September 15 devotion - A Simpler Path

Acts 2:46         Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.

            I envy the First Christians. Their faith seemed very simple and straightforward. They worshipped and studied each day, and made time to frequently share meals and break bread together. They weren’t encumbered with almost two thousand years of ecclesiastical history, denominational divisions, or cultural conflicts. They just simply, purely, and innocently practiced their faith in cheerful, faithful, and joyful ways.

            Where did we go wrong? What moved us off the simpler path to Christ? Christians today are fiercer than ever and fighting battles that are not important. Whenever I read something belligerently written by some Christian group, whether they be conservatives or progressives, which berates the other side, I feel bad inside. In the past, I’ve created and contributed to these self-righteous invectives, but I’ve now reached a point where I ask myself this: what does it prove? How does it help Christ’s Kingdom? What do people outside of the Church think of us?

            I’d like to get back to those simpler days of sharing the Gospel and breaking bread together. I’d like things between all Christians to change, so I know that it has to begin with me. I may not get it right all of the time; I hope I don’t wander from the simpler path, but I know that the Church – whether local, national, or even international – can’t go on beating itself with its own stick. The world is broken and we need to be healers sent from Christ, but we can only do that if we honestly heal ourselves of our self-sustained prejudice, arrogance, and ignorance.

Questions for reflection

What is the role of the Church in the world? How does it present that role in my local community?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, we are all sinners saved by Your grace, but sometimes we forget that we are essentially unworthy and unholy. Redirect our lives and re-position us on a simpler path of faith. Cleanse us of ecclesiastical arrogance and cultural conflict. Teach us Your Way, so that we can faithfully present Your Truth and live Your Life. In Your Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.

John Stuart is currently the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Come and join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 11:00 AM. You will be made very welcome :)

Today’s image is one of John’s latest drawings. It’s called “Spirit of Autumn.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on this link: Spirit.

September 13 - What is Church?

Luke 13:19     Jesus said, “The Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air perched in its branches.” 

            Christianity is the world’s largest faith. About one-third of our planet’s population is connected to Christ and each year that number is growing all over the Earth. Beginning on a hillside in Galilee two thousand years ago, with just a couple of hundred of followers, Christ’s ministry has expanded and increased throughout the centuries. In every nation on this planet, there is a Christian community. The Gospel has been preached in every corner on Earth. The mustard seed of God’s Kingdom, which was planted so long ago, now has people of every nation living in its branches. There are currently more Christians on Earth than at any other time in humankind’s history. Christ’s life, work, and ministry continue to grow. It is a faith that cannot be stopped; it is a teaching that cannot be curtailed.

            Churches are springing up everywhere. Old buildings may be closing, but new fellowships of faith are being planted. Christ’s mission never stops and despite what Western media or anti-religious groups express about the decline of Christianity, the numbers across the world prove them to be false prophets. Western Christianity is being transformed and a rebirth of faith is being experienced. The church changes as each century comes and goes, but one thing remains constant: Christ’s people are growing numerically and spiritually across this planet in every generation.

            Sometimes we Western Christians get downhearted about declining congregational numbers and moral standards of society. We get hung up on finances and money instead of being inspired by faith and mission. All that we are negatively experiencing are the birth pangs of a new 21st-century church. Christ will not let His people down; Christ will not let His mission die.

So let’s rejoice because throughout the Earth more people will be brought closer to Christ today and give their hearts to His Kingdom.

Questions for personal reflection

What is Church? Where are new centers of Christianity emerging in my community?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, Your work on Earth continues each day and new souls are saved for Your Kingdom. Thank You for allowing us to be a part of Your Great Commission. Help us to reach out to other people in charitable and cheerful ways, so that they may also be drawn closer to You. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Come and join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 11:00 AM. You will be made very welcome :)

Today’s image is one of John’s stained glass designs depicting Psalm 85. It was once used at a church/religious conference facilitated by Duke University. If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link:

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2541/3704016750_70147e967d_b.jpg

Encouraging Words - Acts 20:2

Acts 20:2 Paul traveled through that area, speaking many words of encouragement to the people, and finally arrived in Greece. (NIV)

We are living in pretty discouraging times. Our people are divided and our leaders are not working together. Terrible acts of violence have been committed and hatred is on the increase. Good folks everywhere are feeling insecure and most people are looking for real solutions to our problems. All this strife is adding to our stress which fragments our relationships, leaving us isolated and vulnerable. No one seems to know how to fix things and heal our problems. Our souls are damaged and our hearts are crushed. We just need something or someone to say the right things, give the right word, and point us in the right direction.

