Psalm 9:16 The LORD is known by his justice; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands.
Saddam Hussein is dead. Long live the Iraqi people! FREEDOM!
Short daily devotions for busy Christians and Church meetings
Friday, December 29, 2006
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Restoration
Amos 9:11 "In that day I will restore David's fallen tent. I will repair its broken places, restore its ruins, and build it as it used to be,
Our church building is over 50 years old and it is beginning to show wear and tear all over the place. We’ve a large crack in the Fellowship Hall which needs to be attended to as soon as possible. We’ve a worn out kitchen that is now inadequate for the amount of social functions we put on at the church. Our roof constantly gives us trouble and the septic system needs overhauled. The front doors are past their best and the concrete entrance outside is beginning to crack and fail. It’s going to take a lot of focus and attention to detail to get these things restored, replaced and renewed. It’s also going to take a great deal of money and fund-raising to accomplish these tasks.
Much of the work we can do ourselves and, in the past, we have had marvelous work parties and crews who have performed this well. We need a plan to be put in place, with a schedule of what’s to be done. We need to communicate often with the congregation of where we are, what we are planning to do, and what the next stage is going to cost. People are more open to giving to something that they can see happening and understand why it’s necessary, rather than just scurry about like squirrels trying to fix a broken nest.
My aim is to get enough done in the next five years that will suffice for the next fifty years. My calling is to keep asking God to restore us and give us His blessing to build up the church spiritually, numerically, and physically. Without His blessing, we can do nothing that will last. With His favor, we can overcome all of the obstacles and accomplish what lies ahead.
Perhaps, as well as mending broken walls, we can also be in the business of repairing broken lives, restoring lost souls, and retrieving those who have fallen away. For no matter how fine and wonderful our building looks, if souls aren’t being saved, or the hungry fed, and the poor supported, then all that we are restoring is a mausoleum to a dead faith. What we need is a new life center, where people can be challenged and changed; where church members and visitors can become pilgrims of love, joy, and goodwill to our community, and beyond.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, in 2007 our wee church will be looking inside of its building and will try to repair many areas. Help us to keep focused on what is important for the well-being of the body, mind, and soul of our church. At the same time, keep our eyes upon the needs in our community and around the world, so that we don’t become preoccupied with our own stuff to the exclusion of what’s happening around us. Grant us awareness and discernment, a vision and direction. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Our church building is over 50 years old and it is beginning to show wear and tear all over the place. We’ve a large crack in the Fellowship Hall which needs to be attended to as soon as possible. We’ve a worn out kitchen that is now inadequate for the amount of social functions we put on at the church. Our roof constantly gives us trouble and the septic system needs overhauled. The front doors are past their best and the concrete entrance outside is beginning to crack and fail. It’s going to take a lot of focus and attention to detail to get these things restored, replaced and renewed. It’s also going to take a great deal of money and fund-raising to accomplish these tasks.
Much of the work we can do ourselves and, in the past, we have had marvelous work parties and crews who have performed this well. We need a plan to be put in place, with a schedule of what’s to be done. We need to communicate often with the congregation of where we are, what we are planning to do, and what the next stage is going to cost. People are more open to giving to something that they can see happening and understand why it’s necessary, rather than just scurry about like squirrels trying to fix a broken nest.
My aim is to get enough done in the next five years that will suffice for the next fifty years. My calling is to keep asking God to restore us and give us His blessing to build up the church spiritually, numerically, and physically. Without His blessing, we can do nothing that will last. With His favor, we can overcome all of the obstacles and accomplish what lies ahead.
Perhaps, as well as mending broken walls, we can also be in the business of repairing broken lives, restoring lost souls, and retrieving those who have fallen away. For no matter how fine and wonderful our building looks, if souls aren’t being saved, or the hungry fed, and the poor supported, then all that we are restoring is a mausoleum to a dead faith. What we need is a new life center, where people can be challenged and changed; where church members and visitors can become pilgrims of love, joy, and goodwill to our community, and beyond.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, in 2007 our wee church will be looking inside of its building and will try to repair many areas. Help us to keep focused on what is important for the well-being of the body, mind, and soul of our church. At the same time, keep our eyes upon the needs in our community and around the world, so that we don’t become preoccupied with our own stuff to the exclusion of what’s happening around us. Grant us awareness and discernment, a vision and direction. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Free Faith
2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
We had one of the best Christmas Eve services at Erin last Sunday night. Families flocked to the church and filled the place with gladness and goodwill. The singing was tremendous and, as one person told me afterwards, when the congregation started with “O Come All Ye Faithful,” it was overwhelmingly full of faith and joy. I think everyone in the service would have given the angels on the hillsides of Bethlehem a hard act to follow.
People felt free to express their faith through the wonderful music and traditional carols. The large amount of families and young children who attended the service brought a lot of pride and joy to my heart. That very morning, many of the youngsters performed their simple Nativity play, which brought a lump to our throats and tears to our eyes. It was just a perfect way to begin Christmas. It was just a beautiful time to rejoice in the Lord.
We live in a wonderful country. It isn’t perfect by any means, but the people here truly understand what it means to be free. I personally think that having faith in Jesus and being empowered by the Holy Spirit are what sustains this freedom. I’m not saying that we’re better or superior to everyone else. I’m not stating that we’re more holy and saintly than any other country. I just believe that the true mixture of faith and freedom that we presently experience can only be encountered by truly rejoicing in Jesus.
That’s what I experienced on Christmas Eve at Erin, and everyone else seemed to feel the same. I hope and pray that we can carry the same Spirit within us each and everyday until Christmas rolls around again next year. Perhaps if we succeed in that, peace and joy may spread across the world at last.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for a truly enjoyable Christmas and for bringing so many families to church from all over the country. May the presence and experience of Your Holy Spirit reign in our hearts and minds. Help us to share what we experienced of heaven that night, with all whom we encounter each day on earth. In Your Holy and Sacred Name, we pray. Amen.
We had one of the best Christmas Eve services at Erin last Sunday night. Families flocked to the church and filled the place with gladness and goodwill. The singing was tremendous and, as one person told me afterwards, when the congregation started with “O Come All Ye Faithful,” it was overwhelmingly full of faith and joy. I think everyone in the service would have given the angels on the hillsides of Bethlehem a hard act to follow.
People felt free to express their faith through the wonderful music and traditional carols. The large amount of families and young children who attended the service brought a lot of pride and joy to my heart. That very morning, many of the youngsters performed their simple Nativity play, which brought a lump to our throats and tears to our eyes. It was just a perfect way to begin Christmas. It was just a beautiful time to rejoice in the Lord.
We live in a wonderful country. It isn’t perfect by any means, but the people here truly understand what it means to be free. I personally think that having faith in Jesus and being empowered by the Holy Spirit are what sustains this freedom. I’m not saying that we’re better or superior to everyone else. I’m not stating that we’re more holy and saintly than any other country. I just believe that the true mixture of faith and freedom that we presently experience can only be encountered by truly rejoicing in Jesus.
