pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

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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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Choose God

Reading: Jeremiah 32:1-3a and 6-15

Jeremiah 32:2 – “The army of the Babylonian king surrounded Jerusalem, and the prophet Jeremiah was confined to the prison quarters.”

As we turn to Jeremiah 32 things look bleak for Jerusalem. To the north, Nebuchadnezzar’s army had surged through Israel, defeating the northern kingdom swiftly and completely. The wave of terror and destruction then turned south, aiming for Jerusalem, the capital of the southern kingdom of Judah. The Babylonians buzzed through the towns and smaller cities north of Jerusalem in short order. During this time, the prophet Jeremiah spoke the word of the Lord to Judah’s King Hezekiah. Jeremiah’s words of accountability and doom landed him in prison. This is the context as we read, “The army of the Babylonian king surrounded Jerusalem, and the prophet Jeremiah was confined to the prison quarters.” It was a very dark time for Jeremiah and for Judah.

In the midst of this difficult time Jeremiah receives a word from God. He is told that a cousin is coming to sell him some land. The instructions from God: buy it. Judah has just watched Israel get decimated and hauled off into exile. Buy land? Now? That’d be like buying land on the Florida coast as a category 6 hurricane draws close to shore. But the cousin shows up and Jeremiah buys the land. This is an act of faith. His actions enact the word of God that Jeremiah speaks next: “The Lord proclaims: Houses, fields, and vineyards will again be bought in this land.” The winds are really picking up and the rain has started falling, but all will one day be okay. God is in control. This storm too will pass.

Jeremiah reminds us today that even in the darkest times, God is present and God is in control. When the enemy surrounds us, when the storm clouds build, we can choose to find shelter in the Lord. Yes, fear, doubt, worry… – they rise up in us. Yet in those moments, we can choose to turn to God, to allow the power of God’s presence to bring peace and strength, light and hope to our hearts. May this be our choice. May we trust into the Lord.

Prayer: Lord God, draw close to us in those moments when fear rises, when hope feels lost. Through your presence assure and encourage us. Bring us under the shadow of your wings. Thank you, O God. Amen.


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Loving, Obeying, Clinging

Reading: Deuteronomy 30:15-20

Deuteronomy 30:19-20 – “Now choose life… by loving the Lord your God, by obeying his voice, and by clinging to him.”

Photo credit: Nick Fewings

In today’s reading Moses speaks about the clear choice between life and death. On the surface Moses presents this choice as black and white. Throughout the Bible the choice between sinful and faithful living is almost always presented in this way. The reality, though, is that we often live in the gray. But this all-or-none approach applies to most of life. Running a race – you don’t hope to come in third. Applying for jobs – you don’t hope to settle for the job fifth on your list. Looking for a lifelong spouse – you don’t hope for one that’ll probably work out.

As Israel prepares to enter the Promised Land the giver of the Law holds up the ideal: obey the commands, love God, walk in God’s ways. Moses tells them, if you do so, “then you will live and thrive.” This is what we aim for in life – first place, dream job, perfect spouse. It is what we are called to aim for in faith – except we’d define “success” a little differently. In our reading, Moses gives us a great definition: “Now choose life… by loving the Lord your God, by obeying his voice, and by clinging to him.”

Moses, typically the Law guy, gives a description that is more “faith” than “religion,” more about a way of being in the world rather that about how to behave in the world. If we choose this relational walk of faith, rather than checking off a list of rules, then we are less likely to turn away from God or to worship other gods. Walking and living in a relationship with God, we will live and thrive. May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, today we hear the clear choice: choose you or choose self and the world that comes with it. While we do live in between, Lord, help us to choose your will and way more and more each day as we strive to grow closer and closer to you. Empower, encourage, and strengthen us moment by moment as we desire to love you more fully and to walk in your ways more completely, clinging to you always. You are our only hope. 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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Stay Strong, Trust God

Reading: 1st Thessalonians 2:9-13

1st Thessalonians 2:13 – “When you accepted God’s word that you heard from us, you welcomed it for what it truly is.”

