pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: presence


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The Natural Response

Reading: Psalm 105:1-11

Verse 8: “God remembers the covenant forever, the promise God made, for a thousand generations.”

Photo credit: Rainier Ridao

Psalm 105 calls us to praise God as we remember, recall, and celebrate God’s promises and God’s actions in the past. The psalmist is writing the people of God – to the Israelites – and inviting them to remember all of their great stories of faith. Stories about the parting of the sea or river, stories about the walls coming down, and stories about God’s presence in the hardest of times would be remembered and retold as a means to reassure themselves, to rekindle their faith and trust in God, and to pass these treasures along to the next generation. The natural response would be to praise God.

All of the Israelites stories were based upon the covenants – especially the one given to Abraham. This covenant promised descendants as numerous as the stars (or sand in the beach), the land in and around Canaan, and God’s presence with the people of God. Much of the rest of Psalm 105 speaks of the exodus out of Egypt and the journey to the Promised Land. This epic journey is filled with story after story detailing God’s love, care, provision, and presence. Again, as these stories are told and the covenants are remembered, praise is the natural response offered to God.

We too journey in faith, using our own stories of God’s love, care, provision, and presence to encourage and reassure ourselves. We also connect to and lean into the promises and covenants to continue walking in faith, especially on those hard days. As we recall our stories today, may we praise the Lord. And as we recall the covenants and promises may we raise a joyful song!

Prayer: Lord God, your love and care for your children began in the garden and it has continued right through to this day. Our scriptures are filled with examples and our lives are filled with accountings of your love and care, of your provision and presence. Thank you for being the God who so deeply loves us. All praise and honor to you, almighty God! Amen.


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Even There… Always

Reading: Psalm 139:1-12

Verse 5: “You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.”

Psalm 139 is a beautiful reminder of God’s presence with us in all of life. I find great comfort in verses 1-6. Here we are reminded that God searches us and knows us, that God knows our coming and going, that God knows our thoughts, and that God “hems me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.” Yes, this is all indeed wonderful. And it is a little scary or intimidating to be so intimately, personally, and thoroughly known by someone. This depth of knowing is the focus of verses 7-10.

Moving into this set of verses David recognizes God’s omnipotent nature. No matter where he goes, God is there. David touches on the reality of this with honesty as he asks, “Where can I flee from your presence?” We can relate, right? At times we appreciate a little solitude. And it is a high standard to uphold – always being in God’s presence. I’m sure you’ve been around someone and wondered when your time together would ever end. But here’s the thing with God: God is here for our absolute good and to bring joy and hope and light to our lives. And to be there when we need God the most, for “even there your hand will guide me.”

In the closing verses David acknowledges that at times darkness will surround him. Even though he feels “hidden” from God – whether it is because of sin or because of a loss that makes us feel separated from God – even there God is present. Our darkness is just that: ours. Even there God is light and love and grace. And even there God is with us, knows us, searches us, and walks with us. Always, God hems us in. Always, God’s hand is upon us. Thanks be to God!

Prayer: Lord God, on my best days, you are there. On my worst days, you are there. On those many days that fall in between, you are there. Open my heart to your constant presence. Humble me and make me willing to follow your lead and your guidance. I know you love me and have good plans for me. Shape me and form me to your will and ways, O God. Amen.


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When God Calls…

Reading: Genesis 24:58-67

Verse 58: “I will go.”

After hearing the servant’s account of God’s leading and guiding, Rebekah’s brothers ask her if she will go with the servant. Without hesitation she says, “I will go.” The evidence of God’s hand at work must’ve been strong. She was leaving almost everything and everyone behind to go with a man she’d just met to marry a man she’s never met to live in a place she’d never been. This was a really big “I will go.”

