pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

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A Kingdom of Justice and Righteousness

Reading: Psalm 72:1-7

Psalm 72:2 – “Let him judge your people with righteousness and your poor with justice.”

Psalm 72 is a prayer for the long reign of a just and righteous king. It is a prayer for a king who will rule as God’s representative here on earth. These words of Solomon were likely written when he was living closest to this vision of an ideal king. Like his father David, considered Israel’s greatest king, Solomon had many failures during his reign. Only one king has been and ever will be truly just and righteous: Jesus.

In verse 2 we get a glimpse into what the “ideal” king will be like. Here we read, “Let him judge your people with righteousness and your poor with justice.” Under this kind of leader there will be peace in the land. This peace is not founded on military power or dominance. It is founded upon lifting up the poor and needy while “crushing” any who seek to oppress. Today this would involve dismantling systems that oppress and take advantage of those on the margins. It would remove power from the hands of those who seek to lord power over others purely for personal gain.

Under a just and righteous king there would be abundance and flourishing for all people. To ensure this, a just and righteous king would act for the good of the poor and marginalized, exhibiting God’s heart for “the least of these.” These actions would naturally place such a king in opposition to the greedy and power-hungry. The kingdoms of this would did and do struggle with the establishment of a kingdom of justice and righteousness. It is a kingdom not of this world. It is a kingdom where Christ the king reigns. O God, may it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, we long for the day when the kingdoms of this world crumble to dust as Jesus returns in glory. As we long, we also wait. As we wait, O God, may it be an active waiting. Use us day by day to be builders of a more just and righteous world. May the story of our lives tell the story of your coming kingdom. Amen.


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A Long Line

Reading: Ephesians 1:11-23

Ephesians 1:13 – “You too heard the word of truth in Christ, which is the good news of your salvation.”

Photo credit: Anne Nygard

Paul first reminds us in today’s passage that we who believe have “received an inheritance in Christ.” Paul sees this outcome as a part of God’s plan for all people. If God were to have God’s way, all people would be disciples of Jesus Christ. That is God’s plan for all people as we are created in the womb. But we do have a choice in the outcome. Sometimes people choose to live by their own way and not God’s way.

For those who have chosen God’s way, choosing to follow Christ, we are called to bring God glory through the living out of our faith. We do this by living as Christ lived. In this living we take our place in a long line of disciples who have shared the faith with others. On this All Saints’ Day we recall those who have lived as Christ, teaching and modeling for us what living a life of faith looks and feels like. In turn, we teach it to and we model it for others – in our homes, in our church, in our workplace, in our community…

We can do so because we have “heard the word of truth in Christ, which is the good news of your salvation.” Accepting this good news we are indwelled by the Holy Spirit. Paul describes this constant presence of the Spirit as a “down payment on our inheritance.” This is a foretaste of being in glory in eternity. The Spirit in us keeps us connected to God. Deposited in our hearts, we are empowered by God. Through this power at work in and through us, we can pass on the faith to others, to the next generation of saints. May it be so!

Prayer: Lord God, today we pray for one another as Paul prayed for the church in Ephesus. Lord, give us “a spirit of wisdom” so that we can know you more and more. Open the “eyes of our heart” so that we can live out the hope that we find in Christ Jesus. Lead us to spiritually kneel before Christ, the head of all things. Amen.


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Long and Steady

Reading: Luke 16:27-31

Luke 16:31 – “If they don’t listen to Moses and the prophets, then neither will they be persuaded if someone rises from the dead.”

In a rare moment for the rich man, he thinks of someone else. So great is his torment in hell, he begs Abraham to send Lazarus to his five brothers. Perhaps this warning will save his brothers from “this place of torment.” More importantly, hearing Lazarus’ story might change their hearts, shifting some of their focus away from self to those in need.

Abraham reminds the rich man that his five brothers have Moses and the prophets to listen to – just as the rich man had. The rich man knows that just as he did not, his brothers are not listening to the word of God. If he did, he would not be suffering in hell. This is why the rich man begs for “someone from the dead” to go to them. Maybe Lazarus will scare them into faith. It might – for a season. To walk the long walk of faith, that requires a steady diet of the word, not just one powerful moment.