That’s what I experienced on Christmas Eve at Erin, and everyone else seemed to feel the same. I hope and pray that we can carry the same Spirit within us each and everyday until Christmas rolls around again next year. Perhaps if we succeed in that, peace and joy may spread across the world at last.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for a truly enjoyable Christmas and for bringing so many families to church from all over the country. May the presence and experience of Your Holy Spirit reign in our hearts and minds. Help us to share what we experienced of heaven that night, with all whom we encounter each day on earth. In Your Holy and Sacred Name, we pray. Amen.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
A Blue Christmas prayer
Blue
Christmas Prayer
There’s no room at Christmas for sadness,
There’s no place for hearts that are blue.
All the world wants to hear
Is a word full of cheer,
Not a sigh, not a tear, not from you.
There’s no room at Christmas for loneliness,
There’s no place for your emptiness and grief.
All the world wants is peace,
Mistletoe and Christmas trees,
Not a heartache that mars its beliefs.
There’s no room at Christmas for sickness,
There’s no place or time to be ill.
All the world wants is health,
Prosperity and wealth,
Not a pain that can spoil its goodwill.
There’s no room at Christmas for Jesus,
There’s no place for His family, too,
All the world would not share,
No one seems to really care,
A stable will just have to do.
Silence……..
Yes, there’s room at Christmas for sadness,
There’s a place in God’s heart for you.
For He knows pain and loss,
Which He felt on the Cross,
So this candle is lighted for you…*
For Christ knows what it’s like to be blue.
light a blue candle
© 2006 John Stuart, writer of heaven’s Highway
and Stushie’s Stuff
Christmas PrayerThere’s no room at Christmas for sadness,
There’s no place for hearts that are blue.
All the world wants to hear
Is a word full of cheer,
Not a sigh, not a tear, not from you.
There’s no room at Christmas for loneliness,
There’s no place for your emptiness and grief.
All the world wants is peace,
Mistletoe and Christmas trees,
Not a heartache that mars its beliefs.
There’s no room at Christmas for sickness,
There’s no place or time to be ill.
All the world wants is health,
Prosperity and wealth,
Not a pain that can spoil its goodwill.
There’s no room at Christmas for Jesus,
There’s no place for His family, too,
All the world would not share,
No one seems to really care,
A stable will just have to do.
Silence……..
Yes, there’s room at Christmas for sadness,
There’s a place in God’s heart for you.
For He knows pain and loss,
Which He felt on the Cross,
So this candle is lighted for you…*
For Christ knows what it’s like to be blue.
light a blue candle
© 2006 John Stuart, writer of heaven’s Highway
and Stushie’s Stuff
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Christmas Chains
Philippians 1:13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.
There’s an old Preston Sturges movie from 1941, starring Joel McCrea and Veronica Lake called “Sullivan’s Travels.” It’s one of my favorite films because it deals with the years of the Great Depression in both a comic and serious manner. I also loved Joel McCrea as an actor, and Veronica Lake’s hair style still “wows” me after all these years.
The story of the movie is all about a film director who makes weird movies that have nothing to do with reality. He thinks that he’s making pictures about tragedy, suffering, and trouble, but he has never experienced any of it first-hand. When he is challenged about his sheltered life-style, he decides to become a hobo, walking across America and hitching rides on freight trains. At first, he doesn’t understand what’s happening in the devastated, depressed communities of America, but eventually he experiences the brutality, desperation, and depravity of people who have lost everything.
He ends up becoming imprisoned and is shackled in chains. Each day, he works in the swamps under the watchful eye of armed and brutal guards. The only re-creation that the prisoners enjoy is going to the local black church to watch a couple of old Mickey Mouse cartoons. At one point, all of the prisoners are laughing, and Joel McCrea realizes that laughter is all that they own for themselves. As I say, it’s a great movie, and one that I especially enjoy during the Christmas break.
When Paul was a prisoner, he shared his faith with everyone – the guards, the governors, even the other inmates. At this time of year, when we usually think of ourselves and our families, let’s not forget those who are in prison paying for their crimes, and those who are watching over them to keep us safe. Both prisoners and guards lead different lives from us, but they also need our prayers, our thoughts, and the sharing of our faith.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, You were once a prisoner and You died between two thieves. You were harshly treated by the guards, who were sent to watch over You. Yet even when You were badly treated and foully abused, You still forgave those who hurt You.
Today, we remember all of those who will be in prison over Christmas. We pray for those who have committed crimes and for those who will need to watch over them. Bless them all with Your merciful holiness and grant to them Your forgiving peace. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Church Parade
Galatians 5:25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
Years ago, when I was in the Scouts, our troop used to go to church once per month. Along with the other uniformed youth organizations like the Cub Scouts, Brownies, Guides, and what was known as the Boys’ Brigade, we used to parade around a massive square and march to the local Methodist church. It was an impressive sight with our different colored uniforms and the various tartans on our kilts. We stepped around the shopping mall square and felt very important. Cars and coaches, buses and taxis all stopped as we marched to the beat of a big bass drum.
Keeping in step was the most difficult part. With different groups of different ages and sexes, it was hard to march at the same pace. We even got distracted by the bystanders on the sidewalk, especially if amongst them were some of our school peers, who whistled, heckled, and jeered at the marchers. And if the clouds were teeming with rain, with a strong north-westerly wind, we got soaked through to the skin before we ever got to church.
Paul talks about Christians keeping in step with God’s Holy Spirit. We march through our life’s journey from beginning to end, usually at our own pace. In the best of times and worst of times, we still journey on until we come to a dead stop. What Paul is bringing to our attention is that there is a better way to get through life – a life that is lived in step with the Holy Spirit, for that’s when the fruits of the Spirit can be ours for the taking. And who amongst does not want those fruits? Aren’t love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, the better things about life? Aren’t those qualities of the Holy Spirit the best that we can ever experience and accomplish?
So, today, as we scurry throughout this busiest of all seasons in the year, let’s try to keep in step with the Spirit. Otherwise, we’ll just wear ourselves out and get nowhere fast.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, in our rush to keep up with listing and giving, buying and wrapping, we’ve set ourselves stressful deadlines and unhealthy choices. Help us to keep in step with the Spirit, so that we may be led to simple, sacred peace of the stable in Bethlehem, and kneel at Your feet. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Years ago, when I was in the Scouts, our troop used to go to church once per month. Along with the other uniformed youth organizations like the Cub Scouts, Brownies, Guides, and what was known as the Boys’ Brigade, we used to parade around a massive square and march to the local Methodist church. It was an impressive sight with our different colored uniforms and the various tartans on our kilts. We stepped around the shopping mall square and felt very important. Cars and coaches, buses and taxis all stopped as we marched to the beat of a big bass drum.
