pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: faith


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Using Our Voice

Reading: John 1:29-42

John 1:30 – “He who comes after me is really greater than me because he existed before me.”

In John 1, John the Baptist is out in the wilderness baptizing and proclaiming the coming Messiah. Lots and lots of people were coming out to see John. It would’ve been easy to look at the large crowds and to think pretty highly of himself. John the Baptist does not do what most of us would do. Instead he remains humble and serves as God has called him to serve: as the “voice crying out in the wilderness.” John knew that he was not the Messiah (or Elijah or…) He knew he was the voice calling people to Jesus.

In verse 29 John the Baptist identifies Jesus as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” These descriptors fit with part of who the Jews expected the Messiah to be. John can name Jesus this way because he saw God’s word come true as the Spirit descended upon Jesus after he was baptized by John. This presence empowers Jesus to be the one who “baptizes with the Holy Spirit.” With these words, with his voice, John the Baptist clearly identifies Jesus Christ as the Messiah come into the world.

Today our world is filled with many voices. Some are clearly of this earthly kingdom. Some are clearly followers of Jesus who seek to share the good news. Many voices are a mix of these two. They try and sound like Jesus – even using a snippet of his words as a sound bite. Their lives and actions, however , do not look like Jesus at all. And where do our voices fit in this mix? We are called to be like John the Baptist, pointing to Jesus the Messiah, using our voices to carry his message of love to the world, using our hands and feet in humble service to our God. May it be so for all who seek to follow Jesus.

Prayer: Lord God, make our hearts as sure and steady as John’s was. Make our words as true and our actions as pure. In all things and in all ways, use us to point others to Jesus. Amen.


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In Partnership

Reading: 1st Corinthians 1:1-9

1st Corinthians 1:9 – “God is faithful, and you were called by him to partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.”

The opening of 1st Corinthians reminds those in these churches of some important things. First, they have been made holy and are called as God’s people. Second, they are bound together with the church universal through their faith in Jesus Christ. These truths continue to hold fast today.

Paul then praises these early believers for God’s grace that is evident in their lives and for the knowledge that they’ve received from God. Paul tells them that all of the spiritual gifts necessary for the church to be the church are present in Corinth. I believe that the same can be said of our churches today. God equips us to do the work of God amongst one another and in the world around us. We are gifted to do this work.

When Paul was writing, it was not an easy time to be a follower of Jesus. The Jews and the Romans were both opposed to this new faith. Persecution was common. That is why Paul encourages them, assuring them that God will keep their testimony blameless. Their lives will match their words and vice versa. This is possible because “God is faithful, and you were called by him to partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” The partnership worked then and continues to work today because God is the foundation and is the source of our strength. In this partnership, may we ever be faithful to our call to witness to the good news of Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Lord God, you alone have the power to defeat the things of this world. Some of these things are threatening and dangerous. Some are powerful and violent. Some are sneaky and deceitful. God, lead and guide us, strengthen and empower us, fill us with your Spirit and presence so that we may stand firm and can remain true to you alone, our God and King. Amen.


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Tell the Good News!

Reading: Psalm 40:5-11

Psalm 40:10 – “I didn’t keep your righteousness only to myself. I declared your faithfulness and your salvation.”

As we return to Psalm 40 today, David’s song of praise and thanksgiving continues. In a general way David recalls and celebrates the “many things” that God has done in his life. Of God’s wonderful deeds and plans, David declares, “No one can compare with you.” As is the case with David, so it is with us as we walk long with the Lord: God’s touches upon our life are too numerous to count. So as is our natural inclination, the question that comes to our minds is this: How do we thank God? In David’s time it was sacrificial offerings. But David knew that God did not require these. No, God does good and wonderful things simply because that is the character of God. In this, we find great hope.

So, then, what is David’s response to God? And what should our response be? David declared, “Here I come!” This was David’s way of saying that he was all in, that God could do with him whatever God wanted. David desires to do God’s will and to know God’s ways. He tells the assembly (we’d call it the church) the goods news of what God has done for him. It is to be shared by us as well. In verse 10 we read, “I didn’t keep your righteousness only to myself. I declared your faithfulness and your salvation.” May it be so for you and for me today and every day.

