pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

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Gifts of God’s Hands

Reading: Ecclesiastes 1:1-2:26

‭Ecclesiastes 2:11 – “When I surveyed all that my hands had done… I realized that it was pointless — a chasing after wind.”

As we begin Ecclesiastes we come to see a different picture of the world. This book presents the world as it is – unvarnished – and it gives us permission to name how frail and fragile life really is. Ecclesiastes asks the hard questions and challenges us to go deeper in our understanding of faith, life, and God.

Ecclesiastes 1 begins by declaring that everything is “perfectly pointless.” This sets the tone for most of today’s reading. One generation comes, another goes. Words are tiring, the eye is never satisfied, the ear isn’t ever filled up. What happens will happen. There is nothing new under the sun. Same old, same old.

The Teacher shared how he investigated and explored the world, gaining great wisdom and knowledge. Madness and folly came along too. This all felt like chasing the wind too. So he turned to wine, to great projects, to gathering servants, vineyards, herds, gold and silver. He refused himself no pleasure. And after all of this he states, “When I surveyed all that my hands had done… I realized that it was pointless — a chasing after wind.”

Then the Teacher recognizes that wisdom is more beneficial than folly. So if one has a choice… But he also realizes that the same fate happens to both. This leads to despair. All that he has accomplished and gathered will go to an heir. Will he be wise or foolish?

Our text today closes with hope. The Teacher acknowledges, “There’s nothing better for human beings than to eat, drink, and experience pleasure in their hard work.” Focus on the moment, enjoy the small things. These are gifts from the hand of God. May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, yes, life can be hard and frustrating and challenging. Yes, it can feel pointless. Sometimes the treadmill never stops. Yet you remain. In you we can find satisfaction and even pleasure. In you, all we need is provided. Walk with us today, O God. Amen.


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Righteousness, Honesty

Reading: Proverbs 24

‭Proverbs 24:3 – “By wisdom a house is built; by understanding it is established.”

Today the sages speak of not engaging the wicked, of not envying those who do evil. Their hearts are “focused on violence” and their lips “speak trouble.” The sages tell us not to get mad or to seek revenge against such as these. The wisdom writers note that the lazy person’s field is full of thorns and weeds. This just leads to poverty. By contrast, the wise will get their “outside work” done so that they can build a home. Here one finds hope and a future.

To build a good future, to add to our hope, we are encouraged to eat wisdom like people eat honey. Honey was a somewhat rare delicacy. Treat wisdom this way, says the sage. To eat wisdom is to secure a future with hope. Along these lines we’re reminded to fear the Lord (and the king.) Therefore, don’t associate with the rebellious. And rescue those headed for death.

We again hear the call today to honesty and to righteousness. Yes, the righteous will fall. But they’ll get up again and again. “Seven” is symbolic for ‘many times.’ The wicked, however, will fall into trouble. We’re warned against rejoicing over this. To do so would displease God. We’re also reminded today that our words should always be honest, showing no partiality, offering no false witness. Speaking in these ways could be hard. Yet just as the Holy Spirit at times speaks hard but true words into our hearts so too must we do this for others. Done in love, it is a gift.

Prayer: Lord God, lead us today to walk the path of righteousness and to speak the words of truth. Guard us from being wicked or evil or lazy. Lead us to joyfully engage the work that you have for us. Amen.


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Songs of Ascent, Part I

Readings: Psalms 120-127

‭Psalm 122:1 – “I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let’s go to the LORD’s house!'”

Psalms 120-134 are collectively known as the “Songs of Ascent.” Each carries the superscription, “A pilgrimage song.” These songs were likely sung by pilgrims on their way up to Jerusalem to participate in one of the three yearly festivals. I wonder which of these Jesus and his followers sang as he rode into the city just before the Passover.

Psalms 120 and 121 are like a call and response. In Psalm 120 the psalmist has been away too long and needs rescue from “lying lips” and those who “hate peace.” Psalm 121 answers with the invite to look to the mountains, to Jerusalem. There you will find your “protector,” the one who “never sleeps or rests.”

Psalms 122 and 123 function in the same way with Psalm 124. Psalm 122 begins with joy over being invited to go up to God’s house, to the city “joined together in unity.” The psalmist turns to God, asking for peace and rest for Jerusalem. Psalm 123 adds a prayer for mercy. They’ll pray attentively until mercy comes. Then Psalm 124 offers encouragement as it recalls God’s rescue and deliverance in the past. The psalmist declares that their help is still in God alone, “the maker of heaven and earth.”