Keeping in step was the most difficult part. With different groups of different ages and sexes, it was hard to march at the same pace. We even got distracted by the bystanders on the sidewalk, especially if amongst them were some of our school peers, who whistled, heckled, and jeered at the marchers. And if the clouds were teeming with rain, with a strong north-westerly wind, we got soaked through to the skin before we ever got to church.
Paul talks about Christians keeping in step with God’s Holy Spirit. We march through our life’s journey from beginning to end, usually at our own pace. In the best of times and worst of times, we still journey on until we come to a dead stop. What Paul is bringing to our attention is that there is a better way to get through life – a life that is lived in step with the Holy Spirit, for that’s when the fruits of the Spirit can be ours for the taking. And who amongst does not want those fruits? Aren’t love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, the better things about life? Aren’t those qualities of the Holy Spirit the best that we can ever experience and accomplish?
So, today, as we scurry throughout this busiest of all seasons in the year, let’s try to keep in step with the Spirit. Otherwise, we’ll just wear ourselves out and get nowhere fast.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, in our rush to keep up with listing and giving, buying and wrapping, we’ve set ourselves stressful deadlines and unhealthy choices. Help us to keep in step with the Spirit, so that we may be led to simple, sacred peace of the stable in Bethlehem, and kneel at Your feet. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
The Spirit of Christmas to come
All the way from the shores of Britain - Old Ebenezer's Scrooge's turf, comes this new survey
Britain's School Kids unaware about Jesus on Christmas Day
Is this what shall be in the US or what could be???
Britain's School Kids unaware about Jesus on Christmas Day
Is this what shall be in the US or what could be???
Monday, December 18, 2006
To Be a Christian
Acts 26:29 Paul replied, "Short time or long-I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains."
At times, I wish I could be more like Paul. He was fearless for the faith he loved, and willing to cross swords with kings and emperors. He saw every person as the same – a seeker of the truth and in need of salvation. He didn’t let power or prestige, status or strength go to his head. Each person he came across was in need of God’s forgiveness; everyone he met needed Christ as their Savior.
I wonder how he would have coped with today. Would he have been content to preach from a pulpit each Sunday and lead special classes in church? Would he have gone to meeting after meeting to make and take decisions on behalf of the congregation? Or would he have been out and about in the streets, stores, businesses and banks preaching the gospel? Would he be down at the city chambers giving his testimony and talking to the mayor, the press, and other community leaders about their need for salvation and Christ in their hearts?
I think Paul would have been stirring things up and getting arrested. I think he would still be in chains and addressing people in power. The souls of great, powerful women and men would still be just as important to him, as would be the Christmas mall-shopper, the postal worker, and the homeless itinerant.
The best Christmas gift we can give this year is the sharing of God’s Word and the promise of the Gospel. Let’s not be afraid to express our faith in positive ways to the most negative of people. Let’s not just put the word “Christ” back into Christmas, but let’s also put it back in the word “Christian.”
Prayer: Lord Jesus, You call us to be followers of Your Way and proclaimers of Your Word. Sometimes we are afraid to show or express our beliefs, in case we appear to be controversial, intolerant, and uncompassionate. Grant us, Lord, to have Paul’s concern for the everlasting souls of those around us. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
At times, I wish I could be more like Paul. He was fearless for the faith he loved, and willing to cross swords with kings and emperors. He saw every person as the same – a seeker of the truth and in need of salvation. He didn’t let power or prestige, status or strength go to his head. Each person he came across was in need of God’s forgiveness; everyone he met needed Christ as their Savior.
I wonder how he would have coped with today. Would he have been content to preach from a pulpit each Sunday and lead special classes in church? Would he have gone to meeting after meeting to make and take decisions on behalf of the congregation? Or would he have been out and about in the streets, stores, businesses and banks preaching the gospel? Would he be down at the city chambers giving his testimony and talking to the mayor, the press, and other community leaders about their need for salvation and Christ in their hearts?
I think Paul would have been stirring things up and getting arrested. I think he would still be in chains and addressing people in power. The souls of great, powerful women and men would still be just as important to him, as would be the Christmas mall-shopper, the postal worker, and the homeless itinerant.
The best Christmas gift we can give this year is the sharing of God’s Word and the promise of the Gospel. Let’s not be afraid to express our faith in positive ways to the most negative of people. Let’s not just put the word “Christ” back into Christmas, but let’s also put it back in the word “Christian.”
Prayer: Lord Jesus, You call us to be followers of Your Way and proclaimers of Your Word. Sometimes we are afraid to show or express our beliefs, in case we appear to be controversial, intolerant, and uncompassionate. Grant us, Lord, to have Paul’s concern for the everlasting souls of those around us. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Seven Days Radio Show
This afternoon on the Seven Days Radio Show, I'll be joined by several guests: Rev. Sharon Carter, a specialist in family & women’s ministries; Kenny Woodhull, the Director of Knoxville’s New City café, and local singer/songwriter Josh Johnson, who’s appearing tonight at the New City café.
I'll also be talking to Joe Sherman, the Vice President of the National Pastors’ Conference and asking him what it’s all about.
And if we've time, we'll talk about those people in Iran who deny that the Holocaust ever took place during World War 2, including the controversial American David Dukes. What revisionist history book have they all been reading????
Join us for a lively discussion at 4.00pm, EST, and you'll also have the chance to win two tickets to Josh Johnson’s concert tonight.
Listen live on WVLZ 1180AM Knoxville; WKCE 1120AM Maryville or on the internet at www.southernrootsradio.com
I'll also be talking to Joe Sherman, the Vice President of the National Pastors’ Conference and asking him what it’s all about.
And if we've time, we'll talk about those people in Iran who deny that the Holocaust ever took place during World War 2, including the controversial American David Dukes. What revisionist history book have they all been reading????
Join us for a lively discussion at 4.00pm, EST, and you'll also have the chance to win two tickets to Josh Johnson’s concert tonight.
Listen live on WVLZ 1180AM Knoxville; WKCE 1120AM Maryville or on the internet at www.southernrootsradio.com
Contender
Philippians 1:27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel…
I see that there’s a new Rocky Balboa movie out this Christmas, and I’m wondering whether or not to go and see it. I’ve seen the other five, but I think that after the third one, Sylvester Stallone should have hung up his boxing gloves. I guess that I don’t want to see him looking any older because that means I’m a lot older, too.
This train of thought reminded me about another boxer in the movies, played by Marlon Brando, called Terry Malloy. He portrays a has-been boxer in the classic movie “On the Waterfront.” It’s one of my youngest daughter Lauren’s favorite all time pictures. I guess everyone can practically quote Brando’s famous line:
"You don't understand. I could've had class. I could've been a contender. I could've been somebody instead of a bum, which I am."
“I could’ve been a contender.” In other words, I could have had a shot at a world title.
In today’s scripture passage, Paul talks about being a contender for the Gospel. We tend to forget that he had to win over the hearts and minds of people who didn’t know what Christ, Christianity, or even Christmas was. He had to contend with their traditional notions and superstitious beliefs. He had to fight for his faith to survive. In the end, Paul was more than just a contender; he became a Champion of Christ’s church.