Prayer: Lord God, you are bold in your love for us. In the moments when boldness is required of us, may we powerfully stand and speak of your love for us and for all of humanity. At times you come quietly, with a whisper or nudge. When gentleness and kindness are needed, may we speak and move carefully and compassionately. In all ways, O God, use us to proclaim the good news of your love and salvation. Amen.


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A “Song” to “Sing”

Reading: Psalm 40:1-4

Psalm 40:3b – “Many people will learn of this and be amazed; they will trust the Lord.”

Photo credit: Matt Botsford

David’s Psalm 40 is a prayer of thanksgiving for God’s salvation in his life. As we read the passages today and tomorrow, we will see how God’s rescue instills in David hope for the future. While we do not know the exact nature of this particular rescue, we too have experienced rescue by God. Whether from a poor decision or from a sin, whether from an illness or from an unwanted change, whether from suffering caused by another or from grief over a loss, we have all been in the “pit.” From these depths we’ve all cried out to God. And we have all experienced God leaning down, listening, lifting us up, steadying us, and putting a “new song” in our hearts. We’ve all been saved. We all have a “song” to “sing.”

David was an accomplished musician. As a youngster his music calmed a troubled King Saul again and again. Over his lifetime, he wrote many songs to God. Almost half of the 150 Psalms in our Bibles are credited to David. You too may be musically talented. If so, let your song of salvation be proclaimed in music. But maybe music isn’t your thing. Maybe it is creative writing or poetry or painting. Maybe it is story telling or having good conversations. Maybe it is prayer. We all have a “song” to “sing” to God and to one another. Our call is to “sing,” so that “Many people will learn of this and be amazed; they will trust the Lord.” May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, first we thank you for your steadfast love that draws near, that hears our cries, that rescues us – often from ourselves. Lord, turn these experiences into our “songs” of faith. However we express our testimony, God, use it to bring others to a saving faith in you. Amen.


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Bring the Light

Reading: Isaiah 49:5-7

Isaiah 49:6b – “I will also appoint you as a light to the nations, so that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”

Photo credit: Gian D.

Continuing in Isaiah 49 today, the prophet shares God’s decision. It is not simply a change of heart. The time in exile prophesied by Jeremiah and others is drawing to a close. The 70 years are up. It is time to “restore Jacob to God.” A group will lead the return to God, then larger Israel will follow, also returning to God. To begin the process of returning to the Promised Land, God has honored the prophet, becoming his strength.

While this brings hope and joy to the prophet, God says, “It is not enough.” Yes, God will “raise up” the tribes of Jacob, and, yes, God will bring home “the survivors of exile.” But this is not enough. God’s plan is far bigger than Isaiah envisioned. God works this way in our lives too. Yes, it is awesome that God has brought your family to Jesus Christ. But then God asks, what about your neighbor and the stranger down the street? And what about “those” people in “that” part of town?

In verse 7 we get the full scope of God’s plan: “I will also appoint you as a light to the nations, so that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.” God’s plan is to save all people everywhere. That other part of town? Yes. And the people of our reservations and inner cities and the people on the other side of the world? Yes, yes, and yes! Carrying the light of Christ in our hearts, God’s people are appointed by God to bring the light of Christ to all people. Reading on we see that even kings and military leaders will bow before the Lord. All on account of the Lord. And all because we who are chosen are faithful to our charge. May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, we first ask that the light of Christ would burn brightly in our hearts. Burning brightly may your fire burn away the chaff and sin, readying us to step into the world’s darkness and pain. Use our light to open blind eyes and to soften hard hearts. Use our light to guide others to welcome the light of Christ into their hearts. Amen.


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God Will…

Reading: Isaiah 49:1-4

Isaiah 49:4b – “Nevertheless, the Lord will grant me justice; my reward is with God.”

Photo credit: Aaron Burden

The second of four Servant Songs found in Isaiah is our focus today and tomorrow. In this week’s reading, the servant speaks in the first person. These words could be Isaiah himself speaking or they could be the words of the servant Israel – an ideal Israel. Or is the prophet speaking as you or me?

The chosenness found in Isaiah 42 continues in chapter 49. The servant was called before birth, formed by God in the womb for this very purpose. As God’s hand continued to shape and form the servant, he or she or we became “a sharp sword… a sharpened arrow.” God’s word continues to cut through our sin and complacency and apathy, calling us to be people bent on righteousness and justice. God identifies the servant as one “in whom I show my glory.” God’s light and love, shining in and through us, reveal God’s presence and glory to the world. It is a high calling.

