pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: worthless


by Leave a comment

Choices

Reading: Isaiah 1:15-20

Isaiah 1:19… 20… – “If you agree and obey… But if you refuse and rebel…”

Isaiah was a prophet called by God to speak God’s word to Judah, the southern kingdom. Isaiah called Judah, particularly its leaders, to a radical trust and faith in God and away from their sinful behaviors. Judah is characterized at the start of Isaiah 1 as children who have turned away from God. The nation outside of Jerusalem is ravaged and the cities burn as Assyria wages war against Israel and Judah. But still Judah refuses to turn towards God. Yes, they are going through the motions of worship but their hearts are far from God. In fact, God calls all of their offerings “worthless.”

Because their worship is full of hypocrisy, God’s eyes refuse to see their extended hands. God’s ears are closed to their lengthy prayers. All because Judah’s hands are “stained with blood.” God even implores them, “Wash! Be clean!” Yet it is not the blood of warfare that stains their hands. The blood comes from within Judah. God instructs them, “Put an end to evil; learn to do good.” What good? To champion justice and to care for the oppressed, the orphan, the widow.

As if in a courtroom setting, God says to Judah, “Come now and let’s settle this.” With promises of their scarlet sins being made white as snow, God tells Judah, “If you agree and obey you will eat the best food of the land. But if you refuse and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.” Choose God or idols. Choose good or evil. Choose life or death. The same choices lie ever before you and before me.

Prayer: Lord God, since the beginning of creation these have been our choices. Until Jesus comes in final victory these will be our choices. Just as Isaiah spoke words of warning and words of life, may your Word and your Spirit guide us to faithful obedience. Lead us to walk your path in faith and trust, O Lord. Amen.


by Leave a comment

Everything in Love

Reading: 1st Corinthians 13-16

1st Corinthians 16:13-14 – “Stay awake, stand firm in your faith, be brave, be strong. Everything should be done in love.”

Photo credit: Freestocks

In chapter 13 Paul reveals the “even better way.” It is the way of love. One can demonstrate gifts of the Spirit or one can have faith big enough to move a mountain or can give everything away – but if not done in love, all is worthless. Paul lists love’s attributes: patient, kind, truthful, understanding, trusting, hopeful, enduring. Prophecies, tongues, knowledge – all will cease. Love is what will reveal Christ face to face. Love is what makes us fully known. Faith and hope – they are of this world. Love is for this world and for the world to come. As John Wesley notes, “Love us the sum of perfection in heaven.”

In chapter 14 we read about Paul’s response to a question. But we don’t have the question! Paul is offering corrections to their way of worship. It was disorderly, with many people speaking at once with others shouting out questions all the time. All should be done to build up people’s faith. Speak on at a time; ask the questions at home. Worship should be done “with dignity and in proper order.”

Paul reviews the main points of his preaching in chapter 15: Christ died for our sins, was buried, rose on the third day, and appeared to lots of people. Some people are questioning the resurrection. Paul notes, in fact, Christ was raised – “the first crop of the harvest.” He then used a seed to illustrate. Just as a seed goes into the ground and something new emerges, so too will our “rotting bodies” emerge as new spiritual beings.

After encouraging an offering and speaking longingly of visiting again, Paul gives this final greeting: “Stay awake, stand firm in your faith, be brave, be strong. Everything should be done in love.” May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, lead and guide us to practice and walk in the way of love. May our walk mirror Jesus’ walk. May we hold fast to the hope that we find in you. May we stand firm in our faith, knowing that your Spirit stands with us. Amen.


by Leave a comment

Yes, There Is Hope

Reading: Isaiah 45-48

‭Isaiah 48:10 – “See, I have refined you, but not like silver; I have tested you in the furnace of misery.”

In today’s readings we see the movement towards the end of the exile. God has chosen Cyrus, king of Persia, to be the instrument of change. Even though Cyrus does not yet know God, he will be used by God. Some people must have questioned the choice of Cyrus. In verses 9-13 God addresses these doubters, asking, “Are you questioning me about my own children?” God then again asserts the right to use Cyrus as the method to end the exile.

The last part of chapter 44 and most of 45 remind Israel of the worthlessness of idols. The idol makers will be shamed and disgraced. The idols don’t respond to cries for help, they can’t save anyone from their distress. In contrast, God speaks truth and announces what is correct. God carries Israel – from the womb to old age. These worthless idols – they must be carried from place to place.

