pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: servant


by Leave a comment

A Regular Practice

Reading: Isaiah 56:1, 3-5, 7-8

Isaiah 56:1 – “Act justly and do what is righteous because my salvation is coming soon.”

The opening of Isaiah 56 is about keeping the Sabbath. The idea of Sabbath originates in the creation story. After creating the heavens, the earth, and everything in and on them, God rested. When God began to formalize who and what God’s people would be, the practice of Sabbath was included in the Ten Commandments. During the time in exile and the period that followed, the keeping of the Sabbath was especially important. It set the Jews apart from the rest of the world. To be Sabbath-keepers remains counter-cultural.

In today’s reading Isaiah is reminding Israel that Sabbath is not just for the Jews. The idea of including immigrants and servants has been a part of Sabbath ever since Moses received what we identify as Exodus 20:8-11. Animals and the earth itself are part of Sabbath rest. Isaiah includes the eunuchs and other outcasts in his words that declare that God’s family and home are places of welcome and inclusion for all people who honor the covenant, who live according to God’s will and ways.

As I reflect on these words today I am struck by how wide open God’s heart is for all who seek to walk as a child of God. I’m also becoming aware that Sabbath is aimed at creating a just world. Rest is part of God’s design for all things – people and all of creation. This concept of rest and shalom, of blessing and renewal also reveals the wideness of God’s love for all people and for all of creation. It is in these times of not doing that we can foster our relationships with God and with one another. This investment of time builds connection and it builds community. May Sabbath be a regular practice for you and for me as we seek to build God’s kingdom here and now.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the gift of Sabbath. This time set apart has the power to deepen our love for you and our love for each other. Open us to the wideness of your heart and your love as we practice this discipline. Lead and guide us in this regular practice, O God, so that holiness and justice, and peace and righteousness abound in our lives and in our world. Amen.


by Leave a comment

Struggles and Promises

Reading: Revelation 1-2

Revelation 1:8 – “I am the Alpha and Omega… the one who is and was and is coming, the Almighty.”

Photo credit: Noah Silliman

Today we begin Revelation, a vision given to Christ’s servant John. It is to the “seven churches” and is from Jesus Christ, the “firstborn from among the dead.” John writes that when Jesus comes in the clouds, all will see him and the nations will mourn. The Lord God then declares, “I am the Alpha and Omega… the one who is and was and is coming, the Almighty.”

John shared that he also suffers hardship, exiled on Patmos, an island where political opponents were sent. In a “Spirit-led trance,” John receives these words for the seven churches. He receives these words from Jesus Christ, whose appearance is “like the sun shining with all its power.” Jesus directs John to write down these words and to send them to the seven churches.

In today’s reading Jesus addresses the churches in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira. There is good to be found: good works, endurance in suffering, faith in hardship, service to others. Some have rooted out false teachers but others have fallen to their lies, following them into sin. Ephesus has forgotten her “first love” – Jesus. To the faithful, promises are made. The faithful and those who change hearts and lives will “eat from the tree of life,” will receive the “crown of life… the hidden manna… the white stone… authority over the nations… the morning star.”

These struggles remain in our churches and in our lives. The promises remain for those who are faithful. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, today we are first reminded of your eternal power and mighty. All glory and honor are yours! We are also reminded that faith is not easy, that trials will come, and that temptations are aplenty. Lead and guide us, O God, to remain faithful to you alone. Thank you. Amen.


by Leave a comment

The Good Fight

Reading: 1st Timothy 4-6

1st Timothy 6:12 – “Compete in the good fight of faith. Grab hold of eternal life – you are called to it, and you made a good confession of it.”

In chapters 4-6 Paul addresses spiritual leadership, caring for the family of God, and holy living. These three are very much interconnected and one supports the other. For example, holy living is essential for good leadership and it drives how we care for one another. Likewise, good leadership empowers holy living and caring well for each other.

Chapter 4 begins with the recognition that some will turn away from the faith. They will be deceived. Paul encourages young Timothy to be a “good servant of Jesus Christ.” He implores him to “train in holy living.” Paul invites Timothy to “set an example” for the believers through his own speech, behavior, love, faithfulness, and sexual purity. He also asks Timothy to keep working on his own faith growth and development. All of this gives Timothy solid ground to stand upon as he leads the family of God.

