pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: trial


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Do We Pray… and Listen?

Reading: Matthew 26:36-44

Matthew 26:41 – “Stay alert and pray so that you won’t give in to temptation.”

Today we enter a familiar scene: Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane. The cross looms large. He is moving steadily towards his death. The arrest follows this passage. Jesus feels a great need to pray. He knows that what lies ahead will be a cruel and physically punishing death. The human part of Jesus and the divine part reveal themselves in his prayers.We too find ourselves in this place, wrestling with the promises we know to be true set against the fears within and the lies of the world.

Most of the disciples remain at the entrance to the Garden, but Jesus takes Peter, James, and John a bit deeper in..Jesus shares his inner struggles with these three: “I’m very sad. It’s as if I’m dying.” He then asks them to “keep alert with me.” Jesus is asking his friends to pray with him. Going a bit deeper into the Garden, the human side of Jesus prays that this task of dying be taken from him. Then, fully aware of God’s plan, the divine part prays, “Not what I want but what you want.” There is surrender to and worship of God in these words that are prayed three times.

Returning to Peter, James, and John he finds them asleep. Waking them he offers them encouragement, saying, “Stay alert and pray so that you won’t give in to temptation.” Jesus knows the trials coming for them and the rest of the disciples. He’s been modeling how to face these trials, but they’ve been sleeping. Soon they too will have to decide between God’s will and their own will. We face these same trials. Do we walk in faith and trust or do we allow fear, worry, doubt… to guide us? Do we pray and receive guidance and strength from the Spirit, or do we listen to another voice?

Prayer: Lord God, how often we hear more than one voice. The voice of your Spirit is always there but so is our own voice. The noise of the world clamors often too. In moments of trial and temptation, in times of struggle and hardship, whisper your promises and your love into our hearts. May that whisper garner all of our attention. May the voice that always rings true show us the way to surrender to your will and ways. Amen.


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I Am… or Maybe?

Reading: Mark 14:61-62, Matthew 26:63-64

Mark 14:61 – “Are you the Christ, the Son of the blessed one?”

Our two readings come from the same place in Jesus’ story. He has been arrested at night and stands trial before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. This group leads under the power of the Romans. While this arrangement limits their power, the religious leaders still have a great amount of influence over the Jewish people.

For the first part of his trial, Jesus remains silent. He will not respond to false accusations. When the high priest, Caiaphas, asks, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the blessed one?” Jesus answers. The question is worded differently in Matthew’s gospel, but the intent is the same. The hope is for Jesus to incriminate himself.

In Mark’s gospel Jesus responds, “I am.” It is a definitive answer. This aligns with the direct nature of Mark’s gospel and with his focus on encouraging the church to be thr church. Mark would like the church to respond to this type of question definitively. In word and action, Mark would like to see the church talk and act in ways that are easily identifiable as “Christian.”

In Matthew’s gospel the response is almost a non-response: “You said it.” Maybe. In both gospels Jesus adds that they’ll see the “Human One” sitting at God’s right hand and then coming on the clouds. In Matthew this feels like a “one day” statement: “One day you’ll know that I am the Messiah.”

As I read and ponder these two accounts, I wonder what kind of a follower I am. And I wonder what kind of a church we are. In my/our words and actions, do I/we state that I/we follow Christ as Lord and Savior? Or does our example say, “Maybe?”

Prayer: Lord God, encourage and empower me and my brothers and sisters in Christ to declare our faith in you in all ways. In the kindness, mercy, grace, love, care, compassion, generosity… that we live out, may the world know that you are Lord and Savior. Amen.


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In Faith, Stand Sure

Reading: James 1:2-6

James 1:2 – “My brothers and sisters, think of the various tests you encounter as occasions for joy.”

Photo credit: Diego Gennaro

James 1 picks up on the spirit and ideas we read about a couple days ago in Romans 5. In verse 2 James writes, “My brothers and sisters, think of the various tests you encounter as occasions for joy.” This statement catches us a bit off guard. Tests… joy? We may not normally associate these two words. Like Paul, though, James looks at the end game. The testing we encounter provides us with an opportunity to practice endurance. James encourages us to let this endurance “complete its work.” If we do so, we emerge with a faith that is “fully mature, complete, lacking nothing.” This is the goal of our journey of faith.

This enduring is not always easy. In the depth of the dark valley we can be tempted to abandon our faith. In the heat of the trial, we can think it’d be easier to profess someone or something other than Jesus or faith. Timothy’s response to these realities? Ask for wisdom from God. Seek guidance and direction for how to endure. James reminds us that it is God’s nature to give. So ask!

