pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

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Life in the Spirit

Readings: Psalm 119:112 and Romans 8:6-11

Romans 8:11 – “The one who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your human bodies also, through his Spirit that lives in you.”

Paul offers us a choice as we continue in Romans 8. We can choose to be selfish. This is our natural inclination. If this is the choice we make, we cannot please God. In fact, when selfish we become hostile to God, refusing to submit to the Law, to God’s will and way. Being selfish, we are consumed with ourselves and with what benefits us. Choosing this life leads to death. It is the choice many people make. It is the choice we make at times, even if we profess Jesus as Lord.

At the other end of the spectrum, we can choose life in the Spirit. This is a life of peace lived with a sense of belonging. We live as children of God who experience God’s righteousness through the Holy Spirit that lives in us. This leads us to seek to live within God’s will and way. This was the choice the psalmist made. The psalmist declares, “I have decided to keep your statutes forever, every last one.” In its simplest form this boils down to loving God with all that we are and loving neighbor as Christ loves us.

When we seek to live this way – led and guided by the Spirit living in us – then we experience life lived in right relationship with God and with all of creation. We come to know the truth of Paul’s words: “The one who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your human bodies also, through his Spirit that lives in you.” All of life is blessed, even the hard days, because Christ in Spirit is with us. Always. Thanks be to God!

Prayer: Lord God, in the quiet early morning, it’s just you and me as I sit here at my desk. It feels easy to choose to you. Yet, this is not the normal reality. We live mostly in the world, where the choice to be selfish is elevated as the right choice. But you call us to be in the world, not of the world. Set us apart in spirit and in our daily living. May your love guide us and may your grace save us when we fall short. Amen.


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Joy That Attracts

Readings: Psalm 119:111 and Matthew 13:1-2

Psalm 119:111 – “Your laws are my possession forever because they are my heart’s joy.”

In the opening verses of Matthew 13, Jesus heads out to the lake. We see that a large crowd came and gathered around Jesus. The lake can be a fun place to go, especially on a warm day. But the crowd was there because Jesus was there. He was the attraction.

Today social media alerts us to where our favorite food truck is that day or to who is having a flash sale that we do not want to miss. If we want to grab a coffee with a friend, a quick text or phone call can set that up. As we remember that almost all communication in Jesus’ day was by word of mouth, we have to wonder what drew a large crowd to the lake. For that matter, how did word of Jesus spread at all?

Verse 111 of Psalm 119 reads, “Your laws are my possession forever because they are my heart’s joy.” The psalmist loved God’s laws because they brought joy to his or her life. They want to hold onto this joy forever. God’s instruction, living by God’s will and way, this brings joy to our hearts as well. Do others see it or feel it in your life? Does our daily walk with Jesus and the Spirit lead us to overflow with joy (and love, hope, peace…)? I think those touched by Jesus spiritually and/or physically overflowed with joy because of how their encounter with Christ changed their lives. These stories are what drew the crowds to Jesus. May it be so for you and for me as well.

Prayer: Lord God, fill us with your joy today. Fill us so full that others sense it, see it, want it. Prepare us to respond when we are asked about our joy. Give us the words of witness that draw others in, that attract others to Jesus Christ. Amen.


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Faith in Difficulty

Readings: Psalm 119:109 and Genesis 25:19-26

Genesis 25:23a – “Two nations are in your womb; two different people will emerge from your body.”

In today’s verse from Psalm 119, the psalmist expresses a commitment to God’s will and way, even when life is unsure and feels unsafe. This is not always an easy thing to do. Too often we can try to take matters into our own hands. We then only turn to God when we have failed and/or made matters worse.

Turning to Genesis 25, we are reminded that Isaac and Rebekah were married. We recall that this marriage had God’s fingerprints all over it. The relationship felt blessed. But Rebekah is barren. Soon, Isaac begins praying to God about this concerning situation. This is a departure from his parents’approach. Sarah and Abraham took matters into their own hands, producing Ishmael. Because Isaac remains faithful to God during this difficult time, God is moved by his prayers and Rebekah becomes pregnant – 20 years into Isaac’s praying.

Rebekah’s pregnancy is not easy. There is violence within her womb. This is a foretaste of the unrest and conflict that will overshadow Jacob and Esau’s relationship. They are not the first brothers like this, nor will they be the last. Before them were Cain and Abel, then Isaac and Ishmael. Jacob emerged from the womb gripping Esau’s heel. He is already at odds with the customs of firstborn privilege. Tomorrow we will see how this plays out further, creating two nations.