This is the Great Commission of Christ’s Church in the 21^st century. We still have a pertinent platform where words of encouragement can bring people closer to God and, in the process, bring us together. How we express those words is very important to the folks around us. For encouragement to work, we have to be sensitive and supportive. If we present Christ in compassionate ways, we will help others who are struggling with life. If we share our confidence in God’s love, we will enable others to find refuge in Him. It all depends whether we are willing, like Paul of old, to be vessels of Christ’s mercy and grace. If we choose to channel His Loving Spirit, we will help others to overcome their fears and rediscover the inner strength which faith in Christ empowers.

Wherever you are today, be an encourager. Whatever you do, let it be done in love.

Point to ponder

How does God encourage me? How can I share this with others?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we can grow weary of the world and fearful of its fallen ways. Enable us to overcome our current concerns by placing our hopes, dreams, and lives into Your hands. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to ask questions or make comments about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest winter drawings called ‘Red Cardinal in Snow.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Cardinal.

Church Meeting Devotions

September is usually when local churches begin their calendar year. Programs and projects, classes and congregational gatherings which have been set aside for summer, get back into their full swing. As the people of God gather for different events - classes, studies, dinners, team meetings, and boards, pastors and other church leaders are often requested to begin the events with a short devotional.

Over the years that I have served as a pastor, I have written hundreds of devotionals which are short and to the point. I've used them with the congregation I serve, as well as other meetings in other churches. years ago, I had to hand write or print out those devotions, however, with the advent of tablets and kindles, I can now easily carry devotions with me anywhere.

The two e-books that I have written for pastors and church leaders contain 60 devotions each - 120 devotions in total, which is enough to last for several years. They can also be used as discussion starters for any small groups. Each devotion contains a highlighted Bible verse, a short commentary, followed by a quick prayer. All of the devotions have been tried and tested at various functions and gatherings where I was a participant.

Because pastors and churches normally work on tight budgets, I've kept the price down to $1.99 each or the equivalent of 3 cents a devotion :) Those pastors who have purchased these books have enjoyed reading and using them. For your convenience, I have listed them below this post.

May God bless all of your work for the Lord. May all of your hopes and dreams be fulfilled.

God be with you.

Church growth Devotion: A Tale of Two Birds - Philippians 2:13

Today’s readings are: 1 Samuel 2:1-11 and Philippians 2:12-30

Philippians 2:13         For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose. 

Every morning that I commuted to church, I used to take great delight in spotting two beautiful large birds. The first was a red-tailed kite which perched atop an old dead tree, constantly surveying the fields alongside the motorway for small prey. It was, in my opinion, a remarkable bird and often looked both majestic and regal from its high perch.

The second bird was a large grey heron, standing alone in a small pond, continually looking for small frogs or fish to catch and eat. Its beautiful sleek features and feathering always impressed me as I drove by its pond on my way to church.

Recently, the habitats for both birds have been destroyed. The kite’s dead tree was chopped down to make way for a whole new set of ugly office buildings; the heron’s pond has been almost drained and totally devastated by new ‘upgraded’ landscaping. I was both deeply saddened and very annoyed at these changes, as well as being concerned about how both of these birds would cope.

The red kite changed its perching place to another set of trees on the other side of the motorway. It still manages to catch enough prey to feed itself and has adapted almost completely to its new situation. Sadly, the heron still stands on what’s left of the pond and is looking tired, bedraggled, and hungry. If it doesn’t adapt by finding a new pond, I fear it will die.

The two birds have reminded me of what happens to churches when changes affect their work and mission for God. If they get trapped in the past, then they will be hopelessly put in a futile position and subsequently die. If, however, churches manage to cope with change and make the right qualitative adaptations, then they will evolve and live. If they allow God to work within them for His constant purposes in an ever-changing world, they will thrive; if they remain unmoved and unconcerned about what’s currently happening, they will be starved of people and eventually close. The same choice is basically theirs: adapt or expire.