The dethroning of Babylon is announced in chapter 47. Yes, God was angry at Israel and Judah. Yes, God chose Babylon to punish them. But Babylon went too far. They took no pity on God’s children. The yoke was heavy. Babylon did not “stop and think… didn’t consider the outcome.” Now destruction is upon them.

Chapter 49 is a reminder of what could have been and hope for what may yet be. God reminds Israel and Judah that they are “stubborn,” with necks of iron and foreheads of bronze. Today we’d say they were selfish and really slow learners. If only they’d follow the commands… then well-being would flow like a river, righteousness would come in waves. If only… their descendants would be like the grains of sand. Yes, and God said in chapter 48, “See, I have refined you, but not like silver; I have tested you in the furnace of misery.” The time has come to try again. God will free Israel from Babylon. They will leave shouting, “The Lord has redeemed his servant Jacob!” Yes, there is hope. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, you offer us hope, love, relationship, mercy, blessing. You also remind us that we are prone to chasing after the things of this world as our selfish nature rises up. If only we ever chose you. If only we always were holy and faithful. Like Israel, we fail again and again. Yet with you there is always hope. You long to redeem us. You do so again and again. Thank you, God. Amen.


by Leave a comment

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.


by Leave a comment

For Me. For Us. For You.

Readings: Psalms 113-118

‭Psalm 118:6 – “The LORD is for me — I won’t be afraid. What can anyone do to me?”

Today’s six Psalms are known as the “Egyptian Hallelujah.” These words of praise were recited each year at the Passover meal. Psalms 113 and 114 were recited before the meal. These Psalms celebrate God’s actions on behalf of the poor and needy and on behalf of Israel during the exodus. Psalm 113 exalts the God who lifts up the poor, who raises the needy, who brings the barren woman the joy of motherhood. These words echo “Hannah’s Song” from 1st Samuel 2 where God acted on behalf of the faithful. Psalm 114 remembers the parting of the sea and river, the bringing of water from the rocks – more signs of God’s faithful love.

After eating the Passover meal, Psalms 115 through 118 would be recited. Although lost in translation, Psalms 115 and 118 were originally written and spoken as call-and-response liturgy. Psalm 115 lifts up God’s power and might, contrasting God with worthless idols who “have mouths, but they can’t speak.” God is Israel’s “strength and shield.” 115 closes with blessings to all. Psalm 116 is a celebration of an individual’s rescue, reminding Israel that God is a personal God too. Because of God’s deliverance the individual will “lift up the cup of salvation… will keep the promises” made to God. Psalm 117 lifts up God’s strong love.

The Hallelujah closes with Psalm 118. The setting is an individual coming to the temple to give thanks to God. This Psalm calls Israel, the priests, and all who honor the Lord to declare, “God’s faithful love lasts forever!” Because of their experience with this in the exodus, the psalmist writes, “The LORD is for me — I won’t be afraid. What can anyone do to me?” God was faithful. God is faithful. God will be faithful. What is to fear?

Verses 22 and 27 are often connected to Jesus – the stone rejected, the light that shined, the offering led to the new altar, the cross. These are echoes found in the ever expanding story of God’s love, reflections on the final Passover lamb.

Prayer: Lord God, today’s words celebrate your presence with your people. Just as you rescued and delivered, just as you provided and made a way, do so for us in our lives too, O God. We seek to walk in your strong and faithful love, a love that lasts forever. Thank you, Lord, for your love. Amen.


by Leave a comment

An Extension

Readings: Psalms 108-112

‭Psalm 111:3 – “God’s deeds are majestic and glorious. God’s righteousness stands forever.”

Psalms 108 and 109 seek God’s presence in the struggles against enemies. Psalm 108 begins with praise to God. The psalmist’s “unwavering heart” will make music for all people, proclaiming God’s faithful love. The Psalm celebrates God choosing Gilead, Manasseh… and rejecting Moab, Edom… Yet the writer turns in verse 11, asking the familiar question: Where are you, God? The psalmist asks for God’s help because “human help is worthless.” Psalm 109 seeks God’s help too – just on a personal level. Verses 6-19 detail the “hateful words” spoken by the enemies. From a place of weakness the psalmist begs God to shame and disgrace his or her enemies.

Psalm 110 speaks of kingship. It invites God’s presence with the king, allowing the “mighty scepter” to reach far. The psalmist calls to mind God’s “solemn pledge” to establish the kings. The Psalm closes with a reminder that God’s justice will reign.

