pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: pray


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A Safe and Sacred Space

Reading: Philippians 4:4-7

Philippians 4:6 – “Bring up all your requests to God in prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks.”

Photo credit: Alex Woods

Our passage today begins with Paul encouraging the Philippians to be glad in the Lord and to let this internal feeling overflow into how they treat others. For Paul, his joy or gladness comes from the trust and faith that he has in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. For Paul, being joyful leads to gentleness. In turn, this heart condition will show through in how one treats others. Likewise, when one is grumpy or unhappy, one tends to be short or harsh with others. Because God is near to Paul, he finds joy and gentleness in ample supply. The same can be true for us.

Paul’s trust and faith leads him to write to the Philippians, “Don’t be anxious about anything.” He is inviting them into the space that he finds when he makes the effort and the choice to trust God. Offering a way to counter the anxious feelings (and the doubt, fear, worry…) Paul tells them, “Bring up all your requests to God in prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks.” In moments of need, pray! Pray to God, Paul advises. In prayer we draw near to God. Drawing near to God, laying our prayers before God, we receive a peace from God. As Paul shares, it is a peace “that exceeds all understanding.”

Offering up our prayers and petitions – along with our thanksgiving – places our trust, our concerns, our very selves in God’s presence and care. In this place, we are kept safe, heart and mind, surrounded by God’s love. May we ever draw close, entering into a safe and sacred space through prayer.

Prayer: Lord God, call us again and again to the safe space of prayer. Entering into your divine presence, fill us with joy, gladness, faith, and trust. Help us to release our worries and doubts, our fears and anxieties. Bring us to a place of assurance, knowing that your love and care are greater than anything that the world can bring our way. Thank you Lord. Amen.


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Not My Will

Readings: Luke 22:39-42 and Matthew 21:18-22

Luke 22:42b – “However, not my will but your will must be done.”

Photo credit: Falaq Lazuardi

As Jesus enters his final days on earth he goes to the Mount of Olives to pray. In the first verse we read “as was his custom.” Jesus Christ was a person of prayer. Even though he was God in the flesh, as a man he was also human. Perhaps his admonition to his disciples to not fall into temptation was also a reminder to himself. Jesus knows what lies ahead. This is the “cup of suffering” that he prays about. It is a cup that the human Jesus would rather not have to drink at this moment. At its core this is a “if there’s another way, God” kind of prayer. We’ve all prayed this kind of prayer – in many forms, in many situations. Then, from a place of humility and faith and surrender, we’ve prayed as Jesus prays, “Not my will but your will must be done.”

Our Matthew passage for today also comes from Jesus’ final week. It’s a few days earlier – on Monday instead of Thursday. Returning to the city, Jesus is hungry. He sees a fig tree but finds nothing but leaves. This tree is symbolic of Israel’s fruitless faith. With a word from Jesus, the tree dries up. The amazed disciples are told, “If you have faith and don’t doubt” then they will do this and more. They will even be able to move a mountain with their words. Extending the idea of the power of faith without doubt, Jesus adds, “If you have faith, you will receive whatever you pray for.”

If we combine the core teaching of these two lessons from Jesus, we find a key practice of our prayer life: pray in faith, aligned with God’s will. We do not always know God’s will. In these cases, we are to pray as Jesus prayed in the garden, with humility and surrender, “Not my will but your will must be done.”

Prayer: Lord God, as we walk through this life, seeking to be faithful and true to you, strengthen our faith and our trust in you. By your Spirit, lead us to grow in our faith, aligning ourselves more and more with your will and way. And using Christ’s example, guide us to humbly bend our will to your will. Amen.


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A Heart for All People

Reading: 1st Timothy 2:1-6a

1st Timothy 2:2 – “Pray… so that we can live quiet and peaceful lives in complete godliness and dignity.”

This past week we read passages that spoke of the timeless and eternal truths of God and our faith. We also read some challenging passages that were written for a time and place different from our own. Hopefully both added to our understanding of the Bible, strengthening our relationship with God as well. Today Paul writes to Timothy about another essential practice of our faith.

Paul begins by asking Timothy to pray for all people. Paul understands that God’s call is to all people – so that they can be saved. Understanding that Jesus died to bring eternal life to all people is key to understanding who and what God is. God is generous in love, wide in mercy, deep in grace. Paul encourages Timothy and us to pray for those in authority. In his day, these would be the ones persecuting and harassing the church. This aligns with Jesus’ call to pray for our enemies.