Questions for personal reflection

What changes are currently affecting the church I belong to? Is it adapting or expiring?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, You are the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow, but the world we live in constantly changes. Show us what You are doing in the midst of all these cultural variations and enable us to effectively continue our work for You. In Your Holy Name we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment about today’s message or ask a question, please send John an email to traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John’s bird drawing called “The Lone Grey Fisherman.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link:

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4013/4549011780_35d441be81_b.jpg

Church devotion: Called to Belong - Romans 1:6

Romans 1:6    And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.

Yesterday, we had a couple join our church during the worship service. They have been coming to our congregation for over a year. They were brought to us by God through the Creative Expressions ministry that our church presents. Their teenage daughter is talented and she enjoys being involved in our theater groups. It is a joy to have them all become part of who we are; it is wonderful to give them a place where they each feel that they belong.

            Throughout the week, we all meet people who are just trying to get through life. They struggle with keeping their families together, holding down a job, or advancing their careers. At times, we all feel isolated and vulnerable, overwhelmed and alone. We wonder what life is all about and question whether it has any real meaning. During those ‘ontological’ moments, having a church family can fill the emptiness we experience. Being part of a faith community and finding a place where we belong, can bring about a great deal of well-being to our hearts and minds, as well as our bodies and souls.

            If you’re feeling lonely today, then please think about seeking a regular community of Christ’s people. Allow yourself to be called by Christ to a congregation where you can find meaning and purpose for your life. Permit the Holy Spirit to break down any self-imposed barriers or individual anxieties that you may have about fitting in. Let Jesus do for you what He does best: let Him reach out to you and lead you; let Him restore you and love you.

Questions for personal reflection

Am I currently feeling isolated and alone? Will I allow Jesus to help me find a sacred place where I can belong?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, You know us completely and understand all that we are currently feeling. Take us by the hand and lead us each day. Open our hearts and minds to the blessings of Your Gospel. Allow us to seek and find a community of faith where we can truly belong. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is John’s latest summer drawing, simply called “Sunflower.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3775/9286182601_90208dc399_b.jpg

Church devotions: Numbers - Daniel 7:14

Daniel 7:14     He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.

            Yesterday, the annual statistics (for the denomination that I belong to) were published and they are not very encouraging. In the PCUSA, we decreased by 102,000 people in our total membership during the last year, which is equivalent to a 5% reduction in numbers. Several reasons were given for the reduction, which you can read at the following link: http://www.pcusa.org/news/2013/5/30/stated-clerk-releases-pcusa-2012-statistics/

No matter how we interpret the statistics, the reality of Western Christianity is this: even though we are living longer and the overall population is growing, the mainstream Christian church is declining instead of growing. From my perspective of pastoring for over 25 years in both Scotland and the United States, the more that the Church appeases or reflects Society, the less effective and relevant it actually becomes. Despite embracing many cultural changes, Western Christianity has no attraction for many people.

This may be the reality over here, but around the rest of the world, the Church continues to grow. Christianity, for all that it is maligned by Western Society, is still the fastest growing faith in Africa, Asia, and South America. Millions of people in far off places make personal decisions each year to give their lives to Christ, even though it may cost them their families, their careers and, in some severe cases, their lives. Christ’s Kingdom, as promised in the Book of Daniel, can never be destroyed. All over the world, different people and communities, nations and languages are praising God for their Savior Jesus. They are growing because, unlike us, they are willing to submit their lives to God’s Authority, Word, and Teaching. In decades to come, they will see our Western lands as mission fields, and bring back the Gospel of Christ to a wayward society that increasingly seeks to serve and idolize itself.

Questions for personal reflection

To what do I attribute the decline of Western Christianity? Do I really understand that Christianity is a global faith and not just a westernized one?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, help us to see the Church as You see it, made up of people and nations from all over the Earth. Speak to our spirits through a Global Gospel and lead us away from self-serving and self-love to selfless serving and sacred love. In Your Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to ask questions or make comments about today’s message, please send him an email to traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John’s symbolic denominational drawings called ‘A New Day.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7186/6857135507_2823395f41_b.jpg

Church Growth Devotion - Witnesses to Our People - Acts 13:31

Acts 13:31       And for many days Jesus was seen by those who had traveled with him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now his witnesses to our people.

As Christians, we are meant to be Christ’s witnesses to other people. We are called by God to mainly serve Jesus in our local communities, so that others may be attracted to Christ. In churches, congregations, and house groups around the world, Christians are constantly developing programs to go out into the world around them, bringing their neighbors the good news of salvation, and compassionately supporting them in times of trouble, distress, and suffering.

