pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: disciples


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A Charge to Keep

Reading: Psalm 98:4-9

Psalm 98:9a – “He is coming to establish justice on earth!”

Continuing in Psalm 98 today, the new song kicks off. All the earth shouts triumphantly to the Lord. Humanity adds lyre, trumpet, and horn to their voices. The seas roar and humanity echoes. The mountains rejoice as the rivers clap along. There is a great rejoicing when all of creation joins together to praise God. Reading these five verses, one can sense the connection that God designed between humanity and the created world. If you’ve walked quietly in the woods or sat alone on the beach or looked peacefully out from the mountaintop, you’ve likely sensed this connection between self, creation, and God. In these moments, it is as God intended it to be.

Humanity has not always gotten this intention “right.” Often we tilt the relationship in our favor, exploiting creation and even one another for our own benefit. Even though we have gotten “better,” too often we fail to treat all of creation as an intimately connected part of who we are. God recognizes this. In verse 9 the psalmist declares, “He is coming to establish justice on earth!” Since the writing of this Psalm, the verb tense has changed. Jesus has come to establish justice. He walked among us, teaching humanity about living justly with one another and with creation.

Jesus’ dual purposes – to live amongst us to teach us how to love and to die for us to free us from the power of sin and death – these meant that he could not be here forever. So he left the task of establishing justice to his disciples. Eventually this charge fell to you and me. As I look at the world, it is far from a just place for all people and for all of creation. There is much work to do. The work must begin where we are – feeding the hungry family next door, comforting the grieving elder down the street, standing with the abused spouse and children who need protection, fighting for the just treatment of the vulnerable in our communities… A charge we have to keep. May it be so until all have justice.

Prayer: Lord God, one of us cannot fix all of the injustice in the world – or even in our smallest of communities. But together… Together with you, we are powerful and mighty. Lord, walk with us, using us to bring justice to creation and to one another. Amen.


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The Glory Forever and Always

Reading: 2nd Timothy 4:16-18

2nd Timothy 4:18: “The Lord will rescue me from every evil action and will save me for his heavenly kingdom.”

Our reading today begins with Paul sharing a challenging time in his life. In verse 16 he shares that when he had to stand trial before the Roman judge (likely Caesar,) he had to stand alone. No one stood by his side. He felt abandoned, much as Jesus must’ve felt as the disciples fled into the night as he was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane. There have been, maybe are, and will be times when we feel abandoned by our friends and perhaps even by our families. We can relate to what Paul felt as he stood trial.

But Paul wasn’t alone. He shares, “The Lord stood by me and gave me strength.” God entered into his aloneness and encouraged Paul. This was so Paul’s witness to the gospel could be fully shared. In his final hours, God walked with Jesus too, empowering him to walk faithfully through a very difficult time. The Lord will do the same for us. When we seek to draw near to God in our times of need, God will draw near to us.

Turning to the long game of a steady walk with God, Paul writes, “The Lord will rescue me from every evil action and will save me for his heavenly kingdom.” Paul knows that another court date lies ahead. It might be his last trial in this life. Maybe more will come. Whatever the case, Paul knows that at the end, heaven awaits. As we face trials in this life, may we too choose to trust in God’s present and eternal promises, assured that the Lord our God will save us. Living with this trust, our lives will declare as Paul’s did, “To him be the glory forever and always!”

Prayer: Lord God, when we are abandoned by everyone who should stand by our side, remind us that you are still right there. Guide us to turn to you, the one who will never abandon or forsake us. In your presence and strength, use our witness to bring you all the glory. Amen.


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Lights to the World

Reading: Acts 13:48-52

Acts 13:50 – “However, the Jews provoked the prominent women among the Gentile worshippers… to harass Paul and Barnabas.”

Paul and Barnabas are in Antioch as our passage begins. They’ve been sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with Jews in the local synagogue. Some have come to faith in Jesus but most have not. In verse 44 the circle expands. Here we see that “almost everyone in the city” gathers to hear Paul speak. The Jews are jealous so they try to slander Paul. Filled with Holy Spirit courage, Paul quotes Isaiah 49:6 to them. The prophet speaks of being “a light to the nations” and about salvation going out “to the ends of the earth.” Talk about expanding the circle of God’s love!

