There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. (Matthew 28.2-4)
The angel of the Lord came down and rolled back the stone to reveal an empty grave. This was not done to let Jesus out. He was already gone! This was done to let the women – and later the men – in to see that Jesus was gone.
As the women approached the tomb, I’m sure they thought it was their good fortune that the stone had been moved so that they could tend to the dead body of their friend. They did not dream that it had been moved so that they might be the first to witness the greatest event in the history of the world.
How often do I choose one of these two lesser explanations when God moves stones in my life?
“This stone” has been moved so that Jesus can come out and be victorious over death.
“This stone” has been moved so that I can tend to the dead body of Jesus.
Option 1 is unsatisfactory because Jesus is already out! He has already been victorious over whatever stone I face. Option 2 is even worse! God doesn’t want us to deal in death. He doesn’t move stones so that I can dress the wounds of Jesus. Jesus is risen!
When faced with a stone in our lives, God wants us to choose the best option of all:
“This stone” has been rolled away for me, but not so that I can offer ineffective and futile ministrations to the dead body of Jesus. It has been rolled away so that I can see and by seeing believe and by believing participate in the miraculous power of the living Jesus – The Power of the Resurrection!
Showing posts with label Matthew. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Matthew. Show all posts
Monday, February 9, 2009
Friday, February 6, 2009
Why Move the Stone?
“Take a guard,” Pilate answered. “Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how” (Matthew 27.65).
When Jesus was crucified and buried, the chief priests and Pharisees requested that Pilate – the Roman governor – seal the tomb. Their purpose was not to keep Jesus in – for neither Pilate nor the leaders of the Jews had any faith that Jesus would come out. Their purpose, rather, was to keep the disciples out.
Likewise, God removed the stone - not to let Jesus out, but to let the witnesses in!
And note this: they made it secure against men – to keep us out. But they didn’t know how to make it secure against God – to keep Jesus in. They were guarding the outside. God was working on the inside! No guard would be posted there where Jesus was raised from the dead. No guard could be posted that had the ability to prevent this miracle of God on the inside.
The Enemy of life, along with the skeptics and antagonists to resurrection power, tries to seal up the tomb from the outside to keep Jesus’ disciples from telling people of the hope and power of the gospel: Christ has indeed been raised from the dead! But, the miracle of God takes place on the inside. No seal, no guard, no security, no power, no law passed by congress, and no executive order can keep that life from bursting forth in glorious witness!
See what the disciples testified to on Pentecost: “God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact” (Acts 2.38). See how the authorities could not coerce them to be silent: “Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than men! The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead—whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel. We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him” Acts 5.29-32.
Do not try to prevent the seal on the outside. Let the power of God, the power of the resurrection, bring forth life from within you. The life of Jesus will come forth; it will not have to be dragged out. Then, God will remove the stone and all will see that death has lost its hold on your Savior. Death has lost its hold on you.
When Jesus was crucified and buried, the chief priests and Pharisees requested that Pilate – the Roman governor – seal the tomb. Their purpose was not to keep Jesus in – for neither Pilate nor the leaders of the Jews had any faith that Jesus would come out. Their purpose, rather, was to keep the disciples out.
Likewise, God removed the stone - not to let Jesus out, but to let the witnesses in!
And note this: they made it secure against men – to keep us out. But they didn’t know how to make it secure against God – to keep Jesus in. They were guarding the outside. God was working on the inside! No guard would be posted there where Jesus was raised from the dead. No guard could be posted that had the ability to prevent this miracle of God on the inside.
The Enemy of life, along with the skeptics and antagonists to resurrection power, tries to seal up the tomb from the outside to keep Jesus’ disciples from telling people of the hope and power of the gospel: Christ has indeed been raised from the dead! But, the miracle of God takes place on the inside. No seal, no guard, no security, no power, no law passed by congress, and no executive order can keep that life from bursting forth in glorious witness!
See what the disciples testified to on Pentecost: “God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact” (Acts 2.38). See how the authorities could not coerce them to be silent: “Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than men! The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead—whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel. We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him” Acts 5.29-32.
Do not try to prevent the seal on the outside. Let the power of God, the power of the resurrection, bring forth life from within you. The life of Jesus will come forth; it will not have to be dragged out. Then, God will remove the stone and all will see that death has lost its hold on your Savior. Death has lost its hold on you.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Put Your Sword Away
When Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane, one of his followers drew a sword to defend the Lord. Jesus told him, “Put your sword back in its place… for all who draw the sword will die by the sword” (Matthew 26.52).
In another place, Jesus said, “Do not judge or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Matthew 7.1-2).
Elsewhere, the Apostle Paul wrote, “Do not be deceived; God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows” (Gal 6.7). He also instructed the church, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil” (Romans 12.17).
From these verses and others, it would seem that we should be very careful about our “weapons of choice.” The weapons we use will be used against us. Some people act as though they have been given divine imperative to use ungodly means in the “defense” of the Christ and his church, justifying hateful and hurtful behavior by citing the “rightness” of their cause. To those, Christ would say: Put your sword away. I can take care of myself. If need be I can even call on the angels of heaven to come to my rescue (Matthew 26.53). I don’t need you to use “strange fire” to defend my cause.