The purpose of any church is to proclaim the Gospel and make disciples. This involves learning about God in worship and Bible study. We build up our knowledge of God’s words and ways, so that we will be confident about what Christ is saying and doing in the local community. We then find practical ways of applying what we learn, so that we can be effective witnesses who care about the critical needs of others. Every community has its different groups of people in need, which is why there are so many different churches in the world. Churches don’t exist to peddle a competitive Christianity. They are alive in order to augment, embrace, and support the constant work of the Holy Spirit, both at home and abroad. We are all called together to be Christ’s witnesses to our people.

Questions for personal reflection

What ministries and missions, both at home and abroad, do I feel called to support? How am I witnessing for Christ in my life?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, You have called us into the service of Your Kingdom through the positive words and ways of other people. We are a part of Your Church because someone led us to You through their commitment, service, and devotion. Enable and encourage us to find similar ways to attract other people to You through our witnessing and support. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, TN. If you would like to ask a question or make a comment about today’s message, please send him an email to traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest Pentecost drawings. It’s called “Pentecost Mandala” and is a stained glass design of the Holy Spirit as a dove. If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8538/8696570270_10fdb48c7d_b.jpg

Bible devotions: 84 Million - Exodus 1:12-13

Exodus 1:12-13          But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and spread; so the Egyptians came to dread the Israelites and worked them ruthlessly. 

Sometimes when people are oppressed because of their faith, they grow in numbers. Christianity in China is a good example of this. In 1949 when the Communists took control of China, there were only about 500,000 Christians in the nation. After persecuting the church for more than sixty years, how many Christians are there in China? 84 million.

It appears that when Christianity is backed into a corner and almost annihilated, it finds a new way out and grows. Perhaps at some future point in our decadent and deviant Western society, we will see a real re-emergence of the church because Christians will once again stand up for their beliefs, instead of embracing the culture which is causing a passive church to wither and decay.

Long ago, the Egyptians used a form of genocide in an attempt to wipe out the Jewish community in their midst. It didn’t work because God’s will could not be thwarted by mere politics, no matter how powerful the leader of the Egyptians appeared to be. Moses was predestined to be born and become a great leader of his people. God desired this, so human wickedness would not prevail.

In years to come, missionaries will be sent from Africa and Asia, India and China to Europe and the Americas in order to reclaim churches and Christians for Christ. God’s work will not be undone and Christ’s words will always endure. Our role in our churches today is to be faithful to God’s Word and serve Christ truly, even when it is unpopular. If we do that then a people yet unborn may be reclaimed for Christ and His Kingdom.

Questions for personal reflection

Has my faith grown in times of adversity? Have I personally shared my Christian beliefs with the upcoming generation?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, all over the world people are praising Your Name and believing in Your Words. New churches are springing up in hostile areas and Your mission is being accomplished across this planet. Help us to strengthen our faith, in the good times as well as the bad. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to make a comment or ask a question of today’s message, please send him an email to traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is another of John’s 2012 Advent drawings simply called “Advent.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8063/8192865892_9d85b325b4_b.jpg

Daily devotion: A Good Movie - Luke 2:17-18

Luke 2:17-18              When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.

Whenever I see a good movie, I like to share my delight with other people. I do it because I want them to enjoy a similar satisfying experience. My wife Evelyn and I enjoy going to the movies on a regular basis and it helps us to relate to one another. Some of our first dates, before we got married, consisted in going to the movies, so I guess we’re still sustaining that mutual interest and bond that we share together.

Faith is supposed to be like that, but because of keeping common courtesies and retaining social boundaries, we’re not so inclined to share our faith with others. We’ll readily tell people about a good book, great movie, or riveting new television series, but when it comes to relating about an ‘ah ha’ moment in church last Sunday, we’ll probably keep it to ourselves and inwardly reflect on it.

It’s a shame that we do that because all sorts of people in our world, which is such a broken place, need to hear about God’s presence still being felt in today’s church. They want to know that God still reaches into the hearts and minds of believers. They want to hear that in the midst of all the fear, anxiety, and confusion around us, God is still in control. When the shepherds went back to the hills after seeing the baby Jesus, they were singing, rejoicing, and exuberant about the Good News they had personally experienced. As they told their story to everyone they encountered, the people that they met were amazed.

Wouldn’t the world be a wonderful place, if we allowed ourselves to share our joy in the Lord?

