May 26 - Do You Understand What You are Reading?

Acts 8:26-35

Today we read about Phillip’s encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch. “This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the book of Isaiah the prophet.” All indications are that he was reading from Isaiah 53, a wonderful prophecy about Jesus.
Phillip asks this man a key question: “Do you understand what you are reading?” And… Phillip goes on to explain the scripture including the gospel message. The eunuch believes and is baptized (Acts 8:36-38).

In my last Bible Blast I wrote about being able to share our faith. Paul gave an example by sharing his faith with the people of Athens in Acts 17:16-29. Now we are looking at the same topic.

This is an area where I have lots of room for improvement. I tend to think that most people have heard the gospel message and there is no need for me to share it. That is not true. Some quick research indicates that approximately 35% of the people in Franklin County identify themselves as Christian. That means that even if all of the 35% are truly believers, roughly two out of every three people that we encounter in Franklin County don’t know Jesus. Certainly some have heard the gospel and have not yet believed, but just as certainly a significant number of people have simply never heard – or like the Ethiopian, never understood.

Today’s reading and some other scripture verses provide some guidance when it comes to sharing our faith. Paul sets an example of sharing our faith in simple terms: 1 Corinthians 2:1 -2 “And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. 2 For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” Peter asks that we share our faith with gentleness and respect: 1 Peter 3:15 “ But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” And now Phillip demonstrates that a familiarity with God’s Word is helpful when people are searching for truth but do not understand: Acts 8:30 “ Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked.”

These examples from scripture provide some good “food for thought” as we encounter people in our daily lives. Sharing our faith in simple terms, doing so with gentleness and respect, and studying God’s Word are all practices that we can put into good use!

May 12 - Always be Prepared

Acts 17:16-29

In today’s reading we find Paul in Athens. He speaks in the synagogue and in the marketplace with a variety of people and eventually encounters “A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers (who) began to dispute with him.” My Concordia Self Study Bible notes indicate that Epicurean philosophers originally taught that the supreme good in life was a lasting happiness. But at the time of Paul’s interaction “this philosophy had degenerated into more of a sensual system of thought.”The Stoic philosophers “taught that people should live in accord with nature, recognize their own self-sufficiency and independence, and suppress their desires.” By Paul’s time this system had become a system of pride. Ultimately this leads to Paul addressing a larger group of Athens’ citizens and responding to questions about God and the gospel.

It turns out that Paul is up to the task of defending his faith. He tells the crowd in simple terms about the one true God and ultimately presents the gospel message. Acts 17:34 confirms this by stating “A few men became followers of Paul and believed. Among them Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, and a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.”

Like Paul, we are surrounded by people who hold life philosophies that are different from ours – and like Paul we should be prepared to share the truth of God and the gospel. 1 Peter 3:15 has some good advice on this topic: “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.”

When there is an opportunity to share our story we can learn from Paul how to present our faith in simple terms and follow Peter’s advice about doing so with gentleness and respect. Let’s look for opportunities to do that in the days ahead!

Pray Earnestly

Acts 12:5-12

So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying for him (v. 5).  Have you ever been part of a group that was earnestly praying for something or maybe you’ve been the recipient of earnest prayer?  Either way, it’s a powerful thing and I can only imagine Peter felt that power.

In the case of today’s scripture, the outcome was intense and timely.  Peter was freed the night before Herod was to bring him to trial.  At first, Peter wasn’t sure what was happening, but he eventually realized he was being rescued by an angel.  When the soldiers woke up and the guards realized that Peter was gone, they were dumbfounded at what had happened.  To the church it was a miraculous answer to prayer.  Miracles, while amazing, are a reality for the Lord.  Nothing is impossible for Him.

Now, the tough part comes when you pray and don’t get the miracle you’re hoping for.  It doesn’t always make sense, but in Peter’s case, the outcome was exactly what the church needed.

