pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

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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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A New Relationship

Reading: Isaiah 60-66

Isaiah 65:14 – “My servants will sing with contented hearts, but you will cry out from heartache; with broken spirits you will wail.”

As we close our Isaiah today chapter 60 encourages Israel to arise, to welcome sons and daughters home as they return from exile. Isaiah proclaims that peace and righteousness will reign. He tells of a day when the sun and moon won’t shine – God will be their light.

Isaiah 61 is a joyful proclamation that reveals God’s heart for justice and righteousness. The anointed prophet brings good news, heals brokenness, frees from sin, and promises the Lord’s favor to the faithful. He tells of God helping Israel to rebuild, to be restored and renewed. There is a promise of being clothed in victory and in a robe of righteousness. As we continue into chapter 62 God promises not to rest until Israel’s light shines and her salvation “blazes like a torch.” God delights in this people, will care for them, will lead them to be called “Holy People,” redeemed by God.

The prophet steps back in chapter 63, reminding the people why all this rebuilding is necessary. Edom’s sin raised God’s anger and wrath, just as Israel’s sin had. Yet for Israel there was also God’s love, mercy, and redemption. Isaiah invites more, asking God to “tear open the heavens” to come to them. He admits, Israel is the clay, God the potter. Good words of surrender and trust.

Isaiah closes out the book in chapters 65 and 66 with the usual good/bad news. The choice and outcome are summed up well in today’s key verse. No one listened when he spoke… God will repay their sin in full… God’s fire and sword will slay many. God is creating a new heaven and earth where there will be no tears, where they will thrive. Their relationship will deepen. God will answer before they call, God will hear before they speak. If only our hearts were so in tune with the Lord our God. May it be so one day.

Prayer: Lord God, we rejoice in your presence with us. Your love and mercy, grace and compassion, faithfulness and forgiveness – these continue to flow to your people. You remain at work, rebuilding when we break down, restoring when we fall away. Your justice and righteousness call us to reflect all of this as we seek to bring your good news to all people. Lead and guide us, O Lord. Amen.


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Higher Than Our Ways

Reading: Isaiah 52:13-55:13

Isaiah 54:7 – “For a brief moment I abandoned you, but with great mercy I will bring you back.”

Photo credit: Kate Remmer

Today, as we conclude Second Isaiah, we begin with the fourth Servant Song. The servant grew up quietly. He was not one to behold, nor did he draw attention to himself. In time he was despised and avoided, his words piercing the soul. He suffered with and was familiar with the sick, the outcast, the lonely. He bore our sins and was pierced because of our rebellions. By these wounds we are healed. An unjust ruling led to his death but “after his deep anguish he will see the light.” On the third day he arose, returning to his “share with the great.

Chapter 54 speaks of Israel’s restoration. A nation that has become barren will “burst out” to the left and right. God will partner with Israel to rebuild the nation. In verse 7 we read, “For a brief moment I abandoned you, but with great mercy I will bring you back.” These days are like the days of Noah. The punishment is ended. The new restart begins. Israel will be founded on righteousness, oppression will not come near. The new generation will be “disciples of the Lord.”

The themes of joy and restoration continue in chapter 55. In my Bible it is titled “An Invitation to the Feast.” There is water for the thirsty and food for the hungry. The invitation is also to “listen, and you will live.” God will make an “everlasting covenant.” God also invites the wicked to abandon their ways. The God who is “generous with forgiveness” wants to have mercy on them. Yes, God’s ways are higher than our ways. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, what hope and promise, both for your children then and for your children now. You went to great lengths to take in flesh and to suffer and pay for our transgressions. That spirit continues as you invite all to come to the table of grace, to feast on your generous mercy. Your words lead and guide us, they teach and instruct us. They do not return empty. Thank you, Lord. Amen.


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The Thin Space

Reading: Luke 2:1-20

Verse 19: “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”

Photo credit: Kelly Sikkema

We begin this day where many of us will end the day – in Luke 2, verses 1-20. In his gospel to the Gentiles, Luke offers the best known telling of Jesus’ birth story. Luke’s gospel was aimed at those outside of the Jewish circles of faith. Perhaps that is why his telling resonates so well with so many. To recount how the “good news of great joy” came first to the shepherds – to those very near to the bottom of the socio-economic ladder – is to remind us all that the good news of Jesus Christ is indeed for all people.

The Upper Room Disciplines devotional for today reminded me of a very similar experience with what author Richard Morgan calls a “thin space.” This is the liminal space where heaven and earth touch and we enter the presence of the holy. We also were caroling in a care facility when a woman who had sat still and silently the whole time came to life and began singing Silent Night in German as we sang in English. The tune and words touched a deep place in her mind and soul. It was a sacred and holy moment to be a part of as we entered that thin space.

Towards the end of today’s passage we read, “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” After a long journey and first-time labor, after receiving this holy story from the shepherds, Mary soaked it all in. She entered that thin space and seeped in God’s presence. This is my hope and prayer for all who will be drawn to worship and to celebrate the birth of the Savior. As each enters into worship, may each find a sacred space to enter into. There, may they each be touched by God so that the dear Christ child may enter into their hearts this night.