And it is not always easy to speak truth and to bring God glory. At times we feel like the servant feels: “wearied… in vain… used up… strength… for nothing.” We have given our all, but the fight feels too uphill. We have walked the long road of faith, but there seems to be no end in sight. The injustice, the oppression, the grief, the evils of this world – they appear to be winning. In these low moments, in the depth of the dark valley, we need to remember and cling to the words found at the end of verse 4: “Nevertheless, the Lord will grant me justice; my reward is with God.” God is on our side. God has a plan. God is a God of justice and righteousness. God will triumph over all evil. And if not in our lifetime, then heaven is surely our reward. Thanks be to God!

Prayer: Lord God, there are many days when we walk in your light and love. We feel your presence, strength, and guidance. Our words, thoughts, and actions are pleasing in your sight. May these days be our reminders. Lord, in those seasons when we are worn down and feel defeated, remind us of your presence. Lift us up by the memories of our long and steady walk with you. Renew our strength and focus so that your light might shine into the darkness, whether in our hearts or in our world. Amen.


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Strength and Peace

Reading: Psalm 29:6-11

Psalm 29:11 – “Let the Lord give strength to his people! Let the Lord bless his people with peace!”

Verses 6-9 demonstrate the power of God’s voice. Nations and mountains “jump around” like young animals at play, going here and there with no reason. Fire and earthquakes rattle the land. The forests are stripped bare. These physical events happen in our created world, revealing the power of God. In our lives, times of suffering and loss and trial can make us feel like the created world must have felt. The loss of a loved one, the end of an important relationship, an unwanted change, a health crisis – these events can disorient us, can shake us, can make us feel bare and vulnerable. And events in our world – things that have nothing to do with us directly – can have the same impact, bringing hurt, lament, and even anger at times.

Verse 10 reminds us that God “sits enthroned over the flood waters.” In the wake of the disaster – physical or emotional or relational – God is present and in control. In the aftermath of loss, in the valley of grief, in the wilderness of despair, God is present and in control. God does not abandon us. God remains with us. God reigns over all of creation, including you and me. So let us declare verse 11 as our prayer and hope for today and every day: “Let the Lord give strength to his people! Let the Lord bless his people with peace!” May it be so for us all.

Prayer: Lord God, be with us. Be our strength. Be our peace. Lord God, be with our world. Bring strength to our world. Bring peace to our world. In a world with too much unjust violence, in a world with too many abuses of power, in a world with too little love for one another, be our strength and our peace. Lord, fill us with your strength and peace. When full, God, send us out into this broken and hurting world, bringing your strength and peace with us. Amen.


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Open Eyes, Shining Light

Reading: Isaiah 42:5-9

Isaiah 42:6 – “I, the Lord, have called you… I will grasp your hand and guard you, and give you as a covenant… as a light to the nations.”

Photo credit: Devin Avery

Today we return to where we began the week, turning again to Isaiah 42. Our verses for today are still about the servant, but God’s role is also a focus. Verse 5 establishes who God is: the creator and the giver of breath to all who walk on the earth. These words remind us of God’s power and of God’s control over the world. This power is extended to humankind in the next verse, where we read, “I, the Lord, have called you… I will grasp your hand and guard you, and give you as a covenant… as a light to the nations.” This echoes our chosenness found in verse 1 and it fleshes out how God’s spirit works in our lives. The Spirit leads and protects us as we step forward in faith, seeking to be a light to those around us.

Verse 7 begins with “to open blind eyes.” While this is primarily about being the light to others, sometimes it is our own eyes that need to see. We can overlook our own failures, we can ignore the one God is leading us to, we can be so busy or preoccupied that we don’t see the need right in front of us. At other times we do go where the Spirit is leading us and we are part of God’s work that frees those in prisons and brings light to those in darkness. This seeing and freeing can be from physical places but can also be from emotional, relational, and/or spiritual things. These imprisoning factors are often intertwined and connected. This can complicate the situation or compound the need, but we need to always remind ourselves that nothing is impossible when God is leading, guiding, and working in someone’s life.