We read the “why” concerning prayer in the last part of verse 2: “So that we can live quiet and peaceful lives in complete godliness and dignity.” Praying brings a peace and a calm to us. It changes our hearts, not just the hearts we’re praying for or about. This changed hearts is reflected in our lives and in our interactions with those we’re praying for and about. We better reflect the godliness and dignity Paul speaks of. These things, in turn, reveal God and Jesus to others – again, those God wants to be saved. May we be people of deep and sincere prayers, changing hearts, beginning with ours.

Prayer: Lord God, open our hearts to your great love, mercy, and grace. May these be the foundation of our prayers and, therefore, our lives. Help us to have your heart for all people. Amen.


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Blameless and Rejoicing

Reading: Jude

Jude 1:3 – “Instead, I must write to urge you to fight for the faith delivered once and for all to God’s holy people.”

Jude focuses mostly on repudiating the false teachers or “dreamers” that are present in this community of faith. In the opening verses Jude states that he wanted to write to them about their shared salvation. But… “Instead, I must write to urge you to fight for the faith delivered once and for all to God’s holy people.” These “godless people” have taken grace and turned it into an excuse for “unrestrained immortality.” Doing so, they deny Christ.

Jude then uses several examples of people who have turned from their faith, doubting God or becoming inwardly focused. Perhaps following 2nd Peter’s lead, Jude names the exodus’ first generation, the fallen angels, and Sodom and Gomorrah. He includes Cain and also adds Balaam and Korah. Using wonderful metaphors from nature, Jude likens these dreamers to “jagged rocks just below the surface” and to “waterless clouds.” He reminds them that Enoch prophesied about these people and the judgment that they will receive.

Jude then closes with words of encouragement. First, he says, remember the words of the apostles. They too warned about these scoffers. Second, stay together. Build each other up, pray in the Spirit, keep each other in God’s love. Be people of mercy and rescue “from the fire” those you can. The letter closes with a beautiful blessing. We are reminded that “glory, majesty, power, and authority” belong to “the one who is able to keep you from falling, to present you blameless and rejoicing before his presence.” Yes, may all of this and more be our blessing!

Prayer: Lord God, Balaam, Korah and such may be unfamiliar to many, but the temptations of this world and our natural tendency towards selfishness are very familiar realities. Walk with us, O Spirit of God. Encourage us to walk with one another in faith. Draw us to your beautiful blessing. Amen.


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Sincere Love

Reading: 1st Peter 3-5

1st Peter 4:7-8 – “Be self-controlled and clearheaded so you can pray. Above all, show sincere love to each other, because love brings about the forgiveness of many sins.”

1st Peter 3-5 is mostly about the ways to conduct ourselves as followers of Jesus Christ. In chapter 3 Peter writes about having an inner beauty that can win over non-believers and also about honoring those who are weaker. He encourages all believers to be of one mind (Christ’s), to be compassionate, and to be modest. When someone asks about our hope, be ready to speak with “respectful humility.”

Peter also addresses suffering. He begins with a reminder that Jesus Christ “suffered on account of sins, once for all.” This was so a believer can enter into the presence of God. Peter encourages us to “arm yourself with his way of thinking.” He invites us to rejoice when we share in Christ’s suffering because then one day we will rejoice when his glory is revealed. If we suffer in Christ’s name, Peter declares we are blessed because “the Spirit of God rests on you.”

Christian behavior receives much attention in these chapters. Don’t pay back evil or insults with evil or insults – give blessings. Don’t waste time doing what unbelievers do. Instead, “Be self-controlled and clearheaded so you can pray. Above all, show sincere love to each other, because love brings about the forgiveness of many sins.” Open your homes and serve one another using the gifts God has given. Humble yourselves. Throw your anxiety on God. (He cares about you.) Keep alert – the devil is on the prowl. Resist and stand firm in the faith, knowing that others are also enduring suffering. And in the end, “the God of all grace will himself restore, empower, strengthen, and establish you.” Thanks be to God!

Prayer: Lord God, build up in each of us obedience, compassion, and a humble servant’s heart. Walk with us, bringing strength and encouragement during the trials and suffering. In those moments, remind us of the way of Christ, he who suffered for each and every one of us. Daily help us to model a genuine faith, standing firm in your love and grace. Thank you, Lord. Amen.


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The Walk of Sincere Faith

Reading: 1st Timothy 1-3

1st Timothy 1:5 – “The goal of instruction is love from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith.”

1st and 2nd Timothy and Titus are “pastoral epistles,” written to teach these new pastors how to lead. A task for young Timothy is to counter the false teachings present in Epaphras. These letters include practical advice aimed at forming faithful communities of faith. Paul identifies Timothy as “my true child in faith.” He then identifies the keys to good instruction as living from the heart, keeping a good conscience, and holding to a sincere faith.