I think I’ll choose:
In another place, Jesus said, “Do not judge or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Matthew 7.1-2).
Elsewhere, the Apostle Paul wrote, “Do not be deceived; God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows” (Gal 6.7). He also instructed the church, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil” (Romans 12.17).
From these verses and others, it would seem that we should be very careful about our “weapons of choice.” The weapons we use will be used against us. Some people act as though they have been given divine imperative to use ungodly means in the “defense” of the Christ and his church, justifying hateful and hurtful behavior by citing the “rightness” of their cause. To those, Christ would say: Put your sword away. I can take care of myself. If need be I can even call on the angels of heaven to come to my rescue (Matthew 26.53). I don’t need you to use “strange fire” to defend my cause.
I think I’ll choose:
- Love
- Prayer
- Kindness
- Forgiveness
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Two Talent Man
“Each according to his ability…” (Matthew 25.15)
The story Jesus tells here in Matthew is about the kingdom of heaven. He says the kingdom is like an investor who entrusts resources (“talents” or weights of money) to three different employees to see what they can and will make happen with these resources:
There is nothing disgraceful about being in any of those positions. We can grow from being a one-talent person to being a two-talent person to being a five-talent person in the work of the Kingdom. The two-talent man used it all and became a four-talent man. The five-talent man used it all and became a ten-talent man. He actually became an eleven-talent man because the investor decided to use him to “pick up the slack,” giving him the resources and responsibilities of the one-talent man. There is no doubt that the investor in this story thought that the one-talent man had the ability to become a two-talent man. But, the one-talent man looked at the others, grew jealous, and made bad decisions that lead to losing out entirely.
I was surprised by what came to my mind when I read that story: "I want to be a two-talent man!" I, obviously, don’t want to be a one-talent man who buries my talent, refusing to use it in the work of the Master. What was surprising, however, was that I didn’t immediately ask to be a five-talent man. That's kind of my nature. I guess I saw what happened to him: an already busy and productive man had to pick up the slack! So, what about two talents – if I could ask for those – seemed like a good goal. I prayed the following:
Today, Lord, help me to see and develop and plan to use my two talents according to my ability. May I use my talents for your glory and for the growth and encouragement of those around me.
The story Jesus tells here in Matthew is about the kingdom of heaven. He says the kingdom is like an investor who entrusts resources (“talents” or weights of money) to three different employees to see what they can and will make happen with these resources:
- There was a five-talent man, who earned five more talents.
- There was a two-talent man who earned two more talents.
- And finally there was a one-talent man who did nothing to utilize and multiply the resources.
There is nothing disgraceful about being in any of those positions. We can grow from being a one-talent person to being a two-talent person to being a five-talent person in the work of the Kingdom. The two-talent man used it all and became a four-talent man. The five-talent man used it all and became a ten-talent man. He actually became an eleven-talent man because the investor decided to use him to “pick up the slack,” giving him the resources and responsibilities of the one-talent man. There is no doubt that the investor in this story thought that the one-talent man had the ability to become a two-talent man. But, the one-talent man looked at the others, grew jealous, and made bad decisions that lead to losing out entirely.
I was surprised by what came to my mind when I read that story: "I want to be a two-talent man!" I, obviously, don’t want to be a one-talent man who buries my talent, refusing to use it in the work of the Master. What was surprising, however, was that I didn’t immediately ask to be a five-talent man. That's kind of my nature. I guess I saw what happened to him: an already busy and productive man had to pick up the slack! So, what about two talents – if I could ask for those – seemed like a good goal. I prayed the following:
Today, Lord, help me to see and develop and plan to use my two talents according to my ability. May I use my talents for your glory and for the growth and encouragement of those around me.
You may wish to pray a similar prayer.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Are You Ready?
As I was reading Matthew 24, I saw something in a way that I had never seen it before. It is something worth further study and contemplation. In verses 39b-41, Jesus says, “That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.”
I always read this as a taking away of Christians at the rapture. But, if you look closely at the context, something interesting comes to light: “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away” (Matthew 24. 37-39a, emphasis mine).
In this context, Jesus is speaking of the taking away in judgment and punishment. That is clear also by what follows through the end of chapter 24. Also, we see in the first part of chapter 24 that the church – the elect – has to go through great distress. The question I asked myself when I read this is this: “Am I counting on the rapture to remove me from great distress, or am I ready – as a part of the elect – to make it through great distress?” It is something to think about.
Are you ready?
I always read this as a taking away of Christians at the rapture. But, if you look closely at the context, something interesting comes to light: “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away” (Matthew 24. 37-39a, emphasis mine).
In this context, Jesus is speaking of the taking away in judgment and punishment. That is clear also by what follows through the end of chapter 24. Also, we see in the first part of chapter 24 that the church – the elect – has to go through great distress. The question I asked myself when I read this is this: “Am I counting on the rapture to remove me from great distress, or am I ready – as a part of the elect – to make it through great distress?” It is something to think about.