Paul turns to caring for the family next. He encourages Timothy to show respect to the older men and women and to treat the younger ones as brothers and sisters. Paul directs Timothy to care for the older widows who are truly in need, who have been faithful, and who are alone. If a widow has family, they are to care for her. Timothy is instructed to publicly deal with sinners, without bias or favoritism. Paul warns Timothy about false teachers who are creating jealousy and conflict as they try to profit from the believers. Paul declares that this love of money is the root of all kinds of evils. Instead, Paul encourages these men to “do good… to be generous… to share with others.” This will store up a foundation for the future, allowing them to “take hold of what truly is life.”

Paul then returns to holy living. He encourages Timothy to pursue righteousness, faithfulness, love… Paul implores young Timothy, “Compete in the good fight of faith. Grab hold of eternal life – you are called to it, and you made a good confession of it.” Paul tells him to do this “without fault or failure” until the Lord appears. May it be so for you and me too!

Prayer: Lord God, may we truly hear and put into practice these guidelines for holy living. Lead us daily to pursue faith, righteousness, holiness, and a servant’s heart. In turn, guide us to use these to lead well when given opportunity and to care well for our brothers and sisters in Christ always. Empower us to fight the good fight of faith today and every day. Amen.


by Leave a comment

One in Spirit

Reading: 1st Corinthians 4-6

1st Corinthians 6:19 – “Don’t you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you?”

Photo credit: Rainier Ridao

Paul begins by defining his role as a “servant of Christ” and as a “manager of God’s secrets.” Being faithful is the given expectation. The time to evaluate this will come when Jesus returns. Then people’s motivations will be revealed. In the present, though, the apostles are physically hard-pressed and they are dishonored, insulted, harassed, and attacked. In return, they work hard, bless, and encourage. Paul invites the believers to follow his example and to listen to Timothy’s teaching. He warns the arrogant: “God’s kingdom isn’t about words but about power.” Today we might say, “Talk is cheap.”

In chapters 5 and 6 Paul addresses many immoral behaviors within the church. A man is sleeping with his mother-in-law. Paul instructs the church to “hand him over to Satan” so that this weakness is destroyed. Paul warns about allowing evil to exist in the church. It is like yeast that spreads through the whole body. Paul adds greed, idolatry, abuse, drunkenness, and theft to the list of immoral behaviors. He reminds the church that their bodies are “part of Christ” and are “temples of the Holy Spirit.” Paul declares that they have been “bought and paid for.” Therefore they should “honor God with your body.”

Paul also touches on the lawsuits amongst the believers. The fact that this is happening means “you’ve already lost your case.” He isn’t talking about their court cases here. Doing wrong to and cheating a fellow believer has no place in the family of God. Instead, may we be “joined to the Lord,” becoming “one in Spirit” with Christ.

Prayer: Lord God, guide and lead us to be people of moral and upright lives. Empower us to be temples of your Spirit. Enable and encourage us to hold one another accountable to you. Instead of big sticks, grant us a spirit of gentleness and love when we deal with one another. And when we stray or wander, may we receive correction with humility and grace. Amen.


by Leave a comment

Steadfast

Reading: Acts 24-26

Acts 26:6 – “Today I am standing trial because of the hope in the promise God gave our ancestors.”

In today’s readings we cover Paul’s trials before Felix, Festus, and Agrippa. In the trial before Felix the Jewish leaders accuse Paul of being “a ringleader of the Nazarene faction.” Paul declares that he is indeed a follower of “the Way.” He professes faith in the Law and in the Prophets. This is his common ground with the Jews. Two years pass and Festus becomes the governor.

On a tour Festus goes to Jerusalem. The Jewish leaders again press their charges against Paul. A new trial is convened in Caesarea. Charges are brought but nothing can be proved. Paul claims his right to be tried in “Caesar’s court” and appeals to Caesar. Festus declares, “To Caesar you will go.”

Soon King Agrippa arrives to welcome Festus to his new appointment. He discusses Paul’s case with the king, who wants to hear from Paul. Festus summarizes the Jews appeal to him and says that he has found nothing deserving of death. Paul begins his defense by recalling his way of life as a Pharisee and his opposition to the Way. He tells of his conversion and his mission to be Jesus’ witness and servant. He tells Agrippa, “Today I am standing trial because of the hope in the promise God gave our ancestors.” Paul is witnessing even as he defends himself. He still wants to draw all he meets into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. His steadfast faith is undeniable. Both Festus and Agrippa feel Paul is innocent. But he did appeal to Caesar. God’s plan continues to move forward.