Abraham says it this way to the rich man: “If they don’t listen to Moses and the prophets, then neither will they be persuaded if someone rises from the dead.” Many in Israel encountered one who would rise from the dead. The miracles did attract many followers. But when Jesus got down to the hard teachings, to the call to daily pick up one’s cross in order to be his disciple, then the crowd got a lot thinner. The powerful moment, yes, it can get our attention. And that moment can lead to a sustained change in one’s life. It is only so, however, when we daily choose to follow Jesus, placing his way of love and humble service ahead of our desires to please self.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you the powerful moments when we do feel or sense your presence in our lives. But Lord, don’t allow us to think that these moments are the foundation of our faith. Instead, teach us to walk the long and steady road of faithful discipleship, daily encountering you in small but transformative ways. Thank you, Lord. Amen.


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Wait… Trust…

Reading: Habakkuk 2:2-3

Habakkuk 2:3c – “If it delays, wait for it; for it is surely coming; it will not be late.”

Photo credit: Ben White

Today we hear the beginning of Habakkuk’s answer from God. In this case he has asked God how long will evil (Babylon) triumph over good (God’s people.) Habakkuk takes up his place on the fortress wall, waiting for God to respond. He commits to keeping watch, to waiting. At times our prayer life must take this posture. We must pray faithfully, asking our honest questions, offering our humble petitions. And then we too must wait and watch for God’s response.

In our reading for today, God begins by instructing the prophet to write these words down on a tablet, preserving these words. God then tells him that God’s word is for an “appointed time.” He’s told that God’s word will not deceive. And then, at the end of verses 3, God says, “If it delays, wait for it; for it is surely coming; it will not be late.” In these words God reminds Habakkuk and us of important truths and realities.

First, we are to remain steadfast in our faith. If God doesn’t answer our prayer that day or at least soon in our time frame, be patient and trust God. Pray through the doubt, questions, worry… Second, God will answer. There is no question, God’s answer is “surely coming.” And… it comes in God’s time. “It will not be late” reminds us that God’s answer will come at the absolute right and best time.

We can struggle with waiting patiently, especially when we’re asking the “how long?” questions or when the suffering is deep. We are called to trust in God and to remain faithful to believing that God’s plans are best. This is essential because when we get too bound up in “when” God will answer our prayers, then we sometimes miss the “how.” If God’s answer isn’t just what we thought it should be, in our preoccupation we miss God’s answer. Patience, trust, faith. May these practices be the guides in our prayer life

Prayer: Lord God, in our me-first world, help us to keep a God-first faith. In our quick, get it now world, guide us to a steadfast trust in you and your eternal ways. In our selfish, ego driven world, remind us that you hold it all – including us – in your hands. In our my way or the highway world, open our eyes to see the breadth of your love and care, not just for us but for all of your creation. Amen.


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A Great Crowd

Reading: Revelation 6:1-8:5

Revelation 7:9 – “After this I looked, and there was a great crowd that no one could number… from every nation, tribe, people, and language.”

In chapter 6 the Lamb opens 6 of the 7 seals. The first four bring the four horses and their riders. Death, war, violence, famine, and disease sweep across the earth. One-fourth of humanity dies. The fifth seal is broken and those who have been martyred for their faith cry out, “How long…?” Given white robes, they’re told to wait just a little longer. The sixth seal is broken, first bringing a great earthquake. Then the sun turns black and the moon red. The stars fall from the sky. All the people of the earth try to hide. They beg the mountains, “Fall on us!” They know that the great day of wrath has come upon them.

The seal of God is then placed upon the foreheads of the 144,000 – 12,000 from each remaining tribe of Israel. John looks back to heaven and sees a great multitude. In 7:9 we read, “After this I looked, and there was a great crowd that no one could number… from every nation, tribe, people, and language.” Wearing robes that have been washed white in the blood of the Lamb, holding palm branches, they worship God. They’ve gone through hardship. Now they will not hunger or thirst. God has wiped away every tear. The Lamb guides them to the life-giving waters. The seventh seal is broken and there is silence in heaven for half an hour.

Seven angels with seven trumpets take their places. Another angel holds a bowl with incense. The prayers of the saints rise in the smoke up to God. The bowl is then filled with fire from the altar. It is thrown down upon the earth. The angels are about to blow their trumpets.

Prayer: Lord God, over and over, Old Testament and New, we hear the calls to change hearts and lives. Today in our reading the outcomes of our choices become clearer and clearer. As we rejoice today in the coming of our Savior, remind us of his ultimate purpose at the end of this age. Lead and guide us, O God, to live lives worthy of our calling. Amen.


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The Long Walk of Faith

Reading: 2nd Timothy 3-4

2nd Timothy 4:7 – “I have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.”