Next Paul addresses the Law. Used rightly it can guide sinners – those who are sexually unfaithful, untruthful, and opposed to sound teaching. Reflecting back on his own life, Paul rejoices in the mercy and grace that he himself received from God. Even though the “biggest sinner,” Paul is now an example for others.

Paul offers encouragement to Timothy. Based on the prophecies made about Timothy, Paul believes that Timothy can “wage a good war” for Christ. In chapter 2 the instruction begins: pray for everyone. Live quiet and peaceful lives. Look to the one mediator, Jesus Christ. Paul then touches on the expected behavior of the folks in the community of faith. Men are to pray with holy hands. Women are to be modest, to do good works, and to learn from their husbands. Paul says all will be well with both husband and wife if both are walking in love, faith, holiness, and self-control.

In chapter 3 Paul speaks of the qualifications for supervisors and servants in the church. Supervisors are to be without fault, skilled at teaching, faithful, gentle, peaceable, and not greedy. Servants should be dignified, sober, and faithful. They shouldn’t gossip or be greedy. Paul closes this section telling Timothy that these instructions are in case he is delayed. And remember the mystery of Christ!

Prayer: Lord God, in our walk of faith, help us to be dedicated to you alone. Lead us to love well, to be sincere and honest, to be people of peace. Guard our hearts from the things of this world, keeping our focus on the things that are above. In all we do and say, may we bring you the glory. Amen.


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Spirit, Body, Soul

Reading: 1st Thessalonians 4-5

1st Thessalonians 5:21-22 – “Examine everything carefully and hang on to what is good. Avoid every kind of evil.”

Chapter 4 begins with an encouragement to live in a way that pleases God. Paul encourages dedication to God and avoidance of sexual immortality. He encourages them to love each other well, as they’ve been taught. Paul encourages them to live quiet lives and to earn their own living. Paul then addresses a concern. There is anxiety over the believers who have died before Jesus returned. The event that was thought to occur very soon after Jesus’ death has not happened. Paul assures them that those “who are dead in Christ” will rise first, followed by those who are still living in Christ. In this way, “we will always be with the Lord.”

Paul addresses the inevitable “how” and “when” questions next. He reminds them that the day of the Lord will come “like a thief in the night.” Heading off worry, he next reminds them that they are not in darkness. Therefore the day will not catch them by surprise. Staying awake and sober (faithful), they will be ready. Wearing faithfulness, love, and hope, they will be prepared for the day. So, Paul says, keep building one another up.

In the “Final Instructions” we receive a flurry of directives. It is as if Paul has much yet to say but has only a little space in his parchment. There are about 18 instructions found in 12 short verses. In verses 16-18 we find the familiar “Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in every situation.” In verses 21-22 we read, “Examine everything carefully and hang on to what is good. Avoid every kind of evil.” May we hear and apply these instructions to our faithful living, so that our spirit, body, and soul will be “intact and blameless” too on the day of the Lord.

Prayer: Lord God, as children of light, guide us to live in ways that are pleasing to you, that bring you glory. By the power of your Holy Spirit, strengthen and encourage us, build us up, and empower us to be good in the world. In all ways may light and love shine into the darkness and pain of our world. Amen.


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Trusting, Confessing

Reading: Romans 8:18-10:21

Romans 10:10 – “Trusting with the heart leads to righteousness, and confessing with the mouth leads to salvation.”

Photo credit: Shane Rounce

As we continue in Romans 8 today we find great hope. First Paul reminds us that this present suffering is nothing compared to the coming glory. With hope we await being “set free” as we who have the Spirit become the “first crop.” Today these words remind me of the rapture imagery found in Revelation.

Paul then speaks of the Spirit’s role in our lives. The Spirit intercedes for us, praying for us, “consistent with God’s will.” Accordingly, God works all things – us included – towards the good. God is good. To work this process out, we are increasingly conformed to Christ’s image. In this process we become less and less like the world. Therefore nothing worldly – trouble, harassment, famine… death, rulers… – nothing can separate us from God’s love that we find in and through Jesus. Hallelujah!

