pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: worship


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May Blessings Flow

Reading: Ezekiel 53-48

Ezekiel 47:9 – “Wherever the river flows, every living thing that moves will thrive.”

Photo credit: Kazuend

The majority of today’s reading focuses on God’s presence re-entering the new temple and on the ordering of all aspects of worship and temple life. God’s glory fills the temple, leading Ezekiel to fall in worship. God then instructs him to listen carefully and to write down these new instructions. The central focus is on holy versus unholy or clean versus unclean. Building and purifying the altar, proper worship on the Sabbath and during the two festivals (used to be three), honoring the east gate, setting aside sacred spaces, regular offerings – all were aimed at maintaining the holy. To keep and hold these spiritual practices in the highest ways would work against a return to the “detestable practices” of old, to the unholy.

In chapter 47 there is a river that flows from the temple, out the east gate – the gate that God’s holiness entered through. The trickle grows to a vast river that brings life and abundance to the people of God. As God’s presence is brought out into the world, blessings flow with it. This remains true today.

Ezekiel closes by defining Israel’s borders and by allotting land to the tribes. These boundaries connect back to what God originally laid out for Moses back in Numbers 35. Land is allotted, beginning in the north, to Dan, Asher, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim, Reuben, and Judah. Next comes the Holy portion, with the temple at its center. The city and Prince are allotted land here in this central section. Moving to the south, land is allotted to Benjamin, Simeon, Issachar, Zebulun, and Gad. Benjamin and Judah remain central, just flipped from their pre-exile locations. Similarly, the tribes furthest out are the children of the maidservants. Each tribe received an equal portion of the land. This time the Levites are included. The twelve city gates are named after the original sons of Jacob. Joseph’s sons are combined to make space for Levi. God’s new kingdom envisioned here will one day be established here on earth. We await the day!

Prayer: Lord God, what a vision for what will be at the end of this present age. You will be the center, the focus, the life source. Yes, we do await the day. Yet, as we wait, Lord God, use us to draw this world closer to this vision. Use us as the life-giving river that flows out into the world, bringing blessings and abundance into people’s lives. Amen.


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A Holy Sabbath

Reading: Isaiah 56-59

Isaiah 58:2 – “They seek me day after day… like a nation that acted righteously, that didn’t abandon their God.”

Today and tomorrow we read Third Isaiah. As is the case throughout all of Isaiah, the focus remains on justice and righteousness. In today’s readings these key faith practices center on keeping the Sabbath holy. This holy day, kept once a week, had the power to keep the Israelites connected to God in a way that would be reflected out into how they lived their lives the rest of the week. The Sabbath retains this power yet today.

Chapter 56 begins with an invitation to keep the Sabbath. The invite goes even to those “outsiders” – to the eunuchs and to the immigrants. These too will join others who keep the Sabbath holy, coming one day to God’s holy mountain. This open, honest, and welcoming invitation stands in stark contrast to the condemnation offered around Israel’s unholy Sabbath practices: “They seek me day after day… like a nation that acted righteously, that didn’t abandon their God.”

Isaiah turns next to a condemnation of the leaders. They have “monstrous appetites” and “every last one [is] greedy for profit.” These lead to the displeasing Sabbath fast described at the start of chapter 58. The leaders oppress their workers (probably making them work on the Sabbath) and they quarrel and brawl on the holy day. God asks, “Is this what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord?” Umm… no.

This behavior alienates them from God. It obscures their vision. Because it is inwardly focused, it blinds them to the injustice and oppression that they are practicing. Chapter 59 details this as well as adding that God will intervene, one day choosing to redeem Israel.

In chapter 58:6-14 Isaiah lays out the Sabbath fast that pleases the Lord our God. It is a day to remove yokes and to stand against oppression. It is a day to care for the hungry, the homeless, the naked. To practice justice and righteousness – that is keeping the Sabbath holy. Then, the Lord says, “Your light will shine in the darkness” and then “you will take delight in the Lord.” May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, we see once again the choice to be made: justice and righteousness or injustice and oppression. You clearly call us to choose justice and righteousness. This begins with how we treat the Sabbath, a day to be set aside for you, not for self. It is a day to reflect your love and concern for all people. Lord, lead and guide us to be holy Sabbath-keepers. And may the evidence of this sacred practice flow out through our daily lives, shining light into darkness. Amen.