Questions for personal reflection

What makes me delighted to be a Christian? How can I share this with other people in my life?

Prayer:                        Lord Jesus, You are God’s Gift to the world and we are joyful because You are constantly with us. Help us to joyfully share the Good News of forgiveness and salvation with others. Prevent us from keeping the blessings of the Gospel to ourselves. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of John’s digital glass Psalm drawings (Psalm 24). He has been tentatively invited to present and display some of his Psalmic art in Dallas, Texas this Fall. If you would like to view the Psalms art project online, please click on the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/traqair57/sets/72157603288751629/

Today's Devotion: Swords and Clubs - Mark 14:48

Mark 14:48     “Am I leading a rebellion," said Jesus, "that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me?”

For the past nine months, I’ve been reading some sad stories about churches and pastors who have been treated badly by their religious authorities. Some ministers have been quickly dismissed and some congregations have been locked out of their buildings. Instead of showing understanding and grace, authority figures are displaying indignation and contempt. Rather than seeking reconciliation by arbitration, both sides get locked into a war of words that destroys Christ’s witness in the local community. If there are tears of sadness in heaven over these acts of unkindness, then there must also be tears of laughter in hell. Instead of showing Christ’s compassion in these trying times, we are all guilty of brandishing the devil’s swords and clubs.

Some days I wonder where it will all end up. Will we fatally fracture the Western Church with our social issues and creeping universalism that many people will just give up and forsake their faith? I’m seeing diminishing congregations across the land and churches struggling to survive. If accepting the present trends in culture is so good for the Church, then why are our numbers still going down at an alarming rate?

And then I read today’s Gospel passage (Mark 14:43-52) and I realize that it’s all part of the Great Plan. There is no revival without betrayal; there is no salvation without the crucifixion; there is no resurrection without persecution.

Questions for personal reflection

How is my faith impacted by society? When and where do I betray Christ?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, having faith in You is not easy. Across the generations and throughout the nations, Christians have struggled with cultural demands, as opposed to eternal commands. Help us to be honest with Your Word and keep us from allowing the devil to diminish the gracious witness of Your Church among ourselves, as well as throughout the world. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest ‘art nouveau’ roses drawings. It’s called ‘Lifetime Joy’ and is drawn in the style of Scottish designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh, whose work inspired Frank Lloyd Wright. If you would like to view a larger version, please click the following link: http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8148/7299741342_ea6f7664c3_b.jpg

John also has note cards and gifts available with these new designs which you can view at the following online store: http://www.cafepress.com/stushienotes

Short devotion: Sleeping Sheep - Mark 13:36

Mark 13:36     If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping.

There’s an old joke told about a Vatican priest rushing in to the Pope’s throne room in Rome and shouting, “ The Lord Jesus has returned to Earth! What will we do? What will we do?”

The Pope simply replies: “Look busy.”

I still laugh at that joke, but the older I get, I also understand the fundamental truth behind it. What if Jesus returned to Earth today, would we be ready or caught sleeping?

Because we live in a society where instant gratification and unhindered leisure are important to us, we may be caught off guard when Christ does return. We keep taking shallow short cuts with our faith and are constantly distracted from making a deeper connection to God via worship, meditation, prayer, and study. We want our theology to be thin and palatable; we want our Bibles to be read in short bytes and simple verses; and we want our worship to be convenient and passive, instead of challenging and passionate. In other words, we want a cozy, comfortable faith to soothe our spirits and anaesthetize our souls.

In John Bunyan’s amazing book, ‘The Pilgrim’s Progress,’ the hero is called ‘Christian’ and he endures a harsh journey from the City of Destruction to the Gates of Heaven. Just before he reaches the end of the journey, he has to pass through a dangerous pathway where many fellow travelers are sleeping. They are sleeping because they have taken their faith for granted and will sadly never finish the journey, or enter into God’s Kingdom. Christian has to steel himself and summon all of his faith resources in order to overcome such a subtle temptation. Only by persevering faithfully, does Christian win the battle and get into Heaven. He is alert and awake for the Lord’s Return; he is heartily welcomed and cheerfully accepted into the Lord’s Domain.

Question for personal reflection

Am I ready for the Lord’s Return or am I guilty of falling asleep and taking Him for granted?