Our passage closes with another word of encouragement: “Ask in faith, without doubt.” In faith and trust, believe that God is present and will walk with us through the valley and trials. Don’t be tossed and turned by the things of this world but stand sure in the Lord. May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, as we’ve walked this walk of faith we have experienced the power found in your presence. We have stood firm and emerged from the testing stronger and more assured in our faith. Thank you for your constant presence and your faithful work in us. Amen.


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Conform to Christ

Reading: Romans 8:26-29

Romans 8:28 – “We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

Photo credit: Robert Linder

As our passage today begins, Paul speaks again of God’s presence in our lives. The Spirit – God’s constant, indwelling presence – helps us in our moments of weakness. In those times when our trial or hardship or suffering is so great that we cannot even form the words to pray, it is then that the Holy Spirit takes up our case. The Spirit “please” for us before God, lifting us up before God. We too can pray in this way. When we hear of the time of great suffering of a friend, we can lift their case before God.

Because God is three-in-one, the Spirit prays for us “consistent with God’s will.” In this way we and our need(s) are brought before God in the best possible way. There is no selfishness, no fear or worry or doubt, no greed or envy in the Holy Spirit’s prayers. This idea connects to verse 28, where we read, “We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose.” God is good and loving and kind and caring and compassionate and merciful and… God desires that our lives be filled with these things too. Yes, the world and this life will bring death and illness and sin and tragedy into our lives, but God works even these difficult and hard things towards good and into alignment with God’s plans for our lives.

The Spirit and God do all of this in order to “conform” us more and more into the image of Jesus. God conforms – and forms and reforms – us into the image of Christ so that we can be goodness, love, kindness, care, compassion, mercy… to one another. In this way we bring Christ to the world. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the example that Jesus set for us. He revealed what it means to be fully present to one another, to love without condition, to give selflessly to the other. That is not always easy for us. So thank you also for the Spirit, that constant presence that points us towards and forms us into Jesus’ witnesses. Lead us to be people of presence, people who pray, people who show up, people who give of ourselves. Amen.


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Pour It Back Out

Readings: Romans 5:1-5 and 12:18-21

Romans 5:3-4 – “Trouble produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope.”

Paul begins chapter 5 by reminding the Roman church (and us) that they (we) are made righteous through Christ’s faithfulness. We are made right because of and through Christ’s work on the cross. We cannot do anything to restore ourselves to righteousness before God. But Jesus can and does. That brings us peace with God. And because we are forgiven through grace, we can and should be gracious to others. Through our own radical acts of love, others can experience and then claim the hope that we have in Christ Jesus.

Paul then rejoices because we experience hardship, trials, suffering. What?! Paul is not celebrating that we experience these things. He is celebrating how God uses them in our lives. Trouble builds endurance which builds character which builds hope. As we endure faithfully, we model Jesus and through this process take on more of Christ’s character. As we are made more Christlike our hope in God deepens. In turn we receive more of God’s love, poured into our hearts.

Shifting to chapter 12, Paul focuses in on those times when evil is the cause of hardship… He encourages an attitude of peace even then. The apostle encourages us to allow God to be the one in the punishment business. Paul then asks us to do just the opposite: give your enemy, the one doing evil to you, give them what they need. Give them food or drink or burning coals. (This last one refers to actually giving them coals so that they can rekindle the fire, bringing them warmth.) By taking the love of God that is poured into our hearts and pouring it back out into our relationships with difficult others we will “defeat evil with good.” May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, we thank you for the gift of Jesus Christ – he who not only became the atoning sacrifice for us but also set before us the daily example of love. In the times when it is most difficult to muster up love, grace, mercy – in moments of hardship… – remind us of your great love for all of us. In gratitude and faithfulness lead us to pour these out, blessing others. Amen.


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Don’t Be Far

Reading: Psalm 22:1-2 and 7-11

Psalm 22:11 – “Please don’t be far from me, because trouble is near.”

Photo credit: Shane Rounce

This week we’ve explored the biblical witness to the reality of heaven (and hell.) As believers there are many times when we experience heaven on earth. We find joy in living with love and hope. We demonstrate our love of God by loving neighbor. We experience blessing through fellowship in the faith community and through God’s presence in Spirit. And there are also times when we feel like David feels in Psalm 22. In a moment of trial or suffering we feel separate from God, experiencing something more like hell on earth.

Verses 1 and 2 express the separation that we feel at times. Where are you God? Why have you left me alone? Why don’t you respond to my pleas and prayers? These are questions we’ve asked and will ask again. They are an honest admission of a very uncomfortable feeling.