Psalms 111 and 112 are similar. They praise God’s work and the workings of a righteous life. There is a parallel here. In Psalm 111 the psalmist praises God’s works as magnificent, majestic, and glorious. God’s righteousness, mercy, and compassion are celebrated. God’s handiwork is honesty and justice. God brings redemption. It closes proverbially: “Fear of the Lord is where wisdom begins.” Psalm 112 echoes these traits of God. The people of God are to be an extension of God. We are to be righteous and generous, merciful and compassionate. In the end, then, we too will see our enemies’ defeat. Death and pain and oppression and struggle will be no more. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, your presence is what we need. Whether beset by enemies or praising your glorious reign, we need your presence. On the stormy days and on the days of joy and peace, be present to us, O God. Guide us to walk and live faithfully, shining your love onto and into the world. Amen.


by Leave a comment

Place of Rest, Strength, and Refuge

Readings: Psalms 60-63

‭Psalm 63:3 – “My lips praise you because your faithful love is better than life itself!”

Today’s Psalms provide a great and familiar pattern. Psalms 60 and 61 are prayers for God’s help. Psalm 62 confesses that God alone is the source of the strength that we need. Psalm 63 is a song of confidence in God. We often experience this movement in our lives. We cry out in the storm, God’s strength gives us a way through, we praise God.

Psalm 60 is a communal plea for help. Israel feels rejected – even though God once claimed Gilead, Manasseh… David asks God for a “flag” to rally around – a champion who will lead Israel to defeat the enemy. He closes with a plea for help against Moab, Edom, and Philistia because “human help is worthless.” How true. Yet how often do we try to win the battle on our own?

We enter a more personal plea in Psalm 61. The lament begins “When my heart is weak”… then God can be the rock, refuge, and tower of strength. The author longs to be in God’s “tent” (tabernacle.) The Psalm closes with a prayer for the king to live long and to be “enthroned forever before God.” Thoughts of dynasty echo here.

A shift comes in Psalm 62. God is the psalmist’s place of rest. God is his or her rock, salvation, stronghold. Then there is a reflection on life beginning in verse 9. Life is but a breath. So don’t trust in violence or in wealth. Trust in God’s faithful love and strength because God “will repay everyone according to their deeds.”

Most of Psalm 63 focuses on God’s power… David searches for, thirsts for God. David recalls encountering God in the sanctuary. With rejoicing he declares, “My lips praise you because your faithful love is better than life itself!” He finds joy when he meditates on God’s word. Then there’s a hard right at the end – destroy my enemies! Alas David.

Prayer: Lord God, be with us all of our days. When we or our community is suffering, be our strength and our place of rest and refuge. Guide us to place our trust fully in you alone. Only you can bring us through. Draw us into your presence and guard our hearts from evil thoughts. Justice is yours alone to hand out. Walk with us, O God, our rock and our stronghold. Amen.


by Leave a comment

Justice, Mercy, Humility

Reading: Micah 6:6-8

Verse 8: “God has shown you… what is good… what is required… To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

Photo credit: Simon Berger

As we turn to the second half of this week’s Old Testament passage, Micah asks what he should bring before the Lord. He wonders if burnt offerings would be enough. Maybe so if it were “thousands of rams” followed by “ten thousand rivers of oil?” That sounds like a lot. Or maybe something closer to home? Perhaps sacrifice a child – “the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?” That feels like a lot. It felt like a lot was needed. The sin of Israel was great. Yet for God, restoring a relationship wasn’t about volume or about a huge but isolated proof of faith. It was much simpler. It was about the heart. In Micah’s day the Israelites were going through the motions required by the sacrificial system. To go through them a thousand or ten thousand times mattered not. To offer your firstborn and then to return to sinful living? Worthless.

Instead of hands and feet going through meaningless motions, God desired the heart of the people. God wanted to see hearts committed to what really mattered to God. In verses 8 we read, “God has shown you… what is good… what is required… To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” God sought people with hearts focused on justice, mercy, and humility. This is what is good. This is what is required. This is what really matters to God. The challenge for us is this: in our modern world, how do we live this out?