In verse 48 we hear the Gentile’s reaction: “they rejoiced and honored God’s word.” Many heard Paul speak and came to believe in Jesus. The word was soon spoken throughout that region. Instead of rejoicing alongside Paul and Barnabas, “the Jews provoked the prominent women among the Gentile worshippers… to harass Paul and Barnabas.” They stirred up trouble. Their envy burned hot within them. Paul and Barnabas were forced to move on. But because of the powerful presence and work of the Holy Spirit, they left filled with happiness.

Envy and jealousy remain driving forces in our world and in our churches. They lead us to at least want to tear others down who find success when we do not. They urge us to cut corners and to skirt the rules to get what we want. They can instill hatred and contempt in our hearts when we cannot level up. And sometimes these sins will be directed at us, as they were at Paul and Barnabas. Like them, may we shake it off, rejoice in what God is doing, and continue in the work that God has placed before us.

Prayer: Lord God, all who follow Jesus are called to be lights to the world, to proclaim salvation for all people. Sometimes others find more success. Sometimes we are harassed for our efforts. In all cases, Lord, keep us focused on the charge to make disciples of all peoples. May it all be for your glory and praise! Amen.


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He Will Be There

Reading: Matthew 14:22-33

Matthew 14:25 – “Very early in the morning he came to his disciples, walking on the lake.”

Our passage begins with “Right then…” This sudden shift follows and is connected to what has just happened. Chapter 14 begins with the death of John the Baptist. Jesus hears the story from John’s disciples. Jesus tries to find solitude but the crowd follows. He heals the sick. As evening nears, filled with compassion, Jesus feeds 5,000 men plus women and children from two fish and five loaves. It is right then that Jesus sends the disciples across the lake. He dismisses the crowd and finally finds some alone time with God, time to grieve for John. This pattern is typical for Jesus and is our call too: care for others before self, but still take time to care for self. One simply cannot pour into others from a place of exhaustion and emptiness.

In verse 25 we read, “Very early in the morning he came to his disciples, walking on the lake.” Seeing him, the disciples are terrified. Yes, the Old Testament speaks of God making “a way in the sea” (Isaiah 43:16,) but this has never been done by a human. Of course they think Jesus is a ghost. Quickly he reassures them, offering encouragement, identifying himself. Peter asks for proof: “If it is you, order me to come to you on the water.” Jesus says, “Come,” and Peter begins to walk on the water. When have you observed someone doing something amazing, been encouraged to join them, and started doing what they’re doing? Although likely not walking on water, when willing we can do what we thought beyond ourselves when encouraged to believe that we can.

Unfortunately Peter gets distracted and sinks back to the base line. Fear overtakes his faith. So too is it with us. Our human weaknesses impact our faith. Just as Jesus was there for Peter, he will be there for us too, reaching out a hand, helping us back to our place of comfort, calming our storms. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, when and where will you call us out of the boat today? How will you move us beyond where we think we can go? Lord, when you do, make us ready and willing. Trusting in you, guide us to step forward. Amen.


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The Moment of Connection

Reading: Matthew 19:29-34

Matthew 19:32 – “What do you want me to do for you?”

The scene is Jericho. This is the place that the walls came tumbling down almost 400 years ago. It was Israel’s entry point into and first victory in the Promised Land. The presence of the Lord was there as Joshua led the army around the city and the Lord’s presence is there as two blind men cry out.

As our passage opens, Jesus, the disciples, and a large crowd are leaving Jericho. From here Jesus will turn towards Jerusalem, entering the city for the final week leading up to the cross. In Matthew’s gospel this healing is followed by Jesus’ triumphal entry we celebrate as Palm Sunday. Is this Jericho crowd the same crowd that will cheer and shout “Hosanna…” as Jesus rides into Jerusalem?

Knowing all that lay ahead Jesus must’ve had a lot on his mind and heart. Imagine how you would be if you knew you had one week to live and you had much to accomplish in that week. As Jesus… is passing by, two blind men shout out, “Show us mercy, Lord, Son of David!” The crowd tries to hush them, but they just shout louder. Jesus hears them. He “stopped in his tracks.” We cannot miss this detail. All else becomes totally unimportant to Jesus. Focusing on these two blind men, Jesus asks them, “What do you want me to do for you?” They want to see. Jesus restores their sight. They follow Jesus.

