligned to you and your heart. Draw us there, closer and closer, O God, encounter by encounter. Thank you. Amen.


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Contagious

Reading: 2nd Corinthians 7:5-7

2nd Corinthians 7:6 – “God comforts people who are discouraged, and he comforted us by Titus’ arrival.”

Photo credit: Uta Scholl

As Paul and his companions arrive in Macedonia there is no rest for the weary. There are problems – “external conflict… internal fears.” For Paul and his coworkers these trials and hardships could be barriers to ministry. But God has other plans. In verse 6 we read, “God comforts people who are discouraged, and he comforted us by Titus’ arrival.” At just the needed time, God sends Titus, bringing along the encouragement that he has received himself in Corinth. In turn, Titus encourages Paul and others there in Macedonia.

When one lives out their faith it often inspires others to live out their faith too. This isn’t just true for comfort. It also works this way with peace, joy, trust, generosity, assurance, grace, humility, mercy, contentment, forgiveness… The practices of our faith are contagious!

Titus also brings a personal message for Paul. The church in Corinth longs to see Paul. They want an opportunity to express their regret for what happened during his last visit. On that second visit Paul was deeply hurt. The church has dealt with this person but still wants to apologize and receive forgiveness face to face. This news brings Paul much happiness. To mend a relationship, to offer care and concern, to restore what was broken, these things bring us much joy and happiness too.

Where do we need to bring comfort through our words of reconciliation and grace? Where do we need to respond to the brokenness in our lives or in the world?

Prayer: Lord God, guide our lives, leading us to be people who live out a contagious faith. May the light and love of Christ in our hearts be cast wide in the world, bringing healing and wholeness to our relationships and to other’s lives. Amen.


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Ingredients for Transformation

Reading: Acts 26:15-18

Acts 26;17-18 – “I am sending you to open their eyes. Then they can turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God.”

Photo credit: Shane Rounce

In today’s reading Paul is telling his conversion and call story before King Agrippa. This is his last stop before being sent to Rome to stand trial before Caesar. As Paul is presenting his case, he starts at the beginning, on the day that he was traveling to Damascus to pursue and arrest more Christians. Blinded by a light from heaven, Paul encounters the risen Jesus. Gathering his bearings, Saul asks, “Who are you, Lord?”

Jesus identifies himself as “the one whom you are harassing.” The degree of connection that Jesus claims here is interesting. These words echo his words about “whenever you do this to one of the least of these…” (Matthew 25:40.) Jesus calls Saul, stating the he is here now “to appoint you as my servant and witness.” All the power and emotion of rage and hatred will be redirected as compassion and love. Further describing his new role, Jesus tells him, “I am sending you to open their eyes. Then they can turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God.” Through Paul many will receive salvation, forgiveness of sin, and inclusion in the family of God.

Through this experience and others that will follow, Paul is made fully Jesus’. His whole life and being will focus on making Jesus known, on bringing others to a saving faith in Christ. In neither this account or the original telling (Acts 9) do we hear Paul apologizing to Jesus or repenting of his sinful actions against Jesus and his church. But the evidence bears witness to a complete 180, to a total change of heart. Making amends, admitting fault, seeking forgiveness are all necessary ingredients for transformation. Often these happen first in the heart, opening the way to bring made new.

Prayer: Lord God, speak into our hearts, open our eyes, reveal to us the ways that we are less than you call us to be in our witness to you and to our faith. Call us forward into the plans that you have for us, strengthening and encouraging us for the journey. Amen.


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Humble Service

Reading: Matthew 23:11-12

Matthew 23:11 – “The one who is greatest among you will be your servant.”

Matthew 23 compares who the religious leaders are with who Jesus calls his followers to be. Earlier in the chapter Jesus says, “Don’t do what they do.” The religious leaders are asking the people to do things they won’t do themselves. Looking at this admonition and the other context verses, I am reminded of the show, “Undercover Boss.” The title implies the premise of the show. A couple of things usually happen on every episode. First, the boss (or the owner) has their eyes opened as they become a new hire for their company. Performing these menial tasks takes them to the core of what it meant to be a servant in Jesus’ day. Remember the disciples’ shock when Jesus washed their feet? Servant! The second regular occurrence is the boss meeting an employee who is more servant than employee. This person’s love and dedication are noteworthy, they stand out. This is what Jesus is talking about when he says, “The one who is greatest among you will be your servant.”