The apostle shifts gears in chapter 9. Paul laments Israel’s rejection of Christ. He would give up his salvation to see Israel turn to Christ. Yet Paul also recognizes that this is God’s plan unfolding, not his. This is a good reminder to us. It is God who shows mercy and compassion to whom God chooses. This is why it is the Gentiles who came to faith that leads to righteousness. The Jews instead sought to “establish their own righteousness.” But keeping all of the Law proved impossible. The righteousness that leads to salvation comes only through faith. Paul summarizes in 10:10 – “Trusting with the heart leads to righteousness, and confessing with the mouth leads to salvation.” May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, faith, trust, hope, obedience, surrender – such simple concepts in many ways. In an ideal world, so easy. Yet our world is not easy or ideal. Many things can challenge or assault our faith – real things like death, harassment, famine… Lord, may your Spirit intercede for us always and may it walk with us, strengthening and encouraging us in our walk of faith. As ones who are conformed to your Son, and therefore to you, use us as love and mercy and compassion in your world. Amen.


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Growing and Widening

Reading: Acts 10-12

Acts 11:17 – “If God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, then who am I? Could I stand in God’s way?”

Photo credit: Uta Scholl

The circle opens wider as God’s angel tells Cornelius to send for Peter. He does so. Meanwhile, Peter has a vision while praying on a rooftop. A sheet holding animals, reptiles, and birds descends from heaven. Peter is told to kill and eat. “Absolutely not!” is the response. Three times this happens and the sheet returns to heaven. Cornelius’ messengers arrive and tell their story. Peter invites them in. They leave in the morning. As Peter is preaching to a receptive audience the Spirit came upon them just as it had at Pentecost. These Gentiles are baptized in the name of Jesus. The circle widens.

When Peter returns to Jerusalem, some of the Jewish believers question Peter’s actions. He entered the home of an uncircumcised Gentile! Peter explained the whole story. Recalling the Lord’s promise of baptizing with the Holy Spirit, he then says, “If God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, then who am I? Could I stand in God’s way?” The church decided God is at work; it is good. The church continues to grow and spread. In Antioch they first intentionally preach directly to Gentiles. Many come to believe. Barnabas is sent to investigate. He is overjoyed to see God at work. He gets Saul and they preach in Antioch for a year. The disciples are first called “Christians” in Antioch.

Turning to chapter 12, persecution comes from civil authorities. Herod has James killed and then he arrests Peter. Awaiting arraignment, Peter is rescued by an angel as the church prays earnestly. So unbelievable is the escape, it takes a while for the door to Mary’s home to be opened. After telling his story, Peter leaves. Meanwhile, an arrogant Herod dies in Caesarea, punished by God. Barnabas and Saul, along with John Mark, return to Antioch as the church continues to grow.

Prayer: Lord God, you work in amazing and sometimes unbelievable ways. You open the church to “outsiders” and you open prison doors to free the imprisoned. You always provide a way and you continue to call us to trust in where you are leading, growing both our faith and the family of faith. Thank you for your love and faithfulness, O God. Amen.


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Divinity and Humanity, Strengths and Weaknesses

Reading: Luke 22

Luke 22:42 – “Not my will but your will must be done.”

Our reading begins with Judas agreeing to hand Jesus over. It must be an opportunity without a crowd. This time comes as Jesus goes to the Mount of Olives to pray, which he does regularly. Another regular event was the celebration of the Passover meal. Peter and John are tasked with setting it up. At the table, though, Jesus becomes irregular. He changes the words and the meaning of this ancient ritual. The bread represents his body and the cup of wine represents the new covenant of his blood. He will become the new Passover lamb, sacrificed for many.

At the table, Jesus tells the disciples that his betrayer is present. They question who it could be, which leads to an argument about who is the greatest. To prove that we’re not the “weak link” we often resort to sharing our strengths to prove our own innocence. Jesus reigns them in, reminding them to become low, like a servant, like Jesus himself. He also offers words of encouragement. Because they have (and will) continue to walk with Jesus, one day they’ll eat and drink at his table in heaven. One day they’ll each sit on a throne overseeing the tribes of Israel.

Jesus shifts gears, sharing with the disciples that Satan will “sift you all like wheat.” Peter boldly states that he is ready to go to prison or even to die with Jesus. Alas, Peter, you will deny Jesus three times this very night – all before the rooster crows. Jesus then goes to the Mount of Olives to pray. He first asks God to take away this cup of suffering and death. He then prays, “Not my will but your will must be done.” Jesus is committed to God’s plan. He’s then betrayed by a kiss, is arrested, is beaten and questioned. In the midst of all this, he heals a servant. Peter denies him three times, then breaks down, sobbing uncontrollably. Jesus makes the claim that he will now be seated at God’s right hand. His words seal his fate.

Prayer: Lord God, a plan hurtles towards completion. We know the story and the steps. We’re reminded of both Jesus’ divinity and of his humanity. We too carry these within us. We’re also reminded of the disciples’ strengths and weaknesses. We too possess plenty of both. Lord, be present to us today so that we too might know and follow your will. Amen.