May we do as Jesus did. May we notice the cry of the one in need, ignoring the noise of the crowd. May we stop and turn our whole focus to the one God places in our path. May we clarify what they say they need. And then may we work to meet their need, either personally or through connecting them to those who can meet their need.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for this example of empathy, presence, and compassion. Enable and empower us to do as Jesus did. Lord, stop us in our tracks when we hear the cry for help. Guide us to be Christ’s presence in the moment of connection. Use us then to meet the need, however we can. In all things, may you be glorified and lifted up. Amen.


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He Is Alive!

Reading: John 20:1-18

John 20:18 – “Mary Magdalene left and announced to the disciples, ‘I’ve seen the Lord!'”

The first Easter long ago began quietly, with Mary Magdalene making her way to the tomb in the time just before dawn. It was light enough out to see that the stone was moved. She goes and tells Peter and John. They come and look. They see the grave cloths lying there. Peter and John leave, not understanding what has happened.

Mary remains, undeterred from her focus. Taking a second look inside, she see two angels. She inquires of them – sort of. She tells them that the body is missing. Mary turns and faces a person. She doesn’t recognize him as Jesus – yet. He asks her why she is crying and who she is looking for. Again, the same response: “If you’ve carried him away…”

“Mary.” Jesus speaks her name. She recognizes the voice and maybe the feeling in speaking her name. At times Jesus speaks our names too. It’s often when we’re distraught or overwhelmed or… It might not be audible but he does call, beckoning us back to the place of peace…

Jesus gives Mary instructions: go and tell the others. In verse 18 we read, “Mary Magdalene left and announced to the disciples, ‘I’ve seen the Lord!'” The first evangelist shares the good news of Jesus Christ for the very first time. He is alive! Yes, Jesus is alive!! Hallelujah!!

Prayer: Lord God, what great news! Life and hope, joy and peace – all bundled up together. The cross and the grave have been defeated..sin and death no longer hold sway or have power over us. As Jesus calls our name, O God, tune our hearts and ears to that call. Thank you. Amen.


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A Saving Faith

Reading: John 20:24-31

John 20:29 – “Do you believe because you see me? Happy are those who don’t see and yet believe.”

On the first Sunday, when Jesus came to the disciples, Thomas was not with them. After the disciples tell Thomas about it, he declares, “Unless I see the nail marks…” Thomas wants physical proof. We’ve been there. We’ve heard something that was too amazing to believe. In response, we say or think, “When I see it with my own eyes…”

A week later the disciples are gathered , still hiding behind closed doors. It is again a Sunday. (At this point, in their culture, they counted that day too.) Jesus enters into their midst – a sign of Jesus’ divinity and his risen nature. After greeting the disciples, Jesus offers Thomas his hands and side. It is the physical proof that Thomas demanded. Jesus then says to Thomas, “No more disbelief. Believe!” Thomas responds with a confession of faith: “My Lord and my God!” Thomas connects to the human and divine natures of Jesus, recognizing both as worthy of following and worshipping, respectively.

Jesus, speaking to those present, to us today, and to all who will read this story, says, “Do you believe because you see me? Happy are those who don’t see and yet believe.” Generation after generation will come to faith in one not physically seen. In summary, in what some scholars believe to be the original ending to John’s gospel, he writes, “These things are written so that you will believe that Jesus is the Christ, and that believing, you will have life in his name.” May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, even though we do not physically see Jesus, his presence can be “seen” everywhere in our lives. As we love our neighbors, as we serve those in need, as we walk with one another through the valleys, evidence of your Son’s presence is manifested in and through us. Use our witness to draw others to a saving faith. Amen.


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Embolden and Empower

Reading: John 20:19-23

John 20:21 – “Peace be with you. As the Father sent me, so I am sending you.”

Following the risen Lord’s encounter with Mary Magdalene, Jesus goes to the disciples later that first day. They have heard the news from Mary. But simply hearing these words does not change their current reality. No one has ever been resurrected in this way. What it means is totally unknown. Fear is what the disciples primarily know at this point. They just killed Jesus. What is in store for his followers?

Standing amongst the disciples, Jesus says, “Peace be with you.” This standard Jewish greeting meant more now. For example, we casually say, “How’s it going?” to friends today. Or, to a friend struggling with grief, we can look them in the eye and ask, “How are you doing?” After showing the disciples physical signs of his identity, Jesus says, “Peace be with you. As the Father sent me, so I am sending you.” The disciples are to continue the work of Jesus. To make this possible, Jesus breathes on them and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” This indwelling presence of Christ himself will lead and guide, strengthen and encourage, embolden and empower the disciples as they return to the world.