Prayer: Lord God, at times things in this life can be challenging. Life can be hard and we can want a way out. In these moments, Lord, turn us towards you and not towards self. Remind us of the psalmist’s trust and of Isaac’s faithfulness. With these examples, may we seek your guidance, your plans, and your power and presence. Amen.


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Life in Christ

Reading: Romans 6:12-19

Romans 6:14 – “Sin will have no power over you, because you aren’t under Law but under grace.”

As we turn to Romans 6 today and tomorrow, we read Paul’s arguments about sin and the new life that we find in Christ Jesus. Today’s section begins with this advice: “Don’t let sin rule your body so that you do what it wants.” Here Paul is acknowledging a reality. Sin is always there, always trying to draw us in. Because of this, we must battle every day so that we are not used “as weapons to do wrong.” Instead, Paul encourages us to offer ourselves to God, as people “who have been brought back to life from death” so that we can be used “as weapons to do good” in the world.

Although sin and temptation are powerful, Paul reminds us, “Sin will have no power over you, because you aren’t under Law but under grace.” By the grace made available through Jesus Christ, we are no longer held captive to sin and the guilt and shame that keeps us entangled in our sin and its consequences. As Paul explores our freedom from sin found in Jesus Christ, he lays out the choice we make on a very regular basis. Do we offer ourselves as “slaves of sin,” setting our course towards death? Or do we offer ourselves as “slaves of righteousness,” which leads to holy living? Paul understands that for each of us who seek to follow Jesus, as it was for him, this is a choice made again and again, over and over, many times each day. Each time may we choose life in Christ.

Prayer: Lord God, we face an almost steady stream of temptation. We’re encouraged to just do what feels good, to just sling that verbal barb, to just get more and more for self. We soon enough learn that, as Paul wrote, one sin often leads to another and another. Soon we are enslaved. Lord, we want to choose your will and way. We want to live as children of righteousness. We want to do and be good in this world. O Lord, help us. Only through and with the power of the Holy Spirit inside of us do we stand a chance. Lead and guide us, O God. Strengthen and encourage us. Thank you. Amen.


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For the Common Good

Reading: 1st Corinthians 12:7-13

1st Corinthians 12:7 – “A demonstration of the Spirit is given to each person for the common good.”

Photo credit: Clay Banks

Continuing in 1st Corinthians 12 today we move to the gifts of the Spirit that we receive as followers of Jesus Christ. First, Paul is clear about who and why we receive gifts: “A demonstration of the Spirit is given to each person for the common good.” Each person is given a gift (or gifts.) Although some people will try and tell you otherwise, we all have a gift or gifts from the Holy Spirit. Along those lines, we should note that the list in today’s reading is a partial list. Paul is also clear about the purpose of our gifting: for the common good. Sadly, we can use our gift(s) for selfish gain. This is not the intent for the gifts of the Spirit.

In verses 8-10 Paul gives us a partial list of the gifts of the Spirit. Each of these gifts – wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing… – are given to us and are manifested through the Spirit. We do not or cannot, for example, decide to be wise today. No, at times and in situations, the Spirit “activates” our gift of wisdom so that we can contribute to the common good and bring God the glory through the manifestation of wisdom.

Paul shifts gears in verses 12 and 13. This was to address a problem that we too can struggle with. As we can do with everything from sports to vocations to colleges to opinions, we can compare or elevate our own gift(s) of the Spirit. This human tendency was causing division in the church in Corinth. The ability to speak in tongues was the gift to have. Paul uses the human body as his analogy to break down this human tendency towards comparison. While many parts, they and we, Paul declares, are one body in Jesus Christ. We are all gifted and baptized by the one Spirit, unified by Christ’s Spirit, each uniquely gifted, all working together for the common good. May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, lead and guide us as we serve you and one another, using our gifts of the Spirit as we are empowered, seeking to bring about the common good here on earth. Help us understand that what is “good” might require sacrifice. Help us to discern what is “good” according to your will and way, aligned with your plans and purposes. You alone, O God, are truly good. Use us to reveal and to be about the work of building your kingdom here on earth. Amen.