Prayer:                        Lord Jesus, You could re-appear any day now and yet we live as though it won’t happen in our lifetime. Forgive us for disregarding the teaching of the scriptures and the challenges of the Gospel. Keep us alert and ready, as well as eagerly awaiting Your Promised Return. In Your Holy Name, we expectantly pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest lectionary drawing called “Water and Spirit.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8005/7259851996_ad06a17b9f_h.jpg

Pentecost devotion: Thrown Down - Mark 13:2

Mark 13:2       "Do you see all these great buildings?" replied Jesus. "Not one stone here will be left on another; each one will be thrown down."

It was a shocking thing to say, but Jesus said it any way. When He declared that all the great Jerusalem buildings, including the Temple, would be thrown down, He was prophesying about an event that would occur almost forty years later. It was shocking because Jerusalem had just been through an architectural renaissance of its city. The great buildings and the new Temple were proudly admired by the Jews. Some of their national prestige had been restored by these new worship centers and edifices. Jesus was spoiling the celebrations and puncturing Jewish pride.

At His trial, Christ’s words would be used against Him and bring about His execution by both the religious and political authorities. His words would be treated as both blasphemy and treason, causing Him to be arrested, tortured, and painfully executed.

Sometimes I wonder if Jesus would say the same about our own structures, edifices, and policies. Maybe we have taken great pride in building up a Church that doesn’t have long to exist. Perhaps we are pinning our pride to a system that is ready to crumble, or a theology that will take us down a dead end. This is why it is important to focus on the Holy Spirit at this time of Pentecost. What is He saying to us? What is He working towards? What is He asking us to do?

After Jerusalem and its great buildings were torn down in AD70 by the Romans, Judaism was reformed by the rabbis at Javneh in AD93 and Christianity emerged as a new faith. Perhaps then, we should be asking ourselves this question: if our church buildings and structures were to collapse within a generation, how would our faith reform and what new ways to Christ would emerge?

Prayer:                        Lord Jesus, You are the Foundation and Corner Stone of our faith. Build our people into churches of compassion, truth, and mission. Give us the understanding to see the Way ahead and help us to embrace the Holy Spirit as He reshapes, reforms, and renews Your Church on Earth. In Your sacred Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. if you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest Pentecost drawing called “Spirit on Fire.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7077/7251220410_933cbb13fa_b.jpg

Pentecost devotions: Journey of Joy

Today's Bible reading: Genesis 11:27-32

Genesis 11:31 Terah took his son Abram, his grandson Lot son of Haran, and his daughter-in-law Sarai, the wife of his son Abram, and together they set out from Ur of the Chaldeans to go to Canaan. But when they came to Haran, they settled there.

Last Sunday morning, after the worship service, we held a special ceremony to re-dedicate the church bell. It was a beautiful day and a wonderful event. We took time to remember one of our dearest elders and friends, as well as delighting in the official opening of the new site for our church bell.

The church bell goes back to the founding of our congregation and is the oldest artifact that we possess. For almost seven generations, it has been used to call the faithful to worship on Sunday mornings. It has been heard by Scots-Irish immigrants of the late nineteenth century. It proclaimed the ending of both the First and Second World Wars. It remained with us throughout the turbulent sixties and seventies, and now it has been restored in the 21^st century to a beautiful location next to the front entrance. All being well, it will outlive the present congregation and, who knows, it may one day herald the Second Coming of Christ to the Earth.

The story of the first Erin congregation is similar to the biblical account of Abram and Sarai. The Erin people also left the land of their birth and journeyed thousands of miles to settle in a place of promises. With hard work and determination, true grit and a focused faith, they carved out a living and eventually settled here in Knoxville, Tennessee. They called their new church ‘Erin,’ which is the ancient Gaelic word for Ireland. They planted a congregation and sewed seeds of faith which are still bearing fruit today. Just like the patriarchs of old, their work has been rewarded and their faithfulness has been blessed. The journey of joy continues; the mission of Christ goes on.

Questions for personal reflection

How has the faith of past generations influenced and affected me? What am I doing with that faith today in order to ensure that it will be passed on to future generations?

Prayer:            Lord God, you are the Maker of Time and the Shaper of History. You have raised up generations of faithful men and women to serve the continuing ministry and constant mission of Your Son Jesus Christ. Thank You for allowing us to be a part of Christ’s work on Earth. In Your Holy Name, we thankfully pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest Pentecost drawings called “Spirit-2012.” Its creation involves paper sculpting, wax crayons, and a scanner. If you would like to view a larger version, please click here: http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8026/7217562558_43d588ee31_b.jpg

(It’s also available as a t-shirt at John’s CafePress website at http://www.cafepress.com/stushietees )

Sunday devotions: Hired Hands or Higher Hand? John 10:11-18

Today's Lectionary Reading: John 10:11-18

John 10:12     The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. 