Are you ready?
Monday, February 2, 2009
Gold or Brass?
Today's question is more important that "Paper or plastic?" It is "Gold or brass?"
I’ve learned to pay attention when God repeats himself to me. In today’s Bible readings the Lord reinforced the idea of humility to me in two ways.
In addition to reading the 23rd chapter from the gospel of Matthew, I also read 2 Chronicles 12 and the story of
In the 23rd chapter of Matthew, Jesus excoriates the Pharisees and the teachers of the law who loved the praise of men. Of them, Jesus said, “Everything they do is done for men to see.” They cared more about the appearance of godliness than the actual possession of it in their lives. The seven woes that follow in Matthew 23 are pronounced on the Pharisees and teachers of the law because they settled for brass instead of gold.
When I read Matthew 23, I ask myself, “Am I settling for brass shields when I could have gold?” Look closely at the seven woes in Matthew 23 and see if you are settling for…
- The brass of exclusion vs. the gold of inclusion?
- The brass of activity vs. the gold of integrity?
- The brass of formal rituals vs. the gold of God’s presence?
- The brass of the good vs. the gold of the best?
- The brass of exterior righteousness vs. the gold of interior righteousness?
- The brass of the cup vs. the gold of the contents?
- The brass of arrogance vs. the gold of repentance?
May you never settle for brass! May I never settle for brass! But, may we humble ourselves and allow God to be the shield of gold around us!
“For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23.12).
Friday, January 30, 2009
I Am Alive!
When Jesus said, “[God] is not the God of the dead but of the living” (Matthew 22.32), he was affirming the belief in the resurrection of the dead. But also in that statement, a wonderful truth came to me personally. He is my God; he is the God of the living: therefore, I am alive!
Hallelujah! We are alive! In Christ we have been made alive. He gives us life to the full. In the land of the dying, we live! Death has no more dominion over us.
Too often we live as though our sin or circumstances have the final word in our lives. And eventually, of course, our circumstances lead to death. But, we don’t have to live that way. We are children of life!
Jesus once said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" (John 11.24b-26)
Do you believe this? Can you say, “God you are my God, so I am alive. Nothing can take away my life in you.”?
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Do You WANT to Be a Donkey?
Yesterday, the scripture in Matthew 20 confronted us with the question, “So, you want to be great?” The scripture today reinforced that in my mind with a graphic albeit coarse image. When Jesus – the King of kings – went into Jerusalem, lauded by the crowds, he was riding on the back of donkey – a lowly beast of burden.
Jesus had told the disciples to “go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, tell him that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.” Matthew continues: “The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. They brought the donkey and the colt, placed their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat on them” (Matthew 21.2-3, 6-7).
I know this represented the fulfillment of prophecy (Isaiah 62.11 and Zechariah 9.9) and indicated that Jesus was the expected messiah. I know that sometimes ancient rulers would ride on a donkey signifying times of peace. What struck me, however, were not these latent indicators of greatness; rather what struck me was the blatant picture of humbleness. Jesus came into Jerusalem on a donkey.
That prompted this prayer in me:
“Lord, I just want to be like that donkey and her colt: untied and brought to Jesus. May I then bear Jesus to a new place. May it be said of me, ‘The Lord needs him.’ And, Lord, may I be sent right away!
“Here I am, Lord Jesus! Ready to bear you to a new place of praise! You will receive all the attention, all the glory, all the praise. I only ask that I bear you and your good news. May I bring you to the awareness of a people looking for hope.”
Jesus had told the disciples to “go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, tell him that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.” Matthew continues: “The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. They brought the donkey and the colt, placed their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat on them” (Matthew 21.2-3, 6-7).
I know this represented the fulfillment of prophecy (Isaiah 62.11 and Zechariah 9.9) and indicated that Jesus was the expected messiah. I know that sometimes ancient rulers would ride on a donkey signifying times of peace. What struck me, however, were not these latent indicators of greatness; rather what struck me was the blatant picture of humbleness. Jesus came into Jerusalem on a donkey.
That prompted this prayer in me:
“Lord, I just want to be like that donkey and her colt: untied and brought to Jesus. May I then bear Jesus to a new place. May it be said of me, ‘The Lord needs him.’ And, Lord, may I be sent right away!
“Here I am, Lord Jesus! Ready to bear you to a new place of praise! You will receive all the attention, all the glory, all the praise. I only ask that I bear you and your good news. May I bring you to the awareness of a people looking for hope.”
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
So, You Want to Be Great...
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave – just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20.26-28).
As I read this verse, the Holy Spirit probed me: “So, you want to be great? If so, become a servant. Is that what you want?”
May I share with you my response?
"Lord, yes, I want to become great, but my definition of greatness is all wrong. I define it as privilege and accolades and skills and expertise and acknowledgement.