Psalm 125 continues the theme of trusting in God, who, like Mount Zion, is “never shaken.” The psalmist closes this song with a request of God: do good to the good and banish those evildoers. Psalm 126 is similar in structure – remembering when God rescued them, then asking God to rescue them again. Psalm 127 is a bit like Ecclesiastes. Human effort is “pointless.” But children – and lots of them – are a gift from God!

These songs of ascent, like much of the rest of the Psalms, cover a range of emotions and situations. May we use these prayers too as we find ourselves experiencing joy or sorrow, blessing or suffering, belonging or isolation.

Prayer: Lord God, as some of these Psalms or words within call out to us, write them on the tablets of our hearts. Then, by the power of your Holy Spirit, call them to our minds at just the right time. Thank you, Lord. Amen.


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Sing, O Israel

Readings: Psalms 64-68

‭Psalm 68:9 – “You showered down abundant rain, God; when your inheritance grew weary, you restored it yourself.”

Psalm 64 begins with a prayer for protection and finishes with a celebration of God’s acts. Psalms 65-67 join in the celebration of God’s mighty acts. We close with Psalm 68, mostly more praise but with some petitions for God to act. As we draw close to the end of Book 2, we see the shift towards more praise and less lament.

Psalm 64 begins with prayer of protection against the evil doers’ words or “arrows.” What an appropriate descriptor. The psalmist trusts that God will respond with an arrow too. Then the righteous will rejoice in the Lord. The rejoicing continues in Psalm 65, where David is grateful for God’s listening ear and forgiving heart. David also celebrates how God can “calm the roaring sea.” How we too are grateful for this gift! The Psalm closes with thanksgiving for God’s provision of abundant flocks and grains. Yes, God is good.

Psalm 66 focuses on God’s deeds and power. This power has tested and refined them – a good process. A good one for us too. Not always enjoyable but always fruitful. The psalmist’s response? Offerings given and promises kept, a joyful response! The thanksgiving extends in Psalm 67 to include the gift of salvation. It is to be made known to the nations. Then the nations of the world will better understand the fair judgments that God renders and will better receive the guidance that God desires to give to all of the nations of the world.

Closing today with Psalm 68, the Psalm begins with a grand sweep of God’s acts: scatters the enemy, cares for orphans and widows, sets prisoners free. The psalmist celebrates God’s provision and love: “You showered down abundant rain, God; when your inheritance grew weary, you restored it yourself.” The Psalm closes by remembering God’s past victories, grand worship, and shows of strength. The psalmist longs for these to return. Remind yourselves through song. Sing, O Israel, sing to the God who gives you strength!

Prayer: Lord God, we too thank you for the many ways that you move in our lives and in our world. We offer you our praise and worship! And we too count on your continued presence. Without you, O Lord, we’d be in trouble. Shower us with your abundant love and provision. Go with us day by day. Amen.


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Set for a Transition

Readings: 1st Samuel 29, 1st Samuel 30, 1st Samuel 31

1st Samuel 30:26 – “He sent some of the plunder to the elders of Judah and to his friends. ‘Here is a gift for you from the plunder of the LORD’s enemies.'”

Once again it is time for battle between the Philistines and the Israelites. David has been living in the Philistine territory for over a year so he and his soldiers march out with Achish and the rest of the Philistine army. But the commanders don’t trust David – he could turn on them in battle. He and his soldiers are sent back to Ziklag. In the meantime, though, the Amalekites have raided Ziklag and have hauled off everyone. David’s soldiers are very upset, almost ready to stone David. But he consults with God and is directed to pursue the raiding party.

David and the troops have been marching for 3 days already. 200 of the soldiers are too exhausted to continue the pursuit. David and 400 press on. They find a slave who was abandoned and he leads them to the Amalekite raiders. David attacks and recovers everyone plus some sheep, cattle, and other plunder. Some of the “evil and despicable individuals” don’t want to share with the 200 but David intervenes, making it a regulation to share with those who guarded the supplies. David also sends some of the plunder to Judah, saying, “Here is a gift for you from the plunder of the LORD’s enemies.”