These days, we find it difficult to express the Good News and Gospel of Christ because so many people get offended or think that we’re being intolerant. But guess what? It’s always been that way - from Round One in the New Testament times up until this very day. People, leaders, and governments get offended with Christ because His message is radical, life-changing and challenging. And, because of this, we’re meant to surrender to Christ and contend with the world – the trouble is some people believe we should surrender to the world and contend with Christ.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us to fight the good fight and contend for our faith. Keep us from backing down and backing away from Your radical message. Enable us to be strong in our beliefs, and even although we are far from perfect, grant us spirits that will contend for Your truth in order to win souls for Your Kingdom. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
I see that there’s a new Rocky Balboa movie out this Christmas, and I’m wondering whether or not to go and see it. I’ve seen the other five, but I think that after the third one, Sylvester Stallone should have hung up his boxing gloves. I guess that I don’t want to see him looking any older because that means I’m a lot older, too.
This train of thought reminded me about another boxer in the movies, played by Marlon Brando, called Terry Malloy. He portrays a has-been boxer in the classic movie “On the Waterfront.” It’s one of my youngest daughter Lauren’s favorite all time pictures. I guess everyone can practically quote Brando’s famous line:
"You don't understand. I could've had class. I could've been a contender. I could've been somebody instead of a bum, which I am."
“I could’ve been a contender.” In other words, I could have had a shot at a world title.
In today’s scripture passage, Paul talks about being a contender for the Gospel. We tend to forget that he had to win over the hearts and minds of people who didn’t know what Christ, Christianity, or even Christmas was. He had to contend with their traditional notions and superstitious beliefs. He had to fight for his faith to survive. In the end, Paul was more than just a contender; he became a Champion of Christ’s church.
These days, we find it difficult to express the Good News and Gospel of Christ because so many people get offended or think that we’re being intolerant. But guess what? It’s always been that way - from Round One in the New Testament times up until this very day. People, leaders, and governments get offended with Christ because His message is radical, life-changing and challenging. And, because of this, we’re meant to surrender to Christ and contend with the world – the trouble is some people believe we should surrender to the world and contend with Christ.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us to fight the good fight and contend for our faith. Keep us from backing down and backing away from Your radical message. Enable us to be strong in our beliefs, and even although we are far from perfect, grant us spirits that will contend for Your truth in order to win souls for Your Kingdom. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Yuletide Stress
Stressed out because of Christmas? Believe me, you don't know what Christmas stress is. If you want to keep whining about Christmas, then don't visit the following website. However, if you really want things to change....
Visit the following website
http://www.thelightsofchristmas.org/christmas/story.html
Visit the following website
http://www.thelightsofchristmas.org/christmas/story.html
Calloused Hearts
Acts 28:27 ‘For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.'
In December 1745, Bonnie Prince Charlie was leading his Scottish Highlanders to London. They managed to reached Derby, about 100 miles outside of the capital city. His revolution was within weeks of victory because the Hanoverians were in a panic and making plans to leave Britain altogether. The Jacobite rebellion that had begun months before, with the raising of House of Stuart Standard and the gathering of the Scottish clans on the shores of Glenfinnan, was within reach of its goals to overthrow King George. But then some bad winter weather set in, creating disharmony among the chieftains, which led to disunity in the Prince’s headquarters.
Arguments occurred, with Charlie’s favorites vying for power against the loyal chiefs. Because victory was so near, people were more interested in ensuring for themselves powerful places in the new government than actually finishing the rebellion. Rivals created discord and the Prince started to refuse to listen to his most loyal Scottish commanders. He favored those who had come over from France with him, rather than those who knew what sacrifices and soldiering would be required to seal their victory.
The result was chaos in command and division throughout the Jacobite Army. And so, on 17 December, 1745, the rebels made a grave error by deciding to retreat for the winter. They began to lose the war at that point, because they wouldn’t listen to one another. There was no room for negotiation; there was no consensus of strategy, and so the Jacobite rebellion was defeated from within itself.
The same accusations are made about the Mediterranean Jewish communities who are faced with the Gospel and the message of Jesus Christ. Instead of listening to the new hope that the first Christians bring, they reject God’s counsel through Christ, and so their faithful communities begin to fracture, with no possibility of being healed or restored to God. This is also something that we as a denomination need to take seriously. Christ’s message has not changed and His ministry has not thwarted from His purpose: to save human souls. We, however, have been distracted by our own voices and decisions, which is leading down to a path of division, defeat, and destruction. If we don’t pay attention to the painful and prophetic voice of God in our midst, then we, too, will reach a point of no return and no restoration. There is no confusion about what God says and what His message is: we are the ones who create confusion for ourselves; we are the ones who foolishly rebel against His word.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, in the midst of yet another busy and hurried year, we keep trying to make and take short-cuts with our faith. Forgive us for being disrespectful and disloyal to You. Help us to get back on the path that You have outlined and prepared for us. May we follow You, instead of falling over ourselves. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
In December 1745, Bonnie Prince Charlie was leading his Scottish Highlanders to London. They managed to reached Derby, about 100 miles outside of the capital city. His revolution was within weeks of victory because the Hanoverians were in a panic and making plans to leave Britain altogether. The Jacobite rebellion that had begun months before, with the raising of House of Stuart Standard and the gathering of the Scottish clans on the shores of Glenfinnan, was within reach of its goals to overthrow King George. But then some bad winter weather set in, creating disharmony among the chieftains, which led to disunity in the Prince’s headquarters.
Arguments occurred, with Charlie’s favorites vying for power against the loyal chiefs. Because victory was so near, people were more interested in ensuring for themselves powerful places in the new government than actually finishing the rebellion. Rivals created discord and the Prince started to refuse to listen to his most loyal Scottish commanders. He favored those who had come over from France with him, rather than those who knew what sacrifices and soldiering would be required to seal their victory.
The result was chaos in command and division throughout the Jacobite Army. And so, on 17 December, 1745, the rebels made a grave error by deciding to retreat for the winter. They began to lose the war at that point, because they wouldn’t listen to one another. There was no room for negotiation; there was no consensus of strategy, and so the Jacobite rebellion was defeated from within itself.
The same accusations are made about the Mediterranean Jewish communities who are faced with the Gospel and the message of Jesus Christ. Instead of listening to the new hope that the first Christians bring, they reject God’s counsel through Christ, and so their faithful communities begin to fracture, with no possibility of being healed or restored to God. This is also something that we as a denomination need to take seriously. Christ’s message has not changed and His ministry has not thwarted from His purpose: to save human souls. We, however, have been distracted by our own voices and decisions, which is leading down to a path of division, defeat, and destruction. If we don’t pay attention to the painful and prophetic voice of God in our midst, then we, too, will reach a point of no return and no restoration. There is no confusion about what God says and what His message is: we are the ones who create confusion for ourselves; we are the ones who foolishly rebel against His word.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, in the midst of yet another busy and hurried year, we keep trying to make and take short-cuts with our faith. Forgive us for being disrespectful and disloyal to You. Help us to get back on the path that You have outlined and prepared for us. May we follow You, instead of falling over ourselves. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Choices
Exodus 23:21 Pay attention to him and listen to what he says. Do not rebel against him; he will not forgive your rebellion, since my Name is in him.