"Take me to your heavenly thesaurus. Lord, help me to see that greatness among God’s people is...
As I read this verse, the Holy Spirit probed me: “So, you want to be great? If so, become a servant. Is that what you want?”
May I share with you my response?
"Lord, yes, I want to become great, but my definition of greatness is all wrong. I define it as privilege and accolades and skills and expertise and acknowledgement.
"Take me to your heavenly thesaurus. Lord, help me to see that greatness among God’s people is...
- Service
- Humility
- Surrender
- Brokenness
- Love
- Looking after the interests of others
"Yes, I want to be like Jesus! You came to serve and to give your life a ransom for many. Lord, I give my life to serving others so that they may find true life. Today, help me to answer the question – to honestly answer the question – 'Am I willing to serve God without pay, in an obscure place, with no guarantees, in God’s way, with God’s values?'
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139.23-24).
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
A Pet Nana
Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there (Matthew 19.13-15).
The next scene in Matthew 19 is one of a rich young man trying desperately to impress Jesus with his personal righteousness (and perhaps his personal wealth). Jesus was not impressed. He had just said, “The kingdom belongs to such as these” – to those who become like children!
We try to be so sophisticated, but God is not impressed. Who are we trying to impress?
May God restore the wonder of childhood in me. Recently I spent a week with my granddaughter, Avery. Often in those days together, I marveled at how she delighted in the smallest of things. I rejoiced as I watched her leading her Nana around the house by the finger. (I teased my wife that Avery had a “pet Nana” because she was on a leash going wherever Avery led her…) She wasn’t doing great and awesome things, nor was her Nana. They were just being together. And, as far as I could judge, they were both having the time of their lives!
My prayer is that I might be more like Avery. Like her, may I delight in the outstretched hand of God.
And so, my prayer today is: “Reach out your hand to me, O Jesus! Place your hands on me and bless me this morning with love, delight, wonder, joy, faith, trust, laughter and resilience! I love you, Lord! And, Lord, help me to see children – all children, not just my own – as you do. And in seeing them, help me to include them and to become like them in your presence. Amen”
The next scene in Matthew 19 is one of a rich young man trying desperately to impress Jesus with his personal righteousness (and perhaps his personal wealth). Jesus was not impressed. He had just said, “The kingdom belongs to such as these” – to those who become like children!
We try to be so sophisticated, but God is not impressed. Who are we trying to impress?
May God restore the wonder of childhood in me. Recently I spent a week with my granddaughter, Avery. Often in those days together, I marveled at how she delighted in the smallest of things. I rejoiced as I watched her leading her Nana around the house by the finger. (I teased my wife that Avery had a “pet Nana” because she was on a leash going wherever Avery led her…) She wasn’t doing great and awesome things, nor was her Nana. They were just being together. And, as far as I could judge, they were both having the time of their lives!
My prayer is that I might be more like Avery. Like her, may I delight in the outstretched hand of God.
And so, my prayer today is: “Reach out your hand to me, O Jesus! Place your hands on me and bless me this morning with love, delight, wonder, joy, faith, trust, laughter and resilience! I love you, Lord! And, Lord, help me to see children – all children, not just my own – as you do. And in seeing them, help me to include them and to become like them in your presence. Amen”
Monday, January 26, 2009
God Is Decentralizing!
In Matthew 18.18, Jesus made a startling statement to his disciples:
“Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be
loosed in heaven.”
Wow! I have to ask myself, “What am I loosing and what am I binding on earth?” According to the words of Jesus, that very thing will be loosed and bound in heaven. God wants to partner with me, not only in the accomplishing of his purposes on earth, but also in the actual willing of his purposes in heaven.
I’ve just finished reading a book by organizational specialist, Ichak Adizes. In this book, called Corporate Lifecycles, Adizes distinguishes between delegation and decentralization. When tasks are assigned and performed “down the ladder,” that is delegation. When strategic decisions are assigned and made “down the ladder,” that is decentralization.
Think about the Great Commission in Matthew 28.18-20:
"Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
In the Great Commission, we see that God has given us the task of making disciples. That is delegation. But here in Matthew 18.18, Jesus appears to be actually decentralizing strategic decisions. He wants us to will and decide and participate in the formation of divine purpose. He invites us to be partners with him in the shaping of history! I say again, “WOW!”
What are you binding or loosing on earth? That is what are you binding or loosing in heaven! It is an awe-inspiring offer, a daunting prospect. Eternity will be formed by our obedience, by our wills in conformity with God’s heavenly will. So, pray! Believe! Act!
Bind! Loose!
“Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be
loosed in heaven.”
Wow! I have to ask myself, “What am I loosing and what am I binding on earth?” According to the words of Jesus, that very thing will be loosed and bound in heaven. God wants to partner with me, not only in the accomplishing of his purposes on earth, but also in the actual willing of his purposes in heaven.
I’ve just finished reading a book by organizational specialist, Ichak Adizes. In this book, called Corporate Lifecycles, Adizes distinguishes between delegation and decentralization. When tasks are assigned and performed “down the ladder,” that is delegation. When strategic decisions are assigned and made “down the ladder,” that is decentralization.