Elsewhere, the Philistines and Israelites engage in battle. Many Israelites fall and the rest flee. Saul and sons are overtaken. Saul’s three sons die and he is wounded. He falls on his sword and dies, avoiding torture and death at the “hands of these uncircumcised men.” Some brave men recover the bodies of Saul and his sons. They are cremated and buried in Jabesh. Israel mourns for seven days.

The reign of Saul comes to a close and the stage is set for a transition to a new king. This will not be an easy transition.

Prayer: Lord God, there is violence and war and mistrust and death. There is loyalty and faith and trust and hope. Guide us to cling to you in both the good and the bad of our lives, just as David did. Turn us ever to you for guidance and strength. May we find these too. Amen.


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The One Who Does Right

Readings: 1st Samuel 25, 1st Samuel 26, 1st Samuel 27, 1st Samuel 28

1st Samuel 25:28 – “The LORD will definitely make an enduring dynasty for my master because my master fights the LORD’s battles.”

Chapter 25 brings us the story of Abigail – another female heroine who does what is right in the eyes of the Lord. She is married to Nabal, who harshly and arrogantly refuses to help David and his soldiers. This angers David and leads his to say, “Strap on your swords!” Abigail hears of all this and quickly prepares a gift, heading out to intercept David. She moves his heart away from bloodshed and vengeance with her wise words. She also tells him, “The LORD will definitely make an enduring dynasty for my master because my master fights the LORD’s battles.” He accepts her wisdom and her gifts and sends her home in peace. When Nabal hears the story, his heart fails and he soon dies. Abigail then becomes David’s wife.

Saul then comes again in pursuit of David. God causes a deep sleep to come over Saul’s camp. David and Abishai sneak into camp and steal Saul’s spear and water jug. In the morning, David confronts Abner about what has happened. Saul realizes that David has spared his life a second time: mercy.2.0. Saul blesses David and he returns back home. David settles in the land of the Philistines.

Then the Philistines again come out for war. Saul gathers the troops. He tries to consult God, but God is silent. Through a medium at Endor, Samuel is called up from the grave. Samuel reiterates what he had said before – the kingdom will be torn away. He adds something Saul likely knew – it will be given “to your friend David.” And he adds ominous news – tomorrow Saul and his sons will die at the hands of the Philistines. Saul is “utterly terrified.” We are drawing close to a transition in leadership. The one who does right in the eyes of the Lord is being guided and blessed by God. May it be so with you and with me.

Prayer: Lord God, in the midst of the foolishness, poor decisions, and overly emotional responses you continue to steadfastly guide, using this person here and that person there to accomplish your plans. Continue to lead and guide us, your servants, through the chaos and uncertainty of this world. Amen.


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Set Apart

Readings: Numbers 5, Numbers 6, Numbers 7

Numbers 6:24-25 – “The LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face to you and grant you peace.”

Chapter 5 begins with how to keep the camp from becoming unclean and with how to restore relationships in the camp. These simple provisions hold them accountable to one another. The jealous husband case found in verses 11-31 is hard to relate to our world today. John Wesley saw the purpose of this law as twofold. First, it was a deterrent to a woman tempted by adultery. Second, it offered wives protection from the jealousy of hard-hearted husbands. No provision is made anywhere in the Law for a woman who suspected her husband of adultery.

Chapter 6 gives instructions for nazarites. These were non-Levites who wanted to commit a portion of their lives to serving the Lord. Because they were not Levites they could not perform tabernacle duties. They were set apart by following a strict behavioral code. Samson and Samuel are two examples of nazarites who served for life. Most nazarites would serve for a designated period of time. At the end of their service they would offer the standard cycle of offerings to the Lord.

Chapter 7 is a flashback. It recounts the gifts brought to the dedication of the tabernacle written about in Exodus 40. Oxen and wagons are given to enable the Levites to transport the structure of the tabernacle. Then one representative from each tribe brings the same set of gifts to dedicate the altar. The gifts are brought in the order established in Numbers 2.

Our reading closes with Moses entering the tent of meeting to talk with God. This scene connects back to God’s promise made in Exodus 25. Tucked in at the end of chapter 6 is a priestly blessing. We close with a portion today: “The LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. The LORD lift up his face to you and grant you peace.”

Prayer: Lord God, we, like the nazarites, are called to be set apart from the world. Instead of physical practices we are called to spiritual practices that reflect your love, grace, mercy… thereby setting ourselves apart from the world. Empower us to live in your ways. Grant us peace as we seek to live as your disciples. Amen.