Prayer: Lord God, open the hearts of all who will come today to sing carols and to hear the story. May the words and songs draw them into the thin space where heaven touches their hearts. Amen.


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The Thin Space

Reading: Luke 2:1-20

Verse 19: “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”

Photo credit: Kelly Sikkema

We begin this day where many of us will end the day – in Luke 2, verses 1-20. In his gospel to the Gentiles, Luke offers the best known telling of Jesus’ birth story. Luke’s gospel was aimed at those outside of the Jewish circles of faith. Perhaps that is why his telling resonates so well with so many. To recount how the “good news of great joy” came first to the shepherds – to those very near to the bottom of the socio-economic ladder – is to remind us all that the good news of Jesus Christ is indeed for all people.

The Upper Room Disciplines devotional for today reminded me of a very similar experience with what author Richard Morgan calls a “thin space.” This is the liminal space where heaven and earth touch and we enter the presence of the holy. We also were caroling in a care facility when a woman who had sat still and silently the whole time came to life and began singing Silent Night in German as we sang in English. The tune and words touched a deep place in her mind and soul. It was a sacred and holy moment to be a part of as we entered that thin space.

Towards the end of today’s passage we read, “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” After a long journey and first-time labor, after receiving this holy story from the shepherds, Mary soaked it all in. She entered that thin space and seeped in God’s presence. This is my hope and prayer for all who will be drawn to worship and to celebrate the birth of the Savior. As each enters into worship, may each find a sacred space to enter into. There, may they each be touched by God so that the dear Christ child may enter into their hearts this night.

Prayer: Lord God, open the hearts of all who will come today to sing carols and to hear the story. May the words and songs draw them into the thin space where heaven touches their hearts. Amen.


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The Thin Space

Reading: Luke 2:1-20

Verse 19: “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”

Photo credit: Kelly Sikkema

We begin this day where many of us will end the day – in Luke 2, verses 1-20. In his gospel to the Gentiles, Luke offers the best known telling of Jesus’ birth story. Luke’s gospel was aimed at those outside of the Jewish circles of faith. Perhaps that is why his telling resonates so well with so many. To recount how the “good news of great joy” came first to the shepherds – to those very near to the bottom of the socio-economic ladder – is to remind us all that the good news of Jesus Christ is indeed for all people.

The Upper Room Disciplines devotional for today reminded me of a very similar experience with what author Richard Morgan calls a “thin space.” This is the liminal space where heaven and earth touch and we enter the presence of the holy. We also were caroling in a care facility when a woman who had sat still and silently the whole time came to life and began singing Silent Night in German as we sang in English. The tune and words touched a deep place in her mind and soul. It was a sacred and holy moment to be a part of as we entered that thin space.

Towards the end of today’s passage we read, “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” After a long journey and first-time labor, after receiving this holy story from the shepherds, Mary soaked it all in. She entered that thin space and seeped in God’s presence. This is my hope and prayer for all who will be drawn to worship and to celebrate the birth of the Savior. As each enters into worship, may each find a sacred space to enter into. There, may they each be touched by God so that the dear Christ child may enter into their hearts this night.

Prayer: Lord God, open the hearts of all who will come today to sing carols and to hear the story. May the words and songs draw them into the thin space where heaven touches their hearts. Amen.


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Serve the Lord

Reading: Joshua 24:1-3a and 14-15

Verse 14a: “Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness.”

Photo credit: Einar Storsul

Having crossed the Jordan and entered into the Promised Land, Joshua gathers the leaders and the people together. They present themselves before God. It is time to decide how to move forward. As Joshua begins to speak he reminds them of their roots: of how God took Abraham and brought him to Canaan and of how God made them into a great nation. It is good to remember our roots, our foundations. Whether through a day like All-Saints’ Day or through a family gathering, whether through Sunday worship or a coffee house conversation, it is important to remember who and whose we are. That is what Joshua is doing with the Israelites. This conversation continues in verses 4-13.

Joshua reminds Israel of who and whose they have been so that he can call them to who and whose they should be moving forward. Telling stories and remembering the past is often how we decide our next steps as we consider our lives and our faith journey. It is at this point that Joshua issues this challenge: “Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness.” Revere and respect the Lord. Be faithful to God alone. As he continues, Joshua challenges them to “throw away” the gods that they’ve added along the way. The call to ‘throw away’ these false gods underscores how useless they are. At the core of this challenge, in essence, is a call back to one God and to loving God with all of one’s heart, soul, mind, and strength. “One” and “all” are the key conditions here.

This challenge, this call – it is as relevant today as it was the day Joshua spoke it. It is easy to pick up false gods as we journey through life. Early on we’re taught that success, competition, beauty… are things to seek. Soon enough we’re taught that wealth, status, power… are things to seek. Pride, ego, lust, jealousy… come along with these things we chase. These false gods present a challenge to having one God and they become barriers to loving God with all that we are. Against these gods we must take a stand. In the last verse of today’s passage Joshua declares, “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, oh how many gods the world lifts up over you! The world values so much that runs counter to or becomes a barrier to fully loving you with all that we are. Turn my heart, my mind, my will, and my desires to you alone, O God. There I will have all that I need. Amen.