We make choices and decisions all the time. Some are big and important – to marry, to move, to switch jobs, to have kids… We too experience God’s guiding and leading. This often helps in our decision-making. When “doors” open or close we perceive God at work. When the Holy Spirit whispers or nudges or speaks, we sense God at work. In the big decisions we often seek God through prayer or by studying the Bible. Because of this we are open to God’s presence and direction.

We can struggle, though, to sense God at work or to listen to or feel the Spirit in the ordinary. A young woman went to fetch water – for cooking, for cleaning, for the animals? It was for some task that she needed to do. How often do we ignore or put off the prompting because we have a meeting to get to or because we are focused on our task? She paused what she was doing to encounter the stranger and to meet his needs. It was a simple act of welcome and hospitality and generosity. And look where God took it from there!

In those moments when God calls or when the Holy Spirit rises in our hearts or minds, may we be as willing to respond, stepping into a role in God’s kingdom building. May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, you are there in the small, everyday just as much as you are in the big and important. Help me to understand that I’m not as big and important as I tend to think. Help me to realize that all opportunities matter, that you are in all things. Amen.


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Even So

Reading: Psalm 13

Verse 3: “Look on me and answer, O Lord my God. Give light to my eyes.”

Psalm 13 begins with four sentences that all begin “How long…?” David is asking how long will this horrible situation last? How long will God take to bring relief, comfort, healing, resolution? Although we do not know if this is a personal prayer or a corporate prayer from David, we do know that we’ve prayed these “how long” prayers again and again, for ourselves and for others.

David continues in verse 3, writing, “Look on me and answer, O Lord my God. Give light to my eyes.” He is begging for, pleading for God to respond. He wants light to see the way through. We note that David is not praying for an answer already in mind. He is praying for God to light the way forward, trusting in God’s light and direction. The rest of verse 3 reveals the depth of the situation: “or I will sleep in death.” The end of the rope has been reached. The grip is failing. O God, answer!

Verses 5 and 6 are “even so” verses. The answer hasn’t come. He feels all alone. David cannot yet see the light. But even so he declares trust in God’s “unfailing love.” He rejoices in the salvation that he knows is secure. And David chooses to sing a song to the God who has been good again and again and again. As we wait upon the Lord may we do so with such trust and faith. From that place, may we praise our good, good God.

Prayer: Lord God, in moments when I cannot sense your presence, give me the strength to trust and the heart to praise you. When the dark feels too much, bring a sliver of light, prompting me to choose faith over fear. Amen.


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Provision

Reading: Genesis 22:6-14

Verse 14: “So Abraham called that place ‘The Lord will provide.'”

In our Genesis 22 reading God provides the ram as the sacrifice. Isaac is lifted off the altar and he is replaced by this ram. It dies in his place, much as Jesus died in our place to pay the price for our sins. The ram does so that the child can live. In an act of gratitude and worship, Abraham names the place “Jehovah Jireh” – the Lord will provide.

God continues to provide for our needs. Sometimes it is by giving us the words to speak, sometimes it is by guiding us to the correct action to take. And sometimes words fail and God is directing us to simply provide presence. God provides in many other ways. A door can be opened, another closed. A meal or help in some other form can show up unexpected and meet a need.

We too can be used by God as the means of provision. Many years ago, for example, a family in our church was struggling financially. A group got together and left $1,000 in a blank envelope in their mailbox. Our financial blessings are often a way that we can be part of God providing a blessing for others. It can also be something as simple as a card or phone call – hearing “it came exactly when I needed it most” assures us of God’s hand guiding and providing.

The keys to both receiving from God and being used by God to provide for others begins with an open ear, followed closely by a willing heart. May we all be receptive to God’s working in and through us as God loves and provides for our needs.

Prayer: Lord God, use me today to accomplish your will. Use my words or my hands and feet, use my presence, O God, as you seek to love and care for our world and for all of your children. And when your will turns to me, may I humbly receive all that you have for me. Amen.


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Provision

Reading: Genesis 22:6-14

Verse 14: “So Abraham called that place ‘The Lord will provide.'”

