pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: love


by Leave a comment

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.


by Leave a comment

To Know God More

Reading: Acts 10:1-8

Acts 10:4 – “Your prayers and your compassionate acts are like a memorial to God.”

At the end of the gospels Jesus breathes his Holy Spirit on the disciples. The Spirit’s indwelling presence gives them the power and the courage to spread the good news. As Acts begins we see the Spirit at work as the church grows in spite of persecution from the Jews. Soon the Holy Spirit falls on anyone who accepts Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, empowering them to become faithful witnesses for Christ. This Holy Spirit presence gives new life to the church. The role of prayer was elevated and God frequently responded.

In Acts 10 we meet Cornelius. He is a Roman citizen and centurion who believes in God. He is a Gentile, though, not a Jew. He believes in, worships, and prays to God but is not under the Law or Torah. Cornelius regularly gives to the needy. In verse four an angel says to him, Your prayers and your compassionate acts are like a memorial to God.” In response to hearing his devout prayers, God initiates a connection with Peter, an original disciple of Jesus and one of the leaders of the church in Jerusalem. This is a huge turning point in Acts and in the evolution of the church.

As the story unfolds, God’s answers to Cornelius’ prayers are revealed. His faith soars as he and his household receive the Holy Spirit and are then baptized in the name of Jesus. Cornelius prayed to grow closer to God, to know God more. You don’t get much better start than to receive the Holy Spirit into your heart!

Prayer: Lord God, we pray as Cornelius must’ve prayer: Lord, draw us closer to you, deeper into relationship with you. Stir that Holy Spirit in our hearts, remind us of our baptism and first love, Jesus Christ. Stir the Spirit to new life within our hearts. Reignite our passion and our commitment to be sharers of our faith. Amen.


by Leave a comment

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.


by Leave a comment

God’s Promises

Reading: Numbers 13:25-33

Numbers 13:30 – “Now Caleb calmed the people before Moses and said, ‘We must go up and take possession of it, because we are more than able to do it.'”

This week, as we weave our way to the Jericho story and the fulfillment of some of God’s promises, we begin where most of us falter in our trust in said promises. In the story of God’s people, they have arrived on the edge of the Promised Land. In 13:1 God says to Moses, “Send out men to explore the land of Canaan, which I’m giving to the Israelites.” A leader from each of the twelve tribes is sent to explore the land which God promised to their ancestor, Abraham.

The twelve men return after exploring Canaan for forty days. Their report begins by stating that the land “actually is full of milk and honey.” This phrase is used often to describe the Promised Land – in Exodus 3 and 33, in Deuteronomy 6 and 26… It is a phrase that implies blessing and abundance. If this is actually true, then what of the promise given to Abraham and reiterated to Isaac, Jacob…?

The “but” comes next. There are powerful people living in huge fortified cities. And there are giants. The explorers mostly see challenge. Fear and doubt and mistrust rise up. Joshua and Caleb, though, see promise. It is Caleb who speaks up in faith, saying, “We must go up and take possession of it, because we are more than able to do it.” This is trusting in God’s promises. Fear, however, is greater this day. The men who felt like “grasshoppers” next to these giants convince the people that God’s promises cannot be trusted. There are giants there! They will return to wandering the desert until this generation dies off. Only Caleb and Joshua will one day enter the Promised Land.

Prayer: Lord God, in our hearts we know that your promises are true. You are always faithful and steadfast in your love for us, your people. Lord, in those moments when the world pushes up against our faith, in the times when fear and doubt rise, whisper into our hearts and minds. In your Spirit power, guide us to step forward unafraid, trusting in you alone. Amen.


by Leave a comment

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.


by Leave a comment

Faithful Love

Reading: Psalm 118:1-2 and 19-24

Psalm 118:22 – “The stone rejected by the builders is now the main foundation stone!”

Psalm 118 is a song of praise that celebrates God’s deliverance. Originally used as a song that was sung after the Passover meal, it celebrated Israel’s exodus from slavery in Egypt. These words, however, also carry a broader meaning. This song extolling God’s love and goodness can be applicable at other times.

Verses 1 and 2 would’ve been used call-response style. The leader would declare verse 1: “Give thanks to the Lord, because he is good, because his faithful love lasts forever.” The gathered people would respond: “God’s faithful love lasts forever!” What a great reminder as one begins to offer a response to the Lord.

Skipping to verses 19-24, the scene shifts to the temple entrance. The writer asks for the gate to be opened. The response reminds the people that only the righteous may enter the Lord’s gate. Qualifying and entering the temple, the psalmist thanks God for answering his or her prayers. This prayer is about restoring Israel. In verse 22 we read, “The stone rejected by the builders is now the main foundation stone!” Restoring what was once held in slavery and oppression, Israel is once again God’s people, living in the Promised Land. Israel rejoices in and celebrates this time of salvation.

These verses also connect to Jesus. On this Holy Saturday we can rejoice and celebrate that the one who was rejected and killed by Israel’s religious leaders has become the cornerstone. In and through his death we’ve been freed from our slavery to sin. Tomorrow we celebrate the salvation given to us through his resurrection. Thanks be to the God whose faithful love lasts forever and ever!