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The Gift We Live For

Reading: Titus 2:11-14

Verse 11: “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people.”

We begin this week in Paul’s letter to Titus. It is a short letter of instruction and encouragement. Titus was a co-worker of Paul’s who was left on Crete to work with the newly forming church. Today’s passage comes from the section titled “What Must Be Taught to Various Groups.” Our small portion of this section comes as something to teach to all people and groups.

In verse 11 Paul writes, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people.” The starting place of this passage is in the past. Jesus Christ has come, bringing grace that leads to salvation to all people. This is what we will celebrate in six days – the coming of Immanuel, God with us! In the next verse Paul shifts to the present, to what the gift means now. Paul encourages Titus to teach the believers to live Christ-like lives. Say “no” to the things of this world, living upright, godly, self-controlled lives now. The next verse looks to the future – “while we wait for the blessed hope” – waiting for the return of Jesus Christ.

These words fit so well in the Advent season and in the week in which we turn to Mary and then to Christmas Eve. Mary was a humble servant who obediently received God’s call. She bore the gift that Paul lives for and encourages Titus and all the believers in Crete to live for. May this too be the gift that we live for – Jesus Christ, who was and is and always will be.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for coming to us, revealing the depth of your love and grace for all people. We rejoice in the salvation that you bring to all who call on the name of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Guide us to turn that rejoicing into living each day so that others can receive the gift of your son. Amen.


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Actively Using our Gifts

Reading: Matthew 25:14-18

Verse 14: “Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them.”

This week’s parable begins, “Again, it will be like…” The ‘again’ refers to Jesus’ continuing teaching on the kingdom of heaven. That’s the ‘it’ in these opening words. The prior parable was all about keeping awake and being prepared. That is step one in our Christian journey. As Jesus continues, we get to step two.

In today’s text a man is “going on a journey.” Jesus is offering words of instruction to his followers. Right now the disciples are mostly watching Jesus. One day he’ll go and they will be the ones tasked with sharing the good news, healing a broken world… This task falls to each new generation of Christ followers.

The man in our parable gives each servant some talents or money. The amounts varied – “each according to his [or her] ability.” While there are no instructions given, the implication is that they will use this gift in accordance with their ability or giftedness. There are a few layers to this part of the parable. When Jesus departed this world he gifted the disciples with the Holy Spirit. This indwelling presence leads and guides and teaches his followers. As we enter into a relationship with Jesus, we too receive this gift. The second gifting comes in the love, hope, peace, joy, forgiveness, grace… that we receive from the Lord. Our third gifting is our particular talents as nurses, teachers, parents, accountants, coaches… The implication of the parable applies to us in all of these layers. We are to use all of these gifts for the building up of the kingdom of God. So the question is this: Are we actively using our giftedness for God’s glory?

Prayer: Lord God, you’ve given me much – unconditional love, unending grace, undeserved forgiveness… As I know these more and more, guide me to use and share them more and more. You’ve blessed me with the gifts of teaching and serving. Employ these too to build your kingdom here on earth. Amen.


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Sing a New Song

Reading: Psalm 149

Verse 4: “The Lord takes delight in God’s people; God crowns the humble with victory.”

Like many of the Psalms, 149 calls us to praise the Lord. God is so good to us in so many ways. Praise is a natural response to these blessings. The psalmist invites us to “sing a new song.” This reflects the beliefs that God is present and that God blesses us each day – therefore we have something new to sing about every day!

We are encouraged to rejoice and be glad in our God and king. We are invited to praise God with dancing and with music. There is a joy in today’s Psalm that beckons us into a place of joy too. The joy is not just ours, though. We are reminded that God delights in us, that we bring God joy. In response, God desires to crown the humble with salvation. Humility is a necessary part of truly praising God with all that we are. Without humility we reserve part of the praise for ourselves.

Today’s invitation to joy and to praise and to offer our thanksgiving to God is also an invitation to revisit yesterday’s focus on the personal times that God has drawn near and has touched our lives. These are occasions for song and praise and rejoicing. Today let us sing a new song of praise to the Lord!

Prayer: Lord God, beautiful singing might not be my gift, yet my prayer can be a song to you. In joy and praise and thanks I lift my voice to you, O maker of heaven and earth, O giver of all good things. Thank you for the many ways that you touch my life and encourage my faith. Amen.