Think about the Great Commission in Matthew 28.18-20:
"Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
In the Great Commission, we see that God has given us the task of making disciples. That is delegation. But here in Matthew 18.18, Jesus appears to be actually decentralizing strategic decisions. He wants us to will and decide and participate in the formation of divine purpose. He invites us to be partners with him in the shaping of history! I say again, “WOW!”
What are you binding or loosing on earth? That is what are you binding or loosing in heaven! It is an awe-inspiring offer, a daunting prospect. Eternity will be formed by our obedience, by our wills in conformity with God’s heavenly will. So, pray! Believe! Act!
Bind! Loose!
Friday, January 23, 2009
A Cure for Contempt
Jesus spoke about John the Baptist as the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy that Elijah would precede the coming of the Day of the Lord (Malachi 4.5-6): “To be sure, Elijah comes and will restore all things. But I tell you, Elijah has already come and they did not recognize him, but have done to him everything they wished. In the same way the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist (Matthew 17.11-13).
Have you ever felt unappreciated? John the Baptist felt that, and more. John came to prepare the people for the coming of Messiah, but he was rejected by the politically powerful and rigidly religious.
If you ever experience rejection or persecution, remember the Baptist. Also remember Jesus who suffered at their hands as well. Like the Baptist’s sufferings, your suffering has meaning as it points to a greater suffering. – God on a cross. So Jesus’ sacrifice makes my suffering more bearable, more lustrous, more eternally significant.
When you are unappreciated, rejected or even persecuted, pray this prayer: “Lord, I am glad I can join you in suffering. When I am not glad in suffering, please make me so. Amen.”
Have you ever felt unappreciated? John the Baptist felt that, and more. John came to prepare the people for the coming of Messiah, but he was rejected by the politically powerful and rigidly religious.
If you ever experience rejection or persecution, remember the Baptist. Also remember Jesus who suffered at their hands as well. Like the Baptist’s sufferings, your suffering has meaning as it points to a greater suffering. – God on a cross. So Jesus’ sacrifice makes my suffering more bearable, more lustrous, more eternally significant.
When you are unappreciated, rejected or even persecuted, pray this prayer: “Lord, I am glad I can join you in suffering. When I am not glad in suffering, please make me so. Amen.”
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Follow the Signs
Ever feel like you need a sign from God? The Pharisees and Sadducees (religious leaders of their day) felt that they did. They asked Jesus for a sign from heaven. Jesus said to them that they weren’t going to be given any other sign than the one they already had:
"When evening comes, you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,' and in the morning, 'Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah." (Matthew 16.2-4)
I’ve been struggling lately with God’s direction for my life and ministry. I’ve wanted the Lord to give me a sign of some sort. But, when I read this, I prayed:
“Lord, I don’t need a sign. I will interpret the times in my life:
· I can be confident that it’s harvest time: Jesus you have said the fields are ripe for harvest…
· You have given me certain interest and strengths that will match the needs of the place where I will serve.
· My family is at a particular stage in life and I need to pay attention to where we are in this time.
· My faith tells me that God will be with me wherever I go as long as I am following him, so no job is too big nor is any place too small for me.
· My friends and ministry mentors give me direction and response based on what they see as signs in my own life and development.
· I have great confidence in what I am feeling within for the Bible says that I have the mind of Christ!
“Lord, help me not to misinterpret, for a red sky can mean storms or fair weather depending on the time of the day. I need all the information, but I can make decisions based on the times of my life for God gives me wisdom!”
Jesus refers to the sign of Jonah. He had already discussed this sign with the Pharisees and teachers of the law when they had previously demanded a sign from him (Matthew 12.38ff). At that time, Jesus had explained to them the sign of Jonah: Jonah was three days in the belly of a huge fish and the Son of Man will be three days in the heart of the earth. This, of course refers to the death and burial of Jesus, his cross. That sign to which Jesus refers reminded me of something I read long ago. Excuse me, for the paraphrase, but it went something like this: “Whenever I come to a fork in the road and have to choose between two ways, I try to choose the way upon which the shadow of the cross falls.” Dwell on that for a while.
Looking for a sign? Interpret the times and choose the way of the cross!
"When evening comes, you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,' and in the morning, 'Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah." (Matthew 16.2-4)
I’ve been struggling lately with God’s direction for my life and ministry. I’ve wanted the Lord to give me a sign of some sort. But, when I read this, I prayed:
“Lord, I don’t need a sign. I will interpret the times in my life:
· I can be confident that it’s harvest time: Jesus you have said the fields are ripe for harvest…
· You have given me certain interest and strengths that will match the needs of the place where I will serve.
· My family is at a particular stage in life and I need to pay attention to where we are in this time.
· My faith tells me that God will be with me wherever I go as long as I am following him, so no job is too big nor is any place too small for me.
· My friends and ministry mentors give me direction and response based on what they see as signs in my own life and development.