John 3:36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on him."
It often amazes me to see how consistent God is over all of these centuries. We’re living in a world where no absolutes are readily accepted and people make up their own version of what truth is. And yet, when we read the scriptures, we find that God hasn’t changed His message to suit these times, the culture or the people.
Today’s passages are separated by almost 1400 years, more than enough time for God’s people to be in different places, with different ideas, and different cultures. But God doesn’t change: His will cannot be negotiated; His people can either accept or reject what He has to say. There’s no compromise and there’s no allowing circumstances to change His decision. We either accept God and receive His blessing, or we reject Him and remain under His wrath.
These days, some people are loathe to accept that kind of message and even some pastors have strayed far away from the concept of an up or down choice for believers. “We live in a modern world,” they may say, “a cosmopolitan, diverse, and different society from Biblical times. To state that we only have one choice is being intolerant, outdated, and insensitive. Go back to your Christian caves and leave the rest of the world to do what it wants.”
But no matter what they think, in the end it’s what God thinks, says, and does that will be supreme. If He didn’t change His ideas in the 1400 years between Moses and Jesus, why do we arrogantly think He will change for our way of life now?
Prayer: Lord God, somehow we’ve got it into our head that You change with our times and that every succeeding generation renegotiates Your word with You. We even think that our up-to-date messages overtake the sacredness and power of Your word. Forgive us for being arrogant and self-consumed; steer us away from being idolaters of our own choices, instead of becoming faithful servants of Your Kingdom. In Christ’s Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
John 3:36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on him."
It often amazes me to see how consistent God is over all of these centuries. We’re living in a world where no absolutes are readily accepted and people make up their own version of what truth is. And yet, when we read the scriptures, we find that God hasn’t changed His message to suit these times, the culture or the people.
Today’s passages are separated by almost 1400 years, more than enough time for God’s people to be in different places, with different ideas, and different cultures. But God doesn’t change: His will cannot be negotiated; His people can either accept or reject what He has to say. There’s no compromise and there’s no allowing circumstances to change His decision. We either accept God and receive His blessing, or we reject Him and remain under His wrath.
These days, some people are loathe to accept that kind of message and even some pastors have strayed far away from the concept of an up or down choice for believers. “We live in a modern world,” they may say, “a cosmopolitan, diverse, and different society from Biblical times. To state that we only have one choice is being intolerant, outdated, and insensitive. Go back to your Christian caves and leave the rest of the world to do what it wants.”
But no matter what they think, in the end it’s what God thinks, says, and does that will be supreme. If He didn’t change His ideas in the 1400 years between Moses and Jesus, why do we arrogantly think He will change for our way of life now?
Prayer: Lord God, somehow we’ve got it into our head that You change with our times and that every succeeding generation renegotiates Your word with You. We even think that our up-to-date messages overtake the sacredness and power of Your word. Forgive us for being arrogant and self-consumed; steer us away from being idolaters of our own choices, instead of becoming faithful servants of Your Kingdom. In Christ’s Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Handling Snakes
Mark 16:18 “…they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well."
I always struggle with this verse, especially since I have a great aversion to snakes. I don’t even like to see them at the zoo behind glass. I once had to kill a snake in my garden, which was bothering my dog. Fortunately, I had a pitch fork in my hand at the time before it could strike. I don’t know what kind it was, but I was sweating with fear when it was all over.
This verse makes me cringe, but also makes me ask why did Mark think it was so necessary to write about this? Because it comes right at the end of the gospel, some people have suggested that these final verses were written much later and did not appear in Mark’s original version. But it still doesn’t answer my question: why is it there in the first place?
I guess it puzzles me that Christians, in order to prove their faith, would use this passage to handle poisonous snakes and drink lethal liquids. Every year, someone is killed in the backwoods of Kentucky, Arkansas, or even Tennessee because they’ve been handling snakes to prove that they are Christians. It seems to me that if we want to prove ourselves as Christians, we’ve got to handle things like shame, guilt, and forgiveness; we’ve got to swallow statements like love another, love your neighbor, and love your enemies. Those are far more radical testimonies about our faith than handling snakes and drinking poison.
Today, wherever we go and whosoever we met, let’s practice radical Christianity by helping those we don’t like, giving to those charities that we don’t approve, and forgiving those who keep hurting us. Or would we rather just quietly handle our own pet snakes?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, our faith challenges our lifestyle choices and daily decisions. You want us to be radical reformers who use faith as a means to influence our communities and bring people to God. Enable us to genuinely testify to Your power in our lives through the beneficial deeds that we undertake and accomplish in Your Holy Name. Amen.
I always struggle with this verse, especially since I have a great aversion to snakes. I don’t even like to see them at the zoo behind glass. I once had to kill a snake in my garden, which was bothering my dog. Fortunately, I had a pitch fork in my hand at the time before it could strike. I don’t know what kind it was, but I was sweating with fear when it was all over.
This verse makes me cringe, but also makes me ask why did Mark think it was so necessary to write about this? Because it comes right at the end of the gospel, some people have suggested that these final verses were written much later and did not appear in Mark’s original version. But it still doesn’t answer my question: why is it there in the first place?
I guess it puzzles me that Christians, in order to prove their faith, would use this passage to handle poisonous snakes and drink lethal liquids. Every year, someone is killed in the backwoods of Kentucky, Arkansas, or even Tennessee because they’ve been handling snakes to prove that they are Christians. It seems to me that if we want to prove ourselves as Christians, we’ve got to handle things like shame, guilt, and forgiveness; we’ve got to swallow statements like love another, love your neighbor, and love your enemies. Those are far more radical testimonies about our faith than handling snakes and drinking poison.
Today, wherever we go and whosoever we met, let’s practice radical Christianity by helping those we don’t like, giving to those charities that we don’t approve, and forgiving those who keep hurting us. Or would we rather just quietly handle our own pet snakes?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, our faith challenges our lifestyle choices and daily decisions. You want us to be radical reformers who use faith as a means to influence our communities and bring people to God. Enable us to genuinely testify to Your power in our lives through the beneficial deeds that we undertake and accomplish in Your Holy Name. Amen.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Road to Unafraid
1 John 3: 16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.
I’ve just finished reading a great book last night. It’s called “The Road to Unafraid” by Capt. Jeff Struecker. He was one of the Army Rangers who played a major role in rescuing American troops in Mogadishu, Somalia. Three times he led a rescue convoy into the heart of that city, whilst undergoing heavy hostile fire. He lost some good friends amongst his band of brothers that fateful day, and his heroic exploits were portrayed in the movie “Black Hawk Down.”