The second verse in today’s passage also is a regular occurrence on “Undercover Boss.” The boss is usually the one who has lifted himself or herself up (in a good way – through hard work…) Often this rising up, though, breeds pride and/or arrogance, as it has in the religious leaders of Jesus’ day. The religious leaders work hard to set themselves apart from and therefore above the people. Opposite of this, Jesus notes, “all who make themselves low will be lifted up.” This is often the case on the show with the employee who is more like a servant. The boss rewards their servant attitude with a nice promotion or a generous raise. While God doesn’t give us promotions or raises when we choose to humbly serve others, there are definitely “rewards” – joy, peace, content… – that come with living our neighbors in ways that stand out. May we choose to serve well today.

Prayer: Lord God, it can be easy to get caught up in ourselves, thinking this task or that job is “below” us. It can be hard to humble ourselves to scrub a toilet or to mow a yard or… thinking “someone” else should do that. This poor attitude soon permeates our spirit. When we struggle in these ways, O God, remind us of Christ’s example. Call us to walk in his servant footsteps. Amen.


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Worthy of the Call

Reading: Ephesians 4:1-7

Ephesians 4:2 – “Conduct yourselves with all humility, gentleness, and patience. Accept each other in love.”

Chapter 4 of Ephesians begins with Paul’s call to “live as people worthy of the call” of God. We can see this as the summary statement for what follows in the next few verses. Paul’s focus overall is the unity of the body of believers. The “church” should reflect to the world the love, grace, mercy… of God. To fail to do so greatly damages the church’s ability to witness to the world. If the world cannot see God and Christ in the church and in her actions, then the world will never listen to her words.

With these thoughts in mind, Paul gets down to specifics: “Conduct yourselves with all humility, gentleness, and patience. Accept each other in love.” Practicing these four virtues or behaviors on a regular basis will work to bring unity to the body of believers. Humility works against pride and judging – two primary dividers of any group of people. Gentleness guides our words, our thoughts, our actions, steering them away from gossip, critiquing, and harsh words and actions. Patience raises our levels of understanding concerning our differences in thought, belief, and practice, and it makes us take pause before speaking words that might cause harm or hurt. These first three virtues guide us to accept one another in genuine love, bringing peace and unity to the body of Christ.

When we as individuals and we as the church live out these Christ-following virtues, the oneness that Paul speaks of becomes evident in our lives and in our churches. This draws others towards Christ. Living a life and a faith worthy of our calling matters for us personally and it matters for the watching world. Therefore, in all things may we lift high the Lord our God.

Prayer: Lord God, living out these virtues – humility, gentleness, patience, acceptance – can be challenging. So, Lord, when we’re tempted to be less than you call us to be, whisper your words of love and grace, peace and unity into our ears. Bring before our hearts and hands the example of Christ. Empowered by these reminders, use us to build your kingdom in our hearts and here on earth. Amen.


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The Gospel of Reconciliation

Reading: 2nd Corinthians 5:14-20

2nd Corinthians 5:18 – “God… reconciled us to himself through Christ and… gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”

Our passage today sums up the heart of Paul’s gospel of reconciliation. Through his life on earth, experiencing our sinfulness and his own death, Jesus can identify with us and with our struggles. And through his death and resurrection, Jesus transformed our reality. Through Jesus Christ we are made part of the “new creation.” In this new reality we live no longer for self but for Christ.

Paul recalls a time when Jesus was known by “human standards.” He was a good teacher, maybe even a prophet of God. He could do some amazing things – but so could Moses, Elijah, Elisha… But because of Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection, believers know Jesus as God in the flesh. Through this understanding and through belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, that person is part of the “new creation.” Being made new, the old self dies, along with its sins. In this way we are made new and are reconciled to God.

For Paul though, and really for all true followers, there is a recognition that one is not “done” once one professes faith in Christ. Instead, our salvation leads to this understanding: “God… reconciled us to himself through Christ and… gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” We, like Paul, become “ambassadors” who represent Christ, sharing our faith so that others can also experience salvation and new life. God continues building the kingdom here on earth, “negotiating” through us for the salvation of lost souls. May we ever be ministers of the gospel of reconciliation and salvation!

Prayer: Lord God, we thank you for the gift given by the one who bled and died for our sins, opening the way for mercy and grace and love to reconcile us back to you. May our gratitude for this gift be expressed in how we share it with others. Amen.