· I have great confidence in what I am feeling within for the Bible says that I have the mind of Christ!
“Lord, help me not to misinterpret, for a red sky can mean storms or fair weather depending on the time of the day. I need all the information, but I can make decisions based on the times of my life for God gives me wisdom!”
Jesus refers to the sign of Jonah. He had already discussed this sign with the Pharisees and teachers of the law when they had previously demanded a sign from him (Matthew 12.38ff). At that time, Jesus had explained to them the sign of Jonah: Jonah was three days in the belly of a huge fish and the Son of Man will be three days in the heart of the earth. This, of course refers to the death and burial of Jesus, his cross. That sign to which Jesus refers reminded me of something I read long ago. Excuse me, for the paraphrase, but it went something like this: “Whenever I come to a fork in the road and have to choose between two ways, I try to choose the way upon which the shadow of the cross falls.” Dwell on that for a while.
Looking for a sign? Interpret the times and choose the way of the cross!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Out of Character?
As I read Matthew 15, I was struck by the harsh words of Jesus concerning the Pharisees and teachers of the law. These men had come to Jesus to complain that his disciples were breaking the tradition of the elders. Jesus responded by asking them, in essence, why they thought their traditions were more important than God’s commands. They didn’t like that!
Later, Jesus’ followers told him that the Pharisees and teachers of the law were offended. Jesus responded: "Every plant that my Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots. Leave them. They are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit" (vv. 13-14).
Don’t these words seem out of character for Christ’s disposition toward people? What was there about these Pharisees and teachers of the law that would cause Jesus to say something like this? I thought of several things:
I learn two things from this incident:
1. Don’t be a blind man! We are all leaders, and we need to keep our eyes on Jesus and reflect his attitude. Make sure you are leading people toward God!
2. But also, don’t be alarmed if there are “religious people” with whom you must part ways. Of course, we shouldn’t do it too readily and for the wrong reasons. Such a decision can’t be about you, but must be about others and the Kingdom.
Traditions are beautiful and meaningful. I’m thankful for them. But, let’s keep focused on pleasing God and following his commands.
May God bless you with the warmth of his love on this cold winter morning!
Later, Jesus’ followers told him that the Pharisees and teachers of the law were offended. Jesus responded: "Every plant that my Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots. Leave them. They are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit" (vv. 13-14).
Don’t these words seem out of character for Christ’s disposition toward people? What was there about these Pharisees and teachers of the law that would cause Jesus to say something like this? I thought of several things:
- They were leaders – entrusted to give direction to people.
- They had shown themselves uninterested in Jesus’ message of love and acceptance.
- They thought themselves better than those they were to serve.
- They were more concerned with their traditions than with the needs of people and bringing them to God.
I learn two things from this incident:
1. Don’t be a blind man! We are all leaders, and we need to keep our eyes on Jesus and reflect his attitude. Make sure you are leading people toward God!
2. But also, don’t be alarmed if there are “religious people” with whom you must part ways. Of course, we shouldn’t do it too readily and for the wrong reasons. Such a decision can’t be about you, but must be about others and the Kingdom.
Traditions are beautiful and meaningful. I’m thankful for them. But, let’s keep focused on pleasing God and following his commands.
May God bless you with the warmth of his love on this cold winter morning!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Overcoming
When I read Matthew 14, I was impressed with three instances of overcoming:
In verse 16, Jesus told his disciples, “You give them something.” Then he put enough food in their hands to feed thousands. He always gives us the resources to meet the demands on us. We don’t have to manufacture grace!
Verses 25, 28: “Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake… Peter replied, ‘Tell me to come to you on the water.’” To Jewish thinking in the first century, the sea represented chaos and confusion; it was symbolic of the trials of life. So when Peter saw Jesus walking on the stormy lake, it represented His overcoming of life’s problems. Jesus walks on our problems and tells us to do the same!
Verse 12: “John’s [the Baptist] disciples came and took his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus.” My heart was stirred over two things:
- The devotion and brokenness of John’s followers
- The fact that they went to tell Jesus. John’s ministry was affirmed in this act. When John “left” his followers, they turned to Jesus. John had come to prepare the way for people to know Jesus (Matthew 11.10, Luke 1.76). He was not the light, but came as a witness to the light (John 1.7). He had said, “He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me” (John 1.15), and “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3.30).
Monday, January 19, 2009
Make Mine with Mustard!
In Matthew chapter 13, Jesus offers metaphors (often called parables) to help us understand the true nature of the Kingdom of Heaven. He compares the Kingdom with:
For instance, Jesus said “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all your seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and perch in its branches” (Matthew 13.31-32).
This parable reminds me that I should not despise the day of small things. (See Zechariah 4.10 as well.) The Kingdom in me does not start fully grown, nor does any Kingdom work that I do. Instead it starts small and grows. Like a mustard seed, the secret of the Kingdom’s success is not in its size, but in the life it contains. Growth comes from the life that is in the mustard seed, and growth comes from the life of the Kingdom that is in me (or in my Kingdom work).