As I read Paul’s words to Timothy today, they seem very relevant to our current time. Many are selfish and love money, power, status. They “collect” or tune into only those who tell them what they want to hear. Many slander others, being critical and conceited. Others are reckless and seek only pleasure. When it suits them, “they will look religious.” But does the relevance end here? In verse 9 we read, “They won’t get very far. Their foolishness will become obvious.” While absolutely true in God’s kingdom, is it so here on earth?

Paul then presents his example, standing in sharp contrast to this earthly example. He invites Timothy and us to pay attention to his “teaching, conduct, purpose, faithfulness, patience, love, and endurance.” He makes us all aware of the cost of discipleship: “Anyone who wants to lead a holy life will be harassed.” Because of this reality, Paul encourages Timothy and us to stay rooted in the scriptures – what we’ve learned and been taught. Scripture is useful for “teaching… showing mistakes… correcting… training character.” Scripture equips the faithful to “do everything that is good.” What a sharp contrast to the way of the world!

In chapter 4 Paul commissions Timothy. This commission applies to us too. Paul charges Timothy with preaching the word always – whether convenient or inconvenient – and with correcting, confronting, and encouraging with patience and instruction. Paul encourages self-control, an essential for the long walk of faith. Giving his own example, Paul writes, “I have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.” Paul knows heaven awaits. Yet he walks forward, trusting that the God who has stood by him will continue to do so until he wears that “champion’s wreath.” May this too be our walk of faith.

Prayer: Lord God, the walk is not always easy or smooth. It can be tempting to just look religious instead of being truly faithful. The outside voices can be loud and the coming suffering is scary. In those moments, remind us of your truths and promises in scripture and help us to feel your Spirit presence in our hearts. With these, lead and guide us to “preach the word” always, using words when needed. Amen.


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With Longing

Reading: Isaiah 24-27

‭Isaiah 25:8 – “He will swallow up death forever. The LORD God will wipe tears from every face.”

Today’s reading contains themes not found elsewhere in Isaiah 1-39. These chapters are often called “Isaiah’s Apocalypse.” Most scholars believe this section was written at least a century after the rest of First Isaiah.

Chapter 24 prophesies a destruction that will be total and complete. All peoples and even the earth will be no more. On that day, “all joy has reached its dusk; happiness is exiled from the earth.” This brings to mind the final days of this present earth as described in Revelation. The kings of this earth will be gathered, shut in a prison to be punished. We’re just missing the word ‘forever’ here.

Chapters 25 and 26 mostly celebrates God’s final salvation. Isaiah exults God for the “wonderful things” that God has done. God will “swallow up” the veil that separated and will “swallow up death forever. The LORD God will wipe tears from every face.” These ‘end times’ themes and understandings appear here and in Daniel 12 – nowhere else in the Old Testament. The idea that “corpses will rise” and that “those who dwell in the dust” will one day shout for joy will not be accepted or even really developed until New Testament times.

These cosmic and end times themes continue in chapter 27. God defeats the cosmic forces of chaos. The image of the vineyard/garden returns. Jacob will “take root” and Israel will “bloom and sprout.” God will gather up the chosen people “one by one.” Those who were “lost” will come and “bow to the Lord at his holy mountain.” One day there will be a new heaven and earth. In 26:9 Isaiah writes, “My spirit within me watches for you.” With the same longing, may it be so for you and me as we await the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Lord God, we long for the day when you forever swallow up death. We await the moment that the trumpet blasts and you make all things new. Walk with us day by day as we seek to bring your kingdom more and more to this earth. Amen.


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I’m here… Send me.

Reading: Isaiah 5-7

‭Isaiah 6:8 – “’Whom should I send, and who will go for us?’”… “‘I’m here; send me.'”

Isaiah 5 begins with God’s lament over Israel and Judah. They were planted as a vineyard in a land flowing with milk and honey. God cleared the nations before them, built a kingdom, ordered their living. But they turned rotten, choosing idols and other evils over God. So God removed the hedge of protection and allowed the vineyard to be trampled. God expected justice and righteousness but got bloodshed and distress.

Blame and judgment are given to the greedy, to the gluttons, to the cheaters, to the prideful, and to the oppressors. God extended a hand against them, a warning sign, but their evil persisted. So God called a nation from far away – “hurrying, swiftly they come!” Arrows sharpened, swords drawn, roaring like a lion, darkness comes.