Paul rejoices in the work that God allowed him and his companions to do in Thessalonica. With great courage and deep love they shared the good news of Jesus Christ. Not only that, but they also shared life together. They lived in and amongst the people. As we turn to verse 9 Paul reminds them of how they worked, supporting themselves, so as not to be a burden to those that they shared Christ with.

Not only did Paul and companions share the words of Jesus with the people of Thessalonica but they also lived out the example set by Jesus. These missionaries were “holy, just, and blameless.” They treated the people as a father treats his very own children. Setting the example, Paul reminds them of how he and his fellow servants of Jesus Christ “appealed to… encouraged… pleaded” with the Thessalonians to “live lives worthy of the God who is calling you.”

Paul then reminds them of their initial response: “When you accepted God’s word that you heard from us, you welcomed it for what it truly is.” Paul is thankful for this acceptance and for how the life of faith then worked itself out in the lives of these new believers. These reminders, these words of encouragement, they are meant to help the Thessalonicans to stay strong in the faith and to continue to trust God. May these words of Paul remind and encourage us to as we reflect on our profession of faith and on our journey with Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Lord God, we too once received the word and made the decision to follow Jesus. We too can think of those who were part of this decision and can think of others who have walked with us on our ongoing journey. This day, Lord, we ask you to keep the fire burning, to strengthen and encourage us to live lives that are holy, just, and blameless. Thank you, Lord Jesus. Amen.


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Treasured and Strong in the Lord

Reading: Daniel 10:8-19

Daniel 10:12 – “From the day you first set your mind to understand things and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard.”

In today’s passage Daniel is encouraged by an angel sent from heaven. Daniel needs some encouragement because he has just been told of the future destruction of Jerusalem. The temple and city were destroyed about 70 years ago, when Israel’s exile began. Since then he has been praying for rebuilding. Daniel was told that, yes, it will be rebuilt. His prayer will be answered. But it will be destroyed again. This is the news that drove Daniel to mourn, fast, and pray for 21 days. As he is encouraged, Daniel needs strength for the next vision about to come to him.

As Daniel’s encounter with the man from heaven begins, he falls to the ground. Both the encounter and the fast have sapped his strength. Daniel is helped us and then hears these words: “From the day you first set your mind to understand things and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard.” The angel has come in response to Daniel’s prayers. But it was not an easy journey. This angel fought with “the leader of the Persian kingdom” for 21 days – the length of the fast. Unable to defeat this power of evil, the angel Michael came and took over this cosmic battle, freeing the unnamed angel to go on to Daniel. This cosmic battle between good and evil remains an ever present reality.

After admitting that he was troubled by the previous vision, Daniel is again strengthened, both physically and spiritually. The angel tells Daniel, “Don’t be afraid. You are greatly treasured. All will be well with you. Be strong!” With these words and renewed strength, Daniel is ready to hear the next vision about the future.

In times when we are weak or troubled or struggling, may we recall these words that are true for all who are faithful to God: You are treated by God. All will be well. God is with you.

Prayer: Lord God, there will be times when the future looks cloudy or when the days at hand are really hard. In these moments or seasons, touch us, give us strength and courage. Assure us of your presence, leading and guiding us according to your good plans for us. Amen.


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Be Faithful

Reading: Luke 18:1-8

Luke 18:7 – “Won’t God provide justice to his chosen people who cry out to him day and night?”

In today’s passage Jesus teaches about persistent prayer and staying encouraged. He uses the story of a widow who has suffered an injustice as the teaching tool. The widow has only herself. She is alone in her quest for justice. We too can feel this way at times.

The other character in the story is the unjust judge. This judge “neither feared God nor respected people.” Likely justice in his court came only after a nice bribe. The widow would be without this resource. Instead, she comes to him relentlessly, asking for justice. This is how we are to lift our needs and petitions to God.

Jesus then contrasts the unjust judge with our just God. The unjust judge finally decided to give the widow her justice because she keeps “bothering” him and is “embarrassing” him. Her persistence is the driving force. God is much different. In verse 7 Jesus points out, “Won’t God provide justice to his chosen people who cry out to him day and night?” God will not be slow to respond. God will grant justice quickly. (Word of caution: Jesus understands God’s time. It is not the same as our ‘slow’ and ‘quick.’ The lesson, after all, is about persistent prayer.)