So, I will confidently do what this parable instructs me to do as a Kingdom citizen, living Kingdom life and doing Kingdom work:
- seeds in soil
- wheat in weeds
- plants in a garden
- yeast in doe
- a treasure in a field
- a pearl in a marketplace
- a net in a lake
For instance, Jesus said “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all your seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and perch in its branches” (Matthew 13.31-32).
This parable reminds me that I should not despise the day of small things. (See Zechariah 4.10 as well.) The Kingdom in me does not start fully grown, nor does any Kingdom work that I do. Instead it starts small and grows. Like a mustard seed, the secret of the Kingdom’s success is not in its size, but in the life it contains. Growth comes from the life that is in the mustard seed, and growth comes from the life of the Kingdom that is in me (or in my Kingdom work).
So, I will confidently do what this parable instructs me to do as a Kingdom citizen, living Kingdom life and doing Kingdom work:
- Take the seed of the Kingdom
- Plant it in the fertile soil of obedience and faith
- Watch it grow from the smallest to the largest
- See it become a tree of refuge and hope to myself and to those around me
Happy gardening!
Friday, January 16, 2009
On Being For or Against
In today’s reading from Matthew (chapter 12), Jesus says something that intrigues me:
- He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters (Matthew 12.30).
When I read that, I asked myself, “Doesn’t Jesus contradict that statement elsewhere in the Bible?”
- Do not stop him… No one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, for whoever is not against us is for us (Mark 9.39-40).
- Do not stop him… for whoever is not against you is for you (Luke 9.50)
What’s the difference? How can Jesus say in one instance, “He who is not with me is against me” and in another instance, “Whoever is not against you is for you”?
Mark and Luke are reporting the same incident. Jesus is responding to his disciples’ report that they had seen a man doing good works in Jesus’ name and had told him to stop, “because he is not one of us.” The followers of Jesus were creating a false dichotomy because they misunderstood the nature of Jesus’ mission. They wanted his mission to be about them. Jesus responded by saying, in essence, “My mission is about everybody. Don’t set up these false divisions in your minds. Make room in your thinking for everybody who would do the work of the Kingdom. If they are not working against us, they are working for us.”
But, the incident in Matthew 12 is different. In this case, the Pharisees (religious leaders) were trying to discredit Jesus and his mission of inclusion. It was indeed about division, but now the division Jesus addressed was actually initiated by these leaders who should have known and followed Jesus’ truth but had instead chosen to divide themselves from what Jesus was doing. So Jesus says, in essence, “I can’t afford to have you leaders undermining my mission. Either get with the program or get out of the way! If you are not with me, you are working against me!”
Jesus’ statement also reminded me that leaders must have the support – the “with-ness” – of those they lead – especially those in subordinate leadership roles. It is not enough for these subordinate leaders to be neutral. It cannot be said, “I am not actively against him, so I’m not dividing.” That is not true. Jesus says, you must be for your leader or you are against him and you are thus dividing the followers.
Jesus gives us something to think about earlier in this chapter:
- Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand. (Matthew 12.25)
We need to get behind our leaders! There is too much at stake.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
A Prison of Waiting
Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else? (Matthew 11.3)
That question comes from John the Baptist. Don't be too hard on him. He was in prison. That’s a reasonable question to ask in prison. We can’t fault John the Baptist for asking it, can we? Perhaps his thinking process went something like this: “Lord, I’ve been doing your will, preaching your Word, baptizing the repentant, preparing the way for you. And now, this? I end up in prison? Is there justice, Lord?”
But Jesus has a word for the one imprisoned: “The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me.”
At first, these seem like harsh words to one – like myself – who is in a “prison of waiting.” But be encouraged! Jesus’ kingdom is still advancing through:
That question comes from John the Baptist. Don't be too hard on him. He was in prison. That’s a reasonable question to ask in prison. We can’t fault John the Baptist for asking it, can we? Perhaps his thinking process went something like this: “Lord, I’ve been doing your will, preaching your Word, baptizing the repentant, preparing the way for you. And now, this? I end up in prison? Is there justice, Lord?”
But Jesus has a word for the one imprisoned: “The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me.”
At first, these seem like harsh words to one – like myself – who is in a “prison of waiting.” But be encouraged! Jesus’ kingdom is still advancing through:
- Seeing
- Walking
- Cleansing
- Hearing
- Raising
- Preaching
I may be in prison, but God’s Word and God’s work is not shackled! Perhaps the Lord is saying to me (or to you): “Don’t fall away if I assign you to be a witness in your prison. You are part of my plan. Stay true. Continue faithful.”
At the end of the chapter, even we in the prison of waiting receive an amazing offer: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (v. 28). Find rest for your soul, weary “prisoner”!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
A Mission with Authority
In Matthew 10, Jesus called his disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness (v. 1). Armed with this authority, they were then sent out to:
· Go to the lost sheep and preach hope
· Heal the sick
· Raise the dead
· Cleanse those with leprosy
· Drive out demons
· Give peace to homes that would receive them and their message.