Chapter 6 shifts everything as Isaiah finds himself in heaven. God is high and exalted. Winged creatures sing of God’s glory and holiness. Isaiah suddenly realizes that he is a sinner in God’s presence. A winged creature touches his unclean lips with a coal from the altar, purifying him. God asks aloud, “Whom should I send, and who will go for us?” Isaiah responds, “I’m here; send me.” But God says to him, they won’t hear, they won’t see. Isaiah asks, “How long?” Sadly, until all lies in ruin and the people are in exile in a foreign land.

We find the beginning of this story in chapter 7. Aram and Israel unite against the approaching Assyrians. Judah refuses to join them, so they attack Jerusalem. This fails. God tells King Ahaz not to fear. They’re just “smoking torches” who will soon fall – before son born “Immanuel” learns to tell good from evil. Israel will fall and Judah will have a scary and powerful new neighbor.

Prayer: Lord God, how easily we see ourselves in these chapters. You have good plans for us and you make a way but we often fall off the path. We choose evil over good. We fall into sin yet you call us again and again to step into your grace, to be restored and made new again. You invite us into mission and service. Sometimes we do go willingly but often times we are fearful or selfish. You promise to be with us and to go with us. Help us to more regularly declare, “I’m here; send me.” Amen.


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What Great Love

Reading: Song of Songs 5-8

‭Song of Songs 6:3 – “I belong to my lover and my lover belongs to me.”

Today’s reading begins with a dream or fantasy about a missed opportunity to be with her lover. She was sleeping but did finally go to the door, but he was gone. She searches but doesn’t find him. She longs for the one who is “radiant and ruddy… whose mouth is everything sweet.” Her friends ask where he has gone. He has gone to the garden. She worries not and declares, “I belong to my lover and my lover belongs to me.”

To him, she is an overwhelming site – as beautiful and lovely as Jerusalem. Even though there are 60 queens and 80 secondary wives, she is “my perfect one… one of a kind.” In chapter 7 he admires her. She is graceful and has “smooth curves.” She is “so beautiful, so lovely.” He has a strong desire for her. She makes another statement of belonging. This passionate and deeply intimate love is symbolic of the love possible between God and us. O how to see God this way. God sees us in this way.

Love is consummated as chapter 7 concludes. He holds her, embraces her. We find such a place in God’s embrace once we declare our commitment to God. God also longs to set “a seal over our hearts.” God longs for us to have a love for God that is “as strong as death.” God’s son modeled this kind of love for his father and for us. May we do so as well.

Prayer: Lord God, what great depth of love you have for us! What great passion and commitment is found in your heart. Help us to fully receive this love and then guide us to reflect it back out in our relationships and into the world. Amen.


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A Holy Covenant

Reading: Song of Songs 1-4

‭Song of Songs 4:12 – “An enclosed garden is my sister, my bride; an enclosed pool, a sealed spring.”

Today and tomorrow we read Song of Songs. On one level it is a song that celebrates the love of two people. On another level, it is an expression of the ideal love between God and humanity/Israel/the church – depending on your time reference. As we are in the Christian world, we will focus on the relationship between God (the man) and the church (the woman), both corporate and individual.

Chapter 1 expresses longing. The woman longs for the man’s kisses. The man brings her in and wants to exult and rejoice over her. God longs for our love. God longs to exult and rejoice over our faithfulness. The woman longs to be with him. He says to “follow the tracks of the herds.” We long for community and relationship with God. God says to follow the instructions, read my Word. They rejoice in one another’s beauty. We were created in the image of God. This is at the core of all of our relationships.

In chapter 2 the woman sees her live as an apple tree among the wild trees. We are invited to live holy lives, to be set apart from the world. She needs sustaining, weary from expressing her love. We too need God in many ways. God provides for us in numerous ways. He draws near and looks in on his love. He waits. God too longs to see us, to fear our voice. She declares that they belong to one another. Ideally we say this to God. God says, “I am the Lord your God… You are mine.”

Chapter 3 is a searching and a finding, a process that we repeat often with God. Once there, we find it beautiful too. Chapter 4 celebrates the beauty of the woman. The church is beautiful too when love and grace flow down and out into the world, reflecting God’s love and grace given to us. The man calls his love an “enclosed garden.” This implies a closed relationship, a holy covenant love. May it be so for you and for me in our relationship with God.

Prayer: Lord God, how lovely and beautiful you are! You are steadfast and true, coming to us again and again with a love that never fails, with a grace that never runs out. Lead and guide us to love you and one another in these same ways. Amen.