Prayer: Lord God, we celebrate and rejoice in your great love for us. Walk with us and draw us into your righteousness. Lift our voices in praise and our lives in faithful witness to your saving grace. Amen.


by Leave a comment

Our Great High Priest

Reading: Hebrews 10:19-24

Hebrews 10:19 – “Brothers and sisters, we have confidence that we can enter the Holy of Holies by means of Jesus’ blood.”

Hebrews 10 begins with a description of Christ’s “once-for-all” sacrifice. The author explains that Jesus, through his sacrificial death, put an end to the old sacrificial system. This system was unable to “take away our sins.” In addition, the mechanics of the system prevented a personal connection to God. The priest heard your sin and offered the atoning sacrifice on your behalf. There was also a second barrier to God. The Holy of Holies, the space which held the ark (God’s presence,) was separated off by a huge curtain. The high priest alone entered this most intimate and sacred space just once a year, seeking forgiveness and blessing for the people of God.

Verses 19-24 are a summary of what Christ’s sacrifice means for us. In the first verses we read, “Brothers and sisters, we have confidence that we can enter the Holy of Holies by means of Jesus’ blood.” As Christ breathed his last breath the curtain in the temple was literally torn in two, top to bottom. The physical barrier was removed. Christ opened the way, “a new and living way,” so that we could have a personal relationship with God. Christ is our new “great high priest” that invites us to draw near to God with a genuine, cleansed heart. Forgiveness and cleansing are ours every time we confess and repent of our sins. Jesus’ blood was and is the “once-for-all” sacrifice that stones for our sin. Hebrews also reminds us that we can “hold onto the confession of our hope,” because Jesus is faithful. We have confessed Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. It is only in and through him that we can remain faithful too. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the new covenant, one written on our hearts because Christ’s Spirit dwells in our hearts. This personal and intimate connection is a great gift. You are with us always. Lord, lead and guide us to live out our faith, encouraging one another in love. May this love lead us to be and do good in the world, drawing others into the new and living hope that we have in you. Amen.


by Leave a comment

What God Has Done

Reading: Psalm 22:19-31

Psalm 22:22 – “I will declare your name to my brothers and sisters; I will praise you in the very center of the congregation.”

Photo credit: Robert Linder

Returning to Psalm 22 today we pick up on the desperate tone that dominated yesterday’s verses. David invites God, his strength, to come quickly and to help and deliver him. He pleas for rescue from the dogs, lion, and wild oxen that surrounded and threatened him. At the end of verse 21, though, there is a shift: “you have answered me!”

In verses 22-31 David offers a hymn of praise. In verse 22 David writes, “I will declare your name to my brothers and sisters; I will praise you in the very center of the congregation.” God’s rescue and restoration are worthy of his praise and worship. In the New Testament, in Hebrews 2:12, the author claims these words for Jesus. Jesus’ life and ministry declared who and what God was and is. His “work” was done in Israel, then center of God’s people.

David also sees a widening of the circle in verse 29. Here he declares that both the rich and powerful and the lowly and downtrodden will worship and kneel together before God. The inclusion of all peoples is a theme begun by Jesus and expands as the church moves out into the world. As the Psalm concludes, David looks to the future. He foresees a time when future generations will learn of the Lord. From Jesus’ life and example people will declare God’s righteousness, “telling them what God has done.” This is the sharing of the good news. As it was for the disciples and apostles, may it be for you and for me as we share our faith.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the rescue from those things that surround and assail us too. Thank you for your answers to our pleas. Lead us to declare what you have done. Guide us to speak of the rescues and transformations that you have worked in our lives again and again. Each day use us to witness to your love and grace. Amen.


by Leave a comment

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.


by Leave a comment

Professing Faith

Reading: John 19:38-42

John 19:42 – “Because it was the Jewish preparation day and the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus in it.”

Even though the disciples, the 11 men who had spent three years with Jesus, were hiding behind closed doors for fear of the Jewish religious leaders, two men step up in faith. The first is Joseph of Arimathea. He was a man of wealth. He was a member of the Jewish ruling council. He was a man of status and power. Up to this point he was a “secret disciple” of Jesus. In a profession of faith, Joseph goes to Pilate and asks for Jesus’ body.

Nicodemus was also there. He also has wealth, status, power. Nicodemus first met Jesus back in John 3, when he came under cover of night. Then he did not want to risk much, but he was drawn to Jesus. Although he left that conversation likely more confused and conflicted, Jesus must’ve continued to work on Nicodemus’ heart. Here he is now, in the light of day, professing his faith in Jesus as he brings myrrh and aloes to begin to prepare the body for burial. 75 pounds is extravagant – a gift fit for a king.

Beginning the process for a proper Jewish burial, Joseph and Nicodemus wrap the body in linen clothes, along with myrrh and aloes. Time was an issue. Sunset and the start of Sabbath were drawing near. Joseph and Nicodemus laid the body in a nearby tomb, planning to return on Sunday to finish the burial process. Two men, recently declaring their faith in Jesus, did what they could in the moment to honor their Jesus.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the brave witness of Joseph and Nicodemus. They risked much as they stepped forward to care for Jesus’ body. Joseph has the platform to gain an audience with Pilate. Nicodemus has much to lose too. May we see in these men an example of faith without fear of the world, of faith filled with trust in you. Lead and guide us, O Lord, to live out loud this kind of faith. Amen.