I read a very sad statistic this morning and it has bothered me since that time. According to a 2008 survey of a mainstream denomination, 54% of pastors did not believe that Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation. That was four years ago, so I now suspect that the number will be about 57 - 60% of pastors.

Why is this happening? Any business that employed sales people who did not fully believe in the product would soon go under. Any sports team that did not have players who believed in the coach would keep on losing. And any church that has a pastor who does not believe Christ is the World’s only Savior is doomed to fail because congregations, with shepherds who believe in nothing, always end up believing in anything.

I am fortunate to lead a congregation of folks who try to put Christ at the center of their lives. They know Who He is and all that He has done for them. They understand that they have faults and sins like everyone else on Earth, but they also believe that the grace of Christ saves them from being eternally separated from God. If I didn’t believe 100% in Christ being the Good Shepherd who calls everyone to His flock in order to be forgiven and restored to God through Him alone, then I would create havoc with their beliefs, confuse the minds of the congregation, and eventually scatter the sheep. I would only be a hired hand and not influenced at all by a Higher Hand.

Any business that employs sales people who do not fully believe in the product is doomed to fail. Any branch of Christendom that ordains pastors who do not fully believe in Christ being the Only Savior of the World is destined to diminish and, sadly, eventually die.

Hired hands or the Higher Hand – which leads the church we serve?

Prayer:                        Lord Jesus, we play around in our minds with notions, ideas, and opinions that are self-serving, self-fabricated, and self-centered. You died for those sins and, deep within our hearts, we know that only You have the key to unlock Heaven’s Door. Forgive us for failing to believe in You and for allowing the world to distract and deceive us. Help us today to fully accept that You are the Good Shepherd and that when we listen to Your voice, we find salvation. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest Pentecost drawing. It’s a stained glass design called “Pentecost Paraklesis.” If you would like to view a larger version of the image, please click on the following link: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7195/6978306792_200832531b_b.jpg

Earth Day Devotion: Sacred Seeds - Genesis 1:11

Genesis 1:11   Then God said, "Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds." And it was so. 

For the first time in years, I’ve planted some seeds in a box and am hoping to grow perennial flowers that I enjoy. The plants are nasturtiums and lupines. They are both different kinds of plants. The nasturtium is a Chinese creeping plant with beautiful orange and yellow flowers. Butterflies are attracted to them and when the Fall comes, they’ll probably be covered in a host of caterpillars. The lupines are tall plants which attract honey bees. They are usually white, pink, and lavender blue. If they grow successfully, they will constantly re-seed and eventually cover a large area of my front garden.

I need to look after the seedlings in order to give them a strong chance of growing and developing into mature plants. If I neglect to water them or if a late frost gets to them, they will soon die. Every day I keep an eye on them and so far I am delighted with their progress. Hopefully, I will be able to plant them outside in a month’s time and watch them bloom all summer long.

I am constantly amazed at Creation. God’s imagination, artistry, and skill are all around me and I feel both humbled and privileged to enjoy the wonders of His natural works. I like to think that when God first created plants, flowers, and trees on this planet, He not only saw that they were good but that He was absolutely delighted and thrilled with His own work.

Within each of us, God plants seeds of faith that have the potential to bear fruit and multiply through the sharing of our beliefs, the worshipping of Christ, and our participation in His ministry in our own communities and throughout the world. God’s work never stops growing because He is actively involved in the Church’s mission. Our task is to discover where our faith can best be used to bear fruit and where our Christian beliefs can blossom among the people we love, work with, and encounter.

Question for Personal reflection

Where does my faith in Christ produce the most fruit for the future?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, thank You for creating the Church in the world and for allowing us to be participants in Your mission. Help us to rely upon You to guide our thoughts, ways, and deeds so that we may produce fruitful works that glorify You and attract other people to Your Kingdom. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor at Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. if you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org. John is always delighted to read your comments and to receive feedback.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest drawings called “Smoky Mountain Sunset.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click the following link: http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5330/6926536366_3bd793f073_b.jpg

John’s drawings can also be found on his art website which you can view at www.stushieart.com.