Too often in my service for the Lord, I look for ideal circumstances and fail to realize that Jesus has: 1) calls me to him; 2) gives me authority over evil; and 3) gives me authority over disease and sickness. Instead of using the authority God has given me, I find myself waiting for God to speak in a thunderclap and give me some great thing to do. I just need to come to him, take up the authority he has given me, and go looking for people who need the hope of Christ. Then, the opportunities to make a difference, to do something of significance will come.
I was speaking with my daughter this morning, and we were talking about our jobs. I told her that although my circumstances at the moment may not be ideal, I love my job. I love what I do. I love the opportunities to do something of significance for the people I meet, to make a difference in their lives. She echoed that significance: “I want to make a difference,” she said.
Are you like that? Do you want to make a difference, do something of significance? Don’t wait for a burning bush (Moses) or a heavenly vision (Isaiah) or a blinding light (Paul). Those may or may not come. Jesus is simply calling you to himself and giving you authority to represent him every day with every person you meet. You will then be:
· Hope for those who have lost their way
· Healing for those who are sick
· Life for those whose have given up on life
· Cleansing for those who are discarded by a world enamored with perfection
· Wholeness for those debilitated by sin’s power
· Peace for those whose home and hearts are in turmoil
Yes, you will be all that if you come and go – Come to Jesus and go in his authority!
Have confidence, child of God!
· Go to the lost sheep and preach hope
· Heal the sick
· Raise the dead
· Cleanse those with leprosy
· Drive out demons
· Give peace to homes that would receive them and their message.
Too often in my service for the Lord, I look for ideal circumstances and fail to realize that Jesus has: 1) calls me to him; 2) gives me authority over evil; and 3) gives me authority over disease and sickness. Instead of using the authority God has given me, I find myself waiting for God to speak in a thunderclap and give me some great thing to do. I just need to come to him, take up the authority he has given me, and go looking for people who need the hope of Christ. Then, the opportunities to make a difference, to do something of significance will come.
I was speaking with my daughter this morning, and we were talking about our jobs. I told her that although my circumstances at the moment may not be ideal, I love my job. I love what I do. I love the opportunities to do something of significance for the people I meet, to make a difference in their lives. She echoed that significance: “I want to make a difference,” she said.
Are you like that? Do you want to make a difference, do something of significance? Don’t wait for a burning bush (Moses) or a heavenly vision (Isaiah) or a blinding light (Paul). Those may or may not come. Jesus is simply calling you to himself and giving you authority to represent him every day with every person you meet. You will then be:
· Hope for those who have lost their way
· Healing for those who are sick
· Life for those whose have given up on life
· Cleansing for those who are discarded by a world enamored with perfection
· Wholeness for those debilitated by sin’s power
· Peace for those whose home and hearts are in turmoil
Yes, you will be all that if you come and go – Come to Jesus and go in his authority!
Have confidence, child of God!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
A Heart for Harvest
The Harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field (Matthew 9.37-38).
After I read that verse, I prayed the following prayer:
“Lord, first of all I ask you for a heart like yours. You said that you would give me a new heart and put your Spirit in me (Ezekiel 36.26-27). I see what your heart is like as you “saw the crowds and had compassion on them.” You led them to God, healing them, teaching them, and restoring hope. I want to be like that. I want to love and serve people as you do.
“Lord, I ask also that you would give me eyes like yours, to see people as you do, understanding them. Help me to see – not a rude driver but – someone running late for work and worried about their job. Help me to see – not a distracted cashier at Walmart but – a parent concerned for their child who is in trouble at school. Help me to see – not the frown of the waitress at the Truck Stop but – the anxious heart of one who doesn’t know if she can make ends meet. Yes, Lord, help me to see the fields that are ready for harvest (John 4.35). Give me eyes like yours.
“Then, Lord, I ask you to send me out to your harvest field, giving me partners so that together we can bring hope to a hurting world.”
Join me in that prayer this week, and give the hope of Jesus to everyone you meet.
After I read that verse, I prayed the following prayer:
“Lord, first of all I ask you for a heart like yours. You said that you would give me a new heart and put your Spirit in me (Ezekiel 36.26-27). I see what your heart is like as you “saw the crowds and had compassion on them.” You led them to God, healing them, teaching them, and restoring hope. I want to be like that. I want to love and serve people as you do.
“Lord, I ask also that you would give me eyes like yours, to see people as you do, understanding them. Help me to see – not a rude driver but – someone running late for work and worried about their job. Help me to see – not a distracted cashier at Walmart but – a parent concerned for their child who is in trouble at school. Help me to see – not the frown of the waitress at the Truck Stop but – the anxious heart of one who doesn’t know if she can make ends meet. Yes, Lord, help me to see the fields that are ready for harvest (John 4.35). Give me eyes like yours.
“Then, Lord, I ask you to send me out to your harvest field, giving me partners so that together we can bring hope to a hurting world.”
Join me in that prayer this week, and give the hope of Jesus to everyone you meet.
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