In verses 7-8 David shares the trouble that is near. He is suffering and God feels absent. Others ridicule him and his faith in this God who is clearly not rescuing him from this hardship. Then there is a shift in verses 9-11. David remembers his long walk with God – “from birth.” God has always been his God. Oh yes, you’ve always been David’s God. And you are always our God. So David prays, “Please don’t be far from me, because trouble is near.” It is an honest plea to again experience heaven here on earth. In our moments of hardship, may this too be our prayer to God.

Prayer: Lord God, there will be moments when we feel apart from you. Doubt, fear, worry, anger – they can all create this open space. In these moments, O God, remind us too of our long walk with you, of the many, many times when we’ve experienced your presence, hope, love, comfort… Guide us to lean into you, closing the space in between. 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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Strengthened and Encouraged

Reading: 2nd Timothy 1-2

2nd Timothy 1:7 – “God didn’t give us a spirit that is timid but one that is powerful, loving, and self-controlled.”

2nd Timothy is a letter written to a young but gifted pastor, defining his role and character as a faithful minister of the good news of Jesus Christ. Paul begins by reminding Timothy of the origins of his faith. It was planted in him by his grandma Lois and his mother Eunice. He then reminds Timothy of the “gift” that he has been given by God. Paul implores Timothy to “revive” that gift. To help him do so, Paul writes, “God didn’t give us a spirit that is timid but one that is powerful, loving, and self-controlled.”

Timothy must be having a challenging time. Paul next encourages Timothy, telling him not to be ashamed. Paul invites him to “share the suffering,” trusting in God’s power, purpose, and grace. The apostle turn shares his experience – appointed a teacher, suffered, not ashamed, convinced that God is “powerful enough to protect” what God placed in Paul. He is telling Timothy that he is not alone in his trials. So, Paul says, hold onto the good teachings that he has received and protect it by trusting in the Holy Spirit.

Paul also encourages Timothy to draw strength from Christ’s grace and to pass on the teachings of Christ to other capable teachers. Paul implores him to be a “good soldier of Jesus Christ” and to accept suffering as part of the rules of the game of ministry. Paul then offers some guidance on dealing with opponents, likely the source of some of Timothy’s suffering: present yourself as “tried-and-true,” don’t argue with them, and correct them with gentleness. Closing this section, Paul reminds Timothy to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace alongside others who “confess the Lord with clean hearts.” In this fellowship Timothy will be strengthened and encouraged. As people with clean hearts may we too strengthen and encourage one another in the Lord.

Prayer: Lord God, in moments when we might feel timid or even ashamed of our faith, sweep in with the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, enabling us to speak boldly and powerfully, yet gently and kindly. Let love guide our words and actions. Use us to draw others to a saving faith in you. Amen.


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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.


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One Last Act of Love

Reading: Luke 23

Luke 23:34: “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they’re doing.”

The trial, the false accusations, the giving in, the death and resurrection – it all feels so fast. It feels like Luke moves quickly through these events, his “carefully ordered account” presenting little more than the facts. Yet, as we read carefully, certain lines and actions stand out.

Both Pilate and Herod find no basis for legal action against Jesus. Pilate offers to whip Jesus, trying to placate the religious leaders and their crowd. The mob mentality that drives shouts of “Crucify!” finally forces Pilate to give in to their will. On the way to “The Skull,” Jesus pauses and addresses the grieving women, telling them not to cry for him but to cry for the days of suffering soon to come.

As he is being crucified between two criminals, Jesus prays, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they’re doing.” Those there – the religious leaders and the soldiers – they mock Jesus. One criminal defends this innocent man. Jesus tells him, “I assure you that today you’ll be with me in paradise.” As Jesus dies, a centurion praises God, recognizing Jesus as “a righteous man.” The crowd goes home beating their chests. Luke notes, “Everyone who knew him… stood at a distance observing these things.”

Joseph of Arimathea acts, asking Pilate for Jesus’ body. He was a member of the Jewish council – one that “hadn’t agreed with the plan” that has just been accomplished. The women watch him hastily wrap and lay Jesus’ body in a new tomb. The women go home and prepare spices and oils to properly care for his body. They wait as the Sabbath passes. They wait to offer one last act of love.

Prayer: Lord God, through it all, Jesus does not change. Love, grace, forgiveness, commitment – they continue to flow out from Jesus. His steadfastness to you and to us does not waver a bit. Signs of his love for you and for us are sprinkled throughout this text. Thank you for the example Jesus set, right to the end. This too was one last act of love. Amen.