And after he was freed, Peter went to the house of Mary and what did he encounter? - Many friends praying.  They were excited to see Peter walk in the door.  Their prayers had been answered!  But after hugs and handshakes, I’m guessing they went back to praying.  That’s the thing with prayer, it’s always needed.  Once it’s answered – whether exactly the way you want or not – there’s always something else to pray for.  So, keep on praying and see what wonders it can do.

Unfinished Business

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”

“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”

The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”

John 21:15-19

Easter is the annual apex of Christian joy. Gathered with the largest crowds we’ll see this year, we shout, “He is risen!” and “He is risen indeed!” We sing praise before celebrating with feasting and fun for the little ones and then …

We go back to work. Back to the same old routine. Back to our unfinished business.

The story of Peter isn’t that different. Easter came. Jesus rose. Peter rejoiced. And when all the excitement died down, Peter went back to work. Back to his unfinished business.

Peter was a fisherman, but his unfinished business wasn’t fishing. He cast his net racked by guilt. In the hour of trial, when the Lord’s life was on the line, Peter denied knowing Jesus thrice.

Peter wasn’t expecting the Lord to come to his workplace that day. Jesus came anyway. He called to Peter from the shore, and Peter swam to him. Then, on the shore, Jesus and Peter talked about this unfinished business. 

It’s tempting to think Peter was right: that the unfinished business was the shame of his denial, that the Lord had to remove that by giving Peter the opportunity to thrice proclaim his love. But the truth is that guilt was removed by the cross. Those things that weighed Peter down came not from the reality of his standing before his Lord, but from his misperception thereof.

The unfinished business the Lord had in mind wasn’t finished on the shore that day. The true unfinished business was the feeding of the lambs, which symbolized Peter’s role in building up the church, caring for the body of believers, and spreading the good news of God’s grace.

Our unfinished business is much the same. Easter behind us, we must realize that the guilt of our sin is gone and that the Lord has work for us to do. It’s the same work he had for Peter: build up the Lord’s church, care for the body of believers, and spread the good news of God’s grace. 

Start an Epidemic

We are drawn to our favorite people, those we like to spend time around. People who make us want to be a better person. This positive attitude and kind and gentle way is attractive. We want to enjoy time with them, we long to be more like them. We seek out ways to be near them. This is contagious living.

Jesus possessed this sort of disposition. Complete strangers drew close to Him. People listened to Him talk and wanted to spend hours in His presence. Even in a crowd of 5,000 or more, Jesus' character, and His teachings grew infectious. Once exposed, they wanted more.

Peter is one of those people who developed this infection. He prayed to his Lord while imprisoned, as did his friends. "So, Peter was kept in prison, but the church prayed to God for him." (Acts 12:5)

On the other side of this coin are those people we dodge. Those people who are disagreeable, who find fault with everything. They relish in, and thrive on, gossip. Once we recognize this personality type, we sidestep these people. Years ago, I was one of them. 

One day, I sensed there must be more to life than my self-absorbed world, and God's perfect timing turned my life around. The Holy Spirit stepped in and introduced me to the missing piece in my life, Christ. I was familiar with who Jesus was, but I didn't care...until I did. 

I became infected. An epidemic began in my life and the only cure--a healthy dose of Jesus and His Word.

Acts 12:5-11

Who Is Jesus?

READ: Matthew 16:13-18

Who is Jesus?

Some say he is a fictional character. Others, that he existed but very little written about him is true. Some think his sayings are true; he was a wise teacher, but not a miracle worker. Still others, that he was a prophet, a way to relationship with God—one of many valid paths.

I say he is who he says he is: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6) And who Peter says he is: “the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” (Matt 16:16)

Ever wonder how so many of Jesus’s followers could hear his words, see his miracles, and still get it wrong?

Ever wonder how so many people in your own life could see the Spirit’s work in you, hear your teaching about Jesus, receive the love you give them from the Father, and still not believe?