Our reading closes with a reminder that while God has done much in the past, God is still at work and will remain at work in our lives and in our world. The “new things” of God are the promise that God will continue to grasp our hand, to guard us, to open blind eyes, and to send us out as a light to the world. Thanks be to God!

Prayer: Lord God, first we ask you to shine your light into the dark pockets in our hearts and lives. Open our eyes to the things that need to die in us, then grasp our hand as we work to uproot these evils. Once made right with you, send us out to be light for others, opening the way for your love to bring healing, making them whole. Amen.


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Dearly Loved, Spirit In-Dwelled

Reading: Matthew 3:13-17

Matthew 3:16 – “He immediately came up out of the water. Heaven was opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God coming down like a dove and resting on him.”

As Jesus is beginning his time of public ministry, step one is to be baptized. He travels from Galilee to the place along the Jordan River where John the Baptist is preparing Israel for the kingdom of God that is drawing near. Jesus is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire – not water. John the Baptist has just identified Jesus in this way. So as Jesus comes to be baptized, John protests. Recognizing Jesus’ greatness, John asks, “Yet you come to me?” Jesus says, in essence, “Yes, I do.” For Jesus, this is a step of solidarity with all who seek the coming kingdom of God. And this is a step towards righteousness. It is from this moment that Jesus will enter the wilderness to test his own righteousness.

After being baptized by John, “He immediately came up out of the water. Heaven was opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God coming down like a dove and resting on him.” God becomes present to Jesus in two ways. First, the Spirit of God descends and rests on Jesus. Second, God’s voice affirms Jesus, declaring love for him and happiness from him. In these ways, God is preparing Jesus to face Satan’s temptations in the wilderness after fasting for 40 days. Today, in baptism, the Holy Spirit is invited into the waters so that the Spirit will come to rest in the heart of the baptized. In the words and prayers, both pastor and congregation declare God’s love and their love for the one being baptized, pledging to walk with them as they grow in faith. Dearly loved, Spirit in-dwelled, one is prepared to bring much happiness to God. May it be so for us all.

Prayer: Lord God, just as the waters of baptism are just water without your Spirit, so too are we just flesh and bones without your presence in us. So we ask you to be ever-present in our hearts, O God. In this way, empower and encourage us to be righteous and to live justly. Amen.


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Lord of All

Reading: Acts 10:34-43

Acts 10:36 – “This is the message of peace he sent to the Israelites by proclaiming the good news through Jesus Christ: He is Lord of all!”

As cultures and as individuals we are well-practiced at placing ourselves and others in categories, boxes, distinct groups, pecking orders… There are a variety of reasons that we tend to do this. It is easy. But easy is cheap. It discards our uniqueness. It makes us feel better about ourselves. But it is an artificial and temporary identity. It gives us places to fit in, to belong. “Fitting in” – it is shallow and limited. It is freeing. We don’t have to worry about, care for, or make space for “them.” This excludes and disrespects whole swaths of people and/or groups in one fell swoop.

In today’s Acts reading, Peter’s speech comes after Peter has been summoned by God to go to Cornelius’ home. This Roman centurion was about as far outside of any box that Peter thought was acceptable as one could get. Yet here Peter was, right where God wanted him to be. That’s the thing about the Holy Spirit – it will do the same with us if we hear, listen, and follow. When we go there, where the Spirit leads, we will come to truly know what Peter learned: God shows no partiality.

In his speech, Peter states that acceptance into God’s family comes through worshipping God and living a righteous life. Luke writes, “This is the message of peace he sent to the Israelites by proclaiming the good news through Jesus Christ: He is Lord of all!” To be this message of peace is to be a person who is open to include all people, who finds worth and value in all people, who seeks to find common ground with all people. This is the example set by the one who did good and healed, who died and rose again. This is the one who offers forgiveness of sins to all who believe in him as Lord and Savior. It is a wide-open invitation. The only qualifier, the only requirement, the only need is belief. Jesus can be Lord of all. May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, in love you call all people to a saving faith. In grace you call us as we are: sinful, flawed, selfish. In mercy you show us who and what we can be for you when we walk faithfully and live righteously. With forgiveness, you restart our journey again and again. We thank you today for always being a God whose heart is bent on forming community and building relationships. Guide us, shape us, and form us to have your heart. Use us to share the goods news of Jesus Christ: he is Lord of all. Amen.