Jeff says that it was his faith in God and prayers that got him through the battle. When it was all over and the troops were resting in a football stadium, some men came up to him and asked him why God let all of the carnage happen and where did the spirits of their fallen comrades go after death? Jeff said that he didn’t know why God permitted such violence, but he did say that those soldiers who had faith in Christ were reunited with their Lord at the instance of their death. Jeff explained that he didn’t make up the rules, but one day we would all be accountable for choosing or rejecting Christ.
Jeff writes that it was a profound moment in his life. Here he was, one of the best Rangers in the army preaching the gospel to young men who, like himself, were bloodied, beaten and battered by the battle. Some of the soldiers accepted Christ in that football stadium, giving their hearts to Jesus in the middle of what had become a medical and triage center.
The rest of the book tells Jeff’s story about winning the Best Ranger of the Year competition; his beautiful relationship with his wife and kids; and also his decision to become an Army chaplain, who has been in the midst of heavy fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq, giving solace, strength, and comfort to young soldiers.
I’m interviewing Jeff this afternoon on the Seven Days Radio Show between 4-5pm. You can listen to him on WVLZ1180AM in Knoxville, and WKCE 1120AM in Maryville. You can also hear it live on the internet at www.southernrootsradio.com As well as interviewing Jeff, I’ll be giving away a copy of his book as a prize.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we hardly think about faith being proclaimed and the Gospel being shared among soldiers. And yet, when we pause to reflect upon this, didn’t You preach to soldiers about being content with their pay, and once helped a centurion who asked for a miracle? Lord, as we pray for our troops at home and abroad, we also pray for their eternal souls. Open their hearts and minds to Your Gospel, Your Story, and Your Teaching. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
I’ve just finished reading a great book last night. It’s called “The Road to Unafraid” by Capt. Jeff Struecker. He was one of the Army Rangers who played a major role in rescuing American troops in Mogadishu, Somalia. Three times he led a rescue convoy into the heart of that city, whilst undergoing heavy hostile fire. He lost some good friends amongst his band of brothers that fateful day, and his heroic exploits were portrayed in the movie “Black Hawk Down.”
Jeff says that it was his faith in God and prayers that got him through the battle. When it was all over and the troops were resting in a football stadium, some men came up to him and asked him why God let all of the carnage happen and where did the spirits of their fallen comrades go after death? Jeff said that he didn’t know why God permitted such violence, but he did say that those soldiers who had faith in Christ were reunited with their Lord at the instance of their death. Jeff explained that he didn’t make up the rules, but one day we would all be accountable for choosing or rejecting Christ.
Jeff writes that it was a profound moment in his life. Here he was, one of the best Rangers in the army preaching the gospel to young men who, like himself, were bloodied, beaten and battered by the battle. Some of the soldiers accepted Christ in that football stadium, giving their hearts to Jesus in the middle of what had become a medical and triage center.
The rest of the book tells Jeff’s story about winning the Best Ranger of the Year competition; his beautiful relationship with his wife and kids; and also his decision to become an Army chaplain, who has been in the midst of heavy fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq, giving solace, strength, and comfort to young soldiers.
I’m interviewing Jeff this afternoon on the Seven Days Radio Show between 4-5pm. You can listen to him on WVLZ1180AM in Knoxville, and WKCE 1120AM in Maryville. You can also hear it live on the internet at www.southernrootsradio.com As well as interviewing Jeff, I’ll be giving away a copy of his book as a prize.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we hardly think about faith being proclaimed and the Gospel being shared among soldiers. And yet, when we pause to reflect upon this, didn’t You preach to soldiers about being content with their pay, and once helped a centurion who asked for a miracle? Lord, as we pray for our troops at home and abroad, we also pray for their eternal souls. Open their hearts and minds to Your Gospel, Your Story, and Your Teaching. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Depressing News
Galatians 5:5 But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope.
I was reading a newspaper report from Scotland this morning that reveals the number of prescriptions for anti-depressants has reached an all time high this year: 3.5 million in a population of 5 million. It seems to be a high amount for a country the size of Scotland. The politicians and medical professionals are so concerned about these statistics that they are searching for the causes of what appears to be an epidemic amongst Scots.
Some people are suggesting it has to do with the lack of sunlight in winter; others are saying that modern-day stress has reached unbearable heights; and even others are expressing that too high expectations and too little opportunities cause most Scots to be depressed. Some have even stated that it’s because of a deep-rooted dour Calvinism which has impaired Scottish spirits since the time of John Knox.
Now I am no psychotherapist or psychiatrist, but if people are really that depressed, then I believe they are suffering from a sickness in their souls. Surely, as well as good counseling and balanced medication, isn’t this an opportunity for the Church to proclaim the Good News and restore Christ’s Hope to the people? Is it just me, or is there a correlation between the increase of Western secularism and the emptiness Scots people are experiencing in their lives? It may be too simple to say that the Church has all the answers, but wouldn’t a spiritual reawakening, a recommitment to Christ, and a refocusing on serving others for God’s Kingdom help overcome the need for most of these medications?
You know, the New Testament Christians faced lots of opposition, conflict, and persecution, but preachers like Paul wrote about hope which made the Church eager to serve Christ and await the blessing of the Holy Spirit. It seems to be that they had an endurance, perseverance, and fortitude that we have sadly forgotten.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, depression is a hard burden to bear and many people in our society seem to be wrestling with it. Come among us, Precious Lord, take us by the hand and refresh our weary souls. In Your Holy Name, we eagerly await and pray. Amen.
I was reading a newspaper report from Scotland this morning that reveals the number of prescriptions for anti-depressants has reached an all time high this year: 3.5 million in a population of 5 million. It seems to be a high amount for a country the size of Scotland. The politicians and medical professionals are so concerned about these statistics that they are searching for the causes of what appears to be an epidemic amongst Scots.
Some people are suggesting it has to do with the lack of sunlight in winter; others are saying that modern-day stress has reached unbearable heights; and even others are expressing that too high expectations and too little opportunities cause most Scots to be depressed. Some have even stated that it’s because of a deep-rooted dour Calvinism which has impaired Scottish spirits since the time of John Knox.
Now I am no psychotherapist or psychiatrist, but if people are really that depressed, then I believe they are suffering from a sickness in their souls. Surely, as well as good counseling and balanced medication, isn’t this an opportunity for the Church to proclaim the Good News and restore Christ’s Hope to the people? Is it just me, or is there a correlation between the increase of Western secularism and the emptiness Scots people are experiencing in their lives? It may be too simple to say that the Church has all the answers, but wouldn’t a spiritual reawakening, a recommitment to Christ, and a refocusing on serving others for God’s Kingdom help overcome the need for most of these medications?