In our Genesis 22 reading God provides the ram as the sacrifice. Isaac is lifted off the altar and he is replaced by this ram. It dies in his place, much as Jesus died in our place to pay the price for our sins. The ram does so that the child can live. In an act of gratitude and worship, Abraham names the place “Jehovah Jireh” – the Lord will provide.

God continues to provide for our needs. Sometimes it is by giving us the words to speak, sometimes it is by guiding us to the correct action to take. And sometimes words fail and God is directing us to simply provide presence. God provides in many other ways. A door can be opened, another closed. A meal or help in some other form can show up unexpected and meet a need.

We too can be used by God as the means of provision. Many years ago, for example, a family in our church was struggling financially. A group got together and left $1,000 in a blank envelope in their mailbox. Our financial blessings are often a way that we can be part of God providing a blessing for others. It can also be something as simple as a card or phone call – hearing “it came exactly when I needed it most” assures us of God’s hand guiding and providing.

The keys to both receiving from God and being used by God to provide for others begins with an open ear, followed closely by a willing heart. May we all be receptive to God’s working in and through us as God loves and provides for our needs.

Prayer: Lord God, use me today to accomplish your will. Use my words or my hands and feet, use my presence, O God, as you seek to love and care for our world and for all of your children. And when your will turns to me, may I humbly receive all that you have for me. Amen.


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Proclaim! Worship!

Reading: Psalm 65:32-35

Verse 35: “You, God, are awesome in your sanctuary.”

Today we pick up the second part of this week’s Psalm 68 reading. The psalmist again encourages us to praise God and to proclaim God’s power and might. Whether corporate or individual, we can lift up the name of God and tell of God’s presence and activity in our lives.

In verse 35 we read, “You, God, are awesome in your sanctuary.” The word ‘sanctuary’ often brings to mind that space that we gather in on a Sunday morning. While that is one definition, look at how David defines it. It is where God “rides the ancient skies.” It is where one hears the thunder of God’s “mighty voice.” It is wherever and whenever God “gives power and strength to God’s people.” In essence, God’s sanctuary is everywhere because God is everywhere. So, yes, “kingdoms of the earth, sing praise to God!”

Wherever you find yourself today, whether in a sanctuary or as part of online worship, whether out in the woods or sitting on a beach, whether in a hospital room or at the office, know that God is there with you. And whether part of a group or all by yourself, proclaim God’s power and might. Worship the Lord your God!

Prayer: Lord God, in all times and in all places may we know your loving presence. Nudge us, whisper to us and remind us of the power and strength that you give us, your beloved children. And in response, lead us to praise you in word, song, and deed. Amen.


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Complete and Steadfast

Reading: John 14:15-17

Verse 16: “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever — the Spirit of truth.”

Photo credit: Kyle Johnson

Turning to our gospel lesson for this week, Jesus offers the disciples some needed reassurance and a promise. Coming out of a difficult to understand conversation about Jesus being the only way to the Father, he offers the words that we read today. He begins with this: “If you love me, you will obey what I command.” The most recent command is this: “Love one another. As I have loved you…” Living out their faith and into this relationship with God – both are first grounded in love. From a place of complete and steadfast love will come obedience. In human terms, we ground our wedding vows in this kind of love.

Jesus has been addressing the fact that soon he will die. The disciples will soon find themselves without the physical Christ. In today’s teaching Jesus offers these words: “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever — the Spirit of truth.” Jesus himself will initiate this new relationship or connection with God. Through Jesus’ request God will send the spiritual Christ to be with the disciples. The Holy Spirit will be with them forever. There is both an assurance and a promise here. Yet, as in all relationships, we have a role to play. We must receive the Spirit into our lives. We must respond to the offer, to the invitation, to the “knock” on our hearts.