Maybe if I studied more apologetics, phrased things in a more culturally relevant way, we think to ourselves. Maybe if I loved better or tricked them into church with a bait-and-switch promise of free food, fun games, or great prizes!

And then we hear the words of Christ and realize that even we still have it wrong. As Jesus said to Peter, “This was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven.” (Matt 16:17)

Have a friend or family member who doesn’t know who Jesus is? Pray for them. Your logic and love cannot save them; only God can save them.

What’s In A Name?

Almost 19 years ago, my husband and I found out we were going to be parents for the first time and had to come up with a name for our son.  We quickly chose a family name that meant “conqueror or victor.”  A strong name would serve him well we thought.

A few years later, we went through the process again, this time for our daughter.  We made list after list, but nothing seemed “just right.”  A baby name book sat on my nightstand for months.  As my due date approached, we finally settled on a name despite the fact it meant “bitter.”  I prayed the name’s meaning would have no real influence on her personality. (It hasn’t.)

In today’s passage – Matthew 16: 15-19 – Jesus informs his disciple Simon that he is Peter.  The Message translation states: “And now I’m going to tell you who you are, really are. You are Peter, a rock. This is the rock on which I will put together my church, a church so expansive with energy that not even the gates of hell will be able to keep it out” (v 18).

Giving Simon the name Peter was very intentional.  Peter means rock and Peter was to truly be the rock on which the church was built.

In Matthew 7: 24-25, Jesus explains that a wise man builds his house on rock, so when it rains and the wind blows, it doesn’t fall because it has a firm foundation. When our faith is built on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ, then we can withstand whatever tries to knock us down.

Jesus, thank you for being the true embodiment of YOUR name’s meaning – Savior.







 

Galatians 2:11-21

Less of Me, More of Jesus

In this scripture Paul opposed Peter (who he sometimes called Cephas)  to his face because he saw him acting in a way that was hypocritical. How often do we see others saying one thing and doing another but do not call them on it? Are there times we talk the talk but don’t walk the walk and hope no one reveals us?

Peter, a proclaimed follower of Christ had been eating with the Gentiles, practicing what Jesus had taught him about nondiscrimination. As Jesus had dined with sinners and the lowly, he expected his apostles to do the same. Upon Paul’s arrival he observed Peter separating from the Gentiles. The other Jews joined him in observance of Jewish law.

Paul stated to Peter in Galatians 2:15-16; “We who are Jews by birth and not ‘Gentile sinners’ know that a man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we too, have to put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified in Christ and not by observing the law, because by observing the law no one will be justified.”

Bottom line I get from this is that religious groups have rules and practices they follow, as they did in the days of the old church. When Jesus came to earth, he offered us a new covenant, which gave us another way to look at our God. We found out that He is an all loving and forgiving God, not one who sits on a throne with a gavel in hand waiting to judge us. He cares for us deeply and wants to be eternally with us all when that time comes. This life we have is not ours but; “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

Jesus came to earth to show us how to live the perfect life of love. Though we will not achieve the sinless status Jesus holds, we can continually strive for it by following the Word of God in our daily life. By holding ourselves accountable not so much for the rituals but our faith in the trinity that we demonstrate through our life journey, will we experience the spirit within us and be enabled to live a life that pleases God.

Lord, I need more of you in my life and less of me and the rituals that sometimes dictate my actions. Jesus,
please help me to live a Christ centered life each and every day with a focus on what you taught us is most important. God help me remember that I obey your word not to gain your approval, but because I have faith in you I am your precious child and already have your approval. Amen!

Read/Listen to Galatians 2:11-21

More of You and Less of Me

Acts 3: 11-16

May we echo the testimony of John the Baptist in John 3 when he says; “He must become greater; I must become less.”

Let us defer to what Peter proclaimed in Acts 3 regarding his healing of the cripple man; “It is Jesus’ name and faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him…”

As the years so quickly race by we learn many things. We grow through pain and adversity. The experiences we have, both positive and negative develop our character.