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Called… Mine

Reading: Isaiah 40-44

‭Isaiah 43:10-11 – “Before me no god was formed; after me there has been no other. I, I am the LORD, and there is no savior besides me.”

Photo credit: Patrick Schneider

Today we begin Second Isaiah. We’ve skipped forward about 140 years. Written during the time of the Babylonian exile, this section offers promises of deliverance, forgiveness, renewal, and a return to the Promised Land. The prophet is not shy about reminding Israel and Judah about their past disobedience, especially their foolishness in worshipping idols.

Chapter 40 declares that God’s people have paid their penalty. God will now clear a “way in the desert” so that God can gather and tend to the flock. The theme is picked up in chapter 43, where we read that God will gather them from the east, west, north, and south. God will do a new thing, making “paths in the wilderness.” Our reading closes with God declaring that the Promised Land will be resettled, that the cities will be rebuilt, and that the temple “will be founded again.” What words of hope and promise for a people living in exile.

A large portion of today’s reading focuses on who and what God is. This was essential to return home. They needed to again know God as creator, maker, defender, redeemer. Again and again God asks questions like, “Who is my equal?” Well, no one. In chapter 43 we read, “Before me no god was formed; after me there has been no other. I, I am the LORD, and there is no savior besides me.” The implication is that there is only one God to love, only one God to worship.

The prophet also gives some attention to the worthlessness of idols. God invites them to speak – they can’t. God invites them to do something – they can’t. The same is true for us today. Our money, our possessions, our titles, our followers on social media – in the big picture, these too are all worthless. May we instead choose to worship the Lord our God, the one who says to each of us, “I have called you by name; you are mine.”

Prayer: Lord God, you are the waymaker, the one true God. You formed us in the womb, designed us to live in relationship with you. When we fall off the path, you call us back again and again, so great is your love and mercy. Lead and guide us to walk in your light and love today. Amen.


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Sense It

Reading: Isaiah 17-23

‭Isaiah 22:11 – “But you didn’t trust its maker; you didn’t consider the one who planned it long ago.”

Today’s seven chapters hold the remaining oracles against the nations around Judah as well as against Judah itself. Our readings begin with the fall of Damascus and Ephraim. Their attempt at an anti-Assyrian alliance angered God. In response, God will “harvest armfuls at a time.” God then proclaims, “They will be a wasteland because you forgot the God who saves you, and didn’t remember the rock who shelters you.” There is a sadness that we can feel in God’s voice. We can sense it because at times we too create the same sadness.

The oracles against Cush, Egypt, Babylon, Tyre, and even Judah herself follow. The foreign nations will be cut down and pruned, will be naked and barefoot and humiliated, will be defeated and trampled, will be destroyed and prostituted. The consequences for their sin will be great. Judah too will suffer. Judah and its leaders relied on self instead of on God. When God called for prayer and fasting, there was “fun and frivolity.” God declared, “But you didn’t trust its maker; you didn’t consider the one who planned it long ago.” Again, we can sense the sadness in God’s voice. And, yes, it is so because we too fail to trust in God at times.

We also hear words of hope in today’s reading. At the end of chapter 19 Isaiah speaks of God’s blessing on all who “swear loyalty to the Lord.” God will hear their cries and will “send them a Savior and a defender to rescue them.” In response, the faithful will “worship with sacrifices and offerings, making promises to the Lord and fulfilling them.” We can sense the joy for God in this faithfulness. May we too bring this joy to the Lord our God.

Prayer: Lord God, forgive us when we forget your gifts of salvation and shelter. Forgive us when we try to go it on our own, forgetting the one who created and planned our world and our lives. Remind us and draw us once again to our Savior, defender, friend. Thank you, God. Amen.