Jesus states that those who are of the world “neither sees him or knows him.” For those who do not know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and for those of us who do and yet choose to live in sin, the Holy Spirit is disconnected. When there is separation in our relationship with God, then we too are of the world. Even then God reaches out, calling us back into right relationship. Through God’s complete and steadfast love our brokenness is again transformed and we can walk and live once more as a child of God. Our God’s love redeems and restores us over and over, allowing the Holy Spirit to “live with you” and to “be in you.” Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, your love and presence are offered without limit, without condition. You are the perfect giver of these good and gracious gifts. Lead us to receive them, to be filled with them, and to be people who pour them out into one another’s lives. Amen.


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To Know One…

Reading: John 14:7-14

Verse 9: “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”

Photo credit: Alexander Gray

In the second half of our John 14 passage Jesus makes some connections and a promise that comes from these connections. He begins by asserting that “if you really knew me, you would know the Father as well.” Here Jesus is affirming that he is the incarnation of God – God come in the flesh. As one of my devotionals put it this morning: “they are two separate but interconnected persons of one essence; to know one is to know the other” (Tanya Marlowe, Disciplines, page 45.) For the disciples this was a hard concept to wrap their heads around. In their Hebrew scriptures to physically see God brought death; to touch the ark of the covenant, the place God dwelt, brought death. To equate that God to this walking and talking Jesus was hard for them.

Jesus presses on, stating, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.” Jesus’ life, teachings, example – all came from the essence of God within him. He points to the miracles as further proof of this connection. Having experienced all this for almost three years, they must’ve been connecting some dots. And then Jesus hints at more, beginning to push the essence of God a step further. In verse 12 Jesus tells the disciples, “anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing… even greater things.” There is a hint of the Holy Spirit here – the third separate but interconnected persons of one essence. This will lead to Jesus in them, to Jesus in us. Their (and our) knowledge of God will grow deeper and stronger as this new connection takes up residence in them.

And lastly comes the promise: “I will do whatever you ask in my name.” We cannot stop after six words. We can ask for anything, yes. But if it is not done in and through the indwelling presence of God within us, then it is not of Jesus. Again, here Jesus points to connection – God in Jesus, in the Spirit, in us. May we ever be led by Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Prayer: Lord God, be in me today as the Father was in you: fully, completely, totally. In all I say and do and think, lead and guide me. With this connection may I reflect you to the world this day and every day. Amen.


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In the Power

Reading: Acts 2:14 – “Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice, and addressed the crowd.”

Today’s verse is the start of a long sermon by Peter that culminates with tomorrow’s passage. Pentecost had just happened, drawing a large crowd of Jews from all over the world. This miracle has prepared hearts and minds to hear what Peter has to say. The Holy Spirit fills Peter with power as he shares about Jesus and how he was revealed through the Hebrew scriptures and through the “miracles, wonders and signs” done during Jesus’ earthly ministry.

Peter is bold and fearless as he stands up, raises his voice, and begins to address the crowd. What a contrast to the Peter who ran from the courtyard in tears, filled with shame and regret. He couldn’t even claim his faith in Jesus to a few people standing around a warming fire and now he dives in full of confidence standing before thousands. What has changed in Peter and in the other disciples?

The primary change has come through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Soon after his resurrection, Jesus breathed the Holy Spirit upon them. The living, powerful presence of Jesus Christ now dwells in their hearts and minds. The Holy Spirit empowers them to act and speak on behalf of God, just as Jesus himself did. Standing together as one, Peter tells the good news of Jesus Christ. It could’ve been James or John. It could’ve been Matthias. If born in a different time, it could’ve been you or me. You see, all who call on Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are filled with the same Holy Spirit that empowered Peter this day. May we too live and act and speak with boldness and confidence, trusting in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer: Lord God, today, when I have the opportunity that Peter had, fill me with your Spirit power and use me to share the good news of Jesus Christ. Whether in word, action, or example, may my faith and trust in you be evident to all. Amen.