Jesus closes with a question about finding faithfulness when he returns one day in glory. Will we be faithful to fighting for and persistently praying for justice? Or will we surrender to the unrelenting injustices of this world? You and I are the answers to these questions.

Prayer: Lord God, first, empower and strengthen our prayer life. Bring us always to our knees in your presence, persistently offering our petitions. Second, Lord, fill us with compassion and empathy for the marginalized, the oppressed, the abused, the downtrodden, and all others suffering injustice. May we ever pray for and stand in solidarity with such as these. 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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A Faith Witness

Reading: Psalm 116:1-2 and 12-19

Psalm 116:13 – “I’ll lift up the cup of thanksgiving. I’ll call on the Lord’s name.”

Psalm 116 is part of a collection of Psalms known as the Hallel. These songs were used in the Passover celebration. Psalms 113 and 114 were sung going up to Jerusalem. These two songs celebrate God’s power, might, rescue, and protection. Psalms 115-118 would be sung after the Passover meal. In the Christian tradition, this meal would occur on Maundy or Holy Thursday. These songs celebrate who and what God was and is and they witness to the peoples’ faith and commitment to God.

Psalm 116 begins with the psalmist declaring his or her love for God. This love is founded on God hearing their prayers for mercy. Because God hears, they will always call out to God. We can relate. When we feel like God is answering our prayers and is close to us, our faith soars and our love for God grows.

Verses 12-19 offer the psalmist’s response. Gratitude and acts of thanksgiving dominate these verses. In verse 13 the author writes, “I’ll lift up the cup of thanksgiving. I’ll call on the Lord’s name.” This cup overflows with God’s blessings. Lifting it and calling on God’s name are acts of worship. Keeping the promises made to God, done so publicly, reveals the psalmist’s strong commitment to God. This public witness encourages others in their faith. As we walk through Holy Week may all that we say and do “Praise the Lord!”

Prayer: Lord God, we join the psalmist in gratitude for your presence in our lives. We are so grateful that you hear our prayers. We celebrate the fact that you are on our side. Your love for us calls us to respond with acts of love towards you. May we witness well to our love of you this day and every day. Amen.


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Equipped

Reading: Romans 15:14-20

Romans 15:14 – “You yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge, and are able to teach one another.”

Photo credit: Shane

At the start of chapter 15 Paul encourages the people in the church in Rome to be patient with and to build up one another. He encourages them to have the attitude of Christ and to welcome others as Jesus did. Paul wants to see their hope and joy overflow into the world through the power of the Holy Spirit. As we turn to verse 14, Paul is reminding the church that it is not just the pastor’s job to grow the church and the faith of those in the church and wider community.

In verse 14 we read, “You yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge, and are able to teach one another.” They have been shaped and formed into people that are equipped to minister to one another and to the world. They are ready to shape and form one another and any new disciples. He is reminding them “of what you already knew.” If they are to call themselves “Christians” then they need to model Christ. They too are to witness to their faith in God just as Jesus did. Paul has also set for them an example of what good ministry looks like. Bringing others to faith and growing their faith has happened “by what I’ve said and what I’ve done.” Paul has both encouraged and challenged the church, both built them up and called them out. And now the Roman church has been equipped to do the same. These words apply to us as well. As followers of Jesus Christ we have been equipped to help others know Jesus and to help one another grow in our faith.

Modeling Jesus with our words and actions is easy sometimes. Sharing joy and hope and love is not hard. The challenge comes when we are called to speak or act in situations where injustice or sin or some other wrong is taking place. To lift God’s will and way to the forefront and to challenge others to walk in this way can be hard and it can be costly. To fail to speak or to act will cause harm. Trusting in God, in the example of Jesus, and in the guidance of the Spirit, may we choose sacrifice and service to others.

Prayer: Lord God, there are times when it is easy to be a faithful witness in word or in deed. Encourage us to do so! And we also find ourselves in times and places when the Holy Spirit calls us to hold others accountable to who and what you call us all to be. Encourage and empower us to love you and neighbor even when it is hard and risky. All to your glory! Amen.