 John Ortberg, an author, speaker and senior pastor in Menlo Park, California shares great insights about life and obedience to God. As I listened to him speak on the radio the other day, many times he stated: “The main thing God and you get out of life is the person you become.”

It doesn’t necessarily matter if you are in a position of power or quietly doing your job in the back kitchen of a tiny restaurant. It is about obedience to God and putting Him first. Life may be trying and downright impossible some days, but remembering IT IS NOT ABOUT US will lighten our load.

Acknowledge Him in all you do as Proverbs 3:6 tells us, “He will direct your path.”

Colton Dixon, a young contestant on American Idol has reached many young people through his music. Singing with kind of a rock feel and what some might say a wild look, Dixon incorporates true, honest life and scripture into is lyrics. I am in my late 50’s and truly enjoy his music from my heart. Some of the lyrics to More of You:

"I want you and no one else. Empty me of myself.

Until the only thing that's left is...

More of you and less of me, Make me who I’m meant to be.You’re all I want, all I need you're everything. Take it all, I surrender be my king. 

God I choose more of you and less of me."

When we look away from the mirror and gaze upward, we discover great meaning for our lives.

Lord, I pray that as we absorb your will into our beings we become the blessings for others you intend us to be. May we always remember the beauty that lies in letting go of ourselves and focusing on YOU.  

Read/Listen to Acts 3:11-16

God's Message Is For All

Acts 10: 34-38

Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right.”

Peter received the vision for us all and was directed by God to share it. The Lord does not speak specifically to each one of us in a clear dream or visualization. If he did there would be no need for faith. He does however; whisper his will in quiet, gentle ways. Some of us hear but many of us miss out.

God calls us to be still.

He promises us that if we seek him we will find him.

He urges us to listen for his voice.

He encourages us to give our burdens to him.

He modeled the way we are to live upon this earth through Jesus.

He sent the gift of the Holy Spirit to be with us and support us.

God may not send an angel to each of us, but he does speak to us through the Bible and through others who strive to live as Christ did. He communicates his message through music, experiences, trials and joys.

As we live this life we have been graciously given, perhaps we need to slow down, look around, and listen. His great grace is there, and thank heaven, so is his mercy!

Like many Christian performers,Casting Crowns took a verse from the bible  and weaved it into a message through their song Courageous, regarding what the Lord requires of us; Micah 6:8 “To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” 

The courage to live as Jesus did starts in our hearts and homes. Then with God's help, we can take it beyond as we love and accept all others regardless of their religion or status. The message Jesus brought to this earth was not just for Jews. His chosen people are all who believe. 

Song & Video: Courageous

Read/Listen to: Acts 10:34-38

Jesus-is-us

When my kids were young, we often went to toy stores. My kid’s favorite was “Toys-R-Us.”

 

In my usual nit-picking way, I would think to myself, “Toys-R-Us is not toys; they are a store that sells toys.” This does not make sense!

 

Of course, it is a great toy store. They usually had something for my kids. Failing that, they always had something for me!

 

Today’s reading, Acts 4:1-13. Peter and John, two of Jesus “go to” apostles, are before the Sanhedrin. They have just healed a crippled beggar. The Sanhedrin, concerned that a greater power is in their midst, wants to know on what authority they healed the beggar.

 

Peter replies it is Jesus, and in fact, adds that salvation is found in no one other than Jesus.

 

This is the first recorded miracle that the apostles did after Jesus died. It is the first recorded miracle that the church performed after Jesus died.

 

Jesus delegated his mission to Peter and John. He gave some of his powers to Peter and John. More profoundly, however, Jesus delegated his mission and gave some of his powers to his church!

 

Jesus is counting on his church – and that includes you and I!

 

I feel inadequate, to do Jesus work. Fortunately, there are others who can help me and point me in the right direction. However, Jesus is here, right in front of me, in the form of a Bible.