Christian Devotions: Our Redeemer - Isaiah 63:16

Isaiah 63:16     However, You are our Father, even though Abraham does not recognize us or Israel know us; You are our Father, O Lord, and from ancient times Your Name is known as ‘Our Redeemer.’

Sadly, every now and then, some celebrity or famous person loses their life in a tragic or scandalous way. We are all shocked and saddened by this kind of event, especially if the person has died much younger than anticipated. Within days, we are all saturated with breaking news, special documentaries, and television biographies that sometimes unfairly criticize or sully the reputation of the dead person. Media frenzy ensues and the story is big until some other star passes away tragically. Then a new circus begins and the same old cycle of speculation and cynicism continues.

I used to wonder if that kind of thing happened beyond death. Is a person’s whole life totally revealed to everyone in eternity, with all of the shameful secrets and sinful events completely exposed? Are our reputations eternally sullied and our souls punished by God for our faithless and fruitless ways in life? As a teenager, those things used to worry me immensely; as a Christian, I now understand the beauty of God’s grace.

For thousands of years, the One, True, and Living God has been known as ‘Our Redeemer.’ He doesn’t have to, but He wants to redeem us from our sins and rescue us from the sickness of our secrets. In Isaiah’s time, the people thought that because they were so far away from Jerusalem, God didn’t have the geographical power to rescue and deliver them. Through the presence of the Holy Spirit, Isaiah realized that this wasn’t true. God wasn’t limited by time or space; geography or history could not bind or restrict His redeeming power. God didn’t have to, but God was willing to deliver His people yet again.

As Christians, we now know God’s great redeeming love through the life, death, and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ. We are delivered from death and saved from our sins through the Cross at Calvary. Whatever we have sinfully done in the past, Christ has completely forgiven for all Time. Whatever shameful secrets have sullied us, Jesus has totally absolved. From of old, we have known His Name: Our Redeemer.

Question for personal reflection

How has Jesus been revealed to me as the Redeemer of my life?

Prayer:                        Lord Jesus, we cannot thank You enough for restoring us to God’s favor by redeeming us with Your blood. We will always be eternally thankful for Your sacrifice on the Cross that has reconnected our souls with God for all Time. Help us to cheerfully and joyfully live each day as thankful redeemed people. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is John’s latest Spring drawing called “Dogwood Cardinal.” If you would like to view a larger version of the picture, please click on the following link: http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6227/6998552941_3a75f0a757_b.jpg

Free devotions: Church Restoration - Isaiah 58:12

Isaiah 58:12    Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings. 

The Church as we once knew it is broken and just like Humpty Dumpty in the old children’s nursery rhyme, I’m not sure that it can ever be put back together again.

The dilemma that we currently face is this: do we stand around and weep at all of the broken pieces, or do we pick up what is left and build something better? Do we repair what is wrecked or do we create something new with the broken material?

One of my favorite television programs is called “American Restoration.” It’s all about a small business in Las Vegas where the owner and his family restore old machines, gas pumps, and vintage toys into something new. They start with a worn out piece of junk that nobody would want but, by the end of the program, it’s a completely restored item, in perfect working order and newly painted. Sometimes the restorers cannot mend a machine or the parts are so badly worn that they need to be replaced. When that happens, the boss and his workers re-invent the inner workings of the item and build it into something new, something that works, and something that is attractive.

I think that is what the task of God’s church currently is: to become restored and renewed. We cannot ever be what we once were, but with God’s guidance and the presence of the Holy Spirit in our hearts and churches, we can become something beautiful for Christ. Therefore, the challenge we face this: are we going to wait, weep, and wail over what is broken and end up with nothing, or are we ready to re-gather the pieces, restore our hopes, and rebuild what we have into something new?

Prayer:                        Lord Jesus, as Christians we are Followers of Your Way, Seekers of Your Truth, and Lovers of Your Life. Your Church is broken and we have lost something that can never be re-found. We are afraid of the future and fear the unknown; therefore we seek Your Living Presence among us so that we can faithfully and successfully rebuild, restore, and renew our churches for Your continuing ministry and mission in our communities and across the world. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is currently the pastor of Erin Presbyterian church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment on today’s passage, please send him an email to pastor@erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest digital glass designs. It’s called “Celtic Dawn.” In the larger version, you can almost touch the contours of the borders on the digital window. You can view the larger version here: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7064/6957944417_d242cd6902_b.jpg