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Effort Matters

Reading: Ecclesiastes 9-12

‭Ecclesiastes 10:10 – “If an ax is dull and one doesn’t sharpen it first, then one must exert more force.”

Photo credit: Falaq Lazuardi

As we conclude Ecclesiastes today we begin with the remainder that the deeds of the righteous and wise are in God’s hands. Even so, death awaits us all. Chapter 12 alludes to our general decline as we age. The sun and light grow dark, people become afraid, and then “the human goes to the eternal abode.” The Teacher recognizes that there is a finality to this life.

But during our lives, the advice is to eat joyfully, to drink happily, to have oil for our heads, and to enjoy our “dearly loved spouse.” Even though all of our days are pointless, it is our part to play. So whenever we can, we should do these things with “all your might.”

The Teacher also recognizes that much is out of our control. The swift don’t always win the race. “Accidents can happen to anyone,” says the sage. When tragedy suddenly befalls us, we are like “fish caught in a net.”

Even so, we are encouraged to take pleasure in all of our years. Yes, there will be dark days. Yes, one day we’ll be called into account by God. And, yes, our deeds matter. The lazy – the cloud and wind watchers – won’t sow or harvest. Effort matters. In 10:10 we read, “If an ax is dull and one doesn’t sharpen it first, then one must exert more force.” Seek wisdom and knowledge and skill. Life will be better. Maybe, says the Teacher.

Ecclesiastes closes with a reminder to worship God and to obey the commands. It is what everyone must do, because, remember, judgment is coming. May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, in the grand scope of life, lead us day by day to enjoy life and all it has to offer. Put joy into the work of our hands and obedience into our hearts of faith. Amen.


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Praise God!

Readings: Psalms 145-150

‭Psalm 145:8 – “The LORD is merciful and compassionate, very patient, and full of faithful love.”

We close our time in the Psalms with Psalm 145 and then the “Hallelujah” Psalms, 146-150. These five begin and end with “Praise the Lord” – our translation of the original Hebrew: “hallelu” and “yah.”

Psalm 145 calls for us to praise the Lord, from one generation to the next. This praise is “proclaiming your mighty acts.” Doing so leads the worshippers to “rave in celebration.” That’s a phrase we don’t find often in the Bible! In verse 8 the psalmist writes, “The LORD is merciful and compassionate, very patient, and full of faithful love.” Because of these traits, the psalmist can also write, “The Lord is close to everyone who calls on him.” True and true!

Psalms 146-150 celebrate God’s mighty acts, each with their own focus. Psalm 146 celebrates the God who brings justice to the oppressed and who frees the prisoners, the God who protects the immigrants and who straightens the bent. Psalm 147 celebrates this compassionate heart of God and then adds thanks for God’s generous hand in nature. Psalm 148 calls all of creation to praise God – sun, moon, and stars, hills and trees, all creatures, including “kings of the earth and every single person.” Psalm 149 calls for praise and expresses the belief that the execution of justice will bring honor to God and God’s people. Lastly, Psalm 150 closes with a snapshot of worship. Any and all instruments will be used to praise God. May that include our voices!

Prayer: Lord God, yes, we are called to praise you, to lift your name on high. Lead us to join all of creation in worshipping your holy name. Open our hearts to pour forth praise from our lips. All glory and honor and praise to you, O God! Amen.


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Rejoice! Celebrate!

Readings: Psalms 90-95

‭Psalm 91:2 – “I say to the LORD, ‘You are my refuge, my stronghold! You are my God — the one I trust!'”

Photo credit: Shane Rounce

Today we begin Book 4! We begin with a Psalm attributed to Moses. The Psalm considers the fleeting nature of life. God sweeps humans away “like a dream.” We finish up our years “with a whimper.” So the author invites us to “number our days.” Doing so we learn to live with a “wise heart.” Doing so, life has meaning and purpose.