 

More importantly, Jesus is within me.

 

Jesus and the Holy Spirit are not powers external to me, that work on me. St. Paul tells us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Jesus and the Holy Spirit are within me!

 

I may feel inadequate to do Jesus work, but God has given me everything I need in preparation. Better than that, Jesus is within me. I do not have to “go it alone.”

 

Like the toy store, it does not make sense.

 

Nonetheless, Jesus-is-us.

 

Know God

John 17:1-5

Someone drops a name and you say, “Oh sure, I know him.” I’ve done that many times, but what I really mean is “I know of him,” or “I know who he is.”

The Encarta Dictionary has a multitude of definitions for the word know, including words and phrases like; acquainted, become aware of, familiar with, recognize and have information in the mind. The one closest to what knowing God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit means is: to have a thorough understanding of something through experience or study

Though we cannot experience our Lord in the flesh, we can absorb His spirit and become what he wants us to be through consistently striving to grow in Him.

We have been offered the framework for doing just that, through His Word;

 “Be still, and know that I am God.”  Psalm 46:10

“Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:18

“I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.” Proverbs 8:17

"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep an my sheep know me." John 10:14

Getting to truly know and understand someone can be life changing. For example, if you

keep your distance from your superior in the workplace, speculate about his character, 

and talk with others who do the same it leads to distance and mistrust. On the contrary, if 

you pursue a relationship with him, take time to talk with him and try to understand who he 

really is and why he does what he does, you may become a key employee, instrumental in 

carrying out the company’s mission.

With God as well, the key is understanding. It’s all GRACE, yet we cannot understand Him 

unless we consistently attempt to understand just what Grace is and learn God’s nature and 

character as revealed in His works and word.

When we make time to listen to what the Bible has to tell us and humbly open our hearts to 

receive it, the Holy Spirit will assist us with applying it to our lives, offering us peace and 

wisdom to carry on. And one day be glorified in His presence.

Read/Listen to John 17:1-5

Jesus Takes a Victory Lap

It is May, the month that my favorite racing event occurs: The Indianapolis 500.

 

For about 3 hours, thirty-three cars travel at speeds of up to 220 mph, making 200 laps around the 2.5 mile oval. In most years there are accidents. In some years the race is close and in some years a slow pit stop (where the driver fills up his gas tank) costs the driver a race. There is one thing in common with all the races, however.

 

 

The winner travels makes an extra lap – the victory lap.

 

The victory lap gives the car’s engine a chance to cool down a bit. It also is a “just in case” lap, as in “just in case” someone made an error in counting and the winner only went 199 laps. Finally, the extra lap lets the crowd know who the winner is.

 

Today’s reading is 1 Peter 3:18-4:7. Peter tells us who Jesus is and what he did for us. He continues by stating how we ought to live, our response for the love Jesus showed us.

 

Peter says, “He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison…”

 

This is an obscure passage, yet is important to our faith. Jesus descended into hell, in spirit form, before going to heaven, where he had his resurrection, or glorified, body.

 

Jesus lived a perfect life. He survived 40 days of being tempted by Satan in the desert. He taught, he healed and he performed miracles. Most important, he took on all our sins so that we would be credited with none. The perfect lamb was truly a sacrifice for our wrong doings.

 

So what was Jesus doing in hell?

 

He wasn’t preaching the gospel, for we know that once you die your fate is sealed.

 

Jesus defeated death, the grave and Satan. He beat Satan on earth, and here, he defeated Satan on his own turf, hell.

 

Jesus was celebrating his life. He was letting everyone know who the winner was.

 

Jesus was taking a victory lap!

If Jesus, then only Jesus

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “... Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”  Acts 4:8, 12

Salvation is found in no one else?  Oh, come on, Peter!  You’re so narrow-minded!

You know, the whole “narrow-minded” accusation is just that – academic bullying that intimidates us from examining or embracing the truth of a matter.  And I use “academic” loosely, for how broad is the mind that dismisses without examination the possibility that Peter was right?