Jesus also reminds the disciples of what that work looks like. As people of peace, they are to work at reconciliation. This task involves reconciling people to God and to one another. Our sin is what separates us from both. As people of peace, this work of reconciliation continues to be our task. Emboldened and empowered by the Holy Spirit, may it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, breathe anew the Holy Spirit into our lives this day. Guide us to claim the Spirit’s power and Christ’s peace as we seek to bring healing and wholeness to our sinful and broken world. May this work begin within as we reconcile ourselves to you and to one another. Amen.


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More Is Better

Reading: John 13:1-9

John 13:7 – “Jesus replied, ‘You don’t understand what I’m doing now, but you will understand later.”

The scene today is the celebration of the Passover meal. Present are Jesus and the twelve disciples. This is the fourth time in four weeks that we’ve read about this night. In Matthew, Mark, and Luke the focus is on the sharing of the bread and the cup, on the establishment of the new covenant. In all three the story then moves to the garden and on to arrest. In John’s gospel there is no bread or cup. John places the meal about half way through his story. Much is spoken by Jesus before his arrest happens in John 19. This is but one example of John’s disregard for time and historical sequence.

As chapter 13 begins we see that Jesus’ knows that “his time had come to leave this world.” Ever the one to love and serve, Jesus leaves the disciples one more tangible example of both. The meal is under way. Jesus knows that Judas will betray him. Jesus gets up, takes off his robes, and begins washing and drying the disciples’ feet. There is great symbolism in Jesus’ act. Taking off his robes is symbolic of taking off divinity to dwell in the flesh. Kneeling and performing this lowly, menial task is symbolic of how we are to serve others. The washing itself is symbolic of baptism, where our sins are washed away.

When Jesus comes to Peter, he protests. Jesus replies, “You don’t understand what I’m doing now, but you will understand later.” We also experience this is our faith journeys. Only later, through prayer or study or through the Holy Spirit’s presence do we come to understand what Jesus did for us. After some back and forth, the all-in Peter asks Jesus to wash his hands and feet too. If a little Jesus is good, more is better. While this is true, often it is only later that we, like Peter, truly understand what it is that we are asking for.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you first for the call to love and serve. It is who and what we are called to be as followers of Jesus. Grant us the courage and the willingness to do even the lowest things in our efforts to love and serve the other. And, Lord, lead us to seek to be more and more like Jesus. Empower us to do whatever you place before us. Amen.


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Shining the Light

Reading: Luke 22:39-53

Luke 22:53b – “But this is your time, when darkness rules.”

On the Mount of Olives, in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus goes to God in prayer. This was a place Jesus went to regularly. He invites the disciples to pray too, so that they “won’t give in to temptation.” Moving away from them, Jesus prays earnestly, so much so that he sweats profusely and needs angelic strengthening. His prayer reveals both his humanity and his understanding of his purpose. In this hardest moment, Jesus ponders if the “cup of suffering” can be taken away. Then, in obedience, he prays, “not my will but your will must be done.” He returns to the disciples and finds them sleeping, “overcome with grief.”

At times we will struggle or waver. The thing God is asking of us is hard, maybe feels risky, possibly includes a cost. So we teeter. At times we do step forward. Other times we choose the easier way. In our own way we too “sleep,” giving in to the temptation of non-obedience. As we grow in our faith, as we mature, we come to better understand our purpose in the kingdom of God. While we’ll still fail, the frequency lessens.

The story continues as the mob arrives to arrest Jesus. A disciple starts to defend Jesus. He quickly halts the violence, healing the injury, reminding the disciples of who he is and who he is not. Jesus questions the mob – the swords and the clubs. He reminds them of his daily presence in the temple. The implied question is, “Why didn’t you arrest me there?” Jesus answers this unspoken question: “But this is your time, when darkness rules.” In an isolated place, under cover of darkness, Jesus is arrested.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for this look into Jesus’ humanity, into his struggle. In our battles with obedience, remind us of this moment. May we draw upon strength moving forward, upon grace in failure. Encourage us to be people of the light, shining your love and power into the darkness of this world. Amen.