Prayer: Lord God, Paul’s message, his testimony, his faith – they do not change or waiver. He is steadfast to you alone. Lord, empower us to have such a faith. No matter the situation, no matter the circumstances, Lord, walk with us in each moment, guiding us to always boldly proclaim our faith in you alone. Amen.


by Leave a comment

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.


by Leave a comment

Gracious and Generous

Reading: Luke 15-16

Luke 15:19 – “I no longer deserve to be called your son. Take me on as one of your hired hands.”

We begin with three parables about “lost” things. The parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin follow the same pattern: a thing is lost, a careful search is made, the thing is found, and a celebration follows. A similar celebration happens in heaven when a sinner changes heart and life.

The third parable centers on a lost son. The truly lost one is not the one in the early parts of the parable. The younger son is initially lost but realizes it and “comes to his senses.” He decided on these words: “I no longer deserve to be called your son. Take me on as one of your hired hands.” People can feel this way with God. We can feel this way. Yet in the father’s persona we see a God who runs to us with unconditional love. It doesn’t matter what we’ve done (or left undone) – God loves us and will offer grace always. We’re always welcomed back into the family of God. Sometimes we are called upon to help others understand this too.

The older son is truly lost. He sees himself as a servant and not as a son. His is a joyless yet dutiful existence. That is why anger rises so quickly. Even though the father reminds him of his inherited place in the family, he cannot move past his anger. The story leaves us hanging. What will the oldest son do? Will he too “come to his senses” or will he remain furious?

Chapter 16 holds two parables that deal with wealth. In the first story a manager cleverly uses money to benefit others in the present and to insure his own future. We are called to do the same. Wealth is just a tool to employ in the building of the kingdom. The second story reinforces this point. The rich man did the opposite, hoarding his wealth, ignoring the man in need right under his nose. His future does not end well. He did not listen to the Law and the prophets. We have these as well as the “one who rises from the dead.” May we hear Jesus’ call to be both gracious and generous, doing all we can to redeem the lost.

Prayer: Lord God, when we’re “lost” ourselves, help us to “come to our senses” again and again. And help us to walk alongside those who feel undeserving of your grace and forgiveness, enabling them to see their place in the family. And, Lord, when we struggle, thinking another undeserving of your or our grace, remind us of your great love that redeemed a sinner like us. May we gratefully receive and generously give of your love, grace, and forgiveness. Amen.


by Leave a comment

Great Love and Compassion

Reading: Luke 7-8:39

Luke 7:50 – “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.”

Luke 7 begins with a story about a man with great faith. The centurion first asks Jesus to come heal his valued servant. He then realizes that he is unworthy to have Jesus come to him. So he sends words, recognizing Jesus’ authority to simply speak a word to heal the servant. It is so.

Jesus next encounters a funeral procession. A widow’s only son has died. With great compassion Jesus resuscitates the son, providing for the widow.

From prison John the Baptist sends some disciples to ask Jesus, “Are you the one?” Jesus heals many people right then and tells the disciples to tell John what they saw. This is a physical demonstration that fulfills Isaiah 35 and 61. It is Jesus’ “yes” to John’s question. He then laments this current generation’s lack of faith.

Jesus is then invited to dinner at a Pharisee’s home. While there, a sinful woman comes and washes Jesus’ feet with her tears and hair, kissing them and then anointing them with oil. In his thoughts, the Pharisee is condescending of both Jesus and the woman. This leader skipped all the normal hospitality customs. Jesus says to the woman, “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.” Her revelation of great love leads to her salvation.

After naming some of the women who support Jesus’ ministry, he tells the parable of the soils. It is about our receptivity to Jesus’ words and example. These women are the good soil. Jesus then encourages us to let our light shine. It is to shine on all soil/soul types.

Jesus then reveals his power over wind and sea before encountering “Legion” – a man long possessed by many demons. The demons recognize Jesus and negotiate release into the pigs. The man is totally healed. The townfolk are awed but are also afraid of Jesus’ unexplainable power. They ask him to leave. The man is told to stay behind, to witness to Jesus’ power. He goes home to “tell the story.”