If the Bible were just a philosophy by which we made our way in the world around us, then perhaps we could lump it in with every other religion and validate them all as elaborate coping mechanisms, lofty thoughts that make us feel good.  But if its claims are true, it is not the narrow mind, but the sound mind that accepts them.

In Leviticus, God told Moses that “the life of a creature is in the blood,” and therefore “it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s sin.” In other words, it takes the sacrifice of one perfect life to pay the penalty for the sin of another.  And this is exactly what Jesus did for us.  Now, if Jesus were human but not God, his death would save no one but himself.  If, however, he were God but not man, there would be no human atonement for us.  But he was fully both, and his death and resurrection means life – abundant and eternal – for us.  How selfless he is!  If Jesus, then only Jesus.

Through Isaiah, God foretold Jesus’ suffering, sacrificial atonement, death and resurrection.  “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wound we are healed.  We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.”  If all sin has been laid upon Jesus, then atonement has been made for all.  There is no other name by which we even can be saved, because it’s already been done.  As it is, we are forgiven and need only to accept this gift of grace in faith.  How loving he must be!  If Jesus, then only Jesus.

To his disciples, Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me.”  If he were just another man, we should not only dismiss Jesus’ bold exclusivity claim, we should repudiate it as non authoritative, dishonest and even a little crazy.  But if he is God, we can, in faith, rely completely on him.  What comfort we have!  If Jesus, then only Jesus.

We needn’t be intimidated or misled by hollow accusations.  Nor should we hold grudges against those who utter them, for Jesus atoned for the sins of all – theirs and ours.

Instead, take courage!  Jesus is who he says he is.  He has done what he said he would do for a world he loves.  Freedom is ours, a gift.  And that’s a good thing.

Jesus.  Only Jesus.

[Click here for the daily reading in Acts 4:1-14.]

He Is Risen!

John 20:1-18

HE IS RISEN INDEED!

Unlike Matthew, Mark and Luke’s gospel readings on Jesus’ resurrection, focusing on the angelic appearance of the angels and Jesus, John approached the story of the empty tomb from the human response.

Mary Magdalene went to the tomb while it was still dark and found the stone removed from the entrance. She went immediately to the disciples to tell them.

John and Peter raced to the tomb. John arrived first, stopped, peered inside but did not go in. Peter flew right past John and entered the tomb.  Perhaps Peter was anxious about what Jesus would think of him after his betrayal and wanted to make things right. John responded quite differently. He paused outside of the tomb, possibly reflecting on all that had happened and just what it might mean. John 20:9 (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)

Mary Magdalene, though she was the first one there before sunrise and remained after the disciples had gone, did not grasp the meaning of the empty tomb. Though told by two angels and Jesus himself she did not comprehend. Finally when Jesus called her by name she believed, listened to Him, and left to deliver His message to the disciples.

We have many like Peter in our churches, anxious about being there because of past wrongs, or fearful of judgment from others and the Lord. There are others similar to John, keeping their emotions to themselves. Those not so anxious who have a good relationship with God and know they are beloved by Him. Then there are those like Mary, stuck in their faith, though they hear the Good News, are unable to internalize it because of bad things that have happened in their lives.

All of us have been lost no matter where we are now in our faith journey. Think back to when you began a serious walk with the Lord. Was there someone beside you, or in the background cheering you on and praying for you? Do you know someone who is hiding from God or has so much baggage from their past they are unable to feel his love?

Consider this Easter a new beginning for them. With your love and guidance they may finally be able to realize the promise that awaits them in Jesus’ death and resurrection!  Help another come alive in Christ. What an amazing gift!

Read/Listen to John 20:1-18

Mark 12:28-34

One of the teachers of the law inquired of Jesus which of the commandments was the most important. Jesus replied;

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this; Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.”