You know, the New Testament Christians faced lots of opposition, conflict, and persecution, but preachers like Paul wrote about hope which made the Church eager to serve Christ and await the blessing of the Holy Spirit. It seems to be that they had an endurance, perseverance, and fortitude that we have sadly forgotten.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, depression is a hard burden to bear and many people in our society seem to be wrestling with it. Come among us, Precious Lord, take us by the hand and refresh our weary souls. In Your Holy Name, we eagerly await and pray. Amen.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Loving Neighbors
Romans 13:10 Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
Our family grew up in what was known as an inter-war house, which meant that it was built between 1919-1939. It’s hard to describe because I’ve never seen anything like it over here in the United States. It was a large bungalow where four families lived. Two families, like my own, lived downstairs with front doors and small gardens. The other two families lived upstairs with side doors and side gardens. Everyone shared the massive backyard, which was usually used as a common area for drying the laundry on clothes lines. Needless to say, everyone lived in close proximity and as our family were the only young ones in the building, we got into a lot of trouble from our neighbors for being too loud, too boisterous, and too wild.
One particular neighbor seemed to hate my sisters and brothers because she was always scolding us. She never smiled and was constantly criticizing my mom, who was doing her best to raise six kids. Eventually, because of all the pressure from this neighbor, my mother cracked and went absolutely crazy throwing things all around the house and cursing loudly to the ceiling. I was there at the time and thought that my mom was going to kill the woman upstairs. That’s when her mental illness seemed to start and, to this date, it has been the saddest day of my life.
For most of my teenage years, I found it hard to trust or respect any of my neighbors. I thought that the upstairs family had caused my mother’s nervous breakdown. It was only years later that I finally realized she had been suffering from schizophrenia since she was a troubled teenager. All that my neighbor did was bring her mental condition to the surface. No one was really to blame. It just happened.
As Christians, we are called to be good neighbors, but in these days of privacy and seclusion, we’re all making it very hard for people to get to know one another. Maybe that’s why we feel lonely and vulnerable at times. Perhaps as we isolate ourselves and do our own thing, we’re losing our connections with real people, real neighbors, and real home owners next door.
So this Christmas, I’m going to try, if the weather allows it, to sit on my front porch and say “Hi” to my neighbors. I guess if Jesus could leave heaven and be on the front porch of humanity, I should try to do the same. Who knows, perhaps then I might just experience the real meaning of Christmas.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we all talk about being good neighbors but we don’t really practice it. We all would like to live in a world where people greet each other and share peace with one another, but we don’t want it to start with us. Help us to overcome our shyness and enable us to reach out to those around us, who are our neighbors and who are God’s children, too. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Our family grew up in what was known as an inter-war house, which meant that it was built between 1919-1939. It’s hard to describe because I’ve never seen anything like it over here in the United States. It was a large bungalow where four families lived. Two families, like my own, lived downstairs with front doors and small gardens. The other two families lived upstairs with side doors and side gardens. Everyone shared the massive backyard, which was usually used as a common area for drying the laundry on clothes lines. Needless to say, everyone lived in close proximity and as our family were the only young ones in the building, we got into a lot of trouble from our neighbors for being too loud, too boisterous, and too wild.
One particular neighbor seemed to hate my sisters and brothers because she was always scolding us. She never smiled and was constantly criticizing my mom, who was doing her best to raise six kids. Eventually, because of all the pressure from this neighbor, my mother cracked and went absolutely crazy throwing things all around the house and cursing loudly to the ceiling. I was there at the time and thought that my mom was going to kill the woman upstairs. That’s when her mental illness seemed to start and, to this date, it has been the saddest day of my life.
For most of my teenage years, I found it hard to trust or respect any of my neighbors. I thought that the upstairs family had caused my mother’s nervous breakdown. It was only years later that I finally realized she had been suffering from schizophrenia since she was a troubled teenager. All that my neighbor did was bring her mental condition to the surface. No one was really to blame. It just happened.
As Christians, we are called to be good neighbors, but in these days of privacy and seclusion, we’re all making it very hard for people to get to know one another. Maybe that’s why we feel lonely and vulnerable at times. Perhaps as we isolate ourselves and do our own thing, we’re losing our connections with real people, real neighbors, and real home owners next door.
So this Christmas, I’m going to try, if the weather allows it, to sit on my front porch and say “Hi” to my neighbors. I guess if Jesus could leave heaven and be on the front porch of humanity, I should try to do the same. Who knows, perhaps then I might just experience the real meaning of Christmas.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we all talk about being good neighbors but we don’t really practice it. We all would like to live in a world where people greet each other and share peace with one another, but we don’t want it to start with us. Help us to overcome our shyness and enable us to reach out to those around us, who are our neighbors and who are God’s children, too. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Gift Giving
Matthew 7:11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!
Most of us are getting caught up with the hype of Christmas giving right now. We’ve probably got lists and stores to shop. We’ve may have been searching online and getting things delivered to our home. We all want to buy something nice for our families and friends, so that we can enjoy watching them being glad as they receive our gifts. It’s the “Ah!” factor that we’re looking for in a gift. We want to feel as though we’ve chosen the perfect gift, the best gift, the most wonderful gift for the loved ones in our lives.
And yet, no matter how pretty we make the bows, choose the wrapping, or pay for these gifts, they only last a little while. There’s no gift that last’s forever despite what the merchants and manufacturers may tell us. All the gifts that are given in Christmas 2006 will eventually fade, fail, and turn to dust. Most of them will end up in a Goodwill store at some time. And in the end all of them will become part of a landfill, never to be remembered, never to be repaired or replayed.
Perhaps you’re thinking that I’m sounding like Ebenezer Scrooge this morning by taking all the fun out of Christmas. That’s not what I’m writing. I’m trying to remind us that there are eternal gifts which time cannot wear out and people cannot destroy. It’s the gifts of faith, hope, and love which come from our Father in heaven and are brought to us each Christmas by Jesus. Those gifts are everlasting and more important than any Elmo, X-box, or expensive item we may buy for our loved ones. For, to paraphrase a scriptural verse, what’s the point of giving someone everything for Christmas, if it adds nothing to their soul?
This Christmas, as well as the plethora of gifts, let’s also take time to write letters and cards to go along with them which tell the story of Christ and express our faith in Jesus. For no matter what or how much we give, a Gospel message is the greatest gift we can give to all whom we love.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, this is the sacred time of Your everlasting joy when all the earth proclaims Your holy coming. This Christmas help us to let others know who You are in our lives and how much Your love means to us. Perhaps, Lord, if we are sincere and genuine about expressing our faith, that same, simple and everlasting gift of the Gospel will take hold in their hearts, too. In Your Holy name, we pray. Amen.
Most of us are getting caught up with the hype of Christmas giving right now. We’ve probably got lists and stores to shop. We’ve may have been searching online and getting things delivered to our home. We all want to buy something nice for our families and friends, so that we can enjoy watching them being glad as they receive our gifts. It’s the “Ah!” factor that we’re looking for in a gift. We want to feel as though we’ve chosen the perfect gift, the best gift, the most wonderful gift for the loved ones in our lives.