Prayer: Lord God, you continue to have great love and compassion for us. You respond when we call out in faith. And you sometimes come even when we don’t call out. You know what we need and this drives your responses. Thank you. Amen.


by Leave a comment

Service and Sacrifice

Reading: Mark 9-10

Mark 10:24 – “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!”

Photo credit: Shane Rounce

The transfiguration of Jesus begins today’s readings. On a mountain top with Peter, James, and John, Jesus becomes “amazingly bright.” Elijah and Moses come and talk with Jesus. God speaks, saying, “This is my Son, whom I dearly love. Listen to him!” These words echo God’s words at Jesus’ baptism. Coming down the mountain Jesus finds a hubbub. The disciples were unable to cast out a demon. Jesus laments the lack of faith. The father begs Jesus for his son’s healing and admits his own lack of faith. Jesus casts out the demon. How do you think this affected the father’s lack of faith?

Jesus tells the disciples once again of his coming death. They, in turn, argue about who is the greatest among them. Jesus gathers the disciples and reminds them that the first will be the least, the servant. He explains that there is a cost to being a follower. It might cost a hand or foot or eye if that leads one into sin. Jesus is telling them to do anything to avoid sin and disobedience to God.

A rich man comes and asks about obtaining eternal life. He has kept the commands faithfully. After Jesus “looked at him carefully and loved him,” he is instructed to sell all that he has. The man goes away sad. Jesus goes on to say, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!” Much can get between us and Jesus. It’s not just our wealth or our possessions. When Jesus looks carefully at our hearts, what does he see that vies for the throne of our hearts?

Once again Jesus tells of his death. This time he is very clear. James and John come with a request: to sit at Jesus’ left and right in heaven. Power is their struggle. Jesus, with great patience, again tells the 12 that the greatest will be the servant and the first will be slave to all. Jesus again reminds them – and us – that he came not to be served but to serve and to give his life “to liberate many people.” May we too choose service and sacrifice.

Prayer: Lord God, humble servant, slave to all, keeping you #1 in our hearts – no, discipleship is not easy. We must first die to self – the greatest barrier to walking humbly and obediently. Guide us in this necessary and daily act of surrender. Grant us the faith and trust, the strength and courage to do so each day. Amen.


by Leave a comment

True Life

Reading: Mark 7-8

Mark 8:34 – “All who want to come after me must say no to themselves, take up their cross, and follow me.”

Chapter 7 begins with tension between God’s Law and man-made rules. The religious question the disciples eating with “unclean hands.” Jesus’ response begins with a quote from Isaiah. The religious honor God with their lips but their hearts are far away. A man-made rule that trumps God’s Law is given as an example. How often do we do this, both formally and informally, not to mention in the secret places of our hearts?

Jesus teaches that it is what comes out of the heart that makes a person unclean. When we allow evils into our hearts – sexual sins, greed, deceit, envy, arrogance – that is what contaminates us in God’s sight.

Jesus then heals two people from outside the Jewish circle. In the first healing he tells the immigrant woman that the children (the Jews) must be fed first. The “dogs” must wait. She replies that even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from the table. Her “good answer” leads to healing for her daughter. Jesus then heals a blind and mute man. People are overcome with wonder.

Chapter 8 begins with another mass feeding. Led by compassion, Jesus feeds the 4,000+ that have been with him for three days. After feeding this Gentile crowd (so much for feeding the children first), Jesus warns the disciples about the “yeast” of the Pharisees and of Herod. They don’t get it. Jesus laments their lack of understanding.

After healing a blind man, Jesus asks the disciples who people think he is. Most think Jesus is a prophet. He asks them what they think. Peter says, “You are the Christ.” Jesus then foretells his suffering, death, and resurrection. Peter begins to “correct” Jesus. This is not the right ending to this story. Sternly Jesus says, “Get behind me, Satan.” Calling the crowd, Jesus declares, “All who want to come after me must say no to themselves, take up their cross, and follow me.” It’s about humble servant leadership, not physical or political might. It’s about finding true life in Christ. It’s not about gaining the whole world.

Prayer: Lord God, what a beautiful life you call us to! Laying aside self, being servant to all, bringing love and healing to our world, we find the life that brings you glory. Help and guide us daily to say no to self, to pick up our cross, and to follow you faithfully. Amen.