Psalm 91 petitions God for divine protection. It feels like a counter to Psalm 90. In verse 2 we read, “I say to the LORD, ‘You are my refuge, my stronghold! You are my God — the one I trust!'” The Psalm speaks of God’s protection and saving in times of sickness and trial. It proclaims that if even 1,000 fall dead, we will be ok. This is because God will “order his messengers to help you… to protect you.” While we can feel the psalmist’s trust, we must remember that this is a possibility and not necessarily a promise. The faithful are not immune from the happenings of life.

Psalms 92 and 93 compliment each other. Psalm 92 is a song of thanksgiving for victory. The wicked are like grass – they perish quickly. The righteous are like trees. They will bear fruit in old age. Psalm 93 recognizes God as the one who won’t be shaken, as the one mightier than the flood. Holiness “decorates” God’s house.

Psalm 94 is addressed to the “avenging God.” The arrogant brag and afflict widows, immigrants, and orphans. The God who hears and sees will repay the evil. This God helps the righteous, steadying slipping feet and comforting the anxious. This God is our fortress and our rock of refuge.

This leads us to Psalm 95, a call to worship God. It begins, “Let’s raise a joyful shout.” The “people of his pasture” are called to worship, to bow down, to kneel before the Lord.  A warning against hardening one’s heart closes the Psalm. It is good to offer our praise and thanksgiving to God. It counters our prideful nature and our tendency to turn inward.

Prayer: Lord God, at times we pray as the psalmists pray: steady us, comfort us, forgive us, protect us. At other times we too rejoice in your goodness and love. We celebrate your faithfulness and your justice. Today may our lives sing of your glory, power, and might. Amen.


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Sing, O Israel

Readings: Psalms 64-68

‭Psalm 68:9 – “You showered down abundant rain, God; when your inheritance grew weary, you restored it yourself.”

Psalm 64 begins with a prayer for protection and finishes with a celebration of God’s acts. Psalms 65-67 join in the celebration of God’s mighty acts. We close with Psalm 68, mostly more praise but with some petitions for God to act. As we draw close to the end of Book 2, we see the shift towards more praise and less lament.

Psalm 64 begins with prayer of protection against the evil doers’ words or “arrows.” What an appropriate descriptor. The psalmist trusts that God will respond with an arrow too. Then the righteous will rejoice in the Lord. The rejoicing continues in Psalm 65, where David is grateful for God’s listening ear and forgiving heart. David also celebrates how God can “calm the roaring sea.” How we too are grateful for this gift! The Psalm closes with thanksgiving for God’s provision of abundant flocks and grains. Yes, God is good.

Psalm 66 focuses on God’s deeds and power. This power has tested and refined them – a good process. A good one for us too. Not always enjoyable but always fruitful. The psalmist’s response? Offerings given and promises kept, a joyful response! The thanksgiving extends in Psalm 67 to include the gift of salvation. It is to be made known to the nations. Then the nations of the world will better understand the fair judgments that God renders and will better receive the guidance that God desires to give to all of the nations of the world.

Closing today with Psalm 68, the Psalm begins with a grand sweep of God’s acts: scatters the enemy, cares for orphans and widows, sets prisoners free. The psalmist celebrates God’s provision and love: “You showered down abundant rain, God; when your inheritance grew weary, you restored it yourself.” The Psalm closes by remembering God’s past victories, grand worship, and shows of strength. The psalmist longs for these to return. Remind yourselves through song. Sing, O Israel, sing to the God who gives you strength!

Prayer: Lord God, we too thank you for the many ways that you move in our lives and in our world. We offer you our praise and worship! And we too count on your continued presence. Without you, O Lord, we’d be in trouble. Shower us with your abundant love and provision. Go with us day by day. Amen.


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The Lord Will Fight

Readings: 2nd Chronicles 29, 2nd Chronicles 30, 2nd Chronicles 31, 2nd Chronicles 32

2nd Chronicles 32:8 – “All he has is human strength, but we have the LORD our God, who will help us fight our battles!”

Hezekiah is the focus of today’s readings. In the first month of his rule he reopens the temple and sets the priests to making it holy once again. After eight days the temple is purified. Early the next morning sacrifices are offered for all Israel, songs are sung, the Lord is praised. Hezekiah invites the people to bring thank offerings to God. The response is so great that the Levites have to step in and help.