In Deuteronomy 6, Moses spelled out God’s message with similar words, and instructed the people of Israel to obey God, being careful to show His character to the world.

How do we carry on with only one focus? The Lord has given us with so many other responsibilities: children, homes, careers, finances, spouses, extended family, friends, the earth………

We use the gifts we have been blessed with, and as we rely on the strength of the Holy Spirit to be revealed through our weakness, it all comes together as it is meant to be!

1^st Peter 4:10 reminds us; “Each one should use whatever gifts he has received  to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.”

It is our job to be creative in our approach to spreading the good news. To use our God given gifts and model for the world what is in our hearts. God already knows.

We are not expected to preach if our gift is not preaching, however our actions will speak volumes about who we are and whom we serve. What are your gifts?

We are to become who we were created to be, and strive to live as our Lord commanded. We will never reach perfection, but we can surely die trying. What a way to go!  

Repent. Remember. React.

Repentance is a major sub-theme in the Bible. Peter told people that to be saved they needed to, “Repent and be baptized.” John the Baptist told people to, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.”

Peter and John were speaking to unbelievers. Believers, too, have a need to repent. We confess and ask for (and get) forgiveness in our church services, and many Christians repent of their sins on a regular, if not daily, basis.

My Webster’s Dictionary says repentance is, “Remorse or contrition for past conduct or sin.” I suppose that is accurate, but today’s reading, Zechariah 12:10-14, adds much depth to that definition.

The Bible is a story of Man disobeying God. No person can do what God demands. We are sinners because of our actions, and because we descended from sinners. God demands a sacrifice for our sin. In fact, we deserve death. Yet, because God loves us, Jesus was that sacrifice, so that we might live.

Zechariah prophesies the impact of Jesus' death on the Christian Church (Jerusalem). The entire church will mourn. It will mourn like parents mourn the death of an only child. It will mourn like Israel mourned the death of King Josiah (who died in the plain of Megiddo).  Everyone will mourn, and the mourning  will be deep.

Jesus, a man with the same human emotions as you and I, died for our sins. One could even say that Jesus died because of our sins. Realizing that should make us mourn deeply, as Zechariah suggested.

Yet repentance yields fruit. We are given Jesus’ Spirit and asked to carry out his mission. We live with Jesus here on Earth and we will live with him after our earthly death.

Repent of our sins. Remember our savior. React and do his work.

The Council at Jerusalem Then and Now

Acts 15: 1-21

 We have heard many times how the Lord accepts everyone into his kingdom, provided they love Him and have faith in him. The truth is, just as back in the days of Paul; people judge others, set limits, and create man made guidelines to be followed rather than simply allowing God to be the ultimate judge. It is as though we have established our own Council at Jerusalem right here, right now. Christ speaks of His burden being light and His yoke easy, yet we attempt to make this journey of faith a difficult and challenging one by enlisting our own criteria for entering into eternal life.

The council in Jerusalem attempted to weight down the Gentiles who were becoming sincere believers by insisting they adhere to Jewish laws. Paul, Barnabas, and the apostles and elders met to consider their claims. What they concluded was eloquently proclaimed by Peter in Acts 15: 6-11, “Brothers, you know that some time ago God made a choice among you that the Gentiles might hear from my lips the message of the gospel and believe. God, who knows the heart, showed that He accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as He did to us. He made no distinction between us and them, for He purified their hearts by faith. Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke that neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear? No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.”

God knows the heart.

God sent the Holy Spirit to be with us all.

God’s commands are straight forward, there are ten of them.

God welcomes us all into His heavenly kingdom.........Alleluia! 

Read/Listen to Acts 15: 1-21

Change

I was once a manager in an organization that was undergoing significant change. Everybody had to think differently about their jobs and, in fact, the organization itself had to think about its purpose in the larger corporation.

New organizational goals were developed. People’s jobs were changed to align with the new organizational goals. Stated differently, people did what the organization needed them to do instead of doing things the old, comfortable, way. It was a trying time for many people. Nobody likes change.