We live in a time when people are selfish and focused on material goods and social status. From this place it is difficult to see injustice, oppression, and pride as bad things. They are the means to achieving success. Yet these practices leave a wake of poverty and division and need. It is to these things that the eyes and heart of God are drawn. What is our response, our good and required response? It is not to write a check for $1,000 or to donate 10,000 meals or to sell our house to give money to some great cause. While good and likely helpful to others, these motions do not align our eyes and heart with God’s eyes and heart. Our response is really much simpler than these things. Very hard in our culture, yes, but simpler. What is good, what God required? A daily walk that focuses on justice for all, mercy and kindness to all, and humility as we seek to walk hand in hand with our God. Walking this way, our eyes and hearts will be drawn to the places and people that draw God’s eyes and heart. May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, it really is pretty basic, isn’t it? Step away from self and from all that the world says matters. Step into the circumstances and lives of people that matter to you – those needing to experience justice, those needing mercy, those requiring a humble servant’s presence. Use me in all of these ways, O God. Amen.


by Leave a comment

Remember

Reading: Jeremiah 8:18-9:1

Verse 19b: “Why have they provoked me to anger with their images, with their worthless foreign idols?”

In our time yesterday we looked at Jeremiah’s trust in God’s presence during a time of hardship and trial. Jeremiah’s heart cries out for the wayward people, for those who were crushed. His heart mourns for the suffering and the slain. Through it all is a sure confidence that God is with them. Jeremiah displays a mature faith. Life has taught him that God is there in the highs and lows and in everything in between.

The people of Israel cry out, “Is the Lord not in Zion?” They question if God is even with them. The response should be to seek God, to turn to God. The history of Israel suggests that God will be there. The covenants promise that God is there. In the latter half of verse 19 we hear God’s response: “Why have they provoked me to anger with their images, with their worthless foreign idols?” Questioning God’s presence, the people turned once again to idols. They decided to trust in something other than the Lord God.

The sad reality is that many of us do the same thing. If an unexpected or difficult tragedy befalls us, we can question if God is real or present or good. If we have a rough day or if something doesn’t quite go our way, we can turn to food or drugs or alcohol. If we are in a season that pinches our finances or some other earthly form of security, we can turn to leaders or systems for help. We too can be slow to turn to God. We too can turn to worthless idols.

When tempted to turn to idols or to someone or something other than God, may we remember that the Lord God loves us, is always seeking our good, and is steadfast and true. May we ever trust in God.

Prayer: Lord, in the pain or the trial, draw me back to you. In the times when I’m drawn to something else, draw me back into your love. Amen.


by Leave a comment

Jars of Clay

Reading: 2nd Corinthians 4: 5-12

Verse 6: “For God… made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of… Christ”.

Photo credit: Freestocks

In our passage today Paul works out the idea that we have “this treasure in jars of clay”. Paul is using a metaphor that would have stood out and caught his audience’s attention. Clay jars were common, everywhere. It was the every day container for storing all sorts of things. Clay jars were cheap, easily replaced. So who would put their treasure in a jar of clay? It could be easily smashed, the treasure removed quickly.

In the metaphor we are the jars of clay. Our faith is fragile – easily broken by the cares of this world and by the temptations of the evil one. We are over seven billion strong – commonplace and too often treated as easily replaced. Just as no one would put their valued treasures in clay jars, why in the world would the God of the universe place his treasure in us human beings?

Well, the treasure is not gold or any other temporal, earthly thing of value. The treasure God places in our heart is the Spirit of his Son, Jesus Christ. Paul puts it this way in verse six: “For God… made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of… Christ”. This “all-encompassing power”, this treasure, gives us strength when hard pressed – so we are not crushed. It gives us the wisdom of God when we are perplexed – so that we will not despair. It gives us courage and support when we are persecuted, reminding us that God never abandons us. It keeps hope alive in us when we are struck down, whispering into our heart that nothing in all of creation can destroy our place in God’s family – here or in the time to come. This is but a short list of what the all-surpassing power of God does in our lives.

As we rejoice in what the power of God’s Spirit does in our lives, let us also pause to think of those we know who are jars of clay – perhaps a bit broken, definitely fragile, maybe seen as worthless or commonplace at best. As we think of these, how can this “light of Christ” within us shine into their lives, bringing that same strength, wisdom, courage, support, hope, sense of belonging… that we treasure?

Prayer: Lord God, I am so grateful for your presence in my life. The ways you touch and are present to me make walking a life of faith possible. May your light and love shine out of me, revealing your glory for all to see. Amen.