Next Hezekiah reestablishes the celebration of the Passover. He sends word throughout all of Judah – and Israel. Some from up north laugh and make fun of the invitation, but some come from Israel. A huge crowd gathers and celebrates the Passover. So wonderful and joyous is the celebration, they decide to worship God for seven more days. Fueled by this celebration the people go out and cleanse Judah of all idol worship. The pillars, poles, shrines, and altars are all destroyed.

Hezekiah then calls for the resumption of the tithe to support the daily needs of the priests. The people bring their best in great abundance. Judah is at its high point in its relationship with God – the best since the days of Solomon. It is then that King Sennacherib of Assyria comes. Hezekiah trusts fully in God. He encourages the troops to be brave and strong. He says, “All he has is human strength, but we have the LORD our God, who will help us fight our battles!” Hezekiah trusts that the Lord will fight the battle. That very night God’s messenger comes and kills 185,000 Assyrian soldiers (2nd Kings 19.) Sennacherib goes home in disgrace.

A deadly illness then sets in on Hezekiah but he cries out to God and is healed. But in that moment he is too proud to properly thank God. He and Israel begin to feel God’s anger. They repent and God’s blessings return. Hezekiah dies and is buried in the “upper area” of the tombs with David’s sons. Gold star!

Prayer: Lord God, what a great reminder of the value of a long, steady, obedient faith. In the big and the small, your will and your ways were the focus. Trust in you was sure. Help us to live out this kind of faith. Amen.


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Wild Swings

Readings: 2nd Chronicles 17, 2nd Chronicles 18, 2nd Chronicles 19, 2nd Chronicles 20

2nd Chronicles 20:20 – “Trust the LORD your God, and you will stand firm; trust his prophets and succeed!”

Photo credit: Gabriel Valdez

Jehoshaphat is the focus of today’s readings. He succeeds Asa as king of Judah. He is faithful to God, removing the shrines and sacred poles. He sends royal officials along with Levites out into all of the cities to teach the Lord’s instruction scroll to the people. Surrounding kingdoms fear Judah. They bring tribute. Jehoshaphat builds fortresses and storage cities. God is clearly with him and with Judah. And then Jehoshaphat marries into Ahab’s family, creating an alliance.

While in Israel, Ahab invites Jehoshaphat to join him in attacking Aram. Jehoshaphat agrees but wants to consult God first. Ahab gathers his prophets who all say, “Attack!” But Jehoshaphat wants to hear from God. Reluctantly Micaiah is summoned. In the end he predicts death for Ahab. A lying spirit has filled Ahab’s prophets’ mouths. Ahab wears a disguise into battle. A random arrow hits the mark. Ahab does that day.

Returning to Judah, Jehoshaphat is confronted by Jehu. The most pointed question is this: “Why have you loved those who hate the Lord?” There is no good answer to this question. A merciful God yet finds some good in Jehoshaphat. He returns to reforms, personally encouraging the people to turn to God. He appoints judges throughout Judah, enduring that God’s justice will prevail.

The enemy comes against Judah again – a huge army. Afraid, Jehoshaphat declares a fast for all Judah. He turns to God in the temple and prays: God is powerful. This enemy is mighty. We are powerless. Help! The prophet Jahaziel tells them not to be afraid: the battle “belongs to God!” God turns the enemy upon one another. Judah arrived to find only corpses. They gather great plunder and celebrate in Jerusalem, worshipping the Lord God.

Jehoshaphat’s final act is another alliance with Israel. This too ends in disaster. In Jehoshaphat we see a deep and sure trust in God and then wild swings into disobedience. We want to shout, “WHY?” Sadly, the same question can often be asked of us.

Prayer: Lord God, yes, we too can go from “All in for you God!” to “How did I get here?!” with alarming quickness. Lord, continue to work within us, strengthening our spirit, our resolve, our stamina, our trust, our faith. Amen.