And yet, no matter how pretty we make the bows, choose the wrapping, or pay for these gifts, they only last a little while. There’s no gift that last’s forever despite what the merchants and manufacturers may tell us. All the gifts that are given in Christmas 2006 will eventually fade, fail, and turn to dust. Most of them will end up in a Goodwill store at some time. And in the end all of them will become part of a landfill, never to be remembered, never to be repaired or replayed.
Perhaps you’re thinking that I’m sounding like Ebenezer Scrooge this morning by taking all the fun out of Christmas. That’s not what I’m writing. I’m trying to remind us that there are eternal gifts which time cannot wear out and people cannot destroy. It’s the gifts of faith, hope, and love which come from our Father in heaven and are brought to us each Christmas by Jesus. Those gifts are everlasting and more important than any Elmo, X-box, or expensive item we may buy for our loved ones. For, to paraphrase a scriptural verse, what’s the point of giving someone everything for Christmas, if it adds nothing to their soul?
This Christmas, as well as the plethora of gifts, let’s also take time to write letters and cards to go along with them which tell the story of Christ and express our faith in Jesus. For no matter what or how much we give, a Gospel message is the greatest gift we can give to all whom we love.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, this is the sacred time of Your everlasting joy when all the earth proclaims Your holy coming. This Christmas help us to let others know who You are in our lives and how much Your love means to us. Perhaps, Lord, if we are sincere and genuine about expressing our faith, that same, simple and everlasting gift of the Gospel will take hold in their hearts, too. In Your Holy name, we pray. Amen.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Today's Radio Show
On today’s Seven Days show, Rick Dunn, senior pastor at Middlebrook Fellowship Church, Knoxville and Mark Moreland, Youth & Missions pastor at Central Baptist, Bearden will be our studio guests. We’ll also be talking to Mike Erre, from Costa Mesa, CA, who has written a controversial book called “The Jesus of Suburbia,” which challenges our comfortable and cozy notions about Christ. Have we tamed the Son of God to fit our lifestyles?
We’ll also be looking at the new pro-life Tennessee license plate. Should the government be involved in the anti-abortion debate; and just where does the extra money for the license go?
And finally, we’ll be discussing the Pope’s visit to Turkey – is this the road to religious peace, or just another example of Christians caving in to Islamic pressure?
Join us at 4pm on WVLZ 1180 AM and WKCE 1120 AM or on the internet at www.southernrootsradio.com. Call in to the show at (865)-456-2148 or toll-free at 1-888-859-1180, or leave a message in the online guestbook.
We’ll also be looking at the new pro-life Tennessee license plate. Should the government be involved in the anti-abortion debate; and just where does the extra money for the license go?
And finally, we’ll be discussing the Pope’s visit to Turkey – is this the road to religious peace, or just another example of Christians caving in to Islamic pressure?
Join us at 4pm on WVLZ 1180 AM and WKCE 1120 AM or on the internet at www.southernrootsradio.com. Call in to the show at (865)-456-2148 or toll-free at 1-888-859-1180, or leave a message in the online guestbook.
Judging Within
(You can listen to the audio commentary by double clicking here http://hometown.aol.com/traqair/Todaysdev.mp3 - if you get a page of symbols, don't worry, just double click the link again)
1 Corinthians 5:12 What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
‘Judging’ has become a dirty word in the church and is deemed to be both theologically and socially incorrect. Paul would have a hard time being an elder or member of any church today, never mind a pastor or a preacher. We don’t like being accused, judged or blamed for any of our questionable actions, selfish decisions, or sinful acts these days. Absolutism and accountability are outdated in the church; independence and individuality are in.
Now I don’t like being judged either. I’ve made some terrible mistakes in my life and as a pastor, so I can’t point a finger or criticize anyone. In fact, I’m more into allowing second, third and seventy-seventh chances than calling out people for failing. But Paul was trying to establish a church in a hostile area, so discipline within the congregation was vital for its effective witness in the community. This is why he emphasized judging from within the faith community because the outside world would judge the church by the standards it maintained. If New Testament Christians were to be any different from the notorious Corinthians, then they had to be exclusively moral, just, and faithful.
Today, our churches are finding it difficult to remain relevant and to maintain a meaningful existence in our modern communities. It’s probably because we are no different from the people around us. In fact faith is treated more like an extra-curricular or leisure pursuit activity rather than a life-altering and heart-changing event. Perhaps, in order to regain the world’s attention, we need to re-examine our own lives, truly repent of our past mistakes, and offer a genuine hope to people around us. If we began to judge ourselves and seek God’s forgiveness rather than condemn the world and abandon it to hell, we might start to have a positive affect on society once more.
I guess that’s why the most perfect child in existence was born in a dirty stable. In the midst of all the depravity, dinginess, and darkness, He brought us God’s light.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, none of us are perfect and, as each day passes, we make more mistakes. Forgive us for being unfaithful to You and for being led astray. Help us to be truly humble and keep us from condemning the world, which God loved so much that He gave You as its sacrificial Lamb. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
1 Corinthians 5:12 What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
‘Judging’ has become a dirty word in the church and is deemed to be both theologically and socially incorrect. Paul would have a hard time being an elder or member of any church today, never mind a pastor or a preacher. We don’t like being accused, judged or blamed for any of our questionable actions, selfish decisions, or sinful acts these days. Absolutism and accountability are outdated in the church; independence and individuality are in.
Now I don’t like being judged either. I’ve made some terrible mistakes in my life and as a pastor, so I can’t point a finger or criticize anyone. In fact, I’m more into allowing second, third and seventy-seventh chances than calling out people for failing. But Paul was trying to establish a church in a hostile area, so discipline within the congregation was vital for its effective witness in the community. This is why he emphasized judging from within the faith community because the outside world would judge the church by the standards it maintained. If New Testament Christians were to be any different from the notorious Corinthians, then they had to be exclusively moral, just, and faithful.
Today, our churches are finding it difficult to remain relevant and to maintain a meaningful existence in our modern communities. It’s probably because we are no different from the people around us. In fact faith is treated more like an extra-curricular or leisure pursuit activity rather than a life-altering and heart-changing event. Perhaps, in order to regain the world’s attention, we need to re-examine our own lives, truly repent of our past mistakes, and offer a genuine hope to people around us. If we began to judge ourselves and seek God’s forgiveness rather than condemn the world and abandon it to hell, we might start to have a positive affect on society once more.
I guess that’s why the most perfect child in existence was born in a dirty stable. In the midst of all the depravity, dinginess, and darkness, He brought us God’s light.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, none of us are perfect and, as each day passes, we make more mistakes. Forgive us for being unfaithful to You and for being led astray. Help us to be truly humble and keep us from condemning the world, which God loved so much that He gave You as its sacrificial Lamb. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
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