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What Is Required?

Reading: 1st Thessalonians 4:13-18

Verse 17b: “And so we will be with the Lord forever.”

Today’s words from Paul connect really well with the themes and ideas around All-Saints’ Day. In Revelation 7 the vision of heaven and all its glory brought hope to the believers suffering in John’s time. These words offer hope to all believers. The Thessalonians aren’t quite there yet. The vision detailed in Revelation probably hasn’t reached them. They are concerned with the souls of those who have died (“fallen asleep”) before Jesus returned. The common belief was that Jesus was coming back any day, soon. They fear that these souls might miss out or forever be trapped in limbo.

Paul begins to address their fears and concerns by assuring them that because Jesus died and rose again that one day all who believe in him will one day rise with him. Paul further assures them using Jesus’ own teachings. He reminds them that Jesus taught that when he returns “the dead in Christ will rise first.” Those who have fallen asleep will indeed join Jesus in glory. Paul then turns to those who are alive, reminding them that Jesus taught that those who are still alive “will be caught up together with them.” All who call on Jesus as Lord and Savior “will be with the Lord forever.” What words of hope and encouragement Paul shared with the Thessalonians and with us!

The underlying question that bubbles up here for me is this: What is required of me so that I am one day a part of this heavenly gathering? I first turn to Micah 6:8. These words are my daily prayer of commitment to God. Each day I strive to act justly, to love mercy and kindness, and to walk humbly with the Lord. These words and actions focus and frame my day. What words and practices guide you to living in a way that brings honor and glory to God?

Prayer: Lord, justice, mercy, kindness, and humility – they are a good start but I know that this is not all that is required of me. By the power of your Holy Spirit fill me with your love and compassion, with your grace and forgiveness. Show me the way to daily serve you and neighbor. Amen.


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Love God AND Neighbor

Reading: Matthew 22:34-40

Verses 37 and 39: “Love the Lord your God… love your neighbor.”

Photo credit: Greg Rakozy

As we turn to our gospel text for this week once again the religious leaders are testing Jesus. They view Jesus as an adversary and try again and again to discredit him, to bait him, to trap him… Today in the text it is framed in a question about the Law: “Which is the greatest commandment?”

Jesus answers as even the most nominal Jew would answer, quoting from the Law of Moses. Reciting from Deuteronomy and then from Leviticus, Jesus basically says, “Love the Lord your God… love your neighbor.” Here Jesus is combining these two commands, in essence making them one command. Let us note “how” Jesus says to follow these commands. Jesus reminds us that we are to love God “with all your heart… soul… mind” – love God with all that we are, with our whole selves. Then Jesus says we are to love our neighbors “as yourself.” Love as you would hope to be loved. Connecting the two, love your neighbor as God loves you: with all of God’s heart, soul, and mind. That is how we are to love our neighbors, which, of course, to God and to Jesus means all people.

In today’s Disciplines devotional, author Sophia Agtarap sums up a recent sentiment found on shirts, bumper stickers… this way: “Love your neighbor who doesn’t look like you, think like you, love like you, speak like you, pray like you, vote like you.” This is a pretty inclusive list of folks that we can surely want to exclude from our “neighbor” definition. Yet if we are to really live God with all of our heart, soul, and mind, then we must truly love such as these. May it be so today and every day for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, do what you need to do in my heart to enable me to really live out these commands. Thank you. Amen.


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The Love of God

Reading: Philippians 2:1-13

Verse 3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

Paul opens this section on imitating Christ’s Humility by reminding those in the church of the encouragement, fellowship, tenderness, and compassion that they receive from Christ. These gifts draw the church together. These gifts power unity and connection. Paul invites the followers of Christ to “be one in spirit and purpose.” Is Paul inviting us to be one with Christ or one with each other? The answer is “both!”

To that end Paul gives this directive in verse 3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Paul is really encouraging us to be like Jesus. Now, for Jesus, this was a very intentional choice. Jesus could calm the sea and restore someone to life. He could heal diseases, brokenness, and slavery to sin. He could chat with Moses and Elijah and he could rain down power from above. If anyone had the ability to pursue selfish ambition or had the accolades to be conceited, it was Jesus. But instead Jesus chose the role of humble servant. He chose to put God above all else and to place others needs above his own. We are called to this one purpose and spirit.

What made it possible for Jesus to walk daily in full obedience to God? What empowered Jesus to live out the role of humble servant? It was love. The love of God for all of creation flowed throughout Jesus’ whole being. This love found worth in all he met. This love elevated the other above self. It focused his life on living out God’s will and purpose. May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, fill me with your love. May that love first lead me to give my heart, soul, mind, and strength to you. From there, Lord, may that love lead me to pour self out for others, covering them in your love. Guide me in your ways, O God. Use me for your purposes. Amen.