Today’s story, Acts 10:9-20, is a story about change. In a vision, God told Peter that the customs of the Gentiles should not be a barrier to him as he preached the Gospel to them. In fact, he was to follow some of their customs to better enable God’s word to reach their hearts.

The Jews developed customs based on the Laws God had given them. The Gentiles, on the other hand developed customs of a “worldly” nature.  Historically, the Jews and the Gentiles tolerated each other, but for the most part they kept their distance.  It was not  permissible for a Jew to eat with a Gentile.

God told Peter he was to eat with the Gentiles. You can imagine how difficult this was to him and how uncomfortable he must have felt at first. Yet Peter did as he was told so that the Good News of Jesus Christ could reach the Gentiles.

Congregations have the responsibility to proclaim the Gospel to its local community. Congregations engage its members to get this critical assignment done. Sometimes we are asked to do things that, like Peter, we are not entirely comfortable doing.

Peter put his feelings aside to further God’s Kingdom. We can follow Peter’s example and proclaim the Gospel, even if means doing something differently.

We carry out Jesus’ work because of his love for us. We do it even if we have to change.

We do it even if we don’t like change.

The commanding officer of my soul

“Having brought the apostles, they made them appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. ‘We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name’ he said.... Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than men!’” Acts 5:28-29

(To see today's entire text – Acts 5:27-32 – click here.)

Stop and think ... when is the last time you heard the word, “obey,” in conversation?

“Obey” is a tough notion for us, a concept progressively out of favor. Offensive ... humiliating ... oppressive ... that’s how our world sees it. Passé, really. Irrelevant. Ludicrous! For “obey” suggests that at least some aspect of our being is subject to the will of someone else; it leaves us something short of “I am the master of my fate...”¹  And ... we ... don't ... like it!

Instead, our human nature is a place where “I am the captain of my soul,”¹ and where “Feeling” ranks as first lieutenant. We rely on its counsel above all others, even when Feeling is openly insubordinate to our commanding officer, Truth.

There’s an interesting example in Mark 1:40-45. One day, Jesus cured a man from leprosy and then, curiously, “sent him away with a strong warning: ‘See that you don’t tell this to anyone.’” Instead, the man – understandably excited – “went out and began to talk freely, spreading the news.” Jesus had said “don't tell,” but this man told, his feelings dissuading him from the command of the One who had authority even over leprosy! And we might feel our way along to the leper’s justification! After all, spreading the news is a good thing, isn’t it? But there were lasting consequences to his disobedience that day: “As a result, Jesus could no longer enter a town openly but stayed outside in lonely places.”

Peter and the apostles were also under orders, two sets of them, actually. Jesus had told them to go out and make disciples, baptizing them and teaching them all he had commanded. The religious leader’s imperative, however, was the opposite, charging them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus (see Acts 4:18). And now the apostles stood before the high priest and the Sanhedrin because they had obeyed the higher authority – the commanding officer – on the matter. “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name...” the rulers complained. The apostles’ response? “We must obey God rather than men!” And their obedience had produced results, for the Sanhedrin even told them, “... you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching ...” (Not bad!)

Both the leper in the first instance and the apostles in the second were under commands from Jesus. And being human, they all had strong feelings ... they were all enthusiastic. The difference was that the apostles, at least in this case, obeyed, aligning their will and their passion under the authority of Jesus, who is Truth.

Likely, we’ve all experienced both scenarios, frustrated at times and buoyed at others. So how do we consistently subject our feelings to God's truth and his authority? We stay close to him, talking with him in prayer and listening to him through his word. Then when we recognize that familiar voice of Christ in us, ours is simply to say, "yes." Day by day; moment by moment.

For as Peter told the Sanhedrin, God gives his Holy Spirit to those who obey him. And that includes us.

¹ From "Invictus" by William Ernest Henley