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Following Jesus

Reading: John 14:1-7

John 14:6 – “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”

Credit: Rebecca Gelaney

As we close this week, we turn to John 14. In verses 1-7, Jesus again speaks of his upcoming death. This is not the first time the disciples have heard Jesus speak of his death and resurrection. Yet it is a subject that disturbs and worries them each time. I think we’d feel the same way. Death is a difficult and uncomfortable subject.

In verses 1-4 Jesus offers the disciples and us some comfort and hope. He begins with a reminder to trust in God and in Jesus himself. This will help with the worry and other troubles. Jesus then speaks of heaven as a place with “many rooms” and of returning so that “where I am you will be too.” In this hard and broken world, it is good to know that we have a wonderful place prepared for us. It is a place that we get to know a bit as we live out our faith here on earth.

Thomas wants more information. They don’t fully understand what Jesus is talking about. Sure, they understand death, but this “in three days” stuff? Into his questioning, Jesus tells them and us, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Jesus is the way to build the kingdom here on earth so that we will one day be welcomed into the kingdom of heaven. He is the truth that leads us as we discern the path to walk in this broken and hurting world. And Jesus is life – full and abundant now, glorious and eternal one day. Knowing Jesus, we know God. Following Jesus’ example, we draw closer and closer to God. Day by day, may this ever be so.

Prayer: Lord God, we thank you for sending Jesus, our example of your love and grace fully lived out. Although we often fall short, continue to call us to more. Redeem us and draw us closer and closer to your heart. And use us, O Lord. Use us to build your kingdom of love here on earth. Amen.


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Pure and Enduring

Reading: 1st Peter 1:3-9

1st Peter 1:4 – “You have a pure and enduring inheritance that cannot perish – an inheritance that is presently kept safe in heaven for you.”

In our passage today, Peter writes of the inheritance kept safe for those who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Before turning to that, though, a question: What have you inherited on this earth? For example, from my parents I inherited these things: the desire to teach, the drive to work hard and do my best, a love of family, a heart to serve others. In my parents, I saw these things lived out and made the intentional choice to take these as my own. I’ve also inherited things from friends: construction skills, interests… What have you inherited as you’ve lived this life? And perhaps more importantly, what will others – friends, family, strangers – inherit from you?

In verse 3 Peter reminds us, “You have been born anew into a living hope.” Through faith in Jesus Christ we are made into new creations. While the “old self” dies, we are not 100% new. We maintain those parts of ourselves already aligned with Christ. Yes, the sinful parts of us die away as we walk deeper into our saving relationship with Jesus. (Some of these things may have been inherited too.) The “living hope” that we walk in day to day does yield the “pure and enduring inheritance” that Peter speaks of. As we walk in faith, the Spirit keeps this inheritance safe, leading and guiding us to walk daily within the will and way of Jesus Christ. Thank you, Holy Spirit!

Prayer: Lord God, first, thank you for all who have poured into me to make me who I am in you: family, friends, pastors, teachers, bosses. And thank you for the ways you’ve used me to pour into others. And most of all, thank you for the example of Jesus and for the power and presence of the Holy Spirit – they which secure our place in your eternal home. Amen.


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Resurrection – Here and Now

Reading: John 11:17-45

John 11:25 – “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me will live, even though they die.”

We return to John 11 today. Jesus arrives near Bethany and Lazarus has been dead for four days. Jesus encounters Martha and then Mary outside of town. Both women say the same words to Jesus: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother wouldn’t have died.” Both see Jesus as a healer, as one who could’ve cured their brother’s illness. Later, others in the crowd echo this belief. In this sense, we are like them: we believe that Jesus has the power to change lives.

Martha adds to this statement. She adds, “Even now, I know that whatever you ask God, God will give you.” This statement of faith goes beyond healing lepers and blind men. Martha leans into the possibility of what Jesus could do. As times our faith takes us here too. We don’t see a way, but we trust that Jesus does. We lean into the impossible at times, trusting in a power beyond our imagination and sometimes even beyond our hope.

Mary comes to Jesus, deep in her grief. So deep is her grief, it draws Jesus in. He weeps for her, for Lazarus, for all who mourn. Jesus becomes present in the suffering. We too experience this. The Spirit is there with us in times of need – not healing, not guiding, just being present. Even when we ourselves cannot go beyond the “if only, God…,” God is present to us.

The scene then shifts to the tomb. In response to Martha’s faith and to Mary’s grief, Jesus calls Lazarus back from death. Jesus is the resurrection and life here and now, not just on the last day. This too is the Jesus we know. Again and again we experience resurrection and redemption. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, how we fit into this story and into your story! When we are like Martha, guide us to take that next step of deeper faith. When we are like Mary, be present to us. And when we are spiritually like Lazarus was physically, faith as dead as dead can be, being us new life. This we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.


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Alignment

Reading: Isaiah 58:1-9a

Isaiah 58:6 – “Isn’t this the fast I choose: releasing wicked restraints, untying the rope of a yoke, setting free the mistreated…?”

As we delve into the words of the prophet today and tomorrow, we do so recognizing the truth in Isaiah’s words yet today. God instructs the prophet to “shout loudly… Announce to my people their crime.” This echoes Micah’s words from last week. The people of Isaiah’s day seek God, yet abandon God. How does this work? Just as it does today. They want to be close to God but they live as if they did not know God. They are focused on self. The people of God “oppress all your workers… You quarrel and brawl.” These actions do not reflect a heart aligned with God’s will and way.

Starting in verse 6, God describes alignment: “Isn’t this the fast I choose: releasing wicked restraints, untying the rope of a yoke, setting free the mistreated…?” God desires a fast that changes hearts, that brings alignment with God’s heart. God’s kingdom on earth will not limit access to community, will not mistreat the other, will not keep people enslaved. It will be a place where all eat, where all are housed, where all are clothed, where all are included. This is the kingdom here on earth that I long for. Do you long for it? What am I, what are you doing to help make this kingdom a reality?

Isaiah looks forward, beginning in verse 8. The prophet shares the outcome of true alignment with God’s heart. Our light will “break out like the dawn” – spreading far and wide, touching every soul. Healing will come quickly and righteousness will guide all of our ways. Aligned with the heart of God, when we call out, God will quickly respond, “I’m here.” God will be with us as we are with God. O Lord, bring the day.

Prayer: Lord God, continue to unsettle us. Continue to open our eyes and hearts to the injustice, oppression, and violence of our time. Continue to raise our awareness of and response to those who live without the basics: food, clothing, shelter, safety, community. Continue to align our hearts with your heart, O God. Walking in step with you, use us to heal our broken land. Amen.


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Walking the “Holy Way”

Reading: Isaiah 35:8-10

Isaiah 35:8-9 – “A highway will be there. It will be called The Holy Way… Only the redeemed will walk on it.”

Photo credit: Aaron Burden

Today we continue in Isaiah’s vision. In its original context the prophet was speaking of the exiles return to the promised land. Isaiah’s oracle spoke of God’s redemption of Israel and of their safe journey through the wilderness. As the exiles return home, this “way” will be free of predators and enemies. No one will get lost along the way. Those ransomed from exile in Babylon will enter Jerusalem “with singing, with everlasting joy.” The grief and groaning of past suffering will “flee away.” For a people familiar with the long, difficult, costly journey out of exile in Egypt, these words of guidance and protection and blessing brought great hope to Israel.

In the now-and-not-yet spirit of Advent we next look at these words of Isaiah as a messianic text. During his ministry, Jesus proclaimed, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6.) With these words in mind we reconsider verses 8 and 9 from Isaiah 35: “A highway will be there. It will be called The Holy Way… Only the redeemed will walk on it.” Jesus walked and taught in holiness and righteousness. He called his disciples to walk in his footsteps, following his example of holiness and righteousness. Jesus offered forgiveness of sins to those who repented and committed to walk in his ways and truth. Redeemed from our sins, we strive to daily walk and live Jesus Christ’s “Holy Way.”

Looking forward with hope, the trust that the faithful will one day enter “Zion,” the new Jerusalem in God’s coming new kingdom. In that day the ransomed will sing praises to the Lord. Everlasting joy and peace will be upon us. The grief, groaning, tears, and suffering of this present life will be no more in our eternal home. What great hope! Thanks be to God!

Prayer: Lord God, we rejoice and thank you for rescuing and redeeming your people long ago, bringing them home to their inheritance. We rejoice and thank you for rescuing and redeeming us from our sins and failures each day, empowering us by your Holy Spirit to walk in Christ’s way. And we rejoice and thank you for our coming final rescue and redemption, when we will joyfully stand in your eternal light and love. You are a most awesome God. Glory be to you, O Lord! Amen.